VILLAGE

Issue 39 June 2015 Circulation 11,000

FREE

Lifestyle magazine

for the RG7 area and beyond

eye TM

PAGES 8 & 9

8

VoUS

2015

THE TRIBUTE FESTIVAL

SATURDAY 25th & SUNDAY 26th JULY

WELLINGTON COUNTRY PARK SATURDAY

5X FAMILY TICKETS Queen Foo Fighters Dolly Parton Bruce Springsteen Bob Marley The Kinks Oasis

SUNDAY

A FAMILY TICKET TO

MARVELLOUS!

Fleetwood Mac Abba Pink Floyd Michael Jackson Duran Duran Ed Sheeran SPECIAL GUESTS The Bogus Brothers

ODDS FARM Festival Camping & Glamping

Superb Catering Concessions

Sunday spitfire flypast

Second Stage Marquee

SOCIAL MEDIA FOMO! Drinks from the Marv Bar!

The Big Kids’ Village

Funfair Rides

Napoleonic Re-enactors

www.marvellousfestivals.com

34

19

MORTIMER FUN DAY Sat 4 July th

MORTIM

ER FAIRGROUND

FREE

DAYTIME ENTRY

This month’s cover sponsor

KEEPING IT LOCAL News | Business | Sport | Health | Homes | Entertainment1

the Parkway Summer Series Launches on Saturday 4th July with The Street Party. Enjoy live music, Covent Garden acts, exclusive retail discounts and much more this Summer. Visit www.shopatparkway.com for more information on performances and other dates. download your party pass from 5th June at

www.shopatparkway.com Offers include 20% off at CafĂŠ Rouge, Ecco, Animal, Ecco and much more!

2

VILLAGE

magazine Lifestylearea and beyond

I

t’s hotting up here at VE HQ as we finally celebrate the arrival of summer and the arrival of the June issue of Village Eye magazine. The season of fetes, fairs and festivals is already underway and there is plenty more in store this month too!

EEe FRazin

mag nd Lifestyle area and beyo

for the RG7

e Issue 39 Jun

for the RG7

11,0 2015 Circulation

One of summer’s main attractions is brought to us by our cover sponsor this month, Mortimer Fun Day! Make sure you keep Saturday 4th July free for this fabulous family event and turn to pages 8 and 9 to find out all the details. The fun includes dog displays, a burger bake-off, Welsh Axemen, Welly Wanging, market stalls, live music, a bar and the return of the Mortimer beach!

00

eye TM

oUS V& SUNDAY 26th JULY 2015

TRIBUTE FESTIVAL THE TRIBUTE

25th SATURDAY

COUNTRY PARK WELLINGTON SUNDAY SATURDAY

A FAMILY

TICKET TO

ETS

RM ODDS FA Bob Marley The Kinks Oasis

Sunday spitfire flypast

Marquee Second Stage

& Glamping

DIA SOCIAL ME Festival Camping

Superb Catering

Funfair Rides

Concessions

Bar! the Marv Drinks from

The Big Kids’

Village

Napoleonic Re-enactors

estivals.com www.marvellousf

KEEPING

FOMO!

IT LOCAL

8 14

OUS!

MARVELL

Fleetwood Mac Abba Pink Floyd Michael Jackson Duran Duran Ed Sheeran SPECIAL GUESTS Brothers The Bogus

TICK 5X FAMILY Queen Foo Fighters Dolly Parton en Bruce Springste

&9 PAGES 8

MORTIMYER

19

FUN DA

Sat 4 July

Towards the end of this month, there is a wonderful range of performances taking place at Bradfield College Festival. The Reduced Shakespeare Company, Stomp and G4 are among the performers taking to the stage across Festival week. Turn to page 10 for more details.

Sunscreen Myths

5

19

th

FREE

Another date for your diary is the weekend of 25th/26th July when Marvellous Festival takes place at Wellington Country Park. With a fantastic line-up of the best tribute bands around including Queen, Abba, Fleetwood Mac and Duran Duran, you can be sure of a great time while the kids are entertained with the fun fair rides and kids village. More details can be found on pages 14 and 15 as well as the chance to win a family ticket for the event!

Suffering Social FOMO?

We have another great free-to-enter competition for you this month, too. Our friends over at Odds Farm Park near Beaconsfield are offering five of you the chance to win a Family Ticket, so turn to page 34 and get entering.

DIG THIS

MORTIMER FAIRGRO

UND

DAYTIME ENTRY

or

’s cover spons

This month

inment1 es | Enterta

lth | Hom

rt | Hea iness | Spo News | Bus

The Best Family Music Festival

Marvellous

Don’t forget Father’s Day on June 21st! If you’re stuck for ideas then Village Eye has the answer! Turn to page 36 to be inspired.

19 & 20 july 2014 wellington country park

WIN MARVELLOUS TICKETS - page 14

Our regular columnists are back this month with a real mixed bag of articles for you. From Jack Worboys with his motoring column on the Goodwood Festival of Speed (p.33), to Megan’s beauty page on the best fake tans to use this summer (p.7). Eye Tech looks at the Apple Watch this month and tells you all you need to know on page 4.

This month’s film review is of The Avengers: Age of Ultron, a new release which has been eagerly anticipated. Director Joss Whedon stays as faithful as possible to the comic books, and most importantly delivers a standalone film for the masses worthy of all the hype. Our film reviewer, Rob Barnes, tells us more on page 32.

6 Father’s Day Gift Guide

Our regular columnist Rowberry Morris Solicitors in Tadley bring us news on E-cigarettes in the workplace and how the law affects their use on page 16. Mark Penston, our financial advisor, gives us his insight into the financial world post- election. Turn to page 18 to find out more. As ever, we extend a huge thank you to all of our advertisers and contributors for helping to make Village Eye the area’s favourite local magazine, and please - if you are responding to any advert or feature, don’t forget to mention the Village Eye to them! Until next time...

June EYE

Hellen & The Team x

Community News - 2 E-Cigarettes at Work - 16 Ditching the Pasty - 7 Post Election Pondering - 18 L’Ortolan for £5! - 11 Hot Properties - 20 Perfect Timing -12 Goodwood Festival of Speed - 33 Reading Chilli Fest - 13 Tadley’s Above Par! - 40

eye verts

36

ODDS Come FARM to my BBQ PARK 34

29

Reading

eye web

eye deliver

J 12

Need a local business or service? Want to keep up with local news as it happens? www.villageeye.co.uk

Village Eye is currently hand delivered to most homes and businesses coloured in pink on the map. Our current circulation is 11,000

A huge thank you to all our contributors this month: Rupert Willoughby, Richard Skegg, Rebecca Barker, Sue & Andrew Port, Anna Illingworth, Graham Jones, mark Penston, Rob Barnes, Jack Worboys, Pete Lincoln, Steve Stanton, Olivia (Willink), Glen Townsend, Lucy Rutland. The Village Eye is brought to you by Pinktomato Ltd, a local, independent creative design and marketing company. All content within the publication is copyright of Village Eye. The publishers cannot accept responsibility for views or opinions expressed by contributors or for the accuracy of claims made by the advertisers. All dates, times, URL’s and telephone numbers are understood to be correct at the time of submission to print. *Not including stock images - advert release fee charged.

Editor: Sub Editor: Advertising: Beauty Editor:

Hellen Shaw Jackie Stuart Karen Sebright Megan Curtis

M4

Theale Beenham

Advertising in the Eye is very cost effective, both in print and online. We can even complete your artwork for you too (for free*) Please call us for details 0118 907 6200

W IN 5x Family Ticke ts!

A4 to Newbury

J 11

Burghfield Burghfield Common Mortimer

Padworth

Beech Hill

Spencers Wood A33

Aldermaston Pamber Heath Baughurst Tadley

Silchester Basingstoke

/villageeyemagazine

Registered Address: Butlers Lands Farm Mortimer, RG7 2AG

Hello@villageeye.co.uk PINKTOMATO 0118 907 6200

To contribute, advertise or let us know your news - please call the team 0118 907 6200 or email info@villageeye.co.uk

Please

smartphones view here

Recycle Me!

1

BRIDGEWOOD LANDSCAPE SERVICES LOGS

Seasoned Hard Wood - By the Load or Bags, cut to your requirement - also Kindling Wood. FREE bag with first order when you mention this advert.

FENCING

All types - Close Board – Post and Rail – Gates

SOFT LANDSCAPING

Turfing- Hedging – Garden Maintenance – Borders

HARD LANDSCAPING Driveways – Patios – Pergolas – Decking

TREE SURGERY

Pruning - Felling - Crown Reduction

WASP NEST REMOVAL

Unveiling the Bridge at Ufton

Plans for a new bridge to replace the level crossing at Ufton Nervet have recently been unveiled by Network Rail. It is hoped that work will start next year, subject to planning permission. The level crossing site is well-known locally because, tragically, 11 people have been killed there over the last ten years. Network Rail has previously been criticised for not building a bridge sooner. The firm acknowledge that the notoriety of the site has increased the urgency to build a bridge.

Network Rail has been working closely with West Berkshire Council on the plans and hoped to submit a planning application soon. Once work starts, the work should take less than 12 months to complete. Local reaction to the proposed bridge is overwhlemingly supportive. Residents reaslise that although there may be disruption to the area which construction takes place, the end result will be worth it in the long run.

