Xn June 2013

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For you, your community, your life

SUMMER FUN Hundreds of brilliant events taking place on your doorstep

STOPS PRESS

Jazz and flowers will help organ donations

LOCAL & LIVE Bands and choirs ready for June gigs

Linvoy helps league mark silver anniversary

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Henley, Reading & Wokingham districts June 2013

Thames Valley region ISSN 2049-4971

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NEWS

June 2013 | www.xnmedia.co.uk | To advertise call 01932 888417

v Aglow visitor A NATIONAL leader will be making a visit to Southcote later this month.

Georgina Danso is the national prayer co-ordinator of Aglow International, a meeting place for women.

She will be the guest speaker at the Reading group’s evening, at Southcote Mission on Monday, June 17.

Starting at 7.15pm, she will speak on the topic of God’s Goodness and Faithfulness.

The evening costs £3 and includes light refreshments. v www.readingaglow.org.uk.

v Lent donation THE work of a drop-in centre for vulnerable people has been boosted by kind-hearted members of a Sonning Common church.

CIRDIC – the Churches In Reading Drop-In Centre – received £225 plus donations of clothes and food from members of St Michael’s Catholic Church in Peppard Road. The money was raised in the run-up to Easter.

Heaven comes to The Pavilion

BY STEVE CURTIS

A CONFERENCE that aims to bring a touch of heaven to Reading’s streets is preparing for a return visit later this month.

After a successful launch event last year, Touching Heaven Changing Earth will be held at the the newly refurbished Pavillion building in Oxford Road from Friday, June 7 to Saturday, June 8.

As well as addresses from local community leaders, there will be sessions led by Alan Scott.

The pastor planted Causeway Coast Vineyard church with his wife Kathryn in 1999, and the church has since seen massive growth in attendance.

Organisers say that his ministry is closely linked to signs and wonders and miracles of healing and he is well worth coming along to hear.

The conference starts with an evening celebration on

A moment from last year’s Touching Heaven event Picture: Lynda Bowyer Friday, followed by a day of teaching and celebrations on the Saturday. Organisers have high expectations for the event and the opportunities it will present.

Yinka Oyekan, pastor of Reading Community Church said: “We are really excited about being able to hold this event.

“This is an opportunity for people to come along and meet with God, it is a chance for them to have a refreshing time with God.” The Pavilion – which is home to LifeSpring church – opened earlier this year. Based in what was Riley’s Snooker Hall, the name harks back to its days as a theatre.

Yinka said: “We are all excited that the Pavilion will be hosting. We’re thrilled. It’s in the centre of Reading.”

LifeSpring’s pastor, Nev Hollands, is also pleased that the Pavilion is being pressed into action for the conference.

“We’re looking forward to welcoming people,” he said.

“It’s going to be a great couple of days.”

The Conference is being hosted by a number of churches across Reading and supported by the Barnabas Fellowship of Churches and Reading Christian Network.

Network Vineyard, LifeSpring, The Globe, St Agnes, Reading Community Church and The Well have also helped to arrange the event.

Entry for the conference is £25, with under fours getting in free, children aged 4-11 paying £10 and those aged 12-15 paying £15. A concession rate for the unemployed, elderly and students is £15. v To book or for more details, log on to www.thce.co.uk.

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This month American voices This is your magazine Contact us with your stories, it’s really easy: email editor@xnmedia.co.uk write to Xn Media, c/o Abbey Baptist Church, Abbey Square, Reading RG1 3BE. We look forward to hearing from you!

Xn is published by Xn Media.

ISSN 2049-4971 c/o Abbey Baptist Church, Abbey Square, Reading RG1 3BE www.xnmedia.co.uk Twitter: @xnmedia

Elisabeth’s big night 29

Barbecue summer 27 Get REAL

Editor & publisher Phil Creighton editor@xnmedia.co.uk Distribution Judith Creighton judith@xnmedia.co.uk Contributors Steve Curtis, Lynda Bowyer, Michael Penny, Steve Vaughan-Turner, Sally Hamblin, Steve Prince, James Hern, Chris Barltrop, Sharon Elliott, Martin Ceasar Thanks to Quench, Michael Penny, Alan Magness, Louise Cole, Mary Brockington, Paul Burnish, Nick Crowder, Lynne Colman, Malc Pierce, Colin Livingstone, Richard Becher, Naomi Mahmud, Vernon Orr, Barry Kirk, Sylvia Newbury Advertising Hinton Media Services Ltd 01932 888417 advertising@xnmedia.co.uk 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, 2013

Lynn the leader

Phil Creighton ‘ For a bibliophile, to be surrounded by books is a wonderful thing!’

From the editor

I

LOVE books. There’s something about them that has always captivated my imagination.

You can’t beat the feeling of opening one for the first time, breathing in the smell of the ink on the paper, glancing down at the contents page and then having a sneak peek at the ending…

A large part of my childhood was spent reading anything.

I had a suitcase stuffed full of old comics (how I wish I’d kept it now!). Every shelf on my bookcase was filled with annuals, paperbacks and more. Now, there are several crates in the loft waiting for the day when I have space for a library.

So, it’s with joy that we can report that Xn has moved into a bookshop! We are now working from Quench’s Reading branch (see page 7 for more).

For a bibliophile, coming in every day and being surrounded by books is a wonderful thing. Especially as they have a fantastic secondhand section. Do come in and say hello.

Who knows, you might even come away with some bargains as well as the latest copy of your favourite monthly magazine! editor@xnmedia.co.uk

Space and time

Egg and soldier Contents

4 The main event 6 News 14 Business 16 News focus 18 Family circle 20 What’s on Three pages of community events 23 Trades directory 24 Sport Including the latest from Reading FC 26 Food Change your diet to deal with stress 27 Ethical shopping Brilliant buys to help the planet 28 Puzzles 29 Arts New plays, concerts and films

Get in touch! email stories to editor@xnmedia.co.uk Deadline for July issue Noon, Friday, June 21

the main event

4

We are the

Royals Linvoy returns to help league celebrate its silver anniversary PICTURES: LYNDA BOWYER

Saturday, May 18 saw the end of arguably the most exciting (and wettest) season of the Thames Valley Churches Football League (TVCFL) in 25 years – the award of every trophy went right down to the wire.

As part of the league’s silver anniversary, a special end of season celebration event was held at Wycliffe Baptist Church in East Reading in the evening.

Guest speaker was the former Charlton, Barnet, Reading and Portsmouth footballer Linvoy Primus who shared stories from his career, his faith and current work with Faith & Football.

He also signed copies of his book and handed out awards.

League Championship WINNERS: West Reading CFC West Reading CFC secured their first league title for the first time in 25 attempts!

Runners-up: Tilehurst Albion Defending champions Tilehurst

Winners: Kerith Community Church Runners-up: St Pauls, Ealing

Jamie has scored 52 goals this season in league and cup contests.

He has also featured in all but one game this season, with only one player appearing in more.

That West Reading secured their first league title was in no small part down to his performances.

Runner-up: Ben Findlay, Kerith Community Church Ben was nominated for his commitment, playing in every match this season and scoring more goals than any other player in the league and cup combined.

Ben has scored 54 goals at an average of 2.7 goals per game, with a highest single-match haul of six.

Colin Lowery Trophy

Golden Boot

Winners: South Ealing & Brentford Runners-up: Reading Saints

Awarded to the top goal scorer in the league competition Winner: Ben Findlay, Kerith Community Church, 42 league goals Runner-Up: Jamie Carstairs, West Reading CFC, 41 league goals

Albion finished second after a last day victory over rivals Kerith Community Church

Fair Play League Teams are awarded points by referees after each game against a criteria based around attitude, fair play and language. Managers are also required to mark their own team on the same basis.

Winners: Reading Saints and Greyfriars FC Runner-up: West Reading CFC Reserves

Philmar Cup

Player of the Season As voted for by league managers Winner: Jamie Carstairs, West Reading CFC

FIND OUT HOW THE SEASON ENDED WITH OUR ROUND-UP ON PAGES 24-25

the main event

champions!

To advertise call 01932 888417 | www.xnmedia.co.uk | June 2013

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News

June 2013 | www.xnmedia.co.uk | To advertise call 01932 888417

v Tea and company THE kettle is being put on and the best china is being brought out for elderly visitors who want to enjoy some rich tea and company.

Network Vineyard’s Crowthorne campus is gearing up to welcome seniors for an afternoon of friendship at its forthcoming Out To Tea afternoon.

The relaxed and informal afternoon will give guests the chance to talk and make new friends.

It will be held at Woodmancote in Crowthorne on Saturday, June 8. v For details, call Network Vineyard on (01344) 780087.

v Village party A VILLAGE is gathering together to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Queen’s Coronation Day. Douai Playing Fields in Woolhampton will be pressed into action for the right royal party, which will take place on Sunday, June 2.

Starting at 11am with a Coronation Songs of Praise, the fun continues from noon with a hog roast, barbecue, bar and a bouncy castle.

Then, from 1pm, a range of sporting events will be held including cricket, tennis and human table football.

Then at 4.30pm, there will be a raffle and an auction.

All money raised from the grand day out will go towards a renovation fund for the village’s Pavilion.

v HMRC prayers Reading@Work is teaming up with Christians in Government UK and HMRC Sapphire Plaza Christian Union for a event to be held during a Week of Prayer for Government.

The groups will meet together on Thursday, June 27 at 12.30pm at the HMRC base in Sapphire Plaza, Reading.

Organisers are inviting people from central and local government departments to come along. v For details or to confirm your attendance, email magnus@readingatwork.org.

Payday debts are ‘bigger than monthly salaries’

v New friendship group launches

BY PHIL CREIGHTON RESEARCH by a debt charity has revealed that the average amount owed on payday loans is more than the loanee’s monthly salary.

“The average amount owed on payday loans

by StepChange Debt Charity clients (£1,657) is more than their monthly take home pay of £1,320,” said Delroy Corinaldi, director of external affairs for StepChange Debt Charity.

Now the charity is calling on the Consumer Finance Association to take action before problems get even worse.

“The Office of Fair Trading (OFT) uncovered widespread evidence of irresponsible lending,” Delroy added. “The CFA must now show that it is prepared to match its rhetoric on addressing these failings with strong actions targeting those lenders who fail to adhere to industry codes of practice.”

Payday loans work by offering quick cash for large interest rates. As we went to press, a £200 loan from market leader Wonga.com would incur fees of £66.31 if paid back over 30 days – an interest rate of 4214% APR. Companies such as Wonga insist they offer responsible lending.

“Wonga doesn't endlessly roll your balance ... we will only approve limited extensions when we feel it is in your best interest,” says information on its website.

However, there are alternatives to the loans, including the Berkshire-based credit union Community Savings and Loans. It has offices in London Street, Reading and drop-in surgeries across the county, including Wokingham.

It says on its website: “We will beat any Payday Loans or equivalent.”

And for those who are trapped in a cycle of debt or struggling with their increased payday loans, Christians Against Poverty (CAP) offers a range of free courses.

The charity runs everything from help with budgeting to offering a kind of bank account, offering support until you are debt free.

Jo Kay, from the Reading East CAP Centre, said: “Payday loans are advertised as simple, fast solutions to the problem that many people experience in managing their money between ‘paydays’, be that benefits or wages.

“The problem is that high levels of interest are often applied which can make it extremely hard for customers to pay the money back before further charges are added.

“It is easy to get stuck in a loop of needing another loan to pay off the first, and so begins a spiral of ever-increasing debt.

“The good news is that by partnering with CAP, local churches can offer hope and a solution to anyone with unmanageable debt problems, whatever type of debt is involved.”

Caseworkers from CAP can visit clients in their homes and can negotiate a realistic repayment plan with the creditors. CAP and the local, partner church continue to provide all the necessary help and support until the client is debt-free v For more information about CAP’s services, visit capuk.org or call free on 0800 328 0006. v For more on the Berkshire Credit Union, log on to www.cslberks.org or call (0118) 958 5803.

A FRIENDLY group of people are looking for more friendly people to come and join its club.

The new Networking Christians In Reading is an internet-based group that organises a wide range of social events that anyone can go to.

Acivities organised include walks, picnics and bike rides to meeting up for live music events and drinks.

Group organiser Rachel Burton said: “Anyone who is up for meeting new people and having some fun along the way can join the group. It is largely aimed at young adults, but there is no age limit.”

Anyone who joins the group can suggest an event, which will be announced on the site.

Rachel added: “You could organise a football match, arrange a cultural visit or games night... whatever takes your fancy. Whether you’re by yourself or with a friend or small group, come along to an event and meet some new friendly faces.”

Events planned for June include a visit to Jagz nightclub in Ascot, a walk to Sonning, a cycle ride to Wallingford and a picnic. Previous activities have included a hot chocolate evening, a visit to Reading’s Global Café and a night at the Reading Beer Festival.

It is free to sign up and you can use your Facebook identity. v To sign up, log on to www. meetup.com/networkingchristians-in-reading.

School pastors in place

Community to benefit from plans

THERE are some new faces in the corridors of the Willink School in Burghfield Common, and they’re friendly.

School Pastors have come to the school, offering a listening ear to the school’s 1,000-plus students.

The scheme has been set up by TiM (Together In Mission) – a group of local churches who want to make a difference to their community.

A launch event was held at the school on Wednesday, May 1, and the Assistant Chief Constable of Thames Valley Police, Richard Bennett, attended.

He said: “I am very interested and excited by the idea.

I am sure that young people will appreciate the offer and availability of time to listen to caring adults who are not part of the school hierarchy or discipline arrangements.”

The school pastors were commissioned by the Rt Revd Andrew Proud, Bishop of Reading, at Burghfield’s May Fayre on Sunday, May 12. v www.togetherinmission.org.uk

BY STEVE CURTIS A CAVERSHAM church is looking to invest in the local community, thanks to a property sale.

Following its closure, the former home of North Caversham Baptist Church in Kidmore Road has been sold and its sister church, Caversham Baptist Church, is exploring ways in which it can use the capital in a way that will directly benefit the local community.

“Currently the church is in the process of discussing the various options available to us to make the most of the money we have been given from the sale,” says

the church’s minister, the Revd Rob Beardsley.

“We are now in the process of trying to establish a vision for the future. We could develop our own premises, or buy a shop; but it is more likely to be our own premises.”

The church has a desire to improve its existing facilities, as Rob explained: “We are currently at full capacity in certain areas of our work and ministry to the community.

“We may well use these funds to improve our existing facilities to make it more accessible and attractive to the local community and to provide more space for community use.”

News

To advertise call 01932 888417 | www.xnmedia.co.uk | June 2013

Thanks Xn!

XN is an award winner – and that’s official!

The Thames Valley Churches Football League presented Xn editor Phil Creighton with a special recognition award at its recent silver celebration.

The league wanted to thank Xn for its coverage over the past two seasons.

“I’m thrilled and touched to receive this award,” says Phil.

“Xn aims to support the community as much as possible.

We’re looking forward to next season.” v League round-up p24-25

Quench move refreshes your favourite magazine YOUR FAVOURITE monthly magazine now has a new home!

Local bookseller Quench has gifted Xn with some office space in its Reading branch, giving the magazine its first home since it launched in January last year.

This issue has been produced from the new office, which is based in London Street, Reading.

A redecoration and refurbishment programme in the Reading branch has created the space for Xn to work from – and the store has more space for its exciting range of books, CDs, DVDs, cards and more.

It also has a brilliant new second hand book section that has proved to be popular with customers.

“We are very grateful to Quench for their generosity – this is brilliant for us,” said Xn editor Phil Creighton. “Since we launched Xn, we have been working from kitchen tables, out of churches and in coffee shops.

“To have a place we can call home is fantastic.”

Phil plans to work from the Reading branch during the week and invites you to pop in. “Come in and say hello – and have a browse at the same time,” he said.

Greg Hassell, Quench’s head of retail, said: “Having Phil working from our Reading

Xn editor Phil Creighton and Greg Beardsley from Quench celebrate the new team-up store is great and is one step towards helping us to re-connect with the Christian community in Reading.

“Quench is now officially a charity and the shop has a fantastic new team and a new look, so why not pop into your local Christian bookshop for a browse or chat.

“We’d love to see you.”

Quench also has branches in Holme Grange shopping village in Wokingham, Slough and Maidenhead and an online bookstore at quenchshops.com.

Did you CRE us?

MORE THAN 10,000 people visited last month’s Christian Resources Exhibition at Esher – and popped by to say hello at Xn’s stand.

Thousands of copies of your favourite good news magazine were handed out over the fourday exhibition, along with sister title The Baptist.

“It was fantastic meeting readers,” said editor Phil Creighton. “People love what we’re doing.”

Phil is pictured with Fiona Hinton, Xn’s advertising manager.

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Take care!

Make the most of life with Philip Keohane

Care for the Carers When you’re caring for someone with dementia, it can be all too easy to ignore your own needs and to forget that you matter too. The importance of looking after your own health and well-being is vital to help you cope. So, here are some tips on how to do this:

Make time for yourself

Make sure you have some regular ‘me’ time to relax or do something just for you. Put aside some time each day to do things which are just for you. Also, get out every week or so to meet a friend, have your hair done, pursue an interest or take part in local activities. It is important to do something that you find enjoyable and that keeps you in contact with the outside world.

