Village Eye Magazine January 2022

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VILLAGE

Priceless!

We’ve been connecting local people to local businesses for 10 years!

vourite The area’s fagazine. monthly ma

Issue 108 January 2022 reaching 13,000 households

Win a £100 Valentine’s Bouquet!

Don’t Trash it.

Cash it!

WIN A SPRING CLEAN FOR YOUR HOME

So much more than a furniture store...

2022 ‘OUT OUT’ Event Guide

Joe Wicks

This Month’s Cover Sponsor

THE AREA’S FAVOURITE LOCAL MONTHLY MAGAZINE

EACH MONTH WE DELIVER DOOR TO DOOR TO 13,000 11,500 HOMES & BUSINESSES IN:

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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Service | MOT | Repairs | Car Sales www.spratleys.co.uk Spratleys January WInter Sourcing 2022.indd 1

60/62 Victoria Road | Mortimer | RG7 3SG

09/12/2021 09:50

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WINNER

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16

JOE WICKS

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INSPIRED HEALTHY EATING FROM THE NATION’S FAVOURITE

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PE TEACHER FOLLOW US TODAY & STAY UPDATED LOCALLY

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What’s inside...

6-7 Sofa, Tables, Chairs, Desks, Beds & So Much More.

With a seven-barn showroom located just off the A4 at Midgham, if you’re planning on updating your furniture this January, we introduce you to Pine & Oak, much more than just a furniture store.

9. The Power of Hypnotherapy Qquitting a habit or need help to stay on track with ‘life’ in general? We meet local Hypnotherapist, Louise Sheppard 14. Eye on Celebrity The Nation’s favourite PE teacher, Joe Wicks helps us kickstart our New Year’s healthy eating habits with a tasty recipe for Smoky Sweet Potato Chilli.

22-23. On The Move Are you planning a home move in 2022? Perhaps your dream home is right here. Take a look at what’s on offer…

24-31 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.

40. Essential Out Out Guide We’ve pulled together a whole heap of fun-filled events which are in the planning for 2022.

From Festivals - Fetes to Dances and Balls, It’s not hard to see why this area has a reputation for its community spirit!

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We have three great competitions to kick the year off too. If you fancy winning a £100 Valentine’s bouquet with Georgies Florist, a three-course meal for two with wine at The Six Bells, Beenham or a full spring clean for your home with Tidy Time Services, get entering now! Remember, real readers (like you) win all of our competitions!

Our cover sponsor this month is local furniture retailer, Pine & Oak. With a fabulous sale now on, you are invited to visit their large seven-barn showroom in Midgham which includes a whole barn dedicated entirely to sofas!

Their Midgham showroom is also home to their clearance outlet – a great place to find amazing deals all year round. Whether you wish to completely re-furnish your home, business office or just fancy changing a single item of furniture, pop along and visit them today.

January is always a great month

Gold Member

PINKTOMATO

As ever, we’d like to say a humungous thank you to all our advertisers, our contributors and our readers for making Village Eye the area’s favourite local community magazine.

If you are responding to any advert or feature, please do remember to mention the magazine to them.

eye

We’ve been connectin local people g to local businesse s for 10 years!

households

keep it local!

At Eye HQ we are raring to go and are already working on the February issue! So, if you have a business you’d like to promote, an event you’d like us to shout about or news you’d like to share with 13,000 other households in the area in 2022, please do get in touch.

reaching 13,000

Eye Magazines 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

to make changes - a cliche, I know - but it’s absolutely true - a new year, new you! So whether your New Year Resolutions are to be more mindful of your diet, start a new fitness plan or to go greener, you’ll find the pages packed full of ideas to help you along the way. We’ve also put together an ‘Essential Out Out Guide’ (p.40) which is full of events being planned by locals for your entertainment in 2022. Diaries at the ready!

January 2022

42. YMCA Padworth, A Versitile Venue If you are looking for a local, versatile venue, we check out the facilities available to hire over at the newly rebuilt YMCA in Padworth.

Goodbye 2021 and hello 2022!

For most of us, a new year means a new chapter and a fresh opportunity to make a positive difference to our community, family and friends.

It’s also a time for planning new adventures and chance make some new memories. (Somehow, I’ve already committed to taking part in two endurance races and a cheerleading competition - all new to me!)

Issue 108

16. Don’t Trash It - Cash It! yIf you’ve spent the festive break having a bit of a declutter, we take a look at some of the easy ways you can turn your unwanted items into gold ol’ fashioned hard cash!

20. Eye on Style Holly shares her January inspired Home Styling tips including faux-fireplaces!.

Hello January!

VILLAGE

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

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

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Priceless!

The area’s favourite monthly magazine.

Win a £100 Valentine’s Bouquet!

Don’t Trash it.

Cash it!

WIN A SPRING CLEAN FOR YOUR HOME

So much more than a furniture store...

2022 ‘OUT OUT’ Event Guide

Hellen & the Team x

Editor: Hellen Shaw Sub Editor: Jackie Stuart Social/Design: Holly Chrisp Beauty: Amelia Baird

Film Buff: Gardening: Finance: Travel: Fitness:

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

Joe Wicks THE AREA’S

EACH MONTH

FAVOURITE

This Month’s

Cover Sponsor

LOCAL MONTHL Y MAGAZI

WE DELIVER Burghfield Common DOOR TO | Burghfield DOOR TO Ufton Nervet Village | Beech 13,000 11,500 HOMES | Aldermaston Hill | Mortimer & BUSINESSE | Padworth | Theale | | Pamber S IN: Spencers Heath | Tadley Wood | Silchester | Baughurst | Sulhamstead | Three Mile Cross | Bramley

NE

Rob Barnes Jordan Curtis Mark Penston Michelle Goulding Steve Shreeve

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H

aving watched the new Theale Community Fire Station take shape month by month at its site on the A4 in Theale, it is exciting to announce that firefighters are now serving the community from this new base after successfully relocating from Dee Road Fire Station in Tilehurst.

The relocation has been made possible thanks to a team effort involving staff from across the Service, led by the Capital Projects Team, who have worked effectively with the contractors on site.

Contractors Knights Brown began the build in January 2020 and despite the challenges of working during a global pandemic, they have successfully completed the build and recently handed over the site to RBFRS. This new station supports the ongoing commitment to work collaboratively with our emergency service partners, offering a shared location for Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service,

Thames Valley Police and South Central Ambulance Service. As well as improvements for all Services in the efficient use of public funds, the relationships and opportunities of working more closely together is expected to support greater collective effectiveness for the services they provide to the public.

Councillor Angus Ross, Lead Member for Strategic Assets on Royal Berkshire Fire Authority, said: “I am delighted that Theale Community Fire Station is now operational. This represents a significant step forward and is the culmination of years of hard work from teams across Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service.

/EYEMAGAZINES

To find out more about the project, visit rbfrs.co.uk/theale

“The construction of this community fire station will help to deliver on our strategic commitment to ensure that our fire stations, people and resources are placed firmly at the heart of the local communities they are serving. I am sure that the new station will be a facility that the

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community will be proud of for many years to come.”

Although crews have moved into the new facility, several other teams will relocate in the coming weeks, as well as partners from Thames Valley Police. After this process is completed, they intend to welcome local residents to see the new facility, with the official opening ceremony planned to take place in spring 2022.

hen Christmas is over and all those new toys that used to hold so much appeal are now shown little interest, it can feel like an uphill struggle to keep up with the demand for stimulating toys. When children are young, they are on a voyage of discovery but, in most cases, budgets don’t run to a constant supply of new toys and, even if budget is no issue, increased consumerism isn’t doing the planet any favours.

Have you heard of a toy library? They are great for providing your kids, grandkids or young visitors with a variety of fun toys and puzzles without breaking the bank.

It saves you trying to find more storage in the house and for the

eco conscious, it helps you feel better about reusing plastic toys.

There are several toy libraries in the local area including Mortimer and Tadley.

Burghfield and Mortimer Toy Library runs from the Mortimer Methodist Church on the 4th Saturday of the month from 10am -11am.

