Xn December - Christmas 2012

DecemBER 2012 ISSN 2049-4971

Good news from across the Thames Valley

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December 2012 | www.xnmedia.co.uk | To advertise call 01932 888417

v Get in touch! email your stories to editor@xnmedia.co.uk Deadline for January issue Friday, December 14

Editor’s letter

Yes, we WILL remember them

Phil Creighton I’m a parent to two small bundles of joy: one’s just started school and the other is possibly the biggest Octonauts fan you’re ever likely to meet.

Like any parent, I remember all the hustle and bustle as we prepared for their arrivals. Tidying, decorating, buying, sorting, reading up, learning, praying and hoping; I think it’s technically called nesting and it was a lot of work.

It might seem like a lot of fuss, but as any parent will tell you, it’s worth it. You can’t have a baby without preparing yourself.

And that’s exactly where we are now. The days before Christmas form Advent, the countdown to December 25. All that present buying, partygoing, card writing and house decorating are all ways in which we prepare for … well, not for a random date on the calendar, but to celebrate the birth of a baby. A baby who would change the world, then and now.

Want to know more? There are lots of events this month where you can hear all about it – check out these pages or log on to our website! In the meantime, have a very Happy Christmas! editor@xnmedia.co.uk

We want to hear from you!

Contact us with your stories, letters and comments. It’s really easy! If you have something to send us, you can email it to: editor@xnmedia.co.uk, or you can write to Xn Media, c/o Abbey Baptist Church, Abbey Square, Reading RG1 3BE. We look forward to hearing from you!

v Corrections

THE MADEJSKI Stadium was the venue for a special Remembrance Service for those who have died at war. Reading FC chairman Sir John Madejski was one of the people in attendance.

The stadium – home to the Royals and London Irish rugby football squad – has built a memorial plaque into an outside wall with the names of former players who died in the war.

The short service was held on Saturday, November 10, at 1pm ahead of Reading’s 0-0 draw with Norwich City.

The Revd Vernon Orr, vicar of St Agnes’ church in Whitley, led the service in place of Reading’s chaplain Steve Prince, who was on holiday.

Vernon said: “People were very respectful and engaged with the service,” adding that 40-50 people attended, including some Norwich fans.

The service was organised after members of the Supporters Trust at Reading (STAR) conducted a supporters trip to the Somme with a military historian, and visited some of the graves of the players.

Dave Strawn, a member of the STAR committee arranged the act of remembrance, which took place outside Gate 10 of the stadium.

“It went so well, all those involved felt it should be an annual thing,” Vernon explained.

“This event quite uniquely brings together the church, the community and the football club together in remembrance.”

Reaching across the generations

v In October’s issue, we didn’t let you know that Kingdom Coffee’s Roland Norman was sitting next to the Reading-based firm’s managing director, Darren Rayner.

Apologies. For more on Kingdom Coffee’s work and its support for Fairtrade Plus, log on to www.kingdomcoffee.co.uk. Picture: Lynda Bowyer

Albert Waller and George Ward told Joseph, Naomi and special guest Samy the Seahorse from Whiteknights Primary School all about their medals and what they represented at Abbey Baptist Church in central Reading on Remembrance Day. The pair shared their stories as part of a special children’s talk before a two-minute silence.

v In the November issue, we gave incorrect details to the Remembrance Service in Finchampstead. We corrected this online ahead of Remembrance Day, but would like to apologise to St James Finchampstead for our mistake.

Xn is published by Xn Media. ISSN 2049-4971 c/o Abbey Baptist Church, Abbey Square, Reading RG1 3BE www.xnmedia.co.uk Twitter: @xnmedia Editor & publisher Phil Creighton editor@xnmedia.co.uk Reporter Steve Curtis steve@xnmedia.co.uk Distribution Judith Creighton judith@xnmedia.co.uk Contributors Lynda Bowyer, Michael Penny, Steve Vaughan-Turner, Sally Hamblin, Steve Prince, James Hern, Chris Carter, Laura Bigoni, Jenny Owen Thanks to Michael Penny, Alan Magness, Louise Cole, Mary Brockington, Sharon Elliott, Paul Burnish

Advertising Hinton Media Services Ltd 01932 888417 advertising@xnmedia.co.uk Printed by Trinity Mirror Reading Xn is an independent community publication that aims to reflect church life across all denominations 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.

New Archbishop will make us proud THE BISHOP of Reading thinks that the new Archbishop of Canterbury will do a great job – and has backed him to be able to speak to the world.

The new Archbishop of Canterbury, Rt Revd Justin Welby will be the 105th instalment of the position, succeeding the Rt Revd Dr Rowan Williams, who is retiring.

Speaking about Bishop Welby’s appointment, the Bishop of Reading, the Rt Revd Andrew

Proud, said: “I think he’s going to be a very good thing for the Church of England.”

The new Archbishop has worked as an oil engineer in the past, and has even been held at gunpoint by Nigerian soldiers.

These experiences have helped him to “develop a huge interest in reconciliation”, said Bishop Andrew, who added that Bishop Welby “will be bringing all of that with him” to the role.

“I think he’ll be able to talk

to the world in a way that the world will be able to understand.

“He doesn’t fit into any mould.

He can relate to everyone.”

The Bishop also said that despite the controversies surrounding the Church of England, it is the Gospel that should come first.

“It’s a really impossible job,” Bishop Andrew added.

Bishop Welby will be installed in the post at Canterbury Cathedral on March 21, 2013.

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To advertise call 01932 888417 | www.xnmedia.co.uk | December 2012

That’s NEET – new mentoring charity gets off to a flying start A NEW mentoring scheme will empower disadvantaged young people and teenagers to take their first steps on the career ladder.

Starting Point Reading reaches out to youngsters aged 16 to 25 who are not in education, employment or training (NEETs) – pairing them up with mentors to gain work experience, internships or permanent positions.

The project is run by Readingbased charity the Mustard Tree Foundation and has received an initial £30,000 cash boost from Reading Borough Council’s Local Strategic Partnership (LSP) and Reading Family Church.

It was launched at a special supporters’ gathering held last month in BB’s Coffee and Muffins in The Oracle. Those present included Reading West MP Alok Sharma.

Starting Point Reading’s project manager Rachel Green said: “There are so many opportunities available to young people in Reading but unfortunately getting your foot on the first rung of the ladder is often the hardest step to make.

“What we aim to be is a place where young people who would like a job, training or education, can come and be partnered with

Reading West MP Alok Sharma (kneeling on right) joined the launch of Starting Point Reading at The Oracle a mentor who will help them explore their options.”

Starting Point Reading has also partnered with Reward Your World to offer young people on placements the opportunity to receive Reward Points for the time that they give to different voluntary sector opportunities.

This will not only incentivise but also reward them for the time that they give in specific placement opportunities.

So far 24 mentors have signed up, including Lis Rout who works

for pregnancy advice centre Reading Lifeline.

She urged more businesses and community groups to get involved and told the audience: “I’m excited about following a young person and encouraging them to look outside of the box and try new things, have a go and learn from the experience.”

Three youngsters are already being helped by the scheme and more will be referred from Jobcentre Plus.

Thames Water, BG Group,

Christian Community Action and Reading4U community radio are among the companies and charities offering placements in everything from construction to catering, plus retail, media and horticulture.

Reading West MP Alok Sharma offered his support as a mentor and stressed the project will help equip youths with vital skills needed to help the town and the country compete in the globalised world. v startingpointreading.co.uk

Church, said: “I regularly meet people struggling with financial difficulties and debt. I have seen a number of people, of late, who despite working full-time, only have about £25 per week left for food and household shopping after paying all their other bills.”

The calculated wage increased last month, with people outside of London figured to need £7.45 an hour, and people in the capital

needing £8.55 an hour.

The current minimum wage is £6.19 for people aged 21 and over, £4.98 for people aged 18-20 and people under the age of 18 £3.68. This means some are left short of cash for basic necessities.

“This is just not adequate and places enormous pressures on the individuals and families on the lowest incomes in our community,” said Sue. “It is

my view that the adoption of a Living Wage could only be of benefit to such families.”

Last month, Labour leader Ed Miliband said that should Labour win the next election he would deliver the living wage to millions of people across the UK. Boris Johnson, Mayor of London, said that staff employed by central government should be paid the living wage to enjoy a decent standard of living.

Living Wage campaign gathers momentum THE LIVING Wage initiative has gathered momentum in recent weeks, as Boris Johnson and Ed Miliband have both thrown their weight behind it.

The living wage is calculated according to the basic cost of living in the UK. Currently, employers choose to pay the living wage on a voluntary basis.

Sue Winyard, of Christians Against Poverty which is based at Reading Community

EXCEPTIONAL CRAFT MADE ARTICLES FOR THE HOME

v Crowthorne gets food bank CROWTHORNE now has a foodbank after members of a local church sacrificed their time to make it happen.

Members of the Vineyard Church have given their time and skills to renovate what is fondly known as The Shed to start operating as a foodbank.

Crowthorne Foodbank will have its opening ceremony on Thursday, December 6 from noon to 2pm, at 1 High Street.

Cllr Bob Wade, Chairman of Crowthorne Parish Council, will open the bank, along with representatives from Bracknell Foodbank, frontline care professional agencies and other local people.

Jane Anscombe, Vineyard Centre manager said: “Our church ethos is that we should be serving our community and so when the possibility of acquiring The Shed was given to us, we were very excited and took the opportunity.”

TRANSFORMED The Shed is rented from Edwards and Sons, and Vineyard have transformed it over the past few months from the remains of a repair shop.

The work was carried out on a low budget and organisers of the new Foodbank have thanked local companies and shops who have donated items towards the renovation.

The new Foodbank is partnering with Bracknell Foodbank, based in Kerith Centre – part of Kerith Community Church – who have welcomed them after becoming busy and helping those in need in Crowthorne and Sandhurst.

It intends to open the Foodbank to clients two days a week to start with. v For more information, call (01344) 780 087.

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v Christmas preparations v There’s more – lots more – about Christmas on our website, www. xnmedia.co.uk Christmas at

Wokingham Baptist Church – all welcome!

Milton Road, Wokingham RG40 1DE • Carols by candlelight Sunday, 23rd December, 6.30pm.

• Celebrating Christmas with Children Christmas Eve 4pm-4.30pm Telling the story with under 5s Christmas Day service 10-11am

Continental Christmas Market St Michael’s Church Hall, The Meadway, Tilehurst Friday December 7th 6-9 pm Mulled wine, sausage sizzle, handmade gifts, soaps and cards Big raffle and tombola Santa’s grotto Further information ring Jackie on 07783 815 124

sations taking part in the ating of the Christmas trees

y Centre entrance:

in the Landing m Art Society as trees m Horticultural Association

m Flower Club

w

esearch UK

alley Ramblers ngham Beaver Scouts Singers

ngham Brownie Pack Nursery

m Embroiderers Guild Junior School ateway e ng Scheme ns Guild of Spinners, Weavers and Dyers

ngham Methodist Guide Company CE (Aided) Primary School Toby Homes t Group County Blind Society

nfant School m District Mencap ile uild Childbirth Trust

FESTIVAL OF CHRISTMAS TREES

40 Christmas Trees 40 decorated by the Community Christmas Trees for the Community decorated by the Friday Community FESTIVAL OF 7 Dec 10am-4.30pm for the Community CHRISTMAS TREES Saturday 8 Dec 10am-4.30pm

Main Hall—Sunday)

et Toddler Group (large tree left in church) et Nursery Group

m Lacemakers horns Primary School Douglas House

e

urch nd Dyers

Group Players

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eft in church)

Advent

December 2012 | www.xnmedia.co.uk | To advertise call 01932 888417

Friday

Sunday 9 Dec 12noon-4pm

9th December 10—4.30pm

Saturday 10th December 10—4.30pm wokinghammethodist.org.uk

40 Christmas2012 Treesat Christmas decorated Abbey Baptist Church Sunday, December 16 by the Community Carols by Candlelight, 4.30pm for the Community Christmas Eve Sunday

11th December 12—4.00pm

Midnight communion, 11.30pm Christmas Day 10—4.30pm Friday 9th December Family10th celebration, Saturday December 10.30am 10—4.30pm Sunday December 12—4.00pm Abbey11th Baptist Church,

Abbey Square, Reading RG1 3BE 0118 957 2197 abbeybaptistchurch.org.uk

A Festival of Christmas Trees Saturday December 8– Sunday, December 16

Trinity Church Lower Earley, Chalfont Close, RG6 5HZ, is open every day 10am to 5pm for all to enjoy 40 decorated Christmas Trees.

In aid of Just Around the Corner – known as ‘JAC’.

More information ring Reading 975 7441

Turkey, tinsel & company TURKEY, tinsel and company is on the menu for older members of the local community in Bracknell.

Easthampstead Baptist Church (EBC) is planning a festive holiday at home event for the elderly just after Christmas.

From December 27-28, the church just outside Bracknell is hosting a special get-together between 10am-4pm.

Pastor Chris Porter said: “We have a thriving ministry for older people that has grown over the years.”

He added that the annual event is aimed at “people on their own, or who might not get a holiday, or meet others”.

Turkey and Tinsel is a sister event to a summer Holidays At Home week.

Simon Lace, EBC’s Older Person’s Worker, said that it “started on the basis of ‘lets do what they want to have done’”.

This meant that a survey was conducted, and the top 10 answers were selected to construct the Holidays at Home programme.

“They get very well fed,” said Chris of one aspect of the events, which also includes craft, bingo and a carol service.

There is even a panto, Simon said: “We do our own one-hour DIY Cinderella, so

Easthampstead Baptist Church will provide festive fun for elderly people this Christmas – including a visit from a certain chap with a red suit (inset) for it all to be about God,” he we have a 90-year-old Prince said. “If God happens to make Charming and an 80-year-old his presence felt, that’s great.”

Cinderella.”

This year will be the third Simon is a former manager year that Turkey and Tinsel of a health and fitness has been part of EBC’s club, and he was eager to Christmas programme. Lifts incorporate a fitness regime to the church are available if into the programme. needed.

“The more I thought about The Turkey and Tinsel is it, the more it made sense,” just one of a number of things he said. “It’s about attracting that EBC hosts as part of their people and keeping people. elderly ministry – they also “I think God has been hold twice-monthly Songs training me for this ministry.” of Praise-style services and He shares the exercising a Tuesday afternoon Bingo sessions with Ali Cannon, who clubs. works at a Rosemary Conley Diet and Fitness club. v For more information, log on Simon sees Tinsel and to www.ebc-bracknell.org, email Turkey as more than officestaff@ebc-bracknell.org just a get-together. or call (01344) 487744.

“It’s a great excuse STEVE CURTIS

Enjoy a Christmas holiday at home A WEEK of festive fun is available to those in the Cranbourne area.

From Christmas Day until New Year’s Day, Winkfield and Cranbourne churches are holding a Christmas at Cranbourne event, similar to their Holidays@Home week.

On Christmas Day there will

be a party, and Boxing Day will have a film afternoon with tea.

On December 27 the festive activities continue with afternoon tea and a singalong.

On Friday, December 28, there will be a bingo session.

Then, on December 29 the church will have a fun and

fitness session to burn off the Christmas calories, and New Year’s day will have a service starting at noon followed by a lunch. v For more details, contact Paula Darrall on (01344) 886872 or email pauladarrall@ aol.com.

v Don’t be alone on Christmas Day … see page 15 for more Experience the Living Nativity

WOODLEY BAPTIST CHURCH

Christmas Café

16 December 2012 6.30pm-8.30pm admission by free ticket contact: office@woodleybc.org

Listen in as the angel speaks to Mary, see wise men following the star, marvel with the shepherds at the news the angels bring and find the baby Jesus in the manger.

Live animals – donkey, goats, sheep Dress warmly – this outdoor experience will take about 30 minutes Refreshment stalls | Parking available Newbold Church grounds, Popeswood Road, Binfield (near Bracknell) RG42 4AN

Sunday 9 December 4pm-7pm

v See the Christmas story come to life v AN OUTDOOR Nativity experience is coming to Binfield later this month.

Newbold College is holding a Living Nativity experience and is inviting everyone to come along and enjoy it.

With real goats, sheep and a donkey to attend, this production retells the tale of the birth of Jesus using the College’s grounds as the backdrop.