City and Guilds NPTC and fully insured.

Mark Vincent tel - 0118 983 3725 mob - 0789 903 0317

www.bridgewoodlandscapes.co.uk

Does your life feel out of control?

We can help!

Our local service is all about giving you back your precious time. We work through your to do list so you can get on with the important things in life. Whether it's a one off project or regular help, we're here to listen and tailor our service to your needs. What are you waiting for? To find out more, please call Fiona on

07587 170707 berkslifestyle.co.uk

fiona@berkslifestyle.co.uk

Archaeologist of the Year Silchester’s Roman site is well-known by local community, often referred to as ‘The Silchester Walls’. The archeological dig that went on there for almost two decades is equally well-known, so it’s delightful that the Reading university professor who oversaw the £5m archeological project has been named Archaeologist of the Year 2015. Professor Michael Fulford, of the University of Reading’s archaeology department, was recently awarded the top honour by the publication Current Archaeology Live! 2015. Over the last eighteen years, he and his colleagues unearthed artefacts and evidence of how life was lived in

2

To contribute, advertise or let us know your news please call 0118 907 6200 or email info@villageeye.co.uk

Roman times – and centuries before that during the Iron Age. The award was presented at the University of London’s Senate House, at a ceremony hosted by archaeologist Julian Richards, presenter of the BBC4 TV programme Meet The Ancestors. Professor Fulford commented that it was a particular pleasure to see Mr Richards, a former University of Reading student. Plans are in the pipeline to excavate a new, smaller site at the Roman town in the village, while the priority is now to fund publication of the results and the research on all finds at the site. Main picture: Rupertwilloughby.co.uk Rupert is a locally-based prize-winning historian who specialises in the domestic and social life of the past.

facebook.com/villageeyemagazine

eye

BEAT THE STREET

On Community

Picture courtesy of Altreading.com

If you’ve seen groups of children excitedly running up to lamp posts with credit cards in-hand across Theale, Burghfield and Mortimer recent, you would be forgiven for being confused! The reason for this strange activity is that the walking challenge ‘Beat The Street’ is back! Local children have been given a card which they tap against ‘beat boxes’ which are attached to lamp posts along routes to and from the villages and schools. The sensors know which team is tapping (which school/village) and track the distances travelled between beat boxes. Local schools and organsations are competing to win prizes but most importantly the aim is to get the whole of the community on their feet and on their bikes to increase physical activity levels, reduce congestion and support community cohesion. At the time of writing schools from Burghfield, Mortimer & Theale were all in the top 10 - with Theale just a few points behind the league table winners. Beat the Street will be taking place from 29 April-24 June 2015. If you want to get involved, you can collect a Beat the Street card from your local GP or library. You will need to register your card on the Beat The Street website before taking part. Let’s get walking! www.reading.beatthestreet.me

This month sees the launch of the Bradfield Festival with the newly restored Greek Theatre at its heart. The Festival will deliver a week of comedy, classical music, pop music, opera, theatre, visual arts and dance.

This summer sees the launch of the Theale Village Carnival and Fete which will take place at North Street Playing Fields on Saturday July 18th. There is so much planned for families to enjoy, and local groups will benefit from any profits. But to make it all happen, the organisers need an army of volunteers. Can you help? There are so many roles available, whether you can compere the event, man a stall or helping to sell programmes and raffle tickets. Its a great way to get more involved in your local community plus you'll get to meet new people, share your skills or learn something new! If readers are interested in becoming a volunteer, please do get in touch! Email thealecarnival@outlook. com or join the facebook group to keep up with the latest news www.facebook.com/ThealeVCA

Keep Updated in your local village with /villageeyemagazine

Big name acts including; G4, Reduced Shakespeare Company, Chamber Orchestra of the Royal Opera House, Stomp Workshops with members of the cast of Stomp, The National Youth Jazz Orchestra and many more, will come to the village, take to the stage and make this one of the most ambitious and exciting educational arts festivals in the country. Dame Judi Dench has thrown her support behind the Festival stating, “The way to get young people involved and interested in the theatre and the arts is to provide exciting works for them to see.” With so much to see and do throughout the week, it is impossible to list it all here! For further information and to get tickets, visit the Bradfield Festival website: bradfieldfestival.org.uk. 3

To book an appointment call

0118 988 5060 ONLINE BOOKING AVAILABLE

Visit our website at blissimibeauty.com

4

Basingstoke Road | Spencers Wood | RG7 1AA

Hair Removal

A stunning boutique salon with a haven of tranquil treatment suites, a luxurious hair salon and a gorgeous retail space showcasing luxury hair, beauty and gift brands.

Fact or Myth?

Sunscreens

Vehicle Air Conditioning Servicing from £29.99... ummer is finally here ...How Refreshing in all its glory, but

S

are you one of those people who ‘goes a bit pink’ on those first few hot days? If you are, you’re not alone but with skin cancer rates increasing more than fivefold since the mid 1970s, we Brits need to make sure we are protecting ourselves. When you are out in the sun without proper protection from ultraviolet light exposure it can increase your risk of sunburn, wrinkles and skin cancer. So make sure you’re kitted out and ready with your sunscreen - even on cloudy days. Did you know 80% of the sun’s ultraviolet rays can pass through clouds? There is a fair bit of mis-information around sun protection, so let’s do some myth busting and get you ready for a safe, sunny summer! You don’t need sunscreen if you have dark skin or already have a tan. Wrong! Everybody, regardless of race, ethnic origins and skin type is subject to the damaging effects of exposure to the sun. Even those who tan easily and rarely burn should use sunscreen. A base tan is no substitute for sunscreen either. If you don’t like the way it feels on your skin, try a different brand as there are

0118 933 2338

Health & Beauty

a number of different creams and oils on the market now. Last year's bottle is still OK. No! It’s highly likely that last year’s bottle is not OK. Some sunscreens break down quickly, especially the ones that give you UVA protection, so check the expiry date on the bottle. If you’re using the right amount of sun screen right across the summer, you shouldn’t find yourself with left-overs year after year. An SPF-15 provides half as much protection as SPF-30. Wrong! Sunscreen with SPF-15 protects against 93% of UVB rays, while an SPF30 protects against 97% of UVB rays. Super High SPF numbers (SPF-100+) are mostly marketing ploys. Most experts believe SPF-30 is enough, provided you use the right amount. The amount of sunscreen you use doesn’t matter, as long as you use it. No! Most people don’t use enough and most people certainly don’t re-apply every 2 hours as is recommended. At least the equivalent of a shot glass full is needed for most adults and experts don’t rate the ‘all day protection’ or water-proof sunscreens highly either, so keep re-applying throughout the day to stay safe.

The SPF in my makeup is enough. Hmmm...maybe. You should wear at least an SPF of 30. The easiest approach is to use a facial moisturiser that already has sunscreen in it. It's fine to have sunscreen in your makeup, but consider it an extra layer, not your main safeguard. If you don’t like the shine of oil, try a different brand that will give you a matte finish on your skin. Better to be safe than sorry! I’ve slapped the sunscreen on my face, arms, legs and back, so I’m ready for the sun. Hang on! You may have overlooked some key areas. The ears and the back of the neck are often neglected and are prone to burning. And you can also get sun burn on your scalp, so wearing a hat is a good way to get protection. You can always apply sunscreen to partings in the hair or, dare I say it, bald patches! Don’t neglect your lips either . It’s recommended that you wear a lip balm with an SPF of at least 30. So, whether you are going out for a day at the beach or enjoying a garden party, remember: apply sunscreen, and apply it often!

Your local MOT Testing Station

www.spratleys.co.uk

/spratleysautocare 60/62 Victoria Road | Mortimer | Reading | RG7 3SG *

eye

For furtherwarranty information, and advice about Value service suitable for vehicles outside of their manufacturer’s period, up tohelp 2.2 To contribute, advertise or let us know youroilnews 0118 907and 6200 or plugs emailatinfo@villageeye.co.uk litre, excluding 4x4 and LCVs; includes semi-synthetic and please oil filter.call Fuel filter spark additional cost. Value service may not be suitable for all vehicles. Subject to availability. Conditions apply.

Professionally trained, experienced technicians and MOT testers Same day, on site MOTs* Free courtesy cars* www.spratleys.co.uk Free local collection and delivery* While you wait appointments Value Service and MOT from £149*

0118 933 2338

staying safe in the sun visit :www.nhs.uk

facebook.com/villageeyemagazine

5

eye

Health & Leisure

DIGthis By Susan & Andrew Port, Mortimer Physiotherapy Centre

J

une is here, and with better weather many people’s thoughts are turning to the garden, which is hopefully sprouting into life following a long hard winter. But before rushing out there with secateurs and hedge cutters, please consider the following hints: Before starting any gardening, warm up a little bit. Circle your shoulders around backwards, stretch your back by leaning over backwards and sideways, and walk around the garden to loosen your legs.

