Village Eye Magazine - October 2020

VILLAGE

Issue 93 October 2020 reaching 11,500 households

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the area’s favourite Lifestyle Magazine

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Local Scarecrow Trails A FUN WAY TO SPEND TIME

OUTDOORS

Is Halloween Cancelled in 2020?

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Check Up Burghfield Dental

Burghfield Common | Burghfield Village | Beech Hill | Mortimer | Theale | Spencers Wood | Silchester | Sulhamstead Ufton Nervet | Aldermaston | Padworth | Pamber Heath | Tadley | Baughurst | Three Mile Cross | Bramley

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HYGGE FOR THE AUTUMN

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LIKE US TODAY & STAY UPDATED LOCALLY

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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!

10-11. Zzzzzzzzzz How do you know if you are getting enough sleep? Take at look at the technology which can help.

22. On the Move with David Cliff With the stamp duty holiday still in place, now is a great time to think about moving. Take a look at what David Cliff have to offer.

24-33. Pink Pages Electrician? Roofer? Windows?

Whatever you are looking for, check here first! All of our advertisers are following PHE guidelines and wearing PPE when necessary.

Helle n & the Team xx

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2020 reach

40-41. Trick or Treat…for 2020 Things may have to be done a little differently this year, but there’s no excuse not to have fun.

Have a look at our guide to a 2020 Halloween celebration!

Our cover sponsor this month is Burghfield Dental who (as you may have guessed) is based in Burghfield Common and offers a full range of services from standard check-ups through to cosmetic work. If you are self-conscious about your smile, turn to pages 6-7 to find out more about the options available to give you your confidence back, often for less than you think!

As ever, we extend a huge thank you to all of our readers, advertisers and contributors for helping to keep business local.

Please remember to mention Village Eye when responding to an advertisement or featured business within the magazine.

October

38. At The Flicks This month our film reviewer, Rob Barnes, tells us what he thinks of the latest release from visionary director Christopher Nolan, best known for The Dark Knight trilogy, Inception, Interstellar and Dunkirk.

Halloween is likely to be a different type of affair this year with COVID-19 restrictions in place, but we have put together a guide on an alternative Hallowe’en celebration to make sure you still have fun this year.

Village Eye has had a raft of competitions for you to enter over the last few months and with that comes lots of competition winners!

We have rounded up a few of our recent winners for you on page 37. Don’t forget, you have to be in it to win it, so watch out for our competitions in the next issue.

VILLAGE

21. Embrace the Hygge Hygge is like a ‘how to’ guide on enjoying the winter months, so grab that cosy blanket, light the fire and read all about it.

H October Contents

ere at Village Eye HQ, we are delighted to bring you October’s issue in what must be one of the warmest starts to autumn that we have seen in a long time.

Let’s hope it stays dry for the Scarecrow Trails taking part in October half term.

Issue 93

13. Planning a Wedding Times are tough for newly wed wannabes with guidelines and restrictions changing all the time.

Just what does a wedding look like at the moment?

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keep it local!

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Hellen Shaw Jackie Stuart Lindsey Barker Amelia Baird Jack Worboys Rob Barnes

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Local S carecrow Trail A FUN WAY

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Gardening: Finance: Philosophy Teen Stuff:

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The National Deaf Children’s Society is a charity close to the heart of fellow cyclist James Hellem, whose niece, Libby, had glue ear as an infant, which severely affected her hearing.

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The team conquered the Ridgeway National Trail, which runs from Wiltshire to Buckinghamshire and is known as Britain’s oldest road, and, due to some unexpected diversions, the team cycled a total of 96 miles over the two day event.

To date, the team of friends has raised £370 for the National Deaf Children’s

Society - which supports the UK’s 50,000 deaf children - over double their original fundraising target.

Claire Lubbock, community fundraising programme manager of the National Deaf Children’s Society, said: “I want to say a huge thank you to Alex, Richard, James and David who took on the Ridgeway for us. We are very proud of you.

Together we help to transform the lives of the UK’s 50,000 deaf children, break down the barriers society puts in their way and make sure no deaf child is left behind.”

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THEALE GETS NEW PRIMARY SCHOOL Congratulations to Theale Primary School who moved into their long-awaited new school at the beginning of the academic year. Following years of dispute, the new site now provides an improved, modern facility for up to 315 children in and around the village.

West Berkshire Council executive member for children, young people and education Dominic Boeck (Con, Aldermaston) said the new school was “absolutely wonderful”.

“It’s really great. It’s a huge change from the old school which was full to bursting, in fact it had burst,” he said.

The land at the North Street playing fields was chosen as the only viable site for a new school some years ago, but concerns were raised over the location, including children’s safety, highways safety and loss of open space.

District councillor for Theale, Alan Macro (Lib Dem) said, “I think once people saw how much of the field was left, some of the scare stories were put to bed.” An under 15s football pitch will be constructed by West Berkshire Council to compensate for the loss of a pitch on the school site.

We hope you enjoy your new home, Theale Primary!

eye

LAMBS LANE ARE RAISING A MINT

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Community New

Have you ever wondered how money raised from the Sugar Tax gets spent?

Lambs Lane Primary School in Spencers Wood are recipients of the Healthy Pupil Capital Fund which has been generated by the ‘sugary drinks tax’, which is great news.

The school was successful in obtaining a grant of just over £13,000 to put towards new playground equipment but now plans have been finalised, the project has been costed at £35,000. The whole project encompasses the playground equipment but also raised flowerbeds, a mud kitchen and a bug observation station. These will be accessible to all children including those who use wheelchairs and frames.

The school and the PTA are determined to raise the money for such a worthwhile project.

The school has just recently been awarded a grant from Shinfield Parish Council to help towards the target. They were incredibly generous and have granted £3,000. The school has also had a £500 donation from The Calico Trust in Swallowfield, who are regular supporters of Lamb’s Lane school. Last year Fraser’s Budgens in Three Mile Cross ran a raffle in support of the project and raised £344.

In the last 18 months the PTA has raised a whopping £10,500!

For a small village school this is really quite incredible. But the last 6 months have really stalled their fundraising. There was no Summer Fair and it is highly unlikely that they will be able to hold the Christmas Fair, both of which are huge fundraisers for them. So now they are working on creative ways of fundraising remotely.

They launched Your School Lottery in August. For every lottery ticket sold 76% goes back to the school. There is a winner every week from the school community. Everyone is entered in to the £25,000 jackpot.

NEW COMMUNITY CENTRE OPENING IN SPENCERS WOOD The much-talked about new community centre in Spencers Wood will soon be open, providing a place for the youth club to meet.

Last month, a modular pavilion was installed on Spencers Wood Recreation Ground to replace the 20-year-old building. The new building has two small meeting rooms and a large community area - which can be extended with a concertina wall - along with a kitchen and audio-visual facilities.

The parish council said: “We’re delighted by the progress and swift build of this facility to provide residents with a much improved offering to residents, clubs, associations and party hirers.

“We wish the pre-school, Shinfield Volunteer Car Service and other hirers, both returning and new, a warm welcome to the pavilion and long may it continue as a centre for community activity and spirit.”

Winners have the option to take their winnings or donate it back to school (another great way to support them.)

The school still needs to raise just short of £9000, so if you have any great ideas or want to support the PTA please email llsa@hotmail.co.uk To sign up just go to www.yourschoollottery.co.uk/lottery/ school/lambs-lane-parent-teacherassociation

GOOD LUCK JASMINE Is Superwoman living in Spencers Wood? Jasmine Allen started her law firm in 2019, trading as The LPA Solicitor. She also has a son who is 2, a daughter who is 7 and two stepdaughters aged 8 and 11 – it’s one busy house! Jasmine clearly has no idea how to have a quiet life and on top of all this, she has been shortlisted for The Law Society Excellence in Client Service Award 2020. How does she do it?

Jasmine’s company is one of only five law firms in the country to be shortlisted for this award.

She has been a qualified solicitor for 10 years now and but she launched her own business just under a year ago to give her more flexibility to work around her family. It certainly looks as if she has got the juggling under control!

Winners will be announced this month. Good luck, Jasmine!

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It’s World Smile Day on Friday 2nd October, but will you be smiling about it?

If you are someone who smiles with their mouth closed for fear of showing their not-quiteperfect teeth, maybe it’s time to investigate a solution.