From time to time, book a regular break away. This will help you to recharge your batteries but the knowledge that you have a trip away planned and ‘in the bank’ so to speak will ease the daily routine.

Please remember there are plenty of options to support you in doing this without compromising the needs of the person you’re caring for. For example, organisations such as mine regularly provide short term care and support to enable family members to take a much needed break.

Look after your health and wellbeing

If you are someone’s main carer, it is critical that you look after yourself. Caring can be both physically and emotionally draining and you need to be healthy and happy if you are to manage it.

Try to eat a well-balanced diet, with regular daily portions of fruit and vegetables. This will make you feel better and give you more strength and energy. Taking regular exercise will not only give you more energy but will often be part of your own personal time to get out of the house for a short while.

Make sure you get enough sleep. If your sleep is frequently disturbed by the person you care for, talk to your doctor, social worker or community psychiatric nurse about it.

If you have to help the person move around, for example getting them in and out of bed or assisting with washing and bathing, make sure you don’t damage your back.

Ask your GP to refer you to a community physiotherapist for advice. Again, your ability to provide support is compromised if every time you go to help you feel a twinge in your back or legs.

Don’t neglect the psychological impact on you of what you are doing. It can become incredibly stressful for someone living in this type of environment. See your GP on a regular basis to check up on your own health. Make sure they are aware of any stress or problems you are experiencing.

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

8

News

June 2013 | www.xnmedia.co.uk | To advertise call 01932 888417

v Make Dad’s day DADS are being celebrated at a popular family centre later this month.

St Paul’s Play Barn in Whitley will be hosting a Father’s Day morning of fun for Dads and their under fives on Saturday, June 15.

Running between 10am and noon, the event includes crafts, games and bacon sandwiches.

New Prospects for Jonathan

v Information about Catholicism AN INFORMATION evening for those wanting to learn more about becoming a Catholic will be held next month.

The evening will also share more about being confirmed as adult.

It will take place at St James Presbytery in Forbury Road, Reading at 7.30pm on Wednesday, July 10. v For more details, log on to www.jameswilliam-reading. org.uk.

v Circus skills and family fun BEENHAM’S summer festival returns to the village on Saturday, June 29.

Starting at noon, the event will raise funds for the village primary school, pre-school and St Mary’s Church.

Fun includes circus skills and laughs from Furry Foot the Clown, a scarecrow competition and plenty of games. Cream teas, beers and barbecues will also be on offer.

It will take place on the village’s recreation ground and all are welcome.

v Corrections & clarifications LAST month, we mistakenly referred to SatCaf as taking place in All Saints Church Hall.

It should have said Argyle Community Church, which is the correct and regular venue for the popular Saturday meeting place.

Apologies for any confusion caused. v if you spot an error, please email editor@xnmedia.co.uk.

A charity that helps those with learning difficulties has appointed its first Executive Ambassador.

Reading-based Prospects has announced that the Revd Jonathan Edwards, the former General Secretary of the Baptist Union of Great Britain (BUGB), will take on the role of Executive Ambassador, having held the post of Ambassador for the past two years.

The new role will include helping to enhance the profile of the organisation.

Jonathan said: “Ever since I first heard of Prospects about 20 years ago, I have been thrilled to hear of its vital ministry.

“Anyone who loves the Gospel must love the work of Prospects, as we seek to show the love of Christ to those with learning difficulties.

“It will be an absolute pleasure to work for Prospects.”

Prospects’ CEO, Paul Ashton, adds: “We are excited about this new appointment. I am convinced that his gifts and experience will help us as we seek to take Prospects forward.” v For more, visit www.prospects.org.uk

Wokingham pastor to take charge of denomination

Lynn to lead Baptists

BY STEVE CURTIS THERE’S a new sheriff in town who goes by the name of Lynn.

The Baptist Union of Great Britain (BUGB) has announced that the Revd Lynn Green will take up the role of its General Secretary from September.

The post will see her lead almost 2,200 churches across the British Isles.

She takes over from the Revd Jonathan Edwards who left after a restructing of the denomination’s national resource centre in Didcot (see above).

BUGB’s

moderator of trustees Jenny Royal said: “This is an exciting appointment for the Baptist Union at this time in our life. As a Union, we have seen great change in our structures, refocusing our work for effective mission and supporting one another as Baptists together.

“We believe that God led us to appoint Lynn to take up this role and guide us at this strategic time.”

Lynn, 48, currently holds the position of Regional Minister with the Southern Counties Baptist Association team and attends Wokingham Baptist Church.

v Beach comes to Berkeley Avenue BEACH TOWELS are needed if you want to come to a party.

All Nations Christian Centre in Berkeley Avenue, Reading is converting itself into a tropical paradise for a special ladies’ only event on Saturday, June 9.

Starting at 7.15pm, the fun

evening will also include a talk

by Vicky Taylor from Free Range Chicks. Entry is £5 or £7.50 if you bring a guest. v For details, call Jenny Stent on (0118) 950 5661, log on to allnationselim.org or visit www.freerangechicks.net.

She said: “My vision is to see our vision and values become reality. Through the ‘Futures’ process we have clarified our vision to be ‘Growing healthy churches in relationship for mission’. I want to harness the energy generated by the ‘Futures’ discussions and turn it into action!”

Jonathan Edwards, the outgoing General Secretary, said: “I am thrilled that the Baptist Union has recognised Lynn as General Secretary.

“I urge the Baptist family to pray for Lynn and to give her all the love and support that I have been privileged to experience for the past seven years.”

Get ready to celebrate the best of Britain

A summer celebration really will be the Best of British.

Binfield Parish Council is inviting everyone to a celebration of this island’s brightest and best for its annual Party On The Field later this month.

As well as a bar, barbecue, dancing and country games, there will be the finals of a number of competitions.

The council has organised a bake-off for under 16s, a fancy dress contest for ages 3-12 and a photography contest for all ages.

Budding snappers should have their entries submitted to the parish office by Wednesday, June 12.

Pictures should be no bigger than A4 and have contact details on the reverse.

First prize is a professionally framed photograph and a voucher, while all winning entries will go on display in V&A Traynors in Terrace Road South.

The Party On The Field will also include live music from Lost In Music, who performed at the village’s Golden Jubilee celebrations last year.

The fun takes place from 2.30pm-9pm at Foxley Fields on Saturday, June 15. v For more details, call the parish council on (01344) 454602 or log on to www. binfieldparishcouncil.org.uk.

v Mondays are good at Christ Church LOOKING for some friendship and refreshment?

Then why not pay a visit to Christ Church, Henley on Thames?

The church holds an open house every Monday from 11am.

Tea and coffee are available throughout and lunches are served from noon.

The church also holds a coffee morning on Fridays from 10.30am-noon. v For more details, log on to christchurchhenley.org.uk.

NEWS

To advertise call 01932 888417 | www.xnmedia.co.uk | June 2013

500,000 reliant on emergency food help Wokingham foodbank to launch as need increases

BY STEVE CURTIS AS A new study reveals that half a million people in the UK are reliant on food aid, a new foodbank is being launched in Wokingham.

Although last year the town was revealed to be one of the top places to live in the UK, there are still areas where there are people in need of help.

“Extensive research has revealed an opportunity for the Christian community in Wokingham, to respond to the immediate needs of local people in crisis by establishing a foodbank,” explains Andy Knight, Wokingham Methodist Church’s community development worker and the new Foodbank’s co-ordinator.

“This has the backing of Churches Together and the police, and will be launched under the auspices of the Trussell Trust.”

The scheme will offer short-term support to those in need, using a voucher-based system and plans are in place to launch in September.

Andy already has experience of foodbanks: he helped launch one in nearby Hart. He will explain more about that project at a special launch meeting which will be held in Wokingham Methodist Church on Monday, June 3, from 7.30pm.

Also present will be Lynda Owen-Hussey, the regional development officer for The Trussell Trust which has now opened 350 foodbanks across the country.

The launch comes as a new report, Walking The Breadline, was released. It revealed that the increase in the use of foodbanks has come about directly due to changes to the benefit system, unemployment, increasing levels of underemployment, low and falling income, and rising food and fuel prices.

The Trussell Trust, which

is the biggest provider of food banks in the UK, last month reported that more than 350,000 people turned to its food banks for help in the last year – almost triple the number who received food aid in the previous year.

This new report is warning that the actual figure receiving food aid could be more than 500,000, as there are many non-Trussell food banks, and hunger is not being monitored properly by the Government.

The Walking The Breadline report has been compiled by Church Action on Poverty and Oxfam, with the backing of the Trust. They are calling for an urgent Parliamentary Inquiry into the relationship between benefit delay, error or sanctions, welfare reform changes, and the growth of food poverty. They are also asking supporters to speak out in support of the call.

Mark Goldring, Oxfam’s CEO, said: “The shocking reality is that hundreds of thousands of people in the UK are also now reliant on food aid. Cuts to social security have gone too far, leading to destitution, hardship and hunger on a large scale.

“It is unacceptable that this is happening in the seventh wealthiest nation on the planet.”

Niall Cooper, Church Action on Poverty CEO and the report’s lead author, said: “The safety net that was there to protect people is being eroded to such an extent that we are seeing a rise in hunger. Food banks should not be replacing the ‘normal’ safety net provided by the state in the form of welfare support.” v Church Action on Poverty invites anyone concerned about this to visit www.churchpoverty.org.uk/foodfuelfinance.

The report is freely available to download, and a simple e-action will allow you to send a message to your MP in support of the call for a Parliamentary Inquiry.

v South Reading gets ready for an afternoon of FREE fun IT’S one of the biggest events in South Reading and it’s gearing up for a return.

Taking place on Saturday, July 13, the South Reading Churches’ Fun Day attracts more than 3,000 people.

And it’s no wonder as the afternoon includes everything from live music, food, bouncy castles and large inflatables, plus visits from Thames Valley

Police and Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service’s Whitley Wood Fire Station.

The afternoon is a partnership between the South Reading Churches, Reading Borough Council, local agencies that work in the community.

As usual everything is free, with the exception of ice cream, thanks to the

local businesses who, along with the churches and other benefactors, sponsor the event. Reading MPs Alok Sharma and Rob Wilson will be opening the proceedings.

It will be held from noon3pm at Rabson’s Recreation Ground, Northumberland Avenue. Everyone is welcome.

We’ll have more details next month.

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v Paddles up for a brighter future A GROUP of friends are planning an epic canoe ride to help make a better future for children.

Chris Poston, who heads up Creating Better Futures, and his friends will spend August Bank Holiday canoeing from Cricklade in Wiltshire

to Reading. The route is 82.8 miles and they will be camping en route.

The target is £5,000 to buy a vehicle the charity can send to Zimbabwe to help its work out there. v For details, log on to www. creatingbetterfutures.org.uk.

Helping you recover from emotional difficulties Still the Hunger is a Christian recovery programme for people suffering with emotional difficulties, such as depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and self harm.

It is open three times a week for group support, craft workshops and relaxation classes.

The Recovery Programme aims to build self-esteem within a supportive environment. By providing group support people are enabled to address deep issues as they gradually regain control of their lives.

Group discussions are spent looking at better ways of coping; understanding negative patterns of thinking and behaviour and how to overcome them.

Afternoon sessions are less intensive and are spent on creative activities and relaxation techniques.

This programme is all about enabling you to regain control of your life and to support you as you learn to walk in freedom. If you are committed to change, and willing to seriously address negative coping mechanisms, then this programme may be for you.

The Recovery Programme is open to both male and females, of any faith or none.

To find out more, or apply to join the Recovery Programme, please contact Beverley Hutton by calling her on 07733 300 705 or sending an email to info@stillthehunger.co.uk.

You can also log on to www.stillthehunger.co.uk.

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v Heroes walk MEN wanting to get back to nature can enjoy a day in the countryside when they take part in a walk and a barbecue.

A heroes walk is being organised for Saturday, June 29.

Starting by catching the 9.44am train from Reading Station to Goring, men can then walk to Pangbourne to enjoy lunch and then walk – or take the train – back to Reading.

The walk will be just over 12 miles and will burn up to 1,110 calories.

The planned route is reasonably flat and organisers are promising that no man will be left behind.

Then, in the evening there will be a barbecue to enjoy. v For more details, log on to www.allnationselim.org or call the church on (0118) 950 5661.

Church steps up

BY STEVE CURTIS A CHURCH in Theale has put in an appeal to create better access to the building.

Members of Holy Trinity Church celebrated the 180th birthday of the Grade One listed building last month, but there are fears that the steps that go into the building are dangerous.

English Heritage and various members of the parish council have looked at the building and agreed that action needs to be taken.

But, as the Revd Ann Templeman revealed: “There is no cheap solution to this.”

The appeal was kickstarted when 90-year-old Kathy Pearson died and asked friends and family to donate money in her memory to the fund.

Theale-based solicitor Tony Roe will work with Ann to

Members of Holy Trinity in Theale release balloons to mark Pentecost organise fundraising events.

Architecture and design company Broadway Malyan have agreed to work with the church on the developments, but have yet to return to the church with a set price.

Ann added: “This is a great community building.”

The church won’t carry out any further works until plans are put into place.

Put your faith in RE

Pupils and teachers say REINSPIRED lessons are “inspirational” and “amazing”.

Head teachers appreciate that “children have

the opportunity to engage with adults whose faith is central to their lives”.

Find out how we can help people from your churches build partnerships that last with local schools by bringing RE & collective worship to life. Give us a call on 0118 966 3929 or email office@reinspired.org.uk or come along to the Education Zone at the Christian Resources Exhibition in Esher from 14-17 May.

www.reinspired.org.uk

Churches Together in Earley and East Reading Schools Project registered charity no 1109291

80 ADULTS and children launched brightly coloured balloons with flame-like streamers over Theale to celebrate Pentecost last month.

The event was held at Holy Trinity Church,Theale on Sunday, May 19.

All the balloons floating through the sky had tags written by the children, explaining more about

Pentecost and God’s love.

The fun event was designed to mimic what happened at the first Pentecost – said to be the Church’s birthday – which took place nearly 2,000 years ago.

On that day, Jesus’ disciples received the gift of the Holy Spirit, and went out to the crowds in Jerusalem to tell them about Jesus.

Windows help us remember

Kangaroos and ferrets in town

A PERMANENT reminder of an old church has been installed into a Bracknell place of worship.

When St Margaret Clitherow Church in Bracknell was closed in 2011, stained glass windows were carefully removed and safely stored at its sister church, St Joseph’s.

Now, the town centre fellowship has incorporated the beautiful pieces of glassware into its building so future generations can admire the craftsmanship.

Two pieces are installed above the old organ loft, another in above the side door and one piece has been placed in the hall.

The church’s priest, Father Christopher Rutledge, said: “They look stunning in their new positions and are a wonderful reminder of the church of St Margaret Clitherow.”

FERRETS, clowns and kangaroos are coming to Woodley.

They are just some of the attractions for this year’s Woodley Carnival, which comes to town on Saturday, June 8.

The fun starts at noon with a procession that snakes all the way from St John’s Church to Haddon Drive.

The Carnival site in Memorial Ground also opens at noon and there will be displays from the Kangaroos Gymnastics team, as well as ferret racing and classic cars.

Churches Together Woodley will host a popular cream teas and refreshments tent with live music and performances from The Wide Mouthed and Stringless puppet team throughout the afternoon. v For more details, log on to www. woodleycarnival.org.uk.

50 glorious years in flowers and art COMMUNITY groups and pupils will work together to help a local resource celebrate its golden anniversary.

St Catherine of Siena in Tilehurst is 50 this year and is this month holding a combined art and flower festival.

Held on Saturday, June 1 and Sunday, June 2, the event will see local groups create some impressive floral

arrangements, while children from Birch Copse School will show off their artistic talents.

Entry is free, but donations to the church’s redevelopment project will be welcomed. The display is open from 10am-2pm on Saturday and 1pm-5pm on Sunday. It will be held in the church in Wittenham Avenue.

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JAC plants a stable environment

BY SHARON ELLIOTT JAC’s latest project is finally out of the box – but to spring into action next month, the charity needs your help.

Just Around the Corner (JAC) is in the early stages of building its Equine Assisted Learning facility at the new 14 acre site on the outskirts of Wokingham.

To complete it, the charity wants local craftspeople to pitch in and help raise the roof, the walls and the grounds.

Based on Forest Road, the new centre will offer a manège with associated works and a kitchen garden, which will all be used for training, therapy and learning opportunities for vulnerable young people.

It’s the perfect fit for the charity which is recognised for its work in encouraging young people to make positive choices.

Sam Milligan, Director of Just Around the Corner (JAC) preparing the site for the stable block at the new Equine Assisted Learning facility on the outskirts of Wokingham

“It is through the generosity of local benefactors, that we are here, but we are still looking for £25,000 for sponsorship of our riding school,” explains Sam Milligan, JAC’s director.

“Our plan is for the site to be operational from July, with the arrival of our four horses.

