Eye Magazine July 2021 Burghfield, Mortimer & Surrounds Issue 102

Issue 102 July 2021 reaching 11,500 households

Priceless!

Priceless!

eye

The area’s favourite monthly magazine

SATURDAY

Sunday

17th & 18th July, Dinton Pastures

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TAKE A PEEK INSIDE

THE AREA’S FAVOURITE LOCAL MONTHLY MAGAZINE

EACH MONTH WE DELIVER DOOR TO DOOR TO 11,500 HOMES & BUSINESSES IN:

Burghfield Common | Burghfield Village | Beech Hill | Mortimer | Theale | Brimpton | Silchester | Sulhamstead 1 Midgham| Ufton Nervet | Aldermaston | Padworth | Pamber Heath | Tadley | Baughurst | Woolhampton | Bramley

Parkway's Big Screen

28 June - 16 August Big Screen Summer of Sport Deck Chairs, Grab & Go food, offers & entertainment!

See the full schedule at www.shopatparkway.com

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5 14 GLOBAL Business Awards

Winner Most Outstanding Regional Lifestyle Magazine

2021

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L’Ortolan...

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Win a Seven Course Meal for Two!

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4. Community News Who do you know in our Community News round-up?

We’ve been finding out all the news around the villages to make sure we keep you up-to-date!

22-23. On the Move Are you planning a home move in 2021? Perhaps your dream home is right here. Take a look at what’s on offer with David Cliff this month.

6-7. Marvellous Festivals!

The original - and still the best tribute festival will be coming to Dinton Pastures later this month and what a line-up they have this year. Take a look at page 6 to find out more.

24-32. Pink Pages Find your local trusted trades within our Pink Pages. If you’re an electrician, a roofer, a windows installer or providing any other trade to our local community, get listed! Give our friendly team a call on 0118 933 33 11.

8. Bug’s Beauty Our regular beauty columnist, Amelia (better known as ‘Bug’) tells us everything we need to know about teeth whitening this month. So take some tips and get smiling with confidence!

41. Eye On The Box Our regular Movies and TV columnist, Rob Barnes, brings us his thoughts on two new releases this month: A Quiet Place II and Supernova.

keep it local!

eye

Gold Member

PINKTOMATO

Have a fantastic July!

Helle n & the Team xx

eye

The area’s favourite monthly magazine

SATURDAY

Sunday

holds

The Village Eye is brought to you by Pinktomato Ltd, a local, independent creative design and marketing company. All content within the publication is copyright of Village Eye. The publishers cannot accept responsibility for views or opinions expressed by contributors or for the accuracy of claims made by the advertisers.

All dates, times, URLs and telephone numbers are understood to be correct at the time of submission to print. Registered Address: Butlers Lands Farm, Mortimer, RG7 2AG

Our cover sponsor this month is Marvellous Festival who remain the biggest and the best family tribute festival around. And, we bring you some Marvellous news…Even after the Government announcement on 14th June, the festival

As always, we’d like to extend a big thank you to our readers, our advertisers and our contributors. Please mention Eye Magazine when contacting our advertisers.

11,500 house

42. Youth Fitness Uncovered Focusing on health and fitness at a early age will set healthy foundations for later in life.

Steve Shreeve gives us insight into the best way to approach fitness for those aged 16+ who are just starting to hit the gym.

We must also say a big ‘hello’ to our new readers of this edition, too. For the very first time, homes in Brimpton, Midgham and Woolhampton will be receiving Eye magazine, so we do hope you enjoy reading and engaging with it as much as we enjoy putting it together.

can still go ahead!

It all takes place at Dinton Pastures across the weekend of 17th and 18th July, so take a look inside to see the full line up and get your tickets today!

July 2021 reaching

14. Eye on Celebrity We caught up with Michelle Jordan from BBC Radio Berkshire who gave us the low down on her interesting route into radio and how the BBC are recruiting fresh young talent.

36-37. School’s Out for Summer!

If you’re starting to think about what to do with the kids in the summer holidays, look no further.

What a busy month it has been here at Village Eye HQ! Not only have we been working hard on this fabulous issue to reach you in July, we have also launched the magazine into a new area (Earley & surrounds) this month too, so it has been go-go-go! This new edition of Eye magazine will go to 18,000 new homes!

Issue 102

13. Win a Seven Course Tasting Menu at L’Ortolan We have teamed up with Reading’s Michelin star restaurant, L’Ortolan, to give you the chance to win a seven course taster menu for two and a glass of fizz on arrival! Bon Appetit!

Hello July!

Priceless!

Price less!

What’s inside

17 th & 18 th

July, Dinton Pastures

MeetingBBC’s Michelle Jordan

WIN A COURSE SEVEN MENU FORTASTING TWO AT

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Editor: Hellen Shaw Sub Editor: Jackie Stuart Advertising: Lindsey Barker Social/Design: Holly Chrisp Beauty: Amelia Baird Motoring: Adam Tudor-Lane

MONTHL Y MAGAZIN

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Film Buff: Gardening: Finance: Travel: Wellbeing: Fitness:

To contribute, advertise or let us know your news - please call the team 0118 933 3311 or email hello@villageeye.co.uk

Rob Barnes Jordan Curtis Mark Penston Michelle Goulding Karen Hartshorn Steve Shreeve

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LOCAL SOLICITOR PLEDGES HER EXPERTISE TO HELP MND ASSOCIATION Catherine Whitaker, Solicitor and Director of Legacy Law has been volunteering to support the MND Association since her cousin was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease at the young age of 38 last year. She can’t do anything to change his diagnosis, but she hopes that by improving and revising the legal information provided to those with MND, it will help someone.

The MND Association is focused on improving access to care, research and campaigning for people affected by motor neurone disease.

Catherine told us, “I have found it truly lovely to be able to lend my professional expertise to the revision and amendment of the care information produced by the charity. This is aimed at those with MND and those affected by MND.” The MND Association has now launched their new End of Life Guide and Catherine is pleased and proud to have been able to support the revisions and evolution of this amazing source of information and support.

She also hopes that by raising awareness of the research needed into the condition and the possibility of a cure being found in only a few short years, this might bring about change and hope for the future. The charity really needs the support of the public to put pressure on the government for funding into research for a cure.

Citizens Advice Tadley STILL THERE FOR YOU

Citizens Advice Tadley is still closed for drop ins, but they are lucky to have a team of experienced advisers working either from the office or remotely from home ensuring that their service has continued without interruption during the pandemic. They are offering advice via phone, email and via Zoom where necessary. Unsurprisingly, the demand for advice has not reduced during the last year although they have noticed some different trends.

Normally the top enquiry areas are benefits and debt but during the last year they have had nearly three times the number of calls about employment issues - and this overtook the number of debt enquiries for the first time.

The reduction in the number of calls about debt can probably be put down to the government measures - including furlough, payment holidays and the halt to evictions - but all debt advice agencies are preparing for the rise in demand that will come as these support measures end.

If Citizens Advice Tadley can help you with any issues - whether benefits, work, housing, debt, family or consumer issues - please do get in touch directly with the office on 0118 981 7567 or call their freephone number 0808 278 79 87.

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GREEN PARK DAY NURSERY CELEBRATES WORLD ENVIRONMENT DAY Children at Green Park Day Nursery had great fun celebrating World Environment Day inJune following the news that the nursery has become ‘Climate Positive’, which means they are saving more greenhouse gas emissions than they generate.

a recycling centre and researching sea pollution, the pre-schoolers were immersed in really exciting learning experiences. The team pledged to go meat-free for the day, as well as turn off lights and taps to save resources wherever possible.

The nursery has also earned a prestigious ‘Green Flag’, the highest accolade in the internationally-recognised EcoSchools programme, which is awarded for exceptional environmental awareness and conservation practices.

Green Park Day Nursery Manager, Mandy Cooper explained, “We had a brilliant time celebrating World Environment Day and reminding ourselves of the small steps we can take every day to do our bit in helping the planet for future generations to come.”

From composting and planting vegetables to creating

Happy 100th Birthday Masie!

Now, we don’t normally do birthday shout-outs... But on this occassion, we are making an exception because this lovely local, Masie has just celebrated her 100th birthday!

This photo was kindly sent into us by Eleos Care, Masie’s carers, as they thought she deserved a special mention!

Proudly showing off her telegram from Her Majesty, The Queen, Masie spent the day celebrating with her son and on Zoom with the rest of her family.

So, from us all here at Eye HQ, we send you our very best belated wishes Masie!

To contribute, advertise or let us know your news please call 0118 933 3311 or email hello@villageeye.co.uk

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eye Community News

IT’S A TEAM EFFORT OVER THE HILL... AND STILL WALKING Rosemary Harle, a local fundraiser for St Michael’s Hospice has registered a Team – “Over the Hill . . . and Still Walking” - to raise as much money as possible for the Hospice.