Mortimer

Physiotherapy practice

combined with professional of staff, makes for the perfec

School learning. Plan the section of hedge you want to cut. Make sure you have good access to it, and be as close as possibleHere to at Jubilee Day Nursery from 3 months to 4 ½ years that everyone, regardless of the hedge, as overreaching with a weight in your hands opportunity to enjoy our bea will badly strain your shoulders and elbows. If possible, For example, our baby’s first attack the hedge from both sides, rather than stretching woods is when they are take go for walks, this quickly pro over to reach the far side of the top. If you are using around in the bluebells in th in the stream, in their wellies a ladder or platform, be very careful to only do small When the children are old en shown how to build fires so sections at a time and don’t be tempted to over stretch! isn’t quite so warm we can s Move the platform along and start again. Forest school learning is the learning process. Our qualifi When one section is complete, have a cuppa and admire children’s outdoor learning e shaping opportunities to exp your handywork, and give your body a chance to recover provides opportunities for th before moving on! esteem and begin to negotia

flowing activities enable child in, whether it is building den

(with practitioners), or by us Weeding/planting: T Kneeling and stretching forwards to pull out weeds or P E put in bedding plants can put a huge strain on your low b P back. To avoid this, try keeping one leg bent up with your foot flat on the floor, and kneel on the other leg. From this position, as you lean forwards to reach the weeds or plant things, your weight will be taken through your flexed leg and thus protect your back. And again, only small sections at a time, and stand up and have a good stretch before beginning the next bit.

Digging: At risk of sounding repetitive, the key here is small chunks at a time! Half an hour is plenty, after which you will deserve a break.

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

Hedge Cutting: Caution: Before you start hacking your hedges, remember to check them for nests. If there are any present, then Our Great Ou the hedges should be left alone. The most important thing Forest Schooling to remember is that you DON’T need to trim the entire At Jubilee our aim is to inspir children to become confiden hedge in one go! Pace yourself! An afternoon of holding learners. a vibrating hedge cutter at arm’s length can cause emphasis on o problems in your wrists, elbows and shoulders, so aimWith toa strong actively using our own, priva paddock as well as a fully wo do about half an hour at a time, and then have a break. wooded area complete with

Tel: 0118 933 3896 Text: 07951 840643

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

If you have a lot of different chores to do, swap things around a bit: Half an hour hedge trimming, then a bit of weeding, followed by some digging will stop you from overusing particular muscle groups and will help you get more done without too many aches and pains at the end of it. Enjoy your gardening, but be able to enjoy the results of your hard work without grimacing every time you get up or reach for the teapot!

ESTABLISHED FOR 15 YEARS, YOUR LOCAL PRIVATE PHYSIOTHERAPY CLINIC. NOW ACCEPTING NHS REFERRALS

(NHS REFERRALS ACCEPTED FROM WEST BERKSHIRE GPs)

Our Great Outd Forest Schooling

To contribute, advertise or let us know your news please call 0118 907 6200 or email info@villageeye.co.uk

6

At Jubilee our aim is to inspire an facebook.com/villageeyemagazine children to become confident ind learners.

With a strong emphasis on our ou actively using our own, private, 53

Eye on Health & Beauty

e h t h c t i D

Megan’s Moments

y t s a P

With the sun peaking through the clouds, we’re starting to feel a bit ‘pasty’ here in the Village Eye office. Being tanned is often linked to self-esteem, with many women (and increasingly men too) saying they feel more confident, slimmer and healthier when they’ve ‘had a tan’, this month, I thought I’d bring my pick of this summer’s best beautifying bronzers. The last thing you want to hear in your head after slathering on a self tanner is that Oompa-Loompa song. We’ve all been duped by too-orange self tanners, no? Nothing’s worse than trying to do the right thing by avoiding the sun and arduously applying a lotion, cream, foam, gel or spray to your body, only to wind up with dark elbows and streaky legs! My top tip? Always exfoliate first, moisturise and never every try any apply without using a tanning ‘mit’ !

If there is anything you would like to see me review or any ideas for which beauty topics I should cover next, then feel free to contact me at megan@villageeye.co.uk xx

Sienna X Gradual Glowing Self Tan, £15.95 Sienna X’s moisturising Gradual Glowing Self Tan lotion gives - from the spray tan experts themselves - one of the most natural tans we’ve ever seen, with a delicious coconut vanilla scent. The almond oil restores the skin’s elasticity and smoothness, while the aloe vera and cocoa butter soothes and softens. Apply two coats to achieve a deep glow which stays for days and days.

Clarins Delicious Self Tanning Cream, £23 This is an oldie but a goody. Packed full of skin enhancers, it smells like chocolate and leaves behind a caramel shade on skin before developing into a really luxe looking shade. It is quite sticky so not one to apply in the morning; you need to stand around the bathroom for about five minutes to let it sink in. But for a tan this good looking that’s perfectly acceptable.

Nip+Fab 365 Body Glow Fix, £9.95 If you’re not looking to break the bank but want an all-year-round glow, never fear! Nip+Fab’s first fake tan, the 365 Body Glow Fix, is definately a winner. The clear gel smoothes on easily, and develops into a natural colour in just four hours - without leaving a trace of that horrid biscuit smell. Lovely.

Fake Bake 60 Minutes Self Tan Liquid, £25 Fake Bake has long been one of the top go-to brands for the best fake tans, and now they’ve formulated their fastest ever developing tanning lotion that provides you with a natural sun-kissed glow in just 60 minutes. This pioneering timesaving liquid boasts a fast-drying DHA and erythrulose complex making it perfect for last minute body prepping.

spray tanning £15 £20

/pr ents stud

om*

in the comfort of your own home

ts

Adul

Single tans, Groups & pre- prom Discount offered for group bookings Call Lisa on

07776 146104

*prices include travel to your home within 5 mile radius of Mortimer

Rimmel Sunshimmer Instant Tan Water Resistant, £3.49 A great fake tan doesn’t have to break the bank. Rimmel’s matte tan budget buy, which comes in a choice of two shades, provides a gorgeous natural looking bronze while keeping skin nourished and moisturised. Not only that, but this water resistant version won’t streak in the rain.

7

COME TO MORTIMER

FUN DAY Sat

FAMILY

4 July th

FUN

MORTIMER FAIRGROU

FREE DAYTIME ENTRY

NTS

LOADS OF EVE

E

U THER SEE YO

VISIT OUR B

EACH!

ACTIVITIES FROM 10:30am COUNTRY CRAFTS WELSH AXEMEN CLASSIC CARS

DOG DISPLAYS WELLY WANGING

SCOTTISH PIPERS

SMASHING STALL MARKET STALLS FOOD HALL

BURGER BAKE-OFF BAR PIRATES

MORRIS DANCERS

16M SLIDE

4-IN-1 BUNGEE TRAMPOLINE

AND MUCH MUCH MORE!!

Watch out for Fun Day volunteers selling raffle tickets outside Budgens and McColls in Mortimer in the weeks running up to the Fun Day itself for a chance to win lots of exciting prizes donated by our market row stallholders, sponsors and local businesses.

Wokefield Park

8

Our main sponsors this year

ND

on FUN DAY!

n Day.at you u F r e th tim at Morh? – then prove atorethaes wfoollroldws:

eye

es o oc f your p lasses and tim C Proud o . 2.00pm top dog nths) o m own a 2 1 2.30pm of nder) the age u r e d n d n a u s 3.00pm year ppy ( u 6 P 1 t ( s r e le B d 3.30pm ild Han Best Ch Tail 4.00pm st Waggie emale Dog 4.30pm tF Dog Pretties dsome Male ) r e v o d nd an ged an Most H an (8 years a s is jud r s te la g c e o V h D t c ea rch Bes kenchu before minutes s will go to Sto 0 1 to up tion Entr y is £2. All dona t s ju ts cos contact . please 559441 n e Rescue th s 43 erie or 078 ther qu e any o 118 9836470 tise.co.uk v a h u If yo on 0 inprac Practise ail: info@pets Pets in m e tively Alterna

W

ith summer just around the corner minds turn to Mortimer Fun Day 2015. Entry as always during the day is FREE! Mortimer Fun Day has attractions to keep the most discerning toddler or teenager happy, not to mention grandparents, and mum & dad too.

Mortimer Fun Day was created by Together in Mission as an affordable day out for families. When Mortimer Village Partnership (MVP) took over we embraced this idea and Mortimer Fun Day is now in its seventh successful year. You can spend the entire day wandering around the stalls, watching the arena, listening to music and enjoying the spectacle without spending a penny. Of course MVP hope you DO find something to spend on! There will be a thriving Market Row with over fifty stalls to browse around and many other stalls being run by local groups such as Mortimer First Responders, The Hurst Singers, and local Scout groups. Arena events include: The Welsh Axemen, showing amazing skills with razor-sharp axes simulating tree-felling and log-cutting, the colourful Shinfield Shambles with traditional Morris dancing and, back by popular demand, the Reading Scottish Pipers. Come along and see working dogs with diverse skills: Kennet flyball team and Berkshire Search and Rescue dogs. Budding

dancers can admire dancing by G Street Dancers and All Stars. New this year is our Budgens foodhall, this will showcase foodstuffs available locally, including a butcher and a baker, however, we can’t promise a candlestick maker! Old favourites such as the Assault Course, Bungee trampoline, Zorbs and Giant Slide are back. Pit your strength at the Calor WellyWanging, throw balls at the crockery smashing, knock down some skittles or show yours skills with burgers and BBQ in the Calor cook off. An intriguing new attraction – we have tanks! Take your little ones along to the Kid’s Fun Zone (sponsored by Davis Tate) and meet the pirates. These forgetful pirates have lost their treasure - help them find it for a chance to win Captain ‘Dog Gone’ Dog. Come along dressed as pirates and get a ‘looted lolly’ from the treasure chest. The pirates also need artists to join their crew so enter the colouring competition – details at www.mortimervillage. org.uk Don’t forget to try the range of refreshments: local sausages, burgers, Indian curries and of course, the good old-fashioned tea and cakes tent. If you like

your refreshments stronger, Laney & Dicks (MVP’s own Real Ale Pub) is open all day! No need to leave the event at all as Mortimer Music Live have a fantastic evening’s entertainment from 7.30pm with Queen II.

