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October 2013

Thames Valley region ISSN 2049-4971

Henley, Reading & Wokingham districts

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NEWS

October 2013 | www.xnmedia.co.uk | To advertise call 0118 328 2959

v Why Advent?

HAVE YOU ever wondered why we have Advent calendars? Or why the period before Christmas is called Advent?

Two new lectures next month will help explain more about the run-up to Christmas.

Organised by Reading’s Catholic churches, they will take place from 7.30pm to 9pm at St William of York on Wednesday, November 13, and at Christ the King in Whitley on November 20.

The first – The Meaning of Advent – will explain the significance with reference to Scripture and the Liturgy.

The second – A Tool Kit for a Holy Advent – will focus on guiding people on ways to celebrate spiritually and practically.

It will be enlivened by a market place of stalls, where visitors can learn how to make commemorative decorations and access resources. v For more,log on to www. jameswilliam-reading.org.uk

v Poverty lecture A lecture about poverty in the UK will be held at the University of Reading on Wednesday, October 23, from 7.30pm.

It will be held in the Henley Business School and be given

by Paul Morrison, Policy Advisor on the Economy ( including Poverty) and Inequality to the the Baptist Union and Methodist and URC Churches.

v The con is off You’re invited to find out why a Chief Constable ordered the shredding of a former prisoner’s criminal record – from the prisoner himself.

Ron Sims will be speaking at Sandhurst and Yateley Methodist church on Sunday, October 13 at 6.30pm.

The former criminal is a special guest and will be sharing his amazing life story of how he turned his life around. All are welcome. v www.sandhurstmethodist. org.uk

stands up thanks to Your favourite magazine is standing proud this ionth, thanks to the generosity of Premier Office Supplies.

The Reading-based company has donated 100 display stands so that Xn can be placed in even more shops, offices and cafés across the Thames Valley.

Editor Phil Creighton said: “This is a brilliant gift – we’re looking forward to using them to help more people get their hands on good news from our region.”

Mike Penson, director of Premier Office Supplies said: “We are delighted to support Xn magazine.

“As a local business we value their work of encouraging and supporting churches and the local community. We also love the positive message it brings to the Thames Valley and beyond.” v If you’d like a display stand for your business, then please get in touch.

Mick Penson Email distribution@xnmedia.co.uk. v For more on Premier Office Supplies, from Premier visit www.premier-office-supplies.co.uk Office Supplies

Volunteers transform old bedsit

BY PHIL CREIGHTON A TEAM of volunteers have transformed an old bedsit into a new centre for older people.

Trinity Place, a sheltered housing unit just off of the Oxford Road in Reading, officially opened The Courtyard on Thursday, September 26.

Older people will be able to use the centre for demonstrations, activities and craft workshops, cookery courses, Indian head massage, and seated exercise classes.

Activities will be provided

by Trinity Place staff, residents and volunteers. Although it will initially be for residents only, the plan is to open the doors to all sheltered housing residents from across Reading.

The refurbishment has

Cllr Marian Livingston, the Mayor of Reading, cuts the ribbon to officially open Trinity Place’s new Courtyard Picture: Lynda Bowyer

been carried out in a voluntary basis by members of Reading Borough Council’s sheltered housing team, who raised money and shared their skills to make this happen.

It follows on from the Council’s Lets Talk Care consultation in which many older people said they wanted

flexible activities that fit in with their lifestyles.

Rachel Eden, Reading Lead Councillor for Adult Social Care, said: “The Courtyard is now a welcoming and stimulating environment with a sensory garden and activities room and it is wonderful the way staff and residents have

given up their own time to set this up.

“It’s exactly the sort of facility that older people have told us they want to see more of, with activities to help residents enhance and share their skills, take up new hobbies or catch up with friends.”

There’s MORE news on our website!

We can’t fit everything into the print edition, so log on to xnmedia.co.uk and get the latest news! v Refrubishment sees church open up

v Help if you have lost a loved one

A COMMUNITY church is opening its doors for a weekend of fun to celebrate the refurbishment of its chapel and hall.

Sandhurst Baptist Church is holding a fun day on Saturday, October 26 from 10am-4pm. There will be music, fun for children and light lunches.

Then on Sunday, October 27, there will be more fun from 2pm4pm, followed by a Songs of Praise service at 5pm.

Entry is free and there is parking in Sandhurst Library and Community Centre.

Fay Cumberland, church secretary said: “We at SBC would love to see you at our Open Weekend – everyone’s very welcome to come along and celebrate with us.” v For details, log on to www.sandhurstbaptists.org.uk

IF YOU have lost a loved one and struggling to cope, a new course may help.

The Bereavement Course is suitable for anyone who has been bereaved, whether recently or dating back several years. Based on Christian principles, the course is suitable for everyone with or without a faith – but organisers warn that attendance is not advisable for those who have been bereaved within the past three months.

It looks at four issues: attachment, separation and loss; death in our culture; The pain of grief and adjusting to change.

The course is launching on Tuesday, October 8, from 7pm and takes place at the Kerith Centre in Church Road, Bracknell. v For more details, log on to www.kerith.co.uk.

This month

This is your magazine

The fair phone

Giddy up! 6

Contact us with your stories, it’s really easy: email editor@xnmedia.co.uk write to Xn Media, 60 London Street, Reading RG1 4SQ. We look forward to hearing from you!

Xn is published by Xn Media.

ISSN 2049-4971 c/o Quench, 60 London Street, Reading RG1 4SQ www.xnmedia.co.uk Twitter: @xnmedia

Dancing for life 30

Editor & publisher Phil Creighton editor@xnmedia.co.uk Distribution Judith Creighton judith@xnmedia.co.uk Contributors Lynda Bowyer, Michael Penny, Steve VaughanTurner, Sally Hamblin, Steve Prince, James Hern, Sharon Elliott, Martin Ceasar, Chris Carter, Jane Clark, Jessica Hall Thanks to Quench, Michael Penny, Alan Magness, Louise Cole, Mary Brockington, Rob Wilson, Reading Family Church, Alok Sharma, Nick Crowder, Andrew Taylor, Reading Football Club, Stephanie Dowdell Local advertising Erica Coxall 0118 328 2959 advertising@xnmedia.co.uk National 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

Guest 9

Food gifts

Family fun day 12

From the editor

Phil Creighton ‘ Sir John is a community champion and takes great interest in helping the Reading area’

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CTOBEr has to be my favourite month of the year – not least as my birthday is at the end of it!

There’s the leaves falling off the trees, the conker season, the clocks going back and the delicious smells of home cooking as the harvest produce is used up.

It’s that delightful fusion of happy memories, new memories and fun memories that make October special for me.

It’s been a privilege to do some stargazing this month – Sir John Madejski for our big interview. Both of us have worked at the Reading Post before launching our own magazines.

Sir John is a community champion and takes great interest in helping the Reading area in whatever way he can. His interview is illuminating, but what really struck me is his modesty. He refused to take any credit for his achievements, instead praising his team for what they’ve done. Despite his high position, even Sir John knows there’s no ‘i’ in team. What a great guy he is. editor@xnmedia.co.uk

Trek 28

Contents 4 The main event 6 News 14 Business 16 The big interview 18 Trades directory 20 What’s on Two pages of community events 22 Family circle 24 Sport The return of the Thames Valley Churches football league 25 Puzzles 26 Food Back to school 27 Ethical shopping Brilliant buys to help the planet 28 Arts New plays, concerts and films

Get in touch! email stories to editor@xnmedia.co.uk Deadline for November issue Friday, Oct 18

the main event

PICTURES: LAUNCHPAD

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NIGHT to raise awareness of Reading’s homeless and much-needed funds for a charity that works with them has been hailed a resounding success after netting an astonishing £15,000.

More than 60 people took part in Launchpad’s Big Sleep Out, held at Queen Anne’s School in Caversham.

They slept out in the school’s grounds with just cardboard and a sleeping bag for comfort on Friday, August 30.

Participants included staff from Nando’s restaurant and community campaigner Paul Farmer.

The Big Sleepers were treated to a secret gig by BBC One’s Matt Allwright and his band The Swerves.

Launchpad’s Amanda Rose said this part of the night felt quite surreal.

She explained: “During Matt’s performance of The Stone Roses She Bangs The Drums’ Santander’s Kelly Cox walked past in her tiger onesie!”

The Watchdog host wasn’t the only musician taking part. The Swing Monkeys opened the sleepout with a gig in the Queen Anne’s sports hall.

Big Sleep Out participants, their families and friends were the first members of the public to see the Launchpad film I Was The One, starring Launchpad clients and produced with the help of a Big Lottery Grant.

The results of the ‘build your own shelter’ competition were announced and certificates presented by Reading’s

Mayor, Cllr Marian Livingston.

Amanda said that Calcot Services for Children (CSFC) were worthy winners with their shelter decorated with handprints from the staff and children who helped to build it.

Launchpad’s client representative talked about his experience of being supported by the charity. He concluded his moving contribution by stating simply, “You need a stable home to move on in life”.

Amanda said: “This is our vision at Launchpad - we believe everyone in Reading should have a safe place to live that they can call home. And everyone deserves a second chance, even if they’ve made the odd mistake along the way.”

When morning came, the participants said the biggest challenge had been the sound of snoring keeping them awake.

The weather stayed dry and everybody agreed that this tiny glimmer into the life of a rough sleeper was far from the real challenge many face in Reading each night.

Launchpad is grateful to Queen Anne’s School for the use of their facilities.

Amanda added: “Thank you to everyone who took part, donated, volunteered and supported the event. You helped raise over £15,000 for vulnerable people in Reading.” vPlans are already being made for the next Big Sleep Out, for details, email eleanor.buckley@launchpadreading. org.uk.

the main event

Night riders

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News

October 2013 | www.xnmedia.co.uk | To advertise call 0118 328 2959

v Support for babyloss parents PARENTS who have lost a baby are being offered the opportunity to remember them at a special event to mark Babyloss Awareness Week.

St Nicolas Church Earley is hosting a service of remembrance for babies lost before and shortly after birth. It will include music, poetry and prayers as well as the lighting of candles in remembrance of babies born too soon.

The Revd Emma Major, a curate from the church who has experienced babyloss, is helping to organise the service on Sunday, October 13, from 7pm.

She said: “The service is one way in which we can support parents who have lost a baby too soon. It is an uplifting, encouraging event and everyone is welcome.”

Two days earlier, on Friday, October 11, she will launch a book of poetry that she has written about babyloss. This Is My Story, This Is My Song has already been selling on Kindle ebook format and will now be released as a physical book.

The launch event starts at 8pm and will be also be held at St Nicolas.

Emma’s blogs have been shortlisted in the Butterfly Awards. The results will be announced later this month. v A longer version of this story is on our website, www. xnmedia.co.uk.

WE PRINT 16,000 COPIES EACH MONTH! TO ADVERTISE CALL 0118 328 2959

Getting to church is neigh bother Friends, supporters and staff at the launch of The Link’s new office

WHEN Jane Havelock of St Peter’s Church in Caversham needed transport to take part in Ride & Stride, she saddled up!

The annual fundraising day for historic churches on September 14 saw her ride Brandy from St Margaret’s Church, Mapledurham to St Peter’s.

She was one of many taking part in the day, including the Revd Michael Oake (top) from St George’s Tilehurst and Rosemary Appleby from St Peter’s and St Paul’s in Shiplake.

School meals plan praised

BY PHIL CREIGHTON GOVERNMENT plans for free school meals for children aged 5-7 have been welcomed.

The Children’s Society has been running the Fair and Square campaign after learning that more than half of all school-age children living in poverty aren’t getting free school meals. It says that these 1.2 million children may not be eating a single nutritious meal all day.

Nick Clegg announced the plan to make free school meals available to 1.4 million more children during their first three years at school. The policy will launch in September 2014.

A free school meal will be offered to all school children in reception, year 1 and year 2. Also, 160,000 disadvantaged college students will be offered a free school meal.

Matthew Reed, Chief Executive of The Children’s Society, said: “This latest move clearly shows that the Government is recognising the hardship that thousands of families are facing.

This will lead to 200,000 more poor children being given the chance to get a free, nutritious meal at school.”

The campaign has been supported by the Diocese of Oxford. The Rt Revd John Pritchard, Bishop of Oxford, said: “There is a clear moral case for all children in poverty to have the right to free school meals.”

Rob Wilson, MP for Reading East, welcomed the move. “A Government report in the summer contained clear evidence that where Universal Free School Meals for 5-7 yearolds have been piloted, children’s academic results increased significantly. Many of the children had significantly improved diets, moving from sandwiches and fizzy drinks to proper meals at lunchtime.

“I did my own local survey on the impact of fizzy drinks earlier this year and at least one primary school in my constituency has told me of their concerns about the impact that bad diets and lack of proper nutrition was having on its pupils.”

“However, I do hope that schools will have some discretion as to how they spend the money. Not all schools and parents will feel that this is what their children need most.”

The initiative was welcomed by Rob White, Green Party councillor for Park Ward, Reading.

He said: “Providing free, healthy school lunches is the common sense solution to tackling so many of the problems facing our children and their parents today.” v A longer version of this story is on our website, www.xnmedia.co.uk.

v Make a bid to help Syria fund BIDDERS are invited to take a punt … but only if they do so quietly.

Caversham Heights Methodist Church is holding a Silent Auction on Saturday, October 19. Bids will be accepted between 10.30am and noon, with all proceeds going to help Syrian refugees.

Donated gifts may be left at the church between 7pm and 9pm the night before, or on the day from 9.30am and 10.30am.

Gifts may be of any value, new or second-hand and the highest bidder will win them.

There will be a homemade cake stall and refeshments.

All proceeds will go to help Syrian refugees that include a million innocent children.

Robin Gowers said: “In 2010, we held a very successful and enjoyable silent suction in aid of Haiti earthquake victims, there was a tremendous range of goods including a canoe – we are promised another one this time!” v For details and directions, visit www.cavhmc.org.uk

News

To advertise call 0118 328 2959 | www.xnmedia.co.uk | October 2013

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care!

It’s YOUR NHS – have your say! Take Make the most of life

A call to action: Help develop a healthy Wokingham community

with Philip Keohane

A care sector in crisis?

Wokingham Borough residents discuss options at a previous Have Your Say meeting

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HS Wokingham Clinical Commissioning Group is responsible for commissioning (buying-in) and managing most of hospital and community health care services in the Borough.

The CCG has responsibility for approximately 155,000 patients and an annual budget of £145m. With GPs from Wokingham holding the purse strings, the CCG aims to involve local people in planning the health services.

David Cook, Lay Member, Public and Patient Engagement for the CCG, discusses why it’s more important to be involved with NHS now than ever before.

Is this a Machiavellian move by current politicians to shift the blame of a failing NHS from Government to the people?

Or is it giving the patient and the public a much greater say in the future of healthcare? I think it’s the latter.

I believe we, the public, have to start taking control of our own health and be less reliant on a ‘nanny state’. We cannot expect someone else to provide all the solutions to our, sometimes, selfinflicted problems.

The facts are there for all to see. We are heading towards a perfect storm of an ageing population, a more demanding population together with constrained resources and rising costs.

Small changes will not give the answer to these challenging clashing forces.

Healthcare needs transformational change. An integrated approach, with all providers getting together with users and discussing real viable options, shared resources, shared budgets, shared expectations, is the way forward.

I have deliberately said healthcare because too often we, and the media, equate health and wellbeing to the NHS, whereas the NHS is only one piece of this complex jigsaw labelled ‘Health’.

The other pieces being nutrition, diet, exercise, public health, social care and lifestyle, all of which

contribute to a preventive non-clinical solution to better health. And in many of these areas the responsibility lies with the public.

The fact still remains that the NHS cannot continue to provide clinical help and support for future generations in the way it does today. It has to change; doing nothing is not an option.

The NHS will have to make decisions around what it can afford to deliver.

There are choices to be made and that’s why I believe we, the public, are being engaged in this debate. We are being asked how we want the money spent and resources utilised for the good of the wider community and to retain a viable NHS for another 65 years.