As many of you will know, the Hospice receives less than 20% of their funding from the NHS and need to raise £5.5m each year to continue to operate in our community. This last year has been very difficult for the Hospice as, of course, many of their fund raising events have been cancelled due to the Covid Pandemic. Now we’re back into more normal times it is important to try and raise as much money as possible so that the Hospice can continue to maintain their wonderful support, care and services for the benefit of us all.

If you would like to be part of Rosemary at a previou s fundraiser the Team – either as a walker, a sponsor, or would just like to spread the word – please check out: www.stmichaelshospice.org.uk/event/moonlight-walk To register as a walker on this team, please go to the website and click onto “Sign up for the Moonlight Walk!”. Don’t forget to enter our Team name.

Rosemary told us, “I’m hoping that the “Over the Hill . . . and Still Walking” Team will have lots of fun together while raising as much money as we can for a really good cause.”

Thanks to a grant from Berkshire Community Foundation, the Five a Day Market Garden in Englefield is able to offer free weekly gardening sessions to anyone who has suffered during the pandemic, whether mentally or physically.

FIVE A DAY OFFERS FREE GARDENING THERAPY

Gardening is known for its therapeutic benefits so if you have felt stressed or lonely over recent months, why not give it a try? You can learn about growing and harvesting vegetables and flowers while you relax in the peaceful garden. Learning a new skill can help to restore your confidence and you get to meet new people in a small, supportive group of all ages. The sessions take place every Wednesday until October from 10am - 12 or from 1-3pm. There is no obligation to attend every week, so why not give them a call on 07555 184343 or email: info@fiveaday.org.uk and book a trial session?

WHO WILL WIN

BURGHFIELD IN BLOOM?

Coming out of winter lockdowns hasn’t been easy, but our daily walks have taught us to love the nature on our doorstep.

Finally summer has arrived! Burghfield in Bloom invites both young and old to enjoy some gardening therapy this summer and, in the process, gift our beautiful village some beautiful colours, smells, textures and flowers.

So what better way to cheer us up on our daily walks than with a Burghfield in Bloom competition? So, if you have marvellous marrows, sensational sunflowers or simply a gorgeous garden, get entering! The competition is open now and the deadline for 2021entries is Tuesday 31st August 2021.

There will be a 1st prize in each category decided by a small panel of local judges and you can find all the categories and information on how to enter by searching ‘Burghfield in Bloom’ on Facebook.

5 DON’T MISS OUT! FOLLOW US NOW

17th & 18th July, Dinton Pastures

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t’s now only a few weeks until Marvellous Festival returns (hoorah) to Dinton Pastures Country Park.

And, if you haven’t got your tickets yet, they are selling fast, so be quick!

Marvellous News…

Government Even after the on 14th June nt me ce announ

!!We Can Still Go Ahead !!

AZING TRIBUTES

H 13 AM OD H FABULOUS FO LLS H BARS & STA H GLAMPING H CAMPING H 2 STAGES AGE H BIG KIDS VILL CTIVITIES H FREE KIDS A MUSIC H SUPERB LIVE IANT H COVID COMPL

After a year off for reasons beyond everyone’s control, the Marvellous family are chomping at the bit to bring you the country’s longest running, most popular tribute festival - for the 18th time!

This year’s Marvellous is set to take place over the weekend of 17th & 18th July and promises no fewer than 13 world-class tribute acts on the main stage, plus the Wokingham Music Club stage featuring a plethora of unsigned local talent. This year you will be right royally entertained by tributes to Queen, Coldplay, ELO, Fleetwood Mac, T-Rex, Ed Sheeran, Tina Turner and more! And, as an extra special treat, prepare to funk it up (a lot) on the Saturday night with Uncle Funk’s Disco Inferno, one of the world’s most explosive party funk bands.

Beginning its life in 2003, Marvellous was the first festival of its kind and, to this day, remains the biggest and best. It is fiercely proud of its reputation, offering families the opportunity to experience a full-on festival atmosphere in a safe and

friendly environment. What’s not to like?

Kids of all ages will find plenty to do with fabulous fairground rides on tap plus loads of free activities in the Big Kids’ Village - including arts and crafts, games and face-painting... It’s all going on, and more attractions are yet to be announced.

There’s something very special about Marvellous. Each year the festival welcomes groups and families (some have even been coming since the beginning). With prepaid parking at only £5 per car per day, or a short walk from Winnersh Train station, The festival is easily accessible for everyone.

With on site bars, food stalls and traders that are very competitively priced, the festival offers both day and weekend tickets, complete with camping and glamping packages.

In our experience, the best way to enjoy the full Marvellous experience is to do the whole weekend under canvas! If you’re planning a staycation this summer, then this is the perfect low-cost family getaway (without having to travel too far!)

Look forward to seeing you later in July…

FOR TICKETS VISIT

www.marvellousfesitvals.com

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Saturday 17th July

Sunday 18th July

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Teeth ng Whiteni

Now that we can finally see each other without a mask (at a two metre distance of course) many of us may have become mouth conscious. We all know that brushing and flossing every day is the best way to keep your mouth healthy. Still, if you feel like your smile is lacking some sparkle or is more yellow than it used to be, you are not alone and there are so many ways to get back your pearly whites!

So how does teeth whitening actually work?

Teeth have an outer layer, otherwise known as enamel; over time it is worn away or stained by things like sugary drinks, red wine or tobacco products causing the teeth to appear more yellowish. The most common chemical found in whitening products is Hydrogen peroxide; this essentially breaks down the stains on your teeth. But over bleaching can lead to sensitivity and gum problems so it’s vital that you speak to your dentist and do it safely.

Cost friendly & Quick

Teeth whitening strips are super easy and are quite gentle on your gums. All you do is place them on your teeth and leave them for 15-30 minutes, and then you take them out, brush your teeth and you should start to see results after 3-4 uses.

Teeth whitening won’t work on everybody so I would recommend speaking to your dentist before you do anything, most practices do offer teeth whitening professionally, but it comes at a higher cost than the other methods but is worth it for your confidence.

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A more efficient way…

There are many brands that offer at home whitening pens or trays for your teeth that are accompanied with an LED light to speed up the process. The idea is that you fill the tray with the peroxide based gel and let sit in your mouth for however long is recommended.

Over-the-counter products, such as Crest Whitestrips, work fine, but they usually only whiten the front 6 teeth. In the UK, overthe-counter products should contain no more than 0.1% hydrogen peroxide, while the legal, safe limit for application by professional dentists is 16%.

My advice is to always do your research, check peroxide percentages. Any higher than 16% (there are some UK sites offering products as high as 35%) and you risk causing damage to your gums! Always follow instructions and if the product you’re looking at offers you a permanent ‘quick fix’, the chances are, the high chemical levels may do you more harm than good.

Here are a couple of options to help you smile confidently again…

Bug x

To get in touch, email me at amelia@villageeye.co.uk

Bug’s Beauty

Too hot for curry?

Get a Buddy’s INDIAN BBQ Box instead!

We were pleased to hear that Buddy’s BBQ Boxes are back on the menu at Burgfield Spices for 2021.

Last summer, after a special customer request and testing the idea with locals, restaurant owner Buddy added a selection of ready-to-cook summer Indian BBQ fayre to his already popular and diverse menu.

He told us, the demand for curry dips slightly during the hot weather and everyone loves a BBQ, so marrying the British love of Indian food and a good old BBQ has been a real hit.

Freshly prepared to order, and marinaded in the same way that you’d expect from one of their legendry curries, his BBQ selection includes favourites such as Chicken Tikka, Murgh Nazakat, Tandoori Chicken, Sheek Kebabs, Chicken Wings, Lamb Chops and Poneer Tikka.

Available individually or as a standard mixed or customised box, as a gauge, a standard box will cost just £30 and will feed four people.

Boxes can be ordred for collection or delivery.

For a full menu or to make an order, visit www.burghfieldspices.co.uk/bbq-menu or call 0118 983 4040

There when it matters Alexandra is a palliative care nurse at Sue Ryder Duchess of Kent Hospice in Reading, where she provides specialist care to people living with life-limiting conditions, as well as supporting their families.

She is sharing her story in the hope of inspiring others to follow a career in palliative care.

“When I first joined the team at Sue Ryder Duchess of Kent Hospice I was working as a nursing assistant. In that role you are usually the first person a patient sees when they come into the hospice and you take care of their physical, psychological and emotional needs, as well as supporting their family. You spend the most time with them and hear all their stories, but you’re also there with them through the crises, the heartaches and sometimes the pain.