The nativity will take place between 4-7pm on Sunday, December 9 and include refreshment stalls too.

It takes around 30 minutes to go round and guests are encouraged to dress warmly. v THE CHRISTMAS story will come alive in Reading this month, as Mary rides into town on a donkey.

On Saturday, December 23, Mary will pass the Royal Berkshire Hospital when a Living Nativity gathers round the Christmas tree in the car park, while on the way from Wesley Methodist Church to St Andrew’s Reformed Church.

You can meet the characters from 2.45pm at Wesley, and join the procession from 3pm.

Refreshments will be served at St Andrew’s before a carol service takes place. v MORE THAN 1,000 people are expected to head to a barn on Christmas Eve to see a baby.

Rushall Farm in Bradfield hosts an annual Christmas Eve service at 3pm or 5.30pm.

Entitled Christmas Eve in the Barn, it will include carols, sketches, dancing and songs that retell the Christmas story.

It lasts for about an hour and is suitable for all ages.

Attendees are advised to dress warmly and bring a torch. v For more information, phone (0118) 974 4547.

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To advertise call 01932 888417 | www.xnmedia.co.uk | December 2012

v Christmas preparations

Join

and sing carols

A LOCAL shopping centre is to be the venue for a special carol singing event on the night before Christmas.

Community Carols In The Mall will take place at 4.30pm on Christmas Eve in Broad Street Mall, Broad Street, Reading and will be an opportunity for all ages to unite to sing a festive music.

The event is backed by Xn, Broad Street Mall and the Reading Post.

Lasting about 40 minutes, Community Carols In The Mall will see the Reading Minster Boys Choir lead the singing, accompanied by members of the Reading Central Salvation Army Brass Band.

And you don’t need to worry about carol

singing in the dark, cold, rain or snow as the whole event will take place in Broad Street Mall itself.

The event is based on a similar initiative that has been held in Canterbury since 1951, and sees the Archbishop of Canterbury take part.

The Reading event is being organised by Phil Creighton, editor of Xn. “What better way to get ready for the big day than coming together as a town to sing of the season?” he said. “We hope the whole town will dress up, come along and join in.” v Downloadable song sheets for the event on our website, www.xnmedia.co.uk from December 20.

Trees-ey does it!

Park United Reformed Church in East Reading combined a Christmas Tree Festival with its Christmas Fair on Saturday, November 24. Local groups, including Progress Theatre, contributed trees to the fun event.

It’s just one of several Christmas Tree Festivals coming up in the run-up to Christmas.

v Purley

v Twyford

v Wokingham

CHRISTMAS trees are getting a makeover by the residents of Purley.

St Mary’s Church in Purleyon-Thames will have a weekend where the decorated festive firs will be on show to raise funds for charities.

Taking place over Saturday, December 8 and Sunday, December 9 the church will be full of Christmas trees, which are decorated by local groups.

Refreshments will also be available.

The trees are available to view on the Saturday from 10am-7pm, and 12.30pm-6pm on Sunday.

A MAGICAL Christmas tree festival is hoping to delight you with some fascinating decorations.

St Mary’s, Twyford, is holding their festival from Thursday, December 6 until Sunday, December 9.

As well as the trees, there will be special events, including magic with Steve Price on the Saturday and a concert by Waltham St Lawrence band on the Thursday.

For full details, log on to www.rustwychurch.org. Tickets can be bought by calling (0118) 9344792 or (0118) 9340642.

CHRISTMAS trees that have been decorated by Wokingham community groups will be displayed later this month.

Wokingham Methodist Church in Rose Street will have 40 seasonal spruces on show from Friday, December 9 to Sunday, December 11.

There will also be stalls, singers and a Live Nativity by StageFright on Saturday.

The festval is open from 10am-4.30pm over the weekend, except Sunday when it starts at noon. v For details, visit www. wokinghammethodist.org.uk.

v Earley JAC, a charity that helps young and disadvantaged people, will benefit from a special week-long Christmas Tree Festival taking place in Earley.

Trinity Church in Earley – next to Asda – will open its doors from Saturday, December 8 to Sunday, December 16 to showcase a range of

creatively decorated trees. The church is open each day from 10am to 5pm.

On Saturday, December 8, from 7.30pm, the church is hosting a Carribbean-style Christmas concert, and a second hand-book sale is held on Saturday, December 15. The week ends in a carol service on Sunday, December 16, from 5pm. v For details, log on to www.trinityearley.co.uk.

Take care!

Make the most of life with Philip Keohane

A thought for Christmas At Home Instead Senior Care, we are gearing up for a very busy Christmas and New Year.

Many of our clients do not have close family and friends who will be spending time with them over the Christmas period. Our staff will perhaps be the only outside contact these people have at this time.

We also expect many calls from families who have come together with older relatives for perhaps the first time in a good few months.

Noticeable deterioration in the physical or mental condition of their loved one will prompt them to get in touch with organisations such as Home Instead as they are concerned about their relative’s ability to continue coping safely without additional support.

Their needs will vary for a bit of companionship to stave off loneliness, a bit of help around the house with some chores right through to personal assistance with eating and bathing etc.

If you are meeting up with an elderly relative over the forthcoming few weeks, please take a little extra time to check that they are continuing to manage for themselves as well as in the past. There may be some objections to the offer of assistance on the grounds of being able to cope. Do be prepared to challenge this (albeit politely and considerately) if necessary.

We can all make a difference. Simply checking in on an older neighbour regularly, popping a card through their door or having a chat with an older person at the shops only takes a moment and can make a real difference to them.

You can also check with local groups to see if you can help out over Christmas or on Christmas Day (there may be lunches laid on that need volunteers, transport needed, etc.)

If we all do a little bit, we can touch a lot lives – Happy Christmas.

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

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December 2012 | www.xnmedia.co.uk | To advertise call 01932 888417

v Christmas preparations

Love Christmas, without the cost A DEBT charity is telling people that it is impossible to buy the perfect Christmas.

Christians Against Poverty (CAP), which has local centres in Reading Community Church, Kerith Community Church in Bracknell and Wokingham Christ Church sees people through the year who have reached a crisis point in their finances.

For this years' festive period, it has launched a tried-and-tested list of ways to avoid the kind of financial troubles that typically see a rush of clients around February.

“We love Christmas,” said Sue Winyard, Reading centre manager. “The problem is we are sold this line that the perfect Christmas is something we should be buying and that causes more stress than celebration.

“Now is the right time for families to talk to each other to create a sensible game plan to ensure that Christmas is happy for everyone – and so is the New Year.”

The following list of tips come from the experience of those within the charity, as well as CAP clients: 1. Agree on a game plan to stop all of you overspending: do a ‘secret Santa’? Agree on a set amount each? A ‘just for the kids’ rule?

A ‘from charity shops only’ rule?

2. If children have their heart set on something out of your price range, club together with relatives.

3. Short of a new Christmas outfit? Get together with mates for a swapping party and you’ll all go home with something new, without the cost.

4. If you’re doing the meal, ask guests to each contribute something: Drinks? Pudding?

Cheese? Cake? A turkey? If you’re spending time cooking a Christmas feast, you are already giving a lot.

5. Aim to only buy the food you will actually eat and decide what you will do with left-overs eg potato cakes from cooked potatoes, make stock from Turkey carcass, soup from uneaten vegetables, freeze un-used gravy for another time.

6. Home-made goodies always go down well – cupcakes, chocolate truffles, shortbread, jam – all are cheap to make and, wrapped with cellophane

Are yours the best mince pies?

Carols launched at Reading Minster

will be a Mince Pie Bake Off, with judges Alok Sharma MP and Cllr Chris Maskell helping judge.

It runs from noon to 3pm and it will also have stalls, a bouncy castle, face painting and a café. v To enter the Mince Pie Bake Off or for more details, log on to the church’s website, www. argylecommunitychurch.com.

A CHURCH and a pub are joining together to host a special Christmas challenge – and fayre – later this month.

Argyle Community Church in Reading and its local pub, The Rose and Thistle, will be hosting the fayre on Saturday, December 15.

Star attraction of the event

and ribbon, make great presents.

7. Your time and thoughtfulness are every bit as valuable as your money. Instead of presents, offer vouchers for gardening, washing the car, a few hours cleaning, ironing or making someone’s favourite cake or snack.

8. So many people live alone – a cheery visit from you is worth more than any present.

9. Spend time focusing on what you can enjoy at no cost and make Christmas really special: watching your kids in the school nativity; watching the lights get switched on; enjoying Christmas carols in church; dressing the tree; playing family games.

10. Never take out credit or be tempted by a Christmas loan – you don’t know what the New Year will bring.

Your income may change and it could affect your whole family’s security in 2013. No Christmas is worth that. v If you have problem with debt, log on to www.capuk.org for help and advice.

STEVE CURTIS

Springwater Church invites you to…

A CHARITY that helps people in Reading who have been homeless get back on their feet is holding a carol concert later this month.

Launchpad, which provides supported housing for single homeless people to help them progress onto independent living, will fill Reading’s Minster Church on Thursday, December 13 for the annual event.

The Reading Bach Choir and Englefield Primary School Recorder Ensemble will provide the musical accompaniment.

The event, which starts at 6pm, will also feature special guests including the BBC’s Matt Allwright, Lady Catherine Stevenson and John Miller, Deputy Lieutenant of Berkshire.

Tickets are available to book online at www. launchpadreading.org.uk or you can pay on the door.

Single tickets are £10, and family tickets (two adults, two children) are £25. Proceeds go towards Launchpad and their work with Reading’s vulnerable. v Launchpad focus p9

Get in the Christmas picture!

Have a Family Christmas Nativity Photograph taken

at Sonning Common Village Hall, Wood Lane Springwater Church Invite you to ‘Get in the Picture’ Saturday 15th December 2012 from 10am – 3pm

taken Have a DressFamily Christmas Nativity Photograph up as a Shepherd, or Mary, an Angel, or Wise Man and imagine yourself as a character at Sonning Common Village Hall, Wood Lane th in one Saturday 15 of the greatest stories ever told.

December 2012

10am – 3pm You can upload your photos from ‘Get in the Picture’ website

at no cost, print them off or email them to family and friends.

Dress up as a Shepherd, or Mary, an Angel, or Wise Man ‘Springwater’, Peppard Congregational Church and imagine yourself as a character in one of the greatest Blounts Court Road, Peppard Common, Henley on Thames stories ever told.

Tel: 0118 972 4519 Email:office@pepcon.plus.com

www.springwater.org.uk You can upload your photos from ‘Get in the Picture’

website at no cost, print them off or email them to family and friends.

‘Springwater’, Peppard Congregational Church

IF YOU ever wanted to play the Virgin Mary in the school nativity but always ended up as the third angel on the right, a chance is coming to put that right.

Sonning Common Village Hall is about to be turned into a nativity tableau and organisers are inviting you to Get In The Picture.

Guests to the event, which takes place on Saturday, December 15, will be able to dress up as a character from the Christmas story and then have their photo taken – all for free.

Pictures are then uploaded to a special website, www.

getinthepicture.org.uk, where they can be emailed to friends and family or downloaded to be printed off. And, like the photo shoot itself, it’s all free.

The event is being organised

by Springwater Church in Peppard Common and runs from 10am-3pm. v For more details, log on to www.springwater.org.uk or call the church on (0118) 972 4519. v Crowthorne residents can also take part on Friday, December 7 from 5pm, as part of the village’s Christmas festival. Photos will be taken at the Baptist Church on the high Street.

v There’s lots more Christmas events on our website, www.xnmedia.co.uk

Big-hearted bikers to play Santa BIKERS are making a list and checking it twice as they prepare to ride to Wokingham to play Father Christmas.

The Toy Run, which has run for more than 25 years, attracts thousands of bikers from all aspects of the biking fraternity.

Organised by the Reading Christian Bikers Association, the event sees the bikers ride together and bring gifts of toys to major children’s charities.

Often wearing fancy dress, the bikers take their toys from the Foster Wheeler Building off Shinfield Road, before being heading from Reading to Wokingham.

The gifts are then presented to Barnardo’s High Close School, who will distribute the toys to children in their care.

“Barnardo’s is a big enough organisation for us,” explains Sean Stillman, a founder of the Toy Run. “We know none of the toys will go to waste.”

TRADITION The first run was held in 1985 and was organised by the then Reading Branch of the Christian Motorcyclists Association (CMA).

Just 18 motorcyclists took part, delivering gifts to children in Battle Hospital.

Over the years it has become an annual event which now attracts an estimated 2,000 bikers from across the South.

Sean explains how it takes approximately 15 minutes for the whole convoy to pass any given spot of the way to Wokingham.

“It’s quite a moving experience,” he said. “There are literally several thousand people lining the streets. ““It’s a unique gathering of motorcyclists coming to take part in one of the most established Toy Runs in the country.”

As such, it takes quite a lot of organising and Ben Spiller, who is one of the event’s main organisers, will start work on the 2013 Toy Run days after this year’s.

“The logistics are quite complex,” explained Sean.

This year’s event takes place on Sunday, December 9. from 1pm. Gifts of new toys suitable for a child of any age, preferably unwrapped, are welcomed. v For more information about the Toy Run, or to get involved, visit www.readingtoyrun.org.

News

To advertise call 01932 888417 | www.xnmedia.co.uk | December 2012

Ted,

7

and you help Yeldall

A BUSINESSMAN based in Woodley is blessing others, with a bit of help from you and your favourite monthly magazine.

Ted Callaghan, who runs Callaghan Flooring and Carpets, has been regularly sending cheques to Hare Hatch-based rehabilitation centre Yeldall Manor.

At the beginning of the year, he pledged to donate 5% of the cost of any job that was booked through his advert in Xn – and he’s been delighted with the response.

Not only has Yeldall been helped, Ted says that his profile has been raised by supporting Xn through his advertising in our Trade Directory section.

He said: “Unbelievably yes, it has helped raise my profile.”

He added that because it has been so successful he’s planning to continue his tithing scheme into 2013.

Sue Hedger, Yeldall’s administration and supporter relations manager at the charity, said: “We really appreciate how Callaghan Carpets has chosen Yeldall Manor to benefit from a proportion of profits raised

Stephen Did (left) and Ted Callaghan from Callaghan Flooring and Carpets present a donation to Andy Partington from Yeldall Manor. The money was raised from jobs booked through advertising in Xn Picture: Lynda Bowyer Photography through advertising in Xn. “In these times of recession, it is encouraging that a company chooses to gives some of its valuable proceeds to a charitable venture such as ours.”

She also explained how the money is used by the charity.

“Every pound that we receive goes towards helping men

get free from life-dominating addictions to drugs or alcohol and, we hope, find a New Life in Christ,” she said.

“We are grateful to Ted and his customers for their support.”

Ted insisted that he will continue giving money to the charity for every booking he receives through Xn advertising:

v A new look for Xn in the New Year Your favourite magazine will be getting a new look to celebrate its first birthday.

Launched in January, Xn is going from strength to strength and is switching to an A4 size, will have more pages

and will be on glossy paper.

“We love being able to share Good News from across the Thames Valley,” said editor Phil Creighton. “From next issue, we’ll be able to do more of that and in a handier size.”

“That will be my charity,” he says. “It’s not a short term offer any more for me.”

In fact, it’s gone so well for the carpeter he said he would get in touch with other local businesses and encourage them to advetrise in Xn. He said: “I’ll let them know how well it’s worked for me,” and encourage them to take part in a similar scheme of donating a certain percentage of profits.

“I like it that everybody wins.” v If you want a new carpet for Christmas, Ted has some slots available for fitting, including weekends. For details, call Ted on (0118) 962 8527. v Trade Directory, page 21

v There’s more on our website!

EVERY month Xn brings you pages and pages of Good News from across the Thames Valley – but there’s more!

So much more that we can’t fit all the news into our pages.

We’ve spent November giving our website a fresh look and feel, and it’s updated several times a week with extra stories you won’t find in the print edition.

There are features on upcoming events, news from groups across the Thames Valley – and from further afield.

You can have your say by commenting on stories and our comprehensive What’s On guide is an interactive calendar.

You can also click on our Trade Directory and be taken straight to advertisers.