DARA

Portraits Activity Sponsors

9

T

he Apple Watch was launched back on April 24th with all the bells and whistles you would expect, but surprisingly, the watch is only available at a select few boutique stores around the world. You can buy it online or through the Apple Store app.

If you’re wondering what all the fuss is about, then read on for everything you really need to know about Apple’s new wearable.

options to swap this out for a leather band or a link bracelet. It has to be said, whichever option you go for, it’s probably the best looking smartwatch on the market.

To start off with, the Apple Watch isn’t that easy to use. It doesn’t mimic the iPhone in its commands. There aren’t any visual clues that more options are waiting if you press, or that anything will happen when you turn the knob. You eventually learn, but only by trial and error. Fitness fans have been eager to see how Apple Watch stacks in the fitnesstracking department. The good news is that it’s even better than expected with reviews reporting a very reliable heartrate reading.

The Apple Watch Sport is the cheapest Apple Watch and is on the market for £300. There’s a great range of pricing, depending on screen size and strap with the most expensive - a rose gold version - which costs £13,500. In terms of its design, Apple were keen to get away from the ‘techie watch’ look. There is a basic smooth, plastic bracelet which is nice, but there are

eye TECH

t Per fe cTIMING The watch is designed to be discreet, so that you can receive bits of information without being seen checking your phone. The Apple Watch has an ingenious taptic engine, which enables the Watch alert you to different digital notifications by silently tapping out one of several distinct patterns on your wrist. You learn the taps over time and begin to register them almost subconsciously!

by Eye Geek.

The battery will last all day, as advertised, but only just! There’s a power-reserve mode that can make it last a few hours longer, but then it only shows the time. Overall, if you’ve sampled wearable technology and can see its benefits for your lifestyle then the Apple Watch, quite simply, is better in almost every way than other wearables on the market. If you haven’t yet made the leap from phone or tablet to a ‘wearable’ then I would argue that beautiful and clever though it is, the Apple Watch isn’t yet a must-have.

The Apple Watch does rely on your iPhone to do most of the ‘work’, so you’ll need a companion iPhone nearby for many of its functions to run. Sometimes, though, it can be painfully slow. The watch can function minimally on its own if it finds wireless connectivity.

Elizabeth Kempson Hairdressing 10% Off for new clients 07748 922615

elizabethkempson23@gmail.com

18-20 West End Road, Mortimer To contribute, advertise or let us know your news please call 0118 907 6200 or email info@villageeye.co.uk

10

facebook.com/villageeyemagazine

Engagement Party Packages Available from £499 Inc. VAT

Package Includes: Private Room, Dance Floor, Cash Bar, Finger Buffet for 50 guests and Overnight Accommodation for the couple including Full English Breakfast.

Anniversary Party Packages Available from £749 Inc. VAT

Package Includes: Private Room, Dance Floor, Cash Bar, 3 Course Sit Down Meal for 50 Guests and Overnight Accommodation for the couple including Full English Breakfast.

Christening Party Packages Available from £9.95pp Inc. VAT

Package Includes: Private Room, Dance Floor, Cash Bar and a Finger Buffet

Children’s Party Packages

Available from £4.95pp Inc. VAT Package Includes: Private Room, Dance Floor, Hot or Cold Children’s Menu, Jugs of Squash, Goody Bag for each child and a Cash Bar. Entertainment and themed packages available, prices available upon request.

In West Berkshire, we threw away over 854 tonnes of cardboard in our black bins last year! That is the same weight as For further details ask at reception for our Event Co-ordinator or call 0118 971 4411 400 rhinos! This cardboard could have easily been recycled in your green box! Holiday Inn Reading - West Padworth Lane, Bath Road, Padworth, Reading, RG7 5HT Telephone:  0118 9714411 Fax: 0844 7744385 Email:  sales.hireading@kewgreen.co.uk www.holidayinn.com/readingwest

READING - WEST

Packages subject to availability, terms and conditions apply.

Experience L’Ortolan for £5!

eye ds

Recommen

(which goes to a great charity, Alexander Divine)

If you have ever wanted to take a peek behind the doors at L’Ortolan, then this is a great opportunity to do so, for just £5 (all of which will go directly to local children’s charity Alexander Divine)! On Friday 19th June, they are inviting locals to their Open Day dedicated to celebrations, special occasions and private dining. The restaurant will be open from 10:30am to 2pm where you can enjoy a complimentary cocktail and canapés as Make your cardboard is broken you walk around the restaurant and takesure in the many down be smaller wonderful displays, demonstrations and to tastings. Their than 45cm x 45cm, private dining rooms will be dressedso ready to impress too,box. it will fit in your to show you just how elegant it looks for special occasions. To pledge your £5 to Alexander Divine obtain Don’tand forget to your separate the cardboard from ticket, visit www.eventbright.co.uk and key L'ortolan other packaginginto before you put it in your box. the search box.

If you have lots of large cardboard boxes, these can be taken to one of our recycling centres visit: www.westberks.gov.uk/villageeye to find your nearest centre.

working in partnership

11

Supporting Supporting

12

CLEAN HOUSE SERVICES

SOME LIKE IT

simply professional...

We are a small friendly company offering high standard domestic and commercial cleaning services, ironing and curtain fitting services, using professional equipment and products. We are also offering carpet cleaning service, and cleaning of furniture, windows and ovens.

Regular & One-Off Cleaning Home & Office Cleaning End of Tenancy Cleaning Before & After Party Cleaning Pre/Post Holiday Cleaning Spring Cleaning

Curtain Alteration Service Domestic Carpet Cleaning Ironing (free collection & delivery)

Call: 0759 362 7139 info@cleanhouseservices.co.uk

Precious T hymes Florist & Gift Shop offering the following: • Flowers • Gifts • Birthdays Weddings • Special Occasions Shabby Chic Gifts • Balloons Sympathy • Corporate

This month sees the inaugural Reading Chilli Festival. Taking place on Saturday, 20th June in the heart of Reading. The festival will be held at Market Place and the Town Hall and will feature a stellar line up of the very best of the UK's chilli industry. Brought to you by Dawn Massam (Oxfordshire Chilli Festival) and Jon Doody, (UK Chilli Cook Off Association) the festival is a celebration of our hot little friends. A great day out for chilli fans and food lovers alike, the organisers have arranged a fabulous line-up of stalls selling all things chilli, from sauces to chutneys, chilli plants to spicy condiments and seeds to ceramics.

no Chilli Festival would be complete without the odd challenge or contest, and Reading’s Festival is no exception - Throughout the day there will be a number of Man v Food style challenges, including a hot wing challenge! “We will give people 50 hot wings but a couple of them with

There will be more than 35 chilli related stalls which showcases artisan food producers and street food from around the world - we hear that there will also be chilli flavoured iced cream on sale! To cool off, you’ll be able to wash it all down with a locally produced beers, wines or even a cocktail or two whilst listening to top local bands playing live on stage. And

be rogue, super-hot wings - they won't know which ones they are” explained Dawn. These challenges reach a fiery crescendo in the evening with a knockout chilli eating competition on the main stage. Are you up for the challenge? You can keep up to date with all the spicy news by following @ReadingChilli on Twitter.

Online shop & ordering service

www.preciousthymes.co.uk Local and national deliveries available for all online and in store orders...

Flowers for all Occasions

0118 981 3111 46 Bishopswood Road | Tadley | RG26 4HD

Tickets on Sale NOW! 0118 930 2295 13

VoUS

2015

THE TRIBUTE FESTIVAL

SATURDAY 25th & SUNDAY 26th JULY

WELLINGTON COUNTRY PARK SATURDAY Queen Foo Fighters Dolly Parton Bruce Springsteen Bob Marley The Kinks Oasis Festival Camping & Glamping

Superb Catering Concessions Drinks from the Marv Bar!