Now working as a palliative care nurse I provide the same care, but I’m more involved in pain relief, symptom management and helping our patients to be more comfortable. We are a big team at the hospice and we work in partnership to provide all the support people and their families need at a difficult time.

It’s a privilege to care for people who are coming to the end of their life. You give a lot, but you receive so much more in return. Even if you work from dusk to dawn and you are exhausted at the end of the day, you’re somehow ‘full’. You see so much love, even if it’s with suffering, and you see compassion and goodness. It’s a lovely place to work, especially for personal growth as you learn so much from your patients and you see life from a different perspective.

The outbreak of COVID-19 has led to some changes in the way hospice staff work, but we are all continuing to do everything we can to provide expert and compassionate palliative care despite the challenges caused by the pandemic.”

Sue Ryder Duchess of Kent Hospice, rated ‘outstanding’ by the Care Quality Commission, is currently recruiting registered nurses to provide high quality, specialist end-of-life care on its inpatient unit in Reading. For further information on vacancies, please email recruitment@sueryder.org or visit sueryder.org/jobs

To contribute, advertise or let us know your news please call 0118 933 3311 or email hello@villageeye.co.uk

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The moment you realise your competition is posting on EVERY DIGITAL platform you are.

Stay ahead of the pack and advertise with us

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hello@villageeye.co.uk www.villageeye.co.uk

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B UNCEth us!

BACK wi ))

eye azine

Read. Retained. Trusted.

THE AREA’S FAVOURITE LOCAL MONTHLY MAGAZINE

EACH MONTH WE DELIVER DOOR TO DOOR TO 11,500 HOMES & BUSINESSES IN:

Burghfield Common | Burghfield Village | Beech Hill | Mortimer | Theale | Brimpton | Silchester | Sulhamstead Midgham| Ufton Nervet | Aldermaston | Padworth | Pamber Heath | Tadley | Baughurst | Woolhampton | Bramley

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AND 18,000 HOMES & BUSINESSES IN

Lower Earley | Earley | Shinfield | Three Mile Cross | Riseley | Ryeish Green | Spencers Wood | Swallowfield

Art Exhibition

with local artists Sandi Smithers & Sue Phillips

Enjoy an afternoon of Paintings, Prints, Cards and Photography, have a glass of wine or a cuppa and perhaps even buy something that takes your fancy!

This lovely Charity Art Exhibition is taking place at Silchester Village Hall on Saturday 10th July, 11am5pm. the two charities being supported are Charity (Adventure) Links who grant money to small, not-forprofit charities for East African children’s education, and Living Paintings who produce tactile books for the blind and partially sighted.

Padworth Craft Show and Family Fun Day Craft, Produce, Family Fun Day and Dog Show all in one!

Outside children’s rides, face painting, ice creams, craft stalls, arena events, jazz band, beer and cider tent, tea tent, Shane and Alex Entertainment, Champagne draw & Dog Show for Pedigree and Novelty classes.

Sunday 4th July

Alpaca Winners!

We recently received these lovely images from Rachel James, the lucky winner of our Mortimer Alpaca experience. Rachel told us that they really enjoyed spending time getting to know these little cuties. If you’d like to find out more about Mortimer Alpacas, visit www.mortimer-alpacas.co.uk

eye

Winners!

M

07940 785472

To contribute, advertise or let us know your news please call 0118 933 3311 or email hello@villageeye.co.uk

Follow us to keep updated, locally

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WIN

A SEVEN COURSE TASTING MENU FOR TWO & A GLASS OF FIZZ ON ARRIVAL

L’Ortolan

E

ver thought about relaxing in stylish and comfortable surroundings and enjoying exquisite contemporary French cuisine, exceptional service and a warm welcome?

In addition to their regular fine dining experience, L’Ortolan are also offering their Menu Gourmand, a seven or ten course lunch/ dinner which promises to take your taste buds on an amazing culinary journey!

As proud holders of one Michelin star and three AA rosettes, L’Ortolan is also in the Top 20 on the Sunday Times Best UK Restaurants list!

Dining at L’Ortolan costs less than you’d expect too.

With mains from their A la Carte menu starting at just £16, and desserts from £14, check out all of their menus at www.lortolan.com

Finally, after five long months, the time has come for L’Ortolan to open their doors and welcome their guests once more.

Offering some of the most delectable dishes & wines in the area, the fine dining house of legends keeps impressing all that dine within with creativity and delight. Despite his young age, the Head Chef keeps on proving his impressive cooking skills time & time again. L’Ortolan’s James Greatorex creates delightful combinations by bringing together the seasons freshest ingredients, from Cornish Crab, Jersey Royale potatoes, freshest Gariguette Strawberries as well as finishing on various herbs directly from their very own garden.

eye Win!

Village Eye and L’Ortolan have teamed up to give one lucky reader the chance of winning a voucher for two (with a glass of fizz) to experience their Menu Gourmand. Entry to the competition is free and remember, one of you WILL WIN! Please see the entry details below.

HOW TO ENTER

To be in with a chance of winning this fantastic prize, simply go to

villageeye.co.uk click the competition tab and answer the following question:

L’Ortolan’s Seven Course Tasting Menu is called:

a: Menu Gourmand b: Menu Gordon c: Menu Gorgeous Entries must be made by midnight on Saturday 31st July. The winner will be notified on Monday 2nd August. Full terms & conditions at www.villageeye.co.uk

To contribute, advertise or let us know your news please call 0118 933 3311 or email hello@villageeye.co.uk

Follow us to keep updated, locally

13

M

ichelle Jordan’s voice has graced our local airwaves for more than a decade now, first on the much-loved Heart Radio breakfast show, better known as ‘Matt & Michelle’ and more recently on her BBC Radio Berkshire evening show.

But where did Michelle come from and how did she get to be a prime time radio presenter?

Believe it or not, Michelle started her working life as a residential social worker for adults with learning difficulties. At the time, she lived over in Bedfordshire. It was a stressful but rewarding job and when it started to get too much, Michelle ‘just decided’ to try a career in radio.

She always had the radio on in the car and loved the laughs and the banter that the presenters and production team had, so she decided that if she was going to make a career change that radio would be a good choice.

Michelle told us, “I didn’t have any ambition to be a presenter.

I had no training or production skills, but I thought I would try to get in the door as an administrator.” So she wrote to the radio station asking for volunteer posts.

Five letters later (!)

Michelle finally got a phone call from the

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manager of Chiltern Radio. He asked her when she was going to stop writing in. Her answer was simple “When you reply and invite me in for a chat”.

With that, she was invited in for a coffee and a chat - followed by the offer of a job!

Michelle’s first role in radio was at Chiltern Radio as member of the weekend ‘Black Thunder Crew’. The team drove around the local area in mega branded Vauxhall Fronteras visiting shopping centres to do promotional work with occasional live links back to the studio.

Michelle was still a full time social worker at this point and she juggled both jobs for two years until her boss called her into the office to talk about a trial as the travel presenter for breakfast and drive.

The Black Thunder Crew work had shown just how easily Michelle could strike up a rapport with listeners and becoming ‘Travel Babs’ (Babs is her nickname) doing traffic and travel every fifteen minutes showed that all over again. They even had ‘Travel Babs’ pens and T-shirts made which were given away to listeners!

Eventually, her bosses at the station asked her to co-host the regular Breakfast Show with Gaz Wesley, so Michelle was finally able to leave her job in social care and take a permanent role at the radio station,

although she did take a pay cut to do it.

So there she was, presenting the breakfast show for five years with no qualifications in radio or production whatsoever!

Michelle told us, “I felt like a fraud, but you know what they say, ‘Fake it ‘til you make it!’ ”

Five years on and Chiltern Radio became Heart Radio, having been bought by Global, and they asked Michelle to come to Reading to breathe new life into the Breakfast Show there, presenting alongside Matt Brown from Fox FM. So in 2010, ‘Matt and Michelle’ was born and despite Michelle’s protests that she will never do a breakfast show again due to the horrific 04:15am starts, it really was a hugely popular show and when its end was announced in May 2019 there was a public outcry.

Michelle told us,”Being made redundant in the public eye really was awful. It was a horrible time.”

But when one door closes, another one opens and Michelle was snapped up by the BBC, presenting shows on BBC Radio Wiltshire, BBC Radio Oxford and, a hugely popular regular week night show at BBC Radio Berkshire which is celebrating its second birthday this month.

eye

e e l l l e e h h c c i i M M MJJicohroerdlldaeann Jordan Celebrity

And, of course, those who already listen regularly will know that Eye magazine’s editor, Hellen, has a regular slot on Michelle’s Thursday night show called ‘Eye on the Weekend: Out Out Guide’. Hellen gives listeners an overview of activities and events taking place across Berkshire over the coming weekend and it’s been a real hit with audiences.

