Xn July 2014 by The Wokingham Paper

! E E

Henley, Reading & Wokingham districts

july/ AUGUST 2014 ISSN 2049-4971

EXCELLENT NEWS

100

remembering the first world war

War poet Wilfred Owen’s Dunsden connection PLUS: Win a meal for two at Côte | Summer holiday fun

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MS sufferer Yvonne qualifies as a stonemason

eading Memorial Manager Yvonne Parks felt like her life was over when she was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. But now six years later Yvonne, who works at funeral directors A.B. Walker & Son, has qualified as a stonemason. She also made history by becoming the first woman to qualify under BRAMM as a qualified stonemason. BRAMM is The British Register of Accredited Memorial Masons. “I love my job,” said 48- year-old Yvonne. “I’m out in all weathers in waterproofs and steel capped boots. When I go home some nights I’m covered in mud, I’ve got it on my face, I’ve got it everywhere. I love being out in the fresh air and it was a new challenge for me. “When I’m sitting I can feel the pain from my MS, whereas when I’m busy I don’t think about it.” Yvonne joined A.B. Walker & Son in 2012 after a career in sales. She had been impressed by the service when the company arranged funerals for her family. “It was important to me that I was coming to work for a family firm with high standards,” she said. “If I do a job I want to do it well.” Her role involves running the memorial department. But she also does everything from removing headstones and also fixing them in place to digging,

mixing concrete, sandblasting and painting. The company are memorial specialists. Managing Director Julian Walker said: “Yvonne really is an inspiration. She has a positive outlook on life and provides a top class service for our clients.” Yvonne first noticed that something was wrong in 2007 when she fell over while out shopping. Tests revealed she had Multiple Sclerosis, and she was told the news on Christmas Eve 2007. The doctor told her she may never get any worse or she could be in a wheelchair in five years time. “I burst into tears,” she recalls. “I told my partner he could leave if he wanted to. I thought I was going to be disabled. I was frightened, I was angry. I thought: ‘This it is, I’m finished.’” Yvonne now has a constant pain in her right leg and she suffers from occasional fatigue. She has changed her diet to cope and also has oxygen therapy in an oxygen chamber twice a week (at the Berkshire MS Therapy Centre). “I have learnt to live with the pain,” she said. “I just try to ignore it. I never sit down until 10 minutes before I go to bed because I don’t want to. There may be a time when I can’t get up so I try to push myself to the limit. “I always tell people not to think about the things they can’t do but focus on the things they Yvonne Parks relishes her active role with A.B. Walker & Son. She helps maintain and look can.” after headstones and graves, despite suffering from Multiple Sclerosis

This month

Matchday 4

This is your magazine Contact us with your stories, email editor@xnmedia.co.uk write to Xn Media, Crown House, 231 King’s Road, Reading RG1 4LS. We look forward to hearing from you!

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Richard McCoull 0118 328 3108 richard@xnmedia.co.uk Xn is published by Xn Media. ISSN 2049-4971 c/o Crown House, 231 King’s Road, Reading RG1 4LS www.xnmedia.co.uk Twitter: @xnmedia Editor & publisher Phil Creighton editor@xnmedia.co.uk

Remembering 18

Restore 11

Journalist Vivienne Johnson vivienne@xnmedia.co.uk Photography Lynda Bowyer lynda@xnmedia.co.uk Website Peter Bowyer peter@xnmedia.co.uk Distribution Judith Creighton judith@xnmedia.co.uk Contributors Michael Penny, Steve Prince, James Hern, Martin Ceaser, Chris Carter, Adam Wingrove, David Adkins, Judith Boulton, Margaret Palmer, Mireille Haviland Thanks to Quench, Alan Magness, Louise Cole, Mary Brockington, Andrew Taylor, Steve Curtis, Lynne Colman, David Adkins, Gaye Rees, Heather Johnson, Eddie Winship Cover picture Lynda Bowyer Printed by Polestar Xn is an independent publication that aims to reflect community and Church life without bias. The views expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the publishers. Every care is taken to ensure that the contents of the magazine are accurate but the publishers cannot accept responsibility for errors. While reasonable care is taken when accepting advertisements, the publishers cannot accept any responsibility for any resulting unsatisfactory transactions. They will, however, investigate any written complaints. © Xn Media Ltd, 2014

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Musical treat 34 Knit wit 31 Trekker 17 Contents From the editor 4 The Main Event

AVE you been enjoying the summer so far? There’s been loads to do and it’s been a really exciting few weeks. So much has been happening that it’s hard to keep track of it all! There have been anniversaries, parties, concerts, exhibitions, displays and … well, just have a flick through these packed pages. Phil Creighton And then, when you’ve done that, follow the reminders through the magazine to visit us online at xnmedia.co.uk. Bookmark our site and visit us daily as we’re regularly updating with the very latest excellent news. We’re looking forward to our summer holidays so this issue covers two months, July and August. We’re back for the first Sunday in September. Enjoy your summer.

6 Excellent news 16 Interview Sharing the message of peace 17 Interview Walking through Nepal 18 First World War in focus 20 Sport 20 Summer holiday clubs 22 Classified 24 Family circle 25 Recruitment 26 What’s on Two pages of community events 28 Puzzles 29 Free time Our new leisure guide

Get in touch! email stories to editor@xnmedia.co.uk Deadline for Sept issue Friday, Aug 22

the main event

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WORDS & PICTURES: LYNDA BOWYER

NGLAND may have limped out of the World Cup, but a more friendly – and thrilling – footballing encounter was played out in Reading recently. The Big Match returned to the Madejski Stadium on Saturday, May 31, and saw two celebrity teams battle it out for charity funds. More than 1,300 people filed into the Madejski Stadium to watch The Big Match, a charity event arranged by Neil Humphries and his team of family and friends. In 2011, Neil’s father was diagnosed with a brain tumour and given a six-month prognosis. He passed away in early 2012, but from this sadness Neil realised that more needed to be done to raise awareness of the disease. With the help of close family, friends and contacts within the football community here in Reading, The Big Match was born. The Action for Children team, managed by Argentina and Tottenham Hotspur legend and hero Osvaldo (Ossie) Ardiles, won with an emphatic 5-3 victory over The Brain Tumour Charity team, which was managed by former Reading FC star turned BBC Berkshire football pundit Mick Gooding. The event kicked off with a Big Match Kidz contest, for children aged between five and 15. World-renowned football freestyler Colin Nell made several guest appearances and performed tricks, stunts and skills. Much to the children’s delight, they were also able to do a penalty shoot out with former Arsenal and England goalkeeper David Seaman MBE. David said: “It’s great to get out here and support this event. There’s some fantastic guys playing today and it’s good to be here to support the kids too. “It’s good to see the fans out here supporting the event.” Neil Humphries said: “I checked the figures last night and we’d already [raised] £50,000 so today I reckon we’ve smashed it. The result today doesn’t matter [his team lost], and after a week of rain the sun came out for my Dad. Brilliant!” v To keep in touch with The Big Match log on to www. thebigmatch.co.uk, or on Twitter at @TheBigMatchCo v For a longer version of this article visit our website, using this quick link: goo.gl/qgFT51

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Stars score with The Big Match

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v Guides take on Loan Sharks

v Sitta’s honour A woman from Bracknell has been awarded a British Empire Medal (BEM) in the Queen’s Birthday honours list. Sitta Joseph, 64, has the medal for her services to prisoners and the community in Berkshire. Sitta has been volunteering at HMP Huntercombe and HMP Bullingdon as well as helping with the Shape Project, an organisation that aids vulnerable socially excluded young women of all cultures and backgrounds who have experienced domestic violence, homelessness and substance abuse to achieve their potential through education. As if this volunteering wasn’t enough, she has also been helping people for at least 30 years. Her citation adds: “Her voluntary work over the past 30 years also includes fundraising rallies and supplying and cooking free food for those less fortunate as an outreach service based in Reading.”

Pictures: Lynda Bowyer

TILEHURST – THE 5th Tilehurst Guides could net a national award after warning young people about the dangers of loan sharks. The Guides designed a badge and a booklet about savings, banking and places where money can be borrowed safely. It has gone on to be used nationally to educate young people and their families about effective budgeting and avoiding money lenders. The England Illegal Money Lending Team selected the Guides, which meet at St Michael’s Church in Tilehurst, to be Third Sector Category Joint Winners in the Stop Loan Sharks Awards. The troop is now in with a chance of winning the national award. The winner is chosen by the public through an online vote, and will receive £1,000 to fund further awareness raising. The national winner will be announced later this month.

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Arts centre gets green light BY PHIL CREIGHTON PUPILS will be making a drama out of their forthcoming Christmas present – but don’t worry, you’ll be applauding them. Luckley House School in Wokingham has been granted planning permission for a new state of the art Performing Arts Centre, due to commence building this September. It should be completed by Christmas 2015. The Centre will house a 179-seat auditorium, a dance and drama studio, a workshop, classrooms and offices. Jane Tudor, Headmistress of the all-girls’ senior school said: “We cherish the performing arts, with their invaluable contribution to developing communication skills,

An artist’s impression of the new arts centre at Luckley House School creativity and self-confidence. “The provision of a fullyequipped theatre, drama teaching facilities and a dance studio will enable these to flourish. “Such a significant investment in the on-going expansion and improvement of our facilities underlines the Governors’

commitment to our 15-year School Master Plan and further reinforces our position as a provider of worldclass education.” v The school has open mornings on Saturday, October 18 and Tuesday, November 18. For more details, email Registrar@luckleyhouseschool.org or call 0118 978 4175.

Sean rides in from Swansea to Sindlesham A WELSH Biker rode all the way from Swansea to Sindlesham to give a talk last month. Sean Stillman revved up the village Baptist Church on Monday, June 23. David Adkins said: “It was a great evening, Sean talked about his church in Swansea and the fantastic work they do opening up their church to all, feeding and supporting the local community and always having an open door.” The church also held a photography contest, with the top prize being a Canon camera. Entries were the theme of Noah’s

Ark and submitted via its website. There are categories for primary and secondary school age children and adults. Entries will go on display at the church on July 17-19. v For more details, log on to www. sindleshambaptistchurch.com.

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Learners have inspiring year BY VIVIENNE JOHNSON AN AWARD ceremony celebrated the achievements of ordinary people last month. Wokingham Borough Mayor Cllr UllaKarin Clark gave out awards at the Community Learner Awards at Earley Crescent Resource Centre on June 20. “As the mayor of Wokingham Borough I am extremely proud to have been here today to acknowledge their achievements,” she said. “I think it’s inspiring how much the people here have achieved in a year. They have been able to overcome many difficulties in order to achieve what we have seen today.” Students come in many shapes and sizes and have different needs. Paul Lyden, a volunteer tutor for the interview skills workshops, explained: “Some

Wokingham Borough Mayor Cllr UllaKarin Clark with some of the winners of the Community Learner Awards Picture: Lynda Bowyer are young people with degrees who can’t even get a job at the local supermarket. “Some are older people who have been made redundant or haven’t seen work for many years. “Then the long-term unemployed who feel they have no chance of getting a job. We also have people with learning disabilities.”

Richard Alexander, Head of Libraries and Community Learning for Wokingham Borough Council, said: “The aim is to encourage adults to take part in learning as well as celebrating outstanding achievements of adults in adult learning courses.” v For more on the support and training from Wokingham Borough Council offers call 0118 978 8069.

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v Queen’s honour for local charities Local groups were recipients of the prestigious Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service last month. This unique honour was created over a decade ago by the Queen to mark her Golden Jubilee. It recognises the outstanding contributions made to local communities by groups of volunteers. The local recipients are: ABC to Read of Oxford Road, Reading, in recognition of its outstanding work with children who are struggling with reading. Berkshire County Blind Society, also based in Reading, which supports visually impaired people. Crowthorne Old Age to Teen Society which provides companionship, meals and activities for older people and respite for their carers. Kerith Community Church from Bracknell, which seeks to serve and transform the local community. Mortimer Village Partnership which aims to build a stronger community and enrich village life.

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v Hoedown marks centre’s birthday WOKINGHAM – A community centre celebrated its 10th anniversary with a hoedown last month. The Cornerstone, in Wokingham, was launched by members of All Saints Church to make a positive contribution to the town. The Revd Canon David Hodgson, Rector of All Saints, said: “The vision we had for The Cornerstone continues to be fulfilled. Its purpose is to enrich the lives of the people of Wokingham and to deepen our spirit of community.” The centre is widely used by residents for a range of activities and the anniversary was marked on Saturday, June 28 with a barn dance. Writing in his parish magazine, David added: “The Cornerstone helped us as a church to unlearn old habits of thought which no longer serve us well in the 21st Century. It’s really important to … revisit and refresh the spirit in which we first founded it.” v The centre’s website is thecornerstonewokingham.org.uk

v Lunch raises funds SANDHURST – Members of St Michael’s and All Angels Church raised £525 by hosting a lunch for Christian Aid.

Silver service from The Link BY MARGARET PALMER A POPULAR community café celebrated 25 years in style last month. The Link Coffee Shop in Tilehurst marked its silver anniversary with tea and cake. On Saturday, June 21, a service of celebration and thanks for all those involved with The Link Coffee shop in Tilehurst was held at Tilehurst Methodist Church. The service was led by Andy Moffoot, the School Road church’s minister. Andy thanked the many people who have given their time and talents to The Link over the last quarter of a century and gave thanks for 25 years of Christian witness and service to the local community. At the tea party after the service, the cake was cut by some of the volunteers who have been helping since it opened. The coffee shop was set up 25 years ago and is managed by representatives from seven churches across Tilehurst. More than 120 volunteers give their time to run the café, which is open six days a week. As well as those who work in the café and the kitchen there is an

An anniversary cake for The Link Coffee Shop was cut by some of the volunteers who have been helping since it opened 25 years ago unseen band of people who bake delicious cakes, make soup, do the laundry, go shopping and keep the building in good working order. The main purpose of The Link is to make caring Christian contact with the people of the local community, through the provision of food and drink. Everyone is welcome and volunteers create a pleasant and friendly atmosphere and a listening ear if needed. The prices are kept low to ensure that all can come and there is always a warm welcome for

everyone. Any surplus is given to charity. Saturdays are when young people work in the café and during the week students from local schools and colleges come for work experience. On the first and third Saturday of the month Christian Listening takes place from 2.30pm-4pm. v The Link is open weekdays from 10am to 4pm and from 10am to 2pm on Saturdays. It is situated at 28 School Road, Tilehurst RG31 5AN. v For more on The Link, log on to www.thelinktilehurst.org

All Friends together for a year!

Still the Hunger We provide a non-residential programme, and support groups and individual sessions for those needing less intensive support 07733 300 705 | info@stillthehunger.co.uk www.stillthehunger.co.uk

A SERVICE that helps befriend local and isolated people in the Burghfield area celebrated its first birthday last month. More than 40 local dignitaries, councillors, Staff Befrienders and Supporters packed out the gathering at the Community Café B in Burghfield Methodist Centre last month to celebrate a year of the TiM Friends initiative. TiM Friends is a befriending service for people in Burghfield, Mortimer and the surrounding areas which gives anyone who feels alone the chance to have personal contact with someone on a regular basis. This can be either face to face or through telephone support. The service also provides opportunities to meet others including coffee mornings, lunch clubs, outings and Pie & Pint sessions just for men. West Berkshire Council Chairman Jeff Beck was the guest speaker.