The Big Kids’ Village

SUNDAY Fleetwood Mac Abba Pink Floyd Michael Jackson Duran Duran Ed Sheeran SPECIAL GUESTS The Bogus Brothers

Sunday spitfire flypast

Second Stage Marquee

Funfair Rides

Napoleonic Re-enactors

* Terms & Conditions apply. Open Event opening times: Friday 9am -6pm, Saturday 9am - 1pm

14

www.marvellousfestivals.com

WIN A VoUS FAMILY SATURDAY 25th & SUNDAY 26th JULY TICKET! WELLINGTON COUNTRY PARK

eye

2015

THE TRIBUTE FESTIVAL

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

Every July, Marvellous Festivals transform a Queen beautiful oak studded deer park into a magicalMac festival Fleetwood arena, complete with a giant stage and sound and light system. Wellington Country Park is the Fooa Fighters perfect venue for this feast of music, fun and great weekend with friends and family. Abba

Dolly Parton

a family ticket to Marvellous’ 15 Marvellous Saturday

Pink Floyd

All of the acts taking to the main stage over the course of the weekend are world class tributes to Bruce Springsteen Jackson some of the greatest artistes and bands of our time. With a stunning line Michael up of some 14 bands Queen, Foo Fighters, Bob Marley, Dolly Parton, Bruce on the main stage, featuring the music of Bob Marley Duran Duran Springsteen, Oasis, The Kinks, Fleetwood Mac, Abba, Pink Floyd, Michael Jackson, Duran Duran, The Kinks Ed Sheeran GUESTS Ed Sheeran and a special performance from The Bogus Brothers! SPECIAL This insanely good party The Bogus Brothersset band will be rounding off the weekend inOasis style with an explosive, dynamic and energetic which promises to leave the audience exhausted and amazed at their unique choreographed Festival Camping & Glamping Sunday spitfire flypast (including a Spitfire flypast on the Sunday.) mayhem..! There really is something for everyone Superb Catering Concessions

The Best Family Music Festival

Marvellous 19 & 20 july 2014 wellington country park

Second Stage Marquee

Drinks from the Marv Bar! The team behind Marvellous are fiercely proud of the festival’s well-earned Funfair Rides reputation as beingThe the Big mostKids’ family-friendly in the region. Village event Napoleonic Re-enactorsApart from the action on the main stage, there will also be a second stage which will see local acts performing to the crowds. There’s loads of stuff for the kids too, including face-painting, drama & dance workshops, bouncy castles, balloon modelling (like you’ve never seen before) and circus skills workshops. You can also enjoy all the fun of the fair with several major rides to choose from as well as some gentler rides for the younger audience. Festival-goers can choose to come on either day, or go thewww.marvellousfestivals.com whole hog and purchase a weekender ticket, pitch a tent and set up camp. (Glamping is also available)

Check out www.marvellousfestivals.com

Tickets & full details of the line up - including a short video of last year’s event are available on their website www.marvellousfestivals.com along with all the information you need to ensure you have an amazing time this year. If you’re new to Marvellous, and still need convincing then you may also be interested in checking out the photo galleries of past years too.

With great music, family fun, great food & drink, a fairground plus some extra special surprises, Marvellous’15 represents superb value for money and is truly not to be missed! If you haven’t got your tickets yet, why not put the weekend of July 25th & 26th in your diary, and use the event as a good excuse to get a bunch of your friends and family together for a fab, fun time!

Spitfire Sunday

Village Eye have secured a family ticket for the Sunday to give away! For your chance to win this exciting prize, please visit www.villageeye.co.uk click the competition link and answer the following question by midnight on Tuesday June 30th: Q. At this year’s Marvellous Festival, what is the name of the ‘energetic and explosive party band which promises to cause amazement and mayhem? a: The Blues Brothers b: The Bogus Brothers c: The Everley Brothers

Easy eh? Good luck. The winner will be contacted by telephone on Wednesday July 1st.

Terms and Conditions at villageeye.co.uk

To contribute, advertise or let us know your news please call 0118 907 6200 or email info@villageeye.co.uk

facebook.com/villageeyemagazine

15

RAPID COMPUTER SUPPORT

E-cigarettes in the workplace

T

he law which dictates many of the rules and regulations that affect our working lives is constantly evolving. Sometimes change comes about to give effect to government and European policy and sometimes it is driven by changes in people’s behaviour. In a recent example of changes in behaviour the Employment Tribunal considered a claim brought by a school catering assistant alleging that she had been constructively dismissed by her employer.

In the case of Insley v Accent Catering, The secondary school at which Miss Insley worked complained to her employer, Accent Catering that Miss Insley had been using e-cigarettes in full view of pupils. The school wrote to Miss Insley to say that it wanted to see her at a disciplinary hearing and Miss Insley resigned and started Employment Tribunal proceedings for constructive dismissal. She claimed that the employer’s actions amounted to a fundamental breach of her contract. The Employment Tribunal disagreed and found that the school had acted entirely properly. This is the first case that has considered the use of e-cigarettes.

FREE car park at rear of office Offices also at Tadley, Staines and Richmond EMAIL office@rmtadley.co.uk WEB www.rowberrymorris.co.uk 16

your local mobile IT helpdesk! HIRED

In 2007 it became law that almost all workplaces in England had to be smoke free. However, the existing health and safety legislation does not currently apply to the use of e-cigarette vapers and cannot be used to justify taking disciplinary action against e-cigarette vapers. However, the increasing use of e-cigarettes has led to increased concern about their use. In 2014 Public Health England found the risks from passive inhalation of the vapour were low, while the World Health organisation concluded that the vapour contained nicotine and other toxic particles. The debate will continue. The case did not consider what would have happened if Miss Insley had been dismissed or what would have happened if a parent had complained to the school. There will almost certainly be future cases that do consider those issues unless new legislation clarifies the position. What do your smoking policies and disciplinary procedures say about the use of e-cigarettes? For practical and cost-effective advice for employers and employees contact Anna Illingworth at Rowberry Morris Solicitors. 0118 9585611 anna. illingworth@ rowberrymorris. co.uk

Reading Office 17 Castle Street Reading West Berkshire RG1 7SB TEL: 0118 958 5611

If you have computer problems, we can help you with:

• • • • • • • • • • • • •

VIRUS REMOVAL & PROTECTION MAXIMISE SECURITY HARDWARE REPAIR OR UPGRADE SOFTWARE REPAIR OR UPGRADE INTERNET AND EMAIL SETUP/TROUBLESHOOTING IMPROVE COMPUTER PERFORMANCE SUPPLY AND INSTALL OF ANY TYPE OF COMPUTER HELP WITH MOBILE PHONE SYNCRONIZATION DATA TRANSFER DESKTOP APPLICATIONS SOFTWARE INSTALLATIONS ONE-TO-ONE TUITION SUPPORT CONTRACTS AVAILABLE

x no fi e e f no

call us now

01256 560070

All w guar ork ante ed

All in the comfort of your home or office Freephone: 0800 228 9138 Cedar Gables, Meadow Park, Sherfield-on-Loddon,RG27 0DH

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 t: 0118 982 0788 m: 0776 025 5063 e: tadley@barn-store.co.uk

www.barn-store.co.uk

• Efficient, reliable & friendly • Fixed fee options • FREE consultation

Relax. We’ve Got Your Finances & Accounts Covered This Summer...

Do You Need A New Accountant This Year? * Conditions apply

Our services include: • Limited company year-end accounts • Management accounts & bookeeping services • Tax compliance & tax planning • VAT & payroll • Business start-ups & incorporations • Personal tax & advanced personal tax experts • Company secretarial • Contractor packages • Sole trader & partnership accounts. 10% Discount off 1st years fees when you mention this advert*.

Reading 0118 983 3473 Basingstoke 01256 883 012 mel@melaniecurtisaccountants.co.uk www.melaniecurtisaccountants.co.uk

• FREE bookeeping software • Over 18 years experience 17

eye

Business & Finance

Post-election pondering with Mark Penston

I

n last month’s article I reported how most economists and investment managers were speculating that the General Election would result in a hung parliament or coalition. Markets held their breath and it would seem have now sighed with relief. As far as investment markets are concerned the result of the election was an unexpected gift. The markets like nothing more that predictable, stable Governments and continuity will mean that Government plans can be seen through.

Independent Financial Advice • Investments • Pensions & Retirement Planning • Inheritance Tax Planning • Long Term Care • Mortgages For an initial consultation call Mark Penston on:

But it won’t be plain sailing. There remain systematic problems that have yet to play out. As I write Greece is due to pay around €770m in debt repayments and no one seems to know if they can afford to do this. It’s fair to say that Greece is not the only country burdened with record debts. In the run up to the General Election the Conservatives made increasingly generous promises that now have to be fulfilled. Delivering limits on tax increases while repaying our own debts will no doubt create some head scratching in Downing Street. The outcome of Euro negotiations and the referendum in 2017 will also be part of the jigsaw that forms the future financial picture of the UK.

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

3 Chalfont Court, Lower Earley, Reading, Berks, RG6 5SY BlueSKY Independent Financial Advisers LLP is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Your home is at risk if you do not keep up payments on your mortgage or other loans secured on it.

As posted on the Conservatives facebook page, the 2015 elected Conservative MPs

Need a Solicitor? Contact John L Banky Solicitors It should be remembered that change will always be present in investment markets. We know of nervous investors who sold their investments and held cash after the debt crisis in 2008 and have since seen the FTSE double. The investment principles we adopt with our clients remains the same: Stay invested in a wide range of different assets and chase the good performers. The simple reason is that this works in delivering predictable returns over the long term. So it’s business as usual here at Bluesky. The changes in pension legislation allowing unrestricted access to pension funds have created a wave of enquiries. Our challenge here is to determine where full fund withdrawal is appropriate and where it is not. I don’t think we are alone in turning away business where we are just not comfortable that a client’s short term objectives are beneficial to them in the long term. The Revenue’s stance on the taxation of pension fund withdrawals can also create some unintended consequences. As ever, the seemingly simple headlines are accompanied by some more complicated small print. Timely advice can help ensure that the surprises are positive!