It’s brilliant –and it’s free! v Log on to xnmedia.co.uk

Xn needs your help … NOW!

Our first anniversary is coming up in January and each month we’re distributing 16,000 copies – not bad from a standing start 12 months ago! But we need your help, now!

Each issue costs £5,100 to produce – a start-up grant has been a big help as we work towards self-sustainability through advertising; it’s taking a little longer than expected, but with your help, we can get there by March 2013.

Can you help Xn in one or more of these ways?

Our vision is wider than the Thames Valley and bigger than the paper in your hands. Will you be a part of the success?

Advertise in Xn

Sponsor Xn or give a gift

Xn is free because we are funded by advertising: advertisers are reporting great results – and we have been inspired by their increasing support of our mission.

Every month, at least 16,000 copies are printed locally and distributed by volunteers.

Xn is committed to bringing you the latest news from across the Thames Valley.

We have a vision of offering more than just a monthly magazine: we want to help the community share its great stories.

To do this we need to invest in people and in equipment and to continue building strong community relations.

Advertising is booked through Hinton Media Services who are committed to helping Xn by offering a first class service.

They’re happy to answer any questions and offer advice. So why not get in touch today?

Call 01932 888417 and speak to Fiona or Jono.

‘Join me in this journey as we share our Good News with the community,’ says Xn founder and editor Phil Creighton You can make a gift to Xn Media online: A/c: 35879204 Sort code: 09-01-28

Thank you!

Why not help Xn and sponsor a monthly edition (and get free profile or advertising in that edition) or a gift toward getting Xn into the community? For more info or to chat with us please email Founder and Director Phil Creighton: editor@xnmedia.co.uk.

You can send gifts (payable to Xn Media) to: Xn, c/o Abbey Baptist Church, Abbey Square, Reading RG1 3BE. Thank you.

Be a Friend of Xn & get it delivered Adopt Xn as your community newspaper. By subscribing, you’ll never miss an issue. We’ll post you a copy each month hot off the press. Your support of £10 for six issues will help Xn report your community news Yes, I’d love to support Xn by taking out a six-month subscription. I enclose a payment by cheque, payable to Xn Media Ltd, for (please tick) £10 Other (please write amount, min £10) Name .......................................................................................................

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Please tick this box if you wish to decline this communication.

Send your completed form with a cheque payable to Xn Media to: Xn Subscriptions, c/o Abbey Baptist Church, Abbey Square, Reading RG1 3BE

8

News

December 2012 | www.xnmedia.co.uk | To advertise call 01932 888417

v Inn keeping YOUTH groups from Ascot Heath are working hard to put on their Christmas show for the year.

All Saints youth groups KoolSaints (up to year 6) and Ignite (year 7 and up) have been spending their Sunday evenings working on Jesus’ Christmas Party: the Musical so it’s ready in time for Saturday, December 22.

Everyone is invited to hear the Christmas story from an unusual view – the grouchy innkeeper.

The production, beginning at 6pm, builds on the success of last year’s Operation Emmanuel show.

Entry is free and takes place in King Edwards Hall in King Edwards Road, Ascot. v For more, email AllSaintsYouth Groups@hotmail.co.uk.

v Aladdin fun ALADDIN is on his way to the library for a festive show.

Woodley Library is hosting the pantomime on Saturday, December 8 from 4.30pm.

For £4, the panto includes crafts and refreshments. v To book a place for a child, call the library on (0118) 969 0304.

Live music treat for Sunday nights POPULAR coffee shop Starbucks will be hosting a new fortnightly event – and it’s launching with a bang.

Sunday Night Live, which already takes place across the UK, is coming to Reading with a special performance of festive music from singer Naomi Walker.

The regular event promises that it will always offer live entertainment with a twist of faith and organisers hope that it will be the perfect way to end the weekend.

Rana Kunby, assistant Pastor at All Nations Christian Centre is organising the event with help from the church’s lead pastor, Billy Fenning.

Johnny Kinch, founder of the project, explains on the website: “I started Sunday Night Live as a result of having a life-

changing experience.

“I felt there was a real need to reach out to those around me and wanted to do it in a way that was entertaining and enjoyable.”

The event will be held at Starbucks, on Coffee Corner in Reading’s town centre from Sunday, December 9 and will be held fortnightly for at least a year.

Rana said: “It’s not overtly Christian, but more songs that artists have sung. It’s a general forum for church members to bring their non-Christian friends to.”

The event, which starts at 7.30pm, will

have coffee, cake and a relaxed atmosphere for everyone to enjoy their time together.

It might surprise some that Starbucks is happy to host, but Rana said that the manager was more than happy for it to go ahead. v For more details, log on to www.facebook. com/SNLReading or follow them on Twitter @SNLReading STEVE CURTIS

Popping up in Lower Earley for 12 days of Christmas A SHOP will be appearing for 12 days only this Christmas.

Lower Earley Baptist Church have taken an empty shop on Maiden Lane to bring the Christmas story to the people.

From Thursday, December 13, the Church will take the shop and offer a warm place for people to drop-in, relax and talk.

There are a range of activities

planned including story telling, present wrapping, prayer, and a Carols and Curry Night.

The shop has been offered free by the owner of the complex.

Church members will be working in early December transforming the area into a ‘pop up’ church.

One member of the

congregation said: “This is an exciting opportunity to bring church out into the community, to meet passers-by who might never otherwise be met, and hopefully to introduce Jesus as more than just the baby at the centre of the Christmas story.”

The centre will be open at various times between Thursday, December 13 until

Monday, December 24, and there are plans to hold shorter worship services on the two Sundays.

The church are inviting anyone in the nearby area to come along and say hello. v For more details and for the latest events, email lebcminister@yahoo.co.uk or phone (0118) 935 3598.

Christian Community Action (CCA) Silver Street Furniture Outlet

Demonstrating God’s love by meeting practical needs and restoring self-worth

C

hristian Community Action’s (CCA) to leather sofas, pine beds to solid wood chests of Silver Street Furniture Outlet is a unique drawers. Items of specific interest at the moment part of CCA’s group of charity shops and include a travelling officer’s desk, an electric multisupport centres, which operate in the way bed and an electric rise and recline chair. Stock Reading area. changes very quickly so it’s always worth a browse, in CCA’s core activity is to distribute furniture to person, or via our website – www.ccafurnitureoutlet. people on limited means through our support org.uk – you never know what you might find. centres and to provide a listening ear and a friendly If you don’t need furniture yourself, please spread face to people in difficult circumstances. the word to your friends, family and neighbours, in All furniture donated is either used directly for any way you can – the more people who know, the these clients, or made available to the general public more funds that can be raised to support CCA. via the Furniture Outlet.

We are open 6 days a week, including opening Some comments from our customers: until 7pm on Thursday, and offer good quality “As a local Letting Agent we use CCA often and have furniture at reasonable prices. By providing a place always found that you are value for money and what to re-sell it, we save household furniture in good we buy is of good quality and clean. Your delivery guys condition from being thrown away or destroyed, as are always helpful and friendly and the staff in the well as raising much-needed funds for our work. shop are also very friendly and always willing to help.”

In summary, CCA’s purpose is: Paul Watkins, Manager, John Mortimer, Reading.

• To raise funds to enable CCA to provide essential “They (the CCA Furniture Outlet van crew) were furniture to those on limited incredibly hard working, extremely means pleasant and went to a great deal • To offer affordable good quality of trouble helping us re sofa. If all pre-used furniture to everyone removal / delivery people were CCA Silver Street Furniture Outlet like this, the world would be a • Increase the reuse of furniture and reduce items going to landfill can be found at 79 Silver Street, better place!”

Reading RG1 2SU. • To offer volunteering Mrs S, Sonning Common Our opening hours are Monday opportunities to those wishing “May I say how impressed I to Wednesday and Friday 10am- was with the team of 3 gentlemen to give something back to the community and to those seeking 4pm, Thursday 10am-7pm and who came... They were so friendly, Saturday 10am-1pm. a way back into the workplace polite and efficient...They convey Please visit our website, As our Silver Street Furniture such a good impression of CCA... www.ccafurnitureoutlet.org.uk, Outlet is not as well known as we On the basis of my experience, I will to see our latest and most exciting recommend CCA to everyone think it should be, why not pop in stock. and take a look around?

I know” Mrs T, Reading.

We can deliver for a nominal We have a wide variety of goods We look forward to ranging from antique display units charge. seeing you soon!

v Find us

News v Oh baby!

Sale helps roof THERE will be a baby and children’s sale this month.

Taking place in Langley Hall, Bracknell, it will sell nearly-new clothes, toys and equipment as well as refreshments.

It takes place on Saturday, December 8 from 2.30pm.

Entrance to the event will cost £1 per person and will raise funds for the Holy Trinity Church Roof fund.

v Don’t reject Aglow’s talk HELP is being offered to women so they can overcome rejection.

Aglow Reading will welcome Kirstie Dolphin, from St Matthew’s Southcote, where she will talk about her life and her faith and how it has helped her to move on from rejection.

Entry is free for first-time visitors or £3 on the door and it takes place at Southcote Mission, 280a Southcote Lane, on Monday, December 17. The talk starts at 7.30pm. v For details, log on to www. readingaglow.co.uk.

v In training for carol singing IT’S not just trains that will be coming in to Wokingham Station, as carol singers will be arriving at the platforms.

Churches Together in Wokingham (CTW) will sing carols and giving out chocolate coins as well as Christmas cards s on Monday, Decmeber 10.

They plan to stand out by wearing red.

If you would like to help contact administrator@ wokinghamchurches.org.uk.

All ages welcomed.

To advertise call 01932 888417 | www.xnmedia.co.uk | December 2012

9

Launchpad helps homeless with the struggles of Reading life A LOCAL charity is doing big things to help get homeless people off the streets.

Launchpad Reading, formerly Reading Single Homeless Project (RSHP) is working hard at bridging the gap between homelessness and having independent living arrangements.

Recent recruit Eleanor Buckley has been working for charities all her career. She explains that she has always wanted to be working at community level, saying her career has “zoomed in” over time.

She started at global reaching Christian Aid, before moving on to the UK focussed Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists.

She explained, “I have had my eyes opened to a completely different world, to the struggles of Reading.”

Launchpad started as a soup kitchen in the 1970s, but has developed to provide a place to live for some single homeless people in the Reading area.

It is now based out of offices in Merchants’ Place, right in the middle of Reading’s town centre.

“The heart of what we do is own, or rent, properties and rent them out again to clients,” says Eleanor. “Having a roof over your head isn’t everything, but it’s a launch pad.”

Clients to the Launchpad charity are homeless, disadvantaged or underprivileged. Each client has a support worker to help them with their problems, which can include substance abuse and mental health issues.

Eleanor is keen to explain that the programme intends to

Eleanor in the garden and (below) Launchpad’s Reading offices

v Get on the Launchpad Local volunteers are an essential part of Launchpad.

The charity says that volunteering work is rewarding, challenging and varied.

It has created a range of volunteering opportunities that are suitable for everyone. These include opportunities to assist with fundraising, and with the allotment and gardening.

Local volunteers with get people back on their feet again, no matter what their background.

Through its help, 13 of Launchpad’s clients are now studying at college.

The charity also runs an allotment-based healthy living project, which teaches clients how to grow their own

specialist skills are needed for counselling placements, 1:1 tutoring, various admin duties and the alcohol group.

Sometimes Launchpad also has the need for volunteers to be dedicated to a one-off project or event. v To find out more about Launchpad and its projects, call the charity on (0118) 950 7656 or visit www.launchpadreading vegetables and then cook them.

Now that winter is here, every local authority has a Severe

Weather Emergency Protocol in place and, as part of that, Launchpad provides camp beds and food for hostels.

The charity will also help with essentials such as providing a cooked breakfast and a food parcel, which should last a day. A nurse will also provide checkups for anyone who needs it.

The charity will welcome volunteers who want to get involved in the local community, and encourages any talent – see the panel on the left.

Launchpad was also the Reading John Lewis’s Charity of the Year in 2011. v You can find out more about Launchpad and its projects at www.launchpadreading.org.uk.

STEVE CURTIS

10

News

December 2012 | www.xnmedia.co.uk | To advertise call 01932 888417

v Bishop’s sadness over Synod vote

v Help needed

Sweet songs of success for choristers

THE Bishop of Reading has shared his disappointment on the ruling on women bishops last month.

The Church of England’s General Synod narrowly voted against the appointment of women bishops, and it will be another five years before a similar vote can be held.

The Rt Revd Andrew Proud, the Bishop of Reading (pictured), said: “To be honest I was shocked and saddened by the result.”

The vote needed two-thirds majorities in each of the Synod’s three houses.

It passed the House of Bishops and House of Clergy, but in the House of Laity the vote was 132 for and 74 against – six ‘yes’ votes short of a majority.

But the Bishop didn’t want the vote to distract from the Church’s work.

He said: “Those things don’t dominate us. Our mission is to reach out.”

Going forward, Bishop Andrew felt that the Church of England would “make sense of it all”, and “we’ll end up stronger for it.”

He also added that he felt the Church of England was “99.9 per cent of the way there” towards approving women bishops and that it should look at taking it back to Synod in four or five years.

In the meantime, he said, it should “continue supporting women’s ministry the way we know best.” v What do you think? Have your say at xnmedia.co.uk

The Revd Dan Tyndall (right) and Ian Westley (left) with their award-winning choirsters THE ROYAL School of Church Music have dished out awards to five choristers from Caversham.

The quintet were entered into exams that tested their vocal and musical preparation, as well as liturgical knowledge.

Youngsters Joy Blount and Isobel Hodgson were awarded a distinction at the Bronze level, while Gillian Cooke, Hannah Asbury and Edmund Westley were given a distinction at the Silver level.

The church’s rector, the Revd Dan Tyndall, said: “The musical heritage at St Peter’s keeps on getting better and better under the marvellous leadership of Ian Westley, our director of music.” v Children aged six or older and adults with previous singing experience are welcome to join the choir. For more details, contact choir master Ian Westley, via the church office on (0118) 996 8836 or by emailing office@ctmparish.org.uk.

Boxing Day prayers for Persecuted Church MEMBERS of local churches will be gathering on Boxing Day to pray for Christians from all over the world.

Gathering at St John’s and St Stephen’s Church in Newtown, east Reading, those gathered will be showing their support for the persecuted church.

Chris and Jeannie Cobbold, organisers of the day of prayer, said: “It is particular appropriate to pray for our brothers and sisters on Boxing Day. “December 26 is St Stephen’s Day – the day that through the centuries, Christians have remembered the first Christian martyr, Stephen, whose story is told in Acts Chapter 7.”

They encouraged others to join them, saying: “We invite any Christians who would like to pray

Park United Reformed Church and Community Centre Palmer Park Avenue, RG6 1DN

Six rooms/halls for your meeting suitable for small and large groups (1-140 people) Discounts available Contact Centre Manager, Julie, 0845 463 6426 centremanager@parkurc.org.uk Further details: www.parkurc.org.uk

for the persecuted church to join us for as long or as short a time as they like” The event takes place between 10am-4.30pm at the church, on Orts Road.

“We will pray together on the hour throughout the day — except 3pm — for the church in different parts of the world. There will be opportunities for personal reflection and prayer; and to write letters to brothers and sisters in Christ who are suffering for their faith.”

At 2.15pm they will show a film produced by Open Doors that tells the fictional story of the challenges faced by believers in many countries. v For details, email office@wycliffe-church.org.uk or call the church on (0118) 929 9911.

A CHARITY that helps people across the UK is seeking volunteers to help them support struggling families.

Home-Start is a national charity that supports parents and families who might be struggling with issues such as isolation, being a single parent or post-natal depression.

The Reading branch needs people who can help for a few hours a week.

Volunteers will receive full training and support to visit families once a week and help build their confidence.

Parenting experience is essential for volunteers.

The training course will run for 10 weeks on Tuesday mornings from 10am-1pm at the Maples Centre, Tilehurst from the New Year.

The charity also helps families on British Forces bases in Germany and Cyprus. v To find out more, call (0118) 942 9518 or log on to www. home-start-reading.org.uk.

v Stay warm A BOOKLET has been released by the Government advising people on how to keep warm and well over the chilly winter months.