He said: “The isolation that follows the loss of a loved one can be dramatic, the support and friendship from close friends and an organisation such as TiM Friends has proven to be a lifeline towards restoration of everyday living time and again. The work done here is fantastic.” TiM Friends coordinators Bev French and Siân Laflin also spoke, updating the attendees on the service’s delivery to date and gave special thanks to SMRIN (Stratfield Mortimer Relief in Need), Springboard Reading, Burghfield Parish Council and Burghfield Residents Association along with thanking a number of other private sponsors who “make it all possible”. v TiM’s School Pastors scheme, run at the Willink School, has celebrated its first birthday too. The story is on our website, quicklink: goo.gl/prfOfP

there’s More to read at xnmedia.co.uk find out why a leopard is on the loose in the streets of wokingham!

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O SA W LE O N !

Amazing Aitken

BETTER BEDS AT BETTER PRICES Former Government minister Jonathan Aitken visited Wycliffe Baptist Church in Reading on Thursday, June 26. He was jailed for his role in the cash for questions scandal and became a Christian in prison. During his visit to Reading, he shared his story and revealed more about what he’s doing today. PICTURE: RICHARD McKENZIE/@DIGITALMcK

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Boys on their way to South Africa BY PHIL CREIGHTON A GROUP of fundraising teenagers are packing their bags after smashing their fundraising target. Members of the 2nd Reading Boys’ Brigade (BB) needed to raise £18,000 to enable them to spend their summer holidays building a house for a homeless family in South Africa. But their fundraising efforts mean they’ve brought in £21,000 – so far. And with a silent auction running to win a VIP Race Day at Brands Hatch, from Houseman Racing, that figure will be even higher. The lads will fly out on Friday, July 11, and spend 11 days in Johannesburg. Working with Urban Saints Rebuild programme, volunteers are expected to build a whole house. It’s not all work – the teenagers will enjoy a visit to an animal sanctuary, seeing lions and rhinos

first hand. They will also visit an orphanage. The BB company’s spokesperson, Jeff Lewis, said: “We had a daunting target of £18,000 that we needed to raise – to pay for our flights, accommodation and also all the materials for the house. A combination of God’s goodness, the boys’ hard work, and your amazing support – has produced a fantastic total of £21,000.” The fundraising work continues, as Jeff explained: “The excess money will help us in Boys’ Brigade prepare the next group of lads for the next trip. An older group are going to Romania later in the summer to run a mission week.” The 2nd Reading company meets at Wycliffe Baptist Church in Kings’ Road, Reading and the boys will report back on their trip in September’s Xn. v For more on the company, visit 2ndreading.weebly.com v More BB news on page 10

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Bishop’s visit rings a bell

v Vive la France! READING – A taste of France is coming to Forbury Gardens later this month. The Bastille Day Festival promises lots of free activities with a Gallic theme, as well as a French Market. It takes place in the town centre on Saturday, July 12 and Sunday, July 13 from 10.30am each day. v www.bastilledayreading.co.uk

by JUDITH BOULTON The Bishop of Reading began birthday celebrations at a Wokingham Without church last month. The Rt Revd Andrew Proud visited St Sebastian’s Church on Pentecost Sunday to ring the bell in its new belltower, marking the start of a special 150th anniversary service. Pentecost is traditionally celebrated as the birthday of the church and in 2014 the festival came 150 years after St Sebastian’s foundation stone was laid on May 31, 1864. Bishop Andrew said: “Your history is of a parish, founded on Jesus, deliberately on and at the edge, formed for mission, to celebrate passion and courage.” St Sebastian’s is the Parish Church of Wokingham Without, which was once a corner of Windsor Great Forest, where people known as Broomdashers lived and worked, making brooms in the local woodland. Mrs and Major Sawyer established a mission here and called it St Sebastian’s, which became the church as it is known today. Now serving a parish of around 9,000 people, St Sebastian’s is a vibrant community of faith, with members spanning the generations. On the site there is a Primary School, Parish Centre and Pre-School. A service for the whole community, celebrating the consecration of the church in December 1864, will be held on Sunday December 7, 2014. Bishop Andrew rings the bell Picture: Roger Holdsworth

v 60s plus club WHITLEY – A 60s Plus Club meets every Tuesday at Christ The King parish hall, Northumberland Avenue. Sessions run from 1pm to 3.30pm. All are welcome. v www.ctkreading.org.uk

v Make a date for the last night TWYFORD – A live screening of The Last Night of the Proms, will take place at St Mary’s Church, Twyford on Saturday, September 13, starting at 7.15pm. The High Voltage Singers will perform live, before a live TV link-up to the Royal Albert Hall follows for the second half of the evening.

Crowthorne Baptist Church

100 YEARS

 

FAMILY FUN DAY 2pm-5pm TH

SATURDAY 6 SEPTEMBER 2014

Morgan Recreation Ground, Crowthorne  Children’s Activities including climbing wall, crafts activities, pony rides, bouncy castle and more  Craft/Artisan Stalls (to book a pitch - £20 - contact: NewHeart@CrowthorneBaptist.org.uk)

 Hot Dogs, Burgers and Cream Teas  Entertainment including Magician and Musical Entertainment  Stay for the afternoon and bring a picnic!

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Followed by an evening Celebration Service 7pm-8:30pm, on the Morgan Recreation Ground.

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Cameroon comes to Woodley BY CHRIS CARTER Visitors to St John Bosco RC Church in Woodley could have been forgiven for thinking they had suddenly been transported to West Africa. The church had been chosen by the Portsmouth Diocese to stage the 40th anniversary celebrations of its links with the Archdiocese of Bamenda in North West Cameroon. It was a particular honour for its parish priest, Fr Bonaventure Ndong, who hails from the region. On the evening of Sunday, June 22, the regular congregation were treated to a Mass with a difference – its numbers swollen by Cameroonians bedecked in multi-coloured robes, and swaying rhythmically to hymns from a specially convened choir, conducted by Fr Bonaventure. The 31-strong Bamenda delegation, headed by Archbishop Cornelius Fontem Esua, had spent a week in the UK, visiting parishes

and schools across the diocese. In his address, the Archbishop spoke about the power of love and unity, thanking the congregation for taking his priests to their heart, and extending invitations to visit him in Bamenda. “You will never want to come home,” he said, before joining the other guests for a party in the church garden. In 1974, the two dioceses of Bamenda and Portsmouth were twinned. Since then, Bamenda has hosted visits from Bishops Crispian Hollis, Derek Worlock and Philip Egan. Portsmouth has sent 10 priests on assignment, and welcomed several Cameroonian priests to study and work in the UK. More than £800,000 has been spent by Portsmouth on development projects in Bamenda built around faith, health, education and social welfare. Regular donations ensure that the link is maintained, and that it continues to strengthen daily.

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From Doomsday to eternity for St Mary’s

The Revd Becky Bevan and Ian Cave are helping organise a restoration and building project for historic St Mary’s in Aldermaston Picture: Phil Creighton BY PHIL CREIGHTON A BERKSHIRE church that appears in the Doomsday Book is bringing the community together as it prepares to write a new chapter. St Mary The Virgin in Aldermaston dates back to Norman times and the building boasts many historically important features including wall paintings, stained glass windows and even a knight’s helmet. However, it has no modern facilities or space to meet the demands of a growing church. It also suffers from damp and heating issues. Members of the church’s PCC have produced plans that are uniting the West Berkshire village, seeing people come together to raise vital cash to fund a refurbishment and additional building. The first phase of the project will carry out a sensitive restoration of the Grade I listed church, protecting the medieval interior for generations to come. The second part of the plan is to erect a meeting room in the grounds behind the church, providing toilets, a kitchen area and space for a Sunday School. Work will enhance disabled access. The church’s rector, the Revd Becky Bevan, explained: “If a church is to flourish in a small population, it has to include the whole community. It’s not just for churchgoers, it’s for all parishioners, and for

many generations to come. “A parish church is the base of the community. People see it as their church.” Initial plans have been “delicately and carefully” drawn up with the needs of the village in mind, Becky added. “We want to be guardians of that history,” she said, “It’s not something you embark upon lightly.” She added that the plans for the meeting rooms are important. “If it [the church] becomes a museum, it’ll die.” Ian Cave, who is chairing the project committee, said that the village’s response has been great. “They’ve been most enthusiastic,” he said. “People see the need to protect the church’s future. “The [meeting rooms] will be at the back of the church at the same level, and will be connected to the church by a covered courtyard. We are also planning a pathway around the side of the church for ease of access.” St Mary’s is also home to the Aldermaston Nativity Play, which has been performed for 58 years and counting. The building plans means that the portaloo that the church had to hire for the visitors will be a thing of the past. v A series of fundraising events is being planned, and the Project has set up a grant application on the local www.findmeagrant.org/wberks website to raise funds for the initial planning and expert advice. v St Mary’s website: www.awb.org.uk.

log on and see our exclusive video report from St Mary’s Aldermaston

Take care! Make the most of life with Philip Keohane

Is Mum starting to get Dementia?

ementia is an umbrella term for the variety of conditions that can cause deterioration of brain function. Just stop for a second and consider the vast array of functions that our CPU (the brain) controls; movement, reflexes, taste and smell, balance, speech, understanding, communication, concentration, co-ordination, emotions and many more besides. It becomes easier to understand how dementia can have such a vastly different impact on the lives of the people it affects. However, one thing that many forms of dementia share in common is the high risk of behavioural disorders, changes in personality and people behaving out of character. A worry that some of us have experienced in the past: One that many will encounter in the years ahead is, how do I recognise the signs that maybe my loved one is beginning to have to live with some form of early dementia? Here are a few things to look for: • Are the memory lapses that my loved one is now encountering starting to disrupt their daily life? • Are they beginning to struggle with planning and solving problems? • Are they experiencing difficulty in completing familiar day to day tasks around the home? • Are they starting to show signs of confusion, particularly with regard to time and place? • Are they having trouble retracing steps when they attempt to find something that has been mislaid? • Is your loved one starting to demonstrate fluctuations in mood and personality? • Is their ability to make sound judgements decreasing? • Does the prospect of social interaction arouse anxiety, is your loved one becoming increasingly withdrawn? There are other warning signs to be aware of. However, if you are starting to recognise these changes in your loved one, a call to your GP is a good starting point. They will carry out an initial assessment and arrange for a diagnosis to be made. Early intervention is so important. It can ensure that there is an opportunity to take advantage of prescribed medicines and a range of therapies at an early stage. These aids will have a major positive influence in helping your loved one to continue to have a good quality of life as they live with dementia.

Philip Keohane is owner & director of Home Instead Senior Care in Reading

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v All the holiday, none of the travel BURGHFIELD – Fun and laughter on a summer holiday is promised, all without leaving the village. Aimed at older people, the Holiday at Home scheme offers a range of activities to suit all tastes. It will take place at St Mary’s Church. It launches on Monday, August 18, with a musical afternoon. A visit to Basingstoke’s Bygones museum follows on Wednesday, August 20 and a day out at REME museum in Arborfield on Friday, August 22. A crafts afternoon and a games afternoon completes the menu. Entry to activities is free and places are limited. v For details or to book, call the church on 0118 983 4433.

v Summer café WOODLEY – A drop-in Summertime Café will run weekly on Thursdays during the summer holidays. St James Church Centre in Kingfisher Drive will host the friendly meeting place, offering good food, including children’s lunch choices from July 24 to September 4. It will open from 11am to 1.30pm.

Forget Waterloo, here’s Woodley BY PHIL CREIGHTON Back in 1974, Abba won the Eurovision Song Contest with Waterloo – but back in Woodley something else was capturing the imagination. The 1st Woodley Boys’ Brigade (BB) recently celebrated its ruby anniversary with a look back at what happened 40 years ago. The special guest at the anniversary display, held at Christ Church in Crockhamwell Road, Woodley, was the Reading Battalion president Tony Champion. Bob Hansford, the 1st Woodley Captain, said: “The Company also ran a stall at Woodley Carnival, combining the themes of World Cup and 40 years of service.” Back in 1974, the company grew quickly, attracting around 50 boys on a regular basis, meeting up for games, working for badges and taking part in activities such as camping, bands and sporting contests. It met in the old United Reformed Chapel in Loddon Bridge Road.

Boys and staff from the 1st Woodley Boys’ Brigade celebrate their 40th birthday The Company also helps lads When the chapel combined work on their Duke of Edinburgh with the Methodist church, the BB awards and plays an active moved to its current location and part in the community, such as began accepting younger lads (5+) volunteering at charity shops. into its Anchor Boys section. They will also be heading for Bob added: “Earlier years were the big outdoors as Bob explained: marked by colourful floats in “Camps remain ever popular and Woodley Carnival (as Woodley the 1st Woodley company will Vikings and Woodley Pirates); a be camping this summer near flute, drum and trumpet band; Wareham in Dorset. It’s close to sporting successes in the Southern Bovington Tank Museum, and the District football 6-a-sides and a beaches of Purbeck.” keenly supported annual camp. v The 1st Woodley Boys’ Brigade “At the 125th anniversary in meets on Wednesdays and is open 2008, members of the Company for ages five to 18. For details, visit “cycled” 125 miles in the Woodley 1woodley.boys-brigade.org.uk. precinct on exercise bikes.”

Make sense of separation In May, I facilitated a Divorce Recovery Workshop held at Lee Abbey in Devon. I became involved with this charity after my own divorce, where I struggled to come to terms with various things. The feelings of bewilderment, loss, anger, bitterness, betrayal … to name but a few. Now I am living life to the full after never imagining that this would be possible. The workshop is a way for those at any stage of divorce to come together and discuss and hopefully learn some practical steps, so they start to rebuild their lives and begin the process of living life to the full. People attend in the throes of separation and sometimes many years after their divorce. My firsthand experience is everyone that I have met, has moved on and benefitted in some way. I know from being involved with a number of courses both at Lee Abbey and more locally in Earley, there is a real need for Divorce Recovery Workshop in our community. Although, the workshop is built

Separated or Divorced? Are you asking yourself why it all happened? Asking why me? Struggling with the trauma?

on Christian principles, we aim to reach those in need of any faith or indeed no faith. Divorce Recovery Workshop will be running the next local course in the autumn, over the weekends of Fridays and Saturdays of October 3rd, 4th and 10th and 11th. It will be held at Brookside Church in Earley. If you would like more information, please feel free to contact me on 01189 785101 or 07785 223821 or visit the website drw@drw.org.uk. Please pass this information on to anybody that may be interested and really benefit from this support. KaTIE OF READING

Feeling rejected? Feeling that nobody understands? At whatever stage of separation or divorce you find yourself, Divorce Recovery Workshop helps you make some sense of it all and helps you find ways of moving forward. The Workshop uses thought-provoking DVD material with small group discussions over 6 sessions

“You

can go through it or grow through it”

Next dates: Sat 4th & 11th Oct 2014 Local contacts: Kathy: 0118 978 5101 or 07785 223821 John: 07880 702337

www.drw.org.uk

0700 781889

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Walking for Emily

Some of the walkers supporting Emily Cross Picture: Lynda Bowyer BY LYNDA BOWYER A WOMAN who tragically died after falling out of a window in Reading was remembered with a fundraising walk. Emily Cross was a member of Oxford Road-based church LifeSpring and died on April 1. Her friends wanted to do something to ensure Emily’s name would live on and held a sponsored walk at Prospect Park on Saturday, June 14. Organised by one of Emily's friends, Amanda Cox, proceeds from the walk will go to a special bursary fund to be set up in her memory. LifeSpring Church’s pastor Neville Hollands said: "Just a few months on from Emily's untimely death she is, of course, greatly missed. Her smile, her bubbly personality, her love of life, and

of course her love of singing and worship at The Pavilion won't be quickly forgotten. “Amanda and friends organising this sponsored walk to raise funds in her memory is a lovely gesture. “We have decided to use the funds raised to create a bursary fund which will help train more people to help those struggling with addictions.” Event organiser Amanda Cox said: “Emily was fun, happy and always smiling. She was always willing to help others and was a really good friend. We had known each other since primary school. She’d be so proud that people are doing this for her.” The group walked laps of Prospect Park before having a drink to toast Emily's memory. v To find out more about LifeSpring Church visit their website at www. lifespringchurch.org.uk.