The Toy Library is run by volunteers so that toys can be hired cheaply.

If you are going to be a regular visitor, you can pay £20 and benefit from (mostly) unlimited toy hires for a year. If the hire is for a party or visiting children you can hire toys individually . Prices for individual toys vary from 50p to £1 a month for most toys.

There are a few big toys, too, including Jumperoos at £2.50 or the Thomas Superstation at £4.00.

Anyone can go along and browse the toys, but when you are ready to join and fill out the membership form, you will need proof of address.

For more information or a chat about joining the Burghfield and Mortimer Toy Library call Janet Sykes 07733297741.

Tadley Toy Library recently opened in the spring this year from the Link Community Centre and is open between 9am and 3pm Monday to Friday. The Link telephone number for more details is 01189814538.

eye

Comm ity News

SPENCERS WOOD COMPANY SNYK GETS A SPECIAL MENTION

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recent report on the state of the European Tech Industry in 2021 Atomico’s State of European Tech report - both surprised and delighted us when we saw that our very own Spencers Wood made it onto the Top 15 list for tech investment in 2021. And Spencers Wood is in good company with London, Berlin, Paris and Stockholm also on the list. Impressively, Spencers Wood was placed higher on the list than Dublin and Milan for tech investment!

MUMS

Ready, Steady,

How could that be? This is all because Spencers Wood is home to cybersecurity scaleup Snyk which has been taking the cyber security space by storm in recent years. Thanks Snyk for putting us on the map.

Keep up the good work!

We are pleased to announce that the walking group Ready Steady Mums will be returning to Tadley from January 2022 - launching Thursday 13th January! But it’s not just Mums! If you are a mum, dad, grandparent or carer with a baby, you will be able to book a free space to join as often as you wish for a lovely walk and chat in the local area.

This is a great way to meet other parents and babies locally and best of all, it’s free! The activity is co-ordinated by Hampshire Healthy Families (a partnership of Southern Health & Barnardos).

Would you like to lend a hand? The team are looking for an additional volunteer to help facilitate these lovely weekly walks. If you are interested and have a couple of hours to spare on a Thursday morning, please email Suzanne Shields at: suzanne.shields2@barnardos.org.uk for a chat.

To book onto the walk, visit: www.eventbrite.co.uk and search Tadley

PLEDGE TO CHECK The Reading Lions Club (CIO) is hosting its annual Prostate Cancer Awareness and Free Prostate PSA Test event on 15th January 2022 at the Rutherford Cancer Centre Thames Valley.

The event will run all day (8am6pm) for men aged between 50-75 years old, and there are half hour time slots available to choose from.

Over the years they have tested 8184 men of which 7.25% (593)

is great, Social Media ing your but advertis on it local business be can sometimes in k g a bit like stic to a post-it note en on a your windscre windy day...

of them had a PSA level that was above normal (Amber letter) and abnormal level (Red letter). This test undoubtedly saved many of their lives and highlights the importance of getting tested.

Don’t wait for symptoms, sign up online and get tested for free: https://www.therutherford.com/ reading-lions-free-prostate-psatest-event-2022/registration/

g rtisin e v d A the with

eye gets your

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13,000 copies delivered locally with an estimated 36,000 readers every month

This magazine is read, retained and trusted by locals

ADVERTISE IN THIS MAGAZINE MAGAZINE, OR SEND FLYERS OUT WITH US FROM £55

To find out more please get in touch! 0118 933 3311 hello@villageeye.co.uk

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1000s of products available for same day collection or fast delivery

So much more than a furniture store...

At Pine & Oak Furniture we have showcased the most striking collection of Edge contemporary sculptures for many years.

Emotionally evocative, fiercely modern, yet remaining utterly affordable, Edge Sculpture is designed and produced by Matt Buckley in England.

Please immerse yourself in this amazing world and start your collection here.

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P

ine & Oak Furniture Ltd is a locally owned and operated furnishing company based in Berkshire and Hampshire – currently one of the South’s largest furniture retailers!

Founded in 2006 with the aim of providing customers with a diverse range of quality furniture at fair prices. We now have 3 showrooms based at Midgham, Winchester and Winnersh.

Our large seven-barn showroom at Midgham includes a whole barn dedicated entirely to sofas! Our Midgham showroom is also home to our clearance outlet – a great place to find amazing deals all year round. Whether you wish to completely re-furnish your home, business office or just fancy changing a single item of furniture, you’ll find that our showrooms are full of ideas and inspiration - come along and visit us today. We look forward to welcoming you into our stores. All of our stores have vast amounts of products on display, available for you to view and take away on the day! We cover all personal styles – traditional, rustic and modern. Our showrooms possess a relaxed atmosphere, encouraging you to roam as you please. However, our highly trained and knowledgeable team are on hand ready to answer any questions you may have! If you’d prefer to shop from the comfort of your own home, please check out our new website at www.pine-oak.co.uk where you will find our full range.

Bedroom| Dining| Living | Office & Study | Hallway | Garden | Giftware

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t

Dakota

Each piece of Dakota furniture, made from reclaimed timbers, is totally unique with its own personal story to tell.

Midgham Showroom located on A4

0118 230 4084 Unit 2 Kennet Holme Farm Building Midgham | Thatcham | RG7 5UX

SALE NOW ON www.pine-oak.co.uk

Holburn Oak

Each with a radiant warm oak finish and rounded corners, the HO Collection brings a sumptuous and elegant traditional style that is set to complement any interior.

Rustic Plank

One of our best-selling contemporary ranges with plenty of tables,chairs, side-tables and beds to choose from

Midgham Winchester Winnersh

Dorchester Painted

The Dorchester Painted range consists of an ivory/putty painted body with a light oak lacquered top.

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Beenham

‘FAMILY’ OWNED COUNTRY PUB & INN Great Beers, Fantastic Food And A Warm Atmosphere

The Six Bells is a family run pub and restaurant which has been lovingly renovated in 2021 to bring a modern feeling to this historic building.

They offer local draft ales and lagers, an extensive wine list, as well as a delicious seasonal dining menu.

Nestle down by the fireplace for coffee, relax in the sunny conservatory for breakfast or dine in the modern restaurant for dinner, with views into the open kitchen and beer garden.

Offering a selection of mouth-watering traditional and contemporary dishes, it’s not hard to see why they are recieving rave reviews on Tripadvisor. Check out the full menu on their website.

A dog and children friendly pub and inn. Muddy paws and boots are very welcome in the main bar, snug and conservatory.

Book Now

0118 971 3368 info@thesixbells.co.uk www.thesixbells.co.uk

Win

WIN A 3 COURSE MEAL FOR 2 WITH WINE 8

Beenham

Win a 3 course meal for 2

(including starters, mains, desserts & a bottle of wine) by answering this question: The Six Bells has great reviews on Tripadvisor. How many stars do they have?

SCAN ME TO ENTER!

a: 3 b: 4 c: 5

To enter, just visit eyemagazines.co.uk and click on the Competition tab at the top! OR hover your smartphone over the QR code!

Good luck!

Succeed through Hypnotherapy in the comfort of your own home

W

hen Louise Sheppard suffered a devastating loss of a loved one and found herself in the depths of grief, she noticed that the more she practiced self hypnosis, the better she felt and she was gradually able to cope with life again.

Louise discovered the self-hypnosis videos which allowed her to heal herself through using healing meditations on YouTube.

During this transformation she recognised the power of hypnosis and wanted to share this with others in need and so made the decision to train as a Hypnotherapist.

During that training, Louise’s tutor introduced the class to EMDR therapy (eye movement and desensitisation reprocessing) which is a powerful tool in the treatment of traumatised individuals following the painful aftermath of, among others, assault, combat or the death of a loved one. It can be practised alongside hypnotherapy with some amazing results.

Just one session of EMDR, in the privcay of your own home, can have impressive results and here Louise shares two recent case studies.

Joanna’s story Joanna from Spencers Wood lost her father twelve years ago and, even now, couldn’t think or speak about him without breaking down in tears and feeling totally devastated. She wanted to remember the good times rather than the overriding images she had of him so frail in his final days.