The booklet, provided by the Department of Health, aims to help readers to maintain good health and take advantage of the financial help and benefits available.

It includes advice on staying healthy, heating your home effectively and a number of contacts to get touch with. v The booklet can be downloaded for free by logging on to the Department of Health’s website: http://goo.gl/OVOrz

Toddlers welcomed at Park Toddler groups are a great opportunity for under fives to socialise with others and a great opportunity for carers to swap top tips and get some time with other adults.

Park United Reformed Church in East Reading has recently opened a toddler group on Monday mornings which is open to all with toddlers: including parents, grandparents and carers.

Suzy Weston is co-ordinating the group and has been delighted at how quickly the group has been established.

She said: “We only started up seven weeks ago and we’ve seen over 20 families and have a regular core group who

are here most Mondays.

“The beauty of the group is that we have plenty of space for the children to move around and a wide range of toys.

“Each week we try to provide a different craft activity.

“With Christmas approaching we’re looking forward to some themed activities and a Christmas party.’”

The toddler group is open every Monday morning from 9.30am until 11.15am at Park United Reformed Church in Palmer Park Avenue, East Reading – just off the Wokingham Road.

For more details, log on to the church’s website, parkurc.org.uk

Do better together.

Collect BetterPoints and reward yourself, your community and the world around you. The Reading Pilot is now live and we need you‌

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We have projects with organisations such as:

Community causes and charities‌ Could your church, local community group or charity do with some exposure or donations? Create your cause page today!

www.rewardyourworld.com If you have any questions about Reward Your World, or you or your organisation would like to get involved, please email tom.girdler@rewardyourworld.com.

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December 2012 | www.xnmedia.co.uk | To advertise call 01932 888417

People v

A MAN who had a triple heart by-pass had the job finished off in July – but not by a surgeon.

Ray Guthrie, a retired teacher who worships at Greyfriars Church in Reading, had surgery early this year and had been told in a radiologist report that he had a misalignment of the sternum.

Ray went to the Touching Heaven Changing Earth conference at Rivermead Centre on July 27, and explained how guest speaker, Christen Forster, had said: “there is a person present who has recently had open heart surgery.

“You have a misalignment

v

A COUPLE of young people from a Reading church are jumping out of a plane to raise money for its new building.

Karolina Wruszczak and Phil Shepherd, from LifeSpring Church, Tilehurst will be doing a sponsored skydive next year in an attempt to raise enough money to finish off renovating The Pavillion building.

The building, on Reading’s Oxford Road, is a former cinema that was a snooker hall for the past few years.

The church has bought the building and is returning it to its former glory.

v

A QUIZ QUEEN from Caversham is once again setting some tricky posers – and it’s all in a good cause.

Lindsay Mullaney, who is a member of St James Catholic Church in Reading, has devised a fiendish quiz designed to stump all but the most inquistive minds.

It’s a task that she’s been setting for almost three decades and this year’s theme is James.

The reason is that the quiz is being sold to raise funds for the St James’ Restoration Fund.

The quiz concerns the many

of the chest and God wants to complete the work that the surgeon has done.”

Ray explained how he was encouraged to respond.

On his return to the hospital four days later he was told how there was no need for further surgery.

“What the devil cannot pollute he will dilute,” says Ray. “He bombards our minds, telling us that we are weak and useless. But we have to speak of God’s access and action in our lives if we are to be adverts for the Kingdom.”

Ray is reminded every time he zips up his jacket, about the alignment of the links in the zipper.

“Alignment before assignment,” he says.

Phil said: “This last year or so, we’ve seen an amazing show of commitment and passion towards getting The Pavilion.

“Such unity and togetherness in the church is amazing to see, but we do need money.”

And Karolina added: “The new building will help us grow as a community, the youth events that are held are an integral part of LifeSpring so to carry on growing and doing good we need your help.”

The pair will be jumping from 15,000ft and hope to raise £2,000.

The date for the skydive is yet to be confirmed. versions of the name James in different languages.

Copies of the quiz cost £2 and participants have until the end of January to complete it.

The quiz marks the end of a busy year for Lindsay who, with her husband John, have established the Scallop Shell Press to print their book, Reformation, Revolution And Rebirth: The Story of the Return of Catholicism to Reading and the Founding of St James’ Parish.

Copies of the quiz and the excellent book are available to buy from their website, www. scallopshellpress.co.uk.

News

Sweet carol singing fr For the sound of Christmas you can’t beat carols – and for well-sung carols you need a choir. STEVE CURTIS finds out more AFTER 24 years on hiatus, the Reading Minster Boys Choir is back and singing their hearts out for the community – and it’s busy preparing for the Christmas season.

The choir had disbanded in 1976 when its then director Walter Ewart Masser passed away. It was not until 2010 that it was resurrected by the town centre church’s current director of music, Peter West.

He started the choir up again because, he says, “the Minster is the main church in Reading, and it’s strange how such a big church didn’t have a choir”.

Work began on building the choir in 2009, before starting rehearsals in January 2010. The first services to feature the new choir were held in May 2010.

When he was a lad, Peter (pictured below) was a chorister – and the experience has stayed with him. Music is in his blood, he studied the subject for four years at Trinity College London, and he is an accomplished organist too.

Although working only part-time on the choir, it “might as well be full-time”, he laughed. ”It is very hard work, but it is really rewarding.”

Peter found it difficult to start recruiting, having had no contact from schools when he first started. It was only after phoning schools individually that he managed to start making in-roads.

As a teacher himself, Peter understands that “it’s just another thing to deal with” for teachers.

The choir scouts youngsters from the Reading area by visiting schools, selecting the most talented young voices.

The majority of recruitment for the choir takes place during June and July, but it is not unknown for new boys to be recruited outside these months.

While not every boy selected makes it past the three-month probation period, those that do then perform in front of hundreds of people, get broadcast over local radio and even get a little pocket money.

The Reading Minster Boys’ Choir helps lead worship at the Reading

by Peter West, the choral group reformed in 2010 after a 24-year a

The boys clearly enjoy being able to take part in the choir.

Member Simeon (12), said: “What motivates me is making new friends and a varied and interesting programme of singing and social experiences like singing with other choirs, on the radio, in different churches and cathedrals and residential trips, competitions and parties.”

Ten-year-old Ethan said: “I like singing in the choir because it challenges me, not just in my singing but in working hard at something I enjoy.

“There are lots of exciting socials, such as bowling and laserquest.”

The boys from the choir are aged seven until the age their voices break and are no longer able to sing to the right notes.

And the boys’ voices will be

v Join Minster

Rehearsals f Wednesdays fr time, with the arriving at an e have more pra Occasionall joined by loca tenor and bass Currently, th Choral Euchar two services o month at 5pm There is also mixed voices t on alternate W

News

To advertise call 01932 888417 | www.xnmedia.co.uk | December 2012

rom this choir

How Hewetts can help you

F

or nearly 120 years, people have been turning to Hewetts Solicitors when they have needed help and advice.

The Reading-based company aims to provide expert legal advice in specialist areas as well as providing value for money.

Efficient, friendly and helpful, Hewetts can help you whether you are an individual or representing a business.

Hewetts understands that it can be difficult to find a solicitor that you can trust – so it is proud that 80% of its business comes from existing clients and referrals.

Every client is offered a confidential service from a range of lawyers who have the experience, expertise and commitment to help with complex business transactions and simple legal issues.

Advice for individuals includes a will writing service, full probate services, help with arranging legal care for the elderly, and other family issues.

It can also help with boundary disputes, bankruptcy, road traffic offences and employment issues.

For charities and churches, Hewetts have experts who can help with charity law and church law, including employment matters and trustee obligations.

It can also help with acquisition and disposal of

land, compliance issues and religious discrimination issues. Hewetts has also acted in Anglican Ecclesiastical property law transactions and have assisted Parochial Church Councils where property needs to be vested in the Diocesan authority as custodian Trustee.

Businesses also benefit from Hewetts comprehensive range of services: it is experts in employment law, company law and directors’ service contracts, as well as helping business with specialist areas such as franchise agreements, copyright and trade marking, company and partnership disputes and commercial property.

Hewetts is a name you can trust and it is a member of the Association of Christian Law Firms.

It is also active in the local community, sponsors of various charities, including Christian Community Action and Empower, a free service to the community providing financial support for community projects including advice on counselling relationship breakdown, bereavement and other similar life changing issues.

If you want more information, or would like some help on a legal matter, you can contact Hewetts by logging on to www.hewetts.co.uk, calling the company on (0118) 957 5337 or visiting its offices at 55-57 London Street, Reading.

It offers free initial advice in most areas.

Minster Church of St Mary The Virgin in St Mary’s Butts, central Reading. Led absence. Its singing is greatly appreciated by many

the Reading er Boys’ Choir

for the choir take place on from 5-7pm during term newly recruited boys earlier time of 4.15pm to actice. ly the Boy Choristers are al men who sing the alto, s parts. he choir sing at the 11am rist on Sundays and for of Choral Evensong each m. o a Midweek Choir of that sings Choral Evensong Wednesdays at 6.15pm.

We are Members of the Association of Christian Law firms and all of our solicitors are full members of the Law Society.

We are qualified solicitors and experts in our field, and we are happy to offer professional and trustworthy advice. We understand that it can be difficult to find a solicitor that you trust, and we are proud of the fact that around 80% of our business comes to us from exis'ng clients and referrals. in great demand over the festive season.

Not only will they be singing at Xn’s Carols In The Mall event at Broad Street Mall on Christmas Eve, they will perform at a number of concerts and services across December.

These include Carols By Candlelight at South Street Arts Centre on Saturday, December 8, and special services on Christmas Eve and Day. Peter is keen to emphasise just how much work the boys put into the choir, saying that is a challenge but the boys “rise to that challenge” repeatedly.

Make sure you make the most of hearing the sweet singing of the choir this Christmas. v If you or your child are interested in joining the choir, contact music@ readingminster.org.uk

13

14

News focus

December 2012 | www.xnmedia.co.uk | To advertise call 01932 888417

Salvation Army is building for the future THE SALVATION Army are getting their kit bags together and marching off to a temporary home, as they press ahead with ambitious refurbishment plans.

The Reading Central Corps, based in Anstey Road, central Reading, is planning to revamp its 42-year-old building to make it fit for purpose in the 21st Century. Changes include reconfiguring the entrance and exits by swapping them over.

It is hoped that work will start on the refurbishment in January and take six months to complete. In that time, the Army will be setting up camp in All Saints’ Church, Downshire Square – and also using its temporary home to host a series of concerts.

The work is being overseen by the Reading Central’s leaders, Majors Iain and Alison Hudson. The pair joined the Corps four years ago, and hope to stay for at least another year yet.

Iain said he is looking forward to working with All Saints during the refurbishment work.

“Accommodating someone else’s denomination can be a liberating experience,” he said.

Allister Parker, a member of the Corps’ project development group, explained this is not the first time the Reading Central Salvation Army has had to move or renovate the building.

A presence in the town since 1881, the Army were previously based in The Butts, but moved in 1970 when their buildings were compulsory purchased to make way for the Butts Shopping Centre - now the Broad Street Mall. It was also based in a boathouse from the 1920s.

Major Iain Hudson and Allister Parker from the Reading Central Salvation Army look over exciting plans to redevelop its site The Army have spent the past 42 years on its current site, and Iain explained Allister has been there “most of those years”.

The bulk of the work will not be visible from the road, but it will affect the activities of the Corps, which is active in the community every day of the year.

Apart from Sunday services, the Salvation Army has 12 activities that take place over the week, as well as welcoming 60 groups and toddler meetings.

“Our community work from here has developed over the years,” said Iain.

Some of the events will be held in Walford Hall, along Carey Street in central Reading. Others will be held at Blessed Hugh Faringdon and Emmer Green schools.

The development and restructuring of

the building is “predominantly a serious look at trying to be strategic for the future,” says Iain.

Iain and Allister explain that this is not a recent idea, and that the Salvation Army has been considering it for a decade.

However, the building has “deteriorated to the point that it needs to be made fit for purpose,” says the Major.

The current building has flat, leaking roofs, impractical internal guttering and a cracked glass roof, with rusty cables.

The developments will provide the Army with “what we want for the next 20 to 30 years”, he said.

“We’ll update a lot of it,” Allister added.

In keeping with the update, the heating will be zoned to cut running costs.

A shower block will be added, as

in Iain’s experience they can prove valuable when working with the homeless, disabled, or people who take part in activities such as street pastoring and football.

“Maybe, just occasionally, we do have to offer them more than just soup,” he said.

While this is the first time such a big project has taken place for many of the congregation at Salvation Army, Iain has worked in previous churches which have had redevelopments take place – one of which lasted 18 months.

“I’m very optimistic,” he explained, “and we’re all relieved that planning permission came through.”

After the renovation, the church will look at expanding their community activities with events such as lunch for the homeless and week-long nursery services.

Key to Major Hudson’s thoughts is that they are “not duplicating what’s currently out there”, and he explained how they are mapping things together with other local churches to ensure they do not offer the same services on the same days.

Iain said: “When we come back here we’ll be in a stronger position to move forward.”

And if Majors Iain and Alison stay until 2015, they will be the longest serving leaders of the Reading Central Corps in its history. v For more information about the Salvation Army, and the building plans, log on to www.readingcentral.org.uk.

STEVE CURTIS

Join Xn, the Reading Minster Boys’ Choir and the Salvation Army band for Carols In The Mall, in Broad Street Mall on Christmas Eve from 4.30pm!

Str8ts 3

SUDOKU

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

Medium

6

9

1 5

7

8

9 5

6 6 4

9 1

3 2

5

4

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

3 5 2 1 Glance at the solution to see how ‘straights’ 2 1 3 are formed.

© 2011 Syndicated Puzzles, Inc.

3

Answers on page 23

6 8 2 5 3 2 2 1 1 5 4

Steve Vaughan-Turner www.drawingfromexperience.blogspot.com

Very Hard

9 3 5

2 4 5 9 2 3 9 1 8 7 9

© 2011 Syndicated Puzzles, Inc.

Puzzles STR8TS

To complete Sudoku, fill the board by entering numbers 1 to 9 such that each row, column and 3x3 box contains every number uniquely.

For many strategies, hints and tips, visit www.sudokuwiki.org for Sudoku and www.str8ts.com for Str8ts.

If you like Str8ts and other puzzles, check out our books, iPhone/iPad Apps and much more on our store.

‘I’d love to come to your candlelight service. Perhaps after Christmas when I’m not so busy.’

News

To advertise call 01932 888417 | www.xnmedia.co.uk | December 2012

15

Back for its 56th year

The Aldermaston Nativity is returning – as is its longserving director. STEVE CURTIS finds out more

A NATIVITY that will return for the 56th consecutive year this month brings with it a director who returns for her 56th year, too.

The Aldermaston Nativity will once again be performed in the 12th Century Church of St Mary the Virgin, Aldermaston – and Pat Eastop MBE is once again at the helm.

Pat, who was the head of Art and Design at Theale Green school, explains that even after 56 years, there are no struggles for her to continue to reinvent the Nativity.

“It’s a creative thing for me,” she says. “I try and give a fresh look at the text every year, and of course the cast changes every year too.”

The Nativity recruited a new Mary for the 2011 performance, and Pat explains how Zoe Wilgar brings a “lovely, youthful energy” to the role.

Essentially, she says, the play is “an adult play, played by adults” but does not dismiss the idea of children taking part.

There have been a few boys, from Aldermaston Primary School and Burghfield Willink School who have grown up with the play.

Yet it is not just Pat who has had a role to play with the Nativity over the years. She lavishes praise on the community for their continued support and sacrifices for the production, and explains that there are also a few long-serving cast members.

For example, former Theale Green colleague and current teacher Kim Clark has been a priest in the production for 20 years.

Elsewhere, Lesley Woodley has been in the play nearly 50 years, and followed her father’s footsteps as a shepherd.

Yet with each year comes a new casting opportunity, and Pat headhunts new actors in a very unusual location … the village’s produce show which is held each September.

“If I’m looking for new people for the play, I look at people enjoying the produce show to see if

Find that perfect gift

T Pat Eastop (centre, seated) with cast members from last year’s Aldermaston Nativity there is anyone who could play a part”, she says, before explaining that if she sees someone she likes, she’ll approach them.