“That will be a fulfilling moment for the whole JAC team and all those who have supported us on this journey.”

Local people, in particular local carpenters and groundsmen, who are interested in assisting in any way with the building project are asked to contact JAC via email on info@jacoutreach.org or phoning (0118) 944 1444. v A new Facebook page giving full updates of the works can be found by searching for JAC stables.

Don’t listen to the band ... be in the band!

A READING-based commercial photographer is in the process of setting up a Winterguard Corps which it is hoped will compete in the national Winterguard UK (WGUK) show circuit.

Lynda Bowyer, a former drum corps percussionist at national and world-class level, is calling upon her experience and expertise to bring to the Home Counties a flavour of American showmanship and panache.

Named The Berkshire Royals, Lynda is hoping to train from scratch a Junior Guard class and is welcoming applications from girls and boys aged between 11 and 16 to learn the craft and work towards competing in the WGUK 2015 season.

Lynda said: “This means that we have around 18 months of preparation to teach the kids, piece together a show, fundraise for guard uniforms, do some local and

regional exhibitions to get the kids used to the performing in front of others.

“We aim to build on basic values such as having dreams, believing in ourselves (and each other) and through that, achieving. Most of all, its about having fun.

Without that, there’s nothing.

“This will be something unique which Berkshire has never had.

“Winterguard isn’t about ‘playing at being majorettes’ it’s a serious sport in the performing arts, which blends movement to music using various apparatus such as flags and sabres.

“Boys and girls of all ages compete in

this sport, and you really have to see it to believe it - it’s absolutely stunning to watch.”

The Berkshire Royals will also be looking for active parent volunteers to help out from time to time and are also seeking a Team Coach who can assist with the fitness and choreography.

Lynda added: “Ideally, I could do with someone who has dance experience, or ideally has marched in corps before.

“Alternatively, a heart that’s totally for the kids and willing to pitch in is equally valued and welcomed.” v If your child is interested in becoming a member of the Berkshire Royals or as a parent you can offer voluntary help or coaching, contact Lynda by email atberkshireroyals@outlook.com or visit www.facebook.com/TheBerkshireRoyals v www.wguk.org.uk

v Green for go GREEN fingered gardeners can enjoy all the colours of summer thanks to two churches.

A plant sale is being held at Sandhurst and Yateley Methodist Church on Saturday, June 9 from 10am to noon.

Then, on June 30, Crowthorne Methodist Church will welcome visitors who want to explore its gardens.

Hungry guests can also enjoy some cream teas and homemade cakes.

The gardens will be open from 2pm to 5pm, along with two others: Alderman’s Barrow’ 89a Ellis Road, Crowthorne, RG45 6PJ and ‘Appletrees’, 12 Brooker’s Corner, RG45 7DY. Money raised from the day will go towards the Thames Valley and Chiltern Air Ambulance.

v Crime prevention day AGEUK is organising a special crime prevention and home security evening.

The event is intended to alert the community about the services that are available to the elderly, services designed to give the elderly greater independence.

There will be a Thames Valley Police representative who will be focusing on crime prevention & home security.

The charity will take over Sonning Common’s village hall on Thursday, July 18 from 10am to 4pm.

v Fashion funds A FASHION show held at St Paul’s Church in Wokingham last month raised £754.73 for The Children’s Society.

Fun for little monkeys as Duggie Dug Dug returns LITTLE monkeys will be swinging from the rafters when they discover the fun in store at All Nations later this month.

Renowned entertainer Duggie Dug Dug will be swinging by the Reading-based church to present his popular Goes Wild Praise Party.

The evening includes songs,

puppets and live animals … and best of all it’s free.

Youngsters need to be accompanied by an adult for the event which takes place from 6pm-7.30pm on Friday, June 14. The church is in Berkeley Avenue, Reading.

To reserve a place, email your name and children’s ages to children@allnationselim.org.

v Duggie will be visiting Woodley Baptist Church on Sunday, July 21.

His Crazy Science Praise Party! features puppets, magic and more for under 12s.

Children must be accompanied.

Ticket cost £5 per family. v For details and tickets, email: office@woodleybc.org or call (0118) 969 9956.

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v Viva Espania for new meeting A SPANISH speaking church service has been launched by a Woodley church.

St John The Evangelist is hosting a monthly worship event for those who speak the European language.

Launched on Sunday, May 12, 42 adults and nine children came along to the event. A second service will be held on Sunday, June 30 and all are welcome.

v Tractor rides MEMBERS of the Bradfield, Bucklebury & Stanford Dingley Churches will be holding a special tractor ride this month.

They will be gathering at The Black Barn in Rushall Farm from 3.30pm on Sunday, June 2 to pray for the farmers, the land and for God’s hand over the communities around the farm.

There will also be opportunities to ride on a covered trailer and enjoy a tea afterwards.

v Make Dad’s day DADS are invited to a special Father’s Day service at St John The Baptist Church in Crowthorne this month.

Held on Sunday, June 16, the Waterloo Road church will welcome a performance of Jonah-Man Jazz, given by the junior choir, as well as a drama and more songs performed by the GLorEE Choir.

It starts at 10am and everyone is welcome.

The following Sunday, the chuch will hold its Patronal Festival at 10am. v Kerith Community Church in Bracknell is also holding special Father’s Day events.

It will hold a zoo in its car park after its morning services. In the evening, it wll host a Dad’s chill-out zone.

This takes place at Oakwood Youth Challenge and include a hog roast, live music, footy and loads of space to kick back and enjoy an evening with friends. v www.kerith.co.uk

Get ready to be REAL

v How parenting is an education

Women are invited to come together for two relaxing days at the REAL conference next month WOMEN are invited to get REAL and enjoy two relaxing days where they can laugh together, encourage one another and build up friendships.

Taking place in Kerith Community Church in Bracknell, REAL is a two-day conference with Kim McManus jetting in from Los Angeles to help lead sessions, alongside Kerith’s very own Catrina Benham and Abs Niblock from Life Church, Bradford.

The weekend will explore the power and pain of friendship and the idea that life is better when done hand-in-hand with others and with God.

Catrina said: “Wherever you are on your faith journey, whatever age or life stage, REAL is a place for you to discover what makes you unique.

“Through the welcome, teaching, worship and all of the fun bits, we believe that God will breathe life into you, the people in your world, and your circumstance.”

The weekend takes place on the evening of Friday, July 12 and during Saturday, July 13.

Tickets booked before June 23 cost £24. v For more details, log on to www.kerith.co.uk.

Café gives a safe space for recovering addicts A SAFE space for those recovering from drug and substance addiction has been created in Henley – and everyone is welcome to come along.

Towards Recovery is a café that meets in d:two, Market Place, on the last Thursday of the month.

Organisers say that the monthly sessions have been created as a response to the growing level of crime and drug dealing in the Henley area.

The café aims to provide support for those who are in recovery or have a desire to be in recovery. It has been founded by Huseyin Djemil, director of Green Apple Consulting, a specialist substance misuse consultancy.

Huseyin himself underwent residential rehabilitation for class A drug use between 1986 and 1988, and has worked in the drugs field since 1993. He launched the Henley

café last year.

“Life really does get better when you’re off drugs and in control of your own destiny,” he said.

As well as the open space, Towards Recovery also offers workshops and can put people in touch with the relevant services to help them as they work towards addiction recovery.

“While we are using the fantastic facilities at Henley Baptist Church, Towards Recovery is open to everyone,” Huseyin added.

Held in the evening, the centre is open to everyone and no appointment is necessary.

Visitors are welcome to bring along their friends and family and free refreshments are served. At each session, experts will be on hand to offer support, advice and encouragement to those looking to free themselves from substance abuse.

The next session runs on Thursday, June 27. July’s meeting will be on July 25, and the next one will be on August 29. Sessions run from 7.30pm-10pm in d:two, which is part of Henley Baptist Church. v For more, contact Huseyin on 07815 726471 or log on to www,towardsrecovery.co.uk.

A MUM who has journeyed through infertility, late motherhood and parenting a special needs child will be sharing her experiences when she comes to Reading later this month.

Veronica Zundel will be sharing her insights about love, sacrifice, faithfulness and forgiveness in a talk called Everything I Know About God I’ve Learned from Being a Parent.

Based on her book of the same name, the member of the Mennonite Church will explain how parenthood has had a profound impact on her understanding of what God feels about us, his children.

The free talk takes place at St Bartholomew’s Church, in St Bartholomew’s Road in East Reading, on Sunday, June 16 from 4pm.

All are welcome and refreshments will be served.

v Pamper night WOMEN in Finchampstead are invited to join together for a special weekend of pampering.

The Women Together In The Community event will be held at the FBC Centre in Finchampstead on Friday, June 14 and Saturday, June 15.

Starting with a dinner, events include craft, exercises sessions and a chance to enjoy some peace and quiet.

The Friday night meal costs £5 and will include a couple of women sharing their inspiring and encouraging life stories.

On Saturday, women can try out zumba or aerobics for free, in an afternoon of fun that runs from 1pm-4pm.

Events are suitable for ages 14 upwards. v For more details, or to book tickets for the dinner, log on to www.finchampstead.com.

v Marriage help A MARRIAGE Encounter weekend will take place at Wokefield Park over June 21-23.

The course is a chance for couples to spend some time reflecting on their marriages and help them grow stronger. v For more details, log on to wwme.org.uk.

Hymn, indoors

The Michael Robert Band performed in Reading as part of the UK Revival Hymns tour Pictures: Lynda Bowyer A REVIVAL took place in Reading last month – for one night only.

Michael Robert and his band brought their Revived Hymns tour to St Andrew’s URC in London Road. During the evening they performed their unique blend of favourite hymns set to new tunes as well as their own compositions.

Earlier in the day, Michael had led Reading church leaders in worship as they gathered for Reading Christian Network’s Wednesday morning prayer breakfast.

The Revd Richard Becher, who

organised the concert, was delighted with how it went.

He said: “It was a fantastic evening from a singer and his band who are committed

to sharing their faith through testimony and music. They pay their own air fares to travel from America and then trust God to provide for their needs through a ‘love offering’ during the concert and in the hospitality of local churches.

"We are grateful for the support of Xn magazine – many of the audience came because they saw it advertised in Xn. “We hope to bring Michael and his amazing band back to Reading and Marlow again next year.” v www.michaelrobertmusic.com

Enjoy a hog roast and a cream tea at open day AFTER a year off due to torrential rain, a popular local fun day is gearing up for a sunny return.

Yeldall Manor, a drug and alcohol rehabilitation centre in Hare Hatch, is making plans for its annual open day, a year after it was abandoned due to last year’s awful weather.

Taking place on Saturday, July 6, from 1.30pm, the afternoon will include fun for all the family.

It starts with a hog roast and ends with a cream tea, using strawberries donated by Gray’s Farm in Wokingham. In between there are opportunities to try traditional games including skittles, beat the goalie and a coconut shy.

Children can enjoy face-painting and a bouncy castle, while adults

will enjoy browsing the plant and book stalls.

Throughout the afternoon, drinks and ice-creams will be available and guests can bring a picnic if they wish.

Yeldall’s brother organisation, Chissock Woodcraft, will be showcasing the work that it has produced and, at 3pm, a celebration will be held in a specially-erected marquee.

The event is an opportunity to find out what has happened at the centre during the past 12 months.

"There will be praise to lift the roof and testimonies that will touch your heart, as well as time to remember and thank God for

Cream teas at Yeldall Manor Picture: Penny McLaughlin His faithfulness to us,” said Sue Hedger, Yeldall’s Supporter Relations Manager.

"We are trusting for better weather this year and a bumper turnout, as we know that many people really missed the opportunity to meet with residents and staff and each other.”

v Walkers brave hail and rain to help Yeldall save lives IT WAS billed as a walk for freedom ... but it ended up being a severe test that could save a life.

On Saturday, April 27, 31 people plus eight relay team members, trekked through rain, sun, wind and hail to get from central London to Yeldall Manor’s base in Hare Hatch, near Twyford.

“Their walk echoed

the journey made by our founders, Bill and Joanie Yoder who, in the mid 1970s, used to bring drug addicts back from central London to their Berkshire home,” said Sue Hedger, from Yeldall Manor.

Money raised from the day goes towards Yeldall’s Good Samaritan Bursary Fund, which supports residents who cannot

otherwise get funding to attend our rehabilitation programmes.

Former resident Ray, said, “Well done to all who took part. Believe it or not, you may have saved a life.

The Bursary Fund is like the golden ticket.”

Particpants in the walk included Paul Kelly, pictured, who works at Greyfriars Church in central Reading.

June 2013

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v Flower power marks 200th “Bracknell was proverbial for wickedness, previous to the introduction of the Gospel into it”.

That stark description is how the town was described by a church in its first minute book back in 1813.

Now, 200 years later, a hamlet that was once without a church is gearing up to celebrate a very special anniversary.

A Bracknell shoemaker, Mr Foster, held prayer meetings in his home, inviting a Baptist minister to speak. From these humble beginings, Bracknell’s first church was formed on July 5, 1813.

Over the past 200 years, many thing have changed – not least its location – but St Paul’s is still thriving. And to mark the birthday, you are invited to help it blow out its birthday candles.

A weekend of celebration is being held on July 5 and 6, including a flower festival, craft and cake stalls, games for children and a bouncy castle. A commemorative service will be taking place later in the year on September 15, at 3 pm.

“Come and join us for a fun weekend to mark this truly memorable occasion,” says a spokesperson for the church.

St Paul’s was once on Bracknell’s High Street, but now meets in Ralph’s Ride, Harmans Water. v For more details log on to bracknell.urc.org.uk.

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BUSINESS

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BUSINESS

Supporting the local economy together

Fall in for egg and a soldier Members of Curves hand over their donations of food to CCA staff

Major General Tim Cross will be speaking at a business breakfast to be held in the Hilton Hotel in Bracknell later this month

FANCY some egg and soldiers for breakfast? Well, not just any soldiers but a Major General.

A community and business leaders’ breakfast will be held in Bracknell later this month and the special guest speaker will be a retired army leader.

Organised by Kerith Community Church, the event takes place from 7am on Friday, June 28.

The event is an opportunity for those who are leading in the marketplace to network, talk and enjoy a full cooked breakfast as well as falling in for a pep talk from Major General Tim Cross.

The retired military man has commanded at every

level, from leading a small bomb disposal team in 1970s Northern Ireland to commanding a division of 30,000 men between 2004 and 2007.

He is now director of two international aid agencies, a visiting professor at three universities and a defence adviser to the House of Commons defence committee.

Places at the breakfast are limited to 70 and are on a first-come, first-served basis.

They cost £15 and include food – vegetarian options are available. v For more details, call Kerith on (01344) 862699 or visit the church’s reception.

Curves shows a softer side them to ReadiFood for regular food parcels.

NEW members of a West Reading fitness “In a time where benefits are being cut CCA club proved they were big-hearted when they is having to stretch its resources to meet the donated food to a community charity. increasing need and therefore need to work in Sandy Thompson, manager of Curves, which partnership with other organisations. offers women a 30-minute workout routine, “Thank you to Curves from CCA on behalf of agreed to eschew the joining fee for new clients our support centre and clients.” if they donated a bag of food to CCA. Donations are weighed and Curves collected just under 300lb worth during the appeal.

The fitness centre is based SKA band Sounds of Salvation next to Tesco Extra in Oxford will be funking up fundraising CCA’S new charity shop and when CCA hosts a party this Road and the donations have support centre on Wokingham month. been welcomed by CCA. Road, Reading should be open The band will perform Mireille Haviland, CCA’s as you read this. on Friday, June 21 at The relationship manager, said: Situated opposite Alfred Warehouse, Cumberland Road, “The food is for our support Sutton School, the new store East Reading. centre which give out food has been refurbished by Tickets cost £5 and can be to help families in crisis, volunteers, including members bought from CCA’s stores or which ensures that families of Reading Vineyard Church from Quench in London Road, don’t go hungry while we are and is now accepting your Reading. in the process of referring donations.

v Party with CCA

v Wokingham Road shop to open

v Recession and you

v Fishy networking

HOW has the recession affected you? That’s one of the topics up for discussion when a networking group meets next month.

Reading@Work will welcome Andrew Drury to its meeting on Thursday, July 4.

He will be exploring the theme What recession? - The physical, mental and spiritual impact.

Starting at 7.30pm, the event takes place at Bill’s restaurant in Chain Street, Reading. v To book a place or for more details, email dave@readingatwork.org.

A NETWORKING group for Wokingham businesses is up to something fishy.

Don’t worry, it’s all above board – members of The Real Business Club will gather in Loch Fyne’s Wokingham restaurant on Monday, June 10. The event takes place from 6pm to 8.30pm and costs £7.50 to include a drink and nibbles.

A Reading meeting will be held at RISC, London Street, on Wednesday, June 12 from 10am-12.30pm. v For more, visit therealbusinessclub. co.uk or call (0118) 968 0813 .

v

GOT an idea for a new business? The Family Business wants to help. Its next mentoring session takes place on Wednesday, June 12, at Workhouse Coffee, King Street, Reading. Visit thefamilybusiness.org.uk for more details.