Michelle told us, “It’s rather ironic that I’m working at the BBC.

eye on the weekend:

Going

Out Out

guide

THURSDAY EVENINGS BBC BERKSHIRE

eye

Years ago, I was asked in to have a chat with ‘BBC Three Counties Radio’ and was told that I couldn’t work for the BBC because I didn’t have a degree in the right area. It just goes to show how things change. Right now, I’m involved in the BBC New Talent scheme. The BBC are now actively seeking fresh, emerging talent, regardless of background, education, accent…all the things that may have previously held people back. The BBC used to be known for being stuffy but those days are definitely gone. I ate cat food on my show last week!”

So what’s next for Michelle? She’s certainly in a happy place right now but when we pressed her, she revealed,”I wouldn’t mind a cheeky little mid-morning radio show, or drive-time would be nice!”

Let’s see what the future holds! Happy ‘workivarsay’ and good luck, Michelle!

You can listen to Michelle Jordan Mon-Thurs on BBC Radio Berkshire from 18:00-22:00

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APPS YOU WISH

Load Dishwasher = 1/2 mile

EXISTED

BUT DON’T By Eye Geek

Parent Uber

No matter how many apps you download, there’s still a void that can’t be filled (even if the storage on your smartphone is dangerously close to full.) That empty space is for the apps that we wish existed but, try as we might, we can’t actually find in the App Store or the Play Store. Everybody has their own app wish list. But the fictional apps here are ones I’d be

by Karen Hartshorn particularly eager to download if they ever become a reality PARENT UBER

If you’re a parent, you’ll have realised by now that you’re a glorified walking wallet and free taxi service. An app in which your children could do chores, log them and earn parent uber credits would make the Saturday night late pick up from their friends a bit more palatable.

Yes. we know you won’t have had the opportunity for a beer all evening, but at least you’ve relaxed in a tidy house.

THE APP THAT DELETES YOU FROM OTHER PEOPLE'S PHONES Have an acquaintance or two whom you regret giving your phone number?

Usually there’s not much recourse except to put up with their occasional text messages, or to block them altogether, which feels pretty harsh.

This app will easily and painlessly rid you of communication from unwanted contacts by surreptitiously deleting your number from their phone.

REMEMBERING PEOPLE'S NAMES

Pause and think about this for a second. How good are you at remembering the names of people you see once or twice a year? Can you recall how you know these people and instantly summon a suitable topic of conversation? We thought not. So you need an app that can identify all of the people at a company get together or other obligatory function and remind you of their names. The app can also remind you of where and with whom these people work, and what boring things you talked about the last time you saw them.

APPSOLUTE APP

Whilst some efforts have been made by developers to create an app to store important personal data in one place, nobody has quite mastered a complete ‘Catch-all’. Imagine being able to access your driving license, passport, insurance, vehicle details, utilities, mortgage and important renewal reminders at the swipe of a screen. Using facial recognition, security and encryption would be the key to its success. Think of it as a mini mobile version of a home filing cabinet!

16

To contribute, advertise or let us know your news please call 0118 933 3311 or email hello@villageeye.co.uk

ANTI PROCRASTINATION APP

Need to stop procrastinating at the office or when you’re doing your homework? Then you’ve probably figured out existing time management apps probably don’t cut it.

So you need an app that stops procrastination by sounding a loud alarm every time you open Facebook, Minecraft, Instagram on your phone, or each time you stray from work-approved apps on your computer. The only way to shut off the obnoxious alarm? Getting back to work.

GET ON WITH IT!

AN APP THAT CREATES MORE HOURS IN THE DAY OK, THAT'S PUSHING IT.

Follow us to keep updated, locally

35

ONLINE & VIDEO Mortimer CONSULTATIONS

AVAILABLE NOW Physiotherapy practice

BACK OR NECK PAIN? SPORTS INJURIES? MUSCLE/TENDON STRAIN? POST OPERATIVE REHABILITATION? * NHS referrals are accepted from all West Berkshire GPs - just ask!

ONLINE & VIDEO CONSULTATIONS AVAILABLE NOW

Tel: 0118 933 3896 Text: 07951 840643

www.mortimerphysio.co.uk info@mortimerphysio.co.uk

ESTABLISHED FOR 20 YEARS, YOUR LOCAL PRIVATE PHYSIOTHERAPY CLINIC.

need Dentures? we can help!

h a V om va is e ila its bl e

Burghfield Dental Care

Missing Something?

Dental Implants

at affordable prices Free assesments are available, just ask.

Paul Moorcroft, a clinical dental technologist.

Paul has over 39 years of experience in providing new dentures and denture repairs.

• Professional Advice • Dentures • Partial Dentures • Denture Repairs • Suction Dentures

Also available:

Teeth Whitening Teeth Straightening Facial Rejuvenation 0118 983 3563 www.burghfielddental.co.uk

Burghfield Dental Care

To make an appointment please call:

0118 930 3965

Teeth Whitening | Veneers | Crowns | Bridges | Dentures Botox | Fillers | lmplants | Invisible Orthodontic Braces

www.abacusdentalstudio.co.uk

Abacus Dental Studio | Ground Floor | 15 High Street | Theale | RG7 5AH

8

Tarragon Way, Burghfield Common Reading, Berkshire RG717 3YU

“Lafford & Leavey, experts in bringing the outside - inside”

Windows - Doors -Conservatories UPVC or Timber

One of the leading window, door and conservatory installers in Berkshire, offering free quotations and advice from a company with a formidable reputation spanning 50 years. Choose from a wide range of products in a style and finish which will suit your budget and needs, we are only a phone call away.

LAFFORD & LEAVEY LTD ARROWHEAD ROAD, THEALE, READING, RG7 4AZ Tel: Reading (0118) 9303333 Fax: (0118) 9323707 Email: lafford.leavey@btconnect.com

18

eye siness local bu

First Rate Mechanical Services can help

Keep your

COOL This Summer

M

any of us have been eager for those long, hot summer days to arrive, but when they do, we remember the downsides - uncomfortably hot days and humid, sticky nights.

First Rate Mechanical Services has the solution to our over-heating woes.

They have been planning, fitting and maintaining air conditioning systems for over twenty years, so they really know a thing or two about keeping cool.

There are many benefits to having air conditioning. If you’ve been sat on the fence, trying to decide whether or not to invest in an air conditioning system for the home or office, consider this: Being in a constant high-temperature can impact your health - dehydration, nausea and even low blood pressure - which can be quite serious. Being hot can also make you tired and we all know that when we’re tired, we’re much less productive.

But most importantly - the number one in most people’s book - a proper air con system - will mean that you get a proper night’s sleep. No more tossing and turning and waking up exhausted.

First Rate Mechanical Services’ team of installers, mechanical engineers and service engineers provide a complete package from planning and installation through to regular servicing. And it’s not just homes that the team make cooler. They install air conditioning and ventilation systems in laboratories, offices and retail units, as well as homes!

So think again before you dig out the electric fans from the garage or start spraying sheets with cold water before bed this summer (both well-used techniques for staying cool at night). There is clearly another way and there’s no denying that this team really know what they’re doing.

And, of course, they need to! All the engineers are f-gas certified and they have all completed mechanical apprenticeships and undergone all the necessary training to be fully competent and qualified in the mechanical sector, too.

With First Rate Mechanical Services, you are in safe, experienced hands and you even get a seven year warranty on parts for peace of mind.

So whether you have some questions or you need a quote, do get in touch.

Design Installation Service

Pay only 5% VAT on Domestic Installations

The team works right across the South East and beyond, so anyone reading Eye magazine will be on their patch and they are keen to help.

• • • • • • • • • • •

•

Air Conditioning Services Domestic & commercial Design, installation, Service 5% VAT on Domestic Installations Fgas registered Fully insured Smart phone control via app Heating & Cooling A*** energy efficiency Up to 7 years warranty Partner installers of Mitsubishi Electric, Daikin & Panasonic air conditioning Free quotations

Keep your cool this summer!

Please call 0118 343 3814 if you would like to discuss a new project including new air conditioner installation, service or repair.

www.firstratemechanicalservices.co.uk

19

Stylish Summer

stay

cation Hello July With Summer now in full effect, we’re wondering what the best way to breathe that summer air into your home and garden is. Summer aesthetics can often be thought to revolve around flower arrangements and vibrant colours, but we’ve thought of some other ways to let the season shine in your home and garden that don’t have to overpower your household.

light and bright When it comes to the bigger picture, keeping it light and bright with white is a beautiful way to help open up your home and give it a bigger and more summery feel. With a blank canvas, you’re free to experiment with amazing colour and patterns within the smaller details.