And we’re not talking Harley Street here. Not when there’s a perfect solution much closer to home in Burghfield Common. The Burghfield Dental Practice at Auclum Green has been running since 1988 and has been owned

by Dr. Hossein Hesami since 2008.

You’ll be pleased to know that it is almost ‘business as usual’ at The Burghfield Dental Practice, with the exception of a few work-arounds for COVID safety. You can book an emergency appointment now or a regular check-up.

Fillings, crowns and implants are back on offer and most cosmetic procedures, too. Dr. Hesami’s team can offer a full makeover including wrinkle relaxing & fillers - yes, really! - implants, teeth straightening and teeth whitening.

The fact that a dentist is carrying out wrinkle relaxing and filler procedures may surprise you, but in reality, dentists are perfect for these procedures as they really know and understand the facial muscle structure, having

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studied this at degree level. They are also well-practised at giving injections!

You’ll be relieved to know that their teeth straightening solutions do not involve any metal brackets and ugly wires to straighten your teeth. Patients can choose from Invisalign and Smileline, the country’s leading invisible orthodontic aligner systems. Both systems provide a staged revolutionary clear brace aligner which gives you the straight smile you always dreamed of.

It’s practically invisible, so people won’t even know you’re having your teeth straightened.

It’s also comfortable, removable and easy to use. Best of all, finance packages are available.

Implant Innovation As technology advances in the dental world, better options become widely available to patients who might not have been able to replace missing teeth in the past. One of these new developments is called a dental implant, which can dramatically enhance the quality of life for dental patients who have suffered tooth loss. Having recently received a Masters in Implantology, Mr Hesami has undergone and completed extensive training and has vast experience in inserting dental implants.

What is a dental implant and why are they used?

A dental implant is a titanium screw that’s inserted into a patient’s jaw once a tooth has been removed. For some, it is to replace

a single missing tooth, but multiple dental implants can be used to replace many missing teeth at once or over time, depending on the patient’s needs.

The practice also offers some NHS care, so please ask for details.

So whether it’s wrinkle relaxing, straightening, whitening or just a regular check-up, get in touch with the friendly team at Burghfield Dental Practice on 0118 983 3563 and see how they can help you regain your smile.

And don’t forget that the Burghfield Dental Practice can fulfill all your regular dental needs, too, and offers interest free finance and Denplan cover for those who prefer to spread the cost of their dental treatment.

Hollywood Smile?

Perhaps it’s a bright, white Hollywood smile that you’re after? Teeth whitening is a safe and effective way to quickly improve your smile, giving you a brighter more radiant smile in as little as a 60 minute procedure. Whitening is the ideal way to refresh teeth that have been stained with smoking, coffee drinking or certain foods over time.

Enlighten whitening can whiten up to 16 shades, though results do vary. If it’s used correctly, all teeth will whiten dramatically. All it takes is just three visits to the practice and the rest is done at home over a period of a few weeks.

There are whitening brands on the market for around £250, but results from these products are not guaranteed like they are with Enlighten.

Before Enlighten

After Enlighten

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

time for a

Check Up

0118 983 3563 www.burghfielddental.co.uk

Burghfield Dental 7

need Dentures? we can help!

h a V om va is e ila its bl e

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

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* NHS referrals are accepted from all West Berkshire GPs - just ask!

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

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Clinging on to the Summer As the leaves start to fall from the trees and we reach for our warmer clothes, it still feels good to ditch the ‘pasty’ look underneath.

For the face?

For some reason tan never really sits right on my skin, it really clings to dry areas, leaving a patchy and unnatural look. However, I discovered a tan for your face in the style of a mist! This one is a Rosewater face tanning mist from the brand ‘mine’. It’s very hydrating and doesn’t go orange. I’m sure there are many out there, but it works wonders and is very affordable. It means I can have tanned skin even in the colder months to come!

Around £13

minetanbodyskin.com

Around £20

For the body?

It is always so nice to have a tan, right? Well obviously, the weather can’t always give you that glowing bronzed skin, so instead you can just use a fake tan. This tan doesn’t go streaky, or green! It is a lovely golden colour and dries quickly. If you’re stuck on what tan to get then I would give the ‘filter’ range by Molly Mae a try. prettylittlething.com

rfect tan...

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eye top tip

ALWAYS USE A MIT TO APPLY YOUR TAN!

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Bug ’s Beauty 9

Sleep SHOULD WE WORRY ABOUT QUANTITY OR QUALITY?

D

uring Lockdown, my sleep suffered. Like everyone else my anxiety levels rocketed, and I tossed and turned for hours.

I dug out my Fitbit which I hadn’t worn since the start of Lockdown and began tracking my sleep again. I realised that my sleep score which had previously been 87-92 (goodexcellent), was now languishing around 61-64 (bottom end of fair) occasionally dipping into the 50s (poor). No wonder I felt tired and tearful. Something needed to change.

To optimise sleep health, we need to balance how long we sleep with how well we sleep. For years, researchers recommended eight hours of sleep each night as optimal. Now professionals consider sleep quality to be of equal importance in reaping all the benefits of sleep. In fact, sleep quality is probably a better indicator of overall mental health, mood, and energy levels than sleep quantity. Prior to lockdown, I'd been a 10:30pm6am sleeper, Occasionally 11pm-6:30am. Although that was 30 minutes shy of the perfect 8 hours I always woke just before my alarm, feeling rested. During Lockdown bedtimes had become later and later, and although I was 'sleeping' for longer, and not setting the alarm, my sleep was clearly not of the quality I was used to.

Fitness trackers like the Fitbit monitor the quality of our sleep by looking at how much time we spend in the various stages. We cycle through the various stages each night and we each have a unique cycle. During light sleep our body unwinds and relaxes.

This is always the first stage of sleep and we spend most of our time asleep in it. It's important to our mental and physical health that we get enough light sleep. Deep sleep typically occurs within the first few hours of sleep. Our breathing is slower, our muscles relax fully and we're harder to wake during this stage.

Typically, we spend about 13% of our night in deep sleep, and this is when our body repairs itself. Deep sleep aids learning, memory, and it supports our immune system. Finally, REM (rapid eye movement) sleep is when we dream. Our heart rate increases, and our breathing becomes more irregular. We also experience a form of paralysis (so we don't start acting out our dreams!). REM sleep is important for mood regulation, learning and memory. It’s when our brains process and consolidate our experiences from the day.

A regular bedtime is an important factor in sleep quality.

Avoiding stimulants like the blue light from electronic devices, or the caffeine in coffee are also a factor, as is making sure we have enough gentle exercise during the day. I decided to take an hour-long walk every day and moved my bedtime back to 10:30pm. I avoided checking my phone for 30 minutes before bed and didn’t drink coffee after 7pm. I noticed improvements almost immediately and within a week my sleep had more-or-less reset to normal. Within a fortnight my sleep score was back up in the 80s and hasn’t dropped since.

If you’re feeling stressed and tired or are struggling with a low mood it’s worth looking at both the quality and quantity of your sleep.

By Maggie McKeown

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ZZZAPPS

STRUGGLING TO CATCH ENOUGH ZZZ'S? THERE'S AN APP FOR THAT (NO SURPRISE THERE!) IN FACT, THERE ARE SO MANY SLEEP APPS THAT PROMISE TO HELP YOU FALL (AND STAY) ASLEEP THAT IT CAN BE HARD TO FIGURE OUT WHICH ONES ARE WORTH A TRY.

Sleep Genius Based on research done to help NASA’s astronauts sleep, this app has a wealth of science to make you sleep faster, longer and deeper. Sleep Genius uses jargon like “neuro-sensory algorithms” and “psychoacoustic music” to explain how it works.

In other words: soothing noises. sleepgenius.com Download on App Store and Google Play | £3.99 Sleep Cycle As a free sleep app newbie, Sleep Cycle will collate all the data you'd ever wondered about and then a lot more. It's free, simple to use and makes getting to know your sleep patterns easy.

You just need to set a time you want the smart alarm to wake up in the morning, then let the app do its thing. After five nights, you'll have a comprehensive analysis of what's going on, including effects of the weather, air pressure and moon. Free to download.