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Famine or feast as rich men decide what to share Guests at a Rich Man Poor Man meal were shocked to discover that only one person on the table had enough to eat … until they decided to share their meal

A BANQUET with a difference helped highlight food injustice.

To mark Christian Aid Week, St Andrew’s Church in Caversham held a RIch Man/Poor Man supper.

At each table, there was one rich man. They were waited upon and had

lots to eat and a personal side table laden with more tasty treats to enjoy.

Other guests had rice – until the rich man decided he could share.

The Revd Nigel Jones, vicar of the church, said: “In fact the rich man had so much that if he chose to share there

was enough for everyone at his table.

And yum, was it scrummy – eventually, once the Rich Man finally twigged!”

“You can see the change this brought about in the photos, which were taken before and after sharing.

“The message, in line with this year’s

Want to beat food poverty?

Plant a flower & skip a meal

BY PHIL CREIGHTON IF YOU want to show you’re serious about combating global food poverty, go hungry.

As the UK gears up to host the G8 summit in Northern Ireland this month, the Enough Food For Everyone IF campaign is urging supporters to fast for a day, before attending a rally in London where they can plant flowers.

One in eight people in the world goes to bed hungry despite there being enough food for everyone. The campaign has been set up to call on G8 leaders to help the problem by bringing an end to corporate tax dodging in developing countries, preventing poor farmers being forced off their land and ending the crisis of malnutrition.

The call is for people to fast on Thursday, June 6 and take part in a rally on Saturday, June 8 in London. At the same time as the rally, David Cameron will be hosting a hunger summit in London, ahead of the G8 summit in Belfast on June 17.

So far, three bishops have signed up for the Big IF Fast, with more to come.

Jennifer Bennett, Christian Aid’s church campaigns officer said the fast was an opportunity to stand in solidarity with the world’s poor.

“To show just how hungry we are for action at the G8 we will be making this issue personal by giving up something we depend on. This is about more than names on a petition, we’re putting our bodies on the line,’ she said.

“We’re fortunate enough to be able to choose to give up food but the 870 million people that

suffer from hunger don’t have that luxury.

“We’re urging individuals, families, churches and community groups to get involved and make a stand.”

Thousands of people are expected to join the rally in London on June 8. Plans include planting a field of flowers with 2 million petals – each representing the 2 million children who die from hunger every year.

Thousands of volunteers will have been working to plant a quarter of a million flowers in the shape of an enormous cooking pot, held by human hands.

Partcipants on the rally can bring their own flowers and plant them in the empty space.

An IF Café will give participants the chance to meet Gruffalo illustrator Axel Scheffler, learn how to make a hat or a kite and listen to story-tellers.

Then, in the afternoon, there will be a rally in Hyde Park from 2pm.

A church service will be held at Westminster Central Hall from 11.30am, ahead of the procession to Hyde Park. v Coaches are being laid on to take people to London. For more details, log on to www. enoughfoodif.org/transport. v To register your Big IF Fast and find out more including a fasting guide and worship resources, visit www.enoughfoodif.org/ifast

IF campaign, was that there is enough food in the world for us all.”

There was also a poverty quiz and a few short films from Christian Aid and from the IF campaign. The evening raised awareness and £200 for Christian Aid.

Collecting to beat poverty

Pam Smith from St Mary & St John’s Church holds a collection for Christian Aid week at California Crossroads. As Xn went to press, the parish had raised £2,222.

Suffering, Pain and Patience Lessons from the Book of Job with Michael & Sylvia Penny An Open Bible Trust Study Afternoon 2:30—6:30 Saturday July 13 St. Stephen’s Church, Upper Basildon, Reading, RG8 8LS There is no charge for the afternoon and refreshments served between sessions.

For further information phone 01491-671357, email admin@obt.org.uk or visit www.obt.org.uk

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NEWS focus

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Are you the missing Link?

Minster festival will Three days of music and fun will help a church as it seeks to refurbish its Father Willis organ.

PHIL CREIGHTON explains

A COMMUNITY café that has been staffed by volunteers for almost 25 years is looking for new people to step up to the dinner plate.

The Link, in Tilehurst, has been running since 1989 and in that time served millions of cups of tea, and, in return, helped many different charities over the years.

Two hundred volunteers from nine churches were initially recruited to run the project; to look after the property, to go shopping, to arrange flowers, to do the laundry, to bake cakes, to make soup, to work in the kitchen, to serve in the shop and to make time to listen to customers who needed to talk.

Now, it is appealing for more people to help ensure it remains souper.

Patricia Spence, who volunteers at The Link on Saturdays and helps with its website, said: “Over 25 years many volunteers have come and gone. Some have grown old and retired, others left to go to university or have children.

“Whatever the reasons

our volunteers regularly need replacing if the Link is to continue to serve the community.

“We are in urgent need of more volunteers to help in the cafe particularly in the afternoons Monday to Friday, between 1pm and 4.30pm, either to cover the whole period or part of the time, especially from 1pm to 3pm, our busiest time.”

The Link started in 1987, following the retirement of the caretaker of Tilehurst Methodist Church.

In 1989, the property vacated by the caretaker finally opened as a Christian coffee shop to provide a community meeting place for everyone.

An ecumenical project, it involves most of the churches in Tilehurst.

“It is run by the community, for the community,” Patricia added. v To find our more, drop in to the café, log on to www. thelinktilehurst.org or contact Pat Roper, chair of the management committee by calling (0118) 942 4243 or patjroper@btinternet.com.

A FUNDRAISING appeal is hoping to make a noise and strike the right chords as it presents a family festival later this month.

Reading Minster Church in Reading’s town centre is holding a three-day event to help raise funds to restore its organ and celebrate the 60th anniversary of the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II. And with everything from children’s events to a flower festival, there will be something for everyone.

As the appeal is about music, the festival follows, with live jazz, opera and choral music to be enjoyed over three days.

Children can even explore the historic pipe organ as part of a painted pipes workshop. Peter West, the Minster’s director of music, will lead tours round the instrument which dates back to 1862, before letting children hear the instrument in action and take away a wooden organ pipe painting.

A jazz mass on Friday evening will see traditional hymns get a makeover, courtesy of a top jazz band, while Julie McKee, an acclaimed singer-songwriter from London will give a stunning concert later in the evening.

On Saturday, the church – which backs on to Jazz musician Julie McKee will give a concert as part of Reading’s busy shopping centre – will be the venue for an hour of hymns and Pimms. Starting Town Hall – it is was last refurbished in 1936 and is now in need of an overhaul. at 2.30pm, the event will fuse songs with some This is no small undertaking, as there are 2,886 thirst-quenching drinks. organ pipes of various sizes.

In the evening, there will be some much-loved The church has already raised £200,500 and operatic arias and choruses to enjoy in a special has agreed a scheme for the work and appointed operatic concert.

Mander to carry out the work. The company has During the Friday night concert, Cherubs rebuilt Willis organs in St Paul’s Cathedral and the Floral Design will give a flower arranging Royal Albert Hall. It now needs to find the remaining demonstration.

While all this is going on, there will be a flower £400,000, and welcomes donations.

Although this might seem like a large sum, Peter festival in the Minster itself, using displays is keen to stress the importance created by community groups. of the organ to Reading’s life.

Entry is £2.

“As Berkshire doesn’t have On Sunday, Haydn’s Little a Cathedral, the Minster Organ Mass will be performed operates as such. It’s vital that by the organ and a string it has an organ to cope with quartet as part of a choral The festival of flowers accompanying such big civic eucharist, starting at 11am. welcomes entries from events and big congregations Entry is free. individuals and groups, including – at the moment it is not Then, to close the flower clubs and churches. powerful enough,” he said. weekend, the fantastic boys’ Displays should have a royal And he wants to ensure that choir assembled by Peter theme, to tie in with the 60th the revitalised organ will be a will perform some choral anniversary of the Queen’s real blessing to Berkshire. classics at a special concert. coronation.

“Local organists, amateur The programme will include Entry is free and the best will and professional will also Parry’s I Was Glad and be decided at a special judging be able to use the organ Rutter’s For The Beauty of the panel, which will take place on for concerts and rehearsal Earth.

Saturday, June 29. purposes,” he promised. “Many Reading Minster needs to Entrants need to register by community groups also use the raise £600,000 to restore its Friday, June 14.

Minster and will benefit from organ, a Father Willis model.

For more details, contact the restored organ, including Installed in 1864 – the same Peter West: music@ local choirs and orchestras, year that another Father Willis readingminster.org.uk, or call as well as numerous school was installed in Reading’s (0118) 957 1057.

v Flower Festival entry deadline

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NEWS focus

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pull out all the stops v Why the organ needs to be repaired

17

Fun for children in the gardens FAMILIES are invited to come along and enjoy some summer fun including a real fire engine.

Members of Christ Church in Reading are holding their annual Afternoons In The Garden this month and everyone is invited.

Aimed at children, there will be fun, games and teas to enjoy … and if the weather is wet, that’s no problem as the activities will take place in the church itself.

It starts on Saturday, June

15 with a visit from Charlie The Clown, who specialises in balloon modelling.

On Saturday, June 29, there will be a visit from a fire engine (as long as there’s no emergency).

The final afternoon will be on Saturday, July 13 and see a visit from Nikki the Magic Lady.

Entry is free and donations are welcomed. Each session runs from 2.30pm-5pm. v For more, log on to www. christchurchreading.org.uk.

v Picnic time for Tilehurst

Organ case and display pipework

ALL of Tilehurst is invited to enjoy a garden party.

Taking place at St Michael’s Rectory in Routh Lane on Sunday, June 23, the fun event will see local churches join together to enjoy some sunshine (hopefully) and music.

The evening event, which starts at 5pm and ends at

7pm, includes a Songs of Praise-style service, with much-loved hymns.

Guests should bring a picnic, chairs and a rug. Tea and coffee will be available.

If it’s wet, it will be held in St Michael’s Hall, The Meadway. v For details, call Tony Bartlett on (0118) 967 8659 or email tony.bartlett@virgin.net.

v Ssssssh! But save the date Reading Minster Church’s three-day festival later this month and charity carol services and concerts which take place throughout the year.

“It can also be used as a teaching instrument and for accompanying vocal and orchestral workshops. The Some of the pipework is now held together restoration is of benefit to the larger community.” with tape and string and has corroded As well as the festival people can sponsor the refurbishment of pipes or rows of pipes. These can be sponsored for anything from £10 to £1,000. v For more details on the appeal, or to get involved, log on to www.readingminster.org.uk or call (0118) 957 1057.

v What’s on THE Flower Festival runs from 10am-4pm on Saturday and Sunday.

Entry £2

Friday, June 28 Lunchtime organ recital.

12.15pm-1pm. £2 Jazz mass: a communion service with a swing.

6.30pm. Free entry.

Julie McKee Jazz Duo in concert, plus flower arranging demonstration. From 7.30pm. £9. Tickets: (0118) 960 6060.

Saturday, June 29 Painted Pipes: family workshop. For ages

5-11. 10am-noon. £4 per child, adults free.

Hymns & Pimms in the Minster Church. 2.30pm.

Refreshments £4.

Details: (0118) 957 1057.

Opera Gala. Bar 7.30pm. £9. Details: (0118) 960 6060.

Sunday, June 30 Choral Eucharist – Haydn Little Organ Mass with organ and strings. 11am.

Free entry, retiring collection.

Choral classics performed by Reading Minster Choir. £5 6pm. Details: (0118) 960 6060.

There are missing tuning tongues in some parts of the pipework

WE HATE breaking it to you, but Christmas is coming(!)

Despite it being June, the Salvation Army is already

planning its Christmas Carol Concert in The Hexagon, Reading. It takes place on November 30. Save the date!

18

COMMUNITY

June 2013 | www.xnmedia.co.uk | To advertise call 01932 888417

FAMILY CIRCLE v An Andy move Andy Dickens, part of LifeSpring church’s leadership team for two decades, has moved from one Reading church to another.

After much prayer, Andy said that he felt the time was right for him to join Reading Family Church (RFC) with his wife and younger children.

LifeSpring held a farewell service for him on Sunday, May 19.

Scott Taylor, associate pastor from RFC, came to The Pavilion, LifeSpring’s new home, to receive Andy as Neville Hollands and others from LifeSpring testified to the amazing impact Andy has had on their church over the years.

“Andy has been a good friend and integral part of our leadership for many years,” Neville explained.

“He will be massively missed, but our loss is RFC’s gain and we are sure he will be as much an asset to them as he has been to us.”

Keeping you in touch with each other

v Father Tony Kemp, and his wife Valerie, will be stepping down from the curacy of St Paul’s Church, Wokingham later this month.

The couple will move to Hayling Island after a farewell service, which will be held on Sunday, June 16.

Father Tony will preside and speak at the 9.30am service, which will then be followed by a bring and share lunch.

At the end of the month, the church is holding a patronal festival, including an organ recital by David Pether on Saturday, June 29, and a joint mass with St Nicholas Church on Sunday, June 30.

The service will feature a talk by the Revd Dr Elizabeth Thomson, who is the team vicar of the Witney Parish.

A parish barbecue and choral evensong follows at 6.15pm.

For more details, log on to www.stpauls-wokingham. org.uk. v THE four churches that make up the Loddon Reach Benefice will come together for a special service to say

Lord Leslie drops in A LORD delivered a Pentecost message to a Caversham church last month.

The Revd Lord Leslie Griffiths made a return visit to Caversham Heights Methodist Church in Highmoor Road on Sunday, May 19.

“He preached on the power of the Holy Spirit to break down divisions caused by misunderstandings of culture, ethnicity and personal circumstance,” says Robin Gowers, an elder at the church.

farewell to its team rector late this month.

The Revd Maurice StantonSaringer is retiring and has been at the churches for the past seven years and his ministry will be celebrated at the service, which will be held on Sunday, June 30.

For more details, log on to www.loddonreach.org.uk. v St John’s Church in Crowthorne has set up a Twitter account: @stjohnsberks v A BINFIELD church is changing the times that it meets this month.

The 8am service at All Saints is now at 8.15am, while the 11.15am service will be at 11am. After each service coffee

and croissants will be served. v THE Church at the White House is now known at Christ Church Wokingham. It meets at 10.30am on Sundays in the hall of White House School, Evendons Lane, Wokingham. v CHURCHES in Caversham will gather together for its annual assembly. Taking place on Wednesday, June 5 at Caversham Heights Methodist Church, the event starts at 7.30pm and all are welcome. v Churches Together in Reading will hold its AGM on Thursday,July 4.

Starting at 7.30pm, the meeting takes place at Grange URC, Circuit Lane, Southcote.

Everyone is welcome to hear some of what has been going on in Reading in the last year.

For more, call Michael Penny, chair of CTR on 01491 671357. v ST PETER’S Caversham will hold a farewell Lunch for the Revd Dr Graeme Fancourt and his family on Sunday, June 16.

It will be held in the Rectory Garden from 12.30pm.

This is Graeme’s last Sunday and his final service will be Evensong at St Peters at 6.30pm that same day.

He is leaving the church to move to St Luke’s and St Bartholomew’s churches in East Reading from July.

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Here comes the iPray-er MOVE over iPlayer, here comes iPrayer!

A Caversham church has just launched a new live streaming service that enables people to join in services wherever they are in the world.

Launched on Trinity Sunday (May 26), visitors to the St Peter’s Church website can now take part in the 9.45am Eucharist services as they are held on Sundays. The church will also stream special services and Feast Days across the year. These will be promoted on its website.

Although the entire service is webcast, there are moments when the screen will go blank.

A spokesperson says: “When it comes to reading the Gospel, you will notice that we

disappear from view. This is because we process to the South doors of the Church, reminding us of our calling to proclaim the Gospel to the world.

“At the point of administering Communion, the camera is switched off; please do not adjust your sets. This allows all the people gathered for worship to receive Holy Communion.”

The project has been masterminded by the Revd Dr Graeme Fancourt, who will soon move across the river to St Luke’s and St Bartholomew’s churches in East Reading. v For more details or to catch the services, log on to www.stpetercaversham.org.uk.

v Celebrations as John Nike unveils stained glass art A NEW stained glass window will be unveiled at St Michael and St Mary Magdalene in Easthampstead, Bracknell later this month.

Designed by Thomas Denny, it will be officially revealed to the church by local businessman John Nike OBE. The artist will also be

in residence where he will be able to answer your questions about his work.

The special event takes place at 3pm on Sunday, June 9. It will be followed by afternoon tea and then evensong at 6pm.

The church is also looking to raise £20,000 to help restore

its high altar mosaic.

The artwork was designed

by Sir Thomas Graham Jackson who was associated with the Pre-Raphaelite Arts and Craft movement. v For more details or to donate, log on to www. stmichaelseasthampstead. org.uk.

19

v Organ appeal launched A GROUP of organ-isers are springing into action to help restore a much-loved musical instrument.

St Barnabas Church in Emmer Green has been using its organ on a regular basis since 1929. Now urgent action is need to regenerate the instrument, and ensure its sweet sounds will fill the church for another 90 years.