“They’re usually taken aback,” she laughs.

Planning for the production starts in July, with rehearsals starting in October.

The event is free, which means that all people involved – from stage manager, to the lighting people to the actors – are working voluntarily.

“It’s quite something. The play is on five nights, and they have to start early, to get into complicated medieval costumes, make up, and the like.”

The Aldermaston Nativity lasts 90 minutes and is based on The York Nativity Plays, which date back to the 14th Century. The enterprise is quite an undertaking for the cast and crew.

“I do admire the commitment of the people who take part in the play,” Pat adds.

There is a collection at the play, in aid of renovating the 12th Century church. v The play takes place from December 6-9, with weekday show starting at 8pm and weekends at 7pm. v Tickets for the play are free, subject to availability. Send a self addressed envelope to: R Fowler, 40a The Street, Aldermaston, RG7 4LW or email: aldermastonnativity@hotmail. co.uk.

Pictured left: The Wise Men and the Angel Gabriel

Don’t be alone this Christmas Day v CHARITIES, churches and some generosity are coming together this month to provide a memorable Christmas lunch.

Faith in the Community, The Link Visiting Scheme, Churches Together in Wokingham and the General Manager of the Cantley Lodge hotel will once again unite to offer company and food to those who would otherwise be alone on Christmas Day. The lunch is intended for

individuals, couples or families and everyone is welcome.

The event was held for the first time last Christmas and attracted more than 70 people.

Voluntary, CRB-checked drivers who can help transport elderly people to and from the event are urgently needed. v For details, to book a place or to volunteer, contact Sharon Elliott from Faith in the Community on 07843 091950 or sharon.elliot@mac.com.

v THE SALVATION Army in Reading is planning to host a festive lunch on Christmas Day for the old and vulnerable of the local community.

Reading Central Salvation Army in Anstey Road will have a morning service at 11am, followed by the lunch at 12.30pm.

To help with catering booking for the lunch is required.

For details, call (0118) 958 3019.

he Christian Gift Company, based in Mortimer near Reading, was started last October in response to a desire to see the Word of God displayed in people’s homes in ways that are ‘beautiful, practical and contemporary’.

“The Word of God shouldn’t only be seen and considered in quiet times of reflection and study, and certainly not just in church!” says owner Marianne Needham-Bennett (pictured).

“I wanted to find ways to make it visually vibrant, relevant and noticeable – whether that be through a piece of stunning artwork or on something practical such as a jug”.

Not having any artistic talents herself but knowing that God wanted her to be more creative, she set about visiting trade fairs, Christian and secular, up and down the country. There she talked to individual designers who were happy to produce items on a small scale, with which she could test the market, and with commercial companies that had products that could be considered ‘relevant’, as well as with Christian wholesalers.

Gradually she pulled together the range of products that can now be found on the website www.thechristiangiftcompany.co.uk.

Each product sold by The Christian Gift Company (TCGC) has been carefully chosen for its quality, design, usefulness and appeal and can be selected according to ‘Occasion’ including ordination, wedding, Christening etc, or Product Section.

Currently there are five sections: Jewellery, predominantly crosses with some bracelets, earrings and cufflinks; Stationery, including journals, cards, invitations, notelets, bookmarks and gift bags; Home features cushions, candles, table and glassware, plaques and peg holders, garlands and ceramic decorations. In the Art for the Heart includes there are cards, prints and posters by well known Christian artists including Charlie Mackesy (The Prodigal), Matt Hoiles (Reach Out) and Howard Banks (The Lamb) ). There is also a Prayer and Devotional range which includes wooden crosses, devotional books and CDs. Prices range from 75p to around £80, with by far the majority being under £20, so there is something for everyone. There are some things which can also be bought in large quantities at discounted prices for conferences or events.

Everything the company sells has a Christian message or theme to it.

Sometimes this is very subtle with just a heart or the word ‘Love’, ‘Peace’ or ‘Trust’ on it, or inspirational sayings such as ‘Live well, laugh often, love much’ – sentiments that most people can relate to. And then there are other products which really do declare the faith of their ‘owner’.

These products include the ‘Word on the Wall’ range of vinyl verses whereby you can literally put ‘The Word’ on your walls, and a beautiful glass jug and carafe both of which have the words, ‘Come! Come and drink freely from the Water of Life’ on them. These are real conversation pieces which get people talking about Christ and Christianity. Other gifts include ceramic hearts and crosses made especially as Christening, Dedication, First Communion and New Baby gifts.

The Christian Gift Company will be at the Bracknell Christmas market on December 8 and 9 in Charles Square and there is still time to buy your gifts online.

Of the fairs TCGC attended during the summer, Marianne recalls “Visitors seemed to love everything that I sold, enthusiastically showing their friends and lamenting how difficult it was to buy anything like this today”.

Marianne is also happy to bring The Christian Gift Company to your location.

If you are organising a large event and would like to invite TCGC to attend, or if you head up a church and would like to get TCGC along one week to sell their products, please contact Marianne at info@thechristiangiftcompany.co.uk.

TCGC wants to act as a vehicle for Christian ‘designer makers’ to showcase and sell their products. If you are a designer maker who shares a passion for bringing the Word into people’s lives and homes with their products, or would be happy to work with TCGC to create something which does, Marianne would be delighted to hear from you.

16

Family circle

December 2012 | www.xnmedia.co.uk | To advertise call 01932 888417

v Family Circle KEEP IN TOUCH WITH EACH OTHER | TO PLACE A NOTICE EMAIL ADVERTISING@XNMEDIA.CO.UK v Induction

Jim’s warm welcome A CHURCH in Bracknell welcomed a new pastor with open arms and warm hearts last month.

Jim Snowden has been a constant at Community Baptist Church since 1979, and has now been inducted as its pastor.

It has been a year since the church asked Jim to formally become its pastor, and the induction last month was a formal celebration.

His wife, Sandy, said: “Both of us are trusting the Lord to help us do what needs to be done here.”

Chairman of Bracknell Forest Christian Network Michael Bentley sent a message of encouragement to the fellowship, which meets in , Birch Hill Community Centre, Leppington.

He said: “I am very glad to

v Induction

Chris and Mags join Springwater Chris and Mags Lewis are now leading Springwater Congregational Church in Rotherfield Peppard. They were prayed for at their induction service (below)

Jim Snowden at his induction service learn that Jim has been called to be your pastor and pray that you will experience much blessing from the Lord under his leadership.

“May the Lord richly bless you all.”

The service included a history of the church, music, prayer and Bible readings. v For more on the church, log on to www.cbcb.co.uk

v Installation

Father Paul moves in

path has intersected with yours, and I hope that my time among you will be used by the Lord to bless you and give you strength for the journey ahead.”

On his departure, Fr Robert said: “I should like to express my deep and sincere gratitude for all your wonderful help and assistance in so many areas of our parish life over the last couple of years.

“I know you will offer [Fr Paul] v Licensing your love and support as he settles into his ministry.”

JENNY FOAKES. On Saturday, St Michael’s meets at Sonning November 4 Jenny Foakes from St Common for weekly Mass on Michael’s, Tilehurst, was licensed Sundays at 9am. as a LLM at Christchurch, Oxford. v www.saintmichael Remembrance Sunday was Jenny’s Reading HoC 56x74mm 31/10/2012 15:00 Page 1 sonningcommon.org.uk first service.

A CHURCH in Sonning Common has a welcomed its new Father.

St Michael’s has installed Fr Paul Rowan, following Fr Robert Davaney’s move to a different church within the Diocese.

Fr Paul took his first mass on Sunday, November 18 and said: “It is a great privilege and blessing for me that my life’s

A VIBRANT induction service welcomed a new church leader to Peppard Common last month, after four years without one.

Springwater Congregational Church inducted their new minister, the Revd Chris Lewis, and his wife Mags into the pastorate of the Peppard Common fellowship on Saturday November 10.

The church had been without a church leader for four years following the retirement of the Revd Phil Cheale.

During the service, Chris said: “As we enter this new season in the life and ministry of the church here at Springwater our desire is for God the Father to move among us powerfully, creatively, and compassionately, and to proclaim Jesus as truth.

“We are expecting great outpourings of the Holy Spirit and praying for the church to grow numerically and spiritually as we participate in the

advancement of the Kingdom of God here in our locality and beyond.”

Barry Kirk, who has acted as interim pastor and moderator, led the induction service.

Chris thanked Barry for his care, commitment and guidance of the church over the four years.

The ceremony was a blend of traditional and contemporary worship. Two of the core leaders of the church, Sue Scrace

and Andy Shakeshaft led the congregation in prayers.

It also included the official act of induction where questions of intent and calling were asked of the Lewises, concluding with the congregation standing in prayer to support the couple. v Springwater Peppard Congegational Church, Blounts Court Road, Peppard Common, meets on Sundays at 10.30am. v www.springwater.org.uk.

Can you help couples build healthy relationships?

grow with us Volunteer needed to lead our Reading centre to help us grow our marriage preparation and relationship counselling services Contact: sue@marriagecare.org.uk www.marriagecare.org.uk/hoc

Relationship problems and breakdown have always been part of the fabric of society.

Yet they take an immense and painful toll – physically, emotionally and financially. Far too often, couples face the stark realisation that love sometimes isn’t enough to pull them through when difficulties arise. As with any skill, they need instead to learn how to simply be together.

Marriage Care exists to answer this need - by helping build and sustain healthy couple relationships, and therefore helping society as a whole. With a Christian ethos and a Catholic heritage, Marriage Care has been an established relationship support

organisation since 1946.

Today, it is the second largest such UK provider, supporting over 10,000 people a year from 50 centres throughout England and Wales, including Reading.

Working through 700 volunteers, it provides relationship education and marriage preparation classes, as well as one-to-one counselling. Reading centre has a team of over a dozen dedicated volunteers, and is recognised as one of Marriage Care’s more successful centres.

The new Reading Centre Leader is not required to be either a counsellor or a Catholic. He or she does however need to have a commitment to the Marriage Care aims, and ideally have some experience

in management, media, commerce or the professions.

As well as acting as the key liaison point with the National Centre office, he or she will be expected to sustain and expand the services in the Reading area.

Relationships are threatened in a multitude of ways – a new baby, redundancy, financial worries – even changes in attitude imposed by the disposable nature of life today.

Under the Centre Leader, Marriage Care helps people look out for these danger signs and – by emphasising the importance of openness and communication – equips them to deal with them more effectively.

News

To advertise call 01932 888417 | www.xnmedia.co.uk | December 2012

LZ7 rock the joint

v REinspired, inspiring faith in schools

v Make a date for Trinity Band A CONCERT next year will feature musical highlights from this year.

Trinity Band, based in Earley, will showcase musical highlights from their 2012 programmes at its first 2013 concert.

It takes place on Saturday, February 9 from 7.30pm at Trinity Church in Lower Earley.

It will raise funds for Brass for Africa which works with disadvantaged children of Kampala, Uganda, giving them the opportunity to learn music.

The band is also preparing for a busy December. Its next concert takes place on December 8 at Bearwood College from 7.30pm, and it will play carols in Reading and Spencers Wood in the run-up to the big day. v For more information on the band, and its concerts, or to book tickets, log on to www. trinityband.co.uk

A VIBRANT high-energy band spent a week visiting five schools and speaking to thousands of children last month – and their week was rounded off with a jaw-dropping concert.

St Laurence Church in Reading’s town centre was rocking on Friday, November 16, as hundreds of secondary school children piled into the church to enjoy the gig which was given by Manchester-based band LZ7.

Between 650-700 children turned up for the concert, which was organised and supported by churches from across Reading.

Chris West, one of the organisers and

youth work director at St Laurence’s, was delighted with how the evening went.

He said: The hall was jammed end the beats were rocking. The Vicar was scared the floor might collapse.”

It wasn’t just LZ7 who took to the stage – beat-boxer MC Hobbit and local Readingbased musicians Lemar and Duval WallaceClarke also performed.

“Having seen thousands of people over a week, [for LZ7] to bring hundreds to a concert was incredible,” Chris said.

The event, which had a Christian message, saw more than 20 young people

v Poverty challenge DISCOVER how the fight against poverty in the 21st century can affect you by attending a free lecture next month.

On Wednesday, January 16, the Director of Christian Aid will be giving a talk about what Christianity has to say about poverty today.

Loretta Minghella will draw on her personal experiences for the talk, which will be held at Henley Business School, Whiteknights campus.

She will also discuss how the fight against poverty might affect our lives.

Admission for the lecture is free, but places are limited. It starts at 7pm. v To book tickets, email events@reading.ac.uk or call (0118) 378 4313.

Sorted_Scottish Christian Broadcast

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A CONFERENCE is coming to Woodley next year to encourage faith in schools.

REinspired – which is based in Earley – will host the conference which will share some stories of the positive impact that faith has in schools.

Special guests include the Revd Steve Chalke MBE from the Oasis Trust.

The day aims to equip individuals, churches and schools in working together to improve schools and education.

Entitled Inspiring Faith in Schools, the day will include workshops, training sessions and seminars.

Workshop speakers include Mike Simmonds from Go Ministries, Catherine Clayton from Oxfordshire Prayer Spaces in Schools and John Foley of Together in Mission.

The event will be held at Waingels College, Woodley on Saturday, March 9 from 10am3.30pm.

Book before December 15, and tickets cost £17.50, including lunch. The price afterwards is £20. v For more details of the day and the opportunity to purchase tickets, log on to www.inspiringfaith.org.uk or call (0118) 966 3929.

17

For MEN…For LIFE.

RIBE SUBSC Y TODA

THOUSANDS OF READERS

IN 16 COUNTRIES

ONE PASSION

sign response cards, and as a result a new Youth Alpha course has been set up to help them to ask questions about life, the universe and everything.

The course started on Friday, November 23 and will run until February 15, and is meeting in Starbucks on the corner of the Buttermarket and King’s Road in central Reading. v For details about the Youth Alpha course email westy@saintlaurencereading.co.uk. v For more on LZ7, log on www.lz7.co.uk.

STEVE CURTIS Picture: LYNDA BOWYER

Inspiring Faith in Schools 10-3.30 Sat 9 March 2013 Waingels College, Woodley Practical Seminars: Leadership Well-being Spirituality R.E.

Inspiring keynote sessions with Steve Chalke MBE

A day conference to inspire, equip & connect Christians in schools across Berkshire & beyond. £20 including lunch. (£17.50 if booked before 15 December) Find out more at inspiringfaith.org.uk or call us on 0118 9663929  

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18

Letters/sport

December 2012 | www.xnmedia.co.uk | To advertise call 01932 888417

Your say What do you think about stories in Xn? Join the debate online, or send your thoughts to editor@xnmedia.co.uk

We love hearing from you – be it letters, emails, comments or tweets.

Here are a selection from the past month v The name’s Bond … James Bond Martin Ceaser reviewed the new James Bond film Skyfall last month – and he didn’t like it! Here’s what you thought: v Having now seen it, I think it’s probably the best Bond film since The World Is Not Enough (though that’s not too difficult) and easily Craig’s best.

Good to see the humour return in places, and of course the return of two established characters.

Though I did think it dragged a bit between Bond meeting Silva (who has to be the most irritating Bond villain ever) up to Silva’s escape, but then picked up its pace again.

And the “whisky glass” scene was in my mind too brutal for a 12A - it’s the sort of thing I could see sparking “copycat” incidents.

Overall though, it is a film I could happily watch again (which is more than I could say for the previous two outings).

Whether I’d watch it as many times as I’ve seen the Moore films though, I couldn’t say.

Richard Standing v I thought Skyfall was great fun. Some of the cinematography was terrific.

The section in Scotland where they fixed up the house was a bit like watching the A-Team... but the best Bonds have always had their fair share of laughs and there were plenty here, whereas the last two films were too dour and serious.

This was the best for a long time.

Nick Hudson v Absolutely the best but mainly due to the wonderful performance by the best M ever Dame Judi Dench.

Emma Major v I thought it was clearly the best Bond movie, great script and intriging sub plots.

Ray Coates v I really enjoyed it, great film and better than Casino Royale I felt, which may well be great praise from someone who isn’t really into the Bond films.