Home

withHolly Roll in, roll out bar kart Throughout lockdown, we saw a rise in the home bar and were also amazed by it. This summer, we’re saying turn it up a notch and create or buy your own rolling bar kart. This is perfect for an evening entertainment night, with the booze on an easily accessible kart. This can also be spiced up by adding your own touch, using plants/flowers and general home décor to include in your movable liquor bar. If this idea inspires you we would love to see your own creations so don’t forget to tag us in your pictures on Insta: Villageeyemag

20

To contribute, advertise or let us know your news please call 0118 933 3311 or email hello@villageeye.co.uk

Follow us to keep updated, locally

Lighting with lanterns Fairy lights and lanterns have always been a fabulous way to add a touch of wonder to your house or garden.

So this summer is perfect opportunity to use beautifully decorated lanterns and fairy lights to add a magical touch to your outside living.

A fruit bowl finish Keeping it light and bright is very on trend at the moment, but if you feel you need a touch of colour with minimal effort, a decorative fruit bowl is a great way to go.

Bringing the outside in After a year of lockdown, we’re all craving the outside and so investing in a small or large outside area is great way to feel zen in your own home while still breathing in that fresh air.

Curtis Lawns & Gardens are great at creating amazing outdoor spaces.

Find them on Facebook: CurtisLandG1

cushion comforts Who says cushions should be boring?’ They are a really inexpensive way of reflecting the seasons.

A bit like a spring or summer wardrobe, you can change your look by accessorising accordingly.

Spencers Wood

Handsome Victorian Home This magnificent 4 bedroom home has been extended and greatly improved by the current owners. Situated amongst beautiful gardens approaching a quarter of an acre and offering excellent privacy.

Dressing room to main bedroom 2 bathrooms 4 receptions Fitted kitchen/breakfast room Utility and cloakroom No onward chain EPC rating D

£1,000,000 guide Bramley 5 Bedroom countryside residence This lovely 5 bedroom detached home sits on a mature plot of over half an acre and is offered for sale with no onward chain.

Living room Study/family room Open plan kitchen and dining room Utility and cloakroom Garage and outbuilding No onward chain EPC rating D

£920,000 Contact our Mortimer office: phone: 0118 467 7999 email: mortimer@davidcliff.com visit: davidcliff.com

22

A selected member of The Guild of Property Professionals

Offices also at Wokingham, Binfield and Park Lane, London

what’s

Property of the month

new Mortimer

Stunning Family Home Built to exacting standards= this detached 4 double bedroom, 3 bathroom home is only one of a pair built in the centre of the village.

£699,000

Mortimer Extended character cottage

• Circa 120ft rear garden • Opposite woodland • EPC rating D

Burghfield Common Ready to move

Shinfield No onward chain

£485,000 • 3 bedrooms • 3 receptions • Kitchen/breakfast room

Central village location Lounge + study Kitchen/dining room Garage and parking West facing garden Garden office EPC rating B

£455,000 • Shinfield • No onward chain • 3 bedrooms

• 2 receptions • 2 bathrooms • Fitted kitchen

Mortimer Village Life

Mortimer Contemporary Apartment

£385,000 • 3 bedrooms • 2 receptions • Kitchen

• Bathroom • Attached garage • EPC rating C

Got a property to let?

Talk to us now

landlords & tenants £170,000

£265,000 • Gated development • Open plan living • Beautiful fitted kitchen

• Two double bedrooms • Walk to the station • EPC rating D

• Double bedroom • Kitchen • Living room

• Parking • Communal gardens • EPC rating C

• Personal • Professional • Thorough

• Attentive • Detailed • Unique

23

Pink Pages: Trades & Services

James W Fisher Property Maintenance

PAINTING & DECORATING All interior and exterior decorating, carpentry and small building work.

25 years experience.

CONTACT JAMES TODAY FOR A FREE QUOTATION. No job too small:

OFFICE: 01189 831246 Mobile: 07766 646430 Email: info@jwfisher.co.uk www.jameswfisher.co.uk The Forge, Reading Road, Burghfield Common, Reading, Berkshire, RG7 3BL

Registered office: Field Close, Burghfield Common

Short & long term secure storage for home or business Open 7 days a week 8am – 8pm Easy access, all on one level Security alarms, CCTV cameras and 24 hr surveillance 0118 988 0788 e: tadley@barn-store.co.uk

www.barn-store.co.uk 24

11,500 copies, 17 local villages, estimated 32,000 readers - monthly!

To advertise HERE, call 0118 933 3311

eye

Sue Ryder Duchess of Kent Hospice

Can you help us fill a room with love?

We all go through loss at some point, and Sue Ryder’s expert care can leave families free to focus on what’s really important at the end of someone’s life – love.

Please donate today: sueryder.org/fillaroom Sue Ryder is a charity registered in England and Wales (1052076) and in Scotland (SCO39578). Ref. No. 07306. © Sue Ryder. June 2021.

07306 - Q1 Press Ads_Village_Eye_210x148mm_v2.indd 1

11/06/2021 09:42

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

DESIGNED FOR YOU NEW BUILDS EXTENSIONS PROPERTY RENOVATIONS KITCHENS AND BATHROOMS DISABILITY ADAPTATIONS COMMERCIAL BUILDING WORKS LOFT CONVERSION and much more....

Contact us now for an estimate...

07500 888164

info.ajtgroupservices@gmail.com www.ajtgroupservices.co.uk

Please mention Village Eye when responding to adverts.

25

Pink Pages: Trades & Services

• • • • • • • •

Professional certificated arborists.

25 years experience.

Fully insured.

Free quotations and advise.

25 years no claims.

All types of tree work and hedge work .

All types of tree planting.

All types of commercial and domestic in fencing.

Tel: 0118 970 0525 Mob: 07414 793015 Email: nasharbltd@gmail.com www.nasharborists.co.uk

jon@thealegas.co.uk /Thealegas @ThealeGas

Accredited Installer

07979 542998

COMING SOON NEW ANNUAL HEATING SERVICE PLAN

If you urgently need a Gas or Heating Engineer in Berkshire, look no further than Theale Gas.

www.thealegas.co.uk 26

11,500 copies, 17 local villages, estimated 32,000 readers - monthly!

To advertise HERE, call 0118 933 3311

CALL US NOW ON 0118 3801544 07972189648 info@combatpestsolutions.com

combatpestsolutions.com

NEED A NEW BOILER?

eye

TADLEY HEATING SERVICES

EXPERIENCED SER VICE AT COMPE TITIVE RATES New Boiler Supply & Installation All new gas boiler installations performed to the manufacturers instructions.

Boiler Repair If your boiler or central heating is not working we can assess and repair it using top quality branded parts and components.

Boiler Servicing Using state of the art combustion analysers we can service your boiler and help you comply with all necessary gas safety regulations.

CRAWLING PESTS RODENTS Bed Bug Control Mice Control Flea Treatment Rat Control Cockroach Control Squirrel Control Ant Treatment Spider Control OUR SERVICES Silverfish Treatment Woodworm Treatment COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL

FLYING PESTS Moth Control Wasp Control Bird Control Fly Control Carpet Beetle

OTHER SERVICES Heat Treatment Fogging Services Dead Animal Removal

Call Phil Capel on:

07760 759318 0118 466 1235 19 Hamble Drive , Tadley, Hampshire, RG26 3UN

ths.ltd@outlook.com /tadleyheatingservices

COVID-19 - SAFEGUARDING CUSTOMERS & COLLEAGUES

FREE*

Georgia toilet & basin with every bathroom order

Bathing a problem? – we can help • Wet rooms • Walk in showers and baths • Waterproof wall panelling • Slip resistant safety flooring • Grab rails, shower seats & raised toilets • Automatic bidet loos • Disabled Facilities Grants • Discounts for over 60s and EX Service personnel Call for friendly advice and free survey and quote

01189 111 062

www.ahminstallations.co.uk

Terms and conditions apply, visit our website for more details.

*

Village 105x148.indd 1

30/11/2020 08:02

Please mention Village Eye when responding to adverts.