The church is looking to raise £60,000 over the next 18 months to clean, repair and replace old and damaged parts. The organ doesn’t need replacing but will be upgraded to make it suitable for the 21st century: a Diocese of Oxford organ adviser told the church: “The project is exciting because we hope to re-design an organ to meet new musical and liturgical needs.

“Further it is always more difficult to design a small organ than a larger one. That makes it an exacting task.”

The church’s fundraising plans include the opportunity to sponsor a hymn in its 9.30am Sunday services, and a host of events including a summer garden party on June 15.

Church member Steve Mardell has also created an organiser – a tiny replica of the organ – for people to drop loose change. v For more details, log on to www.saintbarnabas.org.uk.

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calendar

June 2013 | www.xnmedia.co.uk | To advertise call 01932 888417

WHAT’S ON Saturday, June 1 BRACKNELL – Kerith Community Church. Men’s event: games, grub and gladiators. 7.30pm. Details: mathew@rangerz.co.uk.

Hambleden – Car park beyond Stag & Huntsman pub. Christian Rambling Club 10½ mile walk near Henley. 10am. Pub lunch available at The Frog, Skirmett. Details: www.reading-crc.org.uk.

READING – Argyle Community Church, Argyle Road. SatCaf: tea, coffee, cakes, games and craft.

10.30am-12.30pm. All welcome.

READING – Emmanuel Methodist Church, Oxford Road. Coronation Day mini-market and table-top sale. 11am-2pm. 20p, children free.

Tables £5 advance. Details: Paul (0118) 958 4131 or Rita (0118) 967 6202.

READING – Carey Baptist Church.

Look At The Birds group presents a day trip to the Arne RSPB reserve in Dorset. Details: www. lookatthebirds.co.uk.

READING – Waitrose, Oxford Road.

ReadiFood food collection. 11am6pm.

TILEHURST – St Catherine’s Church and Centre, Wittenham Avenue.

50th Anniversary Flower Festival and Display. Wonderful flower arrangements from local Community groups and Art Display from the children of Birch Copse School. Free, donations to St Catherine’s Church and Centre Development Project. 10am-2pm.

THREE MILE CROSS – South of Reading Christian Fellowship.

School of Prayer. 10am-4pm, 7pm-9.30pm. Details: (0118) 988 4508.

WOKINGHAM – Market Place. Sunny Saturdays: Borderline Morris.

11am. www.wokingham-tc.gov.uk.

Sunday, June 2 BISHAM – Historic Houses and Gardens across village. 2pm-5pm.

Venues include Bisham Abbey, Bisham Church and Grange Cottage, Temple Lane. £4 entry, river trips extra. In aid of Thames Valley Air Ambulance. Details: 0300 999 0135.

COLEY PARK. Coley Park Community Fun Day. From 11am.

EMMER GREEN – Milestone Centre.

Caversham Park Church presents Hymnz and Cakes. 3.30pm4.30pm.

READING – Reading Minster,

Keeping you in touch with each other

St Mary’s Butts. Service for 60th anniversary of the Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II. 4pm.

TILEHURST – St Catherine’s Church and Centre, Wittenham Avenue.

50th Anniversary Flower Festival and Display. Wonderful flower arrangements from local Community groups and Art Display from the children of Birch Copse School. Free, donations to St Catherine’s Church and Centre Development Project. 1pm-5pm.

THREE MILE CROSS – South of Reading Christian Fellowship.

School of Prayer with Lance Lambert and Chuck Cohen.

10.30am and 6.30pm. Details: (0118) 988 4508.

WOODLEY – Woodford Park.

Churches Together in Woodley presents an ecumenical service.

11.30am.

UPPER WOOLHAMPTON – Douai Playing Field. Woolhampton Coronation Day celebrations. 11am Songs of Praise, fun day from noon, including tug of war at 4.30pm. All welcome.

Monday, June 3 READING – St Mark’s Church, Cranbury Road. Musical Mondays: summer organ recitals. David Phillips. Free admission. 1.10pm1.50pm.

WOKINGHAM – Methodist Church, Rose Street. Launch of Wokingham FoodBank. Everyone welcome.

7.30pm.

Tuesday, June 4 BRACKNELL – Kerith Community Church. CAP Money Course launch.

Get help managing your finances.

7.45pm. Details: www.kerith.co.uk.

FINCHAMPSTEAD – St James’ Church Centre. Breastfeeding Network presents a support session for mum. Bumps, babies and siblings welcome. 12.30pm-2pm.

Details: 0300 100 0210 or www. breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk.

THREE MILE CROSS – South of Reading Christian Fellowship.

School of Prayer with Lance Lambert and Chuck Cohen.

10.30am and 6.30pm. Details: (0118) 988 4508.

Wednesday, June 5 CAVERSHAM – Caversham Heights Methodist Church, Highmoor Road.

Churches Together in Caversham Assembly. 7.30pm. All welcome.

CROWTHORNE – St John The

Baptist Church, Waterloo Road.

Crowthorne Village Singers summer concert. 8pm. £5. Details: (01344) 780604.

CROWTHORNE – Methodist Church.

Illustrated talk by the Revd Donald Wittich, chaplain to Mission To Seafarers in Namibia. 7.30pm.

All welcome.

READING – Abbey Baptist Church, Abbey Square. Coffee & Chat coffee morning. 11am-12.30pm.

Details: (0118) 957 2197.

READING – St Luke’s Church, Erleigh Road. Coffee morning and book sale. 11am-noon.

Thursday, June 6 LOWER EARLEY – Trinity Church.

Chalfont Afternoon Social Group: Police Dog Handling, a talk by Simon Williams. 2pm-3.30pm. £1.

Details: (0118) 987 3755.

HENLEY – Badgemore Park Golf Club, Badgemore. The Filling Station meeting. 7.30pm. Details: www. thefillingstation.org.uk/category/ henley.

READING – Bridge Hall, Oxford Road.

Oasis Café: free drinks and cakes.

Book stall, activities for children, hairdressing and more. 10.30am12.30pm. Free. Details: www. argylecommunitychurch.com.

Friday, June 7 HENLEY – Church of the Sacred Heart. Bridge Day. Tables of 4. £60, includes lunch. 01491 572118.

READING – The Pavilion, Oxford Road. Touching Heaven, Changing Earth conference with guest speaker Alan Scott. Evening.

Continues tomorrow. Details: www.thce.co.uk.

Saturday, June 8 BINFIELD – Meet in Car Park of Binfield Shopping Centre. Men’s monthly country walk. 7.45am.

Come ready for rain and mud.

Details: Clive Betteridge (01344) 450260 or email clive.betteridge@ ntlworld.com.

BRACKNELL – Kerith Centre, Church Road. K4 Charity Fashion Show to help raise funds for CAP Debt Advice Centre, Foodbank and Kerith Konnections/ £5. 7.30pm. Details: www.kerith.co.uk.

CAVERSHAM – Methodist Church, Gosbrook Road. The Laurence Simkins Art Competition and Exhibition. 2pm-5pm. Details: cavhmc.org.uk.

CROWTHORNE – Woodmancote.

Submit your events to editor@xnmedia.co.uk Network Vineyard presents Out To Tea: a tea party for older folk. Afternoon. Details: (01344) 780087.

EARLEY – Earley St Peters.

Ploughman’s Supper and quiz night. Two courses plus drinks. £5.50, £3.50 children. In aid of Christian Aid. 7pm. Details: (0118) 966 8575.

FINCHAMPSTEAD – St James’ Church Centre. Churchyard Trust fundraising tea plus country walks: 1½ miles and 7½ miles. Times to be confirmed. Details: r.owen111@ btinternet.com.

READING – The Pavilion, Oxford Road. Touching Heaven, Changing Earth conference with guest speaker Alan Scott. 9am-6pm.

Details: www.thce.co.uk.

READING – All Nations Christian Fellowship. Beach Party for women. Bring a beach towel.

Guest speaker Vicky Taylor.

7.15pm-9.30pm. £5, £7.50 for two. Details: (0118) 950 5661.

READING – Broad Street. Reading Central Salvation Army band in concert. 11am-1pm.

READING – The Hexagon. The Halle orchestra in concert: music by Weber, Stravinsky and Sibelius.

7.30pm. Pre-concert talk 6.15pm. £16-£32. Student standby £5.

Details: (0118) 960 6060 or www.readingarts.com.

READING – Concert Hall. Henley Choral Society: Verdi’s Requiem. £16, under 18s £12. Details: Jan French 01491 572795 or www.readingarts.com.

SANDHURST – Sandhurst and Yateley Methodist Church, Scotland Hill.

Plant sale. 10am-noon.

SWALLOWFIELD – Mead House.

Church fete with a miniature railway, Punch and Judy, magic show, face painting and a Mummers’ Play. 2pm-5.15pm.

TILEHURST – St Joseph’s Parish Hall.

Summer celebration: barbecue, live music and entertainment.

From 7pm. £6. Details: www. st-josephs-tilehurst.org.uk.

WOKINGHAM – Market Place. Sunny Saturdays: Wokingham Choral Society. 11am-1pm. Trinity Concert Band. 1.30pm-3.30pm. Details: www.wokingham-tc.gov.uk.

WOODLEY – Christ Church, Crockhamwell Road. Church ramble. 10am. Details: (0118) 926 8143.

LONDON – Westminster Central Hall and Hyde Park. Enough Food IF Rally. Service at 11.30am, follwed

by rally in Hyde Park from 2pm4pm.

VIRGINIA WATER – Wheatsheaf Pub. Sponsored Walk in aid of Action for Children. Five miles. 10am.

Details: (0118) 978 2597.

Sunday, June 9 BINFIELD HEATH – Across the village.

Open gardens in aid of Thames Valley Air Ambulance. Includes 6, 13 and 16 Heathfield Avenue, Gosbrook House, Common Lane, Binfield House, Edwinstowe, Kiln Lane, Homeside, Kiln Lane. 2pm5pm. £4 for all gardens. Details: 0300 999 0135.

EASTHAMPSTEAD – St Michael and St Mary Magdalene. local businessman John Nike OBE unveils a new stained glass window designed by Thomas Denny. 3pm.

Followed by afternoon tea and evensong at 6pm. Details: www. stmichaelseasthampstead.org.uk.

READING – Starbucks, Buttermarket.

Sunday Night Live presents live blues from Lisa and Andy. 7pm. All welcome.

READING – St Bartholomew’s Church, St Batholomew’s Road.

Prayer Cafe: enjoy tea, cake and discussion. 4pm-4.45pm. All welcome.

READING – All Saints Church, Downshire Square. Musical Genesis: music club for ages 5-8.

3.30pm-4.15pm. Details: 07722 826253.

SILCHESTER – Heathfield, Bramley Road. Open gardens in aid of British Red Cross. £3.50 combined with Macartneys (see below). 2pm-5pm. Details: www.britishredcross.org.uk/ opengardens.

SILCHESTER – Macartneys, Kings Road. Open gardens in aid of British Red Cross. £3.50 combined with Heathfield (see above).

2pm-5pm.

TILEHURST – St Michael’s Church, Honey End Lane. All-age informal service. 9.30am. Healing service.

6.30pm. All welcome.

Monday, June 10 READING – St Mark’s Church, Cranbury Road. Musical Mondays: summer organ recitals. Martin Seymour from All Saints’ Marlow.

Free admission. 1.10pm-1.50pm.

Tuesday, June 11 EMMER GREEN – St Barnabas Church.

Patronal Festival with guest

Take time out and enjoy a cuppa and a chat!

Come and join us on Wednesdays!

You can’t beat a good cup of coffee and a chance to chat – and that’s what you can enjoy at Coffee & Chat, a brilliant new coffee morning in Reading’s town centre!

• Meet old friends, make new ones • Everyone is welcome • Tea, coffee, cakes and biscuits all available • Wednesdays 11am-12.30pm

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

CALENDAR speaker the Revd Rachel Wadie, chaplain of Prospect Park Hospital.

All welcome. 8pm.

FINCHAMPSTEAD – St James’ Church Centre. Breastfeeding Network presents a support session for mum. Bumps, babies and siblings welcome. 12.30pm-2pm.

Details: 0300 100 0210 or www. breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk.

Wednesday, June 12 READING – St Giles in Reading, Southampton Street. Lunchtime organ concert for 40 minutes, given by Ian May, organist St Giles. Free admission. Light refreshments and retiring collection. 1.15pm. Details: 07765 118895.

READING – Workhouse Coffee, King Street (enter via The George Hotel). Family Business client taster evening. 7.30pm. Details: www.thefamilybusiness.org.uk.

READING – Abbey Baptist Church, Abbey Square. Coffee & Chat coffee morning. 11am-12.30pm.

Details: (0118) 957 2197.

Thursday, June 13 READING – Bridge Hall, Oxford Road.

Oasis Café: free drinks and cakes.

Book stall, activities for children, hairdressing and more. 10.30am12.30pm. Free. Details: www. argylecommunitychurch.com.

Friday, June 14 FINCHAMPSTEAD – FBC Centre.

Women Together In The Community presents a ladies’ meal. Suitable for ages 14+. £5.

7.30pm. Booking essential. Details: www.finchampstead.com.

READING – All Nations Christian Centre, Berkeley Avenue. Duggie Dug Dug Goes Wild praise party for children: songs, puppets and live animals. 6pm. All ages welcome. Details: children@ allnationselim.org.

READING – Greyfriars Church, Friar Street. Sports quiz with Debbie Flood and Peter Chambers. 8pm. £20 per table. Details: www. greyfriars.org.uk.

Saturday, June 15 ALDERMASTON – The Rectory.

Aldermaston and Wasing churches present a garden party. 1pm-4pm.

BINFIELD – Foxley Fields. Party on the Field. 2.30pm-9pm. Details: www.binfieldparishcouncil.org.uk.

FINCHAMPSTEAD – FBC Centre.

Women Together In The Community presents a ladies’ afternoon: Zumba and aerobics tasters, crafts, café, quiet times and more. Suitable for ages 14+. 1pm-4pm. Details: www. finchampstead.com.

READING – St Andrew’s URC, London Road. Africa Day: A celebration of African culture, food, music and dance including a performance

by Lifted choir. From 4.30pm.

All welcome. Details: www. networkvineyard.org.uk.

READING – Salvation Army, Anstey Road. Walking fellowship: meet at church for a walk of around

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7.30pm. Details: (0118) 942 5290 or www.readingconcertsingers. org.

WOKINGHAM – Town Hall. Arts and cultures lecture: Diaghilev and his Ballet Russes - when art danced with music. 7.30pm-8.30pm. £5.

Details: (0118) 974 0889.

ReadiFood are teaming up with Waitrose to collect food from local stores. Volunteers are needed to help with the collections.

Woodley – Saturday, June 1, Sunday, June 2 Caversham – Saturday, July 27, Sunday July 28 Oxford Road, Reading – Friday, August 9– Sunday, August 11 Woodley – Saturday, Sept 7, Sunday, Sept 8 Oxford Road – Thursday, Oct 17, Friday Oct 18 Oxford Road – Saturday, Dec 7, Sunday, Dec 8 Hourly slots each day from 11am onwards If you can help please ring or email the office.

Friday, June 21

v For more details, contact Alison Peyton on (0118) 987 2672 or emailreadifood@fcg.org.uk.

4½ miles, aiming to finish at 1pm.

Details: Michael Bennett (0118) 984 4818.

READING – Christ Church, Christchurch Road. Afternoons In The Garden: family fun. Free.

2.30pm-5pm. Details: www. christchurchreading.org.uk.

SPENCERS WOOD – Village Hall. The Watermill Theatre presents The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde. 7.30pm. Details: (0118) 988 3483.

WHITLEY – St Paul’s Play Barn.

Father’s Day celebration: a morning of fun to celebrate dads!

Crafts, games, bacon sandwiches and songs. 10am-noon. Dads and under 5s only.

Sunday, June 16 BINFIELD – Newbold College, Popewood Road. Moor Close Gardens open for National Garden Scheme. 2pm-5pm. £2.50, children free.

BINFIELD – All Saints Church. Special service for Father’s Day. 11am.

BRACKNELL – Kerith Centre, Church Road. Father’s Day family friendly fun including a farm. 9am and 11am. All welcome. Details: www. kerith.co.uk.

BRACKNELL – Oakwood Youth Challenge. Dad’s space: hog roast, footy, live music and more. 6pm.

Details: www.kerith.co.uk.

CAVERSHAM – St John The Baptist Rectory Garden. Farewell lunch for the Revd Dr Graeme Fancourt.

12.30pm. His final service will be Messy Church is a fun event for all the family.

It gives busy families the chance to get together and usually includes songs, activities, stories, crafts and snacks.

For more details on what happens at each venue, please contact it directly.

Sunday, June 9 WOODLEY – Christ Church, Crockhamwell Road. Messy Church. 4pm.

Wednesday, June 12 BRACKNELL – Easthampstead Baptist Church. 4pm-6pm.

Details: www.ebc-bracknell.org

Evensong, 6.30pm.