Mark 18

A traditional and friendly law firm based in Theale, just off Junction 12 of the M4 offering a professional approach over a comprehensive range of Legal Services.

•

All areas of conveyancing

•

Commercial Property

•

Wills and Probate

•

Contested Probate/Inheritance Claims

•

General Litigation

For advice please call:

0118 930 4630 john@johnlbankysolicitors.co.uk

Experienced legal consultancy

Open Monday - Friday 9am - 5pm 18a High Street, Theale Berkshire, RG7 5AN www.johnlbankysolicitors.co.uk

Authorised and Regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA Number 538444)

fomo? Suffering From

by Graham Jones, Internet Psychologist

I

t is a pretty safe bet that you use one social network or another. Even if you are not one of the 71% of people who use Facebook, you might be amongst the 30% who use LinkedIn. Alternatively, you might be amongst the millions on Pinterest or Twitter or Instagram or any one of the hundreds of social networking sites that exist. Around a third of all Internet activity is now on social networking sites, so it’s pretty big stuff. Six of the top 20 websites in the world are social networking sites. The rest are mostly shops or search engines, so we clearly love social networking as much as we like surfing the web or shopping. That’s no surprise; after all human beings are social animals. Ultimately, without being social we’d never meet people and the human race would die out…! Being social is fundamental to our survival, so deep inside your brain is a constant drive for behaving socially. That is why so many people are attracted to online social networks – they help us fulfil a deep-seated desire to be with other individuals. However, there are plenty of worries about being social online. Parents are concerned it means their children spend too long staring at screens or checking their mobile phones. Plus, the more time we spend online, the less time we have to be with people in the “real world”. Even if we are with people in the real world, the desire to constantly check mobile phones appears to be prevalent. Who hasn’t sat in a pub or restaurant and seen couples face down in their mobile phones but not actually talking to each other? They could have stayed at home if they wanted to ignore each other..!

This habit of constantly checking your Facebook account or logging into LinkedIn to see the latest update is typical. Indeed, it has been labelled “FOMO” – the Fear of Missing Out. Some studies have shown that people cannot go more than 10 minutes without feeling the urgent need to check their phones to see if there is an update on a social network.

Sor r y, we don’t have

WliFjuist

yo u’l have to ch talk to ea other!

The real issue behind this is not knowing when you will get an update. So, one way of removing that fear of missing out is to have a routine. If you decide to check your Facebook

account, for example, every day at 9pm, you’ll know you will see the latest information. It’s a bit like having regular meal times – if you didn’t have breakfast, lunch and dinner at roughly the same time of day you would never know when the next meal was due, and you would, therefore, eat at every and any opportunity. Routine is one of the ways of turning a nasty habit into a positive one. Having a routine also means you get more out of social networking. For instance, let’s say you decided that every Sunday morning at 10am or thereabouts you’d settle down with a cuppa and check out all the latest posts in the Mortimer Village Partnership group on Facebook (the temptation to check on one of the site’s most recent fascinations ‘Doggy Do’ may just get the better of you). You’d then look forward to that regular event and after a while it would become a normal part of your life. Without doing this, you’d miss out on what the MVP group discusses because Facebook’s software prevents you from seeing things you do not regularly look at. Equally, if you are in Tadley, Aldermaston Wharf or Theale, you could check in each week with their groups, or even with the Burghfield and Mortimer Gossip Girls...! Whichever group is relevant to you, a regular, almost time-tabled, check-in will make your Facebook Timeline more focused and will also boost your enjoyment as you would not miss out on things. Establishing routines like this turns that checking every ten minutes habit into using social networks in a more pleasurable and effective way. If everyone does it, though, it will be much noisier in the Hatch or the Horse and Groom as everyone will start talking to each other instead of staring at their mobiles.

As a Web Psychologist, Graham focusses on how people behave online. An awardwinning writer, having written 29 books since he started his own business back in 1984, he is also a qualified psychologist and a Fellow of the Professional Speaking Association. Graham, who is based in Aldermaston is also a regular commentator and interviewee for many media outlets including national and international channels and publications. To read some of his fascinating insights into our online behaviours, visit www.grahamjones.co.uk

19

Theale 0118 930 3133 Burghfield Common 0118 983 3897 Tadley 0118 981 0494

Property of the Month Roundfield Upper Bucklebury One Bedroom Sustainable Home

Theale office

This newly built one bedroom detached bungalow is finished to a very high standard. Striking the perfect balance between conventional and open plan living with the accommodation being thoughtfully arranged, this property has an office (or second bedroom), and a rear aspect sitting room complete with kitchenette that enjoys views of, and access to, the Southerly facing rear garden via bi-fold doors. The property is perfectly positioned (within a two minute walk) for access to Little lane and Briff Lane which both provide access to miles of woodland walks. This property represents a rarely available bungalow close to both local amenities and country pursuits.

£300,000

£680,000 (Guide Price)

£525,000

Theale office

Midgham

Theale office

• Unique Oak-framed house

• 5 bedroom detached bungalow

• South facing rear garden

• 23ft kitchen/dining room

• Under floor heating

• Bedroom with ensuite

• Backing onto open fields

• Converted garage (annex potential)

• Private gated driveway

• Established rear garden

• Detached double garage

Theale

£460,000 (Guide Price)

£470,000

Theale office

Theale office

• Detached 4 Bedroom property

• 4 bedroom detached

• Integral garage

• 3 reception rooms

• Under floor heating

• 17’ kitchen/breakfast room

• Well kept garden

• Orangery with wood burner

Calcot

• Off road parking

• Ample driveway parking • Spacious accommodation

Burghfield Common Theale

£360,000

• Peaceful location

£320,000

Theale office

Padworth

• Non through road location

Theale office

• 3 bedroom semi family home

• 3 bedroom semi detached

• 34ft lounge

• Quiet ‘end of close’ location

• Separate dining room

• Driveway parking

• Study

• Sought after location

• South facing garden

• Garage

• Refitted kitchen with granite surfaces

Calcot

• Extended kitchen & Conservatory

Burghfield Common Mortimer Burghfield Village Aldermaston Wharf Beenham Midgham Woolhampton Sulhamstead Beech Hill Aldermaston Theale Bradfield Stanford Dingley Baughurst Tadley Ufton Nervet Spencers Wood Little London Brimpton Padworth Silchester Tutts Clump Tidmarsh Bradfield Southend Englefield Pamber Heath

20

www.parkersproperties.co.uk

Property of the Month St Johns Road Mortimer Burghfield Common Office

Quietly situated in a highly sought after private lane in Mortimer is this 3-storey detached family home which was built about eight years ago, being one of two unique and luxury homes. The property is immaculately presented and offers high quality contemporary fittings throughout including a superb fully fitted Kitchen/Breakfast room with granite work surfaces. The accommodation is exceptionally spacious and versatile being 2540 sq ft. Externally, there is a large block paved driveway and South facing 90ft rear landscaped rear Garden. Parkers are the vendors sole agents and an internal viewing is highly recommended.

£760,000 £799,950

£645,000

Burghfield Common office

Burghfield Common office

• Substantial ‘David Wilson’ home

• 5 bed split level family home

• 7-bedrooms, 4-Bathrooms

• Sought after village location

• Professional loft conversion

• Generous family accommodation

• 2805 sq ft of accommodation

• Self contained one bedroomed suite

• 24’5 Luxury Kitchen/Breakfast room

• Secluded gardens

• High quality fittings throughout

Burghfield

• Approximately 100ft x 80ft Garden

• Double Garage & workshop area

Spencers Wood

£525,000

£525,000

Burghfield Common office

Burghfield Common office

• Situated on 1 acre of Gardens

• 5-bedroom detached

• Perfect for a paddock

• 20’3 lounge

• Quiet rural location with views

• Study, Extended to Dining room

• Grade II listed 16th century cottage

• Luxury kitchen/Breakfast room

• 3-reception rooms & Conservatory • Oil fired central heating

Sulhamstead

• Utility, En-suite, family bathroom

Burghfield Common

£429,950

Burghfield Common office

• 3 Bedrooms

• Sought after location

• 27 ft Lounge / dining room

• Semi detached bungalow

• Dining Room & Conservatory

• 4/5 bedrooms

• 23 ft Kitchen / Breakfast room

• 3 reception rooms

• Detached Double Garage • 100ft Rear Garden

• South facing Garden, Garage

£399,950

Burghfield Common office

Burghfield Common Pingewood

Detached Home

• Burghfield St Mary’s catchment

Burghfield

• Farmland views

We’re here for your every move... 21

Theale 0118 930 3133 Burghfield Common 0118 983 3897 Tadley 0118 981 0494

Property of the Month Springfield Road Pamber Heath Three Bedroom Detached Home

Tadley office

A spacious detached family home situated in the sought after village of Pamber Heath. Accommodation comprises of a hall, cloakroom, fitted kitchen/breakfast room, spacious lounge/ dining room and conservatory. The first floor has 3 bedrooms and a family bathroom. Attached is a double width garage, driveway for vehicles and a good sized rear/side garden. The property has no onward chain.