White Noise Lite Just your classic sleep sounds app, White Noise comes in a few different formats; Lite, Full and Pro. Lite is one of the best free sleep apps. A good all-rounder, it offers a huge range of different sounds, including cars, city streets, rain, vacuums and waves.

Simple to use, it's a go-to for exhausted new parents, jet lag struggles or just to quiet a busy brain, especially as you're sure to be able to find something everyone in the bed will like. Free to download.

The Calm Sleep app is the perfect sleep app for those who want to achieve a good sleep or a quick & powerful nap. It also helps user to wake up smoothly.

Enjoy better head space & focus on daily life. Sleep well through sleepcasts, wind downs, sleep music, etc. Checkout the mini meditation courses for themed meditation. Free on Google Play.

Sleep Stories for Adults The app for sleep, Meditation, Music and mindfulness. Enjoy 1000 guided meditations to help you manage anxiety, lower stress and sleep better. It is the perfect mindfulness app for beginners, but also includes hundreds of programs for intermediate and advanced users.

Sleep Stories to help you fall into a deep sleep. Free on app store.

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We must keep on protecting each other.

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Saying I do

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2020 STYLE!

eye weddings

t is no secret that the wedding industry has seen disruption this year on an unprecedented scale, with most weddings earlier in the year either postponed or cancelled due to social distancing rules.

As lockdown rules attempted to thwart the union of lovebirds across the country, some even resorted to Zoom to conduct ceremonies (albeit without the legal association, to come at a later date).

However, a new proposal from the Law Commission seeks to allow couples to get married outdoors or inside family homes, and this could be a complete game changer.

The current rules state that a wedding in England and Wales, for a civil ceremony, it needs to take place in a venue approved by the local council or a register office and two witnesses must be present. If you choose a religious wedding, you must get married at a registered religious building and it must be registered by a religious minister. Same-sex couples who choose a religious wedding can only be married in places that are registered for same-sex couples.

The new proposals could permit couples in England and Wales to get married in private gardens, beaches, parks and oven on cruise ships. At the minute anyone wanting a wedding in a location such as this also has to have a separate legal ceremony in another place - such as a church or register office first.

The Law Commission says that the current wedding regulations are ‘no longer meeting the needs of many couples’, and it believes that couples shouldn’t have to choose between a civil or a religious ceremony. These proposed changes could make it easier and more viable for couples to get married in the future. But, even as lockdown rules change and the social distancing efforts evolve, it seems that the more traditional venues are adapting their offerings, too. With carefully and seamlessly adapted socially distanced wedding ceremonies and receptions still taking place in beautiful

local settings like Ufton Court and DeVere Wokefield Estate, we are even seeing some of our local restaurants and public houses providing solutions to those still wishing to get hitched during what really is a strange time all round. Indeed, for those that had to postpone and had dreams of a 2020 wedding, it seems that the backlog of brides and grooms are accelerating the growing trend to opt for midweek weddings - meaning that Wednesdays, really are the new Saturdays!

If you are planning a wedding, don’t let the (not so minor) inconvenience of a global pandemic put a stop to your plans. With a little bit of clever revision and tailoring, you can still have the wedding of your dreams.

It’s just a question of talking to your venue to see what they can do for you.

The historic Tithe Barn and Grade 1 Listed Manor House of Ufton Court provide the perfect blank canvas for your wedding day, with exclusive use and no corkage.

By choosing Ufton for your wedding, you will also be supporting our children's charity.

www.uftoncourt.co.uk/weddings Visit us at our Open Weekend on 14th/15th November.

Registration essential: weddings@uftoncourt.co.uk | 0118 983 2099

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

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Hygge Getting Ready for autumn the Danish way

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Create the Atmosphere

Cosy lighting is key to creating a warm atmosphere and hygge lighting focuses on comforting lighting instead of a harsh, bright light. Invest in some small lamps and use warm white bulbs. Fairy lights are also great for creating warmer light and can be brought out well before Christmas to create some hygge.

Candle light is always a winner, so dig out that scented candle you’ve been saving and bring out the tea lights, too.

If you’re lucky enough to have a wood burner, light it up and gather the family round to create the perfect hygge atmosphere.

What is Hygge?

If you find the autumn and winter seasons hard going, you may well benefit from a little bit of Scandinavian Hygge (pronounced Hoo-ga). The Danes have a longer, darker winter than we do here in the UK, but are consistently ranked one of the happiest nations in the world. Is Hygge their secret?

There is no direct translation for the word Hygge. It can be roughly translated as ‘cosiness’ but behind the word is a whole culture of cosiness, warmth, wellbeing and togetherness. From slipping into a warm bath, to cosying up with a good book.

From enjoying a meal with friends, to enjoying a winter walk...

Let us show you how to inject some elements of Hygge into your everyday life and overcome some seasonal glumness. (Please note, we’re not suggesting that depression is something which will disappear by having a warm drink and by lighting a candle, hence the term ‘seasonal glumness’.) At the root of all of the following suggestions is finding joy in simple pleasures, being in nature, connecting with loved ones and gratitude. These are all powerful things and can make a huge difference to how you feel. So let’s go and find some happy!

Scent-sational

Go Tech Free

Certain scents can conjure up a real feeling of warmth and cosiness, even good memories and nostalgia. Some of these will be created from hygge activities you do in the home, such as baking bread, baking cakes or brewing fresh coffee, but other can be created. Fragrances associated with this time of year are typically cinnamon, clove and cedar wood.

Why not get some essential oils and use a diffuser to fill your home with these lovely fragrances and increase the cosiness factor. You will find that they will also relax you and improve your mood.

When a family or group of friends get together these days, you can guarantee that one or all of them will be on their phones, tablets or laptops. These solo bubbles we float about in, even when in company, does nothing for a feeling of togetherness which, it is proven, does wonders for our mental health and happiness. So why not try setting some times to put away phones? Or if you’re meeting with friends, make an agreement to keep phones in pockets - and set a forfeit for whoever caves first!

Conversation, laughter and support are at the very core of our human needs, so let’s start connecting.

Connect with Nature Many people claim to feel an inner peace when they are close to nature. Whether it’s cycling alongside the river or canal, stomping through the woods, exploring local footpaths or walking on the beach. Where does that sense of calm come from? When we engage in these activities we are usually free from the clutches of technology and duties, with phones in pockets and the cleaning ignored.

Perhaps, because of this we are in a more mindful and relaxed state. Why not plan some trips to local nature reserves - or even go down to the coast - which can have a stark beauty at this time of year and breathe in the natural beauty. But don’t forget to wrap up warm and have that hot chocolate with all the trimmings waiting for your return!

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Get Together

preparation is done while the families chat, catching up on life and usually enjoy a drink or two. Cooking with children can be a joy, too. Children love to cook - cakes, biscuits, scones - and to spend a rainy afternoon making goodies will really create a shared connection.

And eating it will create its own joy!

A hygge tradition is cooking together with others. Danish families will often visit each other’s houses to eat, not expecting to be waited on, as per a ‘dinner party’ type scenario. No, they get stuck in and help to prepare the food. The

Indulge Yourself Hygge is all about indulging yourself, pampering yourself and really looking after yourself. This doesn’t necessarily mean eating cake, pastries and cookies. Think comfort food, warm food, cosy food. And the same goes for drinks. Take

time to cosy up with a hot chocolate or enjoy a glass of wine after work. Make time for you.

Of course, indulgence doesn’t need to be all about food and drink.

Take a long bath or cosy up with a good book when you would normally be doing chores. Put life on hold for an hour and pamper your soul.

Cosy Exercise!

Instead of working out in a gym with stark lighting and air conditioning, make your exercise more cosy during these darker days. Pilates or yoga in front of the wood burner, perhaps? Or maybe candles would work well?

If you go for a run, make sure you come back to a warm house and enjoy a long hot shower and a mug or bowl of something warm...oh, so good!

Get Comfy Create a hygge corner in your home. It can be anywhere - in your living room, study or bedroom.

Make a space in your house which feels like the perfect little cosy nook. Use low lighting and add your favourite cushions and snuggly blankets.

Make time to use it alone, for reading, journalling or meditating. Or make it a family space for bedtime stories and cosy chats.

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

facebook.com/villageeyemagazine

@villageeyemag

15

You are more than a 9:30 appointment.