Flowers go on showtime It’s showtime! Members of St John The Baptist Church in Waterloo Road, Crowthorne will be getting into the carnival spirit with a flower festival. Running from Saturday, July 12 to Monday, July 14, the festival will feature a range of displays to the theme Strictly Showtime – the same theme as the village’s carnival. There will be regular musical interludes (apart from Monday), an exhibition by the Wokingham Embroiderers’ Guild, a

patchwork and quilting display from Crowthorne Crafts and demonstrations from the North Downs Lacemakers. Refreshments will be available. A Songs of Praise service will be held on Sunday evening at 6.30pm. All money raised will go towards Crowthorne FirstResponders. The display is open from 10am to 6pm on Saturday, from noon to 4pm on Sunday and from 10am to 4pm on the Monday. v For more, visit facebook.com/ crowthorneflowerfestival.

there’s More to read at xnmedia.co.uk A local parents’ group was praised in parliament – find out more online!

SOFT FRUIT

GRAYS FARM

VEGETABLES

PICK YOUR OWN & FARM SHOP

NATIONAL PYO FARM OF THE YEAR WINNER 2013 Fresh – Local – Help to preserve the countryside.  Healthy & easy to pick, in the open air. Enjoy the summer. Children enjoy doing it!  Varieties selected for flavour, not shelf life.  7 varieties of Strawberries & 6 of Raspberries, for choice & a longer season. very convenient for desserts, BBQ’s, fetes, parties etc. all summer long.  Strawberries, Rhubarb, Broad Beans, Spinach and Cabbage currently in season.  Runner Beans - Delicious, convenient, no wastage.  Option to drive round the fields.  Ready picked Strawberries & Raspberries available, please order by phone.  Special rates for schools, churches, & registered charities by prior arrangement (two weeks notice please).  School visits welcome – by arrangement.  Farm trail – about a mile. Allow an hour.  Well stocked farm shop if you prefer us to do the picking.

PYO etiquette – Please taste the fruit to judge the quality & flavour, but do not feast before paying – that is our livelihood! Lost? Tel 0118 978 5386 We hope you enjoy your time at the farm & will be frequent visitors – we plan & hope for bountiful crops – especially strawberries & raspberries

For more details, log on to www.graysfarm.co.uk or call (0118) 978 5386.

In season now: Broad beans, runner beans, beetroot (from mid-July), broccoli/calabrese, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, courgettes, blackcurrants, redcurrants, gooseberries (until mid-July), marrows, onions, parsley, new potatoes, raspberries, rhubarb, spinach and strawberries For more than 30 years, Grays Farm has been helping people cut their food miles to almost zero, while supplying the very best local produce.

Look out for the giant strawberry on Heathlands Road, just opposite Holme Grange craft village. The farm has celebrated after winning the National Pick Your Own Farm of the Year award for 2013 and these awards now recognise their excellence as retailers, farmers and producers. It’s an achievement of which they can all be very proud.” It was given by FARMA (The National Farmers’ Retail and Markets’ Association) – owner Peter is pictured with his award.

The Gray family take good care of their farm and to help show it off, they have devised a special trail that takes about an hour and snakes round the farm. A children’s play area, toilets and picnic area are available too. School groups are very welcome – really helping children to understand more about the food on their plate.

GRAYS FARM

is open from 9am to 6pm from Monday to Saturday. The range available depends on what’s in season. Members of Crowthorne Baptist Church, the family are also keen supporters of Book Aid and Tools With A Mission (TWAM), acting as a collecting depot for both. The Gray’s support for TWAM includes a repair and training works HEATHLANDS ROAD, WOKINGHAM RG40 3AN

Tel. 0118 978 5386

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Breakfast expert honoured While the men enjoyed a breakfast, women from Carey Baptist Church in central Reading gathered to hear Jacky Cooper speak. Organised by Caroline Davis (pictured), the event attracted more than 50 women. Full story on our website PICTURE: LYNDA BOWYER

BY CHRIS CARTER

v Bishop gets to work THE BISHOP of Reading, the Rt Revd Andrew Proud, was the guest speaker at a meeting of Reading@ Work last month. He shared insights into the world of work based on his experiences when he worked in Ethiopia. The meeting took place in a packed upper room of Bill’s Restaurant in Chain Street, Reading. Bishop Andrew is pictured above with organiser Dave Law. Look out for our exclusive video on our website, xnmedia.co.uk.

In a major break with tradition, there were two Guests of Honour – and not one – at the latest Reading Churches Men’s Group breakfast meeting. The only twist was that one of them wasn’t aware he was until the end of the proceedings. For its 20th anniversary event, held at Reading’s Greyfriars Church on Saturday, June 14, a keynote address by Celia Bowring of Christian Action and Research was followed by a surprise presentation to John Ledger, the man who established the RCMG back in 1994 and has been running it so successfully ever since. The “men-only” rule was relaxed for this special occasion – meaning that wives and partners were able to peep into the hallowed realm, swelling numbers and touring an exhibition of RCMG mementos from the last 20 years. It was in this auspicious setting that Celia Bowring – as the 67th guest speaker – took to the floor to discuss the topic of Christianity

in a Collapsing Culture. As John Ledger concluded his customary thanks, he was startled to see fellow breakfast planning group member John Broady stride purposefully to the front and unfold a piece of paper. As other colleagues hovered in the wings, clutching an engraved trophy, card and bottle of Champagne, John Broady delivered a fulsome tribute for the RCMG founder. He said: “John [Ledger], while already busy on multiple fronts

has never faltered in his efforts. As well as carefully selecting and booking speakers, he is the RCMG administrator, publicist bookkeeper and catering manager!” The tributes, John Broady emphasised, were “in recognition of John Ledger’s unswerving commitment to seeing Christian men being strengthened in their faith – and his abiding hope that many un-churched men would … come to know … Christ Jesus.” v A longer version of this report is on Xn’s website, xnmedia.co.uk

Charity prepares to open longer BY JOHN WAKEFIELD

Change the world with one of these

Find out more on page 35

Five months into her new role as manager of CommuniCare, Francesca Yates has secured funding to enable it to open an extra day a week. The Church Urban Fund has given a grant to the East Readingbased charity to assist them with their plans to open for one extra day a week. This extra day’s opening will mean that CommuniCare can assist an additional 800+ clients year. The centre, based behind Wycliffe Baptist Church in King’s Road, offers support and advice to people and a popular form-filling service. Francesca (pictured) has also been busy sharing the work of CommuniCare in the wider communty. “I do feel it is important that more people are aware of CommuniCare and the work we do,” she says.

“I want other agencies, churches, charities and organisations to feel connected to us.” As part of this Francesca has been speaking in churches. “I have loved doing this as I have met some great people and also had insight into the many different services that go on around Reading on a Sunday morning,” she said. “The mission of CommuniCare is to support those people in need and this ties in with much of the community work that the churches do. CommuniCare has also joined the social media world and you can follow them on Twitter or enjoy their updates on their Facebook page. And, thanks to a local web designer donating his time, the website has also been given a makeover. v For more details, email Francesca.yates@ communicare.org.uk or log on to www.communicare.org. uk, www.facebook.com/ CommuniCareRDG and @CommuniCareRDG on Twitter.

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A birthday fun run in the sun BY JOHN WAKEFIELD The summer solstice saw more than 70 people of all ages enjoying a special outdoor fundraising event in Twyford. On a day of glorious sunshine Robertson Languages International hosted the event as part of its celebrations of 25 years of successful business. The fun run, held on Saturday, June 21, raised money for local charity Yeldall Manor, a drug and alcohol rehabilitation centre in Hare Hatch. Clients, colleagues and friends gathered with their families to hear Carlos Mingorance talk about the life-changing work carried out at the Manor before setting off for one of two fun runs through the local countryside. Most people tackled a 5km route round Loddon Nature Reserve, taking in a refreshing paddle through the ford at Land’s End. There was a 2km version around the lake for the younger guests. Everyone won a medal. The first three runners back from the 5km event were Sarah Johnson,

A fun run celebrated the 25th anniversary of a Twyford company – and raised funds for Yeldall Manor in the process Ronan Jamieson and Jason Tracy and the first runner back from the 2km event was 13-year-old Sean Gleeson. Bob Robertson, CEO of Robertson Languages, said: “We are proud to have reached the milestone of 25 years in business. “Although an international company, Robertson Languages has always been based in this area – in Maidenhead, Hare Hatch and then, since 2000, we have been happily settled in Twyford. “So we loved the idea of having

a local event using the beautiful surroundings of the Loddon. “This is a real family occasion with people from a mixture of countries and cultures – a true representation of what we are as a company. “We are looking forward to other activities during this celebration year – and another 25 years of supporting families and businesses around the world.” v More pictures on our website, xnmedia.co.uk v Yeldall open day: page 17

v Theatre date helps The Link WOKINGHAM – A charity play by Wokingham Theatre has raised more than £2,000 for The Link Visiting Scheme. The charity helps isolated elderly people in the Wokingham area and was the benefactor of a special performance of Mary Shelley, at the Cantley Park Theatre on June 11. Marjie Walker, from The Link, said: “Our charity evening went really well. We virtually had a full house and raised just over £2,000. “Hayley, our activities coordinator, was in the play as was one of our volunteers, Gemma.”

v Exploitation grant READING – A charity that works with sex workers is one of two charities to share a £120,000 grant. Mustard Tree and Oxford-based Elmore will be able to employ two trauma advisors to help those in prostitution and sex trafficking. Mustard Tree chief executive Lorraine Briffitt told BBC News she was “delighted to have been awarded money for two vital roles”.

 BAKE WITH THE MASTERS Our Masterclasses have been developed for individuals to experience a truly hands on approach to baking. During these fun & lively sessions our bakers impart their experience and knowledge to you throughout the experience, showcasing skills and techniques we have used for generations. All our Masterclasses are £99 and include   

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Masterclass of your choice Warings family Master Bakers Embroidered Masterclass Apron Recipe cards & Afternoon Tea Plus all the product you make Call 0118 945 6688 www.waringsbakery.co.uk

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v Get help and tips on fostering BRACKNELL – An information evening for those interested in fostering and adoption will take place later this month. The Kerith Centre in Church Road will host the event on Monday, July 14. Starting at 7.30pm, there will be an opportunity to hear from people who have personal experience in fostering and adoption. Bracknell Forest Council’s fostering and adoption team will also be present. v For more details, email pennylander1@gmail.com.

v Make a date for fun afternoon TILEHURST – Little Heath School is venue for a charity fun afternoon on Saturday, July 12. There will be traditional stalls including cakes, plants and books, a live bands, bouncy castles, army assault course, circus acts and a licensed bar. The fun starts at noon and continues until 4pm. v www.littleheath.org.uk

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Peace is the word for Labib BY VIVIENNE JOHNSON A PALESTINIAN leader came to Reading last month to share a message of hope and peace. Labib Madnat, the Director of the Bible Society in the Middle East, oversees both Jewish and Palestinian Bible Societies in Israel/West Bank. The Olive Tree Reconciliation Fund, which aims to promote unity between Palestinians and Israeli Christians, invited him to the UK to speak about peace. As part of his tour, he visited Greyfriars Church in Reading’s town centre on Sunday, June 8. Labib was born and brought up in Jerusalem to a Jordanian Christian family and lived most of his life there before moving to Amman in Jordan a couple of years ago. Labib said he is quite at home in the UK as his wife hails from here. “I live in Amman,” Labib said, “but my wife is English and when we’re over here our home church is Reigate. The vicar there, Phil

WANT TO SPEAK

BETTER ENGLISH?

Labib Madnat outside Greyfriars Church when he came last month Picture: Vivienne Johnson “There are powers that want us Andrew, was the curate here at to believe that it is not possible … Greyfriars.” for us to come together – reality is Labib has witnessed a lot of different. suffering during his life in the “We [Christians] do not have Middle East, but he says he looks a monopoly over goodness. As for good in the situations. Christians we have to have some “What gives me hope is that humility. We recognise any there are stories, so many stories, goodness in us is from God, so we untold by the worldwide media, of recognise the source of it but God hope beyond your wildest dreams,” does not only work His goodness he explained. through Christians.” “So if you see that it could v Hear an interview with Labib happen on that micro, very real at: www.olivetreefund.org/ level, it could happen on a bigger programmes-166-180/ level.

Monday Evenings 7.30 – 9.30 pm, 229 King’s Road (meeting on the Lower Ground Floor at the back of the building) £8 for 4 weeks Come to our friendly and interactive English classes. Our fun lessons will help you communicate better with those around you. Different levels available. Come to our Registration Evening on 15th September (7.30pm). Pay £5 deposit at the registration evening and £3 at the first class.

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Find out more at: www.facebook.com/ thekingsroadenglishclasses or email: thekingsroadenglishclasses@yahoo.co.uk

MPs cross swords with the Brownies TWO MPs crossed swords to help Brownies mark their 100th birthday. Reading West MP Alok Sharma and Wokingham MP John Redwood joined more than 1,900 local Brownies at Rivermead Leisure Centre in Reading on Saturday, June 21, for a fun day. Activities on site included boating, sword fighting and climbing. Celebrations included lighting a

Big Brownie Birthday cake, featuring a candle that had toured all Brownie packs in Berkshire. Alok said: “The Brownies offer girls excellent opportunities to take part in outdoor activities, learn new skills and help their local community – a combination that is as relevant and as important today as it was 100 years ago.”

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Yeldall prepares to open its doors for annual celebration HOG roasts, strawberry teas and a chance to say thank you are all on offer when Yeldall Manor celebrates summer. The drug and alcohol rehabilitation centre, in Hare Hatch, near Wargrave, is opening its doors for its annual open day.

Taking place from 1pm on Saturday, July 12 there will be traditional games, food and facepainting to enjoy. Chissock Woodcraft will also be open throughout the afternoon, showcasing the different services on offer there.

v N’Quire here

From 3pm, a Celebration will be held in a specially-erected marquee to look back on the year gone and look ahead. A strawberry tea follows at 4.30pm. v To help or for more details, call Sue Hedger on 0118 940 1093 or e-mail suehedger@yeldall.org.uk.

SOUTHCOTE – Advice charity N’Quire, based in Southcote, is looking for more volunteers to expand its service. N’Quire offers advice, support, help in form filling and advocacy. It also needs people who can help with fundraising and publicity. v For details, call Jo Cowley on 0118 959 8558.