£360,000

£450,000

£340,000

Tadley office

• 5 Bedrooms

• 4 good sized Bedrooms

• 3 Reception Rooms

• Spacious Lounge

• Kitchen/utility

• Kitchen/Dining Room

• Sas fired radiator heating

• En-suite shower

• Garage & Drive

• Garage & Driveway

• Small Garden

Tadley

Tadley office

Tadley

£245,000

£295,000

Tadley office

Tadley office

• 3 bedrooms

• 3 Bedrooms

• 3 receptions

• Sitting Room

• Kitchen

• Dining Room

• Utility

• Fitted Kitchen • Garage & Drive

Soldar Similired requ Tadley

22

• Cloakroom

• Shower Room

Tadley

• Enclosed Garden

Burghfield Common Tadley

£279,950

• Garage

£102,995

Tadley office

Tadley office

• 3 Bedooms

• Studio Flat

• 2 Receptions

• Lounge/Bedroom

• Fitted Kitchen

• Kitchen

• Driveway

• Bathroom

• Garage

• Parking

• Enclosed Garden

Tadley

• No Onward Chain

Burghfield Common Mortimer Burghfield Village Aldermaston Wharf Beenham Midgham Woolhampton Sulhamstead Beech Hill Aldermaston Theale Bradfield Stanford Dingley Baughurst Tadley Ufton Nervet Spencers Wood Little London Brimpton Padworth Silchester Tutts Clump Tidmarsh Bradfield Southend Englefield Pamber Heath

CHIMNEY SERVICES Williams Chimney Services is an established, professional family run chimney sweeping Business. Services we offer: •

A complete clean sweep service. Making sure your chimney or flue system is clean and efficient.

•

We protect your home from soot by sealing the appliance and using specialised vacuum.

•

Smoke test and Draw testing

•

Bird and vermin nest removal

•

CCTV inspections

•

Cowls and bird guards supplied and fitted.

•

We can supply you a wide range of caps cowls and bird guards. a fitting service is also available.

•

Advice on fuel types

BUILDING LOCALLY SINCE 1984

Renovations Extensions General Building Work Covering the RG7 area, Reading, Maidenhead & Basingstoke. References Available

How often should your chimney be cleaned? Smokeless coals: At least once a year, Wood: Once a season when in use Bitumous coal: Twice a year, Oil: Once a year, Gas: Once a year

Spring S p CCleaning? leanriing ng? Swee ps fr£44.00 from per o V

Web:

www.williamschimneyservices.co.uk

e-mail:

mail@williamschimneyservices.co.uk

All Work Guaranteed

m£

E Re 45 fo ato r derVillage sweep s Eye readers

We have a wealth of knowledge and experience in solid fuel, gas and oil appliances. Using the latest and most up to date equipment to make sure you and your appliance are safe and working efficiently.

Tel:

Sillince & Cooper

01189 712367

Reading Metal Recycling

For a competitive, no obligation quotation please call:

07789 902 091 or 0118 988 7590

Geoffrey Church & Co Funeral Directors

Alloy. Batteries. Braisery. Brass.Copper. Copper Tanks. Car Radiators. Dirty/Irony Alley. Electric Motors.Elements. Gun Metal. Household Wire. Lead. Iron. Low Amoured. Old Rolled/Clean Alloy. Stainless Steel.

Experts in metal recycling We accept everything from small domestic jobs to full factory clear outs. We are a Licensed waste carrier based in Burghfield. Demolition Site Clearances We can come and collect your scrap from site or you can bring your scrap to us and use our 50 ton weighbridge! Residential Scrap Metal Drop in your scrap metal from home, old copper pipes, washing machines, power cables etc. We will pay you top prices. Weirside Green Lane Burghfield Bridge Industrial Estate Reading RG30 3XN Mon-Sat 8am-6pm

(Opposite the Cunning Man)

For a personal and dignified service at all times...

• • • • •

Personal Service - 24 Hours Private Chapel of Rest All types of Memorials, supplied and fixed Pre-payment Funeral Plans Available Enquiries welcome

Tel: 868444 Tel:01635 0118 9814420 (24 (24hours) hours) Churchgate, 48 Bishopswood The Broadway Road,

Tel:01635 0118 868444 9814420 Tel:

THATCHAM TADLEY

0118 9500 470 0781 3443 763 www.readingmetalrecycling.co.uk

To contribute, advertise or let us know your news please call 0118 907 6200 or email info@villageeye.co.uk

(24hours) hours) (24

48Churchgate, Bishopswood Road, The Broadway

TADLEY THATCHAM

Keep it local ! Trades & Services Pages. Don’t forget to mention Village Eye when calling!

WILLIAMS

Tel: 686830 Tel: 01488 686830 (24 hours) hours) (24 48a High 48a High Street, Street,

HUNGERFORD HUNGERFORD facebook.com/villageeyemagazine

23

Keep it local ! Trades & Services Pages. Don’t forget to mention Village Eye when calling!

Helping you achieve the lawn you’ve always wanted.

Lawn Fertilising

Moss Control

Weed Killing

Scarification

Aeration

Lawn Mowing

For a FREE lawn assessment and quote with Phil call 01256 461388 or email rbf@supagrass.co.uk

www.supagrass.co.uk

No Signal? we’ll fix it

TV signal problems? We can help! Contact Toby on 07737 784 244 for a free quotation or email: info@bluebanana.tv • • •

• • •

Digital Television Aerials Radio Aerials, (DAB and FM) Sky HD & Freesat

Multiroom systems European satellites TVs mounted on walls

• • •

www.bluebanana.tv Home cinema systems IRS Systems Hidden cables

Want to rid your home of your old Artex ceilings? Spring 2013 version2quarter page landscape no Signal .indd 1

Plasterer? Need a Good, Local

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

• •• •

roller garage door centre

Free quotes

MTJ

Plastering Services

18 Chestnut Close | Theale| RG7 5DF

The closest you’ll get to the perfect Garage Door

Before

Friendly and professional service Will take on any plastering job, domestic and commercial

Repairs to existing systems, Domestic and Commercial Work undertaken 11/03/2013 09:47

With more than 10 years of experience in plastering, you can expect the highest standards and an excellent finish every time. Experienced team of specialist plasterers

• •

Want to rid your home of your old Artex ceilings?

After

UP to 45% off manufacturing price *Selected lines

T: 01189 817 300 W: www.rollergaragedoorcentre.co.uk

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

info@mtjplastering.co.uk

www.mtjplastering.co.uk

24

Phil Adshead runs Supagrass in the Hampshire and West Berks area. He has helped over 1000 customers improve their lawns, and has looked after the greens at two of the top 10 golf courses in the world including Augusta National.

07789 902 091 0118 988 7590

Police Recommended Insurance approved Head Office and Show Room Unit 7 Bacchus House, Calleva Park, Aldermaston, Reading, RG7 8EN

To contribute, advertise or let us know your news please call 0118 907 6200 or email info@villageeye.co.uk

FREE upgrades avaliable

facebook.com/villageeyemagazine

• Efficient, reliable & friendly • Fixed fee options • FREE consultation

Relax. We’ve Got Your Finances & Accounts Covered This Summer...

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

Windows Doors Do You Need A New Conservatories Accountant This Year? UPVC or Timber

* Conditions apply

Our services include:

• Limited company year-end accounts • Management accounts & One of the leading window, door and conservatory installers in Berkshire, bookeeping services • Tax compliance & tax planning • VAT & payroll offering free quotations and advice from a company with a formidable • Business start-ups & incorporations • Personal tax & reputation spanning 50 years. Choose from a wide range of products in a style and finish advanced personal tax experts • Company secretarial which will suit your budget and needs, we are only a phone call away. • Contractor packages • Sole trader & partnership accounts. 10% Discount off 1st years fees when you mention this advert*.

Reading 0118 983 3473 Basingstoke 01256 883 012

LAFFORD & LEAVEY LTD mel@melaniecurtisaccountants.co.uk ARROWHEAD ROAD, THEALE, READING, RG7 4AZ www.melaniecurtisaccountants.co.uk Tel: Reading (0118) 9303333 Fax: (0118) 9323707

Email: lafford.leavey@btconnect.com

• FREE bookeeping software • Over 18 years experience 25

Keep it local ! Trades & Services Pages. Don’t forget to mention Village Eye when calling!

VoUS are now taking bookings for the August/ THE WeTRIBUTE FESTIVAL September & October issues.

Do you need some general help around the house?

SATURDAY 25th & SUNDAY 26th JULY Yes, we know it isn’t even the height of summer yet - but we like to be organised! If you want to promote your product or service in the coming months, and would like us to help your business to sparkle, please call me for a chat.

I am a friendly, local & versatile handyman with 18 years in the building trade. Any and all work undertaken ...even gardening! Roofing and Lead-Work a speciality. Carpentry - Decorating - Patios - Fencing.

eye WELLINGTON COUNTRY PARK karen@villageeye.co.uk

? u in it are yo

0118 907 6200

So far, we have successfully helped over 250 local businesses to grow. We’d love to add your business to this happy list!

For all those jobs you have been putting off, I’ll be glad to help!