Quality care provided in your own home. Visit our website for more information

www.eleoscare.co.uk

Mortimer Silchester

This year, the MVP Scarecrow Trail will be taking place from Saturday 24th October to Sunday 1st November. The scarecrows will be on show daily until 4pm on Sunday 1st November. Please be sure to observe social distancing on the trail and refrain from touching the lovely Scarecrows.

Trail maps are £1 and will be on sale at a number of outlets in Mortimer but not Budgens. Primary sales will be from Spratley’s in the open air - or you can download your map from www. mortimervillage. org.uk. Enjoy!

Double fun this half term 16

Silchester held its very own Scarecrow Trail for the first time in 2019 and we are delighted to announce that it’s back again this half term. This year the theme remains Halloween with the option of adding a Jim Henson character - so think Muppets and Seasame Street!

Maps are available from Suzi & Jane’s Pop up Cafe and from the Calleva Arms the week before half term.

Scarecrow Trails!

KEEPING THE WHOLE FAMILY MOTORING THIS AUTUMN

Your local WHILE-U-WAIT MOT *

Testing Station & Service Garage

MOTs £45

call or book online now:

0118 933 2338

www.spratleys.co.uk e: service@spratleys.co.uk

60/62 Victoria Road | Mortimer | RG7 3SG

Service | MOT | Repairs | Car Sales *MOT testing by appointment only.

17

I T

A S

A

S E R V I C E

BUSINESS & HOME COMPUTING SPECIALIST local | reliable | affordable

Need Help With Your Computer Issues?

Should I stay or should I go?

O

ver 20 years ago our work as financial planners took on a new aspect when the divorce law changed and pensions could be physically split on divorce (known as pension sharing). It didn’t take long for the legal profession to realise that while physically splitting pensions was a beneficial development in creating a ‘clean break’ on divorce, it did create other problems. Firstly, pensions can be horribly technical and secondly, solicitors cannot provide financial advice.

To cut a long story short, we still do lots of financial planning work for individuals but we also help lots of solicitors and judges as expert witnesses with how pensions (and other finances) should be divided on divorce.

those thinking about leaving their partner delay the decision because of this uncertainty.

The traditional method of launching headlong in to legal proceedings without knowing how it’s going to turn out seems rather reckless.

If things are, sadly, not going well between spouses and divorce is being considered, seeking financial guidance first is a logical step to understand the implications of doing so.

Our experience is that taking financial advice at an early stage helps to:-

In this aspect of our work we have acted for hundreds of divorcing couples who generally have battled their way through part of the legal process of divorce and ended up on our doorstep when the matter of sharing the finances became too complicated to do on their own.

• Give confidence and reassurance that divorce is, at least, financially viable.

• If things look tight, it allows expectations to be set and worked with.

• Perform a sanity check.

Sometimes there is another way and divorce can be avoided. Mediation or counselling, for example can often help. Sometimes, the reality of the finances is the motivator needed to work at things.

Naturally, all divorcing clients come with a degree of anxiety about how it will all look after the divorce. Will they have enough money to live, buy a house, retire? The anxiety is compounded because they are committed now. The solicitor has started the process and it’s difficult to back out now. It feels scary and out of control.

Understanding your financial future will always be beneficial and especially so if you (or anyone you know) is considering any major life changing event. Early consultation will pay dividends both financially and mentally.

Don’t delay! We are here to help.

A recent survey initiated by Brewin Dolphin found that 52% of those who have thought about a divorce don’t think they could afford to do it. 59% of

18

Mark

Mark Penston is a Partner & Chartered Financial Planner at Bluesky

We Can help with: • PC Issues & Performance • Data Recovery & Backups (Local & Cloud) • PC, Server & Software Support – Remote & Onsite • Hardware & Software Installations, Repairs & Upgrades • Virus, Malware & Ransomware Removal, Protection & Prevention • Network Support (Wireless, Routers, Switches, Cabling) • New Equipment Purchases • Project Management, Consultancy & Advice • Mobile Device Support

Contact Barnaby at IT As A Service Ltd 0118 997 7300

info@it-aas.co.uk

/itasaserviceltd

07766 443311

www.it-aas.co.uk

@itasaserviceltd

Make provision for the things you love (with a little help from us)

IT AS A SERVICE

Zoom & Socially Distanced Face to Face appointments available

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.’

eye rights

New online service for using Lasting Powers of Attorney On 17 July 2020 the Office of the Public Guardian (OPG) launched its new digital “Use a Lasting Power of Attorney” (LPA) tool. This tool can be used for newly registered LPAs to enable an Attorney to contact Financial Institutions and/or Healthcare Providers and will improve the speed with which the Attorney will be able to act and make important decisions for the Donor.

The person making the LPA is called the “Donor” and the personal appointed to act on their behalf is called the “Attorney”.

Under the paper-based system, once an LPA has been registered with the OPG, the Attorney must provide the Financial Institution or Healthcare Provider with a physical copy of the registered LPA. This process often leads to delays in the Attorney being able to make decisions on behalf of the Donor and act for them. The Covid-19 pandemic has brought additional challenges and the whole process can be frustrating, particularly when the Attorney needs to act urgently.

Your

The new digital service allows the Attorney to provide a secure code, which when submitted to the online portal, will confirm their status as an Attorney and the power they hold. It also maintains the existing checks which include confirming whether someone has the legal right to act as an Attorney and the powers given to them in the LPA, protecting the vulnerable and elderly from abuse. The new service will ensure Attorneys can make effective and efficient decisions when managing the Donor’s affairs.

Whilst this new tool is currently only available for newly registered LPAs, the OPG are working to extending the systems to already registered LPA. If you would like further advice about the issues raised in this article or advice on completing an LPA or acting as an Attorney, please contact our specialist Private Client team at Rowberry Morris Solicitors.

Tadley Office Sherfield House Mulfords Hill Tadley RG26 3XJ TEL: 0118 981 2992

Reading Office 17 Castle Street, Reading, RG1 7SB TEL: 0118 958 5611 E: info-reading@rowberrymorris.co.uk

E: info-tadley@rowberrymorris.co.uk FREE car park at rear of office

Offices also at Richmond and Staines WEB www.rowberrymorris.co.uk

Do you need HR Advice?

IT’S A STRANGE TIME AT THE MOMENT. IF YOU FIND YOURSELF IN NEED OF SOME FRIENDLY, EXPERT CONFIDENTIAL HR ADVICE, WE CAN HELP.

EMPLOYEE SERVICES: Process & Procedures Redundancy Entitlement Redundancy Process Exit Agreement Advice Work/Life Balance Options Furlough Advice CV Writing & Critique

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

07900 693448 or sharon.beardmore@outlook.com

facebook.com/villageeyemagazine

@villageeyemag

19

eye Motoring

DEFENDING & MENDING

WHEN IT COMES TO SALES, SERVICE, RESTORATIONS AND REBUILDS OF ALL THINGS 4X4, YOU’LL DEFINITELY LAND (ROVER) ® ON YOUR FEET WITH LOCAL FIRM ARKLEYS.

20

Whatever you need for your 4x4, the team at Arkley 4x4 in Spencers Wood - Andrew, Tom, Ben, Kim and Nev - will be able to help. Their combined experience forms an impressive knowledge base, so whether it is a simple (or not so simple) bulb change, an ambitious re-build or anything in between, you can rest assured that you are in safe, experienced and local! - hands.

also have the tools to look after the older vehicles as well.

This team are truly Land Rover enthusiasts and can’t wait to get under the bonnet of your vehicle to fix your problems. Arkley 4x4 will carry out all of your maintenance and servicing needs including, among other things, pre-MOT checks and diagnostic analytics. They have invested in all the latest specialist tools and diagnostic software, but they

So whether your 4x4 requirement is ‘just’ routine or you have a bespoke project in mind, do get in touch. The team at Arkley 4x4 are keen to help.

Aside from their main business of servicing and maintaining local 4x4s, the team also takes on significant re-build and refurbishment projects.

Think soft top conversion, a custom exhaust system, bespoke interior upgrades…you get the idea.

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

facebook.com/villageeyemagazine

@villageeyemag

Andrew Arkley fell in love with 4x4s when he learned to drive in a Discovery - one of the first! He hasn’t stopped driving Land Rovers since…

Andrew opened a small Land Rover vehicle sales garage in 2009, which he ran on a part time basis. In November 2017, it was such a success that Andrew made the decision to operate on a full-time basis. Now, Arkley 4x4 has a small team of dedicated staff offering first class advice from a farm premises just 5 minutes’ drive from junction 11 of the M4.