CROWTHORNE – St John The Baptist Church, Waterloo Road. All-age worship for Father’s Day including Jonah Man Jazz performed by the Junior choir. 10am. All welcome.

READING – St Bartholomew’s Church, St Bartholomew’s Road.

Everything I Know About God I’ve Learned from Being a Parent: a talk by author Veronica Zundel.

4pm. Free entry.

READING – Palmer Park. East Reading Festival. Noon-6pm. Stalls, music, and more. All welcome.

Monday, June 17 READING – St Mark’s Church, Cranbury Road. Musical Mondays: summer organ recitals. Philip Luke from Bloomsbury Central Baptist Church, London. Free admission.

1.10pm-1.50pm.

SOUTHCOTE – Southcote Mission, Southcote Lane. Reading Aglow meeting for women: Georgina Danso speaking on God’s Goodness and Faithfulness. £3, first meeting free. 7.15pm. Details: www. readingaglow.org.uk.

TILEHURST – Reading Community Church, The Meadway. Scottish Dancing. 7.30pm-9.30pm. Details: www.readingcommunitychurch. com.

Tuesday, June 18 FINCHAMPSTEAD – St James’ Church Centre. Breastfeeding Network presents a support session for mums. Bumps, babies and

siblings welcome. 12.30pm-2pm.

Details: 0300 100 0210 or www. breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk.

Wednesday, June 19 CAVERSHAM – St John the Baptist Church, Gosbrook Road.

Confirmation service for St John’s Day, led by the Rt Revd Andrew Proud, Bishop of Reading.

7.30pm. Part of the church’s 125th anniversary celebrations. All welcome.

PEPPARD COMMON – Springwater Church. The Point: a teaching session on heaven and hell, followed by a Q&A session.

7.30pm. Details: (0118) 972 4519.

READING – Abbey Baptist Church, Abbey Square. Coffee & Chat coffee morning. 11am-12.30pm.

Details: (0118) 957 2197.

Thursday, June 20 GORING – The Canterbury Room, St Thomas of Canterbury Church.

Pick-a-flick presents Freedom Writers starring Hilary Swank. £3.

2pm. Details: 01491 873128.

READING – Bridge Hall, Oxford Road.

Oasis Café: free drinks and cakes.

Book stall, activities for children, hairdressing and more. 10.30am12.30pm. Free. Details: www. argylecommunitychurch.com.

TILEHURST – St Mary Magdalen Church Hall, Rodway Road.

Reading Concert Singers present Hiawatha’s Wedding Feast and other romantic music from films and shows. £8, under 16s £4.

Church. 4pm-6pm. Details: www.argylecommunitychurch. com.

Sunday, June 30 Sunday, June 16

CAVERSHAM – Baptist Church.

Messy Church. 3.45pm-5,30pm, includes tea. Details: (0118) 954 5353.

SPENCERS WOOD – St Michael’s Church. 4pm.

Tuesday, July 2

Saturday, June 22 PURLEY – St Mary’s. Messy Church: birthday party. 3.30pm, followed by tea at 5pm. All welcome.

READING – Argyle Community Church, Argyle Road. Messy

21

UPPER BUCKLEBURY – All Saints Church. Messy Church: Jesus is amazing. 3.30pm.

Wednesday, July 10 BRACKNELL – Easthampstead Baptist Church. 4pm-6pm.

Details: www.ebc-bracknell.org.

ALDERMASTON – The Hinds Head.

Aldermaston Walking Group: evening walks of around 2-4 miles. 6.30pm-8pm. All welcome.

Details: Chris Newman (0118) 971 3525 or Dave Shirt (0118) 971 2549.

DUNSDEN GREEN – All Saints Church.

Reading A440 Choir present Under The Sea. 7.30pm. Details: www. a440choir.com.

WHITLEY – St Agnes Church Hall, Northumberland Avenue.

Reading Concert Singers present Hiawatha’s Wedding Feast and other romantic music from films and shows. £8, under 16s £4.

7.30pm. Details: (0118) 942 5290 or www.readingconcertsingers. org.

Saturday, June 22 BINFIELD – St Mark’s Church. Men’s breakfast: Perspective, It Depends On How You Look At It. 7.30am8.45am. Followed by a church cemetery clean-up.

Details: (01344) 421079 or email: binfield.church@hotmail.co.uk.

CAVERSHAM – St Andrew’s Church, Albert Road. Concerts in Caversham presents Antara Flute and Harp Duo. 7.30pm. Details: (0118) 948 4112.

LOWER EARLEY – Trinity Church.

Trinity Concert Band in concert.

7.30pm. Details: (0118) 969 0925.

READING – St Laurence Church.

Reading A440 Choir present Under The Sea. 7.30pm. Details: www. a440choir.com.

READING – The Pavilion, Oxford Road. LifeSpring church presents community fun day and opportunity to explore The Pavilion. Details: lifespringchurch. org.uk READING – English Martyrs Parish Hall, Lienbrood Road. Jumble sale in aid of orphans in Philippines.

1pm-4pm.

READING – Reading Family Church, London Street. Women’s breakfast. 8.30am-10.45am.

Details: readingfamilychurch.org.uk.

THEALE – Theale CofE School.

Summer fete. 11am-2pm.

Sunday, June 23 COLEY PARK – Coley Park Baptist Church. Church barbecue.

12.30pm. Details: www. coleychurch.org.uk.

READING – All Saints Church, Downshire Square. Musical Genesis: music club for ages 5-8.

3.30pm-4.15pm. Details: 07722 826253.

TILEHURST – St Michael’s Rectory, Routh Lane. Community garden party. If wet in St Michael’s Hall, The Meadway. 5pm-7pm. Details: (0118) 967 8659.

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calendar

June 2013 | www.xnmedia.co.uk | To advertise call 01932 888417

WOKINGHAM – St Paul’s Church, Reading Road. West Forest Sinfonia in concert. 7.30pm.

Details: www.stpauls-wokingham. org.uk.

WOODLEY – Oakwood Centre.

Reading A440 Choir present Under The Sea. 4pm. Details: www. a440choir.com.

WOODLEY – Bulmershe Leisure Centre, Woodlands Avenue.

Network Vineyard Reading Campus barbecue. All welcome. 12.30pm.

Monday, June 24 READING – St Mark’s Church, Cranbury Road. Musical Mondays: summer organ recitals. Nicholas Mannoukas, Organ Scholar, All Saints’ Church, Margaret Street, London. Free. 1.10pm-1.50pm.

Tuesday, June 25 BINFIELD – St Mark’s Church. The Silver Service followed by a hot lunch. Noon. All welcome. Help with transport available. Details: (01344) 411681.

BRACKNELL – Jocks Lane Recreation Ground. Teddy Bears’ Picnic. 11am.

FINCHAMPSTEAD – St James’ Church Centre. Breastfeeding Network presents a support session for mums. 12.30pm-2pm.

Details: 0300 100 0210 or www. breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk.

Wednesday, June 26

READING – Abbey Baptist Church, Abbey Square. Coffee & Chat coffee morning. 11am-12.30pm.

Details: (0118) 957 2197.

READING – St Giles in Reading, Southampton Street. Lunchtime organ concert for 40 minutes,

by Christine Wells, St Mary’s Hambleden. Free admission.

1.15pm. Details: 07765 118895.

Thursday, June 27 READING – Bridge Hall, Oxford Road.

Oasis Café: free drinks and cakes.

Book stall, activities for children, hairdressing and more. 10.30am12.30pm. Free. Details: www. argylecommunitychurch.com.

Friday, June 28 BRACKNELL – Hilton Hotel, Bagshot Road. Community and Business Leaders Breakfast with Major General Tim Cross. £15. 7am8.30am. Details: (01344) 862699.

READING – Reading Minster Church.

Reading Minster Festival in aid of Organ Restoration Fund. 12.15pm Organ recital. 6.30pm Communion with live jazz band. 8pm Jazz with the Julie McKee Duo and flower arranging demonstration.

Details: (0118) 960 6060 or www. readingarts.com.

Saturday, June 29 CAVERSHAM – Our Lady and St Anne, South View Avenue. Summer fete.

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EMMER GREEN – St Barnabas Church.

St Barnabas and Caversham Park LEP Church discovery day, led by the Revd Canon David Winter. 10am-4pm. Details: cavershamparkvillagechurch.com.

READING – Reading Minster Church.

Reading Minster Festival in aid of Organ Restoration Fund. 10am Painted Pipes. 2.30pm Hymns and Pimms. 7.30pm Opera Gala.

Details: (0118) 960 6060 or www. readingarts.com.

READING – English Martyrs School, Dee Road. Summer Fayre and Children’s Fun Day in aid of School and Parish funds. Noon-4pm.

READING – Station. Catch 9.44am to Goring from Platform 12, then walk to Pangbourne and walk back to Reading, followed by Heroes’ barbecue at All Nations Christian Centre in Berkeley Avenue from 5pm. Walk around 12 miles.

Details: www.allnationselim.org.

READING – St Mark’s Church, Cranbury Road. Summer fair. 2pm.

READING – Christ Church, Christchurch Road. Afternoons In The Garden: family fun. Free.

Details: www.christchurchreading. org.uk.

READING – English Martrys Church.

Summer fayre. Noon-4pm.

SHINFIELD – Infant School. St Mary’s Church fete. Noon-3.30pm.

TWYFORD – Loddon Hall. Twyford Singers summer concert: Victorian and Edwardian music. 7.30pm.

Details: www.twyfordsingers. org.uk.

WARGRAVE – St Mary’s Church.

Flower festival.

WOKINGHAM – St Paul’s Church, Reading Road. Organ recital by David Pether. 7.30pm. Details: www.stpauls-wokingham.org.uk.

WOKINGHAM – St Paul’s Church, Reading Road. Patronal Festival services: 9.30am, led by the Revd Dr Elizabeth Thomson, followed by a parish barbecue. Details: www. stpauls-wokingham.org.uk.

Sunday, June 30

BRACKNELL – St Paul’s Church.

200th anniversary celebration weekend. Flower festival.

Sherfield on Loddon – Sherfield Oaks Golf Club, Wildmoor Road. Reading Area Churches Golf Day. Details: johnlmann@tiscali.co.uk.

CROWTHORNE – St John the Baptist Church, Waterloo Road.

Crowthorne Community Songs of Praise. 6pm. All welcome.

Refreshments follows.

READING – Reading Minster Church.

Reading Minster Festival in aid of Organ Restoration Fund. 11am choral eucharist. 6pm Choral classics with the Reading Minster Choir. Details: (0118) 960 6060 or www.readingarts.com.

READING – Reading Family Church, London Street. Community lunch.

12.30pm-3pm. Details: www. readingfamilychurch.org.uk.

RUSCOMBE – St James. Songs of Praise followed by Sip’n’Nibble.

6pm. All welcome.

WARGRAVE – Festival Marquee, Mill Green. Wargrave Festival service with guest speaker Rico Tice.

10.30am. Family party with games and more. Noon. Free.

WOODLEY – Bulmershe Leisure Centre, Woodlands Avenue.

Network Vineyard Reading Campus presents Catch The Fire with Stuart and Chloe Glassborow.

10.30am. Details: www. networkvineyard.org.uk.

WOKINGHAM – All Saints Church, Wiltshire Road. Continental breakfast after 8am service All welcome. Details: (018) 979 2614.

Monday, July 1 READING – St Mark’s Church, Cranbury Road. Musical Mondays: summer organ recitals. Katharine Phillips, soprano, and David Phillips, organist, Parish of St Mark and All Saints. Free admission.

1.10pm-1.50pm.

Tuesday, July 2 FINCHAMPSTEAD – St James’ Church Centre. Breastfeeding Network support session. 12.30pm-2pm.

Details: 0300 100 0210 or www. breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk.

Wednesday, July 3 READING – Abbey Baptist Church, Abbey Square. Coffee & Chat coffee morning. 11am-12.30pm.

Details: (0118) 957 2197.

Thursday, July 4 READING – Bill’s, Chain Street.

Reading At Work presents: What Recession? The Physical, Mental and Spiritual Impact with Andrew Drury. 7.30pm. To book, email dave@readingatwork.org.

SOUTHCOTE – Grange URC, Circuit Lane. Churches Together in Reading AGM. 7.30pm. Details: Michael Penny 01491 671357.

READING – Bridge Hall, Oxford Road. Oasis Café. 10.30am12.30pm. Free. Details: www. argylecommunitychurch.com.

Friday, July 5

Saturday, July 6 BINFIELD – Binfield School. Summer fete including sports day challenge, bouncy castle and more.

11am-3pm.

BRACKNELL – St Paul’s Church.

200th anniversary celebration weekend. Flower festival with family fun day, cakes, bouncy castle and more.

CAVERSHAM – St John the Baptist Church, Gosbrook Road. Hurst Singers present an evening of summer music to celebrate the church’s 125th anniversary.

7.30pm. All welcome. £8. Details: (0118) 947 5120.

HARE HATCH – Yeldall Manor.

Yeldall Manor annual open day.

1pm-6pm. Details: (0118) 940 1093 or e-mail suehedger@ yeldall.org.uk.

READING – All Saints Chuch, Downshire Sq. Fair. 1.30pm.

READING – St Luke’s Church, Erleigh Road. Coffee morning and book sale. 11am-noon.

READING – Argyle Community

Church. Sat Café: tea, coffee, cakes, local papers, games and more. All welcome. Free.

10.30am-12.30pm. Details: www. argylecommunitychurch.com.

SANDHURST – Sandhurst and Yateley Methodist Church, Scotland Hill.

Summer fair. Times TBC. Details: www.sandhurstmethodist.org.uk.

Sunday, July 7 BEECH HILL – Thrive, Trunkwell Gardens. Open Gardens in aid of NGS. 2pm-4.30pm.

READING – The Pavilion, Oxford Road. LifeSpring church official reopening. From 10am. Details: lifespringchurch.org.uk.

Wednesday, July 10 READING – St James Presbytery, Abbot’s Walk. How to become a Catholic. 7.30pm. Details: www. jameswilliam-reading.org.uk.

READING – Abbey Baptist Church, Abbey Square. Coffee & Chat coffee morning. 11am-12.30pm.

Details: (0118) 957 2197.

Thursday, July 11 READING – Bridge Hall, Oxford Road. Oasis Café. 10.30am12.30pm. Free. Details: www. argylecommunitychurch.com.

Friday, July 12 BRACKNELL – Kerith Community Church. Real Women’s Conference.

Guest speakers include Kim McManus, Abs Niblock and Catrina Benham. 7.30pm-9.30pm.

Continues tomorrow. Details: www.kerith.co.uk.

Saturday, July 13 BRACKNELL – Kerith Community Church. Real Women’s Conference.

9am-5pm and 7.30pm-9.30pm.

Details: www.kerith.co.uk.

CAVERSHAM – Caversham Court Gardens. Caversham Grand Fete including, weather permitting, a flypast of the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight including a Spitfire, Hurricane and Lancaster. 1.30pm.

EARLEY – Earley St Peter’s School.

Summer fayre. 2pm-4pm.

FINCHAMPSTEAD – Memorial Park.

St James’ Church summer fete, featuring St Sebastian Wokingham Band, fancy dress contest and more. Noon-4pm. Details: (0118) 973 0133.

READING – Christ Church, Christchurch Road. Afternoons In The Garden: family fun. Free.

2.30pm-5pm. Details: www. christchurchreading.org.uk.

Upper Basildon – St Stephen’s Church. An Open Bible Trust Study Afternoon. The Book of Job – Suffering, Pain and Death with Michael and Sylvia Penny. 2.30pm6.30pm. There is no charge.

Details: 01491 671357.

WHITLEY – Rabson’s Recreation Ground, Northumberland Avenue.

South Reading Churches family fun day. Noon-3pm. All welcome.

Free.

WOKINGHAM – St Paul’s Church, Reading Road. Summer fair.

2pm-5pm.

CLASSIFIED

To advertise call 01932 888417 | www.xnmedia.co.uk | June 2013

YOUR SAY We love hearing your views. Send your letters to editor@ xnmedia.co.uk, comment on our Facebook page or tweet us @xnmedia. Alternatively, write to Xn, c/o Abbey Baptist Church, Reading RG1 3BE. We reserve the right to edit letters

v Lessons for life from Sunday School Dear Editor, Perhaps if I had been a more committed Christian or/ and a better campaigner my efforts – over several decades – to make both the local and national hierarchy accept that Berkshire’s (and Reading’s in particular) NHS mental health provisions (especially those for and under 18 years old – 8 in, and 16 daycare places and 79 community staff, the same provisions as at year ended 2001 – for the entire Royal County) are woefully inadequate.

With no specialist staff or services for under 18 years old who self-harm or are the victims of sexual abuse/ assault for example would have been even slightly more successful.

I have however always tried to do my best and as much as I could – and will continue to do so, can any of us do more? – to take comfort from the following homilies, handed down to me from my childhood Sunday school teacher, the late and much missed Doris

Sheppard of the Grange URC, which I hope will also inspire and encourage others of all or no faiths: 1. In order to succeed we must have the courage to try, to try again and to fail.