27

Pink Pages: Trades & Services

ASHLEYS

ASHLEYS

REMOVALS & STORAGE 0118 983 1311

REMOVALS & STORAGE BIG ENOUGH TO COPE BUT SMALL ENOUGH TO CARE

CALL YOUR LOCAL REMOVALS COMPANY ON

0118 983 1311

07850 738950 or 0778 7535014 PACKING - STORAGE - REMOVALS - RELOCATIONS - PIANOS

ASHLEYSREMOVALS@BTCONNECT.COM WWW.ASHLEYSREMOVALSANDSTORAGE-READING.CO.UK

OKEElectrical

All aspects of electr ical work from a light switc h to a complete rewire

Fully insured • Fully qualified • Pa rt P complia nt

d . o k e @ m e . c o m w w w. o ke e l e c t ri c a l . c o . u k

0 7 7 6 9 0 1 1 8 9

5 5 6 8 5 2 3 3 2 8 6 7

Berkshire Design Build Ltd

& telephone: 07836 751 072

email: davidling007@sky.com | 31 Longworth Avenue, Tilehurst, RG31 5JU

www.trustedtraders.which.co.uk/businesses/berkshire-design-build-ltd 28

11,500 copies, 17 local villages, estimated 32,000 readers - monthly!

To advertise HERE, call 0118 933 3311

eye

DO YOU DREAM OF A NEW KITCHEN?

QUALITY KITCHEN MAKEOVERS BY LOCAL PROFESSIONALS

by simply replacing the doors and worktops THE UK’S # 1 KITCHEN MAKEOVER EXPERTS.

• Trusted reputation

EST. 1999

• Huge choice of doors, worktops appliances, sinks & taps • Free planning & design service • Door swaps to full kitchens – tailored to your needs

RE

BEFO

Covid-19 - Our showroom is open on an appointment only basis. Home appointments are available on request. Social distancing & hygiene regulations are implemented in our showroom, on appointments and during installations. ®

Social icon

Rounded square Only use blue and/or white.

For more details check out our Brand Guidelines.

AVERAGE SCORE

9.98/10

www.dreamdoors.co.uk

Visit our Showroom: 86-88 Chapel Street, Thatcham, Berks EST.RG18 19994QN Free Parking VISIT at rearOUR SHOWROOM NOW. CALL LESLEY FOR A FREE ESTIMATE ON:

01635 867336

Miles & Daughters Funeral Directors Serving Tadley and surrounding areas

Roller Garage Doors Centre

Fitting Garage Doors since 1995

✓✓Visit our showroom or request a home visit ✓✓We provide our own professional engineers ✓✓Fully insulated 7 YEAR ✓✓Custom made & British built MOTOR WARRANTY ✓✓Free no obligation quotations ✓✓Best Price Guarantee ✓✓Free 7 year motor warranty ✓✓A huge range of styles and colours ✓✓Police secured by design and insurance approved option available

FREE

info@rollergaragedoorscentre.co.uk

T. 0118 981 7300 Roller Garage Doors Centre (Part of Access and Security Systems Ltd)

Manufactured by SWS UK

www.rollergaragedoorscentre.co.uk Showroom: Unit 7 Bacchus House, Calleva Park, Aldermaston, Berkshire, RG7 8EN

Miles & Daughters Funeral Directors are here to support and guide you.

We offer a friendly, professional service to families.

Tadley

0118 391 3575 5 Old Forge, Heath End Road, Baughurst, RG26 5LX

Call us for immediate support, advice or to arrange a home visit. We are here to help 24 hours a day.

Geoff Church, Business Principal & Funeral Director

• • • • • • • •

24-hour service Bereavement advice Transparent pricing Private chapel of rest Floral tributes Memorial masonry Home visits Prepaid funeral plans

www.milesfunerals.com Funeral homes also in Winnersh, Reading, Twyford, Binfield, Crowthorne & Maidenhead.

Please mention Village Eye when responding to adverts.

29

Pink Pages: Trades & Services MTJ PLASTERING We’ll get rid of unsightly ceilings & walls With more than 20 years of experience, you can expect the highest standards and an excellent finish every time.

Class IV Testing Station

Servicing • Repairs • 4 Wheel Alignment 4 Better Fuel • Tyres• Safety

Operating Throughout Lockdown FREE Collection & Delivery

Whether you're looking for a newly plastered ceiling or external rendering, we provide a wide range of plastering services.

To request a free quote, or to discuss your requirements, contact us today. We'll be happy to help.

11 New Street | Strafield Saye | RG7 2EN

All Makes & Models

www.mtjplastering.co.uk info@mtjplastering.co.uk

07789 902 091 0118 933 2121

MOTs

Brakes

FREE: Headlamp Alignment FREE: Bulb Fitting

Batteries Exhausts

FREE: Wiper Blade Fitting

-�

FREE: Number Plate Fitting FREE: Retests FREE: Shock Absorber Test

a■aa■ NO CRAFTY EXTRAS

Warning Lights on? - We Provide Full Diagnostics Complete Bathroom & Kitchen Installation An independent family owned and run business with almost 30 years of experience of delivering the highest level of craftmanship for the supply, installation and design of quality kitchens,bathrooms, ensuite bathrooms and wet rooms in North Hampshire and West Berkshire.

aFree Design & Consultation aDisability Bathrooms - Our speciality a Highly trained, qualified craftsmen Call in or contact us, we are happy to help and give our expert advice

18b Mulfords Hill, Tadley, Hampshire RG26 3JE

0118 981 3777 tadleybathrooms@aol.com www.tadleybathrooms.co.uk

30

11,500 copies, 17 local villages, estimated 32,000 readers - monthly!

Call us today!

ADVERTISE IN, OR SEND FLYERS OUT WITH THIS MAGAZINE IN AUGUST.

FROM £55

*

Our two magazines cover 29,500 homes with an estimated readership of 47,000 each month.

To find out more please get in touch!

0118 933 3311 hello@villageeye.co.uk

*Dependent on availability and area selected

eye

To advertise HERE, call 0118 933 3311

TREE SERVICES

. Tree removal

. Tree felling

. Crown lift

. Hedge trimming

. Crown reduction . Tree thinning . Pollarding

. Stump grinding

. Domestic & commercial . 15 Years Experience

Fully insured and fully qualified

FULLY INSURED AND FULLY QUALIFIED

a FREE quote,please please contact us: us: For a For FREE quote, contact

0118 304 07702 0118 9017214 7970 - - 07702 574574 542 542

www.oaklandtreeservices.co.uk - enquiries@oaklandtreeservices.co.uk www.oaklandtreeservices.co.uk - enquiries@oaklandtreeservices.co.uk

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31

Simple ways you can effectively make your finances more eco-friendly

by Jeremy Jackson

I

n recent years, it’s likely that you’ve made changes to your lifestyle to become more ecofriendly. From taking out the recycling to driving a hybrid or electric car, there are lots of steps you can take at home (and at work) to reduce your impact on the environment.

Over the last year we have seen an increase in demand for investments that consider the Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) impact on society. Providers are increasingly offering more ethical or sustainable alternatives to traditional investments – indeed, we’re intending to launch a suite of investment portfolios in this space later in 2021.

Green savings There is a small but growing number of providers who offer “green” savings accounts.

For example, if you save with Gatehouse Bank, they will automatically plant a tree whose carbon credits will be registered on behalf of its customers.

Green banking When you choose an ethical bank, you have the peace of mind that your money isn’t being used to fund anything that could have a negative impact on society.

Ethical banks don’t invest in, or lend to, companies that trade in sectors such as arms, tobacco, or fossil fuels. Rather, they lend to firms that do good, such as renewable energy companies or community projects.

Green pensions and investments Choosing to invest or to move your pension to a

“green” fund can have a profound effect. There has been a huge surge in interest in “ESG” investing in recent years – the ESG standing for: Environmental – companies that are committed to reducing their carbon footprint, tackling climate change and who don’t damage the natural world through pollution or waste. Social – firms who improve their social impact, both internally and on the local community. Governance – companies whose board and management drive positive change. It focuses on issues such as diversity in the boardroom, avoiding conflicts of interest, aligning management and shareholder views, and being transparent.

Green mortgage In the last few years there has been a rise in the choice of mortgage deals designed to help people buy more sustainable homes For example, Barclays offers its customers lower mortgage rates if the home you want to purchase has an energy efficiency rating of 81 or above, or is in energy efficiency bands A or B.

(with a little help from us)

Green energy It’s never been easier to go green by choosing an energy provider that supplies your power from renewable sources.

There is a wide choice of tariffs that source 100% of their energy from wind, water, and solar power from “big six” providers to smaller firms who specialise in renewable energy.

If you’d like more information on how to “green” your finances, please get in touch.

Contact us by email at info@blueskyifas.co.uk or call us on 01189 876655.

Jeremy Jackson is a Chartered Financial Planner with Bluesky Chartered Financial Planners.

32

Make provision for the things you love

Jeremy

Personalised Financial Planning

For an initial consultation call us on:

0118 987 6655 info@blueskyifas.co.uk www.blueskyifas.co.uk

BLUESKY Chartered Financial Planners is a trading style of BLUESKY Independent Financial Advisers LLP which is authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.’

Successfully transitioned to working from home?