"REALLY REFRESHING TO FIND AN HONEST AND GOOD QUALITY INDEPENDENT LANDY MECHANIC. THEY WERE REALLY HELPFUL, KEPT ME UP TO DATE, AND PROVIDED GOOD HONEST FEEDBACK ON WHAT NEEDS TO BE DONE IN THE FUTURE. I WILL DEFINITELY BE RETURNING! THANKS AGAIN"

LODDON COURT FARM, BEECH HILL ROAD, SPENCERS WOOD, RG7 1HT ANDREW@ARKLEYS.CO.UK 01189 888 400 OR 07712 592 066 21

Burghfield Common Character and charm This 4 bedroom lodge was built in 1870 and sits in an exclusive gated location with circa 0.6 acre of beautiful grounds. When you arrive through the gates you know that you have arrived somewhere special.

• Ground floor living • 4 bedrooms • En suite to master • 4 receptions • Double garage • Circa 0.6 acre plot • EPC rating D

£900,000

Aldermaston Village

Stunning refurbished barn Full of character and charm this detached 4 bedroom home offers fantastic accommodation for the modern family.

• 4 double bedrooms • New en suite to master • New family bathroom • 2 separate receptions • New kitchen/breakfast room • Double garage

OIEO £700,000 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 Updated and improved This lovely 4 bedroom detached home sits on a south west facing plot in a desirable close on the edge of the village with excellent access to the village facilities and surrounding woodland.

• 4 bedrooms • 2 en suites • 4 receptions • South West facing garden • EPC rating C

£825,000

Pamber Heath Superb village location

Mortimer Must be seen

Spencers Wood Updated and improved

£660,000 • Westbuild detached home • 4 bedrooms • En suite to master

• Family room • Private rear garden • Awaiting EPC

Three Mile Cross Entertainers garden

£525,000 • Circa 1534sq.ft • Updated and improved • 3 double bedrooms

Tadley Three double bedrooms

£365,000 • Semi detached home • 3 bedrooms • En suite

• Stunning kitchen • Large conservatory • EPC rating D

• Fitted kitchen • Garage and parking • EPC rating B

£475,000 • Detached • 3 bedrooms • New ensuite

Burghfield Common Backing onto playing fields

£315,000 • No onward chain £239, 500

• Semi detached home • Open plan living space

• New bathroom • Lovely refitted kitchen • Awaiting EPC rating

• Modern kitchen • Garage and driveway • EPC rating D

£310,000 • No onward chain • 3 bedrooms • Kitchen/dining room

• Private rear garden • Outbuilding • Awaiting EPC rating

23

Pink Pages: Trades & Services

Contact Toby on 07737 784 244

for a free quotation or email: info@bluebanana.tv

• • •

No Signal? we’ll fix it • Digital Television Aerials • Radio Aerials, (DAB and FM) • Sky HD & Freesat

www.bluebanana.tv

Home cinema systems IRS Systems Hidden cables

• Multiroom systems • Repairs to existing systems, • European satellites • Domestic and Commercial Work undertaken • TVs mounted on walls

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 24

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

To advertise, call 0118 933 3311

eye

GETTING READY FOR THE WINTER

WITH THE TEAM @ THEALE GAS

I

f you live in Theale, you probably already know Jon.

Jon Fleming runs respected local company, Theale Gas, a small team of Gas Safe engineers offering heating repairs and services including oil - as well as bathroom installations, general household plumbing and plumbing for extensions and new builds. He is also qualified to work on commercial gas & heating projects too.

The most interesting bit is that Jon has built his business on ‘word-of-mouth’ and referrals. And that’s been pretty easy for him and his team because he is known for delivering a top-notch job, always with a smile.

Jon has 30 years of experience in gas and heating, and his father was in the same business before him. Now Jon has 2 engineers working for him as well as an apprentice, but they really do keep it in the family. One of the engineers is Jon’s previous apprentice - now fully qualified - and the other engineer was Jon’s original boss when Jon was an apprentice himself! They are supported by Jon’s partner, Martine, and together they have welcomed the next generation of Theale Gas into the world with the recent birth of their son.

Working as a small, close knit team means that Jon can be 100% confident that his team shares his view on the importance of excellent customer service and that they all share the same work ethic. They offer a very personal service, which is highly responsive and they are

accountable throughout. Theale Gas enjoys fantastic feedback and most of this feedback comments on the friendliness of the team and tidiness of their work. You can find these testimonials on their website at: www.thealegas.co.uk/reviews/ To give you an idea of the kind of things that people are saying, Lisa V shared her feedback. She said, “Have just had a new boiler fitted by Theale Gas. Excellent service from Jon - quick and efficient with minimal disruption. Very favourable pricing too. Would definitely recommend.”

Jon has lived in Theale now for almost ten years and loves being part of the community. He really came into his own during the COVID lock down earlier in the year when he was contacted by the Burghfield COVID support group who called upon him when elderly or vulnerable residents found themselves with no heating or hot water. He just couldn’t leave them high and dry and made sure that they weren’t left struggling.

jon@thealegas.co.uk /Thealegas @ThealeGas 07979 542998

Accredited Installer

SPECIAL OFFER

£100 CASH BACK WITH EVERY NEW BOILER INSTALLATION!*

No wonder the community thinks so highly of Theale Gas. Jon’s customers just keep on recommending him and the business now works across Berkshire and into Tadley and Basingstoke.

Next time you need to contact a gas or heating engineer, or have a plumbing problem that needs looking at, remember that Jon comes highly recommended by many readers, so do give him a call.

*For every new boiler installation booked before the end of Decemeber 2020

25

Pink Pages: Trades & Services

James W Fisher Property Maintenance

PAINTING & DECORATING With our extensive range of facilities and FREE services, can you afford to go anywhere else for your vehicle maintenance needs?

SERVICING MOT TESTING DIAGNOSTICS MECHANICAL REPAIRS MOT TESTING TRACKING / ALIGNMENT WHILE YOU WAIT TYRES / BATTERIES / EXHAUSTS TYRES ALL MAKES FREE COLLECTION / DELIVERY

AIR CON

SERVICE & REGAS

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

COVID-19 UPDATE During this period of uncertainty, we will be offering a free of charge collection and delivery service for your vehicle.

Each vehicle will be picked up with the minimum contact.

Keys will be fully sanitised before returning.

Payment can be made via the phone or BACS HYGIENE: Hand sanitiser & disinfection wipes at all stations.

Reorganising and disinfection of all workspaces.

All employees encouraged to follow all hygiene protocols recommended by the World Health Organisation.

All vehicles sanitised upon completion before being returned.

SUPPLIERS We are in daily contact with our suppliers to ensure we can supply and fit to all makes & models. We also have dedicated staff available to pick up and drop off your vehicle.

0118 970 2222 www.mendemmotors.com 4, Stacey Industrial Park, Silchester Rd, Tadley RG26 3PY

26

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 ••• • • • •• • • •• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • e: tadley@barn-store.co.uk

www.barn-store.co.uk

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

To advertise, call 0118 933 3311

Garden Garden Maintenance Garden Buildings Grass Cutting Gutter Clearance Household Decorating Basic plumbing Household Repairs

eye

Fence Maintenance Hedge Cutting Patio Cleaning Leaf Clearance Autumn Preparation Fully Insured Competitive Rates

07568 570802 or 0118 405 0031 /handyhomesgardens

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

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

Pest Control

CALL YOUR LOCAL REMOVALS COMPANY ON

Pest Control Control Services 0118Limited 983 1311

738950 or 0778 7535014 Control Services 07850 Limited

PACKING - STORAGE - REMOVALS - RELOCATIONS - PIANOS

ASHLEYSREMOVALS@BTCONNECT.COM

We are local family company of 20 years WWW.ASHLEYSREMOVALSANDSTORAGE-READING.CO.UK specialising in the discreet removal of:

We are local family company of 20 years Wasps, Hornets, *Bees,of: Rats, specialising in the discreet removal

Mice, Moles, Woodworm, Ants, Fleas, Flies, Moths, Bed Wasps, Hornets, *Bees, Rats, Mice, Moles, Bugs, Beetles, Cockroaches, Rabbits and more

Woodworm, Ants, Fleas, Flies, Moths, Bed SAME DAY ATTENDANCE CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED Bugs, Beetles, Cockroaches, Rabbits and more BPCA Members - RSPH Certified - Fully Insured SAME DAY ATTENDANCE

CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED

01635 250 852

BPCA Members - RSPH Certified - Fully Insured www.control-services.co.uk * Please be aware Bees should only be treated if really necessary.