Jackie Curtis

v When websites go bad XN’s Facebook page is a place where we offer an insight into what goes on behind the scenes as Phil and Steve produces stories for Xn, both for the print edition and for the website.

One such story caused a momentary crisis as, when it was uploaded, it caused the Xn website to disappear for a few minutes.

Steve posted this on the Xn page on November 15: Slight panic in the office as Editor Phil breaks the website for a few minutes. All is OK now, phew!

Here’s what you had to say: v Just turn it off and turn it back on again.

Vicky Wong v Make him wear boxing gloves. It’s hard to break a website wearing boxing gloves. Straightjackets work, too.

Peter Bowyer

v Join the conversation It’s easy to have your say. Log on to any story on the Xn website and you can add your comments at the end of the article.

We use Disqus, which can be linked with your Facebook profile and is free!

Alternatively, Tweet us @xnmedia You can send us emails to editor@xnmedia. co.uk and letters can be sent to: Letters to the editor, Xn, c/o Abbey Baptist Church, Reading RG1 3BE.

The Royals’ Prince At Reading FC with Steve Prince

Keeping a sense of perspective

T

he game of football is forever throwing up new headlines. Recently it seems as if many of these have been controversial and few have been about the beautiful game itself. Reading’s own Jason Roberts has been among the headline makers as he shared his views in response to attempts to help stamp racism out of the game.

Jason conducted a terrific interview with Fabrice Muamba (pictured) for Radio 5. As well as talking about his v Police Commissioner Elections journey into football, Fabrice was asked The recent Police Commissioner Elections saw

by Jason to describe his memories Xn give space to all six of the candidates, to help of what was literally a heart stopping you decide how to vote. moment during the FA Cup tie between This delighted one reader: his team, Bolton Wanderers and v Thanks for the information printed on page 16 Tottenham Hotspur last season. of the November edition regarding the candidates They went on to talk about the for the Police and Crime Commissioners. impact of not being able to play the I live in the Southcote area of Reading and it game again and how Fabrice is dealing is the ONLY information that we have received with the loss of his biggest ambitions and dreams. regarding the prospective candidates – with only Then football provided one of its most powerful stories when Fabrice’s 8 days to go. faith and confidence in God was described and Jason asked him questions Janet about how he drew strength from the Psalms and his church community.

Stories such as Fabrice Muamba’s need to be heard because they help us all get an important sense of perspective and we are openly challenged to v Delivery day think about the fragility of life and the reality of death. Fabrice clearly has a On November 9, we were delivering copies of hope for the future because of his faith in God and his trust in Jesus.

Xn to Upper Bucklebury, and Steve posted the following message: We’re off out delivering in PERSPECTIVE Upper Bucklebury today. Here’s Xn’s challenge of Although the Royals have been finding life tough back in the Premier the day: say Upper Bucklebury three times fast!

League, we have also played our part in what has been described as We couldn’t. arguably the ‘best League Cup game ever.’

And readers were on hand to remind us of this: Reading were 4-0 up against the mighty Arsenal in what is now known v Make sure the Middletons get their copy. as the Capital One Cup. With a final score of 7-5 to the Arsenal, many fans Peter Bowyer of the latter who left just before half-time must have been choking around

v The Xn Onesie

the time they were driving over the Chiswick flyover.

I have to say that although he probably wasn’t looking forward to a deluge of questions from the media after the game, manager Brian McDermott so often supplies a rich sense of perspective with so many of his answers. One interviewer described the game as a disaster, to which Brian commented that there are many events in life that truly are disasters and that a game of football isn’t one of them - another example of keeping things in perspective.

Well done Brian.

Just before the game against Norwich City, the Royals Supporters Club Trust (STAR) organised a short memorial to mark Remembrance (see page 2). Sir John Madejski laid a wreath and the vicar of the parish in which the Madejski Stadium sits; the Revd Vernon Orr led a simple service for those who gathered before the game. There were supporters from both sides, demonstrating that football can unite those on opposite sides. As respect was shown to those who laid down their lives (including men who had played for Reading FC) for our freedom, another example of the v Tweets importance of perspective was visible. v John Tuck @John_Tuck Men’s Prayer Last The Royals have won our first Premier League game of the season.

Breakfast. St. Mary’s Church Hall, Winnersh. Fridays In what was a real game of two halves, and with some help from incredible 7am support from the fans, we beat Everton 2-1. v Launchpad Reading @Launchpad_RDG ‘Alfie’ Le Fondre scored a brace and calmly tucked away a penalty under Thanks to Xn media for this great plug of our Carols incredible pressure. Hopefully we can benefit from the confidence this win

by Candlelight event online. will surely help provide.

And finally for this month, what one reader Come on URZ!! thought about last month’s issue: Steve Prince is Reading FC Chaplain AND v @yesshereallydid LOVE that cover photo :) THE Pastor of Brookside Church

We’re not always serious in the office. On November 6, Steve tried to convince Phil to update his wardrobe (see picture on left): Little joke floating around the workplace today. Now the winter’s drawing in and the temperatures are dropping, Steve put forth the idea of an Xn Onesie. A quick MS Paint job later and this is the result.

What are your thoughts? Would you wear one?

(PS. Editor Phil is totally against this.) v I think Phil would look great in one… next preaching engagement?

Martyn Strong

Sport

To advertise call 01932 888417 | www.xnmedia.co.uk | December 2012

19

v Thames Valley Churches Football League For the latest on the league, log on to tvcfl.footify.com

Tilehurst Albion snapping at leaders’ heels

B

BETHEL United are still at the top of the Thames Valley Churches Football League – but their lead has been cut to just three points and second placed Brookside Saint Laurence have a game in hand, meaning there’s everything to play for.

Snapping at their tails are Tilehurst Albion and West Reading, who have two games in hand on Bethel.

It’s been another busy month in the League, with Philmar cup games taking place just after this issue had gone to press.

There are two more rounds of fixtures this side of Christmas, when there will be a seasonal break until January 12.

Will there be a change at top between now and the New Year?

If you’re free on a Saturday morning, why not pop down to a game near you and support your local team? Kick-off is at 10.30am.

PHILMAR CUP TABLE Tables are from two matches played and doesn’t take in to account matches played on Saturday, November 24. These were played after Xn went to press. The results can be seen at tvcfl.footify.com GROUP 1 P W D L F A Pts 1

St. Pauls 2 1 1 0 7 2 4

2

Tilehurst Albion 2 1 1 0 7 2 4

3

Reading Saints 2 1 0 1 2 6 3

4

West Reading Reserves 2 0 0 2 1 7 0

Group 2 P W D L F A Pts

South Ealing and Brentford overcome Finchampstead Baptist Church.

Carey Corinthians’ cup run continued with a tight 4-3 win over Reading Community Church, while St Andrews drew 4-4 with Norreys.

Wycliffe Wanderers drew against Bethel United and Kerith Community Church won 2-1 against West Reading.

while West Reading beat Finchampstead Baptist Church 4-1. Jamie Carstairs scored a hat trick, while Finchampstead’s reply was an own goal from the West Reading side.

Tilehurst Albion had an amazing game with two hat tricks from Steve Hannah and Danny Lawrence and another three goals from Lewis Wigginton, James Anderson and Chris Mills to beat Reading Saints 9-0.

v November 3 There was just one game on November 3 – a league match between Brookside Saint Laurence against Kerith.

The Bracknell-based Kerith team were on form, finding the net four times including a hat trick from Ben Findlay, but Brookside managed to net five in reply, giving their strong start to the season a boost and leave them sniffing at Bethel’s place at the top of the league.

v November 17 Tilehurst Albion repeated the amazing 9-0 scoreline as they press home their advantage against West Reading Reserves.

This time, Steve Hannah netted four times, with a brace from Josh Baines.

Wycliffe Wanderers game against Kerith Community Church was a high-scoring thriller, with Neil Healy found the net four times as Wycliffe beat the Bracknell team 6-4 and leapfrog them in the table.

At the top, both Bethel United and Brookside Saint Laurence won their games – Bethel were away to Finchampstead and won 4-0, while Brookside, also away, beat Greyfriars 6-1.

Reading Saints beat Norreys 4-0, which sees Norreys the only side without a win in the contest so far. v Get the latest reports and league tables from tvcfl.footify.com

1

Wycliffe Wanderers 2 1 1 0 5 1 4

2

Bethel United 2 1 1 0 3 2 4

3

South Ealing 2 1 0 1 6 3 3

4

Finchampstead 2 0 0 2 1 9 0

Group 3 P W D L F A Pts 1 Kerith Community Church 2 2 0 0 19 4 6 2

West Reading CFC 2 1 0 1 8 4 3

3

St Andrews 2 0 1 1 6 11 1

4

Norreys 2 0 1 1 7 21 1

Group 4 P W D L F A Pts

v Prayer meeting Everyone is invited to a prayer meeting for the Thames Valley Churches Football League which takes place later this month.

It will be held at Finchampstead Baptist Church on Tuesday, December 11 from 8pm. The church is on Gorse Ride North in Finchampstead and League organisers look forward to seeing you there. v October 27 The league took a backseat to the Philmar Cup and it was a week of high scores.

With much as stake, there were 42 goals scored and only two teams – Reading Saints and West Reading Reserves – failing to find the back of the net. Interestingly, both teams lost 5-0: Saints to Tilehurst Albion and West Reading Reserves to St Paul’s Ealing.

Brookside Saint Laurence continued their strong start to the season with a 5-1 demolition of Greyfriars FC. The same scoreline saw

v November 10 Bethel’s lead was cut back after drawing 1-1 with a Kerith squad keen to make up for last week’s defeat.

However, Brookside was unable to captialise on Bethel’s two points dropped, as they were held to a 2-2 draw by Wycliffe Wanderers.

High scores were to be found elsewhere: West Reading Reserves beat Greyfriars 3-1,

FIXTURES KICK OFF 10.30am on Saturdays v December 8 B’side St Laurence Finchamp’ Baptist Tilehurst Albion Reading Saints

West Reading

v Norreys v Wycliffe Wanderers v Greyfriars FC v Bethel United v W Rdg Reserves

v December 15 Wycliffe Wanderers

Greyfriars FC Kerith Community B’side St Laurence

Bethel United

B

v Tilehurst Albion v Norreys10:30 v Reading Saints v West Reading v West Rdg Reserves

v January 12

Norreys Reading Saints

West Reading W Rdg Reserves

Bethel United

v Tilehurst Albion v Finchamp’ Baptist v Greyfriars FC v Kerith Community v B’side St Laurence

v January 19

W Rdg Reserves v Finchamp’ Baptist Wycliffe Wanderers v Norreys Tilehurst Albion v West Reading

Greyfriars FC v Bethel United Kerith Community v B’side St Laurence

league TABLE

1

Brookside St Laurence 2 2 0 0 10 4 6

2 Rdg Community Church 2 1 0 1 7 7 3 3

Carrey Corinthians 2 1 0 1 7 8 3

4

Greyfriars 2 0 0 2 9 4 0

v October 27 results S’ Ealing & Brentford Carey Corinthians W Reading Reserves

St Andrews Wycliffe Wanderers

Greyfriars FC Kerith Community

Tilehurst Albion

5 - 1 Finchampstead Baptist 4 - 3 Rdg Community Church 0 - 5 St Pauls, Ealing 4 - 4 Norreys 1 - 1 Bethel United 1 - 5 B’side St Laurence FC 2 - 1 West ReadingReport 5 - 0 Reading Saints

v October 13 results

Rdg Community 4 - 3 Greyfriars FC

v October 6 results

B’side St Laurence 5 - 3 Carey Corinthians

v September 29 results

F inchampstead Baptist 0 - 4 Wycliffe Wanderers

St Pauls, Ealing 2 - 2 Tilehurst Albion

Norreys 3 - 17 Kerith Community

Reading Saints 2 - 1 West Reading Reserves

West Reading 7 - 2 St Andrews

Bethel United 2 - 1 S’ Ealing & Brentford

top SCORERS

P W D L F A W D L F A GD PTS

Ben Findlay Kerith Community Church 14

1 Bethel United 8 3 1 0 10 5 3 1 0 8 2 11 20

Jamie Carstairs West Reading

13

2

B’side Saint Laurence FC 7 2 1 0 13 6 3 1 0 18 5 20 17

Neil Healy Wycliffe Wanderers

10

3

Tilehurst Albion 7 3 0 1 24 5 2 0 1 13 4 28 15

Steve Hannah Tilehurst Albion

10

4

West Reading 6 3 0 1 12 5 2 0 0 7 1 13 15

5

Wycliffe Wanderers 7 3 1 0 17 11 1 0 2 9 11 4 13

Ben Sheppard Brookside St Laurence FC 9 Matt Blake Reading Saints

7

6 Kerith Community Church 7 1 0 1 10 4 2 1 2 24 13 17 10

Fernando Ii Bethel United

5

7

Ben Blackledge Brookside St Laurence FC 5

Reading Saints 7 0 1 2 3 16 3 0 1 13 8 -8 10

8

Finchampstead Baptist 8 2 0 3 11 15 0 0 3 1 22 -25 6

Danny Lawrence Tilehurst Albion

5

9

West Reading Reserves 7 1 0 0 3 1 0 1 5 6 35 -27 4

Ross Thompson Wycliffe Wanderers

4

Brady Lily Tilehurst Albion

4

10

Greyfriars FC 7 1 0 4 14 14 0 0 2 2 5 -3 3

11

Norreys 7 0 0 4 2 25 0 0 3 6 13 -30 0

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v What’s on These are some special events taking place in the community over the next month.

A full events calendar, complete with listings for local activities and special church services and can be found at xnmedia.co.uk.

You can also submit your own events by sending an email to editor@xnmedia.co.uk

Tuesday, December 4 WOKINGHAM – Corpus Christi Church. Christingle service, followed by games and activities including a visit from Father Christmas. 4pm.

Thursday, December 6 SOUTHCOTE – St Matthew’s Church, Southcote Road.

Christingle family service.

6pm.

Friday, December 7 READING – Greyfriars Church, Friar Street. Under fives Christmas party. 10.1511.15am. For pre-school children and their parents/ carers. Crafts, stories, songs, party games and refreshments.

TILEHURST – St Michael’s Church Hall, The Meadway.

Christmas fair. 6-9pm. Santa’s grotto, mulled wine, mince pies, barbecue sausage sizzles, stalls.

Saturday, December 8 CAVERSHAM – St Andrew’s Church, Albert Road.

Christmas Concerto by Candlelight. 7.30pm.

Professional musicians on your doorstep from the country’s finest orchestras and ensembles. Seasonal refreshments also available.

Advance tickets £15 (£13 concessions), or £17 (£15) on the door. Under 16s free.

Available from (0118) 9484 112 / 946 3202.

EARLEY – Brookside Christian Centre, Gipsy Lane. 7.30pm.

Reading Operatic Society are putting on a Christmas Concert, with maybe a nautical theme as well, to raise funds for The Jubilee Sailing Trust. There will be a short presentation about the Trust, items for sale & refreshments. All welcome. £10. Details. Jean Theobald (0118) 926 7135 or readingops.ticketsource. co.uk.

EARLEY – St Peter’s Church, Church Hall. Christmas Fayre. 11am-2pm.

EMMER GREEN – St Barnabas Church. Tapestry Female Voice Choir present a concert

by Candlelight. 8pm. Tickets: £5 (under 10s free). Details: www.tapestrychoir.co.uk PURLEY-ON-THAMES – St Mary’s Church, St Mary’s

Avenue. Christmas Tree Festival. 10am-7pm. Also Sunday, 12.30pm-6pm.

READING – Carey Baptist Church. International Christmas Social Event.

Noon.

READING – 2 Southern Court, South Street. Christmas fair.

Santa, festive crafts homemade cards, cakes and more.

11am-3pm. In aid of Reading Voluntary Action.

SANDHURST – Sandhurst and Yateley Methodist Church.

Christmas Fair. 10.30am12.30pm.

TWYFORD – St Mary’s.

Christmas Tree Festival with Steve Price, illusionist. 7pm.

Tickets: Adult £6, Child £2, Family £15. Tickets: (0118) 9344792 or (0118) 9340642.

WINKFIELD – St Mary’s Church, Church Road. Music for Christmas service. 7.30pm.