Shame on us if we keep silent and don’t voice an opinion. It is easy to be an armchair critic and continue to criticise and be disparaging about the NHS. My call to action is for the people of Wokingham to get together and engage in the debate to keep Wokingham high in the league tables regarding years of healthy living -- 69.4 for men and 70.2 for women (Office for National Statistics, 18 Sept 2013) – by creating the future of an integrated local health service provision.

We are on a journey of discovery and challenge. There was the Patient Revolution back in July 2013 where several Wokingham residents shared their views.

We held another debate on September 3 at our Governing Body public meeting and there will be another opportunity to share your views on Tuesday, November 19, from 10am to 1 pm at the Oakwood Centre Woodley.

Let’s have your views and thoughts.

You will need to register your attendance by emailing ppiteam. berkshire@nhs.net or calling on 0118 982 2709. v If you cannot make the meeting in November, send an e-mail, give us a call or even write a letter.

For contact details visit www. wokinghamccg.nhs.uk.

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ver the last few months the elderly care sector has suffered yet more bad publicity, largely based around poor standards of care and compounded with this, serious allegations of widespread abuse of elderly people in their own homes by family, neighbours and professional carers.

Liberal Democrat MP Paul Burstow is urging the Prime Minister to toughen up the proposed Care Bill to ensure that those who neglect and abuse elderly people in the community will become far more likely to be caught and prosecuted for their actions in the future.

I fully endorse Mr Burstow’s mission to protect our vulnerable elder members of society from those who would seek to take advantage of them. I wholeheartedly support his proposals to improve the legal framework around these matters to make it easier to identify and punish such wrongdoing.

I also vehemently wish that the reporting of such matters could be somewhat more balanced. Across the country there are many people working as carers. Some are family members caring for the elderly relatives; some are good neighbours who pop by to check on friends to see to their needs; others work in paid or voluntary employment with specialist organisations such as Home Instead or for public sector organisations. Pretty much all of the people I come across, share the same keen desire to improve the lives of those they come into contact with.

The admiration that I have for those that work in this sector is immense. There is hardly a day that goes by without me learning of yet another person or group that is striving to help those in their care, frequently with little recognition or reward.

For me, and many of my colleagues in this sector, one of our greater challenges is in recruiting people to work with us. For many, the prospect of spending significant amounts of time helping other people’s mums and dads to do the things that most of us take for granted is not a pleasing one. However, with more of us living longer this will in turn lead to even greater demand for support services for the elderly in the years to come. Companies like Home Instead Senior Care and other care professionals are dependent on the continued support of people from any age or background in the community who enjoy sharing their time with others.

Healthcare market analysts Lang & Buisson recently published a league table to show compliance rates of at home care providers from across the UK. The overall scores achieved by the care providers (Home Instead included) were very impressive, indicating a general quality far removed from the pictures Mr Burstow paints. Yet, there was hardly a murmur.

The unbalanced barrage of bad news stories does not help us in our quest. This sector is an immensely rewarding one to work in and we seek to encourage people to share in this.

So come on please, national media, let’s tell the whole story for a change.

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

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News

October 2013 | www.xnmedia.co.uk | To advertise call 0118 328 2959

v City scruntiny WITH the global credit crunch being attributed to everything from toxic loans to rogue traders, it’s no wonder that the way in which our financial institutions operate is coming under scrutiny.

A seminar later this month will see a CEO of a major bank come and will explore what’s gone wrong in the city and explain how to fix it.

Jeremy Marshall, who heads up C Hoare & Co, a private bank, is the special guest at the event, which will be held on Friday, October 25, from 7.45pm.

Organised by Reading@ Work, the Industrial Christian Fellowship and the Reading Churches Men’s Group, it will take place at Greyfriars Church, Friar Street in Reading. v For more details, log on to www.readingatwork.org.

v Corrections & clarifications

In the last issue, we got a digit wrong in JAC’s phone number.

It is 0118 944 1444. Apologies. v if you spot an error, please email editor@xnmedia.co.uk.

Giving back to the community

Before and after ... a Community Payback group helped turn a jungle into a well-tended graveyard

BY Andy Clark A churchyard clean-up at St Paul’s Wokingham was given a boost thanks to some extra hands.

Here, Andy gives his eye-witness account It was the third Saturday of the month, our normal day for churchyard maintenance.

The usual crowd turned up, ready to take on the long grass, brambles and nettles that have inundated our churchyard since the warm wet weather arrived in April.

We were joined by the Bracknell Community Payback group. Working together we tackled a mound of grave spoil which has blighted the churchyard for years; mowed areas around the church footprint and the north side of the yard; we waded into the waist high bracken.

It was great to see how motivated

everyone is. They wanted to get on and with our churchyard they really could see the difference their efforts made.

At the end of the day we had cleared most of the west end of the churchyard, mowed the important areas around the church, cleared the mound of soil, removed all the bracken, cut the hedges and built a bonfire ready for the next session. It was an excellent day with our regulars working alongside the Community Payback workers to make a very positive impact in our churchyard. We could all share the satisfaction of a job well done.

Even better they are coming again on a regular basis. v To arrange a Community Payback visit, contact Fiona House, the Placement Manager, on 0118 956 0466 or email Fiona.House@thames-valley. probation.gsi.gov.uk.

Enjoy silk painting and help Still The Hunger IF YOU’VE ever wanted to try the fine art of silk painting, you should book Saturday, November 23 in your diary now.

Still The Hunger is teaming up with Yvonne Bell, who exhibited at New Wine conference this year, for a workshop day.

Beverley Hutton, who leads Still The Hunger said: “It’s an ideal opportunity to meet the team and find out a bit more about Still the Hunger for those who are maybe exploring what support is available, as well as for anybody wanting to see Yvonne at work and learn how to do silk painting.”

Places cost £40 and include all materials and lunch. Places are limited so people need to book early to avoid disappointment. v For details, visit www. stillthehunger.co.uk or call 07733 330705.

v Send some love in a shoebox READERS are being asked to help put a smile on children’s faces this Christmas by filling a shoebox with presents.

Churches across the Thames Valley will once again act as collection points for Operational Christmas Child, an annual campaign that takes shoeboxes and sends them to needy children all over the world. In many cases, it is the first gift they will have ever received.

To take part, simply fill a shoebox with gifts, toiletries and sweets.

Last year, members of Wesley Methodist Church collected, checked and crated up more than 3,000 shoeboxes and will do the same again this year.

A working party will meet at 84 Queen’s Road from 10am to 6pm Monday to Thursday and Saturday, November 23. Volunteers can check, tape and pack boxes. Gifts of knitted hats and gloves are welcome, as are pre-wrapped empty medium-sized shoeboxes. v For details or to offer to help, e-mail pennyshaw@ hotmail.co.uk or call Julie on 0118 986 6765.

First days for pupils and the school!

A NEW school is celebrating after opening its doors for the first time.

Trinity Christian School launched on September 10 for pupils aged four to eight. It meets at Glebe Road, which is also home of Arcade.

It will hold its first harvest festival at 2pm on Friday, October 25, at Earley Christian Fellowship, Wokingham Road.

Everyone is welcome.

For more details, call 07814 612675.

Give your marriage some TLC COUPLES wanting to enhance their marriage are invited to join in an eight-week course at Lower Earley Baptist Church.

Meeting on Mondays until November 18, the course looks at communication and good sex. Each evening includes a candlelit supper. For details or to book, email tony_angela@hotmail.co.uk.

News

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

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Refuges get support in Belgium Three former refugees who now call Reading home represented the town at an EU conference on refugee integration in Antwerp.

The Reading Refugee Support Group (RRSG) has taken part in the project over the last two years and 25 refugee women from Reading have had the opportunity to attend one of the quarterly conferences.

It aims to build selfconfidence, identify steps towards integration and give women practical careers advice and job-hunting skills.

The EU Grundtvig project focussed specifically on women refugees and the Reading Refugees Support Group worked with four refugee charities from other European countries to run the quarterly conferences.

Katherine Prudhoe, who co-ordinated the visit to Antwerp, said: “Helping women refugees to learn English and integrate into British society enables them to play a valuable part in local life.

Nina Lugor, Zakia Bedros, Patty Illunga, Betty Nsenga and Katherine Prudhoe – delegates from Reading at the EU Grundtvig conference for refugee women in Antwerp

“They can pass on positive values to children, help their family to integrate and follow their ambitions through retraining or finding employment.

“There are similar issues around refugee integration across Europe which is why several countries clubbed together to share resources.”

Most of the refugees and asylum seekers in and around Reading are forced to

leave their country of birth due to threats against them or their families. Once in the UK, they may have to wait several years while the UK Government determines their refugee status. The trauma of being uprooted followed by a period of uncertainty over the future is the reason why refugees may need more support.

Nina Lugor from the RRSG helped make the Antwerp visit possible.

Need help with your finances?

WITH the credit crunch continuing, prices rising and wages being squeezed, many people are finding it difficult to make ends meet.

But help is at hand.

Churches are offering free CAP Money Courses for people who are struggling or in debt.

Each church has trained coaches who can meet with you and help you to juggle your finances and win.

Over three weeks, it teaches a cash-based system that works and puts your in control of your finances, helping you to save, give and prevent debt.

Catharine Newport from Kings Church Wokingham said: “CAP Money Course is not just for people who are in debt, it is for anyone who would like to manage their money better and learn how to budget.”

Here is a round-up of some of the courses on offer. v Henley Baptist Church

runs a course at d:two, in Market Place. For details email davep@dtwo.co.uk or call 07711 580780. v St Andrew’s Church, in Priestwood Court Road, Bracknell runs sessions on Tuesday evenings. To book a place, call 01344 886900. v Kerith Community Church in Bracknell is launching a new course on Tuesday, October 15 from 7.45pm. For more details, visit www.kerith.co.uk. v People in Calcot, Coley, Tilehurst, West Reading and nearby villages can get help from CAP counsellors based from Reading Community Church. For details: e-mail reading@capuk.org or ring 0783 792 3440. v Network Vineyard Church in Reading runs a free debt counselling service for the Reading area. For more details, call 0118 966 9782. v St Mary’s in Purley runs

regular CAP Money courses.

For more, email capmoney@ stmaryspurley.org.uk. v Kings Church in Wokingham will be running a course on Wednesday evenings during October at its offices in Station Road, Wokingham. For details, call 0118 961 9876. v Sindlesham Baptist Church are holding a CAP Money Courses on Wednesdays during October.

For details, call 0118 978 3022 or e-mail sindleshambc@tiscali.co.uk. v You can also search for a course, book an appointment or find out more about the course by calling CAP on 0800 328 0006 or visiting www.capmoney.org. v Woodley Baptist Church runs the Woodley Lighthouse Money Management scheme.

For more details, log on to www.pilotlight.org or cal the church on 0118 969 9956.

She said, “The project has opened my eyes to struggles that refugees go through, especially in finding work.”

The Reading Refugee Support Group helps asylum seekers and refugees in the Reading area with their English language skills, legal support and emergency housing and food relief. v To volunteer or donate to the Group email vcoordinator@ rrsg.org.uk or visit localgiving. com/charity/rrsg.

v Ben’s ready to speak A CHARITY that runs hospices for children and young adults in Berkshire and across the south says it would welcome the chance to meet with you.

Ben Bar-Lev (pictured above) is area fundraiser for Naomi House and jacksplace. He is willing to come and speak at local groups, business events and schools.

“I can speak at all local groups whether Rotary, WI, Inner Wheel, Lions etc.

Also business networking groups, business dinners,” he said. v For more details, call Ben on 01962 760060, email ben.bar-lev@naomihouse. org.uk or log on to www. naomihouse.org.uk.

To advertise call 0118 328 2959 | www.xnmedia.co.uk | October 2013

11

Get ready for Martin Smith + Leeland Tuesday, November 12

Stuart Townend + Philippa Hanna Friday, November 29 Deliverance Centre, Reading

T

HE guys behind the BigChurchDayOut enjoyed the May weekend so much they can’t wait to do it all again. But instead of letting you come to them, they’re coming to you.

Next month, Reading’s Deliverance Centre will host two star-studded concerts, bringing the very best of the BigChurchDayOut to your doorstep.

The first BigChurchNight event, featuring Martin Smith and Leeland, arrives at the Portman Road venue on Tuesday, November 12, while Stuart Townend and Philippa Hanna perform on Friday, November 29 – the perfect start to your weekend.

The evenings aim to bring the ethos of the BigChurchDayOut to a local setting, making it accessible for everyone. And with tickets costing just £14, they won’t break the bank either.

The two NightIn gigs form part of a national tour that sees Martin Smith, Leeland, Stuart Townend and Philippa Hanna travel the country to share their music. As well as Reading, they will appear in Bournemouth, Bath, Norwich, Manchester, Cardiff and many other towns and cities across the UK. Tim Jupp, who used to perform in the hugely popular band Delirious?, is the brains behind the BigChurchNightIn and he can’t wait for the show to get back on the road again.

He says: “The BigChurchNightIn events take place throughout each year often in towns and cities near to where you live. They are evenings which create space

for God’s people to come together to be ourselves, be with others and meet with God. “Some of these times will be for holding each other up when we’re flagging and other times to cheer each other on when we’re winning. Times to stand together in celebration, community and joy!”

Creativity is an important part of both the BigChurchDayOut and the BigChurchNightIn as Tim explains: “As Church we need an expression to the outside world of our unity and love for each other and the BigChurchNightIn events aim to show this, not always through finding the common things we have to agree on but often how we learn to love Jesus more by being with each other.”

The artistes on the bill will both help Tim meet those aims. Leeland is a band from the US, who promise to take on an impassioned journey straight to the heart of God. The band comprises three siblings: Leeland, Jack and Shelly Moorling, along with drummer Mike Smith.

After one of the most successful careers of any UK Christian band, former Delirious? front man Martin Smith is coming to Reading as part of his first-ever UK Tour. The evening will have a focus on worship and will feature many of Martin’s new songs as well as some Delirious classics.

His latest album, God’s Great Dance Floor – Step 02 will have been just released when the first BigChurchNightIn comes to Reading on November 12.

On Friday, November 29, you can hear Philippa

Hanna, who is one of the UK’s brightest talents whose captivating songs and stories never fail to connect.

The Sheffield-based songwriter has appeared on Songs of Praise, had her hits performed on BBC Radio 2 and recently released her second book, Following The Breadcrumbs.

She is supporting Stuart Townend, who needs little introduction. With his distinctive style of acoustic folk, Stuart is one of the leading worship songwriters of this generation: from In Christ Alone to The Power of the Cross, his songs are sung in churches around the world.

The BigChurchNightIn is teaming up with both Food for the Hungry and Compassion. Theses charities work in poor communities around the world to release children from poverty. They run holistic child development programmes that focus on the spiritual, economic, social and physical needs of children, through all stages of their development.

Also partnering with the BigChurchNightIn is the broadcaster UCB. Broadcasting on digital radio, on satellite and on the internet, the company has a range of stations to suit all tastes and needs.

It all adds up to TWO great NightIns … and all without leaving the Thames Valley.

Tim adds: “We look forward to seeing you at a BigChurchNightIn event near you soon.”

Book your tickets today!

Log on to bigchurchnightin.com

12

News

October 2013 | www.xnmedia.co.uk | To advertise call 0118 328 2959

v Contact centre’s anniversary

v Army march on with new CD A NEW CD featuring 19 inspirational pieces of music has been released by the Reading Central Band of the Salavation Army.

Vox Dilecti – Voice Of The Beloved – includes a range of favourites includes Love Divine and When I Survey, all performed to the highest possible standard.

The CD can be previewed by visiting www. readingcentral.org.uk.

vEnjoy a night of Scottish dancing FORGET Scots Wha Hae, it’s Reading Wha Hae thanks to a fantastic dance party.

St Andrew’s URC in London Road, Reading is hosting the fun evening on Saturday, October 19.

Starting at 6.30pm, there will be plenty of Scottish dances to enjoy. Organisers say that no experience is necessary – just turn up and have a great time. v For more details, log on to standrewsurcreading.org.uk.