For around and hour and a half, Louise used EMDR therapy and then hypnotherapy. After coming out of hypnosis Joanna wanted to talk about her father, but this time there were no tears, she felt so happy as she was

able to remember all the great times spent with him and at last felt at peace.

Sarah’s story Sarah from Calcot contacted Louise to see if she could help with her misaphonia. Misophonia is a condition in which individuals experience intense disgust when they are confronted with sounds made by other human beings. For example, if someone eats around Sarah it is unbearable for her, even if the person eating isn’t doing it noisily. The condition was really affecting her life because something as simple as sitting down for a meal wasn’t an option for Sarah as it was too distressing.

After just one session of around an hour using EMDR and hypnotherapy Louise sat next to Sarah eating an apple.

Sarah couldn’t believe that she wasn’t bothered it and even when Louise began to crunch loudly it really wasn’t bothering her at all. Sarah can now enjoy a meal with her family, something she hadn’t been able to do for years.

If you would like to speak to Louise about how one of

her therapies could help you, or a loved one, to deal with trauma or other psychological conditions, do get in touch to see how she can help. You can call Louise in confidence on 07842 262583 or find her on Facebook.

Search: Hypnotherapist and EMDR Specialist.

Louise Amanda Sheppard

(BA/Dip)

Mobile Hypnotherapy Therapist covering Oxfordshire & Berkshire Hypnotherapy

EMDR Specialist Hypnotherapist

• Pain • Anxiety • Feers • Phobias • Smoking • Weight Management

• Trauma • Victims of Rape • Assault • Combat • Drug Addiction • Bereavement • Fears/Phobias • Anxiety • Depression

(Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing)

In the comfort of your own home

Age Regression/ Past Life Regression Gestalt Therapy/ Dreamwork Parts Therapy

T: 07842 262583 E: lashepphard61@gmail.com

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ABOUT

“These are the Affordable Face Masks everyone is talking about” When it comes to face masks, I can’t get enough – literally. I own about 10 different ones that all claim to do a million different things. However, what I am lacking in the face mask department is an affordable one. So I thought I would do a little research into the range of high street face masks that are amazing but kinder on your purse.

We all know that our skin is ever changing and what may work for one person may not work so well for the next. So, we’ll start with Hydration masks, perfect for skin that needs a little more moisture. Burt’s Bees Hydrating Overnight Mask is a cream-based product with avocado oil at the forefront, Pop this on while you sleep and let the magic start. This product can easily be found in your local chemist or on Amazon for £7.

Next up, let’s focus on those acne-prone skin types: The Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay. This hidden gem is a powerful deep pore cleansing face mask, 100% natural and does not contain any additives, fragrances

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or animal products. In which case, I would say perfect for sore and sensitive acne-prone skin.

The website also provides a step-by-step guide on how to use it correctly and effectively. Well

worth trying out. Find this for £12.99 at www. aztechealingclay.co.uk.

On to oily skin: Cetaphil Pro Dermacontrol Purifying Clay mask has excellent reviews and can be found

in chemists or on Amazon for £20 per pot! Beauty bloggers have been raving about the results of Cetaphil, and we’re here for it! This mask is packed with absorbent bentonite clay that will clear out clogged pores without stripping your skin of that much needed hydration.

Lastly, the final mask I’d like to mention is the Bioderma Sensibio Skin Soothing and Moisturizing Mask. If you know your skin care brands, you’ll know Bioderma is famously suited for sensitive skin and this product is no different.

This mask is designed to zap out any redness and help heal after a tough breakout. You’ll find the Sensibo Mask online at allbeauty.com for an affordable £12.50.

Now, I think it’s time I pop on a mask and catch up on The Crown with a cup of tea…

Ageing positively with Aspire Clinic Frown lines

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If you can relate to any of these, we have the solutions to help you age positively.

Medically-trained staff Harley Street experience Family-run Nurse-led Prestigious, discreet location within Madejski Stadium Free parking Restaurant onsite

Exclusive offer for Village Eye readers

Quote ‘Village Eye’ and purchase £150 vouchers for just £49 to be used towards any positive ageing injectable treatment Ts&Cs: Vouchers can only be used towards injectable treatments such as dermal fillers and wrinkle-relaxing.

Vouchers cannot be used in conjunction with any other discount, voucher or offer.

Vouchers are valid from 4 January 2022 – 31 March 2022. Only one voucher per patient.

0118 931 3575

www.aspireclinic.com

Aspire Clinic | Madejski Stadium | Reading | RG2 0FL

Need Dentures? we can help!

H A V om va is e ila its bl e

ONLINE & VIDEO Mortimer CONSULTATIONS

AVAILABLE NOW Physiotherapy practice

Paul Moorcroft, a clinical dental technologist.

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

BACK OR NECK PAIN?

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

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

ONLINE & VIDEO CONSULTATIONS AVAILABLE NOW

To make an appointment please call:

0118 930 3965

www.abacusdentalstudio.co.uk

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

Tel: 0118 933 3896 Text: 07951 840643

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

ESTABLISHED FOR 20 YEARS, YOUR LOCAL PRIVATE PHYSIOTHERAPY CLINIC.

PRIVATE A personal session is tailored to you and your specific needs.

Please get in touch for Private Studio Sessions

GROUP CLASSES Current timetable: Monday 6:00 pm Village Hall, Bramley Thursday 6:30pm Village Hall, Bramley Friday 10:00am Luci Trendell Yoga studio, Burghfield Please call or email Naomi to book a group session

W W W. N B K P I L AT E S . C O . U K Email: naomi@nbkpilates.co.uk C a l l o r W h a t s a p p : 07 9 6 7 0 1 074 9 All bookings must be made, and paid for, in advance by phone or email.

To contribute, advertise or let us know your news please call 0118 933 3311 or email hello@eyemagazines.co.uk Follow us to keep updated, locally

What’s On Your Bucket List?

What would you do if you knew a loved one didn’t have long?

Bucket List Wishes is a local registered charity set up in memory of a beloved Mum called Jean.

The charity loves to grant end of life wishes to terminally ill adults in her memory and they would love to grant wishes in memory of those you have loved, lost and miss, too.

This is a very special way to remember your own loved ones; by making a monthly donation to the charity and supporting the work of Bucket List Wishes. BLW will add the name of your loved one and a black and white photo of them to the charity’s special photo wall on their ‘Remembering You’ page. The wishes that the charity grant using the Remembering You monthly donations will be shared so that you can read about the wishes your donation helped to grant.

To set up your BLW donation all you need to do is decide on the monthly amount you wish to donate and then contact the team by emailing team@bucketlistwishes.org.uk or call them directly on 07951 400055 If just 100 people donate £20 each month, this could fund at least one wish every month. The charity is run solely by volunteers so 100% of the money that you donate will go towards granting wishes for terminally ill adults.

Thank you for supporting this fundraising campaign and helping the charity to continue their incredible wish-granting work during the toughest of times. It’s been really hard for small

charities to fundraise over the past couple of years because so many fundraising events have been cancelled due to the pandemic. This feels like a fitting way to keep granting wishes and at the same time offering a way for you to remember your loved ones by supporting this wonderful work in their memory.

Do you have a wedding dress, prom

ball gown, evening, party or PROM dress, cocktail dress that you no longer Please consider donating DRESSES wear? any clean and undamaged dresses to Bucket List Wishes. BLW will sell FOR them at a charity dress sale and the SALE proceeds will help to grant more

wishes. The dresses are always affordable costing from £5-£200 per dress. They have a wide variety of styles, sizes and colours and they often post their stock on the ‘Dresses for Bucket List Wishes’ Facebook page. **Exciting news! New local showroom opening soon!** You will be able to drop off your donation or buy a dress at the showroom, have private dress appointments or go along to one of the dress sales across the year.