You can be one of Kelly’s heroes

v School fun TILEHURST – St Catherine’s pre-school and church in Tilehurst are hosting a community fair on Saturday July 12, between 2pm and 4pm. It will be held in St Catherine’s church hall and centre, Wittenham Avenue, Tilehurst. Entry is free and everyone is welcome.

A man from Reading is preparing to visit the Land of Smiles – but he needs your help. LYNDA BOWYER finds out more

aul Kelly is a quiet, unassuming and gentle man. Working at Greyfriars Church in Reading, people often see him out and about, keeping things in order and ensuring the place is running smoothly. With a quiet and conscientious approach Paul is undertaking a charitable fundraising event which is no mean feat – a trek through the Himalayas in aid of the Sue Ryder charity. When asked how he came to be doing this charity event, Paul said: “I was cleaning in the church one day and a saw a leaflet about events with Sue Ryder. I noticed the Nepal trek opportunity and just jumped at it! “I enjoy walking and am relatively fit, and I’ve been doing even more walking across various terrain to improve my fitness levels.” Paul is eager to witness the stunning scenery in the Nepal region and added: “I just want to experience a new adventure and this trek will allow this plus it will enable me to raise money for charity at the same time. “They say the Nepalese culture makes the area known for being the ‘Land of Smiles’. I want to sample that.” Paul is a Christian, following a period at Yeldall Manor. Eager to help others, Paul’s actions speak volumes though he is very much a shy type of Good Samaritan. He said: “I serve because I have been given a second chance at life. I look around and see a lot of people in situations where I once was. ” Discussing the forthcoming trek, Paul said: “I’m really looking

v Strip the willow WOOLHAMPTON – Children at Woolhampton Primary School are busy rehearsing Strip The Willow. The play draws on the research of local historian John Trigg, while villager Rob Crompton has composed the play’s music. It will be performed on Tuesday, July 15 to Thursday July 17. A man from Reading is preparing to trek the Himalayas Picture: Lynda Bowyer forward to seeing the views of the mountains; to watch the sun rise and set over them will be an experience.” A challenging test of endurance and fitness the trek is an 11-day trip of which six days are trekking in the Himalayan Annapurnas, home to some of the highest peaks in the world. Paul has most of his trek requirements in hand, though admits to being in need of a ‘down’ sleeping bag so he can compact it and pack it neatly each morning before heading out further along the trek. Ultimately, Paul needs to raise £3,000 in sponsorship. Paul said: “My goal is to raise the £3,000 by August so I would appreciate everyone’s support. People can give on my donation page at www.virginmoneygiving. com/paulkelly15 or perhaps organise a fundraiser event in their workplace or church. “It’d be fantastic to know that the people of Reading are alongside me in this mountainous task so that they can play their part in this adventure too.” v To help Paul with donations or a sleeping bag, contact him via the Greyfriars’ Church office email at office@greyfriars.org.uk.

T: 0118 942 9889

www.chrysaliscareathome.org

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Get on the Dunsden trail & learn

Wilfred Owen is one of our most famous war poets – and he has a local connection. Ahead of the Great War commemorations, PHIL CREIGHTON explains

NE of the First World War’s most important poets has a local connection and, in this centenary year, his life is being honoured with an exciting new project. Wilfred Owen wrote a range of verse that gave valuable insight into life on the frontline. One of his most famous is Dulce Et Decorum Est, which contains vivid images of a gas attack and the nightmares it brings on. He also wrote Anthem For Doomed Youth, which conjures up the sounds and smells of the battlefield: rifles, shells and bugles. The evocative work has left a mark on society and reflecting on both the poet and his poetry is one of the ways in which many of us will commemorate the 100th anniversary of the outbreak of the First World War. The anniversary of Britain declaring war on Germany falls on Monday, August 4 and a series of special events to commemorate the date will be taking place across the

country (see right). But a more local act of remembrance will shine a spotlight on Wilfred Owen and his local connections. Born in Shropshire in 1987, William Owen came to the parish of Dunsden in 1911 when he was just 18. He arrived to become an assistant to the vicar of All Saints Church, a role he held until February 1913. His time in Dunsden was to prove vital and turbulent, a time of questioning and reassessing, and for loosening the rigid social and religious beliefs of his family, and of his world. His experience in Dunsden set him against a religious vocation and he left determined to follow his calling as a poet. This took him ultimately to the battlefields of the First World War, where he was killed one week before the Armistice, in November 1918. His parents received the telegram announcing his death as the Victory bells were ringing. They are buried in the churchyard at Dunsden, alongside his sister, Mary. Owen’s grave is in Ors, France. Now, The Dunsden Owen Association has created a special Wilfred Owen Trail to enable people to learn more about his life and work. It draws on letters that he had written and leads people on a tour of the village. The project, run in conjunction with arts company Outrider Anthems, has been awarded a

Wilfred Owen spent two years working at All Saints Church in Dunsden

v Reading’s war through the ages

READING MUSEUM is marking the First World War with a special exhibition. Running until September 14, Reading At War goes beyond the events of 100 years ago to look at how key conflicts have affected the town over the years. It starts with the Viking raids of 871 and continues right up to the present day with an insight into the current involvement of local men and women in Afghanistan. There is also a look at the

English Civil War siege of 1643 and an air raid on the town centre in 1943, which killed 41 people. Of course, the main thrust of the exhibition is on the impact the First World War had on the lives on people in Reading. Displays show how thousands of local men and boys joined the armed forces, leaving behind their loved ones to keep the home fires burning. Reading’s workforce, particularly women, were

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about Wilfred substantial Heritage Lottery Fund grant of £22,800 to make it a reality. Jennifer Leach, joint Chair of the Dunsden Owen Association and Director of Outrider Anthems, says of the award: “The generous grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund enables us to celebrate this unique connection with one of England’s greatest war poets. “We are developing the Wilfred Owen Trail as a Smartphone app and an online trail which will be launched on Sunday, November 9. “The trail will be based on the compelling letters Owen wrote to his home in Shropshire, and will take people around the local sites of his time in Dunsden. There will be alternative formats for nontechnically minded visitors.” Stuart McLeod, Head of the

Heritage Lottery Fund South East, said: “Through his poetry and letters, Wilfred Owen painted a vivid picture of the atrocities of the First World War. “He put pen to paper to express his feelings of anger at the cruelty he’d witnessed, giving us a rare glimpse at the changing conditions for local people in the run-up to the conflict. We are proud to be supporting this project.” To mark the trail’s launch and to highlight the anniversary of the First World War, All Saints in Dunsden and the Dunsden Owen Association are organising a range of special events, starting with a flower festival this month, culminating in a series of events around Armistice Day in November. vTo learn more about the Association visit www.owenindunsden.org

v Dunsden remembers July 12-13

November 8

November 11

All Saints Church, Dunsden. Flower Festival. 10am-4pm

All Saints Church, Dunsden. Wilfred Owen Concert. 7.30pm

Dunsden War Memorial. Armistice Service. 10.45am.

July 13

November 7-9

November 15

Dunsden Village Hall. Exhibition on the First World War and Dunsden.

Queen Anne’s School, Caversham. Concert, including Where Then Shall We Start? a new production by Outrider Anthems; Deep Under Turfy Grass, a premiere of this Wilfred Owen poem set to music by David Breeze and New Owen Settings, performed by The Reading A440 Choir.

Village Hall. Mementos and Memories Day. 2pm-5pm.

August 4 All Saints Church, Dunsden. Vigil Concert with The Reading A440 Choir, commemorating the moment 100 years ago when ‘the lights went out in Europe’. 9.30pm.

mobilised to support the war effort and to care for wounded soldiers in the town’s war hospitals. The exhibition is open Tuesday to Saturday from 10am to 4pm and Sundays from 11am to 4pm. It is closed on Mondays. v www.reading museum.org.uk. PICTURES: LYNDA BOWYER

November 9 All Saints Church, Dunsden. Remembrance Sunday Service. 9.30am. Followed by a 1914-1918 Luncheon at the Village Hall (tickets required).

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v We will remember Here are some of the ways in which we will mark the anniversary

The church will also host a small display featuring photos, papers and memories from parishioners.

ALDERMASTON – To mark the anniversary of the First World War, an Aldermaston church is holding a flower festival. St Mary’s in Hollybush Lane will open its doors to visitors over the August Bank Holiday weekend. Running from 10am to 5pm on Saturday, August 23 to Monday, August 26, the festival will also include hourly readings, letters and poems relating to the conflict. Light refreshments will also be available and donations towards the work of the church will be taken.

THEALE – The village will be coming together to mark the 100th anniversary of the outbreak of the First World War with a community fete on Saturday, September 13. The following Saturday, Holy Trinity Church will hold a concert with the Reading Phoenix Choir. The commemorations conclude on Sunday, September 28 with a service of rededication to the village’s War Memorial, led by the Bishop of Reading, the Rt Revd Andrew Proud.

READING – The Minster Church in St Mary’s Butts is hosting two special services, instigated by the Lord Lieutenant of Berkshire, the Hon Mary Bayliss JP. On Sunday, July 6, a multi-faith county service will be held and will see more than 300 young people from schools, Scouts, Guides, Cadet Forces and Youth Clubs take part. Before the service starts, the regimental emblems of the Berkshire Yeomanry, the Royal Berkshire Regiment and The Rifles will be laid on the Altar by the Archdeacon of Berkshire. Then, on Monday, August 4, a special Evensong will be held, marking the 100th anniversary of the date that England declared war on Germany. Starting at 7pm, everyone is welcome to attend. READING – On Sunday, August 3, the historic church of St James in Reading’s town centre will hold special First World War Requiem Masses.

WASING – The church of St Nicholas is hosting a special evensong service to commemorate the centenary of the First World War from 6pm on Sunday, August 3. WOKINGHAM – St Paul’s Church in Reading Road has planted poppies and will be the venue for a special service on Sunday, August 3. It starts at 9pm and continues with a vigil from 10pm. HENLEY – A First World War Drumhead service and parade will take place in the town centre on Sunday, August 3. Starting at 3pm, the Lord Lieutenant of Oxfordshire Tim Stevenson will unveil a new commemorative plaque at the Town Hall in Market Place after the service. Two more memorials will be unveiled at Holy Trinity Church and St Mary’s Church in November. NETTLEBED – The Village will host a Drumhead Service from 4pm on Sunday, August 4.

twitter: @ellbphotography tel: 0118 384 2129 web: www.lyndabowyerphotography.com

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Thames Valley Churches Football League

For more on the league, log on to tvcfl.footify.com or Twitter @TVCFL

Tilehurst Albion are the champions BY JAMES HERN & Chris Barltrop

n early May, Tilehurst Albion turned down the opportunity to become 2013/14 league champions and by doing so gave a lifeline to rivals Brookside St Laurence. Albion picked up maximum points against West Reading Reserves and Kerith FC when both teams had to forfeit their fixtures in April. When Bethel United and Brookside St Laurence drew 3-3 in a pulsating game in early May, Albion only had to secure a victory against Finchampstead to win the league. Leading 2-0 at half time, Albion blew Finchampstead away in the second half, scoring six further goals. However, wanting to win the league outright in the right manner, Albion rescheduled their fixture against Kerith FC which meant the rearranged fixture against Brookside St Laurence carried as much importance as the cup final that the two teams had played in the previous week. Brookside St Laurence won the game 2-1 which meant that Albion had to secure a win against Kerith FC in their last game of the season to win the league. Henley Town played host to the title deciding game in front of a large crowd of Albion supporters and Brookside St Laurence players, who hoped that a positive result for Kerith would win them the title. The game started slowly, with Albion dominating possession but Kerith looking

dangerous on the counter-attack. Any nerves Albion felt were calmed late in the first half as Ian Golbourne’s headed goal gave them a 1-0 lead at half time. Golbourne scored another header midway through the second half when a late run found him free at the far post to seemingly secure a victory. Kerith, however, had other plans and put the Albion goal under siege. Despite several missed opportunities and some vital saves from stand-in goalkeeper Sabeel Asghar, Albion defended resolutely until with only minutes left to play, a dangerous Ben Findley cross was turned into his own goal by Charlie Pearce: 2-1. Both sides had good chances to score further goals in a frantic last couple of

minutes but Albion managed to hang-on and secured their second league title in three seasons.

v Read our end of season reports for each team at xnmedia.co.uk

v Sign up to the league With the 2013/14 season now finished, plans for the league’s 27th season starting in September are firmly underway. Organisers would love more churches to get involved, whether to play regularly in the league or just play an occasional game in its two cup competitions. v To find out more, contact league secretary James Hern, by dropping an email to: tvcfl.secretary@gmail.com.

final league TABLE 2013-14 P W D L F A W D L F A GD PTS Tilehurst Albion 20 7 2 1 41 9 9 1 0 42 5 69 51 B’side St Laurence 20 8 0 2 36 17 8 1 1 42 20 41 49 Bethel United 19 6 2 1 21 10 7 0 3 27 15 23 41 Wycliffe Wanderers 20 7 0 3 27 22 6 2 2 27 12 20 41 West Reading 20 6 2 2 34 19 4 1 5 27 28 14 33 Norreys 20 4 1 5 17 20 5 0 5 31 29 -1 28 Kerith FC 20 5 1 4 27 22 3 2 5 33 24 14 27 Greyfriars FC 20 2 3 5 25 33 4 3 3 18 13 -3 24 Reading Saints 19 3 0 7 20 31 2 1 6 16 22 -17 16 Finchamp’ Bap’ 20 1 0 9 10 42 1 0 9 12 45 -65 6 W Rdg Reserves 20 0 0 10 11 58 0 0 10 8 56 -95 0 Table correct as of June 26, 2014

Awesome August @ The FBC Centre!

There’s tons to do for children and young people at the FBC Centre this August! From the 4th to the 29th there will be activities every weekday in and around the centre including: Get Creative craft sessions, Family Fun and a wide range of sport! For more information and full summer program visit our website: www.finchampstead.com

top SCORERS Ben Findlay Neil Healy Toby Briggs Jamie Carstairs Carl Wyatt James Hern Barry Agar Danny Lawrence Josh Baines Courtenay Isaacs Matt Blake George Hobden

Kerith FC 43 Wycliffe Wanderers 33 Tilehurst Albion 22 West Reading 22 Warfield FC 19 Greyfriars FC 16 Kerith FC 16 Tilehurst Albion 15 Tilehurst Albion 15 B’side St Laurence 15 Reading Saints 14 Warfield FC 14

v Get ready for an Awesome August in Finchampstead! August will be awesome this year at the FBC Centre in Finchampstead! Every weekday of the month will see different summer activities including amazing craft events in the Library, tons of different sports sessions in the Sports Hall and lazy film afternoons in The Loft. For more information and a full Awesome August timetable please visit our website: www.finchampstead. com. Alternatively, contact FBC’s Sport and Community Outreach Worker Jamie, by emailing Jamie@finchampstead.com.

summer

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Get set for a summer of fun The school holidays are getting closer! There’s no need to be bored as there are plenty of fun things to do. PHIL CREIGHTON finds out Arborfield – Outrageous! is the title of a week of fun running at the start of the summer holidays. The Coombes CE Primary School will be turned into a fun factory for youngsters aged 14 and under. Under fives can enjoy sessions running from 10am to noon, staying with their parents and carers for the duration. Those aged five and over can enjoy outrageous fun, activities, games, crafts and talks. Sessions run from 10am to 3pm and children need a packed lunch. The week runs from Monday, July 28 to Friday, August 1. v For more details, log on to www. abch.org.uk. CALCOT – Kennet Valley Free Church is running a holiday club from Monday, July 28 to Friday, August 1. Sessions run from 9.15am to 12.15pm each day and the club usually attracts 150 children. v For more details, log on to www. kvfc.org.uk CROWTHORNE – Friday afternoons are fun afternoons, thanks to the return of the annual Summer In The Rec event. Organised by churches in the village, there will be a range of activities for all ages to enjoy. The event runs on Fridays July 25, August 1, 8, 15 and 22. It takes place in the Morgan Recreation Ground.