We are a Burghfield-based company with 25 years01635 experience of professional 250 852 control & removal of:

Wasps, Hornets, Rats, Mice, Moles,www.control-services.co.uk Woodworm, Ants, Fleas, Flies, * Please be aware Bees should only be treated if really necessary.

Moths, Bed Bugs, Beetles, Cockroaches and more...

07557 737434 BPCA MEMBERS - RSPH CERTIFIED - FULLY INSURED info@control-services.co.uk www.pestcontrolberkshire.com AS FEATURED ON

QUALITY KITCHEN MAKEOVERS BY LOCAL PROFESSIONALS

SAME DAY ATTENDANCE

DO YOU DREAM OF A NEW KITCHEN? 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

28

®

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

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

To advertise, call 0118 933 3311

eye

29

UPVC & Aliminium: Windows - Doors Conservatories - Facias - Soffits & Guttering For a friendly, no obligation chat about your windows, please call:

0118 930 5757

Windows & Doors

www.tailormadewindows.co.uk

Windows & Doors

REGISTERED IN ENGLAND: UNIT 2 JAMES LANE, BURGHFIELD, RG7 1NB

Registered office: Field Close, Burghfield Common

Registered in England: Tailormade Windows & Doors of Berkshire Ltd. Unit 2 James Lane, Burghfield, RG7 1NB

Windows & Doors - Berkshire RG7 & BEYOND

CATKINS BOARDING CATTERY Covered fresh air pens, Insulated & heated cabins (personal inspections welcome)

Established over 30 years

0118 970 0296

Threeways, Silchester Road, Pamber Heath

Please mention Village Eye when responding to adverts.

29

Pink Pages: Trades & Services

MTJ Plastering We’ll get rid of unsightly ceilings & walls

Roller Garage Doors Centre

✓✓ Fully insulated ✓✓ Custom made & British built ✓✓ Free no obligation quotations ✓✓ Best Price Guarantee ✓✓ Free 7 year motor warranty

Fitting Garage Doors since 1995

Before

With more than 18 years of experience in plastering, you can expect the highest standards and an excellent finish every time.

FREE

7 YEAR MOTOR WARRANTY

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

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

Manufactured by SWS UK

www.rollergaragedoorscentre.co.uk

After 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

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

07789 902 091 0118 933 2121

SOUTHERN M BILITY SERVICES Powerchairs

Mobility Scooters

Walking Aids

Riser Recliner Chairs

Bathroom Aids

Electric Beds

Wheelchairs

Living Aids

Mobility Equipment Hire

e: info@southernmobilityservices.co.uk w: www.southernmobilityservices.co.uk

Unit 9 Grafton Way West Ham Ind Est Basingstoke RG22 6HY

30

01256 335900

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

To advertise, call 0118 933 3311 • Deluxe holiday retreat for cats • Ultimate comfort and security • 5 star purpose built PVCu cattery • Heated bedroom and large play area • Individual and family units • Peaceful rural setting • Convenient for M4/A33

eye

“A luxury country retreat for your cat near Mortimer”

Official 5 star rating from WBC

countrylanecathotel.co.uk

Licensee: Deanna Johnson. West Berkshire District Council License no.: 17/01619/LWA/EGM

Reservations: 07805 006 998

cats@countrylanecathotel.co.uk

Andy ’s Tiling & Plastering

PLEASE CALL FOR A QUOTE

07952 517 246

creativeconstruction.eu@googlemail.com

(Theale Based)

Any kind of wall & floor tiling. Also, Painting & Decorating

Please mention Village Eye when responding to adverts.

31

Pink Pages: Trades & Services

TREE SERVICES

TADLEY HEATING SERVICES EXPERIENCED SERVICE AT COMPETITIVE 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.

. 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

Call Phil Capel on:

0118 901 07702 0118 9017970 7970 - - 07702 574574 542 542

07760 759318

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

ths.ltd@outlook.com /tadleyheatingservices 19 Hamble Drive , Tadley, Hampshire, RG26 3UN

combatpestsolutions.com

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

32

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

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

OTHER SERVICES Heat Treatment Fogging Services Dead Animal Removal

HEATING & PLUMBING

GasSafe registered Heating Engineers offering a wide range of plumbing and heating services, including fixed price boiler installations, boiler replacements, fault finding, servicing and repairs.

a local family run business

• Boiler Repairs • Boiler Servicing • Boiler Replacements • Underfloor Heating • Central Heating Controls • Hot Water Systems Please call David White on:

Foxcombe Drive, Reading, England RG31 5HS

To advertise, call 0118 933 3311

07939 131553 /falconheatingltd

eye

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

Windows - Doors - Orangeries - 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.

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Co-educational day and boarding school for 11 - 18

“The quality of the pupils’ academic and other achievements is excellent.”

ISI Inspection Report, November 2019

Is Drama Class Wrong for a Shy Child?

Have you seen a change in your child since schools were closed?

Are they a little more anxious and not their usual happy self? You might be surprised how much a drama class can help children to overcome their worries.

EXTENSIVE LOCAL AND REGIONAL BUS ROUTES UPCOMING OPEN EVENTS:

Think again.

(BOOKING ESSENTIAL)

A good drama class will certainly not expect your child to stand alone in front of a class and perform. They will not put them on the spot or make them feel uncomfortable. A StageAbility drama class will teach your child the skills to overcome different obstacles and - when they are ready - take small steps out of their comfort zone, which will build their confidence and self-belief. A lot of this learning is done through games and fun exercises, so much so, that they often don’t even realise that they’re learning!

• Open Days

Saturday 17 October Sunday 18 October • Sixth Form Taster Day

Friday 13 November

Now taking registrations

BOOK YOUR SPACE: admissions@pangbourne.com 0118 976 7415 • pangbourne.com

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The StageAbility team delights in seeing students building their confidence and self-esteem week by week. Hundreds of parents have been truly astounded by the changes they see in their child - sometimes even after just a few weeks.

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

If you, as a parent, have never been part of a drama class yourself, you would be forgiven for thinking that drama would be the very worst thing for a shy child.

OPEN 7.30AM TO 6.30PM

Drama Classes are running locally on: Mondays: St John’s Hall, Mortimer Wednesdays Westwood Farm Junior School Thursdays Trinity Church, Earley Book a free trial at: https://stageability.class4kids.co.uk

“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

Exceptional Education in Extraordinary Times

The extraordinary events of the pandemic are something that very few could have foreseen, and schools are no exception.

Challenged with delivering months of effective, accessible learning from a distance, primary schools found themselves faced with the additional hurdle of making this delivery safe and suitable for young children.

“Our first priority during lockdown was to keep our children safe online”, says Jane O’Halloran, head teacher at The Cedars Independent School in Aldermaston. “We used Microsoft Teams as a platform to deliver a full, daily timetable of live, teacher led lessons. Not only did this support our working parents, it ensured that each pupil continued to receive the highly personalised, focused learning that The Cedars is known for.”

Since September, there has been much talk in the news of the need for children to ‘catch up’ with lost learning.

“Our online programme was as comprehensive as it possibly could be, but equally we recognised a need to identify any inadvertent gaps and support the emotional well-being of our pupils. Our complimentary Summer School offered children a week of Covid secure, in-school learning, where work began on this support.

With the Autumn term underway, we remain focused on accelerating progress and, behind the scenes, preparing for any eventual second lock-down.”

Despite this intense focus on accelerating progress, Jane recognises that the core work of schools during these extraordinary times goes far beyond the academic, “The lives of our children, both at school and home, have been significantly impacted by the pandemic. As such a small school ‘family’, our first role will always be to offer our children a safe, reassuring and happy place to be – whether that means a smiling face at the car to meet them, a familiar timetable and environment, or a surprise visit from the ice cream van, happiness must always come first”.