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A healthy veggie super speedy mid-week dinner

eye On Food

JOE WICKS’ SMOKY SWEET POTATO CHILLI

ENJOY AN EASY MEAT-FREE, ONE POT WINTER WARMER, WITH THIS ‘FAST FOOD’ RECIPE FROM THE BODY COACH. AND IT COULDN’T BE EASIER TO CHUCK TOGETHER…

Joe’s vegetarian take on his already popular, Lean in 15: The Shift Plan, which is the bestselling diet book of all time is available online and in all good bookshops. Inside are a hundred flavour-packed vegetarian recipes, many of which are also vegan, plus three exclusive Body Coach HIIT workouts and a bonus abs workout.

From Lentil bolognese to ‘Creamy’ Butternut Pasta, Veggie Lean in 15 features a fantastic range of meatfree dishes, all prepared in fifteen minutes flat. The recipes are ideal for full and part-time veggies - many of the recipes are vegan - as well as those wishing to cut down on their meat consumption in a healthy and

“

delicious way. There are also plenty of make-ahead ideas to get you prepping like a boss in no time at all.

“I used to think veggie recipes were all boring salads and quinoa, but the more I experiment, the more I see how totally wrong that view is.

Veggie food can be easy, delicious and satisfying when done well, and that’s what this book is all about.

The recipes have the speed and simplicity you’ll be familiar with from my old-school Lean in 15 books, with all the same great taste and flavour.”

Among the pages of Veggie Lean in 15, readers will also find delicious recipes like Avo & Berry Breakfast Pot, Lentil Bolognese and Chickpea, Tomato & Spinach Curry.

Naturally, The Body Coach has also included a bunch of high-intensity interval training exercises (short bursts of intense cardio workouts that take you to the brink of exhaustion in double quick time) – including three brand new ones and a bonus ab workout – and expert training tips to help keep you in trim.

If eating less meat in 2022 is one of your New Year pledges, this book is an absolute must!

(Serves 1)

Preheat oven to 220C (fan 200C, gas 7).

Put your sweet potato on a baking tray. Mix with ½ tbsp of the olive oil and some salt and pepper. Spread out into a single layer so it cooks evenly, then whack in the oven for 20 minutes.

Meanwhile, pour the remaining oil into a saucepan over a medium heat. Tip in the sliced red onion and red pepper, along with a pinch of salt and cook for 7 minutes until soft. Add the garlic, chipotle paste and ground cumin to the pan.

I've dedicated the past 10 years of my life to helping people get fitter, stronger and healthier. I started as a young and ambitious personal trainer, working with clients one-to-one and running my own outdoor boot camps. I then took all my passion and energy for motivating and inspiring people, and put it into my books, social media and, most recently, my new The Body Coach fitness app. Nothing makes me happier than knowing I've helped someone on their journey to become healthier and happier. It's the driving force behind everything I do – and really, I believe it to be my purpose in life.

Joe Wicks Veggie Lean in 15 is published by Pan Macmillan and available online and from all good bookshops.

1 clove garlic, crushed 2 tsp chipotle paste ½ tsp ground cumin 400g tin of chopped tomatoes 400g kidney beans, drained and rinsed Dollop of sour cream A few coriander leaves Grated cheddar, to serve

YOU NEED: 1 sweet potato, peeled and cut into chunks 1½ tbsp olive oil Salt and pepper ½ red onion, finely sliced 1 red pepper, sliced

“

The man who kept the nation moving during lockdown, Joe Wicks, has sold more than 3 million books in the UK alone.

He has more than 4 million followers on Instagram, where fans share their journeys towards a leaner, fitter lifestyle. Now Wicks has brought together all of his favourite ‘veggified’ breakfasts, lunches, snacks and dinners for his latest Lean in 15 cookbook Veggie Lean in 15.

Credit: Maja Smend

Stir, then cook for 1 minute until it smells fragrant.

Pour in the chopped tomatoes and kidney beans. Simmer away for 10 minutes.

Come back to your sweet potato, which should now be soft.

Scrape it into the chilli, then season to taste.

Spoon the chilli into your bowl, dollop on the sour cream, then top with a few coriander leaves and the grated cheese.

Joe Wicks 15

Don’t

trash it Starting the year with a clear out? Why not trade some of your pre-loved clothes?

You know what they say, “One man’s trash is another man’s treasure” meaning that what you may consider worthless could be highly prized or valued by someone else.

And one area where this couldn’t be more true is in the back of your wardrobe - your pre-loved clothes.

Why leave those items stacking up unworn when you can sell them on to an eager buyer, not only making someone happy and making some cash, but also helping the environment. Fast fashion is one of the biggest contributors to the climate crisis so when we buy and sell pre-loved clothes, we’re all doing our bit.

And Ebay isn’t your only option any more, a number of different apps have sprung up to help you to buy and sell your unwanted clothes. So let’s get selling!

Founded in 2012, Hardly Ever Worn It features luxury fashion and designer clothing, shoes and accessories for men, women and kids. Fashion lovers, head here if you have anything, from Dior to Prada, to sell at a heavily discounted price.

The Nextdoor app is a great way to connect with your neighbourhood - exchange news, recommendations and concerns about your local area, as well as being an effective platform to list your unwanted items to sell on to fellow neighbours.

A year younger than Depop, Vinted (founded in 2012) is another great online marketplace to sell, buy and swap clothing and accessories.

Its 37 million members are drawn in by its zero selling fees, the option to sell things as a bundle and the fact Vinted sorts everything including the shipping label.

16

On Depop, sellers list their clothes, shoes or accessories themselves; once sold, the marketplace website and app only takes a 10 percent cut. Depop also has a slew of sustainability goals laid out on its website, including becoming “climate neutral” by the end of 2021.

Since its establishment in 2000, Gumtree has become one of the largest websites in the UK, selling all kinds of everyday items and even larger scale goods including vehicles and properties.

Join Preloved for free, then build up to a premium membership with more perks for £15 a year.

Launched in 1998, this secondhand selling platform now has over 500 categories to list your items under, be it household goods, children’s toys or clothing and footwear.

eBay is no newbie on the secondhand selling scene - it’s been around since the Nineties and has almost 200 million users. Easy to upload and add descriptions on your products, you can sell just about anything on eBay, from sports kit to makeup.

If you’re looking for a cheap alternative to selling with eBay, with some modern functionality to boot, it’s worth giving Shpock a go.

With over a million users now signed up in the UK you should find something you like or find people that want your stuff in your local area.

MARKETPLACE Tap on the ‘Marketplace’ icon at the bottom of your Facebook app and discover items for sale in your local community. Here you can list what you have to sell, from home and garden furniture and appliances to electronics, antiques, musical instruments and even properties.

a c sh All you need to do is choose a category for your item, give a brief summary of it with a photo and price, specify collection or delivery and wait for someone to make an offer.

it

17

Protecting your Future Who would you want to look after your affairs if something was to happen and you no longer had capacity?

There are two types of Lasting Powers of Attorney: 1. Property and Financial Affairs Power of Attorney - enables your Attorneys to make decisions regarding your finances and property; for example the day to day running of your bank accounts, dealing with investments and selling your property.

2. Health and Welfare Power of Attorney - enables your Attorneys to make personal and medical decisions on your behalf, for example choosing your care and consent to life sustaining treatment.

A Health and Welfare Lasting Power of Attorney can only be used by the Attorneys once you have lost mental capacity.

Some important tips to consider when creating a Lasting Power of Attorney:

- Think about any protective measures for when you would like your Attorney to be able to act.

- Ensure you choose Attorneys you trust to act in your best interests and speak on your behalf.

- Attorneys have a duty to always act in your best interests and consult you at all times.

- Make your instructions and preferences clear.

A Lasting Power of Attorney will give you peace of mind for whatever the future holds. At Rowberry Morris we can help you make arrangements that will protect your future.

- Make sure you are putting in instructions that your Attorneys will be able to achieve.

- Consider what happens if your Attorney is unable to act and when appropriate appoint more than one Attorney.

If you would like to speak more about life planning and Lasting Powers of Attorneys please contact a member of the Private Client Team at Rowberry Morris who will be happy to assist you.