Silver surfers logging on

By SHARON ELLIOTT The Link Visiting Scheme – a befriending charity based in Wokingham – offers a weekly computer course for those who are daunted by the world of computers.

The Understanding Computers hourly sessions are held on Wednesday mornings from 10am until 1pm in the Bradbury Centre, right in the centre of Wokingham.

Specifically aimed at older people who are not experienced with using computers, the hourly session

gives the opportunity for people to understand what computers can offer on a oneto-one basis.

Marjie Walker, coordinator of the Link Visiting Scheme, said: “This weekly session, which has been running since 2008 has helped more than 250 people to learn about the world of computers in a relaxed environment, where they can learn at their own pace.

“Whether they want to send emails, download photographs from their digital camera or understand Skype, this

service offers something for everyone.”

Edna Champion, who coordinates the sessions, said: “We had one chap who came every week for 18 months. As long as people are learning, they can continue to attend for as long as they like.”

The Link Visiting Scheme aims to combat social isolation by linking volunteers with local people who need some company on a regular basis. v To find out more about the Understanding Computers course, call The Link Visiting Scheme on 0118 979 8019.

A meeting place for children of separated families to enjoy contact with one (or both) parents is celebrating its 21st anniversary.

St John’s and St Stephen’s Contact Centre provides a comfortable and safe environment for family meetings when there is no viable alternative. It is run by teams of volunteers and it was started 21 years ago in 1992 and has been open two Sunday afternoons per month ever since.

The Centre, which is affiliated to and accredited by the National Association of Child Contact Centres (www. naccc.org.uk), marked its birthday with a party at The Warehouse in East Reading.

Special guests were Elizabeth Coe, Acting CEO of NACCC and Sharon Grenham Toze who started St John’s and St Stephen’s Contact Centre.

Long service awards were presented to 14 volunteers who between them have given 180 years of volunteering, including Carol and Chris Meunier who have been volunteering from the start.

v Borough Mayor’s new charity choice

St Barnabas Church, backed up by St Agnes and St Paul’s Churches in Whitley, held a free community Fun Day on Saturday, September 14. Reading East MP Rob Wilson opened the event and enjoyed a free burger. The fun day included food, games and a Zumba class

Indexed to 10 favourite hymn books (upgradeable)

WOKINGHAM Borough Mayor Cllr UllaKarin Clark has changed her charity of the year.

The switch is due to illness for the chief executive of One Day (Age Concern Slough and Berkshire East).

Cllr UllaKarin said: “We were saddened to hear of the chief executive’s accident and wish her a speedy recovery.

“Any funds raised this year will go to Building for the Future, a wonderful charity for disabled children working in our borough.”

Building for the Future was launched in 2007 by a group of parents of disabled children living in Wokingham Borough. v www.bftf.org.uk v A longer version of this story can be found on our website www.xnmedia.co.uk.

Some of the hats made by the Finchampstead & California Mothers’ Union

Knitters get ahead with hats A SIMPLE request in Women’s Weekly gave knitters from Finchampstead the chance to get ahead, by getting a hat.

Pam Smith from Finchampstead & California Mothers’ Union saw the appeal and then handed out knitting patterns to fellow members and they got busy with their needles.

The result is a stunning collection of hats that will be sent to Barnabus, a Manchester-based charity that supports homeless and vulnerable people.

Pam said: “Woman’s Weekly have had a tremendous response.

Our parishioners and friends have made 22 hats to date.” v For more on Barnabus, log on to www.barnabus-manchester. org.uk.

NEWS

To advertise call 0118 328 2959 | www.xnmedia.co.uk | October 2013

Food Banks reap the harvest, but need more

BY PHIL CREIGHTON WITH harvest festivals taking place across the Thames Valley, food banks are having their store cupboards stocked up with generous donations.

Pictured is part of the harvest display donated by members of Abbey Baptist Church in Reading. The food has been sent to ReadiFood, where it will be shared out in emergency food parcels.

While the bumper donations are welcomed, organisers stress that the need is ongoing.

Malcolm Peirce, director of ReadiFood said: “Three years ago, 25 deliveries in a week was a busy week, at the beginning of 2011, we were delivering 35 parcels a week on a regular basis. Now that can be a daily requirement.”

Wokingham’s FoodBank has now launched and is operating from premises in Rose

Some of the food donated to ReadiFood by members of Abbey Baptist Church, Reading

Street. It has more than 1,000 items in stock and is open on Tuesdays and Fridays from 1pm to 3.30pm.

The food bank’s coordinator Andy Knight said: “The Wokingham Foodbank has got off to a great start and is already helping families

in crisis in the area.

“At present we are very well served with donations – but to prevent a pasta and baked beans mountain tinned meat and fish are a welcome donation.”

Food in Wokingham can be donated from 10am to noon

Poverty forum to debate the issues

BY BERYL WOOTTON A personal view of the forthcoming Poverty Forum meetings in Woodley.

The Education Secretary, Michael Gove, has defended government welfare reforms with the suggestion that, in his experience, the poor are ‘not best able to manage their finances’ as a consequence of ‘decisions taken by those families’.

Can he be serious that poverty is the consequence of decisions made just by the poorest in the community, and not the consequence of Government welfare ‘reforms’?

Is he speaking the truth, or is he just repeating and developing a convenient myth without foundation? And when does neglect of the truth become a lie?

These issues, and others, are being explored by the newly formed Woodley Poverty Forum. It aims to learn about these issues and the challenges that they present to us in our community.

A report from Children’s charities points out that “the experience of living

on a low income is one of constant struggle to manage limited resources, with small events having serious consequences. Statistics show that the poorest spend their money carefully, limiting themselves to the essentials.”

Do you have daily experience of the hardship of poverty?

Have your unemployment or disability allowances been disrupted?

Do you face the loss of your home due to the bedroom tax/spare room subsidy?

Do you support someone who is in any of these situations?

If you live in or around Woodley then Woodley Poverty Forum would like to hear from you.

It has a meeting on Thursday, October 3, at Christ Church Woodley, and again on Thursday, November 7, with a view to seeing what can be done as a church and a community.

Your views will help us to do this – and you would be welcome to attend. v For more details, or for more information, email poverty@christchurch-woodley.org.uk.

from Tuesday to Saturday at the Bradbury Centre in Rose Street. v Food collections at Waitrose and Tesco are continuing and volunteers are needed to run them. A full list of dates can be found on ReadiFood’s website, www.readifood.org.uk.

13

v Peaceful night A MAN who helped build peace in Ireland will be sharing some of his experiences at a forthcoming lecture.

Newbold College in Binfield is the venue for the 2013 Beach Lecture and the guest speaker is Canon Davd Porter, the Archbishop of Canterbury’s Director of Reconciliation.

He will speak on the theme The Elusive Quest: Religious Peace Building In A World Of Difference.

Canon David is responsible for the international network of the Community of the Cross of Nails and St Michael’s House reconciliation learning centre. He is an expereinced community relations activist and peace-building practiontier engaged with the Irish Peace Process.

The lecture takes place at 7.30pm on Tuesday, October 15 and all are welcome. v For details, log on to www. newbold.ac.uk

Table Top / Jumble Sale Tables fill up fast, book yours in advance via email or text. You can pay for your table online (see details below)

2013 Dates

2014 Dates

26th October 23rd November 21st December

25th January 22nd February 22nd March

Where: St Barnabas Church Hall, Elm Rd, Reading, RG66TS (Off Shinfield Road, opposite The Sportsman Pub car park) Book Email: events@creatingbetterfutures.org.uk OR Text: 0787 0783 259 Pay online www.tabletop-carbootsale.eventbrite.co.uk OR www.justgiving.com/creatingbetterfutures/donate

14

BUSINESS

October 2013 | www.xnmedia.co.uk | To advertise call 0118 328 2959

BUSINESS

Supporting the local economy together

Mall manager praises Reading communities

BY PHIL CREIGHTON The manager of Broad Street Mall – one of the many places where you can pick up Xn – was given a very fond farewell as he left to take up a new role.

Steve Fawke, who arrived in Reading in 2005, has been headhunted by the Brunel Shopping Centre in Swindon.

His departure was marked with a special party held at Reading’s pentahotel on Friday, September 20.

Surrounded by friends, family and local business and community leaders including Sir John Madejski, Steve gave an emotional address.

In it, paid tribute to the town and its people.

“I’m really going to miss the sense of community in Reading, it really is unique,” Steve said.

“In any great town centre you need a good team. Reading has very passionate people who make up that team.”

Steve said that one of the

reasons why Reading has weathered the economic storm better than other areas was due to this strong sense of community. In turn, that has benefitted the Mall, which has seen new shops come in over recent months.

Steve said: “It’s all about getting involved and getting the community involved with you.”

He also praised the team at the Mall.

“All security, maintenance and cleaning teams continue to give great service and are a credit to the Mall. It’s thanks to those guys and girls that those [high] standards are kept.”

Sir John Madejski paid tribute to Steve in a humorous address.

“He is a great gentleman and a wonderful man,” he said.

One of Steve’s achievements in Reading was the launch of Has Reading Got Talent?

To mark the success of the contest, previous winners formed part of the evening’s entertainment including TJ Shiyanbola and Katie Dale.

MP’s visit is just the job A CLUB designed to help people get back into work welcomed a special guest last month.

Alok Sharma, MP for Reading West, visited the Reading Job Club run by Reading Family Church on Wednesday, September 25.

The club helps people who have been referred by the Job Centre, local Housing Associations and by the church themselves.

Mr Sharma met with club members and shared some insights into the employment situation based on his experience as an MP. He also answered questions from the delegates and promised to do what he could to help the club.

Andy Dickens, from Reading Family Chrurch and leader of the Job Club, said: “We prepare people to get back into work.”

Alok praised the club. “I think what you’re doing is brilliant,” he said. “Organisations such as this [really] provide.”

The club meets at Reading Family Church’s offices in London Street from noon to 1.30pm on the second and fourth Mondays in the month. Entry is free and new members are welcome.

For details, call 07900 877712 or log on to www.readingfamilychurch.org.uk.

vBe quick to take this Window of Opportunity Churches, faith organisations and local government agencies are invited to join the Windows of Opportunity conference on Tuesday, October 15.

Organised by Faith in the Community it runs from 10.30 until 3.30 at the Oakwood

Centre in Woodley. Attendance is free with lunch provided.

“Faith in the Community is organising this conference due to increasing awareness that local churches and faith groups are in a strong position to work together for the good of

local communities,” explained Jeremy Sharpe, conference organiser.

Spaces for the conference are filling up fast. v To register call Sharon Elliott on 07843 091950 or Jeremy Sharpe on 07970 100131.

v Spring into action v Climate action A GROUP that aims to help nurture and develop faith-based business is holding a celebration event later this month.

It will be an opportunity to learn about the groups Springboard has worked with over the past few years, to celebrate the good work that is already being done and to share new ideas and passions for the future.

Coffee and breakfasty bites will be served from 9.30am, before the meeting starts at 10am. There will be a chance to network too.

It will be held on Saturday, October 11, at South Street Arts Centre in Reading. v Booking is essential, for catering purposes. To sign up, log on to www. springboardreading.org.uk.

MORE than 100 delegates attended the launch of Reading’s new climate change strategy.

The Reading Means Business on Climate Change event brought together representatives from local businesses, statutory agencies, and the voluntary and community sector.

Speakers included Sir David Bell, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Reading and Sally Coble, Chair of the Reading Climate Change Partnership.

The impact of climate change both locally and globally, how to reduce carbon emissions and Reading’s climate change strategy were all discussed. v See the Strategy by logging on to www.readingclimateaction.org.uk.

SCHOOL HOLIDAYS

Special focus on fun for younger people

Children welcomed at St Joseph’s this half-term holiday!

P

ARENTS wondering what to do with their children this half-term need look no further, we’ve found the answer.

Take them to school.

Children are being invited to the Holiday Club run by St Joseph’s College in Reading.

Run during full weeks of each school holiday, it gives children aged three to 14 the chance to have fun in a safe, happy and secure environment.

Open each day of the half-term holiday from 8am to 6pm, sessions run for a full day or half day and can be booked for the week or single sessions. Costing just £18 for a session, £28 per day or £130 for the week, it’s a fun solution that won’t break the bank. In addition to half-terms, the club also runs during Christmas, Easter and summer holidays.

Older children can attend sports sessions at St Joseph’s College. Hosted by Star Hotshots multi-activity camps, activities are led by qualified PE teachers and coaches.

For three to five year olds the club takes place in the school’s new purpose built Early Years Centre and is fully equipped to meet the needs of every under five: they can play indoors and outdoors with a wide variety of toys, games and instruments.

Sessions include crafts, cookery and the

chance to try out different sports courtesy of Star Hotshots.

It is staffed by the Early Years Practitioners who work in the College all year round, ensuring continuity for pupils and maintaining the school’s high standards.

Places are limited and there is a ratio of no more than eight children per adult.

The holiday club launched last year and was a natural extension of its Early Years centre, explains Grace Hope, the Head of St Joseph’s College Prep School.

“The Early Years Centre has really enhanced what we can do here,” she says as she conducts me on a tour of the purposebuilt, spacious classrooms.

The Early Years Holiday Club is an extension to the school’s work.

Grace says: “It was a natural progression to open in the holidays.

“It’s very high quality care; some children come along for a morning and enjoy it so much St Joseph’s Head of Prep School, Grace Hope

they stay for the whole day. One child came along for the holiday club and then registered for the school!”

St Joseph’s Early Years Centre opened in January and is next to the main school.

It has its own outdoor play space and a woodland area is being developed.

As Grace takes me round the Centre, bright-eyed and beaming children keep rushing up to her to share their learning and discoveries. As they come to her, she bends down to their level, to offer words of encouragement and support to them.

It’s something that matters to Grace.

“It’s about the underlying ethos of what we do and how we work with each other,” she explains. “I firmly believe that children that are confident and happy will learn.”

And she reassures parents who are nervous about leaving their threeyear-olds at the Early Years Centre for the first time.

“I tell them to just leave them with us to let them settle in, so they can get to know us and us them. With that foundation, they will flourish.”

Grace adds that giving children the right start,

something that runs through both termtime and holiday club, will pay dividends later.

“We give them the opportunity to try lots of things and discover who they are,” she says. “When they get to secondary school, the wider experiences they have had at an early age will give them confidence.

This foundation will help them with their adolescence.

“That’s why, as a school, we are happy to invest in the Early Years Centre. I firmly believe that if we get all the early stages right, they’ll be better prepared for life.”

The Early Years Centre is part of the Prep School which caters for children aged three to 11 and offers a high quality education.

“There’s nothing about the Early Years Centre that I’d change,” Grace says. “We have the right space and facilities and we’re really delighted with the staff team we’ve got.” v For more details about St Joseph’s College Prep School, the holiday club or to arrange a visit, call the school on 0118 984 6918, email prep@sjcr.org.uk or log on to www.sjcr.org.uk. v For more about the Hotshots Holiday Club for children aged 5 to 14, log on to www.hotshots-sports.co.uk or call 0845 301 0450.

Holiday Clubs St Joseph’s College is running NEW Holiday Clubs for pupils and non-pupils

Children aged 3 to 5

Children aged 5 to 14

are cared for by a team of Early Years Practitioners

take part in Star Hotshots sports activities led by qualified instructors

For more information contact the Prep School on 0118 984 6918 or email holidayclub@sjcr.org.uk

For more information call 0845 301 0450 or go to www.star-hotshots.co.uk

Open from 8.00am to 6.00pm during every half term and full weeks of school holidays and costs £28 per day

www.sjcr.org.uk

16

October 2013 | www.xnmedia.co.uk | To advertise call 0118 328 2959

Age UK’s autumn fun

NEWS focus

Sir John’s care for The Royals are a force to be reckoned with on and off the pitch and, as Phil Creighton discovers, the club’s chairman is the reason

By Sarah Finch

N

ow that there is a nip in the air and the days are getting shorter, why not warm yourself up by taking part in a new activity?