2. The only difference between stumbling blocks and stepping stones is how we use them.

3. God sometimes moves mountains one pebble at a time.

4. Our failures may ultimately be as important as our successes. Respect yourself for both – because failing means you had the commitment, the courage and the faith to try.

The only weapon (for it is a fight) that I can use still is prayer but prayer is the greatest instrument of/for change (if not always the fastest.)

So please God grant me patience (but hurry up with the gift, if you can.)

Paul Farmer, a member of Emmanuel Methodist Church, Reading

Trades directory

23

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v Domestic help Personal Assistant urgently needed. For disabled mum of 2 children (7 & 9) for 3 weekday afternoons from 4pm onwards (approx 2 hours) and possibly 2-3 hours on a Saturday, in Earley.

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v Marketing Creative thinker inspires results.

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

v Counselling Loddon Counselling & Psychology Service. Accredited counsellors, supervisors, trainers.

Over 20 years experience NHS and other settings. CBT available.

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

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 and 5% of total order goes to YeLDALl manor

v Carpet cleaning Professional Carpet, Upholstery and Leather 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

v Relationships Christian? SIngle? Divorced?

Widowed? Call New Day Introductions on 01706 224049.

First match within a week. www. newdaydating.co.uk. Established 24 years

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

v Double glazing

ABBEY WINDOWS. Windows, composite, pvc, Bi Fold doors Featuring A rated Energy glass Trading Standards and Fensa approved. Also repairs to glass, locks, handles. Competitive prices 0118 956 6866 info@abbeywindows.co.uk

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 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.

vD riving lessons

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Lessons for beginners or those who are test ready. Pay as you go or get discount for block booking. Over 4 years experience. Contact Robin Gowers by txt on 07973730990 or email: robin.gowers@ntlworld.com

24

SPORT

June 2013 | www.xnmedia.co.uk | To advertise call 01932 888417

The Royals’ Prince

At Reading FC with Steve Prince

Time for new beginnings at Reading FC

Thames Valley Churches Football League

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

Kerith do the cup treble Kerith Community Church won the Philmar Cup for the third time in four seasons Picture: Jack Schofield

T

he football season has finished and everything has now been decided. The retirements of some very significant names such as Sir Alex Ferguson, David Beckham, Jamie Carragher and Paul Scholes means that next season’s footballing landscape will be very different.

It’s also a time of new beginnings at Reading FC and we are likely to see the departure of some much loved players who have served the Royals well.

The last few games of our Premier League season gave us an insight into the passing style of football that Nigel Adkins will want the team to play and another exciting season surely beckons.

Congratulations to Alex McCarthy on his England call-up. As a club we are blessed with some great goalkeepers and this can only help build confidence across the defence.

New beginnings are always a big life challenge. Invariably they mean losing relationships that have been established over time and so there can be sadness. There is also the need to establish new relationships and this can be an uncomfortable process that requires patience and perseverance. This is especially true in respect of football club chaplaincy.

TRANSIENT Football is a transient world and, while a few players and management can be around in a club for a long time, many are not.

I am part of an organisation called Sports Chaplaincy UK (SCUK) and most sports chaplains are also connected through this charitable organisation.

SCUK enables us as chaplains to network together in such a way that when players or management move to a new club, we can contact one another to ensure that relationships are given a ‘head start’. Just by knowing the chaplain at the club a player has just come from can provide a great means to start establishing a new relationship.

New beginnings tend to work best when we utilise the ability to build bridges by establishing common ground. This means putting the work in to find out what this might be. If you are facing new beginnings in your life I encourage you not to be anxious or fearful of this but rather to discover ways to get on the front foot and to be pro-active in initiating conversation and to look for any obvious relational connections.

Following all the comings and goings in the close season, everyone will re-group back in training before we know it and the new focus will be on getting back into the Premier League.

While this is the goal, we can enjoy playing some traditionally great teams who are also in the Championship with us.

Congratulations should go to Yeovil Town who are also now in the Championship, having beaten Brentford in the League One play-off final. They were only promoted into the Football League 10 years ago.

Next season, The Royals will have to play on Yeovil’s famous sloping pitch!

Come on URZ!!

Steve Prince is Reading FC Chaplain AND THE Pastor of Brookside Church

S

aturday, May 4 saw the culmination of the 25th Philmar Cup competition and the second Colin Lowery Trophy Final.

A total of 16 teams entered this year’s TVCFL cup competitions. Joining the 11 league teams were former TVCFL teams Carey Corinthians, Reading Community Church and South Ealing & Brentford, one of the original founding members of the TVCFL in 1987/88.

Other guest teams included St Pauls, Ealing who play with South Ealing & Brentford in the Ealing Churches Football League and St Andrews, High Wycombe, who are members of the Chiltern Churches Football League.

v Colin Lowery Trophy rEADING SAINTS V SOUTH EALING & BRENTFORD Having overcome Norreys in the semi-finals of the Colin Lowery Trophy on penalties, Reading Saints were appearing in their first cup final under their current club name. They faced South Ealing & Brentford who overcame an aging Carey Corinthians side 4-2 the weekend before.

In warm conditions, both sides tried in vain to serve up something special during the first 90 minutes and neither keeper was put under any real pressure. As some legs became tired during extra time and fresh ones were introduced, the game became a little more open.

Just before the end of the first period, the moment of quality arrived, and it couldn’t have been better scripted: South Ealing’s playermanager Tim Lofthouse, in his final game for the club after 20 years, having dropped back from striker to centre-half, found the pass that split open the Saints defence.

Racing on to his through ball was captain Lee Detain who, controlling it with his first touch, lashed the ball home across the keeper from the edge of the area.

Despite the attrition that had gone before, it was a fitting goal to win any final.

Reading Saints gave everything but could not find a way back, and it would be hard to deny Lofthouse, a great servant to the TVCFL, this winning end to his career.

v Philmar Cup KERITH COMMUNITY CHURCH V ST PAULS, EALING Due to the wet winter, the line-up for the 25th Philmar Cup Final was only confirmed a week before the final was due to be played!

Defending champions Kerith Community Church overcame West Reading CFC 5-2 whilst guest team St Pauls, Ealing defeated Tilehurst Albion on penalties after a tight 1-1 draw.

Kerith Community Church have become Philmar Cup specialists in recent years and secured their third win in the competition in four years, after coming from behind to beat St Pauls, Ealing 2-1.

In an entertaining match, St Pauls took a deserved first- half lead when Nathan Jennings’ looping header evaded the outstretched hand of Kerith goalkeeper Nath Saleh.

Kerith rallied after the break and, after gradually wrestling the initiative, finally managed to equalise on the hour mark after great work out wide by Ben Findlay; his accurate low cross was buried from close range by Levi Tippett.

Kerith were well on top and Findlay himself hit the winner, for the second year running, with a fine 25 yard effort that was always just out of the keeper’s reach.

The victory means that Kerith Community Church are the second most successful team in the history of the Philmar Cup Final, behind Woodley Baptist Church who won the Cup in the inaugural season and four times after that.

DON’t MISS OUR AWARDS NIGHT ROUND-UP PAGES 4-5

SPORT

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West Reading win it for Monty

L

AST MONTH, we left West Reading CFC requiring a win in their last game on Saturday, May 4 to secure their first league title in 25 attempts.

A draw or loss would have provided Kerith Community Church with a chance of claiming a league and cup double.

Tragically, West Reading CFC preparations were thrown into the air the day before their final game against Wycliffe Wanderers when Mark “Monty” Montgomery was injured in a traffic accident and airlifted to hospital, fighting for his life.

Mark has played in the league for more than a decade and is a much respected person and footballer, renowned for his long range strikes.

The accident has brought out a sense of togetherness between teams in the league as we have come together to pray and support Mark, his family, friends and team mates.

And it is admirable that the West Reading squad should have even taken to the field a week later against Wycliffe Wanderers, let alone secure their first league title in 25 attempts, but winning their final match of the season seemed the most fitting way to respond at such a difficult time.

In front of their largest support this season, including Mark’s girlfriend Louise, any nerves dissipated as the visitors dominated the match. Despite creating a lot of first half chances, they struggled to actually score one until Dan Vaccaro-Senna was played through and smashed home his first goal for the club.

In the second half, a Jamie Carstairs double sealed the 3-0 win and ensured the championship would be theirs, and the club could rightly celebrate their achievement.

The entire league congratulates West Reading CFC for the way the players have responded and conducted themselves and, while praying for Mark’s recovery, sends heartfelt best wishes to Louise, Monty’s family and his friends.

With the title safely in West Reading CFC’s grasp, the final day of the TVCFL season on Saturday, May 18 meant that the battle for second place would be decided.

Ben Findlay’s late strike for Kerith

Colin Lowery Trophy winners were South Ealing and Brentford Picture: Jack Schofield Brookside drew level on points with Bethel but grabbed fourth on goal-difference.

With recent attention focused in the closest title race for years, there remained a largely forgotten battle for seventh place. Reading Saints have been on 17 points for weeks, but Norreys’ recent results and Greyfriars FC’s strong performances had given both a chance of claiming it. James Hern and Tom Barltrop had earned Greyfriars a 2-1 midweek win over West Reading Reserves which meant a win over Norreys on Saturday would allow them to leapfrog Saints.

A Norreys victory would see them close the gap on Saints to a single point and get the chance to overtake them when the two eventually meet to finish the season.

Greyfriars started the brightest and, in a largely one-sided half, created several good chances, one of which Steven Downes tucked past the keeper after chasing a ball to the by-line that everyone else thought was a lost cause. The second half continued in similar vein until George Weeks pounced on a weak clearance and lashed in a right foot shot from the edge of the area. Greyfriars remained positive and re-took the lead when Downes advancing unchallenged into the box and scored past the onrushing keeper. Within minutes they extended their advantage, with a Richard Prince header in.

There was still time for Norreys to set-up a nail biting Kerith Community 42 finish with eight minutes to West Reading 41 go when Barry Agar’s run into Wycliffe Wanderers 23 the box was unfairly halted in Brookside St Laurence 21 the penalty area; Weeks Tilehurst Albion 20 scored his second from the Brookside St Laurence 18 spot.

Tilehurst Albion 14 Greyfriars held on though, Wycliffe Wanderers 13 to secure the coveted seventh Tilehurst Albion 12 place; only a Saints victory Kerith Community 12 over Norreys can change any Greyfriars FC 12 of the league positions now.

Reading Saints 10 James Hern and Kerith Community 10 Chris Barltrop

Community Church earned him the golden boot – his 42nd league goal – putting him one ahead of league player of the year Jamie Carstairs, but it wasn’t enough to earn his team the runner-up spot.

Tilehurst Albion leapfrogged their rivals with a dominant first half display that yielded three goals, Steve Hannah, Josh Baines and Danny Lawrence doing the damage that resulted in a 3-1 win.

Bethel United started the day in fourth place but had to settle for fifth after a surprise 3-1 home defeat against Finchampstead Baptist Church. Despite Bethel having a good deal of possession and pressure, Josh Knowles hit two and Ash Carter the other as visitors Finch ended with a morale-boosting win.

Bethel’s loss meant the winners of Brookside Saint Laurence FC and Wycliffe Wanderers, which only a few weeks ago had seemed like it might be a potential title decider, would overtake them. Mike Sharp gave Wycliffe a first half lead with a stunning long-range strike that crashed in off the underside of the bar, but Ben Sheppard equalised minutes later, leaving the game delicately poised at half-time.

Dean Williams restored Wanderers’ lead in the second half, only for Sheppard to repeat his first half feat and earn his team a crucial point; the 2-2 draw meant that

league TABLE P W D L F A W D L F A GD PTS

West Reading 20 8 0 2 41 14 8 1 1 33 12 48 49 Tilehurst Albion 20 7 0 3 47 17 7 1 2 45 18 57 43 Kerith Community 20 7 2 1 51 16 6 1 3 44 20 59 42 B’side St Laurence 20 7 2 1 41 18 5 1 4 38 25 36 39 Bethel United 20 5 1 4 16 15 7 2 1 33 15 19 39 Wycliffe Wanderers 20 6 2 2 36 25 5 1 4 36 29 18 36

Greyfriars FC 20 4 0 6 30 21 2 0 8 14 28 -5 18 Reading Saints 19 2 1 6 17 38 3 1 6 21 40 -40 17

Norreys 19 1 2 7 21 49 3 0 6 23 40 -45 14 Finchampstead Bap’ 20 2 0 8 13 39 2 1 7 15 50 -61 13 W Reading Reserves 20 1 1 8 14 61 0 2 8 11 50 -86 6 League table as of May 23

top SCORERS

Ben Findlay

Jamie Carstairs Neil Healy

Ben Sheppard Steve Hannah

Courtenay Isaacs Danny Lawrence

Ross Thompson Declan Larkin

Lee Berry James Hern

Matt Blake Jonathan Ellis

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v Scrum on down for Tico Rice A KEEN rugby player and golfer who has devised one of the most popular courses for those looking to explore the Christian faith will be the special guest at a Wargrave service later this month.

Rico Tice, who leads All Souls Church in Langham Place, will take part in the Wargrave Festival on Sunday, June 30.

He will share his experiences of life at a special event which will be held in the festival marquee which is being erected in Mill Green.

Entry is free and it starts at 10.30am.

Afterwards, there will be a traditional family party, with games and entertainment for children of all ages. It starts at noon. v For more details, call the parish office on (0118) 940 2300 or email office@ wargravechurch.org.uk.

v Sports puzzler Two Olympic medal winners will host a sports quiz this month.

Peter Chambers and Debbie Flood, who both scooped silver medals for rowing in the London 2012 Games, will be at the quiz night at Greyfriars Church in Reading on Friday, June 14.

Tables cost £20 and teams can be between six and eight people; the entry fee includes a Ploughman’s supper. v www.greyfriars.org.uk.

v Football fun DADS looking to be more than an armchair spectator can join an indoor five-a-side football club.

Members of St James Finchampstead and St Mary and St John California churches hold a weekly session on Wednesdays at Yateley School sports hall.

Running from 8pm-9pm, the informal club welcomes all abilities and promises to be lots of fun.

The club also boasts regular socials and family events. v For more details, log on to parish.finchampstead.co.uk.

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Food

June 2013 | www.xnmedia.co.uk | To advertise call 01932 888417

FOOD NEWS

ADVANCE NUTRITION ptimising health , vitality & wellness O with Christine Bailey, nutritionist, chef and food/health consultant

v Stressed? Try changing your diet!

v

A MONTH-long celebration of all things food is hitting the streets of Reading this month.

Eat Reading has an emphasis on sourcing, growing, buying, cooking, eating and drinking quality food - and on supporting local food businesses.

The centrepiece is the Eat Reading Live festival, which will take over the town centre on Friday, June 7 and Saturday, June 8.

Running from 10am to 6pm each day, there will be food demonstrations from the experts, including Smelly Alley fishmeister, Kevin Little.

Eat Street will turn Broad Street into a street food market, with tasty bites from the town’s restaurants, bars and cafes including local legends Sweeney & Todd’s Pie Shop, and there will be a Farm Shop too. Entry is free. v For more, visit www. livingreading.co.uk/eatreading.

S

tress is a continual aspect of modern life. Whether it’s demands of work, financial worries, the stress of juggling the kids and family activities – it is no wonder that our adrenals are constantly under attack.

When we are ‘stressed’ our body secretes a range of hormones including cortisol to help us deal with whatever we are facing.

Even though cortisol has some positive functions, ongoing stress places a drain on our adrenals and ultimately our body’s secretion of cortisol can fall.

This is the relentless, grinding stress that wears people down day after day.

There are many effects of stress (see below right). Excess production as well as too little cortisol can bring about a range of symptoms. If you are concerned then seek advice from a qualified practitioner who can order an adrenal salivary stress test and offer dietary advice to support you.

Supporting your adrenals requires lifestyle and nutrition intervention. Ensure your diet is rich in quality protein, low glycemic foods to prevent blood sugar imbalances and nutrient dense. Adaptogenic herbs help the body adapt to stress and can be particularly useful. These can be used in recipes, drinks, tinctures or taken as a supplement. Examples include ashwagandha, rhodiola, holy basil, maca and panax ginseng.

To help stabilise blood sugar try including a teaspoon of cinnamon daily and switch to lower glycemic sweeteners such as xylitol, lucuma, stevia, coconut sugar or sweet freedom.

Try and include protein with each meal or snack too. Your adrenals also require a range of nutrients to function optimally including magnesium, vitamin C and B vitamins, especially B5.

Magnesium is well known as the calming mineral so include plenty of lightly cooked dark leafy greens, nuts and seeds. Try the following recipe to support your adrenals during those stressful moments.

Raw Maca and Cacao Chia Pudding Serves 2 n 250ml Almond milk or coconut milk n 60g/2oz chia seed n 2 tbsp raw cacao powder n 2 tsp maca powder n Pinch of ground cinnamon n 2 tbsp xylitol or Manuka honey n 2 tsp vanilla extract n 3tbsp desiccated coconut n Berries to decorate Place the milk and chia seed in a blender and leave to soak for 15 minutes. Add all the other ingredients and process until smooth and thick. If too thick add a little more of the milk.