Enthusiastic celebration of Christmas music, including mini-orchestra, a children’s choir and more. Tickets £10 (£5 under 13s). Details: 01344 882918 or anthony. locksride@btinternet.com WOODLEY – Woodley Library.

Aladdin and the Library Genie. Fun pantomime, with full audience participation, craft and refreshments.

4.30pm. £4 charge.

WOODLEY – Christ Church.

Reading Male Voice Choir Concert. With a choir of girls from St Joseph’s School.

7.30pm. Tickets £10.

Sunday, December 9 BINFIELD – Newbold Church.

Living Nativity experience.

Live animals, refreshment stalls and parking available.

4-7pm. Dress warmly.

EARLEY – Trinity, Chalfont Close. Christingle service.

4pm.

HARMANS WATER – Bracknell United Reformed Church.

Parade and gift service. 11am.

Food items collected for Bracknell Food Bank.

PANGBOURNE – Falkland Islands Memorial Chapel.

Christmas Concert of Carols and Readings. 7pm. League of Friends of the Royal Berkshire Hospital invite everyone. Entry: £12.50, includes wine and mince pies. Contact (0118) 322 8592 to buy before the day.

READING – Park United Reformed Church. Gift Parade Service. Toys and gifts brought to support local charities. Involving Rangers, Guides, Brownies, Rainbows, Scouts, Cubs, Beavers and Pilots.

READING – Abbey Baptist Church, Abbey Square. Toy and gift service. 10.30am.

READING – Foster Wheeler, Shinfield Park. Annual Toy Run by Reading Christian Motorcyclists. Toys collected then given to Barnardo’s High Close School, who distribute to children. 1pm. Details: readingtoyrun.blogspot.co.uk and www.barnardos.org.uk.

READING – Emmanuel Methodist Church, Oxford Road. Christingle and gift service. 10.30am.

TILEHURST – St Michael’s, The Meadway. Christingle service for children. 9.30am.

WOKINGHAM – All Saints.

Christingle service. 4pm.

WOODCOTE –Christ the King Church. Parish Nativity Play.

3pm. Refreshments to follow.

YATELEY – St Swithuns Church, Firgrove Road.

Midwinter Prom. 7.30pm.

Park Opera present a festive treat of Christmas favourites and popular highlights from opera and musical theatre.

Tickets £10 (£5 under 16s) from Parish Office 01252 872732.

Thursday, December 13 EMMER GREEN – St Barnabas Church. Christingle service.

7pm, service with 89th Reading Scout Group. In aid of The Children’s Society.

GORING – Goring Free Church. Play for all the family

by Riding Lights Theatre Company. 7.30pm.

WOKINGHAM – Wokingham Baptist Church. Christmas lunch. 1pm. Everyone welcome for £8 a head. Give names to Church Office at (0118) 9787174 or office@ workinghambaptist.org.uk.

Friday, December 14 BRACKNELL – Kerith Centre.

Kerith Community Church hosts LIFE – Winter Wonderland: a meeting for people aged 11-18. 7pm.

PURLEY-ON-THAMES – The Barn, Goosecroft Lane.

Celebrate Christmas with The Thames Vale Singers. 7.30pm.

Tickets £9, concessions £7 includes mince pies and wine. Contact (0118) 984 2563 or (0118) 962 4425.

Repeats on Saturday 15.

WOKINGHAM – All Saints.

Children’s Nativity. 11am.

A new play written and directed by Nicky Allpress. All welcome.

Saturday, December 15 SONNING COMMON – Village Hall, Wood Lane.

Springwater church presents Get In The Picture: have a family Christmas nativity photo taken. Dress up, download and enjoy! Free.

10am-3pm. Details: (0118) 972 4519.

SOUTHCOTE – Coronation Square. Carols featuring music by The Salvation army, refreshments in St Matthew’s

Calendar Church Hall. 6pm.

TWYFORD – St Mary’s Church, Station Road. Twyford Singers Christmas concert: Carols and Christmas songs.

7.30pm. £8, £4 under 16s.

Details: (0118) 934 5985.

WOKINGHAM – Wokingham Methodist Church. Carols for Christmas. With the Forest Singers. 7.30pm. £7.

WOODLEY – Christ Church.

Christmas Tree Festival.

10am-4pm. Donations in aid of Tools for Self Reliance.

Sunday, December 16 ALDWORTH – St Mary the Virgin. Traditional Carol Service, followed by seasonal refreshments. 6.30pm.

BRACKNELL – Bracknell Catholic Church. Senior Citizen’s Christmas Lunch.

10am. Details: 01344 425 729.

CAVERSHAM – St John the Baptist. All age Christingle service. 10am. Info: (0118) 947 1703.

EARLEY– Brookside Church.

Kids Christmas Special.

10.30am. Fun packed morning for children aged 5-11. Under fives welcome but must be accompanied.

Includes games, craft and food. Details: lbisset@ brooksidechurch.org.uk.

EARLEY – St Nicholas. People, Prayers and Potatoes with Christingle and a children’s party. Noon. Carols by candlelight 6.30pm.

FINCHAMPSTEAD – St Mary & St John’s Church. Family Carols for everyone. 9.45am.

FINCHAMPSTEAD – Wellington College Chapel. Nine Lessons & Carols. 4pm.

GORING – Village Hall. Nativity service. 10.30am.

READING – Reading Girls’ School. Reading Family Church present Carol Concert with Adrian Holloway. 4pm and 7pm.

Tickets free, booking essential. Details: (0118) 933 7961 or churchoffice@ readingfamilychurch.org.uk.

READING – Abbey Baptist Church, Abbey Square.

Carols by candlelight. 4pm.

SANDHURST – Sandhurst and Yateley Methodist Church.

Carols by Candlelight service.

6.30pm.

READING – Emmanuel Methodist Church, Oxford Road. Carol service. 10.30am.

SANDHURST – St Barnabas church. 6.30pm. Festival of Carols service.

TILEHURST – Cornwell Centre.

Carols and Nativity service.

4pm.

TWYFORD – United Reformed Church. Service of Nine Lessons and Carols. 4.30pm.

UPPER BASILDON – St Stephen’s. Traditional carol service followed by seasonal refreshments. 5pm.

WARGRAVE – Knowl Hill.

Carol service. Mince pies and mulled wine. 6pm.

WHITCHURCH-ON-THAMES – The Greyhound, Whitchurch. Family carol singing evening. Mulled wine, mince pies and sausage rolls.

7pm, free.

WOKINGHAM – St Sebastian’s.

Christingle service. 10am.

Carol service at 7pm.

WOKINGHAM – Norreys Church. Live Nativity event.

11am-3pm.

WOODLEY – Christ Church.

Christmas Tree Festival.

2-5pm. Donations in aid of Tools for Self Reliance.

YATELEY – St Swithuns Church, Firgrove Road.

Christmas Lunch. After 10.30am. Mass, with Annual Christmas Lunch. If interested, put name on list in church porch. £10 per adult, £5 for children (under 5 free).

Details: 01252 872732.

Monday, December 17 CAVERSHAM – Caversham Court. The Salvation Army band joins Churches Together in Caversham.

7.30pm.

SOUTHCOTE – Southcote Mission. 7.30pm. Aglow Reading’s Overcoming Rejection meeting. £3 on the door (first meeting free).

Details: www.readingaglow. org.uk.

Wednesday, December 19 TILEHURST – Tilehurst Methodist Church. Carols around the piano. 2pm and 7pm.

CAVERSHAM – St John the Baptist. Carol Service.

7.30pm. Info: (0118) 947 1703.

Thursday, December 20 UPPER BASILDON – St Stephen’s. Carols round the Christmas Tree. 7pm.

Friday, December 21 READING – Greyfriars Church.

Chaconne Brass Chamber Ensemble Christmas Concert.

Performance incorporating Middle Eastern influences and traditional carols. Tickets: £16 (£12 concessions) from Hickies Music Shop. Details: www.chaconnebrass.com.

READING – Emmanuel Methodist Church, Oxford Road. 7pm. Sing Noel: An Evening of Entertainment.

Saturday, December 22 EARLEY – St Peter’s Church.

Service of Nine Lessons and Carols. 6.30pm.

READING – St Luke’s Church, Erleigh Road. Reading Asian Christian Fellowship (RACF) Christmas celebration.

4pm. Details: (0118) 941 0525.

TILEHURST – St Michael’s, The Meadway. Berkshire Maestros in concert. 7.30pm.

Sunday, December 23 HARMANS WATER – Bracknell United Reformed Church.

Carols by Candlelight.

6.30pm. Bring a torch.

v There’s more what’s on dates on our website! Log on to www.xnmedia.co.uk

BRACKNELL –Kerith Community Church. Carol concerts. 10am, 4pm, 7pm.

BURGHFIELD – St Mary’s church. Carols by candlelight. 6.30pm.

CAVERSHAM – Caversham Heights. Carol service.

6.30pm.

CAVERSHAM – Gosbrook Road Church. Carol service. 10am.

CROWTHORNE – Edgbarrow School. Wokingham Vineyard Church with their Carol service and nativity. 6pm.

CROWTHORNE – Crowthorne Methodist Church. Carol Service. 4pm. Service led by Revd Jackie Case.

CROWTHORNE – St John The Baptist Church. Traditional Nine Lessons and Carols.

6pm.

EARLEY – Anderson Baptist Church. Carols by Candlelight, 6pm.

FINCHAMPSTEAD – St James’ Church. Family Carols for everyone. 9.30am.

GORING – Goring Free Church. Carols by Candlelight. 6.30pm.

READING – Park United Reformed Church. Candlelit service, accompanied by Festival Choir. 6pm. Everyone welcome.

READING – Brookside Church.

Carols by Candlelight.

Traditional carol service followed by refreshments.

6.30pm.

READING – Prospect School.

LifeSpring Church presents an all-age carol service.

6-7pm, followed by mince pies and refreshments. All welcome.

READING – Carey Baptist Church. All-age service.

10.30am-noon. Carol Service follows in evening, from 6.30pm.

READING – Wesley Methodist Church, Queens Road.

Outside Nativity. 6.30pm.

SOUTHCOTE – Southcote Mission. Carols followed by festive tea. 3pm.

TILEHURST – Tilehurst Methodist Church. Candlelit carol service. 6.30pm.

WARGRAVE – Knowl Hill.

Carols by candlelight, followed by mince pies and mulled wine. 4pm.

WOKINGHAM – Elms Field.

The Church At The White House and Wokingham Town Council presents a Live Nativity. 4.15pm.

WOKINGHAM – Wokingham Baptist Church. Carols

by Candlelight. 6.30pm.

Everyone welcome.

WOODLEY – St John. Carol Service. 7pm.

OOOOOO Christmas Eve ALDWORTH – St Mary the Virgin. Children’s Candle Service. 3pm.

ARBORFIELD – Arborfield and Barkham Church. Children’s carol service. 4pm.

BRACKNELL –Kerith Community Church. Nativity 3pm, 5pm.

BRADFIELD – The Lambing Barn, Rushall Farm. The John Simonds Trust presents Christmas Eve In The Barn.

Calendar/Classifieds 3pm or 5.30pm. Dress warmly and bring a torch. Details: (0118) 974 4547.

BURGHFIELD – St Mary’s church. Christingle service, 3pm and 5pm.

BRACKNELL – Bracknell United Reformed Church. Christmas Eve Communion service.

11.15pm.

CAVERSHAM – St John the Baptist. Christmas Eve Crib Service at 7.30pm. Midnight mass at 11.30pm. Info: (0118) 947 1703.

CROWTHORNE – Crowthorne Parish Church. Crib service at 3.30pm. Midnight mass at 11.30pm.

EARLEY – St Nicolas. Carols round the crib, 5.30pm.

Midnight Mass 11.30pm.

EARLEY – Lower Earley Baptist Church. Carols by candlelight. 6pm.

EARLEY – St Peter’s Church.

Crib Service, a service especially for the young. 4pm.

Carols sung by the choir at 11pm, followed by midnight Eucharist at 11.30pm.

EASTHAMPSTEAD – Easthampstead Baptist Church. Christingles. 4pm.

FINCHAMPSTEAD – Finchampstead Baptist Church. Community carols.

5-6.30pm.

FINCHAMPSTEAD – Wellington College Chapel. Christingle service by ticket only. Contact (0118) 973 0133.

READING – The Salvation Army, Anstey Road.

Christmas Eve service, 11.15pm, refreshments from 10.30pm.

READING – Broad Street Mall, Broad Street. Xn presents Carols In The Mall: Community carol singing with the Reading Minster Boys’ Choir and the Reading Central Salvation Army Band.

4.30pm. Free. All welcome.

READING – Abbey Baptist Church, Abbey Square.

Midnight Communion Service. 11.30am.

SANDHURST – Sandhurst and Yateley Methodist Church.

Christmas Eve Service.

11.30pm, led by Revd Keith Lowder.

SANDHURST – St Barnabas church. Christingle service.

3.30pm and 5pm services.

SOUTHCOTE – St Matthew’s church. Crib service. 4pm.

Midnight Eucharist 11.30pm.

TILEHURST – Tilehurst Methodist Church. Noisy Nativity, 4pm. Christmas eve communion, 11.30pm.

TILEHURST – St Michael’s church. Nativity service.

Children invited to dress in costume. 4pm. Nine Lessons and Carols. 6.30pm. First Mass of Christmas. 11.30pm.

THEALE – Holy Trinity Church.

Crib service. 4pm. Midnight communion at 11.30pm.

TWYFORD – St Mary’s. Crib service. 3.30pm. Carols. 7pm.

UPPER BASILDON – St Stephen’s. Family crib service.

5pm.

WARFIELD – St Michael’s.

Christmas Eve Family Service, 4pm. All welcome.

WARFIELD – St Peter’s Whitegrove. Christmas Eve service. 4pm. Family service.

All welcome.

WARFIELD – St Michael’s.

Christmas Eve Midnight Communion. 11.30pm.

WOKINGHAM – St Sebastian’s.

Crib Service. 6pm. Midnight communion 11.30pm.

WOKINGHAM – Woosehill Church. Crib service. 4pm.

WOKINGHAM – Corpus Christi Church. Christmas Eve mass.

4Pm, 6pm and 9pm.

OOOOOO Christmas Day services Family services unless stated.

ALDWORTH – St Mary the Virgin. 11am.

BRACKNELL –Kerith Community Church. 10am.

CROWTHORNE- Crowthorne Parish Church. All-age Eucharist. 10am.

CROWTHORNE – Edgbarrow School. Wokingham Vineyard Church service. 10.30am.

CAVERSHAM – St John the Baptist. All-age communion.

10am.

EASTHAMPSTEAD – Easthampstead Baptist Church. 10.15am.

EARLEY – St Peter’s Church.

Informal Eucharist. 10am.

EARLEY – Brookside Church.

10.30am.

FINCHAMPSTEAD – Finchampstead Baptist.

10.30am.

GORING – Goring Free. 10am.

HARMANS WATER – Bracknell United Reformed Church.

10am.

READING – Park United Reformed Church. 9.30am.

READING – Abbey Baptist Church, Abbey Square.

10.30am.

READING – Emmanuel Methodist Church, Oxford Road. 10.30am.

ROTHERFIELD PEPPARD – Springwater Peppard Congregational Church.

10.30am.

SANDHURST – Sandhurst and Yateley Methodist Church.

10am.

THEALE – Holy Trinity Church.

Family communion. 10am.

TILEHURST – Reading Community Church.

10.30am.

TILEHURST – St Michael’s.

Family Eucharist. 10am.

TILEHURST – Tilehurst Methodist Church. 9.45am.

TWYFORD – St Mary’s.

Christmas communion, 8am.

TWYFORD – St James.

Christmas communion 9am.

UPPER BASILDON – St Stephen.

Family communion. 9.30am.

WOKINGHAM – Woosehill Church. 10am.

WOKINGHAM – Corpus Christi Church. Mass. 9am and 11am.

WOKINGHAM – Wokingham Baptist Church. 10am.

OOOOOO Boxing Day WOKINGHAM – Corpus Christi Church. Boxing Day mass.

10am.

READING – St John and St Stephen Church, Orts Road. Day of prayer for the persecuted church. 10am4pm.