Age UK Berkshire offers a range of activities that are geared towards the needs of people aged 50+.

Whatever your level of fitness or ability, we will have something that will suit you.

Budding Robin Hoods can take part in archery classes, while the more energetic can take part in energising Zumba Gold sessions.

This is a popular Latinmusic dance-fitness programme which is fun and a good way to burn calories.

Zumba Gold suits those who don’t want to or are unable to exercise intensely.

Its moves are not as fast as regular Zumba, and you can take part sitting down.

Tai Chi is one of AgeUK’s most popular classes. This martial art inspired class combines deep breathing and relaxation with slow and gentle movements. Studies have shown that Tai Chi can help people to reduce stress, improve balance and general mobility, and increase muscle strength in the legs.

It is ideal for older people wanting to raise their activity levels gently and gradually. Many of the Tai Chi movements can even be adapted to people with a disability, including wheelchair users. =Most of the classes offer a seated option.

If you would like to join a walking group, then there are several options on offer.

A weekly Health Walk takes place every week along the

banks of the Thames at Caversham, so is on flat, level ground.

Ever-popular Historical Walks are held monthly, each one exploring a different area of Reading looking at our fascinating architecture, industry and history.

It also has a guided Scenic and Photographic Walk which visits our local beauty spots – yes, there are lots in Reading! There is no charge for attending these walks, but AgeUK asks you to call to register.

New this autumn is a Nordic Walking beginner’s course. This eight-week introduction to the popular sport costs just £20 and starts on Monday, October 7.

There are just a few spaces remaining. Once you have completed the beginner’s course, you can join the improver’s group which also meets on a weekly basis.

Most of AgeUK’s activities cost £3.50 per session.

There is no joining fee and no paying for missed classes – you just pay as you go. You even get to come along and try your first class for free!

Many of the classes include refreshments, so it is a chance to make new friends and catch up with old ones over a cuppa.

Classes are available every week day at different venues in and around Reading and Age UK promises a warm welcome! v For more information, please contact Age UK’s Active & Healthy coordinators Marveta Hinds or Ruth McEwan on 0118 959 4242. You can also email info@ageukberkshire.org.uk. v More information is available at www.ageuk.org. uk/berkshire/our-services/ activities-events/

S

ir John Madejski opens the door to his penthouse suite, the crowning glory of his beautiful Millennium Madejski Hotel.

It’s a large expansive open plan room offering stunning views of the Berkshire countryside and, on match days, the roar of the crowds in the adjacent stadium will rumble across the balcony. In the evenings, when Sir John has tired of meeting celebrities, he can carry on seeing stars with a large telescope pointing towards the heavens.

Carefully placed throughout the room are pictures of Sir John with the great and good, including Prime Ministers, managers and even Reading’s very own Chris Tarrant.

This is the powerhouse of a highly successful man; someone who has created a string of successful businesses including Auto Trader magazine. Someone who took Reading FC by the scruff of the neck and transformed it into a club that can compete in football’s highest echelons.

So the first thing Sir John says comes as a bit of a surprise.

"Can I make you a cup of tea?”

It shouldn’t be a shock. For all his wealth and influence, Reading-raised Sir John is also honest John. Down to earth, softly spoken and keen to be a blessing, not a hindrance, to the town.

As he’s accessible too: When the club received promotion to the Premier League for the second time last year, there were reports of a delighted chairman joining equally delighted fans in The Purple Turtle.

And more recently, Steve Fawke, the departing manager of Broad Street Mall, paid tribute to Sir John, saying: “I’m proud to call Sir John a friend.

He’s helped to guide me.”

Others too will testify to his friendship, but Sir John’s reach into the town includes far more than the football club he part owns and the stadium that bears his name. He is passionate about the arts, sponsoring an art gallery in Reading Museum. He made a £500,000 donation to the Falkland Islands Memorial Chapel in Pangbourne College, and is Chancellor of the University of Reading.

His educational influence also extends to the school that bears his name, the John Madejski Academy.

Sir John Madejski with Xn editor Phil Creighton

Sir John, who was knighted in 2009 and is also a Freeman of the Borough of Reading, has greater aspirations. The Reading FC Community Trust is one such part of that plan and acts an extension between club and the community, giving it an opportunity to engage with and have an impact on local people.

Why does he do it? The multi-millionaire modestly says: “I’ve been very fortunate in the past and I like to share that.”

Although its main work is through football, the Royals’ Community Trust also works on social inclusion projects, including street dance, the Prince’s Trust, the Duke of Edinburgh Award and working in prisons to deliver workshops on everything from anti-knife crime to sexual health.

It’s a wide brief, and one that is close to Sir John’s heart.

“Reading Football Club is very much a community football club,” he says. “I’ve always felt that the Football Club is a pinnacle of the area. It’s an organic, moving thing that unites people. It’s a wonderful thing.”

As a football club, Reading is one of the oldest in the country – “that’s pretty important” says Sir John, who bought the club in 1990 and now shares ownership of it with Anton Zingarevich.

“I always said when I came in that we should reach the Premiership, which we did and I’m very proud.”

Of course, now

NEWS focus

To advertise call 0118 328 2959 | www.xnmedia.co.uk | October 2013

the community of Reading

17

v Stars on Sunday EVERY Sunday, Sir John hosts a special show on Reading 107fm.

Starting at noon, the show sees Sir John talk to some of Reading’s most successful business people and community leaders.

The informal conversational interview between Sir John and his guests provides an interesting and inspirational insight into the varied lives and careers of his guests.

The Royals family … Sir John Madejski with, clockwise from left, manager Nigel Adkins, fellow owner Anton Zingarevich and player Stephen Kelly

the club are back in the Championship and the club are working on promotion for the coming campaign.

Sir John says: “I felt it was important to the citizens of Reading that the football club should prosper. It affects so many people in the area.”

Sir John is quick to emphasise that the club’s success isn’t down to him.

“We have a fantastic stadium and the people in it make a difference,” he says, praising the team around him, not just on the pitch but in the back rooms too.

One of his team is the Community Trust’s manager, Dave Evans. He’s been at the club since 2010 and has a specific brief of managing, developing and sustaining the trust’s key activities.

Sitting by Sir John’s side, he beams with pride as he shares some of the work of the Trust.

“Sports participation is a huge part, education is a big part in what we do,” Dave says, adding that they also work on social projects including sexual health and crime.

“Whitley is at the heart of where we work, we have good relationships there.”

Sir John loves the Trust and what it achieves. As well as helping nurture the footballing stars of the future it is busy at a grass roots level meeting the needs of local youngsters.

He says: “I’m delighted that Reading Football Club is a beacon of positivity in the community.

We need to engage with the community and it’s all about friendship: Sport is so important.”

One of the projects Dave has worked in has focused on preventing gun crime; this is in partnership with Thames Valley Police. An officer shows young people what would happen if a gun was fired.

“It educates young people,” he says.

Another project shows the effects of drink driving, using ‘goggle eyes’ to show what it would be like to drive a car while drunk, while also showing videos of families affected by hit and run drivers.

“It really hits home the messages to young people not to take part in crime,” Dave says.

Sir John adds: “It shows the young people that a car is a guided missile and very dangerous. A car can be a lethal weapon, so we try and get people to use their common sense. It’s very important to understand this at a young age.”

The players too have a part to play in the Trust’s work, visiting coaching sessions, meeting youngsters and helping them with their coaching.

Sir John is delighted that so many in the club want to share their knowledge.

“You do get players who want to get involved [with the Trust]. They’re good people and we need to help them with that; they’re professional footballers, not entertainers but when they can, they help. They’re very obliging in reaching out to kids and assisting them.”

And that help is fitted in around their training routines, as they prepare for games and ensure they are match fit. The life of a footballer is not turning up on Saturday for 90 minutes and then heading off down the pub.

“They have strict regimes,” Sir John explains.

“They may have a fantastic lifestyle, but they’re totally disciplined.”

Dave says that one of the Trust’s skills is not talking down to the people they work with. This means they can earn their charges’ respect, making it easier to share their life-changing tips with them.

“Rather than going ‘you shouldn’t do this’” – he wags his finger to make the point – “we get into conversation with the young people and then you can engage with them.”

The Trust also welcomes children for football coaching sessions and the Club wants to use the sport to help break down barriers wherever they may be.

“We use this as a community hub. Parents like this – they say you want to go to Reading Football Club, it’s a good place.”

The Trust doesn’t just work with the disadvantaged and both Dave and Sir John are clear that they want to support every youngster.

“There are loads of kids out there doing the best they can,” Sir John says. “I think they should be shown praise for what they are doing. There are excellent Academy kids who haven’t had any difficulties and they are fantastic.”

There’s much, much more to the work of the Trust. It’s so widereaching that it would take several articles to get it all across.

It’s also a charity and Dave welcomes any fundraising initiatives to help it achieve its aims to helping the community come together and grow.

“You can give or hold an event for us, that would be fantastic,” Dave says. “The more people see us as a charity, the more we can do in the community.”

Sir John agrees. “We’re giving kids something good and reaching people on their own level. We’re presenting them with something invaluable.”

And coming from a multi-millionaire, that’s priceless. v For more on the Trust, or to find out how to make a donation, log on to www.readingfc.com, call 0118 968 1460 or email community@readingfc.co.uk.

lyndabowyerphotography Lynda Bowyer is a British professional photographer whose work for commercial and private clients includes Portraiture, Landscape, Architecture, Events, Lifestyle, Maternity / Baby Bump and photo journalism.

Whatever your photographic needs, contact Lynda to find out how she can help.

www.lyndabowyerphotography.com (0118) 384 2129 @ellbphotography

conceptcreatecapture

18

CLASSIFIED

October 2013 | www.xnmedia.co.uk | To advertise call 0118 328 2959

Trades directory 6 MONTHS £75!

Every month, Xn gives you the chance to reach thousands of potential customers. Our service directory connects your business with our readers.

Book for 6 months for just £75 – that’s just £12.50 per month for up to 30 words, plus an insertion on our website.

To book, call Erica on 0118 328 2959 or email advertising@xnmedia.co.uk For more details, visit xnmedia.co.uk

v Wills & Lasting Power of Attorney OMEGA WILLS. We are a Christian, family run business providing a personal caring service at a fair price.

Home visits available.

For Further information call: 0845 040 5872 or e-mail: info@omegawills.co.uk.

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

BRINGING COMMUNIT Y TOGETHER To advertise in a similar feature call 0118 328 2959

Advertising works, as Yeldall knows GENEROUS Xn readers have helped raise vital funds for Yeldall Manor – simply by using our Trades Directory.

Callaghan Carpets and Flooring donates 5% of every order booked through Xn to the Hare Hatch rehabilitation centre and recently presented them with a cheque for £235.

Sue Hedger, Yeldall’s Supporter Relations Manager, said: “We are delighted that Callaghan Carpets has chosen to support us in this way and that, by choosing this familyrun business, Xn readers can

Ted Callaghan presents a donation to Andy Partington, director of Yeldall Manor Picture: Lynda Bowyer benefit Yeldall too.

“Every pound that we receive helps ensure that we can enable more men to tackle their drug or alcohol addictions.”

Xn editor Phil Creighton said: “We’re delighted that Ted’s

support for Xn is bringing him extra business that is also helping Yeldall.

“I encourage local businesses to use Xn as a tool to communicate to the Thames Valley.”

v Situations vacant

v Counselling Philippi Trust Counselling and Training. Level 2 Introduction to Counselling courses. Starting dates October 2013, January 2014, May 2014. Contact 0118 966 7422 or reading@philippi.co.uk Loddon Counselling & Psychology Service. Accredited counsellors, supervisors, trainers.

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

07092 022294

v Volunteers

Be part of the Xn story

Deliveries Volunteers needed to help us share our Good News!

Every month, Xn strives to bring the Thames Valley an inspiring and encouraging mix of news, features and information.

We need your help to get the magazine into the community.

If you could spare a couple of hours once a month to help us deliver copies to a small cluster of venues it will help us – we can tell even more good news stories.

Think you could help? Get in touch with us today!

For details, email judith@xnmedia.co.uk

Living life to the full Support Workers £6.70 to £7.95 dependent on roles/service Reading (additional 25p per hour paid as a location allowance) Prospects is a Christian charity helping to transform the lives of people with learning disabilities by breaking down the barriers that limit individual choice. We are entering a new and exciting phase in our Reading based services as we open a new facility and refurbish existing buildings. Our services focus on the delivery of a Christian service, provided at the request of families and individuals who have specifically chosen us as their provider. As an employer, we recognise and value true potential - offering you the chance to make a real and lasting impact in what is a supportive, dynamic and empowering working environment. We seek people who will help us deliver a service which will include praying for, and with the people we support.

You will be supporting and encouraging the people in their everyday needs with a person-centred approach. You will also be motivated, have initiative, and preferably have experience of working with people with learning disabilities, though this is not essential for more junior roles. There will be an opportunity for professional development through attaining QCF/NVQ qualifications.

Contact Neil Jackson to obtain a recruitment pack at: Prospects, c/o Prospects, 69 Honey End Lane, Reading RG30 4EL. Email: neilj@prospects.org.uk.

All posts are subject to an enhanced check by the Disclosure & Barring Service.

No agencies please.

www.prospects.org.uk

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

To advertise call 0118 328 2959 | www.xnmedia.co.uk | October 2013

To advertise call 0118 328 2959 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 Double glazing

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

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.

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

v Driving lessons 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 Plumbing

L

Driving Tuition.

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

MILES & DAUGHTERS. The family funeral service. All areas covered.

Owned and run by the Miles family. www.milesfunerals.com E SARGEANT & SON. Family orientated funeral directors of distinction. Serving Maidenhead, Slough, Windsor and surrounding areas since 1712. www.esargeant. co.uk.

v Situations vacant

Job Vacancy CommuniCare is a free and confidential information, advice and support centre. We are a charity built on Christian core values which are reflected in our ethos and culture.

We operate from purpose-built premises in east Reading and also run a charity shop.

To help lead the next stage in our development we are seeking to recruit a:

Manager

Long term contract; 29.5 hours per week; £25,100 pro rata

19

vC lothing alterations DOES THAT DRESS NEED TO BE MADE WEARABLE? I can help.

Also to shorten trousers, jeans, shirts, jacket sleeves, replace zips. Anything else? Contact me!

Awesome Alterations.

0118 926 0603.

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

v Marketing Creative thinker inspires results.

• Award winning copywriting • Business development • Creative network • Mentoring Contact Hyperbole.

0118 966 6600. john@hyperbole. co.uk

Crowthorne HopeZone Ltd is looking for a

Part Time Youth Worker (20 hours / week) This post offers an exciting opportunity to work with young people in Crowthorne.You will lead in further developing the work of HopeZone, and the post will offer an excellent opportunity for your own professional development.

HopeZone was established as a drop in centre for young people aged 11-18, and is currently based at Crowthorne Baptist Church.

The work is guided and supported by the HopeZone Management Committee whose membership is drawn principally from the Methodist, Baptist and Anglican churches in Crowthorne.

The person we are looking for will have:  Experience of people management and the ability to motivate others.  The ability to work on own initiative and as part of a team.  The ability to communicate and network effectively with people at all levels.  Experience of charity fundraising.

We need a practising participant of a Christian Church, to work with the HopeZone manager and Committee.You will be employed by Crowthorne HopeZone Ltd under the JNC Professional Scale point 20 (£14,958, equivalent to a full-time salary of £27,673), but depending on qualification and experience, and subject to a satisfactory DBS check.

To learn more or for an application pack, please contact Andrew Taylor: 0118 966 3912 or taylorat@talk21.com Closing date: Friday 11 October 2013

We are looking for someone to start as soon as possible.

If you are interested in this position, please apply to Rev. Jackie Case for further information and an application form, either by email (hopezone@talktalk.net) or to the Circuit Office, Methodist Centre, Rose Street, Wokingham, RG40 1XS, by 31 October.