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 0118 958 5611 info-reading@rowberrymorris.co.uk www.rowberrymorris.co.uk Offices also at Richmond and Staines

Eleanor Dowden

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To contribute, advertise or let us know your news please call 0118 933 3311 or email hello@eyemagazines.co.uk Follow us to keep updated, locally

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

Planning for

2022

As I write this article the new Omicron Covid variant is causing concern amongst society - another twist in the pandemic that we initially thought (or rather hoped) would blow over as quickly as it arrived. It doesn’t seem overly dramatic to speculate that Covid and its variants will be with us for some time.

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.’

DO YOU NEED LEGAL ADVICE?

Many of those that seek advice from us are in the fortunate position of being in a stronger position than they initially envisaged. Cashflow modelling is a key part of the work we do in helping to turn complex pension and investment statements into meaningful representations of a financial future. It is a ‘lightbulb’ moment that helps our clients understand where they are and what they need to do to secure their financial ambitions to support the lifestyle that they hope for.

If you are not quite at the point where you feel able to retire, here are 5 ‘top tips’ for 2022.

WE ARE A NICHE LAW FIRM SPECIALISING IN WILLS, INHERITANCE TAX ADVICE, POWERS OF ATTORNEY AND DEEDS OF VARIATION

HOW WE CAN HELP YOU: • Expert advice from an experienced practitioner & technical writer.

• STEP & SFE qualified solicitor.

• Appointments in the comfort of your own home or via video conferencing.

• Evening and weekend appointments available.

• Friendly and professional service.

catherine@legacy-law.co.uk 0118 40 50 131 www.legacy-law.co.uk

In 2021 we saw an increase in enquiries along the lines of “have I got ‘enough’ to retire yet?”. There is strong anecdotal evidence that the various lockdowns have caused many people to reassess their lives.

PROTECTING YOUR LEGACY

1. Increase your pension contributions Pensions are perhaps the most generous ‘tax-break’ available to UK residents.

Pension contributions attract a government top-up of at least 20% (40% for higher rate taxpayers). In addition, the pension fund grows tax free and, on death, can be passed on to beneficiaries’ inheritance tax free. Make the most of it.

2. Check your money is working hard Investing in company shares gives your money the opportunity to benefit from stock market growth. Over the last 10 years you would have earned an annualised return of around 7.5% from UK shares but less than 0.5% if you only earned interest at Bank of England base rates.

Remember that the value of your investment can go down as well as up and you may not get back the full amount you invested.

Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance.

3. Make the most of your ISA allowance You can contribute up to £20,000 into ISAs in the 2020/21 tax year. Funds grow tax-free and withdrawals are not taxed which can help with income planning in retirement.

4. Protect yourself against the unexpected If you’re worried about whether your family would be financially secure if the worst were to happen, make the New Year the time you consider if actions are needed here.

5. Speak to a chartered financial planner Whether you are considering retirement in the near or far future, the best way to get your finances in shape is to speak to a chartered financial planner.

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

Jeremy

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

19

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Discover the benefits of a water softener

B

local

asingstoke Water Softeners is a family business started in 1987 by Lorna Thumwood.

The business has gone from strength to strength, building on their local reputation for high quality products and outstanding customer service.

To reach their own high standards, they only sell the best, twin tank non-electric water softeners with a 10 year manufacturer’s warranty offering a choice of two manufacturers: Kinetico and TwinTec.

A few years in, Lorna invited her brother, Glenn Karpeta, to invest in the business and join on a parttime basis, which he was excited to do having seen its success during the early years, but Glenn was also working full-time in the city as a Network Designer! He could see that a CRM system (Customer Relationship Management system) and the set-up of an office would make a real difference to the company.

This focus on quality is carried through to all ancillary products, too. They can supply and fit boiling water taps, three way taps, a range of water filters and cartridges, as well as salt. It’s hard to picture the 700 packs of salt that they deliver every week to customers’ doors, garages and sheds.

In 2018 Glenn took redundancy from his city job and while contemplating his next move, Lorna asked him to join Basingstoke Water Softeners fulltime as an installer. So off he went to plumbing academy and was soon working on his first installation. He is now at the helm of operations!

The business now has a team of engineers as well as delivery drivers and office staff, so there is full customer support. Most importantly, retaining Lorna’s original passion for the products and customer care has always been at the core of everything they do, even 35 years on.

BASINGSTOKE WATER SOFTENERS HAVE WATER SOFTENERS TO SUIT EVERY SIZE OF HOUSEHOLD

Basingstoke Water Softeners will make sure that the system you choose fits your exact requirements and needs based on your usage, the number of occupants and the size of your property.

VISIT OUR TADLEY SHOWROOM & TASTE THE DIFFERENCE!

THERE ARE SO MANY BENEFITS TO HAVING A WATER SOFTENER. Skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis can all respond well to softened water. Skin feels more moisturised and looks brighter whereas hair will feel silky and smooth.

Financially, your water-using appliances (washing machine, dishwasher, electric shower, hot water cylinder) will have a longer life if you have soft water, saving you money over the years. You will also save time cleaning (and cash on cleaning products) if you have banished limescale from shower screens, taps and tiles - no more unsightly water marks!

And a household with a water softener is kinder to the climate, too.

Latest government figures estimate a saving of up to 25% on energy bills thanks to washing machines, boilers and hot-water cylinders remaining more efficient, so you can save money and save the planet, too.

If you would like to find out more about the best water softener solution for your home in 2022, give Basingstoke Water Softeners a call today. Or, pop down to their brand new showroom in Tadley and discover the benefits for yourself.

IMMEDIATE BENEFITS ALLEVIATE ECZEMA AND DRY SKIN CONDITIONS Eczema, psoriasis and dry skin can all respond positively to softened water.

INCREASE THE LIFE EXPECTANCY OF WATER USING EQUIPMENT Washing machines and dishwashers will work better for longer when using softened water.

BANISH LIMESCALE FOREVER Soft water keeps your tiles and showerscreen free from limescale and banish water marks from taps, sinks and toilets.

A GREENER HOME LATEST GOVERNMENT figures estimate a saving of up to 25% on energy bills thanks to washing machines, boilers and hot-water cylinders remaining more efficient.

Basingstoke Softeners Limited Pamber Green, Tadley, RG26 3AF

01256 703 346

basingstokesofteners.com /BasingstokeWaterSofteners

21

Baughurst

C T SS

Substantial 5 bedroom detached home This superb home has been extended by the current owners and sits on a mature plot of circa 0.44 acres in a most desirable non estate location. Offered for sale with no onward chain.

• • • • • • • •

Total plot of circa 0.44 acres Living accommodation of circa 2606 sq.ft Extended by current owners 4 receptions, 3 bathrooms Detached double garage Exclusive non estate location No onward chain EPC Rating C

£1,200,000 Mortimer Fantastic opportunity This detached 4 bedroom, 3 reception home is situated in a fantastic tucked away location at the end of a no through road. Mature gardens surround the property and there is the potential to extend or indeed create an additional building plot subject to the usual planning permissions. Offered for sale with no onward chain.

• • • • • • •

Detached family home Private location Circa third acre gardens Plus potential building plot 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms Double garage EPC rating D

O.I.E.O £800,000 Contact our Mortimer office: Phone: 0118 467 7999 Email: mortimer@davidcliff.com Visit: davidcliff.com 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

Brand new detached bungalow Show home Open at Weekends 10am until 4pm.

Viewings strictly by appointment • • • • • •

£750,000

Mortimer Brand new 4 bedroom home

Mortimer Extended and improved family home

£750,000 • By TA Fisher • Circa 1453sq.ft • Open plan kitchen/dining

• Enclosed rear garden • NHBC Guarantee • CGI used for illustration

Burghfield Common Superb outlook

By TA Fisher Circa 1314sq.ft 3 bedrooms Open plan kitchen/dining/family room CGI used for illustration purposes EPC rating TBC

Shinfield Select gated location

O.I.E.O £685,000 • 4 double bedrooms • Lounge/dining room • Fitted kitchen

• Open plan family room • South west facing garden • EPC Rating D

Burghfield Common Ready to move into

Guide £575,000 • Detached family home • 4 bedrooms • Kitchen/dining room

• Garage and driveway • Planning to extend • EPC rating C

Got a property to let?