READING – A super Superhero Holiday Club is planned for children aged five to 10. Sessions run from 10am to 12.30am from Monday, August 4 to Wednesday, August 6 at Oxford Road Community School. Organised and run by members of Greyfriars, Carey Baptist, Argyle Community, LifeSpring and Providence Chapel churches, the fun club will include crafts, games, stories and more. v For more details, call 07810 132805, or email superheroholidayclub@gmail.com. READING – All Nations Church in Reading will be looking at what makes a good team with its Shooting Stars club. Aimed at primary school children aged five to 11, the week runs from Monday, August 4 to Friday, August 8. Sessions run from 10am to noon. v For more details, email holidayclub@allnationselim.org. READING – Wycliffe Bapist Church in East Reading is counting down for a journey into space. The fun holiday club runs in The Warehouse, Cumberland Road, from Tuesday, August 26 to Friday, August 29 and is for primary school children aged five-11. v For details, call 0118 929 9911. TILEHURST – Mega Makers is coming to St Catherine of Siena this August. Running from 10am to noon on Monday, August

YOUR SAY

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11 to Friday, August 15, there will be games, drama, crafts music and more. Each day, children will perform a drama and a song for parents and carers to watch. It costs £10. v For more details, log on to www. stcatherines-tilehurst.org.uk. WOKINGHAM – St Paul’s Church is planning a Mega Makers event on July 24 and 25. v For more details, log on to www. stpauls-wokingham.org.uk WOKINGHAM – The Bradbury Centre will be the venue for a Waste Watchers holiday club, about two binmen and their teams who transform a rubbish tip into a beautiful park. The fun runs from Monday, July 28 to Friday, August 1 from 1.30pm-4.30pm. v For more details, log on to www. wokinghammethodist.org.uk WOKINGHAM WITHOUT – St Sebastian’s Church is holding Into The Jungle, a holiday club which promises to be perfect for little monkeys. Suitable for those in School Years 1-6, it includes bush tucker trials, singing, games and more. Sessions run from 9.30am-noon from Tuesday, August 19 to Friday, August 22. v For details and a booking form, visit www.stsebastians.org.uk. WOODLEY – Showstoppers! is coming to Christ Church Woodley from Monday, August 4 to Friday, August 8. The fun club runs from 10am to 12.30pm and is for ages five to 10. Entry is free. v For more details, call 0118 926 8590.

v Big day of fun EVERYONE is invited to join in the fun at the 10th South Reading Churches Fun Day, coming to Whitley later this month. Held on Saturday, July 12, attractions will include bouncy castles, a pirate slide, face painting, balloon modelling, football competitions, a messy play area and a human table football game. Thames Valley Police and Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service’s Whitley Wood Fire Station will be there and the event will be opened by Reading MPs Rob Wilson and Alok Sharma. The Fun Day will be on Rabson’s Recreation Ground, Northumberland Avenue, from noon until 3pm. v For more details, log on to www.southreadingchurches.co.uk

v Fun on the grapevine A SCHOOL based in Three Mile Cross is planning its own fun day, with the aim of raising funds for a minibus. The Vine Christian School is holding the family day of fun on Saturday, July 19. There will be lots to do with games including a penalty shootout and stalls with items for sale. Refreshments will include a cake stall and a barbecue. Children will enjoy dipping into a candy jar. There will also be a car boot sale. To book a pitch call Margaret on 07475 101212. The fun day starts at 9am and continues to 6pm. It will be held at Grazeley Village Hall in Church Lane, Grazeley. The postcode for sat navs is RG7 1LD. v www.vinechristianschool.org.uk

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Trades directory

Creative & craft v Marketing Creative thinker inspires results. • Award winning copywriting • Business development • Creative network • Mentoring Contact Hyperbole. 0118 966 6600. john@hyperbole.co.uk

v Resources Faith in the Community (Wokingham) – helping Christians work together to transform their local communities. Phone Sharon Elliott 07843 091950

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Services v Picture framing

frame direct ltd • Picture framing • Canvas stretching • Memorabilia framed – medals, handbags, football shirts etc • Extensive range of more than 1000 top quality mouldings to choose from • 10% discount if you quote Xn at time of ordering framing 25 High Street, Theale, RG7 5AH Email: phil@framedirect.co.uk Tel: 0118 930 2100 www.framedirect.co.uk

v Computer services Super IT. Computer repairs and maintenance. IT support for the home and office. Days, evenings, weekends. Reading and surrounding areas. Call Jason 07879 476 399 or 0118 967 7378. www.computer-repair-in-reading.com Email: support@computer-repair-inreading.com

BRINGING COMMUNIT Y TOGETHER To advertise call 0118 328 3108

House & home v Electrical

v Alarms

BURDEN Electrical

Domestic & Commercial & Maintenance

• Full/Part Rewires • Security Lights • Fuse Board Upgrades • Maintenance Contracts • Landlords Certificates

Reading based reliable and friendly service for all your electrical needs. FREE estimates, no Job too small!

• Refurbishments • Test & Inspections • New Builds • Alterations • Extensions

www.burdenelectrical.co.uk enquiries@burdenelectrical.co.uk

Life events A.B. Walker & Son – Berkshire’s leading family funeral and masonry service. www.abwalker.co.uk

v Counselling Philippi Trust Counselling and Training. Counselling offered for a variety of issues. Also Level 2 Introduction to Counselling courses starting in the Spring and Autumn. Contact 0118 966 7422 or email reading@philippi.co.uk

Advertising works!

“Our recent advert has been of great help over the last six months and therefore I’d like to renew for 2014 – We have been blessed with a church project, installing a corner kitchen area for a café project in Southcote.” Colman & Co – Trade Directory advertisers

Music

Financial

v Piano tuning

v Chartered Accountants

Piano Tuning Specialist. Member of Pianoforte Tuners Association, City & Guilds Part 1 & 2, Family trade for over 110 years. Contact: Mr S Benham, 0118 969 3729

v Piano accompaniment EXPERIENCED PIANO ACCOMPANIST available for music exams and recitals. Judith Creighton www.judithcreighton. co.uk or 07957 193366.

domestic alarm specialist

repairs-upgrades-servicing-Advice

For more information or a quote call Lee NOW on Mob: 0788 411 5707 or Tel: 0118 941 3187

v Funeral directors

BERKSHIRE HOME ALARMS

Accountancy and tax for • Businesses, partnerships and companies • Individuals • Charities (Independent Examiner), • Ministers of Religion Please contact Simon Porter, Chartered Accountant, on simon@porter-co.com or 0118 9478158. www.porter-co.com

Just good old fashioned personal service

0118 9507213

12 gordon place, reading

v Building solutions Colman and Co. Building Solutions. All aspects of building work undertaken: • Kitchens / Bathrooms • Loft Conversions / Extensions • Free Estimates and Planning www.colmanandco.com Telephone Darren on 07799 613892.

v Property services Chambers Property Services. Offering a wide range of building services including electrics, decorating, general repairs and renovations. Quality work, professional & value for money. Free quotes. www.chamberselectricalservices.co.uk 07760122129 chambersrg10@gmail. com

v Gardens New Leaf Gardening. Looking for a gardener? 25 years Horticultural Experience, Hedge Cutting, Lawn Care, Fencing, Planting, Pruning, Gutters Cleared, Odd Jobs Considered, No job too small. Fully Insured, Call Mark on 07944 290837

v Fitted bedrooms Andrew Laker – The Cabinetmaker. We specialise in made to measure wardrobes. Choice of many different designs and finishes. We are cheaper than larger bedroom installers. www. andrewlaker.co.uk 0118 948 2021

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classifieds

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House & home v Carpets callaghan carpets and flooring. Home pattern service from a reliable family company. Carpets, vinyls & commercial flooring 40 years’ experience. www. callaghanflooringandcarpets.co.uk or (0118) 962 8527. Mention Xn & 5% of total order goes to YeLDALl manor

v Plastering M & J Plastering. 25 years experience. All types of plastering undertaken. Repairs & Re-skim Experts. No job too small. For free advice and quote call Mark on 0777 550 9955 or 0777 082 9683 Mention Xn & 5% of total order goes to YeLDALl manor

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All Trade Directory adverts receive a FREE advert on the Xn website.

v Carpet cleaning Professional Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning. Trained and fully insured. Free, no obligation estimates. A.G Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning (0118) 3779149 or visit www.agcarpetandupholstery.co.uk Member of Trading Standards Buy with Confidence scheme www. buywithconfidence.gov.uk Mention Xn and 5% of total order goes to GREAT ORMOND STREET HOSPITAL

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Advertise in our trade directory We’re a brilliant way to promote your business to thousands of readers every month. To advertise in our trade directory, call Richard on 0118 328 3108 email richard@xnmedia.co.uk, or use this form

Trade directory Write your advert in the box below, one word per box. Use another sheet if necessary.

v Window cleaning STANDARD AND BAPTIST WINDOW CLEANING. Windows, Frames, uPVC, Solar Panels, Conservatories, Conservatory Rooves. A one off or regular, town and country service for 20 Miles around Reading. (0118) 954 7238 paul@standardandbaptist.co.uk

v Painting & decorating Superior Decor. Interior and exterior decorating. “A professional job at a realistic price”. For a free quote call Mick on freephone 0800 084 2501. Reading and South East covered. www.fine-painters-and-decorators.co.uk Email: info@fine-painters-anddecorators.co.uk

Category for advert: Your name: Phone number:

v Plumbing Patterson Plumbers. Bathroom installations, heating installations, plumbing repairs, free quotes, no job too small, over 60’s discount. Professional, reliable & honest. www.pattersonplumbers. co.uk 07921 572652 info@ pattersonplumbers.co.uk.

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Send your completed form, along with a cheque for £75 payable to Xn Media Ltd to: Trades Directory, Xn Media, Crown House, 231 King’s Road, Reading RG1 4LS Adverts will appear for 6 months. Standard terms apply. No firearms or pets.

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FAMILY CIRCLE

community

Keeping you in touch with each other Email your news to editor@xnmedia.co.uk

WOKINGHAM – Anne King, the new churchwarden All Saints’ Church in Wokingham, was sworn in to her role at the end of May with other local churchwardens at a special service in Finchampstead. It was led by the Archdeacon of Berkshire, The Venerable Olivia Graham, and the Registrar of the Diocese, Canon John Rees. In her charge – a sermon for the occasion – the Archdeacon affirmed the importance of the role of churchwardens as key people in the church’s task to spread the good news. All Saints’ Rector, the Revd Canon David Hodgson, said: “We need to keep Anne in our prayers and also find ways to make sure that tasks that might have been done by other churchwardens are shared out amongst a supportive team around her. ”

WOKINGHAM – The Revd Anna Harwood will be licensed by the Bishop of Reading, the Rt Revd Andrew Proud at All Saints Church,

TILEHURST – Members of The Intercessors Church helped lead a Songs of Praise event in Victoria Park on Sunday, June 22. More than 120 people came along to sing popular hymns in the sunshine, including All Things Bright and Beautiful. Organised by Churches Together in Reading it was led by its chairman, Michael Penny. He said: “It went really well. There were over 120 there with 10 ministers leading it.”

Wokingham on Thursday, July 17 from 7.30pm. The service will be followed by a reception and celebration in the Cornerstone Centre.

Church Cathedral in Oxford on Saturday, July 5. Father Sam will be a future curate of the Southampton Street church.

June 22. The church held a strawberry tea in the afternoon followed by a anniversary worship service with guest speaker the Revd Brian Coates.

v BURGHFIELD – The Revd Alison Jones was ordained as a priest on Sunday, June 22 at the Reading Minster Church in St Mary’s Butts. The following Sunday, Alison celebrated Holy Communion for the first time at St Mary’s Burghfield.

READING – Father Sam Cross was made Deacon of St Giles in Reading Church by The Right Revd John Pritchard, Lord Bishop of Oxford at Christ

FINCHAMPSTEAD – Hannah Brooks is joining Finchampstead & California Parish as a curate.

Her ordination was held at Christ Church Cathedral, Oxford on July 5, and she will be formally welcomed in the Parish at the Service of Evensong in St James’ Church on Sunday, July 6, starting at 6pm. The Revd Lisa Cornwell from Hannah’s home Parish of Crowthorne will be preaching, and refreshments will be served in St James’ Church Centre afterwards. Hannah (pictured above) is engaged to Matt, whom she met seven years ago, and they are to be married at St John’s Church, Crowthorne in September. Passionate about social justice she wrote her dissertation on the issue of human trafficking.

WINKFIELD ROW – The Methodist Chapel celebrated its 160th anniversary on Sunday,

GORING & STREATLEY – The United Benefice of Goring, Streatley and South Stoke has welcomed the Revd Paul Boughton as its new vicar. He was licenced at a special service held in St Mary’s, Streatley on May 15. He was previously Rector of St Mary’s in Fetcham, Surrey.

BRACKNELL – A spiritual director from South India will be visiting St Joseph’s Church in Stanley Walk this month. Brother John Martin was one of the closest followers of Father Bede Griffiths and is now spiritual director of Shantivanam Ashram in South India. He will be speaking on The Message of Christ in Our Secular World. His session on Thursday, July 10 starts with a meditation at 6pm, followed by refreshments and his talk at 7pm. Entry is free.

YATELEY – The Revd Sarah Yetman was ordained by the Bishop of Pontefract in St Anne’s, Southowram, on June 23. The church of St Peter’s Yateley celebrated with a family barbecue on Sunday, June 29.

Situations vacant

To advertise call Richard on 0118 328 3108 New Hope Community Church North Reading We are seeking to appoint a part-time

Community Children’s Worker who will co-ordinate our children’s ministry within the church and develop our outreach to children in the local area. New Hope is a church plant from Greyfriars, our aim is to be incarnational and missional in the residential area just north of the town centre. We operate a 3-storey community centre where our facilities and well established relationships with families from the neighbourhood have laid a foundation for an experienced person to come and build upon.

We are looking for someone who: Loves working with children and knows how to relate to the under 12s Has a passion for Jesus and the ability to make him known at a level children understand Is excited about being part of the wider mission of the Church to bless and befriend the community 20 Hours per week (including Sunday mornings) c.£11,000 per annum For more details and an application form please contact: Rev Joy Atkins on 0118 958 7047 or joy.atkins@greyfriars.org.uk Closing date: Monday 14th July 2014 Interviews: Friday 18th July 2014 This post is subject to a Genuine Occupational Requirement that the person is a practising Christian and also to a satisfactory Enhanced DBS disclosure.