Interviews will be held during the week beginning 25 November.

www.communicare.org.uk

20

calendar

October 2013 | www.xnmedia.co.uk | To advertise call 0118 328 2959

WHAT’S ON Saturday, October 5 FINCHAMPSTEAD – St James’ Church centre. Harvest supper. Details: (0118) 973 0133.

READING – St Luke’s Parish Hall, Erleigh Road. Book sale and coffee morning. 11am-noon.

READING – All Saints Church Hall, Downshire Square. Celebration of 60 years of Sue Ryder, includes raffle, bring and buy, cake.2pm4pm. Admission by lucky ticket.

READING – All Saints Church Hall, Downshire Square. Quiz night. £5.

7.30pm. All welcome.

READING – Tyndale Baptist Church, Cressingham Road. International evening with music from The Sainsbury Singers. Details: www. tyndalereading.org.uk.

STREATLEY – St Mary’s Church.

Harvest folk concert and supper. £10, £5 children. Details: stmarysconcerts@hotmail.co.uk.

Sunday, October 6 CAVERSHAM – Milestone Centre.

Hymns and Cakes: favourite songs of praise and refreshments.

3.30pm-4.30pm. All welcome.

FINCHAMPSTEAD – St James’ Church.

Harvest services: 8am, 9.30am, 11am, 6pm.

FINCHAMPSTEAD – Gorse Ride Junior School. St Mary & St John harvest services: 9.30am, 11am.

READING – Deaf Centre, Cardiff Road.

Deaf church. 10.30am. Details: readingdeafcentre.org.uk.

Tuesday, October 8 FINCHAMPSTEAD – St James’ Church.

Breastfeeding Centre offering support and advice. 12.30pm-2pm.

Fledglings toddler and baby group.

1.45pm-4pm.

FINCHAMPSTEAD – St Mary & St John’s Parish Centre, Billing Ave. Tea and chat, all welcome. 2pm.

STOKE ROW – Independent Chapel.

Wednesday@8 social group.

Guest speaker: Robert Maguire, a Summer Like No Other. 8pm.

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

WOKINGHAM – Norreys Church, Norreys Avenue. Over 50s group WHAT am I eating!? Learn how to check what is in our food with from Isabella Hughes. 2pm. www. norreyschurch.org.uk.

Wednesday, Oct 9 READING – All Nations Christian Centre, Berkeley Avenue. The

Keeping you in touch with each other

REGUlAR EVENTS Mondays

HENLEY – Baptist Church, Market Place. Teddies Music Group for under fives: songs, stories and instruments.

10.30am. £3, £2 for siblings. Details: 01491 577414.

HENLEY – Christ Church, Reading Road. Open house for coffee & teas. Lunch from noon.

11am-2pm. Details: 01491 577733.

HENLEY – YMCA Henley Pavilion.

Nomad Henley presents Flying Frog after-school club for Years 5-7. £1.

4pm-5.30pm, termtime. Details: www. nomadhenley.co.uk.

Tuesdays CROWTHORNE – Methodist Church.

Coffee morning hosted

by Churches Together Crowthorne. 10am.

HENLEY – Baptist Church, Market Place. Knit:two

Together. 11am-1pm.

Details: 01491 577414

Wednesdays CAVERSHAM – Baptist Church. Time 4U: coffee for parents, fun for pre-school children.

10am-11.30am.

Term-time. Details: www.caversham baptistchurch.org.uk.

HENLEY – Youth Centre. Nomad Henley presents Flying Frog afterschool club for Years 5-7. £1. 4pm-5.30pm, term-time. Details: www.nomadhenley. co.uk.

READING – Abbey Baptist Church, Abbey Square. Coffee and Chat: drinks, cakes and friendly faces.

11am-12.30pm.

Free, donations accepted.

STOKE ROW – Independent Chapel.

Art painting group.

10am. Details: www. stokerowchapel.org.uk.

Gospel In The Feasts of Israel, a talk by CMS director Joseph Steinberg. 8pm. Details: www. allnationselim.org.

Thursday, October 10 BRACKNELL – Methodist Church, Shepherds Lane. Together in Prayer meeting. 8pm.

BRACKNELL – Kerith Centre, Church Road. Willow Creek Global Leadership Summit. Continues tomorrow. Details: www. willowcreek.org.uk FINCHAMPSTEAD – St James’ Church Centre. Mothers’ Union meeting with guest speaker and afternoon tea. 2pm. Details: (0118) 973 0133.

READING – Emmanuel Methodist Church, Oxford Road. Springboard open space event: share new ideas to see our communities transformed. 7.30pm-10pm.

Evening meal provided, registration essential. Details: www.springboardreading.org.uk.

SONNING – Reading Blue Coat School Buttery. Chamber concert

Submit your events to editor@xnmedia.co.uk

Thursdays HENLEY – Rugby Club.

Nomad Henley presents football for Years 9-11, term-time.

4.30pm-5.30pm.

Details: www. nomadhenley.co.uk.

HENLEY – Baptist Church, Market Place. Teddies Music Group for under fives: songs, stories and instruments.

10.30am. £3, £2 for siblings. Details: 01491 577414.

SWALLOWFIELD – All Saints’ Church. Church open for visitors, 2pm-6pm. Until end of October.

TILEHURST – St Catherine of Siena, Wittenham Avenue. Thursday lunch club. 12.30pm.

Every other Thursday: Tea dance, 2.30pm4.30pm. Details: www. stcatherines-tilehurst. org.uk

Fridays BRACKNELL – Methodist

featuring soloists and ensembles from the school. 7pm. All welcome. Details: 0118 944 1005.

Saturday, October 12 Dorchester-on-Thames – Dorchester Abbey. RSCM annual choirs festival evensong. 5pm.

BINFIELD – Shopping centre car park. Men’s monthly country walk. 7.45am. Lasts around an hour. Come ready for the weather.

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

BINFIELD – St Mark’s Church. Who Let The Dads Out? New monthly playscheme for dads and carers of under fours. 2pm-4.30pm. £3. Includes bacon butties for the Dads. Details: www. binfieldchurches.org.uk.

BRACKNELL – Kerith Centre, Church Road. Willow Creek Global Leadership Summit. Details: www. willowcreek.org.uk CAVERSHAM – St Andrew’s Church,

Church, Shepherds Lane. Coffee mornimg.

9am-12.30pm. All welcome.

CAVERSHAM – Baptist Church. Friday lunches: three-course lunch that won’t break the bank.

12.15pm-1.30pm. All welcome. Details: www.caversham baptistchurch.org.uk.

HENLEY – Christ Church, Reading Road. Coffee morning. 10.30amnoon. Details: 01491 577733.

TILEHURST – St Catherine of Siena, Wittenham Avenue.

Friday Friends: circle dancing, games, singing, tea and cake. £3.50. 2pm-4pm.

Details: www. stcatherines-tilehurst. org.uk

Saturdays LOWER EARLEY – Baptist Church. Saturday Morning Cafe.

10.30am-noon.

Albert Road. The Great Exhibition Ensemble. 7.30pm. Details: 0118 9484112 CROWTHORNE – Woodmancote, Pinewood Avenue. Out To Tea: an afternoon for older members of the community, organised

by Network Vineyard Churches.

2.30pm-4.30pm. Transport available. Details: 01344 780087.

EARLEY – St Peter’s Church, Church Road. Autumn market. 11am-2pm.

SANDHURST – SANDHURST & YATELEY METHODIST CHURCH, Scotland Hill. Beetle Drive. £5, includes a Ploughman’s. 7pm.

Details: 01344 775177 SONNING – Reading Blue Coat School. Reading Churches Men’s Breakfast wih guest speaker Paul Valler: Work-Life Balance.

8.30am. Details: (0118) 986 1917.

TILEHURST – St Joseph’s Parish Hall.

Parish quiz night in support of the Divine Mercy Centre in Cameroon.

TILEHURST – Methodist Church.

First Aid training day aimed at people who work with children.

9.30am-4pm. Details: www. tilehurstmethodist.org.uk.

WOODLEY – Christ Church, Crockhamwell Road. Ramble.

10am. Meet in car park, come dressed for the weather, followed by a pub meal. All ages welcome.

Details: www.christ-churchwoodley.org.uk.

Sunday, October 13 CAVERSHAM – St Andrew’s Church, Albert Road. Eucharist service with prayers for healing and wholeness and laying on of hands and anointing. 10am.

FINCHAMPSTEAD – St James Church Centre. Contrast Youth Group.

6.30pm. Details: Cathy, 0118 973 0707.

READING – Reading Minster Church, St Mary’s Butts. Service of welcome for the Revd Canon Olivia Graham, new archdeacon of Berkshire. 4pm.

SANDHURST – Sandhurst and Yateley Methodist Church, Scotland Hill.

From Prison to Pulpit with Ron Simms. 6.30pm.

WOKINGHAM – All Saints Church, Sturges Road. The Osilgi Maasai Warriors troupe in aid of the families within its community.

2.30pm. £12, children £1. Details: www allsaintswokingham.org.uk.

WOOLHAMPTON – Douai Abbey.

En Coro in concert: Music by Allegri, Guerrero, Byrd, Purcell, James MacMillan, Britten and others. 7.45pm. £12, £10 concessions. Details: 08455 218218.

Monday, October 14 READING – Abbey Baptist Church, Abbey Square. Reading@Work prayer lunch. 12.30pm. Details: www.readingatwork.org.

WOODLEY – Christ Church, Crockhamwell Road. Tea with toddlers. 10am. Details: www. christ-church-woodley.org.uk.

Tuesday, October 15 BINFIELD – Newbold College. The 2013 Beach Lecture: The Elusive Quest: Religious Peace Building In A World Of Difference, given

by Canon David Porter. 7.30pm.

Details: newbold.ac.uk/diversitycentre.

FINCHAMPSTEAD – St James’ Church.

Breastfeeding Centre offering support and advice. 12.30pm-2pm.

Fledglings toddler and baby group.

1.45pm-4pm.

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 Wednesday, Oct 16 FINCHAMPSTEAD – Sports Club, Memorial Hall. Churchyard Trust Tea. 2pm.

Thursday, October 17 SONNING – Reading Blue Coat School Buttery. Lunchtime recital with head boy Hamish Rosser and Sarah Hodkinson. All welcome. Details: 0118 944 1005.

Friday, October 18 READING – New Hope Community Church, York Road. Book club. Just turn up. 7.30pm. Details: www. newhopeweb.org.uk.

Saturday, October 19 BRACKNELL – Holy Trinity Church, the Ring. An Evening With Friends: music, entertainment and more.

6pm. Family tickets (two adults, three children) £20, adults £5, concessions and performers £4.

BRACKNELL – Methodist Church, Shepherds Lane. Barn dance.

7.30pm. Details: www. bracknellmethodist.org.uk.

CAVERSHAM – Caversham Heights Methodist Church, Highmoor Road. Silent auction in aid of Syrian Refugees. 10.30am-noon. Prayer time. 10am. Details: www.cavhmc. org.uk.

COLD ASH – Cold Ash Retreat Centre.

Young Catholic Adults’ retreat.

11am Mass, Marian procession from noon. Details: www. youngcatholicadults.co.uk.

READING – The Pavilion, Oxford Road. Charity musical extravaganza: Broken State, Lifted, Nuchapter, Andrea Hull and Sounds of Salvation. £10. Details: www. musicalextravaganza.evenbrite. co.uk.

READING – St Andrew’s URC, London Road. Scottish Dance Party.

6.30pm. All welcome, just come along and enjoy. No experience necessary.

SWALLOWFIELD – Parish Hall, Swallowfield Street. Thank You For the Music concert in aid of Riseley Village Tea Room. 7.30pm. £10, from Swallowfield Post Office, (0118) 988 2530 or 0118 966 2530.

TILEHURST – St Mary Magdalen Church Hall. Charity Christmas sale and coffee morning. 10am12.30pm.

WOKINGHAM – St Paul’s Church,

To advertise call 0118 328 2959 | www.xnmedia.co.uk | October 2013

readifood ReadiFood are teaming up with Waitrose to collect food from local stores.

Volunteers are needed to help with the collections.

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.

v For details, contact Alison Peyton on (0118) 987 2672. email readifood@fcg.org.uk.

Reading Road. Aldworth Philharmonic in concert. 7.30pm.

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

Sunday, October 20 CROWTHORNE – St John The Baptist, Waterloo Road. Tea and Favourite Hymns: a café style event.

3.30pm-5pm.

Monday, October 21 SOUTHCOTE – Southcote Christian Mission. Reading Aglow Encounter Night for women: Caren Benstead: empowering women and being the “apple of God’s eye.” £3, first meeting free, light refreshments served. All welcome. Pampering hand massages available! Details: www.readingaglow.org.uk.

Tuesday, October 22 BINFIELD – St Mark’s Church. The Silver Service, followed by hot lunch. Noon. Transport available.

Details: binfieldchurches.org.uk.

FINCHAMPSTEAD – St James’ Church.

Breastfeeding Centre offering support and advice. 12.30pm-2pm.

Fledglings toddler and baby group.

1.45pm-4pm.

FINCHAMPSTEAD – St Mary & St John’s Parish Centre, Billing Ave. Tea & chat, all welcome. 2pm.

Wednesday, Oct 23 READING – Argyle Community Church, Argyle Street.

Commissioning service for Jo Turnbull, new Learn4Life schools worker. 7.30pm. All welcome.

READING – Henley Business School,

Messy Church is a fun event for all the family. It usually includes songs, activities, stories, crafts and snacks. For more details, contact each venue directly.

Fridays (term-time) TILEHURST – Reading Community Church, The Meadway. Messy Church under 5s. 10am-11.30am.

Date tbc UPPER BUCKLEBURY – All Saints.

3.30pm-5.15pm, includes a meal at the end. Details: www.2bsd. org.uk.

Friday, October 11 HENLEY – Christ Church, Henley Road. A Fishy Business. 4pm.

Families welcome. Details: 01491 577733 or messyhenley. wordpress.com

Sunday, October 13 CAVERSHAM – St Andrew’s Church

University of Reading. The lies we tell ourselves: ending comfortable myths about poverty with Paul Morrison, policy advisor for Joint Public Issues team for the Baptist, Methodist and URC denominations.

7.30pm. Free. All welcome.

READING – All Saints Church Hall, Downshire Square. All Saints Open Group: Dr Diana Matthews speaks on The History of Church in 25 Objects and 2 maps. £1. 7.30pm.

All welcome.

Thursday, October 24 READING – Abbey Baptist Church, Abbey Square. The Julian Meeting for silent contemplation. 10am10.45am. All welcome.

READING – Christ Church. Licensing of the Revd Dr Peter Day as priestin-charge. Time TBC. Details: www. christchurchreading.org.uk.

Friday, October 25 READING – Greyfriars, Friar Street.

What’s Gone Wrong In The City?

And How To Fix It, a seminar by Jeremy Marshall, CEO C Hoare & Co Bank. Organised

by Reading at Work, Industrial Christian Fellowship and the Reading Churches Men’s Group.

7.45pm. Details/booking: dave@ readingartwork.org.

TILEHURST – Methodist Church Hall, School Road. Triangle Players present Love Begins At Fifty, a farce. Details: www. triangleplayers.co.uk.

Saturday, October 26 BINFIELD – St Mark’s Church.

Men’s breakfast: Who Knows What I Think? 7.30am-8.45am.

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

CAVERSHAM – Caversham Heights Methodist Church, Highmoor Road.

Autumn fair. Free entry, in aid of Water Aid. 2pm.

EARLEY – Earley St Peter’s, Church Road. Come and Sing: Vivaldi’s Gloria and Handel’s Zadok the Priest. 1pm, performance 5.30pm.

Details: www.earley-stpeter.org. uk.

LOWER EARLEY – Trinity Church, Chalfont Close. Walking group meets: walks of about 4 miles.

10am. All welcome. Details: www. trinityearley.co.uk.

READING – The Pavilion, Oxford Road.

HisKidz: dads and lads session for under fives. £1 donation per family.

10.30am-12.30pm. Details: www. citylifecp.org.uk.