Spoon into glasses. Top with fresh berries to serve.

For more information email christinembailey@hotmail.com or visit www.advancenutrition.co.uk

v Potential signs of adrenal dysfunction Long-term excess cortisol: v ‘Tired by wired’ v Anxiety v Negativity and depression v Poor sleep, problems staying asleep v Shakiness between meals, cravings for sugars and starchy foods v Irritability, on a ‘short fuse’ v Unable to deal with stressful situations v Exhaustion on waking v Weight gain around the abdomen v Adrenal fatigue v Excessive sleep, difficulty getting up in the morning

v Fatigue, apathy v Depression, tearfulness, SAD v Muscle and/or joint pains, fibromyalgia v Poor memory, concentration and motivation v Digestive symptoms v Weakened immune system, allergies, asthma v Dizziness with standing from sitting position v Neurodegenerative diseases such as Multiple Sclerosis and Alzheimer’s v Lowered libido v Thyroid problems and hormonal imbalances

FASHION

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ETHICAL LIVING

Changing the world, one purchase at a time

Be a Fairtrade star with this People Tree Roxy Top, £40. Available from www.peopletree.co.uk.

RISC, the ethical superstore in London Street, Reading has a new range of lamps to suit all homes. From statement items to practical lights, they have it. The range is made by Sunlover under Fairtrade principles, prices vary, from £29.99.

Out Of INDIA is a new ethical company that makes organic, fairtrade items including bedspreads, table linens and these delightful pyjamas. Made of soft 100% organic cotton, they can even double up as poolwear. They cost £70 per set and can be ordered from www.outofindiatextiles.com.

Have an ethical summer thanks to Traidcraft’s Fair Trade instant barbecue, £4.90 from RISC in Reading.

And you can also try these bamboo sunglasses. They’re from a range that costs from £55, available from www.colinleslieeyewear.co.uk

This M&S Organic wave rug is in green.

Not your colour?

Don’t worry, others are available. £49.50

Gamila Secret Face Oil contains a unique combination of the purest first pressed vegetable oils combined with Gamila’s secret herbal formula. This 100% natural Face Oil is rapidly absorbed by your skin and gives all the nutrition and care it needs. It replaces your serum as well as your day, night and eye creams and promises to make your skin healthy, soft and younger looking. The Anti-wrinkle Volume 50ml is exclusive to House of Fraser and costs £70 per bottle

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puzzles

June 2013 | www.xnmedia.co.uk | To advertise call 01932 888417

BREAK TIME

Pit your wits against our brainteasers

Codeword

Kakuro

Answers are now on p31

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.

Steve Vaughan-Turner www.drawingfromexperience.blogspot.com

2 6

5 4 5

SUDOKU Suduko

Medium

4

6 5 8 7 3 4

7 3

6

8

9 6

9

6

4

4 3

1 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.

© 2011 Syndicated Puzzles, Inc.

7

3 4 2 9

4 2

7

Medium

5

6

8 3

3 5 8 9

5 3 2 2 1 1 5 4

5

1 3 6 1 7 4

© 2011 Syndicated Puzzles, Inc.

STR8TS Str8ts

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.

Use a PC? This church newsletter is a work of art!!

ARTS

ARTS

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29

Music, drama, comedy with a local perspective

LIVE MUSIC

Elisabeth sings up for Verdi show

A

fter an acclaimed, sell-out performance of The Creation, Henley Choral Society and Southern Sinfonia are once again teaming up for an evening of music.

This year, they will perform Verdi’s thrilling Requiem at Reading Concert Hall.

For the show, the society’s inspirational young musical director Will Dawes will conduct more than 200 performers on stage including full symphony orchestra, a double chorus and an outstanding cast of soloists: soprano Elisabeth Meister, mezzo-soprano Kate SymondsJoy, tenor David Butt Philip and bass James Oldfield.

Said to be one of the greatest works ever composed, the Requiem runs the gamut of emotions from the terror created by the wall of sound in the Day of Judgement, to superb evocations of sorrow, tenderness, longing and regret.

Soprano Elisabeth Meister will sing Verdi’s Requiem

ON STAGE

v Theatre tackles the Scottish play TALENTED actors are busy preparing for the play which dare not speak its name.

Members of Progress Theatre in Reading will be returning to Caversham Court Gardens in July for an open-air performance of Shakespeare’s Scottish play.

Macbeth is one of the Bard’s most powerful tragedies and will be staged in the beautiful gardens next to the River Thames from Thursday, July 18 to Saturday, July 27.

“Book early for this event,as it often sells out in advance,” says Tony Wernham from the theatre.

The theatre regularly uses Park URC in East Reading as rehearsal space. v For more details, log on to www.progresstheatre.co.uk or call Reading Arts box office on (0118) 960 6060.

Laughter and fun at musical

A SHOW that fuses pantomime with opera will be coming to Henley’s Kenton Theatre at the end of the month.

Kit Hesketh-Harvey’s new production of The Magic Flute focuses on the opening night of Mozart’s famous opera, back in 1791.

With an eclectic mix of lofty divas and low comedians, plus all the popular tunes from the much-loved opera, this is a night that promises to be fun.

It is staged by the Merry Opera Company, which aims to make opera accessible for all and remove the stuffiness associated with the genre.

The group recently staged – to critical acclaim – a version of Handel’s Messiah in Christ Church, Henley.

The Magic Flute will be performed on Saturday, June 29, for one night only. Tickets cost £16, or £15 for concessions. v For more details, call the box office on (01491) 575698.

Elisabeth is an alumna of the Jette Parker Young Artists Programme at the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden.

Kate has drawn high praise in performances at the Barbican and the Royal Albert Hall; David has performed at Glynbourne and the Royal Opera House, while James Oldfield has worked with include appearances the London Symphony Orchestra, and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, among others.

The Saturday, June 8 show will be Will Dawes’ last as the society’s musical director.

A spokesperson said: “It will be an exceptional farewell. If you love spectacle, if you love opera, if you love drama – join us for a sensational musical experience” v Tickets cost £16, or £12 for under 18s. For details, call (01491) 572795 or (0118) 960 6060 or log on to www.readingarts.com.

v Sinfonia concert MUSIC from Stravinsky, Sibelius and Respighi will be performed by the West Forest Sinfonia later this month.

The orchestra, conducted

by Philip Ellis, will be returning to St Paul’s Church in Reading Road, Wokingham, for their summer concert. Taking place at 7.30pm on Sunday, June 23, the group will perform four pieces of music.

The group will also be performing on Sunday, July 7 at 7.30pm in South Hill Park’s recital room. v For more details on these concerts, log on to www. westforestsinfonia.org.

v Taste Africa A TASTE of Africa will be coming to Reading later this month and everyone is invited to join the party.

The Africa Day celebration will include opportunities to sample food, culture, music and dance from the mighty continent and will include a performance by the new contemporary Gospel music choir Lifted.

It will be held from 4.30pm at St Andrew’s URC in London Road, Reading on Saturday, June 15. v For more details, log on to standrewsurcreading.org.uk.

v Birthday concert A CONCERT by the Hurst Singers is one of the ways a church is celebrating its 125th anniversary.

St John The Baptist in Caversham will welcome the choir for an evening of summer music on Saturday, July 6. Featuring a selection of popular songs from the sixties, the concert starts at 7.30pm.

Tickets cost £8 and can be bought on the door.

The St John’s Road church will also welcome the Bishop of Reading, the Rt Revd Andrew Proud, for a confirmation service on Wednesday, June 19, at 7.30pm. v For more details, call (0118) 974 5120.

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ARTS

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v It’s showtime for Festival Chorus MUSIC from operas and songs from the shows are the subject matter for Reading Festival Chorus’ summer concert.

Taking place at Wesley Methodist Church, Reading on Saturday, June 15, the concert costs £12 for adults, £10 for concessions or £2 for under 16s. v For details call 0118 947 9714 or log on to www. readingfestivalchorus.org.uk

v Victorian values TRAVEL back in musical time to Victorian and Edwardian eras for the next concert by the Twyford Singers.

The popular choir will perform at Loddon Hall in Twyford on Saturday, June 29 at 7.30pm.

Tickets are available by calling (0118) 969 8326. v For more details, log on to www.twyfordsingers.org.uk

Tamesis ready for grand finale The final concert in Tamesis Chamber Choir’s 10th anniversary season promises to be an exhilarating evening of sacred music to inspire and delight.

Choir and audience members and Tamesis fans voted for the programme in this and the year’s other two concerts – and they will be performed at its show, which takes place at Douai Abbey in Upper Woolhampton next month.

The choir’s musical director, Louise Rapple, said: “Our loyal supporters have helped us grow into a nationally recognised choir over the past decade. To say thank you, we let them choose their favourite pieces for our A La Carte season.”

A Summer Feast is the concert’s title and the programme will include Bach’s rousing Lobet den Herrn, Monteverdi’s energetic

Beatus Vir and Mendelssohn’s Ave Maria.

There will also be some more reflective works, including Allegri’s Miserere mei, Lauridsen’s O magnum mysterium and Gorecki’s Totus tuus.

Tamesis will also perform Bruckner’s Locus iste, Howells’ Take Him Earth For Cherishing, Casals’ O Vos Omnes and Purcell’s Hear My Prayer.

The choir are expecting a packed house, as its loyal audience members come to enjoy their top picks, joining Douai Abbey’s regular and appreciative musical audience.

New fans are very welcome: since the launch of its second professional recording, Remembrance, in aid of ABF The Soldiers’ Charity, Tamesis’ fan base has grown further locally and across the UK. Louise added: “Sacred music was the category most voted for in our A La Carte season: we’re delighted that Douai Abbey is welcoming us back as the spectacular and inspiring venue for this wonderful programme.”

The concert takes place on Saturday, July 13 from 7.45pm.

Tickets cost £12 or £8 for concessions. v For details, log on to http://tickets.tames.is or call (0118) 934 3200.

v A crafty place A MONTHLY craft event is celebrating its fifth birthday.

In that time, The Crafty Space has helped with everything from wedding preparations to prom tiaras; from holiday scrapbooks to making scenery for children’s holiday clubs.

It meets on the third Saturday of the month apart from August and December at St Catherine’s Hall, Wittenham Avenue Tilehurst, RG31 5LN (opposite Birch Copse School) from 1.30pm-5.30pm.

Organisers Val Poore and Caroline O’Sullivan say: “We provide time and the space you need to spread out to do your activity, as well as the allimportant tea, coffee and cake.

“All we ask in return is a donation to cover costs. We suggest £1.25 per hour which works out at £5 if you stay for the whole four hours.

“We’re not experts, but we’ve solved a lot of crafting problems together over the years.”

The next meetings are June 15, July 20 and September 21. v Log on to www.facebook. com/CraftySpace

v Go Under The Sea with free concerts A CHOIR is all at sea … but don’t worry, they’re waving, not drowning.

The Reading A440 Choir will taking its latest show to a trio of venues, giving everyone across the Thames Valley the chance to enjoy the show.

Its Under The Sea show will feature original artwork by local artist MaryAnn Luyten, and music arranged by local composer, Gwyn Arch MBE. Ray Burton, a well known actor will be the narrator of the three stories, All at Sea, Over the Sea to Skye, and The Mermaid.

The choir was founded in January 2011 with the express intent of showcasing choral music in a fresh and non-traditional way and it’s intending to do just that with its summer shows, which are part of the Reading Proms season.

The choir’s passion is for bringing entertainment to everyone by offering free original shows and working

The A440 Choir will give three performances this month with local artists.

You can catch Under The Sea at All Saints Church, Dunsden Green on Friday, June 21 at 7.30pm. It then sails to St Laurence Church in Reading’s town centre at can be heard at

7.30pm on Saturday, June 22.

Finally, the end of the line will be a 4pm performance at the Oakwood Centre in Woodley on Sunday, June 23. v For more information, log on to www.a440choir.com.

v Musical duo come to Caversham A FLUTE and harp duo will team up for the latest concert at St Andrew’s Church in Caversham.

Rachel Wick and Tom Hancox has performed all over the world.

Now, they’ll perform works by Bach, Ibert and Piazolla in the Albert Road Church. It takes place on Saturday, June 22 from 7.30pm. For more details, call (0118) 948 4112.

What do you think? Have your say on our Facebook page or tweet us @xnmedia

ARTS

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Moviewatch New Trek is a wonderful Spock-tacle Cinema with Martin Ceaser

v Star Trek Into Darkness (12a)

It’s great Jim, and don’t we know it! The new Star Trek film is a great piece of cinema

Stars Chris Pine, Zachary Quinto, Zoe Saldana, Benedict Cumberbatch

S

imply stunning. Awesome. Brilliant.

Hilarious. Nail Biting.

Star Trek Into Darkness is one of the best sequels I have ever seen.

Directed once again by JJ Abrams, this second instalment of the new look Star Trek reunites the stars of the first film (Chris Pine, who could be related to William Shatner he looks so much like him in his youth; Zachary Quinto as Spock; Karl Urban as Bones; Zoe Saldana as Uhura; and the wonderful Simon Pegg as Scotty), and introduces Benedict Cumberbatch, a long way from 221B Baker Street, as the seemingly superhuman villain Khan.

The story begins on a newly evolving planet where we are treated to the sight of the Enterprise rising out of the sea, but swiftly returns to Earth where an explosion in a supposed library leads to an interstellar man hunt led by Kirk and the crew.

The film is full of dramatic twists and turns, with some stunning special effects (especially when the Enterprise goes into warp speed) and nods towards the original series.

Along the way we see the growing bond of friendship between Kirk and Spock marked by humour and a growing mutual respect. Quinto’s Spock has a larger human side than Leonard Nimoy’s original, but it works.

We observe the iconic Vulcan Death Grip, meet the warlike Klingons – ready for episode three, no doubt – and are treated to a brief cameo from Mr Nimoy.

If the stories continue to develop as

well as the first two have, this new Star Trek series will, I believe, outstrip the old and, dare I say it, the Star Wars franchise – although Mr Abrams is directing the next one of those.

The final word goes to Mr Spock (with apologies if I don’t get it 100% word for word) “A miracle? There’s no such thing.”

Discuss!

The Revd Martin Ceaser is minister of Crowthorne Baptist Church

v Picturehouse brings Shakespeare to the big screen HIGHLIGHTS from the Globe Theatre’s 2012 season will soon be on the big screen.

Henley’s Picture House will be screening Twelth

Night, starring Stephen Fry, The Taming of the Shrew and Henry V. The cinema will also be screening 12 matinees on Mondays from June 3,

CONCERTS

v Two nights of lovely music in store

v Summer songs

films and shows.

The first performance will be held at St Mary Magdalene Church Hall in Rodway Road, Tilehurst on Thursday, June 20. The second will be the following evening, and take place at St Agnes Church Hall in Northumberland Avenue, Whitley.

Entry is £8, or £4 for under 16s. v For more details, call (0118) 942 5290 or log on to www. readingconcertsingers.org.uk.

A NATIVE AMERICAN wedding song will be sung later this month and organisers hope you’ll fall in love with it.

Reading Concert Singers is gearing up for a double-header of music for its summer concert which will be held over two nights.

Hiawatha’s Wedding Feast is the title song from the concert, which will also include romantic and bridal music composed by Gilbert and Sullivan, as well as from

THE CROWTHORNE Village Singers are gearing up for their summer concert, which will be held on Wednesday, June 5.

The evening of music will raise funds for Crowthorne Stroke and Disabled Club.

It starts at 8pm and will be held at St John The Baptist Church, Waterloo Road, Crowthorne.

Tickets cost £5 and can be reserved by calling (01344) 780604 or bought on the door.

SOLUTIONS

including The Pink Panther, Some Like It Hot and West Side Story. v For more details, log on to www.picturehouses. co.uk.

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v Lunchtime organ concerts MONDAY lunchtimes will be filled with the sound of music.

St Mark’s in Cranbury Road, Reading will welcome some talented organists to entertain you.

The concert series starts with the home side: St Mark’s director of music David Phillips will perform on Monday, June 3.

A week later, Martin Seymour, director of music from All Saints’ Church in Marlow will be the guest. On June 17, Philip Luke will come from Bloomsbury Central Baptist Church in London. On June 24, it will be the turn of Nicholas Mannoukas, Organ Scholar of All Saints’ Church, Margaret Street, London.

The season ends on July 1 when David Phillips teams up with his wife Katharine.

All concerts run from 1.10pm to 1.50pm and entry is free. v St Giles in Reading is holding two lunchtime organ recitals this month.

Ian May, St Giles’ organist, at performs on Wednesday, June 12. Christine Wells, from St Mary’s Hambleden, appears on June 26. Both start at 1.15pm.

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Codewords

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Str8ts Str8ts Solution

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6 9 1 4 2 3 5 7 8

5 4 2 7 8 6 1 9 3

8 7 3 5 1 9 6 4 2

2 5 7 1 9 8 4 3 6

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Suduko Sudoku Solution

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9 2 5 8 4 7 3 6 1

4 1 6 3 5 2 9 8 7

7 3 8 9 6 1 2 5 4

Kakuro