YOUTH PASTOR An exciting new role, leading our engagement with young people A vibrant, growing church at the heart of its community, St Matthew’s Reading is looking for an enthusiastic and dynamic individual to join its Ministry Team, developing its ministry to young people (11 to 18). Already with a thriving Sunday morning ‘Kidz Church’ (5-11’s), we need the right person to set up and lead our ministry to older children and teenagers. With relevant experience of working with young people, the successful applicant will have a passion for sharing the Gospel, excellent pastoral and interpersonal skills, and a desire to see the Church at the centre of the community. Hours: 16 hours a week plus Sundays Salary: £10,000 pa For more details and an application pack please contact pads.dolphin@st-matts.org.uk Closing Date: 12th July 2014

www.st-matts.org.uk

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WHAT’S ON

Keeping you in touch with each other

there’s much, much more online!

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We can’t fit everything into the print edition, so log on to xnmedia.co.uk for more events Sunday, July 6

Wednesday, July 9

Friday July 11

CAVERSHAM PARK – Milestone Centre. Hymz and Cakes: an hour of favourite hymns with refreshments. Requests welcome. 3.30pm. All welcome. Details: 0118 947 5152. FINCHAMPSTEAD – St James. Service of evensong to welcome new curate. All welcome. READING – Reading Minster Church, St Mary’s Butts. Commemoration Service for the First World War, organised by the Lord Lieutenant of Berkshire. Time 4pm. Details: 0118 937 2281. READING – Reading Deaf Centre, Cardiff Road. Reading Deaf Church meeting. 10.30am. Details: www. readingdeafcentre.org.uk. HENLEY – Mill Meadows Bandstand. Chinnor Silver Band. 2pm-4pm. Details: 01491 576982. READING – Forbury Gardens. Watership Brass. 3pm-4.30pm. 0118 937 2771

BEARWOOD – Bearwood College. Opera at Bearwood summer opera, Romeo and Juliet. 7.30pm. £16, £14 concessions. Details: as Tuesday. BEENHAM – Across village. Beenham Scarecrow Festival: traditional fairy tales. TWYFORD – Loddon Hall. Twyford Folk Music Workshop, 8pm. If you play an acoustic instrument and can read music then contact Colin 0118 934 0300. UPPER WOOLHAMPTON – Douai Abbey. Organ and Oratorio Recital in aid of ABF, the Soldiers’ Charity. £10, £8 concessions. Details: 08455 218218 or www.douaiabbey.org.uk.

BEARWOOD – Bearwood College. Opera at Bearwood: Romeo and Juliet. Details as Tuesday. BEENHAM – Across village. Beenham Scarecrow Festival. READING – Irish Centre. Reading Pastoral Area Cafod group presents an International Evening: singing, dancing, music and more. £5. 8pm TILEHURST – Village Hall, Victoria Road. Tilehurst Amateur Dramatic Society presents the comedy Agatha Crusty and the Village Hall Murders. 7.45pm. £7.50. Details: tilehurstamateurdramaticsociety. webplus.net.

Monday, July 7 BEENHAM – Across village. Beenham Scarecrow Festival: traditional fairy tales. WOODLEY – The Oakwood Centre, Headley Road RG5 4JZ. Disclosure and Barring Service Workshop led by Ben Cross (Reading Children’s & Voluntary Youth Services). 9.30am12.30pm. £25. Details: 0118 921 0555 or training@wbvsf.info.

Tuesday, July 8 BEARWOOD – Bearwood College. Opera at Bearwood summer opera, Romeo and Juliet. 7.30pm. £16, £14 concessions. Details: 07826 518853, boxoffice@ operaatbearwood.org.uk or visit www.operaatbearwood.org.uk. BEENHAM – Across village. Beenham Scarecrow Festival: traditional fairy tales. FINCHAMPSTEAD – St James’ Church Centre. Fledgelings Toddler & Baby Group in St James’ Church Centre. Crafts, story-time, toys, etc. Light refreshments for all. 1.45pm. Details: beth@peat.me.uk. FINCHAMPSTEAD – St Mary & St John’s Parish Centre, Billing Avenue. Tea and Chat. 2pm. Drop in for a cup of tea, cake and chat. Everyone welcome.

Thursday, July 10 BEARWOOD – Bearwood College. Opera at Bearwood: Romeo and Juliet. 7.30pm. Details as Tuesday. BEENHAM – Across village. Beenham Scarecrow Festival: traditional fairy tales. BRACKNELL – St Joseph’s Stanley Walk RG12 1HA. Visit and talk by Brother John Martin. Meditation 6pm, talk 7pm. Free entry. Details: Annie Cygler 01344 772496, 07944 529394. FINCHAMPSTEAD – St James’ Church. Finchampstead & California Mothers’ Union Centenary Service, followed by tea in Church Centre. 2pm. All welcome. Details: Sarah Owen, 0118 973 3111.

Saturday, July 12 ALDERMASTON – Primary School. SchoolFest. 4pm-10.30pm. BEARWOOD – Bearwood College. Opera at Bearwood: Romeo and Juliet. Details as Tuesday. BEENHAM – Across village. Beenham Scarecrow Festival. CAVERSHAM – Christchurch Meadows. Caversham Festival. Details: www. cavershamfestival.co.uk. CAVERSHAM – Caversham Court Gardens. St Peter’s and St Margaret Church’s fete. From 1.45pm. Entertainment: 2pm The Hurst Morris People. 2.20pm Berkshire Maestros. 2.30pm The Wright School of Dance. 2.50pm Berkshire Maestros. 3.10pm Hurst Morris People. 3.30pm Fred In The Shed. 4pm Children’s Races.

tune in ON sundayS!

Hear Xn editor Phil Creighton at 8.25am every Sunday on BBC Radio Berkshire Find out what’s happening in the week ahead by switching on Paul Coia’s show on BBC Radio Berkshire every Sunday morning from 7am. Phil presents his pick of the week around 8.25am.

Submit your events to editor@xnmedia.co.uk 4.30pm Grand draw. Details: www. stpetercaversham.org.uk. CROWTHORNE – The Old Gym, Wellington College. Crowthorne Symphony Orchestra summer concert. £10 in advance, £12 on door, under 16s free. 7.30pm. Details: www. crowthorneorchestra.com. CROWTHORNE – St John the Baptist Church, Waterloo Road. Crowthorne Carnival Flower Festival: Strictly Showtime, in aid of Crowthorne First Responders. 10am-6pm. Details: www.facebook.com/ crowthorneflowerfestival. FINCHAMPSTEAD – St Mary & St John’s Parish Centre. Messy church. 11am1pm. Deatils: beth@peat.me.uk. FINCHAMPSTEAD – Finchampstead CofE School. Summer fair. Noon-3pm. HARE HATCH – Yeldall Manor RG10 9XR. Open afternoon with celebration service for the work of Yeldall Manor. 1pm-5pm. Details: info@yeldall.org.uk. NEWBURY – Kennet Christian Centre. Christians Together in the Newbury Area prayer breakfast: focus on Christian Aid. 8am-9.30am. Details: ctnablog.wordpress.com. READING – Forbury Gardens. Bastille Day celebrations. Details: www. bastilledayreading.co.uk. READING – Reading Ukrainian Community Centre, 21 Sidmouth Street, RG1 4QZ. Monthly board gamers club, all welcome. Noon-11pm. £1. Details: peter@rucc.org.uk. READING – Reading Central Salvation Army, Anstey Road. Coffee morning and good as new sale. 10am. Details: www.readingcentral.org.uk. READING – Earley Christian Fellowship, Wokingham Road RG6 1LW. Community Fun Day, 10am-3pm. SANDHURST – Church of the Immaculate Conception, Yorktown Road GU47 9BS. Parish barbecue. £5, under 12s free. Bring own drink and glasses. Details: www.crowsand.co.uk. TILEHURST – St Catherine’s, Wittenham Ave RG31 5LN. Community summer fair in church centre and halls. Fun, games and stalls for all the family! 2pm-4pm. Free entry. WHITLEY – Rabson’s Recreation Ground, Northumberland Avenue. South Reading Churches Fun Day for all the family. Noon-3pm. WOKINGHAM – St Paul’s Church, Reading Road. South Berkshire Singers and guests, in aid of Daisy’s Dream and NSPCC. 7.30pm. WOOLHAMPTON – Woolhampton School. School and village summer fayre. Noon-2pm. Free entry. WOODLEY – Christ Church, Crockhamwell Road. Monthly ramble from church car park. All welcome. 10am. Come dressed

for the weather. Details: www.christchurch-woodley.org.uk. YATELEY – Deron, Old Welmore GU46 6XB. Garden party with refreshments, stalls and jewellery. Live music. 11am-5pm. In aid of Phyllis Tuckwell Hospice.

Sunday, July 13 BEENHAM – Across village. Beenham Scarecrow Festivals. BEECH HILL – Village green. Songs of Praise organised by Beech Hill Baptist Chapel. 3.30pm. CROWTHORNE – St John the Baptist Church, Waterloo Road. Crowthorne Carnival Flower Festival Noon-6pm. Songs of Praise 6.30pm. READING – Forbury Gardens. Bastille Day celebrations. Details: www. bastilledayreading.co.uk.

Monday, July 14 CROWTHORNE – St John the Baptist Church, Waterloo Road. Crowthorne Carnival Flower Festival. 10am-4pm. BRACKNELL – Kerith Centre, Church Road. Fostering and adoption information evening. 7.30pm. Details: kerith.co.uk.

Tuesday, July 15 FINCHAMPSTEAD – St Mary & St John’s Parish Centre, Billing Avenue. Community Simple Lunch from Finchampstead Baptist Centre and the Anglican Parish of Finchampstead & California, providing a simple lunch for local people at a minimal cost. All welcome. Noon. Details: The Revd Mark-Aaron Tisdale, 0118 973 0030. FINCHAMPSTEAD – St James’ Church Centre. Fledgelings Toddler & Baby Group in St James’ Church Centre. Crafts, story-time, toys, etc. 1.45pm. Details: beth@peat.me.uk.

Wednesday, July 16 READING – St Giles Church, Southampton Street. Lunchtime organ concert given by Ian May from 1.15pm-2pm. Refreshments/Collection. Details: 07765 118895.

Thursday, July 17 EARLEY – Earley Crescent Resource Centre, Warbler Drive. Trustee Roles and Responsibilities workshop. 5.30pm-8.30pm. £25. Details: 0118 921 0555 or training@wbvsf.info. GORING – St Thomas of Canterbury Church. Pick-A-Flick for retired people: North By Northwest. Film and light lunch. £3. 10.30am. Details: 01491 872109.

Take time out and enjoy a cuppa and a chat! You can’t beat a good cup of coffee and a chance to chat – and that’s what you can Come and join us on enjoy at Coffee & Chat, a brilliant new coffee morning in Reading’s town centre! Wednesdays! Abbey Baptist Church • Meet old friends, make new ones • Everyone is welcome • Tea, coffee, cakes and biscuits all available • Wednesdays 11am-12.30pm

Abbey Square, Reading (behind Reading Central Library) (0118) 957 2197 www.abbeybaptistchurch.org.uk

calendar Friday, July 18 FINCHAMPSTEAD – St James’ Church. Patronal and Flower Festival weekend: launch night with light refreshments. 7pm-9pm. Details: 0118 973 0133. TILEHURST – Village Hall, Victoria Road. Tilehurst Amateur Dramatic Society presents Agatha Crusty and the Village Hall Murders. 7.45pm. £7.50. Details: tilehurstamateurdramaticsociety. webplus.net. WOKINGHAM – Emmbrook Sports & Social Club, Lowther Road RG41 1JB. Wokingham Music Club: Bruce Neil Band. £5/£7.50 on the door. Details: Stan Hetherington 07831 130610.

Saturday, July 19 FINCHAMPSTEAD – St James’ Church. Patronal and Flower Festival. 10am5pm. Choir summer concert. 7.30pm. Details: 0118 973 0133. HENLEY – Fawley Meadow. Thames Traditional Boat Rally. Also Sunday. Details: www.tradboatrally.com. HENLEY – Mill Meadows. Jubilee Brass, 2pm. Details: 01491 576982. WOODLEY – Baptist Church, Hurricane Way. Summer fair. Details: www. woodleybc.org.

Sunday, July 20 FINCHAMPSTEAD – St James’ Church. Patronal and Flower Festival weekend: church tower open, stalls and games. 2pm-5pm. Details: 0118 973 0133. HENLEY – Henley Show Ground, Greenlands Farm. Henley Sheepdog Trial. Details: www.thehenleyshow. co.uk, 01491 413619. HENLEY – Fawley Meadow. Thames Traditional Boat Rally. Also Sunday. Details: www.tradboatrally.com. READING – Forbury Gardens. Charles Church Camberley Band, 3pm. Details: 0118 937 2771. SANDHURST – Baptist Church. Church barbecue from noon. Details: www. sandhurstbaptists.org.uk. UPPER WOOLHAMPTON – Douai Abbey. Reading Youth Choir, Berkshire Youth Voices and Berkshire Youth Guitar Orchestra in concert. 7.45pm. £10, £5 concessions. Details: 08455 218218 or www.douaiabbey.org.uk. YATELEY – Yateley School field. St Peter’s Church presents a family picnic. 12.30pm. All welcome. Details: 01252 873647 or www. stpetersyateley.info.

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EVERY ISSUE WE PRINT & DISTRIBUTE 15,000 COPIES Xn is a fantastic vehicle to promote any special events, concerts, gatherings or parties you are holding – and with adverts starting at just £25 for local, community groups and charities, it’s great value. For details email advertising@xnmedia. co.uk today

Tuesday, July 22 FINCHAMPSTEAD – St James’ Church Centre. Fledgelings Toddler & Baby Group in St James’ Church Centre. 1.45pm. Details: beth@peat.me.uk. FINCHAMPSTEAD – St Mary & St John’s Parish Centre, Billing Avenue. Tea and Chat. 2pm. Drop in for a cup of tea, cake and chat. Everyone welcome. HENLEY – Christ Church Centre, Reading Road RG9 1AG. Teddy Praise: story and singalong for little ones followed by fish finger sandwiches. 11.30am. Details: christchurchhenley.org.uk. SOUTHCOTE – Grange URC, Circuit Lane. Celtic healing service. 8pm. All welcome. Details: wellspringchristianhealing.org.

Wednesday, July 23 READING – St Giles Church, Southampton Street. Lunchtime organ concert given by Malcolm Stowell. 1.15pm-2pm. Refreshments/Collection. Details: 07765 118895.

Thursday, July 24 HENLEY – Market Place. Farmers Market, 8.30am-2pm. READING – Abbey Baptist Church, Abbey Square (behind Central Library). Julian Meeting: a time for silent, contemplative prayer. 10am-10.45am. Followed by coffee. All welcome. WOKINGHAM – St Paul’s Parish Rooms, Reading Road. Holiday club for primary school children. Details: www.stpauls-wokingham.org.uk.

Friday, July 25 ALDERMASTON – The Barn, Meadow Brook, Frouds Lane. Aldermaston Players summer panto Treasure

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Island. 6.30pm. £10, children £5, family £25. Details: treasure@ aldermastonplayers.co.uk. READING – St James’ Church, Abbots Walk. Introduction to Alpha evening – all welcome. 7.30pm. Details: www. jameswilliam-reading.org.uk.