Talk to us now

landlords & tenants £535,000 • Family detached home • 4 bedrooms • Kitchen/dining room

• Living room • Garage and driveway • EPC rating D

£450,000

£• 3 double bedrooms

• Lovely setting • Open plan living/dining

• Conservatory • South West facing garden • EPC rating D

• Personal • Professional • Thorough

• Attentive • Detailed • Unique

Pink Pages: Trades & Services

• • • • • • • •

Professional certificated arborists.

25 years experience.

Fully insured.

Free quotations and advise.

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All types of tree work and hedge work All types of tree planting.

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

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eye

Extensions & Alterations Garage Conversions New Builds All general building work For a free quotation please call:

07733 368 089

Email: brantbuilders@yahoo.com

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The Forge, Reading Road, Burghfield Common, Reading, Berkshire, RG7 3BL

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

Unlock Your Home’s Potential

OTHER SERVICES Heat Treatment Fogging Services Dead Animal Removal

Please mention Eye Magazine when responding to adverts.

Pink Pages: Trades & Services

NEED A NEW BOILER?

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.

Call Phil Capel on:

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

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

Before

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

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

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

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

07789 902 091 0118 933 2121

UPVC & Aluminium: Windows - Doors Conservatories - Fascias - 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: Tailormade Windows & Doors of Berkshire Ltd. Unit 2 James Lane, Burghfield, RG7 1NB

Windows & Doors - Berkshire

13,000 copies, with an estimated 36,000 readers - monthly!

To advertise HERE, call 0118 933 3311

eye

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

ASHLEYS

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

CALL YOUR LOCAL REMOVALS COMPANY ON

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Contact Toby on 07737 784 244

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

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No Signal? we’ll fix it

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

Please mention Eye Magazine when responding to adverts.

Pink Pages: Trades & Services

Berkshire Design Build Ltd

& tel: 0118 983 4164 or mob: 07836 751 072

email: davidling007@sky.com | 9 Chervil Way, Burghfield Common, RG7 3XY

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

Harringtons is a local, family run firm supplying bottled gas and prepacked heating fuel. We also sell home and garden heaters, as well as timber and railway sleepers for landscaping projects.

DELIVERING WARMTH, LOCALLY FOR LESS...

PROPANE & BUTANE KILN-DRIED ASH LOGS SOLID FUELS WATER SOFTENING SALT GRANULES, TABLETS & BLOCKS COAL, LOGS & CHARCOAL & KINDLING

FREE DELIVERY TO READING & SURROUNDS

Book by phone or online

01189 242 888

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13,000 copies, with an estimated 36,000 readers - monthly!

To advertise HERE, call 0118 933 3311

eye

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

Miles & Daughters Funeral Directors Serving Tadley and surrounding areas

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 Eye Magazine when responding to adverts.

Windows - Doors - Conservatories - UPVC or Timber 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

To advertise HERE, call 0118 933 3311 in ade !

M tom ter Cus ilches S

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Prices from £895

eye

WHAT’S INCLUDED WITH EVERY DOOR ACOUSTICALLY & THERMALLY INSULATED SECURE DESIGN AVAILABLE IN 21 COLOURS TWO REMOTE CONTROLS FREE EXPERT MEASURING & FITTING FREE DISPOSAL OF YOUR OLD DOOR

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in January HELLO 2022!

How time flies! It’s 2022 and, as usual, we’re bringing you new and fresh ideas for styling your home this January.

It’s still cold and blustery outside, so making the most of the indoors is key.

Eco Accessorise If you’re thinking of ways to be more more eco friendly in your home, maybe consider investing in eco cutlery and beauty accessories. Instead of that plastic hairbrush, try the eco-friendly bamboo paddle that is sustainable and long-lasting. There are also alternatives to facial wipes, such as the reusable make up remover pads, easy and available to buy online.

FAUX FIREPLACE Winter always calls for a nice evening fire, however we’re not all lucky enough to have a fireplace in our home. If you are one of these people, you could try out the faux fireplace hack. Often used with candles or fairylights, this alternative can really transform your living space into a cozy little hideaway. It may not heat your home quite the same way but looks fantastic.

Home

with Holly 32

eyemagazines.co.uk

Calathea

DIY HOME GYM We all know the month of January screams “Gym membership” but instead of investing in a monthly plan, why not make a little dedicated space to work out in. The area doesn’t have to be large, just as long as you have enough space to lay down your yoga mat and stretch without bumping your head!

JANUARY PLANTS January can be tough on our gardens, but this indoor beauty will be able to combat those winter blues. If you’re looking for a mass of lush foliage that you can keep anywhere in the house, look no further than the Calathea. Accustomed to growing in shady areas, this plant is perfect for making your house look like a tropical paradise.

READING NOOK Is this winter weather making you want to curl up with a good book? Try turning a little corner of your home into a reading nook. With pillows, blankets and an ambient glow of fairy lights, you can turn a boring old window sill into your new favourite spot.

hello@eyemagazines.co.uk

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Screen

Time

The Power of The Dog

West Side Story

Spielberg’s retelling of the 1961 musical exploring forbidden love and rivalry between two rival American and Puerto Rican gangs brings this classic Romeo and Juliet adaptation into the modern age.

When reformed ex gang leader of the Jets, Tony (Ansel Elgort), falls for Maria (Rachel Zegler), sister to the rival Shark’s leader, events escalate that threaten the lives and loves on each side of the ethnic divide.

Jane Campion’s Netflix neowestern based on the novel of the same name is a tense and unsettling study of masculinity in 1920’s Montana.

Wealthy ranching brothers Phil (Benedict Cumberbatch) and George (Jesse Plemons) are chalk and cheese. Phil’s volatile cowboy machismo is threatened when the more reserved and benevolent George welcomes to the family his new wife Rose (Kirstin Dunst) and her effeminate son Peter (Kodi Smit-McPhee).

Rather than find an original and inventive take on its predecessor - itself groundbreaking in its choreography and abstract visuals - Spielberg instead gives us a joyous and dazzling homage. His mastery of lighting and composition is on full show in the rich and handsome visuals, and far from mawkish the dance routines have a confidence and fizzing energy that’s hard to resist. Ansel (Baby Driver and Divergent Series) leads a largely unknown cast and it’s his roguish charm and chemistry with the newcomer Zegler that steals the show.

The vastness of the scenery and the quietly brooding soundtrack give this a beauty that perfectly juxtaposes the central themes that constantly pick away at the surface. The ensemble cast are all on top form including newcomer Smit-McPhee, but Oscar-worthy plaudits go to Cumberbatch who delivers one of the finest performances of his career.

with ROB BARNES

Don't Look Up

If you’re after some light relief, then look no further than Adam McKay’s comedy satire led by all-star cast Leonardo DiCaprio, Jennifer Lawrence, Meryl Streep, Jonah Hill, Cate Blanchett and Mark Rylance.

Low-level Astronomy professor Dr. Randall Mindy (DiCaprio) and student Kate Dibiasky discover a comet that is on a direct trajectory to earth with an imminent strike due in six months time. Despite unavoidable annihilation for the planet U.S President Orlean (Streep) and her Chief of Staff son Jason (Hill) mock the science in favour of votes and money as they enlist the help of eccentric tech entrepreneur Peter Isberwell (Rylance) to harvest it’s valuable minerals. Meanwhile Randall and Kate are utterly dumbfounded as they are also discredited by the media, led by blonde bombshell news anchor Brie Evantee who instead sets her sights on sexy scientist Randall.

This deliciously dark and twisted Trumpian satire brimming with memes, fake news, cancel culture and political stupidity may labour towards the finale but has more than enough laughs and A-list stars to make it a sure hit. Another Netflix gem available now.

GOOD READS FOR JANUARY Molly the Maid is thrown into the spotlight when she discovers an infamous guest, Mr Black, very dead in his bed. She becomes embroiled in a hunt for the truth, learning who to trust as she navigates the secret underbelly of the Regency Grand Hotel. Escapist, charming and introducing a truly original heroine, The Maid is a story about how everyone deserves to be seen, and how the truth isn't always black and white.