READING – All Nations Christian Centre, Berkeley Avenue. Women conference day: Equip And Release Women of Christ Into Holy Spirit Ministry, a day conference led by the Revd Elaine Roberts. 10am4pm. £10. Details: 0118 950 5661 or www.allnationselim.org.

READING – St Mark’s Church Hall, Cranbury Road. Disco/karaoke night. 7pm-10.30pm.

READING – Tyndale Baptist Church, Cressingham Road. Jumble sale.

11am.

TILEHURST – St Catherine of Siena, Wittenham Avenue. Jumble sale.

2pm. 50p, children free. Details: www.stcatherines-tilehurst.org.uk.

TILEHURST – Methodist Church Hall, School Road. Triangle Players present Love Begins At Fifty, a farce. Details: www. triangleplayers.co.uk.

WOODLEY – Christ Church, Crockhamwell Road. Monthly quiz night. 7.30pm. Details: www. christ-church-woodley.org.uk.

Sunday, October 27 FINCHAMPSTEAD – Sports Club Bar, Finchampstead Memorial Hall. Men Behaving Dadly: connecting Dads and men generally in the local community around the big topics in life, eg, fatherhood, marriage, etc. Details:

21

kevinli4877@hotmail.com.

WARGRAVE – St Mary’s Church.

Praise festival featuring hymns chosen by the village.

Monday, October 28 WOODLEY – Christ Church, Crockhamwell Road. Tea with toddlers. 10am. Details: www. christ-church-woodley.org.uk.

Wednesday, October 30 BINFIELD – All Saints Church.

The Julian Meeting: silent, contemplative prayer. 8pm-9pm.

All welcome. Details: Elizabeth 07855 074594.

Thursday, October 31 HENLEY – D:Two, Henley Baptist Church, Market Place. Towards Recover: creating a safe space for those in recovery from addiction.

Drop-in. 7.30pm-10pm. Details: www.towardsrecovery.co.uk.

WARGRAVE – St Mary’s Church.

Super Heroes Party for under 11s. Come dressed as your favourite hero. 3pm-4.30pm.

Booking essential. Details: www. wargravechurch.org.uk WOKINGHAM – Baptist Church, Milton Road Treasure Party: an alternative to Hallowe’en for ages 5-11. Details: www. wokinghambaptist.org.uk.

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Hall, Albert Road. Messy Church.

3.30pm-5.45pm. Details: www. standrewscaversham.org.

WOKINGHAM – Methodist Church, Rose Street. Church@4.

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Sunday, October 20

................................................... Postcode .....................

HURST – St Nicholas School Hall.

11am. All welcome.

SPENCERS WOOD – St Michael’s.

Messy church. 4pm.

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Sunday, October 29 CAVERSHAM – Baptist Church.

3.45pm-5.45pm.

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community

October 2013 | www.xnmedia.co.uk | To advertise call 0118 328 2959

Friday, November 1 HENLEY – Christ Church, Reading Road. Book launch: Jon Scourse’s The Chilterns. 7pm. £10, includes meal and music. Details: 01491 577733.

Saturday, November 2 EARLEY – Earley St Peter’s, Church Road. Men’s breakfast: Prehistoric Footprints on the Severn foreshore with Professor Bell.

7.45am. Details: www.earleystpeter.org.uk.

EMMER GREEN – St Barnabas Church. Gratis Choir in concert: Cantatas and Coronation Anthems by Bach and Handel free entry, retiring collection.

7.30pm. In aid of church’s organ restoration fund. All welcome. Details: www. gratischoir.org.uk.

NEWBURY – Kennet Christian Centre, Enborne Road. Insight Into Addictions. 9.30am-noon.

Details: Colin Powell, 01635 524730 or colin.glendale@ gmail.com SONNING – Pearson Hall. Friends of St Andrew’s autumn fayre.

1.30pm- 4pm.

Sunday, November 3 ALDERMASTON – St Mary’s. A Time To Remember: a special service to commemorate loved ones. 4pm.

All welcomed.

CAVERSHAM – Caversham Heights Methodist Church, Highmoor Road. All Souls Service. 3.30pm.

Details: www.cavhmc.org.uk.

READING – Deaf Centre, Cardiff Road. Deaf church. 10.30am.

Details: readingdeafcentre.org.uk.

FINCHAMPSTEAD – St James Church. All Souls Service. 6pm.

Wednesday, November 6 WOOLHAMPTON – St Peter’s Church. The Revd Patricia (Pat) Bhutta licensing service. 7.30pm.

Refreshments afterwards. All welcome.

Thursday, November 7 WOKINGHAM – Methodist Church, Rose Street. Charity Coffee morning in aid of Berkshire County Blind Society. 10amnoon. Details: coffeehouse@ wokinghammethodist.org.uk.

WOODLEY – Christ Church, Crockhamwell Road. Truth and Lies about Poverty - join the debate in the first of three meetings to explore the truth and lies beneath our thinking and policies. All welcome, 7.30 pm with refreshments. Details: 0776 187 8104.

Friday, November 8 CROWTHORNE – Network Vineyard Centre, Wellington Business Park.

Ladies Coffee Morning. 10am.

Details: 01344 780087.

WOOLHAMPTON – St Peter’s Church Hall. Village quiz night in aid of the church. £8, including Ploughman’s. Teams of up to 6.

Details: www.awb.org.uk.

Saturday, November 9 EARLEY – Earley St Peter’s, Church Road. Music for an Autumn afternoon: piano duets with Jonathan Cohen and Anne Nunn.

2pm. Details: www.earleystpeter.org.uk.

LOWER EARLEY – Trinity Church, Chalfont Close. Church fair and shopping event. Tables available.

Details: www.trinityearley.co.uk.

READING – English Martyr Church, Liebenrood Road. Cruse Bereavement Social group.

2pm-4pm.

RUSCOMBE – Vicarage. Benefice and LEP Bonfire and Firework. Bring one reasonably sized firework.

Soup, hot dogs and cake. 6pm.

TILEHURST – St Joseph’s Church.

Quiz night/ £5adults, £2.50 children, includes ploughman’s supper. In aid of Divine Mercy Centre in Cameroon. Details: WOKINGHAM – St Paul’s Church, Reading Road. Reading Symphony Orchestra in concert. 7.30pm.

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

FAMILY CIRCLE v Father Dr Peter Day will preside and preach his final service at St Paul’s Church, Wokingham on Sunday, October 13, at 6.15 pm, followed by refreshments in the Parish Rooms.

The church says that this will be a chance for everyone to thank him properly for his commitment, encouragement and love, during his Curacy with them.

He will be licensed as Priest in Charge of Christ Church, Reading on Thursday, October 24 at 7.30 pm.

Father Patrick King has been appointed Associate Priest of St Paul’s. He will be licensed at Woosehill Community Church on Thursday, October 10 at 7.30 pm. His first service at Woosehill Community Church will be on Sunday, October 13 at 10am, the 20th anniversary of the foundation of the church.

His first service at St Paul’s Church will be on Sunday, October 20, at 9.30am.

Mother Debbie Davison will be joining the parish in October as Assistant Curate. Her first service will be at St Nicholas’ Church on October 6 at 11am.

Her first service at St Paul’s Church will be on Sunday, October 20, at 9.30 am.

Mother Debbie’s appointment completes the new full-time team of clergy led by Rector Father Richard Lamey. v The Revd Patricia (Pat) Bhutta will be licenced at a service at St Peter’s Church in Woolhampton on Wednesday, November 6 from 7.30pm.

Keeping you in touch with each other

Jessica joins Christian Aid Although she has been working for Christian Aid for four years, Jessica Hall has switched her focus to Berkshire.

Previously she was part of the regional team supporting churches, groups and individuals as they fundraise and campaign to tackle poverty around the world.

Now she is the Regional Coordinator specifically focused on Christian Aid activities in Berkshire.

Jessica is available to speak to your group or church about Christian Aid’s work.

She can offer talks, sermons, workshops and resources that will get you thinking and stir you to action for the world’s poorest communities!

You can meet Jessica at the Christian Aid Advent Retreat on 28 November in Wokingham.

To get in touch, email jhall@christian-aid. org or call her on 01865 246818.

Everyone is weclome and refreshments will be served afterwards. v The Rt Revd Andrew Proud, Bishop of Reading, blessed a new Garden of Remembrance built at St John’s Crowthorne.

After the special service, held in August, guests enjoyed a glass of wine and slice of cake.

The Garden will be left so the grass can establish itself before being used. A feature of the garden is a new Book of Remembrance. v A SPECIAL service to remember loved ones who have died will take place next month.

St Mary’s in Aldermaston is holding A Time To Remember on Sunday, November 3 from 4pm.

The service is an opportunity to gather together, light a candle and offer prayers and thanks for the lives of the departed.

The short service will be followed by refreshments. v The Revd Canon Olivia Graham will be collated as the new Archdeacon of Berkshire at a special choral evensong to be held at ChristChurch Cathedral, Oxford on October 11.

She will be welcomed at Reading Minster church during a special service to be held on Sunday, October 13 at 4pm. v Reading Minster Boys’ Choir currently has vacancies.

The Boy Choristers are aged from 7 to around 13 and sing for Sunday services at the Minster, as well as for special services and concerts.

They rehearse on a Wednesday between 5pm and 7pm.

For details, contact the Director of Music, Peter West, by emailing music@readingminster. org.uk.

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community

To advertise call 0118 328 2959 | www.xnmedia.co.uk | October 2013

On top of the world!

23

Terrific trio of parties!

CHILDREN are being invited to three fantastic parties, all of which take place on Thursday, October 31. v In Wokingham, treasure seekers are invited to Wokingham Baptist Church.

The Milton Road church is hosting a party for children aged 5-11 and will include crafts, games and food.

For more details, log on to the church's website, www.wokinghambaptist.org. uk. vChildren in East Reading are invited to a fantastic Superheroes Party at The Warehouse in Cumberland Road.

They can come dressed as their favourite superhero and activities include a

massive new assault course, the infamous wrecking ball, popcorn and hotdogs.

There are two events.

The first runs from 5pm to 6.45pm for children aged three to six, then from 7pm to 9pm for children aged 7-11.

Adults need to stay and entry is just £1 per child.

For details, log on to www. wycliffe-church.org.uk. vIn Wargrave, members of St Mary’s Church are organising another Super Heroes Party.

It starts at 3pm and finishes at 4.30pm and is for children aged 11 and under.

You are invited to come dressed up as your favourite hero and test your strength.

For details, log on to www. wargravechurch.org.uk.

Centre needs your help Darren Whitby points out the summit of Mount Snowdon as part of his epic Challenge for Life climb

Last month, a team from Prospects supported two adults with learning disabilities as they climbed Snowdon – and, as STEVE CURTIS explains – changed perceptions of what a person with a disability can achieve

‘W

e made it!” they cried as they reached the summit of the highest mountain in the Wales.

Two men with learning disabilities had made it to the highest peak in England and Wales last month as two Christian charities joined forces to encourage young Christians to do something extraordinary alongside people with learning disabilities.

Darren and Peter have a learning disability and have challenged stereotypical perceptions of what they could achieve when they took on the challenge of climbing last month.

The pair took on the long, arduous climb up the mountain on Saturday, September 14.

Supporting them for the duration of the climb was a team from Prospects, a charity that works with people with learning disabilities, When things got tough for the pair, Darren had a wonderful answer. “When things get hard, I pray,” he said.

By climbing the highest mountain in England and Wales at an altitude of 1,085 metres (3,506ft), Darren and Peter proved to others that, with support, a person with a learning disability can achieve something beyond expectations.

Prospects have joined forces with another charity, Urban Saints (formerly Crusaders), to encourage young people to let their adventurous side out and interact with learning disabilities, and have called it Challenge for Life.

Inspired by the London 2012 Paralympic games, the charities have picked up the baton for the next generation to get involved by giving young people the opportunity to take part in a life-changing challenge.

Lord Coe said after the Paralympic Games: “London 2012 has lifted some of the clouds of limitation, that people will never see disability in the same way again.”

Over the next few years, Challenge for Life will be inspiring young Urban Saints and like-minded youth groups to take part in more mountain hikes, as well as two separate triathlon-style events in the UK. Further events will continue in 2014 through to the Rio Olympic Games 2016.

The charities are encouraging members of their local community to take part in these challenges and engage with people with learning disabilities, to fulfil a life challenge.

Prospects Fundraising Manager Gordon Gill and Assistant Director of Ministry Pete Winmill, along with a team from Urban Saints and Rock UK, supported Darren and Peter by climbing with them, and are still raising money for the challenge. v You can still support Darren by visiting the JustGiving page set up by his supporters: www. justgiving.com/petewinmill-gordongill. v To find out more about Challenge for Life, and taking part, visit: www.prospects.org.uk/ challengeforlife.

A PROJECT designed to help feed the homeless is looking for your help.

The Way meets in Coley Park Community Centre, giving food and help to homeless people on Sunday afternoons twice a month.

The centre lets the team use the site free of charge.

Grace Medford, who helps run The Way, said: “The

numbers of people attending has risen from 4 to 15.

“The All Sufficient Ministries meet in the Community Centre on a Sunday. They organised a fundraising dinner and gave us just over £200.

“We would be very grateful for donations and for clothing.”

To help, call The Way on 0788 235006.

24

SPORT

October 2013 | www.xnmedia.co.uk | To advertise call 0118 328 2959

Thames Valley Churches Football League

v Get your Kickz

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

New season kicks off in the rain

BY James Hern & Chris Barltrop

Goalmouth action from the Fly Sports Cup Picture: Malcolm Smith

I

t came as no surprise that the eve of the latest TVCFL season was marked by torrential rain; the weather having played havoc with the fixture list last year!

Despite the poor weather, last season was perhaps one of the most dramatic title races we have had in the 25 years since the league started in 1987.

West Reading CFC, a founding club of the league, won their first ever title with a win against Wycliffe Wanderers in their last game of the season – hopefully this season will be just as exciting!

Fly Sports Cup Pre-season is always a difficult time, with managers putting players through endless running drills, a bit more running and plenty of burpees and lunges.

In an effort to make it a bit more interesting, three TVCFL clubs held a 10-a-side tournament over a couple of August Wednesday evenings.

As well as providing a workout, the tournament saw players from Greyfriars FC, Finchampstead and Reading Saints raising money towards Fly Sports, a football ministry run by Manny Sharland in South Sudan, rooted in the Christian message aimed at reaching out to the youth of Mundri.

Having set up a successful football league there, Manny is now moving to a nearby town, Yei, to set up a similar league there. Manny played for Greyfriars and Lifespring in the mid-1990s. In four seasons he scored over 100 goals and won the league golden boot and player of the season in 1996. He also played basketball for Reading Rockets and Coventry!

Greyfriars Red won the competition, narrowly beating Greyfrairs Blue and Finchampstead to the first Fly Sports Championship.

The Fly Sports UK team extend their thanks to everyone involved in playing and supporting the competition.

Brookside St Laurence hold early advance Having seen the league championship slip away from their grasp towards the end of last season, Brookside St Laurence have responded well at the beginning of this season, although they have left it late in their two opening games.

They needed two late headers from defender Jonny Hare to overcome fellow title favourites Kerith FC 3-2.

Jordan Grigg and Ollie Chambers were heroes a week later as their goals in the last few minutes of the game against Norreys sealed a 4-3 win.

Having lost to a last minute goal against Bethel United the week before, Norreys can feel hard done-by but there are extremely encouraging signs for the team as they start their second full season in the league.