Saturday, July 26 ALDERMASTON – The Barn, Meadow Brook, Frouds Lane. Aldermaston Players panto. 12.30pm and 6.30pm. £10, children £5, family £25. Details: treasure@aldermastonplayers.co.uk. HENLEY – Mill Meadows Bandstand. Lucky 2b Alive. 2pm. WOKINGHAM – St Paul’s Parish Rooms. Wokingham and District Art Exhibition. 10am-5pm. Refreshments available. Continues until August 8. Details: wokinghamartsociety.org.uk. WOODLEY – Christ Church, Crockhamwell Road. Quiz night. 7.30pm. Details: www.christ-church-woodley.org.uk.

Sunday, July 27 HENLEY – Mill Meadows. Roy Bailey Band. 2pm. READING– Forbury Gardens. Woodley Concert Band. 3pm. WOODLEY – Christ Church, Crockhamwell Road. Monthly games afternoon. All welcome. Details: www.christ-churchwoodley.org.uk.

Monday, July 28 READING – Forbury Gardens. Teddy Bears’ Picnic. 10am-noon, 1pm-3pm. Details: 0118 937 3400 or www. readingmuseum.org.uk.

Tuesday, July 29 ARBORFIELD – The Coombes CE School.

| www.xnmedia.co.uk | July/August 2014

Outrageous! holiday club for ages 5-14. 10am-3pm. Club for under fives and carers. 10am-noon. Details: www. abch.org.uk.

Thursday, July 31 FINCHAMPSTEAD – St James’ Church Centre. Men’s Group barbecue. 7pm. Details: 0118 973 05556.

Saturday, August 2 TILEHURST – United Reformed Church, Armour Road. Coffee morning and bring and buy sale. 10.30am-noon.

Sunday, August 3 CAVERSHAM PARK – Milestone Centre. Hymz and Cakes: an hour of favourite hymns with refreshments. Requests welcome. 3.30pm. All welcome. Details: 0118 947 5152. READING – Reading Deaf Centre, Cardiff Road. Reading Deaf Church meeting. 10.30am. Details: www. readingdeafcentre.org.uk. WASING – St Nicholas. Evensong to commemorate the centenary of the First World War. 6pm. WOKINGHAM – St Paul’s, Reading Road. Town service to mark centenary of outbreak of the First World War 9pm. Vigil of Remembrance. 10pm. HENLEY – Mill Meadows Bandstand. Michelle B, 2pm. HENLEY – Town Centre. First World War parade. Details: 01491 576982 READING – Forbury Gardens. Group Sax, 3pm. Details: 0118 937 2771. READING – St James’ Church, Abbots Walk. Requiem Masses to

commemorate the 100th anniversary of the First World War. Time TBC. Details: www.jameswilliam-reading. org.uk SANDHURST – Baptist Church. Picnic at the Rec: bring your own and join in the fun. From noon. Details: www. sandhurstbaptists.org.uk. WASING – St Nicholas Church. Special evensong to mark the centenary of the First World War. 6pm.

Monday, August 4 READING – All Nations Christian Centre, Berkeley Avenue. Shooting Stars holiday club for ages 5-11. 10am-noon. Until Friday. Details: holidayclub@allnationselim.org. READING – Minster Church of St Mary The Virgin, St Mary’s Butts. Evensong of Remembrance to mark the 100th anniversary of the start of the First World War. 7pm. All welcome. SONNING – Reading Rugby Club, Holme Park, Sonning Lane RG4 6ST. The Gathering family camp with speakers Dr Michael Maiden and Yinka Oyekan, activities for children and more. Until Friday. Details: 0118 941 5557. WOODLEY – Christ Church, Crockhamwell Road. Showstoppers! holiday club for children aged five to 10. 10am12.30pm. Free. Details: 0118 926 8590. Until Friday.

For full August listings, visit xnmedia.co.uk/ whatson

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July/August 2014 | www.xnmedia.co.uk | To advertise call 0118 328 3108

BREAK TIME

Pit your wits against our brainteasers

Codeword

Kakuro

Place 1 to 9 in each white cell. To choose the right number you need to work from the clues in around the edge. The numbers below the diagonal lines are the sums of the solutions in the white cells immediately beneath. The numbers above the divide are the sums of the solutions immediately to the right. Rows and columns do NOT have to be unique. Thus, if a 3 is shown as a clue there will be two cells waiting for you to put the digits 1 and 2 in them – the only possible sum that will equal 3. The final rule is that no number may be repeated in any block. For example, if the clue is 4, the only possible solution will be 1 and 3 (or 3 and 1), never 2 and 2.

Numbers are substituted for letters in the crossword grid. Below is the key with two letters solved. Try to complete the first few words to give you more letters, or look for a frequent number that might reveal a common letter. As you find letters, enter them in the key and into the grid. Cross off the letters in the A to Z list.

Are you stuck?

STR8TS

SUDOKU

Sudoku

Easy

5 3 9 7 7 7 6

1 4 3 2 5 4 3 1 2 4

1 3 8 6

Tough

9 7 2 7 3 5 9

2 7

5 7

1 8 6 3 How to beat Str8ts – Like Sudoku, no single number 1 to 9 can repeat in any row or column. But... rows and columns are divided by black squares into compartments. 2 1 4 Each compartment must form a straight 6 4 5 a set of numbers with no gaps but it can be 4 5 in any order, eg [7,6,9,8]. Clues in black cells 4 3 6 2 remove that number as an option in that row and column, and are not part of any straight. 3 5 2 1 Glance at the solution to see how ‘straights’ 2 1 3 are formed.

9 9 8

5 3 2 2 1 1 5 4

1 2 4 5

3 4

6 3 7

Str8ts

The answers are on p34

To complete Sudoku, fill the board by entering numbers 1 to 9 such that each row, column and 3x3 box contains every number uniquely. For many strategies, hints and tips, visit www.sudokuwiki.org for Sudoku and www.str8ts.com for Str8ts. If you like Str8ts and other puzzles, check out our books, iPhone/iPad Apps and much more on our store.

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FREETIME

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| www.xnmedia.co.uk | July/August 2014

Arts, leisure and hobbies – with a local perspective

Win a £70 voucher to dine at Côte Brasserie

v Shopping list

The team at Côte Wokingham are looking forward to welcoming you Main picture: Lynda Bowyer

ocated on Broad Street, Wokingham, Côte Brasserie is open every day for breakfast, lunch and dinner. To celebrate the new branch’s recent opening, Côte Brasserie is exclusively offering readers of Xn the chance to win a meal for two to the value of £70. In addition, one lucky runner up will win a presentation wine box with a bottle of Sauvignon Blanc La Place and Merlot Chemin de Marqueire. Inspired by new trends in Paris, Côte is dedicated to serving authentic dishes with a modern twist, using high quality produce at great prices. On the menu, guests will always find brasserie favourites such as steak frites, tuna Niçoise and chargrilled corn-fed Breton chicken and, for dessert, Côte’s crème caramel and crème brûlee are much–loved house specialities. The extensive wine list displays an indepth knowledge and features wines from a variety of producers ranging from big names such as Châteauneuf-du-Pape to the artisanal Château

de Tréviac from Corbières. Seasonality and Côte’s commitment to sourcing high-quality ingredients results in a regularly changing specials menu, ensuring there is always something new to delight regular guests. Côte’s weekday lunch and early evening menu provides outstanding value at £9.95 for two courses and £11.90 for three courses; perfect for a quick lunch or relaxed dining. “Robust French flavours, cheery continental vibes and brilliant value for money.” Good Food Guide To be in with a chance of winning that £70 voucher these prizes, answer the following question: Where is Château de Tréviac produced? Burgundy, Bordeaux or Corbières Send your answer along with your name and contact details by noon on Friday, July 25 to: Côte Brasserie contest, Xn Media, Crown House, 231 King’s Road, Reading RG1 3LP or email editor@xnmedia.co.uk. You can also enter online, via our website, xnmedia.co.uk

v Find Côte in Wokingham The new Côte Brasserie restaurant has opened at 18 Broad Street, Wokingham, RG40 1AQ. For more details, call the branch on 0118 979 9194 or send an email to wokingham@cote-restaurants.co.uk. Terms and Conditions: Only one entry per household. Editor’s decision is final and prizes are nontransferable. Prize does not include travel to and from restaurant. Employees and relatives of Côte Brasserie and Xn Media prohibited from entering.

We know, we know, school is not even out for summer yet but Back To School sales are on. Many parents have been pining for ethical schoolwear and now those prayers have been answered, thanks to the launch of ethical and sustainable school uniform brand Ecooutfitters. Ecooutfitters believes that natural, ethically produced, chemical free fabrics are important for the wellbeing of our children and our planet. Its range includes: polo shirts, sweatshirts, cardigans, fleeces, boys and girls trousers, skirts and pinafores. v For more information or to nominate your school to be outfitted, visit www.ecooutfitters.co.uk.

You won’t want to hide these slippers. Brown Cow Organics makes the most of the by-products from its organic food range by turning them into something useful. These Brown Cow unisex hide slippers are ethically produced and handmade in Somerset from Guernsey Brown Cow hides with natural unbleached sheepskin lining and Eva soles. The slippers are long (fluffy) or short (sleek) haired and are available in five natural hide colours; black, dark brown, light brown, roan and tan/white. v For more details and to order, visit www. browncoworganics.co.uk.

Lupo & Wolf is a new fashion jewellery house that is dedicated to animal conservation. v To see the range for yourself, log on to www.lupowolf.com.

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July/August 2014 | www.xnmedia.co.uk | To advertise call 0118 328 3108

what’s cooking?

RECIPE

Sweet and sourdough

A Fairtrade cola from Down Under is on top of the world after being voted the world’s fairest trader. Fairtrade International has awarded All Good Organics, producers of ethical soft drink Karma Cola, the international Fairtrade Trader award – pipping 27,000 products in more than 120 countries. Karma Cola and its brother and sister drinks Lemmy and Gingerella, are now on sale in London. The drinks benefit people in West Africa, Sri Lanka and India. v For more on the cola, visit karmacola.co.uk

U v

Make the most of summer with some delicious organic soup that can be eaten hot or cold. Tideford Organics are lovingly produced in Devon and there are three new soups in the range: Pea & Mint, Beetroot with Crème Fraiche & Dill and a wonderful Classic Gazpacho. They are perfect for al fresco dining and, made with organic ingredients, they taste as good as if you’ve made them yourself. The soups are available in a 600g pot size which is plenty for two (rrp £2.79) and are available from Ocado, Planet Organics, Whole Foods and all well-known independents nationwide. v www.tidefordorganics.com

Have you got knobbly knees? Nature’s Path needs to know! The Gluten-Free breakfast expert is asking Britons to show off their knobbly knees! It’s all in support of the firm’s new Nice and Nobbly granola bars. The winning knees get £500. You can enter at naturespath.co.uk/about/contests/nobbly-knees

How do you plan to stay healthy as you age? Everyone feels the effects of ageing and many of us worry about age-related diseases common in our families, but studies show that the way you age is determined by your diet and lifestyle far more than the genes you have inherited. In their new book Eat to GEt YounGEr, award-winning nutritionists Lorraine Nicolle and Christine Bailey lift the lid on the drug-free secrets to staying strong, slim, happy, energised, and pain-free into your middle- and later-years. Featuring more than 100 recipes designed to reduce pain, lower cholesterol, ease the menopause, lose weight, improve your skin, and reduce the risk of age-related conditions such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, Alzheimer’s and diabetes.

“It’s great to find a book packed full of sensible advice” Janey Lee Grace Eat to GEt YounGEr by Lorraine Nicolle and Christine Bailey Published by Singing Dragon, £14.99, ISBN: 9781848191792

sing a sourdough starter in your everyday baking gives cakes, scones, pancakes, pastries and muffins the most wonderful flavour. After the bacteria and the yeast have had some time to ferment an un-refreshed starter has so much flavour, that it is almost criminal to throw it away, says Vanessa Kimbell. Vanessa is the lead judge of the sourdough category of Tiptree World Bread Awards, and teaches people to bake with sourdough. Her recipe for sourdough starter can be found on her website, www.sourdough.co.uk. She is also the resident baking expert for the leading supplier of artisan baking equipment in the UK, Bakery Bits – www.bakerybits.co.uk She says: “I encourage students to think about how they can incorporate sourdough into their everyday baking. I make my Victoria sandwich cake, or chocolate cake and even scones using sourdough. “Using sourdough gives your cakes and bakes good flavour, and that slight sourness gives a back note, a base flavour that balances the overall taste. You can’t really identify the sourdough itself. It’s more of a recognition that this tastes amazing … but you can’t quite tell why.”

v Sourdough Scones This recipe uses your un-refreshed leaven to add flavour and texture to your scones. They are light, golden, have a slight crunch on the outside and the addition of the sourdough gives them a better keeping quality. Un-refreshed sourdough is slightly acidic, so it reacts with the baking powder in the selfraising flour and gives you lighter scones Makes 8 v 225g self-raising flour v 75g slightly salted butter, chilled, cut in small pieces v 50g Fairtrade sugar v ¼ tsp sea salt v 125ml buttermilk (but ordinary full fat milk is also fine) v 100g of un-refreshed sourdough starter v 1tbs fresh lemon juice v 3–4 tbsp milk v Extra flour, for dusting v Sugar, for sprinkling v 1 egg, beaten with a tbsp of milk for the glaze v Fresh cream and raspberry jam, to serve Preheat the oven to 180°C/Gas mark 4 Put the flour, butter, salt and sugar into a bowl. Mix well. Make a well in the centre. In a large jug whisk the sourdough starter and the buttermilk and lemon juice together then pour into the centre of your dry mix. Bring the mixture together to form a dough. If the dough seems a bit too dry, add a drop more milk slowly just a few drops at a time, if it is too sticky then add a dusting of flour to handle it more easily. Turn out onto a floured work surface and use your hands to form a 2.5cm round. Cut out shapes from this, depending on your preference, and put them on a baking tray. Glaze the scones with the beaten egg and bake for 18 to 20 minutes and sprinkle with sugar. Cool on a wire rack. If you want to freeze these scones, do so as soon as they are cool. Scones are normally best enjoyed the same day, but these are just as lovely the next day. Keep wrapped in a linen cloth.

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crafts

Ever fancied knitting a fruit cake? With designs based on a biscuit tin and a beer mat, Felicity Ford is a real knit wit. VIVIENNE JOHNSON casts off to find out more

ever judge a book by its cover, or its title. The Knitsonik Stranded Colourwork Sourcebook may not fully convey the fun, inspiration and downright “wackiness” of the contents. Local artist Felicity Ford has a love and dedication to the art and craft of knitting that knows no bounds. She has travelled from Shetland to Estonia to study the fantastic colourwork knitting you will recognise on Shetland jumpers. Not content with knitting other people’s patterns she wanted to design her own textiles and you won’t believe what she has used for inspiration. “I’m really interested in celebrating everyday life,” Felicity said, adding: “The ordinary, which we often overlook.” The ordinary, everyday things that motivated her include the A4074 road that she spends so much time on, Reading’s famous brickwork and a fruit cake. Felicity is using a photograph of a patch of flowers at the end of her street for her latest pattern. “At the start of the swatch [pattern] you can see the brickwork, the dandelions,” she explains. “I got excited about it, I would never pick those colours. But suddenly you get a picture to work with and in the picture you’ve got this grey, bluey, browney warm colour.