H

ave you successfully transitioned from working in a rented office space to working from home.

Do you want the improved work-life balance to continue post the Coronavirus pandemic? Well it might be time to exercise the break clause in your commercial lease.

Before serving the break notice, one must review the provisions of the break clause contained within the lease carefully. You should follow the wording of the Lease exactly. As described by Lord Hoffman in the case of Mannai Investment Company Limited v Eagle Star Assurance Company Limited [1997] UKHL 19, “If the clause had said that the notice had to be on blue paper, it would have been no good serving a notice on pink paper, however clear it might have been that the tenant wanted to terminate the lease”.

You should also check when the break date is, who the legal owner of the tenant’s interest is and the Landlord’s identity. It is prudent to obtain official copies from the Land Registry to confirm who the legal owners are

eye Legal

and what their registered addresses are. You should also check whether there are any conditions attached to the right to exercise the break for example, that there must be no rent arrears owed to the landlord at the time of serving the notice.

When serving the notice, once again you must follow the service requirements set out in the lease.

These will often require you to leave the notice at, or send by registered or recorded delivery post to the last known place or places of abode, or if a limited company then left at or sent to its registered office. You must also ensure that you allow sufficient time for ‘service’ or in other words for the letter to be posted which is 2 days.

Ask your Landlord to acknowledge receipt and inform you if they consider the notice to be invalid.

Tadley Office Sherfield House Mulfords Hill Tadley RG26 3XJ 0118 981 2992 info-tadley@rowberrymorris.co.uk FREE car park at rear of office Reading Office 17 Castle Street, Reading, RG1 7SB TEL: 0118 958 5611 E: info-reading@rowberrymorris.co.uk Offices also at Richmond and Staines www.rowberrymorris.co.uk

As demonstrated, this is a complex exercise so you may wish to instruct a solicitor in order to provide you with advice and serve a valid notice in order to bring your lease to an end.

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To contribute, advertise or let us know your news please call 0118 933 3311 or email hello@villageeye.co.uk

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info@it-aas.co.uk

07766 443311

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33

eye

WIN A KIDS SLEEPOVER Y! PAedRinT Vogue and winning

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Find your balance Designed and focused on the connection of mind, body and breath.

production of

Book by Dennis Kelly

Music and Lyrics by Tim Minchin

This amateur production is presented by arrangement with Music Theatre International (Europe).

All authorised performance materials are also supplied by MTI Europe www.mtishows.co.uk

Virtual Classes

Private Classes

Relaxation Classes

Price: £8 per class or sign up to 6 classes for £45

Contact me to find out more!

OnlinePrice: £8 per class or sign up to 6 classes for £45

Monday 2nd - Friday 6th August With full theatre show on Saturday*! *restrictions allowing

St John's Hall, Mortimer

10am - 3pm

JOIN OUR CAST!

NO AUDITIONS TO TAKE PART!

Full information at:

Contact Sharon on:

0790 0693 448 rohoyoga@gmail.com

34

https://stageability.class4kids.co.uk/camps Got a Question? Ask Jackie! jackie@berkshire.stageability.co.uk T: 0118 933 3791

To contribute, advertise or let us know your news please call 0118 933 3311 or email hello@villageeye.co.uk

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But this is simply not the case; yoga was a discipline borne 1000’s of years ago in India as a means to quieten the mind. The physical practice itself gave the mind something on which to focus, and a means to prepare the body for meditation.

The mental and emotional benefits of regular practice must not be overlooked. A huge part of Traditional Yoga practice is working with the breath (pranayama), and within this the benefits are invaluable - we lower the heart rate, we decrease blood pressure, and by stimulating the parasympathetic nervous system we induce a sense of calm. Add to this how naturally, with regular practice, we do indeed build a strong and supple body, we also suppress the production of cortisol (our stress hormone) and promote the production of dopamine and serotonin and the release of endorphins (our happy chemicals!) It’s easy to see how many people depend upon yoga for not just their physical, but their mental and emotional well-being.

“I‘m not flexible!

I can’t do yoga!”

Mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression have become a normal and healthy topic of discussion, and more and more people are opening up to their own experiences of this. But whilst people assume that yoga is all about bendy, stretchy postures, they’ll never realise the incredible benefits that yoga can, and DOES, offer for overall better health.

A common testimonial is that after yoga, even just one class, people sleep really well. Everyone needs a good nights sleep, right?!

There really is something for everyone!

Everyone should do Yoga!

The studio is located in Burghfield on the edge of a working farm, its location is naturally peaceful and tranquil, despite being only a short drive from the A4 and M4, and therefore easily accessible.

So what does the Yoga Studio offer?

Hatha Yoga:

It is a very common misconception that one has to be uber bendy to practice yoga, and more often than not this assumption is reinforced by images in the media of skinny bodies in pretzel like positions, or arm balances that seem nigh on impossible, with or without the upper body strength of the Hulk.

Youth Yoga:

Start them young! Yoga for senior school aged children from 11 years. In this class, Luci encourages movement and body awareness in a non-competitive environment, calms the mind, yet manages to have a lot of fun!

Adaptive Yoga:

An Adaptive Yoga class is held by Joy Rose, inviting those to her class who may have physical limitations to consider and who may not feel confident joining a regular class.

Meditation Classes:

For those who perhaps don’t fancy a physical yoga class, Meditation courses are offered by teacher Judy Claughton. These classes are ideal for adding mindfulness meditation into your toolbox to help cope with stress and find calm and peace. Judy often teaches outside, connecting to nature with her meditation magic.

Pilates Classes:

New to the studio, Naomi Baker offers Classical Pilates. This practice derived from yoga almost 100 years ago to support the human body and return natural and healthy movement. Regular Pilates practice is an incredible tool for overcoming persistent or niggling pains or injuries and living a long, full and active life.

Luci Trendle is a Senior teacher with the Traditional Yoga Association, and on the TYA examining board for aspiring student teachers.

She has taught at the World Yoga Festival in 2018 and 2019, and is due to this year, when it will be held in Henley on 30/31 July and 1 August.

Luci’s classes are lively and focussed; she offers Hatha Yoga for Beginners and a selection of Gentle and Open classes through the week for regular practitioners.

Your awareness is always at the heart of her classes, and conclude with a guided meditation.

Feature Fridays:

Once a month, the studio will host a Feature Friday night.

This has successfully has seen a variety of events, from Special Meditation evenings (to celebrate a New Moon or the Summer Solstice for example) and Chanting evenings for those who are keen to explore chanting in Sanskrit, the ancient language of yoga. The studio is reintroducing Blindfold Yoga, where all participants (except the teacher) are blindfolded; with the loss of sight, all other senses are heightened, ones’ awareness is sharpened, resulting in (literally) a truly sensational experience! Also, our Friday Feature evenings will invite Guest Teachers in to share their differing styles of yoga. Finally, the ever-popular Gong Baths will continue to be a regular feature!

Here, you allow yourself to be immersed into sound of the gongs, as your brainwaves shift from Alpha to Theta, sending you into a dreamlike meditative state. Ah! Bliss!

For further details on any of the above simply contact Luci: Email: trendluci72@btinternet.com /Luci Trendle Yoga Teacher Call: 0773 446 0662

www.lucitrendleyoga.co.uk

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o go

Where t

...

days i l o h r e mm

is su

ds th i k e h t h wit

Go Ape, Bracknell Enjoy the classic Go Ape experience and segway adventure at Go Ape Bracknell. You'll have a safety brief before you fly down zip-wires, leap off the Tarzan Swing and tackle obstacles whilst enjoying some seriously beautiful scenery. goape.co.uk/locations/bracknell

Frensham Pond

The wildlife park and gardens plays host to fun, adventure, animals, gardens, play and activities on the banks of the picturesque River Thames. Located on the outskirts of the beautiful village of Pangbourne.

Situated between Farnham and Hindhead on either side of the A287 is the green flag award-winning site of Frensham Great Pond. (Nearest postcode GU10 2QB) This man-made beach stretches along a 13th century lake giving ample opportunity to sunbathe and swim in warm weather. The woodland trails and bridle paths around the pond and common provide plenty of opportunity to enjoy nature! www.waverley.gov.uk

www.bealepark.org.uk

With more than 55 interactive rides and attractions, guests can fly through the treetops to escape fearsome dragons, ride the thrilling rapids with a Viking Fleet, join Lego divers on a magical underwater adventure on Atlantis Submarine Voyage or enjoy the UK’s only Lego Star Wars Miniland Model Display. www.legoland.co.uk

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National Treasure

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eye On Activities

There is something for everyone at 4 Kingdoms Adventure Park, offering a great day out for all the family!