Senior Greyfriars FC players can’t remember the last time they were unbeaten after the first two league matches, but they find themselves in the early chasing pack on four points with Tilehurst Albion, West Reading CFC and Bethel United. Friars keeper, Rob Tebby, produced an inspired performance in

FIXTURES KICK OFF 10.30am on Saturdays v October 5 v October 19

Norreys v Finchamp’ Baptist

Tilehurst Albion v W Rdg Reserves

West Reading v Kerith FC Reading Saints v Wycliffe Wanderers

Greyfriars FC v B’side St Laurence

v October 12

Tilehurst Albion v Reading Saints Bethel United v Wycliffe Wanderers Kerith FC v W’ Rdg Reserves Finchamp’ Bap’ v Greyfriars FC West Reading v Norreys

Reading Saints v Bethel United

Kerith FC v Tilehurst Albion

v November 2

Kerith FC v Reading Saints B’side St Laurence v Bethel United Finchamp’ Baptist v Wycliffe Wanderers

Tilehurst Albion v Norreys

Greyfriars FC v West Rdg Reserves

v November 9

Wycliffe Wanderers v West Reading

Bethel United v Finchamp’ Baptist

Kerith FC v Norreys Reading Saints v B’side St Laurence

Greyfriars FC v Tilehurst Albion

the opening game of the season to keep Wycliffe Wanderers at bay. His team, duly inspired, fought from only a goal down in the second half to secure a dramatic 3-2 victory.

Champions West Reading CFC began their 2013-14 campaign in style with a comprehensive 6-0 victory over their own Reserves, while runners-up Tilehurst Albion, also scored six as they beat Finchampstead Baptist Church 6-1.

Both teams came face-to-face the following week, and shared a 1-1 draw to ensure that neither side has an advantage over the other heading into the season.

Not having a fixture in the first week of the season didn’t hamper Reading Saints as they over came West Reading Reserves 3-1 in their opening game. Saints will be looking to build on the improvement they showed last year.

Greyfriars goalkeeper Rob Tebby is the TVCFL player of the month for September, following a series of spectacular saves which have been vital to his team’s positive start.

v Mondays

v Wednesdays

The TVCFL are looking for referees from churches within the Thames Valley to help officiate games on a Saturday morning. If you’re interested, contact James: tvcfl.secretary@gmail.com

P W D L F A W D L F A GD PTS B’side St Laurence 2 2 0 0 7 5 0 0 0 0 0 2 6 West Reading 2 1 0 0 6 0 0 1 0 1 1 6 4 Tilehurst Albion 2 0 1 0 1 1 1 0 0 6 1 5 4 Greyfriars FC 2 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 4 3 1 4 Bethel United 2 0 1 0 1 1 1 0 0 1 0 1 4

Kerith FC 2 1 0 0 6 0 0 0 1 2 3 5 3 Reading Saints 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 3 1 2 3

Wycliffe Wanderers 1 0 0 1 2 3 0 0 0 0 0 -1 0

Norreys 2 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 1 3 4 -2 0 West Rdg Reserves 2 0 0 1 1 3 0 0 1 0 6 -8 0 Finchamp’ Bap’ 2 0 0 1 1 6 0 0 1 0 6 -11 0 Table correct as of September 27, 2013

Kickz kick-offs Goals, Woodley, 3.15-5.15pm

Referees wanted!

league TABLE

SECONDARY SCHOOL-AGE children in the Wokingham Borough are invited to join in an exciting new football initiative.

Kickz is a partnership between the Premier League, Reading Football Club and Wokingham Borough Council and offers free football sessions with qualified instructors.

It is open to everyone aged 11-19.

The project aims to reduce anti-social behaviour by creating safer, stronger, more respectful communities through the development of young people's potential. The free sessions run for 48 weeks of the year in Woodley, Lower Earley, Finchampstead and Wokingham.

There is no need to book; young people can just turn up and play. They simply have to fill in a consent form (which is valid all year). Under 16s need parental consent.

Paul Brown, sport development co-ordinator for Wokingham Borough Council, said: “This new scheme is a great opportunity for young people to play football for free with qualified instructors from the borough council and Reading Football Club, improve their playing ability and become more respectful young people.” v For details, 0118 974 6264.

Chalfont Courts, Lower Earley, 6-8pm

v Thursdays

FBC Centre, Finchampstead, 6-8pm

v Fridays

St Crispin’s Leisure Centre, Wokingham, 6-8pm

top SCORERS James Murdoch West Reading

William Day Kerith FC

3 3

Dan Hare Reading Saints

Jamie Carstairs West Reading

2 2

Lee Berry Kerith FC

Dan Searle West Reading

2 2

Jonny Hare Brookside St Laurence 2

Jonathan Ellis Kerith FC 2 Jake Nicholls Tilehurst Albion

Jack Peedell Tilehurst Albion

2 2

Danny Lawrence, Bryan Barrie, John Hewett, Michael Herbert, Ian Golbourne, Courtenay Isaacs, Jack Perrett, Ben Findlay, Jordan Grigg and Steve Magness all have 1

LEISURE

To advertise call 0118 328 2959 | www.xnmedia.co.uk | October 2013

BREAK TIME

Pit your wits against our brainteasers

Codeword

Kakuro

Answers are 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 Medium

4 5

7

1 4 4 5 7 4 9 9 7 4 8 5 7 9 1

4 8

1

3 1 7

2

2 5

4 7

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.

6 4 5 8 9 7

6

6

Medium

6

6

© 2011 Syndicated Puzzles, Inc.

8

www.drawingfromexperience.blogspot.com

SUDOKU Sudoku

3

5 3 2 2 1 1 5 4

3 7

7 7 4

6

2 5

5 2

© 2011 Syndicated Puzzles, Inc.

STR8TS Str8ts

25

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.

Love thy neighhour? Yeah, sure … but she lives three doors down!

26

Food

October 2013 | www.xnmedia.co.uk | To advertise call 0118 328 2959

ADVANCE NUTRITION

ptimising health , vitality & wellness with Christine Bailey, O nutritionist, chef and food/health consultant

v Natural immune support for Winter With the cooler weather and winter looming you may be looking to give your immune system some additional support.

Nutritionist Christine Bailey explains the best foods to pile on your plate

T

he change of seasons can put additional stress on the body.

A healthy immune system is dependent on an optimal intake of the right nutrients and the best way to boost these is through your diet. Here are some top immune supporting foods to include.

Oats

Oats are rich in immune supporting nutrients such as selenium and beta-glucans, which have been shown to enhance neutrophil action, a type of immune cell.

They act as a prebiotic stimulating the growth of healthy bacteria in the gut, supporting the immune function.

Mushrooms

Mushrooms particularly Shiitake, Maitake and Reishi contain immune boosting polysaccharides including beta glucans, which can enhance our body’s defences, protect against cancer and possess anti viral properties.

They also contain vitamin D. This plays a vital role in the regulation of our immune

system. Research has shown people with higher vitamin D levels are less prone to colds, flu, and other viral infections.

The main source of vitamin D is sunlight so in the winter months a supplement may be necessary but always check your vitamin D levels first via a blood test.

Green tea

Green tea contains a powerful antioxidant called epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) shown to increase the number of regulatory immune support T-cells improving immune function and reducing inflammation in the body. It has also been shown to have anti-viral properties and can decrease flu like symptoms.

Yogurt and kefir

Your digestive tract contains the largest number of immune cells of your whole body, constituting approximately 60% of your entire immune system.

Fermented foods like yogurt and kefir can help maintain healthy bacteria (probiotics) to crowd out harmful microbes and stimulate immune-cell production.

Butternut squash and sweet potato

Orange flesh fruit and veg are packed with carotenoids, Vitamin

v Chicken Ginger Miso Soup This recipe is taken from Nourish: Cancer Care Cookbook. which I wrote in collaboration with Penny Brohn Cancer Care Serves 6 Bunch of coriander leaves 3cm piece of fresh root ginger 300g bean sprouts or sprouted mung beans Handful of spinach leaves or 1 pak choy 1 red onion, finely chopped 1 red chilli, deseeded and chopped 2 garlic cloves, crushed 6 shiitake mushrooms, sliced 3tbsp goji berries Squeeze of lime juice 1tbsp white miso paste For the stock: 1 organic Chicken, about 1-1.3kg 3 litres of water 1tsp black peppercorns 3cm piece of fresh root ginger, sliced 1 large onion, cut into wedges 2 garlic cloves, crushed 2tbsp fish sauce Put the chicken in a large pan and cover with the water.

Add the peppercorns, ginger and onion and bring to the boil. Reduce to a simmer and add the fish sauce. Cook for 1 hour until A and vitamin C – essential for immune function. Vitamin A has anti-viral properties and is vital for supporting the cells of the skin, gastrointestinal tract and lungs, the main barriers that separate you from the outside world.

Salmon & oily fish

Essential fatty acids found in oily fish are important for maintaining the cells in the gut. Research suggests that an omega 3 fat known as docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) appears to increase activity of immune system cells, specially “B” white blood cells.

the meat is tender.

Remove the chicken and take off all the meat.

Place the bones back into the stock and simmer for a further hour. Strain the stock and reserve.

Discard the vegetables and bones.

When the stock is cool you can refrigerate it or freeze it if not making the soup immediately.

You can keep the stock in the fridge for 2 days and the chicken meat – keep it covered to stop it from drying out.

When you want to eat the soup bring the stock to the boil and let it simmer, adding a little fish sauce to taste. Peel and grate the ginger and to the soup with shredded chicken, spinach, beansprouts, mushrooms and spring onions.

Heat through for 2-3 minutes then add the lime juice, miso and coriander leaves. Stir for 1 minute then serve.

Whey protein

Whey protein powder provides all the key amino acids to support the production of glutathione, an immune boosting antioxidant and preserves levels of glutamine an important fuel for immune cells.

It contains several substances that enhance the immune system, including betalactoglobulin, alpha-lactalbumin, lactoperoxidase and lactoferrin.

Berries

Berries and citrus fruits are a good source of vitamin C, which enhances the production and action of white blood cells. Daily 1g doses of vitamin C have been

shown to reduce the incidence and severity of a cold so up your intake of fruit and vegetables during the winter.

Nuts and seeds

Nuts and seeds, especially sunflower seeds and almonds, are good sources of vitamin E. This is an important antioxidant and enhances certain functions of the immune system. Brazil nuts are also rich in selenium, while many nuts and seeds provide plenty of zinc.

Honey & bee propolis

Honey-lemon tea is commonly used for sore throats. The honey coats irritated membranes and soothe coughs. It also has anti-microbial properties especially Manuka or Raw honey.

Bee propolis is also known for its antimicrobial and immuneenhancing properties.

Garlic

Garlic is an immune supportive spice – it’s antibacterial, antiviral and anti-fungal. Try adding it liberally to meals through the winter to keep those colds at bay.

Elderberry

Elderberry extracts have antiviral properties and help tackle the flu virus reducing recovery time. They are available as Sambucol, a liquid supplement.

Coconut oil

Coconut oil contains monolaurin, made from lauric acid a type of medium chain triglyceride, which has been widely researched for its anti-microbial and anti-fungal properties. It is also effective against viruses including herpes virus.

Use it in cooking or add to protein shakes.

Take action

Age, stress, and poor nutrition can sap our immune system of its effectiveness. So take a look at your diet and lifestyle and make changes.

Seek professional support if needed. Don’t over look the importance of stress. High levels of anxiety are associated with decreased immune function.

Chronic stress can lead to immune alterations that persist for years. Learning how to deal with stress, rest and relaxation all form an important part in boosting our immune response.

FASHION

To advertise call 0118 328 2959 | www.xnmedia.co.uk | October 2013

ETHICAL LIVING

Changing the world, one purchase at a time

A new mobile will be the first ever handset to contain conflict-free minerals, tin and coltan from the Democratic Republic of Congo. It is made in a factory that runs to fair-trade principles and it’s a great piece of kit too.

The Fairphone will run Android 4.2, has a dual SIM capablility, 16GB internal memory, an 8 megapixel camera and a replaceable battery.

It will cost around £275.

For more details or to find out more, log on to ww.fairphone.com.

This Camomile Silky Cleansing Oil is new in at The Body Shop. This silky-soft cleanser will effortlessly remove make-up from the whole face quickly and effectively, leaving skin feeling clean, refreshed and clear of impurities. £10 for a 200ml bottle Nomads is a fair-trade etailer and its autumn range includes this delightful tunic made in organic cotton, £45.

It comes in sizes 10-18; order code is ES47. It can be ordered from www.nomadsclothing. com. A free mail order catalogue is available.

Reading’s RISC store has an exciting range of new fairly traded jewellery for you to wear. Details: www.risc.org.uk.

Bang on trend for cold autumn nights, Primark has onesies for all ages, pockets and tastes

People Tree’s Peter Jensen collection includes this Buttoned cowl neck long sleeve dress with quirky illustrated rabbit print. It’s made in soft 100% organic cotton, £85. Details: 020 7042 8900 or www.peopletree. co.uk The EJ Foundation has heaps of ethical buys including this Alice Temperley Women’s tee, £30. ejfoundation.org.

All are made with Organic cotton

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LEISURE

October 2013 | www.xnmedia.co.uk | To advertise call 0118 328 2959

ARTS

Music, drama, comedy with a local perspective

v Enjoy a friendly night of music A FUN evening is in store at Holy Trinity Church later this month.

An Evening With Friends is the theme for a night of entertainment at the church on Saturday, October 19.

Starting at 6pm, the evening is family-friendly and will include music and more.

Tickets cost £20 for families (two adults and up to three children), £5 for adults and £4 for concessions or performers.

Refreshments will be available or you can bring a bottle and hire glasses for the evening. All proceeds will go towards the church’s fundraising efforts.

v Tune in for Aldworth concert THE ALDWORTH Philharmonic Orchestra is tuning up for its October concert.

The group, comprising local musicians, will perform music

by Strauss, Moore, Tchaikovsky, Sibelius and Gabrieli on Saturday, October 19.

Conducted as ever by Andrew Taylor, the group will perform at St Paul’s Church, Reading Road, Wokingham.

It starts at 7.30pm and tickets cost £12, £10 for concessions, £5 for under 16s.

The orchestra operates a concert virgins scheme; this offers free entry to at people who have never been to a live orchestral concert before. v For details, log on to www. aldworthphilharmonic.org.uk or call 07532 217325.

v Grease night YOU’RE invited to come and singalaong to the popular musical film Grease.

Members of Reading Family Church are hosting the fun night for ladies on Saturday, October 19. It will be held at its London Street HQ from 7.30pm. Donations of £2 for refreshments are welcome. Details: www. readingfamilychurch.org.uk.

BOOKS

Rob puts his best foot forward

BY PHIL CREIGHTON

‘I

f you have a dream of doing a challenge, don’t keep putting it off.”

That’s the verdict of a man who has completed a short hike. Well, when we say short, we mean 5,000km. And when we say hike, we actually mean across mountains, deserts and skirting round the edges of restricted zones.

“If I was speaking to my 14-year-old self,” he continues, “my message is to listen to anything you dream – and that you can do more than you think of.”

It’s fair to say that Rob Lilwall likes his challenges.

The geography teacher turned explorer did that epic walk, taking in Mongolia, China and Hong Kong, all for charity.

It took him six months and numerous tubes of blister cream to take part in the trek, which has been turned into both a book and a TV series.

But it’s not his first big adventure: in 2004 he set off to Siberia with his bicyle and pedalled all the way back home.

His ride took three years, camping in -40ºC and trekking through jungles.

Rob’s wanderlust and love for the big outdoors means that he’s also walked the length of Israel and faced danger closer to home – walking the route of the M25 over six days.

So when Rob encourages

you to follow your dream he means it.

Some of Rob’s inspiration, particularly through the harder parts of his epic walk through China, came from knowing his trek would help the work of VIVA, an Oxford-based charity that helps bring about lasting change for children across the world.

It aims to connect churches and community groups together as it works across 21 countries, supporting almost a million children.

“It was a key part of my motivation,” Rob says. “When I had a bad day with lots of blisters, I often think of the money I’m raising for charity.

“I first heard about them when they preached in church and I was really inspired by the work they do.”

And despite being one of the first Westeners to do the epic trek from Mongolia to Hong Kong, Rob says that his greatest achievement is not the walk: it’s the money for VIVA.

“We raised over £50,000 in the end,” he says.

Rob’s trip took lots of preparation. And for a geography teacher, it should come as no surprise that a lot of that was spent poring over maps.

“There were a million things to try and get ready, including getting all the equipment needed, sort out cameras and plan the route. The planning process was delayed, we’d planned to go in summer but ended up setting off as winter was arriving.