If you would like to find out more about what The Cedars can offer your son or daughter, please contact us to book a place on one of our informal Open Mornings.

What Other Parents Say About The Cedars Lock Down experience: Y5 Parent, Joanna, says: “We have been blown away with the amazing support and education that the children have been given…we feel so lucky that our daughter has a place at such a wonderfully caring and organised school.”

Y2 Parent, Christopher, says: “We have been thrilled with the way our daughter has been supported during such a stressful time. The commitment of the staff and their ability to adapt to online teaching has been exceptional.”

Y3 Parent, Simona, says: “The Cedars have been outstanding in their care and planning. We couldn’t have asked for more.”

Autumn Open Mornings Places available in all year groups Come along for an informal visit and find more about our school.

Saturday 10th October 9:30 - 12:00 Saturday 7th November 9:30 – 12:00 Booking Essential – vicky@thecedarsschool.co.uk or call 01189714251

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

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@villageeyemag

35

Luckle HOUSE SCHOOL

Appoints New Head Luckley House School is delighted to announce the appointment of Mrs Areti Bizior to succeed Mrs Tudor as the Head of Luckley House School from September 2020.

Mrs Bizior joins Luckley House from Downe House School where she was the Deputy Headmistress. She was at Downe House for seven years and, prior to that, was Assistant Headmistress at Queen Anne’s School in Caversham and Head of House at St. George’s, Ascot.

Mrs Bizior studied at the University of South Africa where she majored with Distinction in a Bachelor of Science degree (BSc) and gained further Distinctions in both an Educational Leadership & Management degree (BEd) and a PGCE. She is currently completing an MBA with University College London. In addition she is a published author with Oxford University Press and a former examiner for AQA. Her teaching subjects are Economics, Business and Computer Science.

Mrs Bizior has a tremendous breadth of experience at senior levels in the Independent sector and, as a committed Christian, is fully in sympathy with the school’s Christian ethos. She also serves as a Regulatory Compliance and Education Inspector with the Independent Schools Inspectorate and has been a Governor at Holme Grange where she chaired the Marketing Committee.

Luckley House’s Board of Governors is very glad indeed to have been able to appoint someone of Mrs Bizior’s stature to succeed Mrs Tudor as Head of the School.

She joins them at a hugely exciting time in the School’s development and she will be warmly welcomed to the Luckley House community.

Mrs Bizior is very much looking forward to meeting prospective families in the near future.

OUR DOORS ARE OPEN OPEN MORNING Saturday 17 Oct 2020, 9am

OPEN HOUSE Fridays at 9.30am

Book online at: www.luckleyhouseschool.org Luckley House School, Wokingham Tel: 0118 978 4175 Email: Registrar@luckleyhouseschool.org

Luckle HOUSE SCHOOL

Excellent all-round education for boys and girls aged 11-18 years

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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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eye Win!

Kerry Thomas HIghfield Park

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ARE YOU? ToTocontribute, contribute,advertise advertiseororletletususknow knowyour yournews newsplease pleasecall call0118 0118933 933 3311 3311 or or email email hello@villageeye.co.uk hello@villageeye.co.uk

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37

eye on the Movies

Watch this! with Rob Barnes

to 007, but it all undermines the deep complexity of the time inversion concept Nolan is intent on exploring.

A time bending technical masterpiece that outsmarts itself The latest release from visionary director Christopher Nolan known best for The Dark Knight trilogy and time bending blockbusters Inception, Interstellar and Dunkirk, was billed to get bums back on cinema seats post lockdown. Blending philosophical time shifting narratives with mainstream action, sci-fi and adventure Nolan’s films delight and baffle in equal measure rewarding repeat viewings with hidden meanings and multiple interpretations.

Tenet, billed as a time bending homage to James Bond, is no different and whilst it’s arguably a technical masterclass in high concept cinema it’s complexity left me feeling a little dazed and confused.

After a botched undercover mission to intercept a terrorist attack an unnamed CIA operative, known as The Protagonist (John David Washington), sacrifices himself only to wake up in the hands of a mysterious intelligence organisation and armed with the codename Tenet.

He’s introduced to a technology manufactured in the future that uses inverted entropy to fire bullets in reverse. Via an Indian arms dealer the cartridges of the bullet lead him to Russian Oligarch Andrei Sator (Kenneth Branagh) who is stockpiling the tech to arm the ultimate weapon to trigger World War III and wipe out the past. Enlisting the help of swarve handler Neil (Robert Pattinson) and Sator’s estranged wife Kat (Elizabeth Debicki) they embark on a journey of international

BOOK OF THE MONTH

espionage to thwart his plans that unfolds in both real and inverted time.

Now I generally enjoy international spy thrillers, and whilst I know Nolan prioritises pseudoscience over storytelling, I was expecting a little more narrative depth.

Nolan classics such as Inception and The Prestige work so well because whilst they play fast and loose with reality, crucially you still invest in the story and characters.

This is where Tenet falls a little short. Instead we get familiar tropes that feel lazy: a mysterious and futuristic tech, the threat of World War III, the pantomime villain intent on destroying the world, the damsel in distress, the two dimensional alpha male immune from injury, and the wise-cracking sidekick loaded with one liners. No doubt this box ticking exercise is a clear nod

On the subject of the movie’s central concept of ‘inverted entropy’ scientist Barbara (Clémence Poésy) has wise words for us all when telling The Protagonist ‘Don’t try to understand it. Feel it.’ A clear message from Nolan to suspend all disbelief and enjoy the ride. I certainly did feel it for the first half of the movie. The grand scale, tension and drama of the opening set piece at the opera house was utterly thrilling, the relentless pace was exhilarating and the slick humour of Robert Pattinson all gelled surprisingly well.

However the feels slowly faded as the increasingly extravagant time shifting sequences made it harder and harder to follow.

Impressive as it was by the end I had quite literally lost the plot, and with it much of my initial excitement.

On the plus side there’s no doubt Nolan once again proves he’s the modern day master of spectacle. The scope of the cinematography is majestic, punctuated perfectly by Hans Zimmer’s foreboding music score. However, visuals and atmosphere will only get you so far and for me the lack of storytelling in favour of overly confusing mind games sees Tenet ultimately outsmart itself.

3/5

GOODNIGHT STORIES FOR REBEL GIRLS

BY ELENA FAVILLI AND FRANCESCA CAVALLO

Not a traditional novel here but definitely worth a read. This incredibly popular book (which has sparked a second volume) presents the stories of 100 amazing women who have made contributions to society. It is aimed at telling girls that they can achieve anything that they put their mind to and that their gender should not hold them back. It challenges female stereotypes and inspires girls to aim high in their career choices.

Each story is told on a single page, along with an illustration of the woman and this simple format gives a fantastic introduction to their lives. From mathematicians like Ada Lovelace (who actually built a machine and wrote the first computer programme back in the 19th century) to authors like the Bronte Sisters who defied the expectations of their patriarchal society. There are also tales of astronomers, activists, lawyers, chefs, naturalists, journalists, motocross racers, and even a tattoo artist.

Following the huge success of this book a version aimed at boys has also been written: Stories for Boys Who Dare to be Different which also challenges male stereotypes which say that you have to be tough in order to succeed.

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review by Willow Coby @villageeyemag

Harvest:

A special time of year at Jubilee Day Nursery Harvest is a special time of year when we give thanks for all that we have and try to help those less fortunate than ourselves.

To celebrate Harvest, the children at Jubilee Day Nursery have been very busy growing and harvesting crops with our very own gardener, Sonja.

The fruit and vegetables that they picked - along with a huge collection of tins and food parcels from the parents and nursery staff - have all been donated to West Berkshire Food Bank.

Not only is this supporting a great cause, it has been a fantastic way to teach young children about the importance of sharing.

To celebrate Harvest, the children also came to nursery dressed as farmers and had plenty of fun learning Harvest songs, sharing Autumnal stories and getting messy with plenty of harvest-themed activities.

Why not visit our Facebook page to see just how much fun we had!

Jubilee Day Nursery and its term-time sister nursery, Jubilee Gems, are set in over 60 acres of private gardens and woodland, with a working farm.

Situated in Padworth, Berkshire, the nurseries are central between Newbury, Reading and Basingstoke.