This gripping thriller from the pen of Leah Tonen tell the tale of three friends and one much-needed getaway. Who could have expected it to end in murder..?

When her husband Harry walks out after just six months, Sam has never been in more need of a getaway.

So when her friends suggest a girls' weekend away, Sam can't accept soon enough… but then things start to go wrong.

Win a £100 Win Valentine’s Bouquet!

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ALL STARS THEATRE ACADEMY

Where your dreams come true and imagination is everything!

Magical dance classes for the energetic 2.5 age group & up

Ever wondered why we send flowers on Valentine’s Day?

SCAN ME TO ENTER!

The biggest reason we give flowers as gifts is to connect with an emotion. Whether its love, joy, affection, appreciation, sympathy, romance or apologies; flower giving communicates the deepest feelings in the most elegant manner. For centuries, flowers have symbolized fertility, love, marriage, and romance.

During the Victorian era, it became popular to use flowers to send secretive messages. Known as floriography, sending flowers became a commonly used way for lovers and admirers to express secret messages that Victorian etiquette deemed unacceptable to share openly.

With Valentines Day now firmly in our sights, whether you want to send someone flowers anonymously or put your name to them, we’ve teamed up with the area’s favourite florist, Georgies, to give one lucky reader the chance to WIN a HUGE £100 VALENTINES BOUQUET!

TO ENTER

Simply hover your camera over the QR code or visit eyemagazines.co.uk and answer the following question: WHICH DATE IN FEBRUARY DOES VALENTINE’S DAY FALL ON? a: 13th b: 14th c:15th

Contact us to book a free trial http://www.allstardance.co.uk/registration/

www.georgiesflorists.co.uk | 01189 861467 Competition closes at midnight 31st January. The winner will be notified on Tuesday 1st February and announced on our Facebook page. Full Ts & Cs are available at eyemagazines.co.uk

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For babies and children from 3 months to 5 years old Set in 60 acres of woodland and private gardens, with a working farm Experts in Forest School learning Freshly prepared food Funding available Virtual & in-person tours available!

Book yours today!

facebook/JubileeDayNursery For more information please contact: Jubilee Day Nursery - 0118 970 1600 www.jubileedaynursery.co.uk Rectory Road, Padworth, RG7 4JD

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RAF Air Cadets

Activities

Where: Burghfield & Aldermaston Age range: 12/17 With a special affiliation to the RAF in these parts, how about getting in on the action? If your child is a fan of aviation and adventure, loves sports and getting to know people then the Air Cadets is for them. Every year nearly 56,000 air cadets and volunteer staff take part in exciting events all over the country. And with over 1,000 squadrons across the UK, they could be a part of it. Age range: 12-17 www.raf.mod.uk/aircadets

Scouts The Scout Movement aims to support young people in their physical, mental and spiritual development, encourage them to play constructive roles in society, and has a strong focus on the outdoors and survival skills. Starting with Beavers at age 5 ¾, moving onto cubs at 8, Scouts at 10 & Explorers at 14, this organisation is possibly one of the most grounding experiences you can introduce your child to.

To find your nearest group, visit:

www.scouts.org.uk

Rainbows, Guides & Brownies They go to their first ever sleepover, canoe on rivers, learn about body confidence, lead their own camp, or simply have fun and try new things with girls their age. Age Range 5-14

www. girlguiding. org.uk

Gymnastics, Cheer & Dance Whether it’s learning to tumble, training to become a world champion cheerleader, dancing ballet, modern, disco or tap your child has a penchant for, we are blessed with so many great clubs and coaches to choose from. Most offer classes from around school age (some earlier, like ballet for example) during term time and beyond.

Gymnastics, Tumbling & Cheer Berkshire Talent Academy 01635 550014 www.facebook.com/BerkshireTA Ballet, Modern, Tap, Gymnastic & Street Dance All Stars Dance 0118 986 8000 www.allstardance.co.uk

Drama & Singing Drama classes have seen a surge of interest recently because drama is well-known for building confidence.

Many parents have noticed signs of anxiety in their children following last year’s home schooling and lock downs and are seeking drama classes. StageAbility offers classes a-plenty on our doorstep, Join the fun!

Where: Burghfield, Mortimer, Wokingham, Tilehurst & Lower Earley Age range: 5-18 (age split classes) 0118 933 3791 https://stageability.class4kids.co.uk

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LEAVING SCHOOL? eye Education WHAT’S NEXT?

Could a modern-day apprenticeship suit you?

When you were younger (much younger), you may have had aspirations of being a firefighter, a member of cabin crew or even a police officer, but the chances are, you’ll have reached your mid-teens without a clue about what you’d actually like to do and have found yourself having to make some really big choices. This can be daunting and scary. If you are due to leave school soon, have you decided upon your next course of action? Perhaps you don’t fancy paying the £9,000+ a year tuition fee at university - or maybe you feel that further education isn’t the route for you. Perhaps one option might be an apprenticeship where you couple your interest in the area you want to develop with that of a career.

Don’t be fooled by the old jokes, long gone are the days when the apprentice just made the tea or was sent to fetch a bucket of sparks!

It’s a serious route for further training and one that employers really value.

In 2022 the UK needs to be as competitive as ever in the global marketplace and industries of all types need new minds and resources that they can develop. It’s not an easy ride and, like anything, you get out what you put in. So what are the benefits? Firstly you work alongside experienced staff and grow your knowledge from them. You will gain specific job skills, earn a wage and usually you take a day a week to study towards a job-related qualification.

If you are interested you may wonder what the apprentice gets financially. An apprentice is paid from their first day at work. The minimum wage is £2.65 per hour between 16 and 18 but many earn more and over 19s should receive the National Minimum Wage. You would also get 20 days holiday a year.

There are many areas of apprenticeship, but you will need to find one local to you in an area that you want to work in and a company that sees merit in you. (It’s a job interview after all.) Your apprenticeship has to be in an area that you want to develop as a career. If you are into electrical engineering then you need to find the relevant company. If you are into Leisure and Tourism

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then you need to look in that space. But apprentices are sought in many different types of business from agriculture, to arts and media, leisure and retailing as well as all the usual industries you would expect.

As a rule however you need to be living in England, not taking part in full time education and over 16 years old.

Don’t forget that it’s a selective interview process so there has to be reasons and benefits from both sides.

For the employer that may not have thought about an apprentice, there are benefits here also. You could benefit from a grant, improve the bottom line, fill your skills gap and motivate your workforce. But you don’t need to take my word for it. Recently many business leaders wrote an open letter to the FT and the Guardian supporting the apprentice scheme and, with nearly 60% of the intake going on to higher management within the company, the evidence is that apprenticeships work.

There are some local businesses in the RG7 area that are interested in apprentices and many more across Berkshire. So if you are a local employer wanting an apprentice, or you are in education and wondering about what may be available, then a fantastic resource is available here:

www.apprenticeships.org.uk There are three levels of apprenticeship in the UK: Intermediate Equivalent to 5 GCSE passes Advanced Equivalent to 2 A level passes Higher Apprenticeships can lead to NVQ Level 4 or Foundation Degree

An independent, co-educational boarding and day school for pupils 11-18

A community where you can flourish Contact the Admissions Team: pangbourne.com admissions@pangbourne.com 0118 976 7415

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Join our fantastic, friendly, village school The Federation of Mortimer St. John’s Infant School and Mortimer St. Mary’s Junior School

“Leaders want the very best for pupils. They have a coherent vision, which is ambitious and uses topics well to develop skills from different subjects.”

“Children enjoy strong relationships with their friends, feel happy and safe. They take pride in their work and enjoy achieving.”

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Please contact us to book a place on a small group tour officemsj@mortimerschools.org | Tel: 0118 9332242

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To contribute, advertise or let us know your news please call 0118 933 3311 or email hello@eyemagazines.co.uk Follow us to keep updated, locally

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ic around This spring & summer is going tontbes toeplive here! here... No wonder everyone wa cial calendar...