“That added to the burden – we a lot more things to carry.”

The trek was carried out with cameraman Leon McCarron, who filmed the trip for a TV series which will be shown in November. It was a tough trip with, at times, food and money running out.

“I hate instant noodles now!” Rob says, thinking back of the times when all he could afford to eat was the quick boiled snack.

It was a memorable trip, even if the idea behind it was slightly loopy.

“Setting off [on the trip] was a bit crazy, just me and Leon. As the trip went on it went crazier and crazier … but it become normal to do crazy things.”

Quite what, you’ll need to read his book to find out.

He also picked up the language, listening to lessons on his iPod while walking, before practising with the natives.

Even adventurers appreciate their home comforts.

Rob recalls: “It was amazing how hospitable everyone was.

They welcomed us with very open arms, inviting us in to a nice warm home.

“It was really humbling.” v Walking Home from Mongolia: Ten Million Steps Through China, from the Gobi Desert to the South China Sea by Rob Lilwall is published

by Hodder, £13.99. ISBN: 978-1444745283

CHORAL

Ben’s on song for Henley Choral Society Henley’s Choral Society is proving that it’s on song with the appointment of its new musical director.

Benjamin Goodson, a tenor lay clerk at St Alban’s Cathedral, says he is delighted to have joined.

The society’s chair, Melissa

Ewen, says: “He has an indefinable quality that shines through.”

Ben said: “I look forward to building on the great foundation that Will Dawes developed.”

The Society will join Henley’s Living Advent Calendar on Thursday, December 5, and a

Christmas concert at St Mary’s Henley, on Tuesday, December 10.

New members are welcome.

Rehearsals are held at d:two, Henley, on Monday evenings. v For details, call Membership Secretary, Wendy Hawkins on 01491 576929 or visit www. henleychoralsociety.org.uk.

LEISURE

To advertise call 0118 328 2959 | www.xnmedia.co.uk | October 2013

29

REVIEW

A fresh take on the tale of Romeo Reading Between The Lines present Romeo & Juliet Reading Minster Church, September 16

S

hakespeare returns to town, as local theatre company Reading Between the Lines bring a modern day adaptation of Romeo and Juliet to Reading Minster.

Dubstep, smoke, furious fights and Shakespeare combine to bring the town of Reading one of the most exciting productions you’ll see this year.

As you walk into the beautiful Reading Minster of St Mary the Virgin, you can tell that this won’t be a traditional rendition of Shakespeare’s most famous work. The stage is a bright flashing sign on top of a scaffolding set, corrugated steel and cardboard squares littered around the area and a misty haze in the air.

Set in 2023, the city of Verona has been wrecked by an earthquake and the uprising that followed. The city is threatened by the hatred between two familiar names - the Montagues and the Capulets.

Reading Between the Lines have created a play that would easily fit into the West End scene.

The striking stage in Reading Minster For every ‘art’ and ‘thou’ that is spat, there’s a cocky modern-day teen mannerism thrown in not long after; yet the dialogue doesn’t stray too far from Shakespeare’s original. The storyline is the same as it has always been, but with a modern, grimier twist that makes for brand new viewing.

The actors take to their roles as though they were born for them, with each character utterly believable, dressed in costumes that would fit into a fantasy role playing game and

delivering their lines so well you could easily forget that this is a play put on by a company that started only 18 months ago.

Dubstep, dancing, screaming and shouting are a fixture throughout the fascinating first half. Amazing brawls, stunning slow-motion moments and the hilarious euphemisms that are littered throughout Shakespeare’s work are wonderfully scattered throughout what is a dynamic and mind-blowing first half.

The second half of the play takes a much gentler tone as the storyline unravels, and events go drastically downhill – but don’t worry, there are still some subtle modernities thrown in to keep it fresh.

The play gets no less exciting as the brawls cease, the characters’ lines delivered in a dramatic and spinetingling fashion that excites in an entirely different way.

In the programme notes, Director Hal Chambers asks for the audience to approach this as if it were a new play, but there are no difficulties in doing so as he morphs Romeo and Juliet into a fresh and exciting production worth remembering.

It’s Shakespeare like you’ve never seen it before.

STEVE CURTIS

CONCERT

Last Night star’s special message to Twyford singer

By Brian Roach Twyford mezzo soprano Felicity Buckland had a shock when she checked Twitter just hours before singing in a Last Night of the Proms event.

She discovered a personal good luck wish from American born singer Joyce DiDonato, star soloist at the real Last Night of the Proms, held in the Royal Albert Hall at the same time.

It was sent to her just a couple of hours before Joyce went on stage in London and Felicity sang in Twyford, where around 250 people had gathered in St Mary’s Church, Twyford, to watch the Proms on a big screen.

“During the afternoon I sent a tweet to friends saying that my sister Liberty and I were singing at St Mary’s that evening,” explained Felicity.

“I mentioned Joyce DiDonato

Felicity Buckland, the vicar of Twyford and Ruscombe with Hurst, the Rev. Simon Howard, and Liberty Buckland. in the tweet. She must have seen it somehow because to my complete surprise I then received a tweet from her which said ‘Felicity you will be fabulous. Bring it home.’

“We exchanged another tweet message and not long

afterwards I watched her starring in the Proms. It was just so amazing.”

Felicity is a professional singer whose next performance is with Surrey Opera in Croydon.

Liberty, also from Twyford,

is studying for a career in musical theatre.

On Saturday, September 7, they sang at St Mary’s as part of a live performance, which included local pop group Scoops and theatre group Stage Fright, before the Proms concert was screened.

The successful night was capped by the surprise appearance during the singing of Auld Lang Syne by Pipe Sergeant Charlie Sim from the IHS Reading Scottish Pipe Band.

The evening raised £1355.68 and organisers are delighted with how it went.

“It was a wonderful evening which more than met our expectations,” said organiser Paul Bromley. “Money raised will go towards improving the lighting in the church.” v For more details, log on to www.rustwychurch.org

v Time for tea FORGET the tea dance, here comes the tea concert!

Swallowfield Parish Hall will be the venue for an evening of music from the 1920s to the 1980s, as well as some favourite classics.

Every piece of music will be performed a cappella and accompanied by the Belle Canto trio, barbershop quartet Fino, The Jackson Duo, David Harrison on keyboard and Paul Netherton on drums.

The evening will be presented by Raymond Burton and it’s all in aid of the Riseley Village Tea Room.

The concert takes place on Saturday, October 19 from 7.30pm. v Tickets cost £10 and can be bought by visiting Swallowfield Post Office or call 0118 988 2530.

v I’ll be Bach The Reading Bach Choir has announced its plans and hopes for the 2013-14 concert season.

The group of singers has made a video which is available to watch on our website, xnmedia.co.uk. It includes snippets of the choir in action.

Spokeperson for Reading Bach choir, Daphne Rowbottom, says: “The coming season is going to be particularly exciting because we have commissioned a new piece from Gabriel Jackson which we will be performing next summer at St James, near the Forbury and Abbey ruins.”

v See the show CREATIVE artwork made by Stoke Row residents went on show earlier this month.

The Stoke Row Chapel held its annual art exhibition from October 1-5.

It showcased wonderful local artistic creativity and flair for colour, style and beauty.

Work was made by people who attend the church’s weekly arts club, which meets on Wednesdays from 10am. v For more on the club, visit www.stokerowchapel.org.uk.

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ARTS

October 2013 | www.xnmedia.co.uk | To advertise call 0118 328 2959

Learn about The Chilterns A NEW book will reveal all about the Chiltern Hills.

The Hills are an area of exceptional natural beauty and comprise roling hills, wooded valleys and beautiful brick and flint villages.

It’s also right on our doorstep ... but how well do you know the terrain?

All will be revealed on Friday, November 1 when author Jon Scourse will give an illustrated talk about his new book which is simply called The Chilterns.

From the 18th century, the area’s proximity to London made it a favoured location for the country estates of the rich, and more recently for the home-base of city commuters.

However, away from the motorways and major roads, the red kites foretell a quieter pace of life, with small lanes bordered

by deep beech hedges, wonderful woods and beautiful villages, most with a pub and a church.

Jon’s book offers an authoritative view of this precious landscape, which features more than 200 specially taken photographs.

Jon says: “Capturing the beauty of our landscapes is a spiritually uplifting experience. The variety of our world never ceases to astonish me.”

The book is launched with a dinner that take places at The Christ Church Centre, Reading Road, Henley on November 1 from 7pm.

Tickets cost £10 and include a meal and music from Ken Fitt. There will be a raffle and the opportunity to purchase signed copies of the book. v Tickets are available by calling the church on 01491 577733 or visiting christchurchhenley. org.uk.

ROUND-UP

Your chance to meet the Warriors

The Osiligi Maasai Warrior Troupe

v

A FORTHCOMING concert is more than just a fundraising event – it’s lifesaving.

The Osiligi Maasai Warrior Troupe is coming to All Saints Wokingham on Sunday, October 13, for an afternoon of African culture.

The troupe was founded in 2004 and goes on an annual tour to raise money for the families within their community, which is situated some 30 miles Southwest of Nairobi Kenya.

The Troupe’s music is said to be incredible, mesmerising to hear and certainly fascinating to watch.

As a direct result of their visits, the community now has fresh clean water, solar lights, built a church/community centre and a six classroom primary school, complete with kitchen, dining room, and teachers’ houses.

The charity has sponsored all 65 children, from very poor families, who attend the school.

The entertaining concert starts at 2.30pm and everyone is welcome. As well as the chance to meet the Warriors, you’ll be able to buy some crafts and goods to take home or give as presents.

Tickets cost £12 and £1 for children. Tickets can be bought from All Saints Parish Office or from Bookends, Peach Street, Wokingham. v For more on the Warriors’ amazing story, log on to www.osiligi.org.

v

AN OPPORTUNITY to sing two popular choral works is coming up later this month.

Earley St Peter’s church is hosting a Come and Sing event on Saturday, October 26.

The choir will be performimg Vivaldi’s Gloria and Handel’s Zadok the Priest. Rehearsals take place in the afternoon, followed by an informal concert.

The day will be led by Amber Nunn and the organist will be Simon Hogan, the assistant director of music of Southwell Minster.

The event follows in the footsteps of a previous Come and Sing where Stainer’s Crucifixion was performed.

The event is suitable for both seasoned singers and newcomers and takes place at the church in Church Road, Earley. Registration starts at 1pm, with the concert taking place at 5.30pm.

It costs £15 for singers, £5 for concessions or to listen to the concert. v The church will also be the venue for an afternoon concert next month.

Friends of Earley St Peter will be hosting Music for an Autumn Afternoon on Saturday, November 9 from 2pm.

Jonathan Cohen and Anne Nunn will perform some piano duets for your pleasure and the concert will be followed by refreshments in the Church Hall. v For more details on these concerts, log on to www.earley-stpeter.org.uk.

v

A QUINTET of musical talent will be tuning up to come together for a very special fundraising event next month.

Members of Lifted Gospel choir, rock band Broken State, funkalicious rock band High Top Heroes and solo artist Andrea Hull will be joined by the Vineyard Band for the concert at The Pavilion, Oxford Road on Saturday, October 19.

Starting at 7pm, there will be canapes and nonalcoholic drinks available. v Tickets cost £10 and can be ordered from musicalextravaganza.eventbrite.co.uk.

v

ART LOVERS are invited to St Joseph’s College in Reading later this month for a special exhibition.

Organised by the Rotary Club, the Reading Art Exhibition runs on Saturday, October 26 - and Sunday, October 27 between 10am and 4pm.

Entry is £4 and art is for sale. v www.readingrotary.org.uk.

What do you think? Have your say on our Facebook page or tweet us @xnmedia

ARTS REVIEWS

To advertise call 0118 328 2959 | www.xnmedia.co.uk | October 2013

Moviewatch Healing in the stars

v The write stuff

Cinema with Martin Ceaser

Matt Damon (right) and Jose Pablo Cantillo in Elysium

v Elysium (15)

Stars Matt Damon, Jodie Foster, Sharito Copley, Alice Braga

I

magine looking up into the sky and seeing a place where you know there is no sickness, poverty, or lack of any good thing.

Then imagine never being able to get there. This is the premise behind Elysium.

During the late 21st century things on earth have gone terribly wrong; society has broken down and the rich and influential have fled to a space station where hunger, poverty and suffering simply do not exist, because they are kept out, by force if necessary, under tough “anti-immigration” laws which are enforced by the ruthless Secretary Delacourt (Foster).

Enter Max (Damon) – orphan, thief, good for nothing but with a prophetic sense of destiny about getting to Elysium, with his childhood friend Frey (Braga). Beaten up by robot police on his way to work, and then exposed to a fatal dose of radiation, Max’s only hope is to get to Elysium where he can be healed.

To get there he has to steal the contents of someone else’s mind: Success means healing for him and hope for millions left behind on earth.

Failure does not bear thinking about.

In a day when we see many good sci-fi programmes and films, this one stands out. It’s characters are realistic; more than that, they are recognisable in our own society.

The division between rich and poor has simply moved from gated estates to an orbiting space station - not as

31

big a jump as we may once have thought.

Damon is superb as the nobody who takes on the “Establishment” on behalf of all the downtrodden people, a kind of merging together of Robin Hood, Neo and Superman who develops from a self-centred attitude to a selfless one helped in no small part by Frey’s terminally ill daughter and a promise he made to Frey when they were children.

If you want action, this film has it. Special effects, yes.

Drama, and tragedy, yes. Stirring music, you guessed it ... yes. And a happy ending? Well, watch it and find out!

One word of warning-there are some graphic, gory scenes.

And quite a lot of swearing.

Links for discussion... the divide between rich and poor; immigration; justice; the hope of a “Better Place”, and how to get there; suffering, both at the hands of others and for the benefit of others; courage; and sacrifice that brings that “Better Place” within the reach of everyone, not just the privileged few.

As another reviewer puts it, Elysium is a collection of “parables in space. All good parables require interpretation. For those who have ears, let them hear.”

The Revd Martin Ceaser is minister of Crowthorne Baptist Church

SOLUTIONS

NORMALLY if you go to the theatre, you only get to see one play.

But take a trip to one Reading-based group later this month and you’ll get eight plays for the price of one.

Progress Theatre’s annual WriteFest showcases one-act plays by new writers and will be performed at their Christchurch Road base from Wednesday, October 16 to Saturday, October 19.

The plays cover everything from romance to hospital drama and also include a play that imagines what an Angel would tell God about what we think about the Bible.

The evening is introduced by a talented compere and the acts are brought to life by local talent.

Tickets cost £8 or £6 for concessions.

In November, the group will be performing Ron Hutchinson’s Moonlight and Magnolias, which takes a wry look at the story behind Gone With The Wind. v Tickets can be booked by calling the Reading arts box office on 0118 960 6060 or logging on to www. progresstheatre.co.uk.

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Kakuro

Windows of Opportunity Conference You are invited to explore some exciting and innovative examples of churches and faith groups making a real difference in their communities.

At a time when local authority services are being cut back, this is an opportunity to explore how we can all respond effectively to local needs.

The event will include presentations from senior health and local authority from the Wokingham area, and those with national experience and perspectives. There will also be themed workshops to explore next steps locally.

SPEAkErS Adam Dyer Ambassador for Cinnamon Network and leader of Yeovil Community Church Josie Wragg Head of Community Sustainability, Wokingham Borough Council Danny Webster Parliamentary Officer for Evangelical Alliance Dr Stephen Madgwick Chairman & Clinical Lead of NHS Wokingham Clinical Commissioning Group

EVENT DETAILS Date

Tuesday 15th October 2013, 10.30am - 3.30pm

Cost

Free of charge

Food

Refreshments and lunch will be provided

Venue

The Oakwood Centre, Headley Road, Woodley, Berkshire, RG5 4JZ

Parking There is a public car park opposite the Oakwood Centre

To register or for more information please email Sharon Elliott on sharon.elliott@mac.com, call 07843 091950 or visit our website www.the-network.info This event is being organised by Faith in the Community with financial support from The Cinnamon Network.