Jubilee Day Nursery and Jubilee Gems are open to all children from three months to five years of age.

The nurseries continue to adhere to the Government’s protective guidelines regarding COVID-19.

For more information about Jubilee Day Nursery or to book a visit: www.jubileedaynursery. co.uk or contact us on 0118 970 1600 For more information about Jubilee Gems or to book a visit: www.jubileegems.co.uk or contact us on 0118 983 4018

Give

For more information please contact: Jubilee Day Nursery - 0118 970 1600 www.jubileedaynursery.co.uk

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or c i Tr IS THE USUAL HALLOWEEN CANCELLED THIS YEAR?

carve Why wpekin t pum wesea n Hallo We think of the Halloween pumpkin lantern as an American invention but in fact it was the Irish who took the tradition of carving pumpkins to America, except the original Jack O’Lantern was not a pumpkin because they didn’t exist in Ireland. Celtic cultures actually carved turnips on All Hallows’ Eve and placed a glowing piece of coal or a candle in them, to ward off evil spirits.

There are many stories behind these turnip lanterns but one of the most popular comes from The Tale of Stingy Jack.

Stingy Jack was a grumpy old drunkard who liked to play malicious tricks on just about everyone including his family, friends and his mother. He was proud of his antics and boasted that he could trick the Devil himself. The Devil heard about Jack and paid him a visit. Jack was as good as his word and tricked the Devil into climbing up an apple tree. Once the Devil was in the tree, Stingy Jack hurriedly placed crosses around the base of its trunk. The Devil couldn’t touch the crosses, so he was stuck in the tree. Stingy Jack made the Devil promise him not to take his soul when he died.

40 40

Reluctantly the Devil agreed, and Stingy Jack removed the crosses, and allowed the Devil to climb back down.

Many years later, when Jack died, he found his way to the pearly gates of Heaven. Saint Peter told him that because he’d been mean and cruel and had led a miserable, worthless life he could not let him enter Heaven. Stingy Jack then went down to Hell. The Devil smiled mischievously and said he was bound by the promise he’d made in the apple tree and would not allow him to enter Hell. Stingy Jack became really scared.

He had nowhere to go and was doomed to wander about forever in the dark Netherworld between heaven and hell.

He protested to the Devil that there was no light, so the Devil tossed him a piece of coal from the flames of Hell. Jack always carried a turnip with him because it was one of his favourite foods.

He hollowed out the turnip and placed the glowing coal the Devil had given him inside. From that day onward, Stingy Jack roamed the earth without a resting place, lighting his way as he went with his ‘Jack O’ Lantern’.

On all Hallows’ eve, it became the tradition for Irish people to hollow out Turnips, swedes, potatoes and beets. They placed a little light in them to ward off evil spirits and keep Stingy Jack away.

These were the original Jack O’ Lanterns. In the 1800’s waves of Irish people travelled to America in search of better lives. These Irish immigrants quickly discovered that American Pumpkins were bigger and much easier to carve, so they began to use pumpkins for Jack O’ Lanterns. Eventually this new trend found its way back across the Atlantic to Ireland and the UK.

ck Treat Eye on Fun

eye

or

Shhh, don’t tell the kids. But trick or treating looks like it will be off this year. In the era of social distancing, the thought of calling on multiple households for sweets that have passed through multiple hands suddenly doesn’t seem so appealing.

So, is Halloween cancelled?

Trick-or-Treat is either a fun chance to dress-up and claim free sweets from neighbours, or it’s an antisocial American travesty which has infiltrated these shores. I happen to fall squarely in the latter camp, my kids, the former.

They start planning their outfits in March. I don’t want to rain on their scary parades, but what should we do about Halloween in the face of a global pandemic?

It’s not certain that any of our neighbours will actually welcome my young visitors (or plague-bearers as I’ve come to think of them of them since their return to school) to their doorsteps, no matter how cute their costumes or beguiling their manners.

And frankly I’d freak out about them grabbing handfuls of potentially COVID-coated Crunchie bars, so I’m not exactly devastated that I won’t have to accompany them door-to-door and smile apologetically as they beg for treats. But neither am I a total killjoy, so I’ve come up with some ideas for alternative activities:

Whatever you decide, have a Happy COVID-safe Halloween.

Hang a spooky piñata for your children in your own back garden.

Create a haunted house for your kids at home. Let them dress up and be scared in a fun-but-safe way.

Create a spooky scavenger hunt inside and out. Leave clues, or a trail of blood, or spiders.

Snuggle up and watch a ‘scary’ movie... something like Monsters Inc or The Corpse Bride (depending on age).

Read age-appropriate ghost stories in the dark in front of the fire, or if the weather is favourable, go outside, snuggle under blankets, light pumpkins and toast marshmallows on a camping stove or fire pit. That’s the sort of trick-or-treat night I could get behind.

I suppose we should also leave a bowl of Quality Street and bottle of hand sanitizer on the doorstep and wave at the hardcore trick-or-treaters from the safety of the upstairs window.

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IS THIS AUTUMN’S BEST KEPT SECRET?

eye

Did you know that all over the world there are hidden items that people search for with a gps enabled device such as a smartphone?

T

here are over 3 million hidden geocaches waiting to be found in this “modern day treasure hunt”. Geocaching to many is not very well known and considered something new – but in fact has been around for over 20 years now.

We may have been home schooling or looking for ways to get out and about recently, and Geocaching can help with all of that and much more besides. It is a brilliant combination of physical exercise and mental stimulation combined with opportunity to learn and be part of a global community.

The Scouts have a badge for it, the National Trust promote it and perhaps you could start it as well? To get started you download one of the Geocaching apps and create a FREE account.

As you can see from the map you don’t need to go far for your next adventure – there are 1000’s of geocaches almost on your step right here in the RG7 postcode and surrounding areas.

This brilliant family friendly activity is a fun way to get outside and have a bit of an adventure, like when children of a certain age would spend all day out playing in the woods and fields. You get to learn so much more about your local area, discovering hidden footpaths and little gems of tranquil locations. As you find more geocaches you start to develop a natural curiosity of the things around you and notice detail in things you never spotted before.

by Adam Renshaw

the Geochaching Guy

You may be crossing little bridges, exploring graveyards and reading tombstones to learn about local heroes and their families.

and after you handle it with some anti bac handgel - and always sign your name in the log book too!

As you get more into geocaching you may start to explore further and start getting into climbing trees, finding more extreme caches where you may need to scuba dive or row out to an island to get the hidden container, or you just take an easy stroll in your local village.

Each geocache is rated for its difficulty and terrain. You often get a hint such as base of tree to help you find what you are looking for. It is advised you always take a pen, pencil, torch and tweezers with you as some of the containers are VERY small. The larger ones often contain SWAG (Something we all get). These can be a selection of little items you get to keep, but the cache is always replaced as found ready for the next person to find. Make sure you give the cache a quick wipe down before

You will probably get to meet others doing this over time as there is a large active community in UK that would in normal time be arranging events to meet other and share tips and stories. There are many Facebook groups you can get involved with (just search), and even a dedicated UK Geocaching digital magazine you can subscribe to. Visit www.pocketmags.com/ uk-cache-mag

To find a cache near you visit www.geocaching.com

You could do this as something to pass few minutes or spend a whole day taking in a nice scenic walk and perhaps visiting a few pubs or even discover an independent coffeeshop or farm shop on your travels.

Did you know you could end up paddling in the ford at Silchester Brook as you go onto to find the site of the Roman Town Calleva Atrebatum? Another trip may take you into the heart of ancient local woodland - ideal for spotting Bluebells at the right time of year.

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Childcare, at the heart of the community We are proud to oer a welcoming and exible nursery setting caring from 3 months to 5 years between 7:30am and 6pm.

Chosen by many parents because of our homely environment and we pride ourselves on being able to oer a very personal service ensuring your child has the best possible care.

A comprehensive risk assessment and Covid 19 policy are in place and ensure a safe environment at all times.

Spaces available Call us for more details

T: 01189 303000 | www.tigersdaynurseries.co.uk 43

no tricks

just treats

with no stamp duty!

contact our mortimer office: phone: 0118 467 7999 email: mortimer@davidcliff.com visit: davidcliff.com 44Offices also at Wokingham, Binfield and Park Lane, London