To advertise call 01932 888417 | www.xnmedia.co.uk | December 2012

21

v Local services directory v Situations vacant

URGENTLY REQUIRED

Distributors to deliver and collect catalogues in local area £400-£600pm. Hours to suit.

QS/ Estimator/ Cost Controller

Call 0118 321 7672 now!

v Mobile Mechanic OJS MOTORS MOBILE MECHANIC – All makes and models. Annual checks, MoT repairs, servicing. We can come to your home or work.

07737 704374.

v Driving lessons 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

L

v Plumbing Patterson Plumbers.

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

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

v Maths tuition MATHS TUITION. Experienced, friendly tutor available for students in KS2-4. Boost your child’s confidence in the comfort of your own home!

Contact: Liz Sawyer on 07721 090994.

v Pearlstringing/ jewellery Pearlstringer/Jeweller.

Repairs and alterations to necklaces/jewellery. Orders taken. Visitors welcome to see workshop etc. Tel: Anne Finnerty (0118) 958 8274.

Required for Reading based Church Builders JoyDavid Ltd to cover maternity leave with view to possible extension.

Job to commence beginning of February 2013.

Salary on application.

Computer literacy and own transport essential, experience within the construction industry preferable.

Role to include quantity specification, project costings, quantified invoicing, purchase ordering and cost controls, including process strategy and implementation.

Job specification and application form may be obtained by emailing: Laura@JoyDavid.co.uk or by writing to: JoyDavid Ltd, Building 007, Bulmershe Court, Woodlands Avenue, Earley, Reading, Berkshire, RG6 5UW. Deadline for applications 4th January 2013.

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.

v Counselling Reading Counselling and Psychotherapy.

Margaret Hutton www.asafeplace2talk.co.uk Loddon Counselling & Psychology Service.

Accredited counsellors, supervisors, trainers. Over 20 years experience NHS and other settings. CBT available.

07092 022294

v Construction Kingsmen Limited.

Construction services, extensions, renovations, new builds, electrical, plumbing. www.kingsmenlimited.co.uk (0118) 958 5777.

v Piano accompaniment EXPERIENCED PIANO ACCOMPANIST available for music exams and recitals.

Judith Creighton www. judithcreighton.co.uk or 07957 193366.

v Marketing Creative thinker inspires results.

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

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6 MONTHS JUST £75!

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For details, call Fiona on 01932 888417 or email advertising@xnmedia.co.uk

22

December 2012 | www.xnmedia.co.uk | To advertise call 01932 888417

v Music review

Arts

v Pantomime

A beautiful Rose

A

Lucy Rose at Reading Minster, November 17

BEAUTIFUL church was made even more so last month as indie artist Lucy Rose came to town.

Taking my seat up on the balcony, it was hard not to sit and admire the beauty of the venue. The Reading Minster church of St Mary the Virgin at the heart of Reading’s town centre is even more incredible on the inside than it looks on the outside, and the atmosphere was buzzing.

Support act Pete Roe started the concert off awkwardly. There was a problem with the lead for his guitar, so while his opening song may have been a wonderful, soothing song actually turned out to be an earsore for the audience, with electric interference having people clench their jaws.

Once declaring “it’s time to admit defeat, isn’t it?” and changing the lead, his talent came to the fore.

Pete Roe was just one man, on his guitar, with a pedal and a microphone – but the sounds he could make with those were thrilling.

Lucy Rose came onto the stage with her band, took her seat, and told the audience of how taken aback she was by the venue: “It’s Saturday night, and we’re in a church.”

Once the music began, it was hard to imagine the sounds in any other venue. Her voice is calming and her personality charming – she even gave one audience member the opportunity to come onto stage and give her a hug – but it is the songs that make her popular and you can hear why.

There was no performance, as such, she and the band took their places on stage, with their instrument and tapped a toe, wiggled a hip or nodded a head – but there were no flashing lights, dance routines or screaming fans.

This gig was an occasion to gather round, listen and applaud her talent.

And yes, Lucy Rose has plenty of musical talent.

STEVE CURTIS

The Beauty And The Beast cast (from left) Nigel Nevinson, Justin Fletcher, Vicki Michelle and Jolyon Dixon

Bringing Beauty (and the Beast) to life A festive treat for many families is the pantomime.

But have you ever thought about how the show comes together? STEVE CURTIS goes behind the scenes THE BEAUTY and the Beast are coming to Reading in pantomime form this month.

Brought to life by Imagine Theatre and written by BAFTA award-winning Iain Lauchlan and Will Brenton, the show – which takes place at The Hexagon from Saturday, December 8 – has taken 18 months to plan and produce.

Following on from Sleeping Beauty in 2010 and Aladdin in 2011, this years’ production once again sees the return of CBeebies megastar Justin Fletcher MBE. Imagine Theatre was originally known as Tell-Tale, before changing its name to WISH Theatre. In 2009, the company evolved again and became Imagine Theatre.

On becoming Imagine, the company’s business director Sarah Boden (and also wife of Beauty And The Beast director Steve) explained that it was the perfect fit for what they do.

“We really liked the idea – panto is very much about using creativity,” she said.

Sarah lives and breathes pantomimes all year round, with endless rounds of preparations.

But it hasn’t always been this way. She studied Theology at the St John Theological College in Nottingham, and gained an academic degree and vocabulary training.

She explains: “The thing I carry through is family.

“That’s what the teaching is all about, that’s what it comes down to.”

And that family feeling is for Sarah, the most important and most attractive thing about pantomimes.

“Christmas is about family, and sharing time together. It’s suitable for the smallest to the biggest,” she said.

That family feeling comes in to Beauty And The Beast.

“This is one of those things that you can bring your Granny to,” Sarah says.

To make the stage sparkle and give children life-long memories of fun, laughter and plenty

of slosh, a team of 70 work together and through some tough hours to pull it all together and make it all look so effortless.

It might seem like a thankless task, but Sarah says that the sound of children cheering is the perfect reward for all the effort.

“Once you get into the theatre, and you hear the children shout … you’d work twice as many hours for that,” she said.

The key thing that separates Imagine Theatre from other pantomimes – and has seen them win plaudits with Reading audiences since they took over The Hexagon’s Christmas show in 2010 – is the story-telling aspect.

Justin Fletcher is brought in to play the character that dictates the storyline, always based on the traditional story and following the conventions of a classic pantomime.

The cast is complemented with a mixture of household names and great actors, including this year the return of Nigel Nevinson who played the King in Sleeping Beauty and Vicki Michelle – waitress Yvette in ‘Allo ‘Allo – as the the Enchantress.

It’s this mixture, along with fun, games and sublime songs that have seen record audiences pack The Hexagon for the past two seasons.

Sarah said: “They [the audiences] come and hear a story well told.”

Over the past two years, Justin has formed a formidable double act with Jolyon Dixon as the Dame and a big highlight for many youngsters is seeing them make a mess with slosh and some custard pies. It’s a winning combination.

“You can’t beat a custard pie in the face,” she said, before adding: “you go to a panto at Christmas for escapism.

“Pantos always have a happy ending.

Everybody needs a bit of romance.”

With this year’s panto here, you might think that Sarah is ready to put her feet up: but each show takes 18 months to prepare and work has already begun on 2013’s shows.

But what will it be? We’ll have to wait and see.

Oh yes we will. v Beauty And The Beast runs at The Hexagon from Saturday, December 8 to Sunday, January 6. Tickets cost from £9.50. Two performances are signed on Thursday, December 27 and there is an audio described performance on Friday, December 28. For more details, log on to www.readingarts. com or call the box office on (0118) 960 6060.

Arts

To advertise call 01932 888417 | www.xnmedia.co.uk | December 2012

v Cinema

v Concerts v FIND a date and head down to Yateley for a festive Midwinter Prom.

Park Opera is presenting a festive treat at St Swithun’s Church on Firgrove Road.

The event on Sunday, December 8 will be packed full of Christmas favourites and popular highlights from opera and musical theatre.

Tickets for the prom, starting at 7.30pm, cost £10 or £5 under 16s.

For details, call the Parish Office on 01252 872732.

v Gambit (12a)

Moviewatch

Stars: Colin Firth, Alan Rickman, Cameron Diaz

H

Cinema with Martin Ceaser

arry Dean (Colin Firth) is a downtrodden curator of an art collection belonging to the extremely wealthy and unpleasant Lord Lionel Shahbandar (Alan Rickman).

Fed up with constant bad treatment, Dean hatches a plot to con his boss into buying a faked copy of a Monet painting that was lost during the Second World War, with the help of PJ Puznowski (Cameron Diaz) and a forger, rather strangely known as The Major (Tom Courtenay).

The plan is described as very simple, but of course it doesn’t turn out like that at all.

In fact, nothing goes as Harry imagines it and he ends up in all sorts of bother along the way, including the loss of his trousers, an encounter with a lion, and three punches on the nose.

The opening animated sequence evokes memories of the Pink Panther movies, and you expect to see Gambit unfold as an Ealing-style farce, but it never quite makes it.

However, Firth, Rickman and Diaz all put in great performances and, although there are some moments that make you chuckle, there are no “laugh out loud” funnies.

This is a remake of the 1966 Michael Caine film, and features a new screenplay by the Coen brothers.

Gambit makes no moral or ethical statements (Coen brothers films are often amoral) but if you want something that you don’t have to think too hard about in the run up to Christmas, and only lasts 90 minutes, this fits the bill nicely.

Oh, watch out for the very clever twist at the end...

v Christmas movies

And talking of Christmas, here’s my top five festive films: top of the list comes The Muppet Christmas Carol – we watch it every Christmas Eve and it never fails to delight.

Second comes Elf, which is delightfully silly, with Will Ferrell at his comic best, and third comes Santa Claus the Movie, a nice, fluffy tale of Santa versus the nasty BZ toys, with great turns from Dudley Moore and John Lithgow.

Fourth is Santa Who?, with Leslie Nielsen losing his memory after falling out of the sleigh and needing a child’s help to rediscover his true identity.

Fifth is Jack Frost with Michael Keaton – it’s not particularly Christmassy, but a very funny story. v Do you agree with Martin? Or are you annoyed that he’s left out The Nativity Story, How The Grinch Stole Christmas or It’s A Wonderful Life?

Log on to xnmedia.co.uk and have your say!

What do you think? Have your say on our Facebook page or tweet us @xnmedia

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v THERE will be professional musicians on the doorsteps of Caversham this festive season.

St Andrew’s Church, Caversham will be hosting a Christmas Concerto by Candlelight event on Saturday, December 8.

The concert, which begins at 7.30pm, will feature Naomi Watts on cello and Xuan Du on violin.

Seasonal refreshments will be available during the interval.

Advance tickets for the event cost £15 or £13 for concessions.

Tickets on the door will cost £17 or £15, with under 16s going free.

To book tickets, call (0118) 948 4112 or (0118) 946 3202. v THE Forest Singers are warming up for their festive concert.

WIth help from musical director Eileen Goode, the singers will present Carols for Christmas at Wokingham Methodist Church on Saturday, December 15 at 7.30pm.

Tickets for the light-hearted musical evening cost £7 and include refreshments.

For details, call the church office on (0118) 977 6898.

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v A NAUTICALLY-themed festive concert is coming to Earley.

Brookside Christian Centre will host Reading Operatic Society on Saturday, December 8.

The Christmas concert will raise funds for the Jubilee Sailing Trust.

The concert will have a short presentation about the Trust, items for sale and refreshments.

The choir will be accompanied

by Judith Creighton.

All are welcome and the fun starts at 7.30pm, with tickets at £10. For more details, call Joyce on (0118) 935 1951.

ANSWERS

Firth’s theft is a Gambit

Jesus Culture

23

Pop into your local store Monday-Saturday Or visit us online at quenchshops.com Store addresses & opening hours are on-line Maidenhead 01628 621985 Reading 0118 957 6078 Slough 01753 538999 Wokingham 0118 977 6715

Christmas a reflection of God’s love Churches Together in Earley and East Reading invite you to celebrate this Christmas THE LIVING NATIVITY Sunday, 23 December Join a Nativity drama meeting the animals from 2.45pm at Wesley Methodist Church and then walking with Mary and Joseph, wise men and shepherds, singing carols on the way to St Andrew’s United Reformed Church, London Road.

Abbey Baptist Church, Abbey Square Sunday 16 December 4pm Carols by Candlelight Christmas Eve 11.30pm Midnight Communion Christmas Day 10.30am Christmas Celebration

Anderson Baptist Church, Amherst Road Sunday 16 December 10.30am All-age Christmas Tree and Gift Service Sunday 23 December 10.30am ‘Christmas is Coming’ 6pm Carols by Candlelight Christmas Day 10.30am Worship for all ages

Brookside Church, Brookside Close, Earley

Sunday 16 December 10.30am Kids’ AM Christmas Special Craft and fun, for school years 1-6. Under 5s welcome with an adult.

Sunday 23 December 6.30pm Carols by Candlelight Christmas Day 10.30am Family Service

Earley St Peter’s Church, Church Road Sunday 23 December 6.30pm Service of Nine Lessons and Carols Christmas Eve 4pm Crib service especially for the young 11.30pm Midnight Eucharist Carols sung by the choir from 11pm Christmas Day 8am Holy Communion 10am Christmas Communion for all ages

Lower Earley Baptist Church, Maiden Place, Lower Earley Sunday 23 December 10am Family Christmas Service Christmas Eve 6pm Carols by Candlelight Christmas Day 10am Family Service

Lower Earley Salvation Army, Chalfont Close, Lower Earley Christmas Eve 11.30pm Carols by Candlelight Christmas Day 9.30am Service - 9.30 am

Network Vineyard Church, Bulmershe Leisure Centre, Woodlands Avenue Sunday 16 December 10.30am Special Christmas Family Service Sunday 23 December 10.30am Carol Service with Mince Pies and Mulled Wine

Our Lady of Peace and Blessed Dominic Barberi Church, Wokingham Road Christmas Eve 5pm Children’s Carol Service 11.30pm Midnight Mass with carols sung from 11pm Christmas Day Masses at 9am and 11am.

Park United Reformed Church, Palmer Park Avenue Sunday 23 December

For directions & further details: www.churchesinreading.org.uk

10.30am Morning Worship 6pm Lessons and carols by candlelight Christmas Day 9.30am Christmas Day Service

Reading Quaker Meeting, Church Street Sunday 16 December 10.30am Meeting with carols and shared lunch Sunday 23 December 10.30am Meeting for worship

St Andrew’s United Reformed Church, London Road Sunday 23 December 11am Christmas Worship 6.30pm Service of Lessons and Carols Christmas Day 10.30am Family Service

St Bartholomew’s Church, St Bartholomew’s Road Monday 17 December 7.00pm Congregational Carols Sunday 23 December 9.15am Usual Sunday Communion Christmas Eve 4.00pm Crib Service

Christmas Day 10am Christmas Communion with carols

St Luke’s Church, Erleigh Road Saturday 22 December 4pm Reading Asian Christian Fellowship Christmas celebration Sunday 23 December 10.30am Usual Sunday Communion Christmas Eve 4pm Crib Service 11.30pm Midnight Mass Christmas Day 12.30pm Urdu Punjabi Hindi Christmas Day Celebration

St Nicolas Church, Sutcliffe Avenue Sunday 16 December 12noon People, Prayers and Potatoes Christingle Service 6.30pm Carols by Candlelight Christmas Eve 5.30pm Carols around the Crib with a special Nativity Play 11.30pm Midnight Mass Christmas Day 10am Christmas Day Celebration Communion

Trinity Church, Chalfont Close, Lower Earley Sunday 16 December 5.00pm Carol Service

Christmas Eve 11.15pm Midnight Communion 4pm Crib Service Christmas Day 10am Family Worship

Wesley Methodist Church, Queen’s Road Sunday 16 December 4pm Christingle Sunday 23 December 10.30am Carol Service 3pm Live nativity on the streets Christmas Eve 11.30pm Midnight communion Christmas Day 10am Christmas celebration

St William of York, Upper Redlands Road & St James, Abbot’s Walk Roman Catholic Churches Christmas Eve 6pm Christmas Family Mass, held at St James 11.30pm Christmas Midnight Mass, held at St James Christmas Day 9.00am Christmas Day Mass, held at St William of York 11am Christmas Day Mass, held at St James

Churches Together in Earley and East Reading