Set in 40 acres on the Hampshire/Berkshire border, the family run farm and adventure park has more than twenty different play zones, a petting zoo, laser tag, giant slides and pedal boats! While much of the attraction is outdoors, there is also an indoor soft play area and a cafe.

4 Kingdoms work on a unique and value for money principle that once you pay, you play all day, with no hidden add-ons for rides. www.4-kingdoms.co.uk

Dinton Pastures

More than 335 acres of parkland open daily throughout the year.

There are a variety of habitats including seven lakes, two rivers, and a children's play park. www.dinton-pastures.co.uk

Atomic Trampoline Park in Gillette Way, South Reading, has more than 50 interconnected trampolines, as well as a giant air bag, a traversing wall, a dodge ball court, a junior bounce area and a tumble track.

Sessions last an hour and are open to everyone aged six and above. www.redkangaroo.co.uk/parks/reading

The Delta Force Reading paint balling centre is based on top of country hills within a very scenic private estate in Mapledurham.

The Reading paint balling centre is one of the largest in the UK and offers six huge paint-ball game zones, such as the epic London Apocalypse with its red London buses and recognisable landmarks. www.paintballgames.co.uk

To contribute, advertise or let us know your news please call 0118 933 3311 or email hello@villageeye.co.uk

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37

Be there when it matters If you’re passionate about care, join our friendly team and enjoy great benefits

Contact us: visit: sueryder.org/jobs email: recruitment@sueryder.org

Sue Ryder is a charity registered in England and Wales (1052076) and in Scotland (SCO39578). Ref. No. 07290. © Sue Ryder. June 2021.

Now taking registrations

Sue Ryder Duchess of Kent Hospice

Fun is an essential ingredient at Green Park Day Nursery and Preschool where the care and education opportunities for each and every child are as extraordinary as our colleagues who provide them.

FOR CHILDREN AGED 6 WEEKS TO 5 YEARS

OPEN 7.30AM TO 6.30PM

“Excellent nursery. Attentive and caring staff. Lots of activities. Fabulous menu. My 1-year-old son has a blast and I have absolute confidence in the staff and the quality of care to leave him at the nursery full time.”

Parent, www.daynurseries.co.uk

Please call 0118 931 3115 or email greenpark.nursery@childbase.com Green Park Day Nursery and Preschool, Green Park Business Park, 200 South Oak Way, Lime Square, Green Park, Reading, RG2 6UQ

WE LOOK FORWARD TO HEARING FROM YOU www.childbasepartnership.com

07290 - Duchess of Kent Nurse Recruitment Ad 105x148.indd 1

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08/06/2021 14:57

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ork w d n a e m Co the at Jubilee, t area’s bes ry day nurse

WE ARE LOOKING FOR QUALIFIED NURSERY PRACTITIONERS TO JOIN OUR GROWING TEAM. Jubilee Day Nursery is a well-established and highly regarded private day nursery in Padworth, Berkshire. From three months to five years of age, babies and children are inspired by our unique environment and our fantastic outdoor learning opportunities.

We are always on the lookout for resilient, caring, collaborative people who have the right qualities to bring to Jubilee. Whether you would like to train, are newly qualified or have lots of experience we will help you make the most of your talents, skills and passions.

So if you’d like to work with some of the funniest and most warm-hearted people on the planet, zoom into space with them on one day or make a den in the woods the next, a career with Jubilee is the right place for you.

We can offer you a competitive salary, great benefits and the opportunity to progress.

Whatever your ambitions, the sky’s the limit at Jubilee!

For more information about the vacancies, please visit: www.jubileedaynursery.co.uk/careers To apply, please send your CV to josie@jubileedaynursery.co.uk

Rectory Road, Padworth, RG7 4JD 0118 970 1600

39

SCENE FROM THE BORROWERS: 1997

40

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MOVIES &TV

eye

with ROB BARNES

A Quiet Place I I The phrase ‘a quiet place’ may well be used to describe our cinemas over the past year or so, but with our emporiums of movie world magnificence gradually reopening, so too are distributors releasing films that have been locked away in the can for extended periods.

While the tension-filled A Quiet Place, starring husband and wife team Emily Blunt and John Krasinski, was one of the sleeper hits of 2018, some have queried whether the couple’s desire to protect their family in the face of postapocalyptic monsters who hunt down prey on volume and vibrations, quite had enough for a followup.

The fact it does will come as a relief to fans of both.

Blunt’s star continues to rise, despite mixed reactions to her portrayal of Mary Poppins, while Krasinski’s ability to work a story from both sides of the camera have him down as one of the most talented and well-positioned writers and producers currently sat at the top table of the movie industry.

As for the story, it follows much the same line as the original, though this time there is the dawning realisation that the monsters they evaded in the first instalment aren’t the only forces who threaten their survival.

Supernova That Stanley Tucci and Colin Firth have embarked on a story that tackles homosexuality, dementia, freedom and adversity, is a nod that perhaps an industry obsessed with superheroes is harbouring a few very special talents in a guise no more elaborate than a t-shirt and pair of chinos.

This touching story of two men whose road trip is interrupted and intercepted by everyday things, startling stories and the hovering spectre of dementia, will probably not get the widespread coverage it deserves, but that big screen royalty of the calibre of Tucci and Firth have had the courage and energy to reach outside of himself on new projects is proof enough that Tinseltown isn’t completely lost.

A GOOD READ: Fun

We Wear Underpants by Katie Abey There are many different styles of books for young children, and I know that when mine were both toddlers, one sort of book that was guaranteed to occupy them every time was a spotting book. We Wear Underpants is this type of book, and the illustrations are wonderful.

Each page is full of animals wearing … well, the sorts of things that you would NOT expect an animal to wear! From the titular item of underpants to t-shirts, scarves, wellies, and pyjamas. Each page asks the reader to look for a different thing.

Counting candy floss on a page with animals wearing t-shirts at the fair. Finding the stripy scarf and deciding which scarf you would want to wear. And who is dreaming while wearing pyjamas. The final page asks, ‘What will you wear today?’ A lovely way to get young children thinking about getting dressed – a task that often seems to be low on the list of priorities for a child that age!

By Willow Coby 41

eye Fitness

Youth Fitness: A Guide for Parents

S

o, your 16 year old is now old enough to use a gym and has expressed an interest in fitness.

Here are some things to consider while guiding them on their fitness journey: Keep it health focused: When young people make good exercise choices, this will enhance their health and longevity for the rest of their years. When they focus on health first, the other things they might want to get from training such as improved self-esteem will come naturally. Someone who I trained from the age of 16 recently said this to me: “Steve, I really value my leg exercises, because I remember you telling me that having the biggest biceps in the world won’t stop me getting arthritis in my knees later in life, and that’s why it’s important to train my legs”.

Balance is everything: I saw a “full body” workout that an Instagram Influencer posted to their account a while back. It was so skewed towards exercises that trained the muscles on the front of the body, that if anyone followed that workout for any appreciable length

of time, they would end up with distorted posture and sore shoulders.

It’s important for young people to understand that all of the muscles in their body are important, not just the ones they can see in the mirror, or that the media has told them are important. All muscles should be trained equally and in balance.

Young people are exposed to more information than ever before, but establishing the focus on training for health early on will help them to sort the good information from the less useful and set healthy foundations for the rest of their lives.

Be wary of split routines: When a young person first ventures into the weights area, they’ll often start training different muscles on each day, training each muscle once a week. That’s what the routines on the internet and magazines show most often. A better approach is to use 2-3 full body workouts per week.

When we start resistance training, our body goes through a 6-8 week learning period where it learns to co-ordinate its muscles and nerves more efficiently. By training the whole body each session rather than just part of it, we expose our muscles to the movements it needs to get better at more frequently. This results in faster progress, and it’s also a better technique for sports conditioning.

Steve Shreeve d d d d

Personal PT Online Personal PT in Person Ante and Post Natal Training

Weight Loss/Body Composition Improvement d Sports Specific Training (SST) d Nutrition Advice d General Fitness & Wellness d Basketball Coaching

07881 762644

www.shreevehandf.com / shreevehealthandfitness

BOOK YOUR BOXFIT CLASSES NOW! OUTDOOR CLASSES IN:

BURGHFIELD, MORTIMER, BASINGSTOKE, & TADLEY

Lose weight & Build self confidence!

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BOOK YOUR CLASS NOW!

07855 015685

www.totallysmashedit.com

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We’ll get a

MOVE on SOLD

we don’t dilly dally

If you are thinking of selling or renting, think pink this summer and get moving quickly. contact our mortimer office: phone: 0118 467 7999 email: mortimer@davidcliff.com visit: davidcliff.com

44Offices also at Wokingham, Binfield and Park Lane, London