Here are some dates for your so

Essential 2022

OUT OUT GUIDE

Red sky Festival Silchester

At an all-new location, Red Sky Festival is set to return in 2022! This year the festival will take place on the weekend of May 28th, the start of the Spring bank holiday and the week before the bumper Jubilee weekend over in Mortimer.

With more original bands than ever rumoured to be in the line-up, the festival will once again become a time machine back to the world of the 80s and 90s.

Music meets pop culture meets great food and wine - plus camping - will be available for the weekend, with all new forest glamping options.

Buy Early Bird tickets and check out latest plans at www.redskyfestival.co.uk

The Queens 70th Jubilee Celebration MORTIMER The planned SMPC VE75 commemoration which unfortunately had to be cancelled in May 2020 has now been rolled into “The Queens Platinum 70th Jubilee” (not–for-profit) on the weekend of Friday 3rd (evening) and all day on Saturday 4th June 2022. Put the Date in your Diary for the extra special Bank Holiday weekend, not to be missed on Mortimer Fairground!

Marvellous Festival

Get the weekend of 23rd-24th July 2022 booked out in your diary right now for another superb weekend of music and fun at Dinton Pastures Country Park in Berkshire. Now in its 20th year, and the area’s original festival dedicated to all things ‘tribute’, the team has already announced who they’ve got performing on the main stage - and it’s a definite corker of a line-up! www.marvellousfestivals.com Tickets are currently on sale with an EarlyBird discount of 20% !

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On Thursday night (2nd), an official Jubilee beacon will be lit to mark the start of an extra long weekend of celebration. Then, on the Friday night, organisers are rumoured to be planning a fabulous evening of drag, burlesque and cabaret before the main event on Saturday!

The Royal Occasion will be Free Entry with a varied mix of music, food outlets, licensed bars, refreshments, classic fun fair, side shows and local stalls. The Epsom Derby will be screened live on the Saturday along with a sports day (to coincide with 2022 Commonwealth games being held here in Britain) for the children and competitive adults, tug–o-war, sack race, egg & spoon race, wheelbarrow and many more.

It will round off with a sensational line-up of bands on a massive openair stage organised by MML. It’s going to be a BIG ONE on a special weekend with a firework display wrapping up the party on Saturday evening. For more information, visit www.mortimervillage.org.uk

* As is life these days, all events, dates, times, line-ups and event content are subject to possible COVID permissions & restictions or change.

eye

eye What’s On!

Burghfest- BURGHFIELD

A firm favourite fixture, the Burghfield Santas’ annual beer and music festival will be held on Friday 23rd & Saturday 24th September at the Rec in Burghfield. With over 70 real-ales (including the area’s favourite - ‘Santa Brew’), perries, ciders, gins, wines & prosecco, this musical, fun-filled family weekend and beer fiesta is now an established and eagerly-awaited event on the annual calendar. Expect a weekend full of live music, fun, shenanigans and heaps of community spirit - all in the name of charity. We can’t wait!

SERVICE FOR A REASON PRESENTS A GLAM & GLOW FUNDRAISING BALL IN AID

We are so happy to announce that the Burghfield May Fayre will be returning on Sunday 8th May. There will be a Funfair, Dog Show, Arena Displays, Craft Stalls, Cafe, Food Stalls and the Bar will all be returning.

OF SPECIAL NEEDS CHILDREN EDUCATION IN AFRICA

SATURDAY 12 FEBRUARY 2022 | 6 PM MANSION HOUSE, WOKEFIELD ESTATE, GOODBOYS LANE,MORTIMER, READING, RG7 3AE DRINKS ON ARRIVAL 3 COURSE MEAL WITH WINE CHARITY AUCTION, LIVE ENTERTAINMENT & RAFFLE BLACK TIE RSVP BY 31/01/22 07377809363 EARLY BIRD TICKETS £85 INDIVIDUAL TICKETS £100

TICKETS AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE ON EVENTBRITE

Santa’s Bulging Egg Sack Brace yourselves for the first Santa Event of the year - Santa’s Bulging Egg Sack Pop Up Pub, turning Good Friday to Great Friday!

No tickets required, just turn up. Burghfield Village Hall, Friday 15th April from 5pm

Bling & Bellini Ball highfIELD PARK

Burghfield-based charity Bucket List Wishes is thrilled to be hosting the 3rd Bling & Bellini Charity Ball this summer at Highfield Park. This amazing event will be held on Saturday 2nd July with tickets going on sale at the end of January! Once again, the organisers have pulled out all the stops...

This year, the theme is Las Vegas! The low ticket price of £50 includes Free Coaches, Cocktails on Arrival, a Hot Fork Buffet, Celebrity Auction, Party Entertainment, Raffle, Music and Dancing!

For tickets & Info visit:

www.bucketlistwishes.org.uk

BURGHFIELD KIDDIES DISCO,< BARN DANCE & MAY FAIR

This year, on the Friday (6th), the team are hosting a Kiddies Disco Picnic. Then, on the Saturday Night (Sat 7th), it’s time to ‘Dosey Doe’ and Yee Ha at the village Barn Dance.

There will be a well stocked onsite bar serving a variety of beers, ciders and spirits and plenty of scrummy food too.

For more info visit: www.burghfieldresidents.org

Back to the 80s A New Romantic Symphony that goes on a journey through one of the greatest musical eras of all time – the electrifying '80s - featuring songs from now-legendary artists such as Duran Duran, Spandau Ballet, The Human League, Ultravox, Tears For Fears, Depeche Mode, OMD, Japan, ABC, Soft Cell and many more. Performed by an incredible live band with awesome symphonic arrangements combined with stunning vocals and cast. This is the must-see show that simply defines a decade. Tickets for the show on Thursday, 17 February are available now at www.whatsonreading.com

CHeck out Our weekly

out out event guide every thursday evening on BBC radio berkshire

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Looking for a versatile venue?

M

any of you will have driven past the brown signpost on the Padworth Road for the YMCA Activity Centre, but what exactly is there?

You might be surprised to know that tucked in the woodland of Englefield Estate is a modern activity centre, built in 2014, consisting of a large main hall, a fully equipped kitchen, toilets & shower facilities as well as two dormitories with bunk beds to accommodate 8 people in each dorm, plus a separate bedroom with one bunk bed for leaders.

There is a large field behind the building which is used for group camping and for outdoor games and field activities.

YMCA Reading staff have also built an outdoor classroom as an additional feature for schools and groups to use for outdoor learning. Outside the building there is a fire pit for hirers to use and an outdoor pizza oven.

The site is available for hire throughout the year for oneoff events such as birthday parties; youth group activities; family gatherings as well as camping events overnight or over a few nights, such as DofE; Scout Group Camps; Guide Group camps or family get togethers!

What group gettogethers are you planning for 2022?

The centre is not a new addition to the area. YMCA Reading has been in possession of the site since 1971.

The original log cabin was built by a team of volunteers, members and friends of YMCA Reading, on land belonging to The Englefield Trust.

But in June 2012 arsonists set fire to the cabin and it was completely burnt to the ground. The rebuild of a larger and better fit-for-purpose building started in 2013 and YMCA Reading employed 5 apprentices to help with the re-build.

Y ALL TOT H IT IN S SMA2022!

OUTDOOR CLASSES IN:

BURGHFIELD, MORTIMER, BASINGSTOKE, & TADLEY

Lose weight & Build self confidence!

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eye Leisure

The current building opened in July 2014.

The site is well-used.

Not only do YMCA Reading staff use the site to take residents (young people between 16-25 years) for camping trips and to experience outdoor activities, the site is regularly used by local scout groups, toddler outdoor play sessions and local band practice!

Originally set up in 1846, YMCA Reading has been supporting young people and communities for 175 years.

If you would like to find out more about hiring the centre for your group, school or family, you can find out more on YMCA Reading’s website: www.ymcareading. org/ymca-activitycentre-padworth

YMCA Reading Activity Centre | Ramptons Lane | Padworth |RG7 4QT

BOOK YOUR BOXFIT CLASSES NOW! BOOK YOUR CLASS NOW!

07855 015685

www.totallysmashedit.com

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