Felicity Ford with a creation inspired from a Huntley & Palmers biscuit tin PICTURE: LYNDA BOWYER teach people about her system. “Then you’ve got this bright People brought items to her class green with this yellow, then you’ve that were important to them such got these pops of blue and you as vegetables from their allotment think, right, this can work as an or a piece of china they had found idea.” on the beach. Even a photograph of a road “There was something very excites Felicity. “How amazing is the tarmac? It’s got purple in it, it’s got grey, you get these bright umbels at the side of the road. There’s a bright red road sign. You get this amazing colour.” Felicity feels that a lot of people who knit aren’t necessarily from an artistic background. “People who knit are incredibly technical, there’s a lot of mathematicians, scientists and so on,” she explained. “Actually it’s quite scary if you haven’t spent 10 years in Art College to just start a creative process. People worry it’s going to cost money and ask ‘What if I make something really ugly?’ ‘What if it looks terrible?’” Felicity had an idea of how to solve this problem and started to

concerts

v A little bit of lunchtime music A READING church is planning two lunchtime concerts this summer. St Giles in Reading in Southampton Street is opening its doors for organ appreciators on Wednesdays, July 16 and July 23. Starting at 1.15pm and ending at 2pm, each concert has free entry and refreshments available. Organisers will welcome donations towards costs.

The first concert will be given by the church’s resident organist Ian May. The following Wednesday, it will welcome Malcolm Stowell, chairman of the Windsor & District Organists’ Association. Everyone is welcome. v For more details, log on to www.sgilesreading.org.uk or call 07765 118895.

rich about that,” she said. “The level of personal meaning in this knitting was really exciting. Then there was this sharing of practical knowledge. “So, OK, you have this thing you are really inspired by, how do you turn it into knitting?” Felicity found that the classes weren’t long enough to teach everything she wanted to and the idea of writing a book was born. Felicity uses all these ideas and more, in The Knitsonik Stranded Colourwork Sourcebook. In it’s pages you’ll find the brick of Reading, the Gillette building, the sloes from a tree in her garden, the pattern from a Huntley and Palmer biscuit tin. There is even a beer mat pattern. “It’s the Hop Back Brewery,” she said. “Their beer is my favourite.” Keep your eyes open for Felicity Ford’s book later in the year. v For more on Felicity, log on to www.felicityford.co.uk and www.knitsonik.com. v For an insight into woollen textiles, log on to wovember.com.

leisure

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v Gee up for the donky derby SANDHURST – Wet weather in May means that the annual Sandhurst Donkey Derby will now take place on Sunday, August 24. This year is the 48th time that the races have taken place. The fun day gives guests the chance to become a jockey in the famous races, take in a fairground and enjoy visiting a range of fun stalls. Organised by the village’s Catholic church, the event is held in the Memorial Park from 11am to 5pm. Everyone is welcome. There is free parking and free entry for under 15s and pensioners. Entry for adults is £2. v For more details, log on to sandhurstdonkeyderby.weebly. com.

v Fairy tales are made of strawmen BEENHAM – A West Berkshire village is looking forward to plenty of Once Upon A Time as it gears up to present a scarecrow festival. Running from Monday, July 7 to Sunday, July 13, front gardens and lawns will be bird-free as the strawmen are put on the display. The theme this year is Traditional Fairy Tales and each entry will be judged. The village welcomes visitors to see the inventive tableaux.

v Best things in life really are free READING – A family fun day taking place later this month proves the old adage right – the best things in life are free. Argyle Community Church in Argyle Street is hosting the community event, which takes place on Saturday, July 19. Fun includes a visit from Cookie The Clown, live music, face painting and free food and drinks. It starts at noon and continues until 3pm. Everyone is welcome. v For more details, log on to argylecommmunitychurch.com

v Sizzling barbecue WOKINGHAM – Sausages will be sizzling when a barbecue is lit later this month. St Paul’s Church in Reading Road is organising the event for Sunday, July 20. Starting at 1pm and running until 3pm, entry costs £10 or £5 for children under 12. v For more details, log on to www.stpauls-wokingham.org.uk.

culture

Have your say on town’s culture

f you’ve ever said there’s nothing to do in Reading, now’s your chance to change it. A new survey has been launched, giving everyone in the Borough a chance to have their say about arts, heritage and sport in the area. Organised by Reading Borough Council and some of its partners, the simple survey asks people what culture means to them, how they participate in Reading’s artistic life and if they visit museums or take part in sport. It can be completed online at www.reading.gov.uk/ yoursay or by completing cards which are being distributed across town. The survey’s results will help develop a strategy that will grow the town’s arts, heritage and sport. It will be developed in partnership with Reading UK CIC, Reading College and creative arts charity, Jelly. The consultation runs until September 30.

JOIN THE HAVE YOUR SAY LAUNCH WITH OUR EXCLUSIVE VIDEO REPORT ONLINE Paul Gittings, Lead Councillor for Culture, Sport and Consumer Services at Reading Borough Council, said: “We have fantastic culture and we want to expand it and we want to involve local people. [These responses] will create our vision for the next number of years.”

Nigel HortonBaker, executive director of Reading UK CIC, said: “We’re looking for people in Reading to have their say about arts and culture. “We’re looking for new ideas and build on what we already have.”

opera IT’S one of the greatest love stories of all time – and this summer it’s being staged in Sindlesham. Local opera company Opera At Bearwood will perform Gounod’s rarely-performed version of Shakespeare’s tale. “Gounod’s score is crammed with sumptuous melodies and thrilling ensembles; France’s worthy musical partner to our

If music is the food of love greatest playwright,” said Opera at Bearwood’s spokesperson David Saunders. Opera At Bearwood invites the audience to picnic ‘Glyndebournestyle’ in the grounds of Bearwood College before curtain up. It will be performed at 7.30pm from Tuesday, July 8 through

needlework

No dropped stitches here AN MBE with a penchant for embroidery is preparing for a sale of work for a very good cause. Rita Gulliver MBE will sell a range of her framed embroidered pictures on Saturday, July 19 from 10.30am to 3.30pm at the Bader Room, The Oakwood Centre, Headley Road, Woodley RG5 4JZ. Proceeds from the sale will go to Helen & Douglas House hospice for children and young

adults with life-shortening conditions. They provide respite breaks, end-of-life care and post bereavement support for 360 families a year, in Berkshire and surrounding areas. Refreshments will be available at the centre’s cafe.

to Saturday, July 12. A matinee performance is held at 2.30pm on Saturday. Tiered seating tickets cost £16, £19.50 or £22, a £2 concession is available for some performances. v For details or tickets, call 07826 518853 or e-mail boxoffice@ operaatbearwood.org.uk.

en “Xn Magazine has be ers a real hit with custom rtise & staff alike. To adve in a publication that rt writes for and is a pa a of the community is our great ethos and fit to business.” Daniel Carr rs Warings Master Bake

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| www.xnmedia.co.uk | July/August 2014

art

v Shakespeare in the big outdoors CAVERSHAM – One of Reading’s annual traditions is returning this month. The Progress Theatre will be performing Love’s Labour’s Lost... and Won for its open air Shakespeare season. The comedy, packed with wit and romance, pits the sexes against each other in a battle for supremacy in the game of love. The season runs from July 1626 at Caversham Court Gardens. Tickets are £15 or £13 for concessions. v To book or for more details, log on to www.progresstheatre.co.uk.

v Hear the sound of the New World John Nike presents last year’s Best in Show prize to Liz Seward for her work Jae Jae, pictured inset. The Wokingham Art Society show returns to the town later this month.

Talented artists prepare for show ARTISTS in Wokingham are brushing up on their brush strokes, casting pots till their eyes glaze over and linking up exquisite jewellery in preparation for a major new exhibition. Members of the Wokingham Art Society will be showcasing their very best work over two weeks this summer at the Wokingham and District Art Exhibition. The display will feature a range of watercolours, sketches, ceramics and jewellery all created by local people. As well as being on sale, there will be a chance for visitors to vote for their favourite pieces with

prizes awarded to the winning artists. The Society also encourages youngsters to showcase their works, with a dedicated display to work by children. The exhibition is open daily from Saturday, July 26 to Saturday, August 9. Doors open at 10am and close at 5pm, apart from Thursdays, when the display will stay open until 8pm. It will be held in St Paul’s Parish Rooms in Reading Road, Wokingham. Refreshments, including fairly traded tea and coffee and homemade cakes and scones will be

served by members and friends of St Paul’s Church and St Nicholas’s Church. v The Society holds regular meetings on the third Tuesday evening of the month at Wokingham Methodist Church. It will welcome Max Hale on Tuesday, August 19. He will talk about figures on beach in watermixable oils. Then on September 16, Sue Ellen Wilder will give a demonstration on flowers in watercolour. Entry to a sessions is £4 and includes refreshments. They start at 7.30pm. There is no July meeting. v For more details, log on to wokinghamartsociety.org.uk.

drama

festival

Enjoy afternoon tea with Noel

Five days packed with fun

ONE of the wittiest songwriters of all time will be celebrated with an afterrnoon tea party. Noel Coward, famous for writing the play Private Lives, will be brought back to life for the session which will be held at Christ Church Centre in Henley on Friday, July 25. Starting at 3pm, the event includes songs and a scene from Private Lives, all performed by Ken Fitt. There will also be food to enjoy. Tickets cost £13 and are available from the centre office. v For more information, log on to christchurchhenley.org.uk.

READING’S Fringe Festival is preparing for a triumphant return, with more acts and variety than ever before. Running from Wednesday, July 16 to Sunday, July 20, the festival features a wide range of arts and activities in wide range of venues. Highlights include a walking tour of Reading’s town centre. Led by Will Guppy from Quite Nice Theatre, the stroll through history will help contextualise the town. There are two walks that start from the Lion in Forbury Gardens from 11am and 2pm on Saturday, July 19. Impromptu Shakespeare, which

will be performed at South Street Arts Centre on Saturday, July 19 and Jelly on Sunday, July 20, will see a Bard-inspired improvised play performed for the first time before your eyes. Another improvisation will come from Upstairs Downton: The Improvised Episode. The play, again at South Street Arts on Saturday and Jelly on Sunday, is loosely based on the popular TV period dramas ... but the plot comes from the audience’s suggestions. v For more details and the full programme, log on to www. readingfringefestival.co.uk

CROWTHORNE – The Old Gym at Wellington College is to be the venue for Crowthorne Symphony Orchestra’s summer concert. The programme includes Weber Der Freischutz’s overture, Warsaw Concerto by Richard Addinsell, Prokofiev’s Piano Concerto No. 1, and Dvorak New World Symphony. The concert takes place on Saturday, July 12 from 7.30pm. Tickets cost £10 in advance, £12 on door, with under 16s free. They can be bought from Traveltime travel agents office in the High Street, Crowthorne or Bookends in Peach Street, Wokingham. v For more details, log on to: www. crowthorneorchestra.com.

v Mencap concert UPPER BASILDON – Vivace Voices Choir’s next concert takesp lace on Wedneday, July 16 from 2.30pm. Held at St Stephen’s Church, Pangbourne Road, the programme will include songs from West Side Story. Entry is £3 and all proceeds to Wokingham, Bracknell and District Mencap. v For more details, log on to: www. vivacevoices.org.uk.

v Hear the South Berkshire Singers WOKINGHAM – The South Berkshire Singers and guests invite you to their summer concert on Saturday, July 12. Held at St Paul’s Church in Reading Road from 7.30pm, the event includes Rossini’s Petite Mess Solennelle and other works. All proceeds will go to Daisy’s Dream and the NSPCC. v For more details, visit www. southberkshiresingers.com

LEISURE

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Moviewatch

Cinema with Martin Ceaser

Codewords

SOLUTIONS

4 1 5 8 6 2 3 7 9 8 6 3 7 4 9 2 1 5 3 2 6 1 7 8 9 5 4 1 8 4 5 9 6 7 3 2 5 9 7 2 3 4 1 8 6 1 2 2 5 3 1 4 4 5 4 3 5 7 3 6 2 9 8 8 9 6 3 2 1 5 4 7 6 4 5 3 2 6 8 7

Str8ts Str8ts Solution

4 8 6 9 7 2 1 5 3

5 3 6 9 7 7 8 7 8 6 8 6 9 1 4 5 3 3 4 2 2

Suduku Sudoku Solution

9 7 2 3 1 5 6 4 8

7 4 9 6 5 1 8 2 3

2 5 1 9 8 3 4 6 7

6 3 8 4 2 7 5 9 1

Kakuro

v Jersey Boys (15)

Stars Christopher Walken, John Lloyd Young, Vincent Piazza, Angelo DeCarlo, Kathrine Narducci

need to start with a confession – going to see this movie was pure selfindulgence on my part as I love the music of this era, and was a little concerned that I might start singing along and John Lloyd Young (Frankie Valli), Erich Bergen (Bob Gaudio), Vincent Piazza embarrass myself. (Tommy DeVito), and Michael Lomenda (Nick Massi) star as the Jersey Boys Based on the hit Broadway and West End Musical of the same name, Jersey Boys tells the story of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons, and in particular the “story behind the revolves around the break-up played their respective parts – songs”. of Frankie’s marriage, and the John Lloyd Young as Frankie Valli; Directed by Clint Eastwood, rebellion of his daughter Francine Vincent Piazza as Tommy DeVito there is only one recognised movie – leading to her untimely demise, (lead guitarist); Michael Lamenda actor in a lead part – Christopher set to the backdrop of My Eyes as Bassist Nick Massi; and Erich Walken, as Mob boss Gyp deCarlo. Adored You, Frankie’s song to her Bergen as composer and pianist The rest are unknown to the silver when she was younger. Bob Gaudio. screen, but the four leads all come On the way out I overheard a Because of this we see the from the musical where they lady saying, “You forget how good characters clearly, with no

Oh, what a film!

previous form to clutter up our minds. The film begins like the musical – Tommy narrating. He tells us that there are three ways to get out of the neighbourhood – join the army, and probably die, get “Mobbed up” and probably die, or become famous. The band, he says, did two out of the three. I find myself deeply moved by the story – all we hear is that these people are rich and famous, but the reality is far different. Here we see the struggle to get a band together; we see friendships formed, tested, strengthened and broken, and finally formed once again. We see the real, human side of the lead characters as they struggle to make ends meet, not always honestly, as they never quite escape the grasp of the Mob, and as tensions arise in the band even as the hits start rolling in. And what hits! Sherry, Walk Like A Man, Big Girls Don’t Cry, Can’t Take My Eyes Off Of you – and yes, they do sound like the Four Seasons, and no, they didn’t mime. The most moving, and heartbreaking, part of the story

the songs are” – she’s right, and she’s wrong. The Jersey Boys gave us some fabulous, upbeat and summery songs that remain in the consciousness. The film reveals the struggles and hardships, relationships and suffering that formed those very songs, as well as the joys. If nothing else, Jersey Boys is a timely reminder to the X Factor generation that fame is not something that just falls into your lap. You have to make sacrifices for it … and, ultimately, it’s not the be all and end all, nor is it the answer to all our questions. The last words go to Frankie himself – when asked about what was the best bit of it all, he said that it was when they were just four guys, standing under a lamppost and singing together. Not the fame, not the adulation, not the money, but the time when they were really good friends. Maybe we should ask ourselves, “What really matters?” Maybe we, like they, need to go back to the start?

The Revd Martin Ceaser is minister of Crowthorne Baptist Church

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