Phil Challis 07941 392954. phil.challis@virgin.net

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

Queen Fleetwood Mac FooSpring Fighters Abba is here, summer is just around the corner, time to think about our swimming pools! Whatever you need you won’t be disappointed with our outstanding quality and service. Dolly Parton Pink Floyd • Repairs & refurbishments • Leak detection • Servicing • Pool equipment • Chemicals Bruce Springsteen Michael 0118 930 6655 Jackson • Store and on-line shop • Covers Bob Marley Duran Duran The Kinks Ed Sheeran SPECIAL GUESTS Tadley Why Pay Pet Supplies Oasis The More? Bogus Brothers SWIMMING POOL & SPA SPECIALIST

www.ccmpools.com info@ccmpools.com

Our online shop offers next day delivery of stock items!

Arrowhead Road, Theale, Reading, Berkshire, RG7 4AD

You name it - we sell it!

Live Stock of Small Festival Camping & Glamping Animals, Birds & Superb Catering Concessions Tropical Fish FREE LOCAL DELIVERY SERVICE

0118 981 flypast 9996 Sunday spitfire

www.tadleypetsupplies.co.uk Second Stage Marquee See all the latest offers at facebook: Tadley Pet Supplies

Funfair Rides

Drinks from the Marv Bar!

We also stock Wild Bird Products, all at guaranteed low prices, with FREE LOCAL DELIVERY available

The Big Kids’ Village

4-5 THE FORGE (next to Tesco’s) HEATH END ROAD, BAUGHURST, TADLEY

CATKINS Napoleonic Re-enactors

Covered fresh air pens Insulated & heated cabins (personal inspections welcome) Established 27years

26

2015

WE HAND DELIVER THIS LOCAL MAGAZINE TO OVER 11,000 LOCAL HOMES & BUSINESSES EVERY MONTH!

BOARDING CATTERY Threeways, Silchester Road, Pamber Heath

0118 970 0296

www.marvellousfestivals.com

• • • • • • • •

FREE COLLECTION & DELIVERY SERVICE MOT TESTING While-you-wait testing available (by prior appointment) SENIOR CITIZENS CLUB Great discounts and helpful advice MECHANICAL REPAIRS GREAT DEALS ON TYRES FREE SHOCK ABSORBER TESTING BULBS & BATTERIES FITTED FREE WHILE YOU WAIT (You only pay fo the parts) VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR DETAILS AND SPECIAL OFFERS

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

WE MANUFACTURE

Garden Sheds. Garden Workshops. Summerhouses. Chalets. Bespoke Rooms. Playhouses • • • • • • • •

Over 50 years experience. A family run business. We us wood from renewable sustainable Over 50 years experience. managed forest. Over 70% of our sales come We do not use chipboard or plywood. Mention this advert Bolted assembly. from recommendation and receive a free wood Bespoke design available.A family run business treatment with every Helpful and friendly staff. shedrenewable purchased! We us wood from Value for money.

sustainable managed forest We do not use chipboard or plywood. Bolted assembly Bespoke design available

Tracking front & rear Camber angle KPI Castor angle Rear axle alignment Steering wheel position

Air Conditioning Recharge/Service

Special offer £48.50 + vat

Please contact SERVICE RECEPTION on

www.mendemmotors.co.uk

New Line Sheds

• • • • • •

0118 970 2222

James W Fisher Property Maintenance

PAINTING & DECORATING All interior and exterior decorating, carpentry and small building work. 25 years experience. CONTACT JAMES TODAY FOR A FREE QUOTATION. No job too small:

0118 971 2245

OFFICE: 01189 831246 Mobile: 07766 646430 Email: info@jwfisher.co.uk www.jameswfisher.co.uk

Padworth Saw Mills, Rag Hill, Padworth, Reading, RG7 4NU

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

www.newlinesheds.co.uk

Keep it local ! Trades & Services Pages. Don’t forget to mention Village Eye when calling!

HOFMANN 3D 4 WHEEL ALIGMENT COMPUTER SYSTEM

SAVE MONEY ON FUEL & TYRES

27

Keep it local ! Trades & Services Pages. Don’t forget to mention Village Eye when calling!

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

Sales - Service - Repairs What we do:

• • • •

Vehicle servicing We specialise in cam belts We fit engines and gear boxes Pre MOT checks and can arrange MOT • Diagnostics on most vehicles car servicing & repairs SALES• -Classic SERVICE - REPAIRS • Car, van and 0199 classic car sales 0118 971 • Valeting service

WHAT WE DO:

• • • • • • • •

Servicing We specialise in cam belts A4 We fit engines and gear boxes Holiday Inn arrange MOT Pre MOT checks and can Padworth JC Motorwise Diagnostics on most vehicles Classic car restoration Car, van and classic car sales Valeting services

WORKSHOP:

Unit 1 Clovelly Works A4 Bath Road Padworth Jct 12 M4 Reading Sainsbury’s RG7 5HR

0 7 7 6 9 0 1 1 8 9

JW’s

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

TOTAL CLEARANCE SPECIALISTS

House, Garden & Business

Estab

32

lishe d

Licensed Waste Carrier

Year

s

• Trusted Family Business • Business Removals • Probate & Household

Responsible Recycling & Disposal

Contact Mark or Jon (0118) 9710199 or visit www.jcmotorwise.co.uk

Please call:

0118 971 0199

JC MOTORWISE has been part of the car sales and repair market for many years, looking after private

and corporate customers. We have a strong customer focus. We do everything we can to comply with your wishes, provide you with comprehensive advice and take pride in offering you the best solution for your needs. For us, mutual trust is the basis for good co-operation. Reliable, fair and competent – get to know us today. Myself and my partner Mark Smith look forward to seeing old and new customers alike at our new premises.

www.jcmotorwise.co.uk sales.jcmotorwise@gmail.com

WESTMINSTER HOUSE, A4 BATH ROAD, PADWORTH, BERKSHIRE, RG7 5HR

Beech Hill KitchenBathroomDesign

Give us a call

We’ll load up our vans

We’ll even clean up

We’ll then take the items away

For further information, please call us on:

0118 933 3683 Based at Lakeside Garden Centre, Tadley

Offering a complete & affordable Kitchen and bathroom service. From Design, Fit, Fit only, Installation, Electrics, Plumbing, Plastering, Tiling & Painting, we are a friendly, reliable, local family business. If you are thinking of upgrading your Kitchen or Bathroom in 2015, keep it local and give us a call! References and photos available.

Celebrating 40 Years! For a no obligation quotation for your next project, please give us a call 01189882676 0118 988 2676 07590267711

07590 267711

Cannon Bridge Trowes Lane Beech Hill RG7 2BG

28

Homes & Leisure

eye

? S K L O F Q B B A Y C FAN . . . D E T I V N I L L A E R YOU A

...BUT ONLY IF YOU PROMISE TO BE PERFECT GUESTS! Barbecue season. We all love it don’t we? As soon as the sun shines we invite our friends to come on over and enjoy some food ‘al fresco’ - weather permitting. But the BBQ road is fraught with the ever-present threat of that annoying guest. We all know them, don’t we? They come in all shapes and sizes and, purely for our own entertainment and yours, we’ve rounded up a list of 5 guests that you may recognise!

The Food Poisoning Police

“Hmm, this burger still looks a bit red. Can you put it on a bit longer for me? ... A little longer, I can still see some pink there ... yeah, a bit longer, it’s still a bit brown.”

The Back-Seat Griller

“Didn’t you already turn that one over? You shouldn’t turn the food as often. You didn’t put salt in already, did you? You shouldn’t salt it until the very end, so it stays juicy. You should hold down the middle so the burger doesn’t balloon out.

The Fussy Eater

“No, that’s fine, don’t go out of your way. I don’t like greens or salad really. No, it’s fine, I’m not really a fan of meat. Thanks, but bread really bloats me, just my funny little ways...I ate before I came. Really, it’s fine!”

The Free Loader

“Now, before I go ... the six-pack of beer I brought with me, is that still floating around? I think there are still five beers left, so I’ll take them back with me. Wow, looks like a lot of people left their drink and food here! There’s no way you’ll use all this, so I can take the crisps and sausage rolls back with me, no problem.”

The Hungry Latecomer

“Heeeeeeey! I finally made it and I really fancy a hot dog. I know I’m running a bit late, but we can get the barby going again, can’t we? And if you could whip up some potato salad, that would be really great. Where is everybody?” It makes you wonder why we do it. So next time you’re at a BBQ, see if you can spot them!

Keep Updated locally

/villageeyemagazine

29

Make your pledge to recycle one more thing…

in our black bins could nearly half of the rubbish but ing ycl nce. rec at d goo could make a big differe In West Berkshire we are one more thing then we just e ycl rec to d trie all be recycled. If we more thing? g a pledge to recycle one Could you help by makin s? This includes your kerbside recycling bin items you can place into can take lots nt ere you s diff plu , the ste all w wa kno Do you food waste and garden s, can , tles ut what you bot abo stic re pla You can learn mo paper, card, glass, r local Recycling Centre! you e at ycl rec ing ycl uk/ rec ov. for ks.g ials ber more mater s at www.west itional recycling bins/boxe add er ord or e ycl rec can our black bins. Follow are still thrown away in ard dbo car d you and er pap amount of paper and car Surprisingly each year rt recycling or boost the sta you p hel to tips these simple currently recycle: and envelopes with old, torn or screwed up, are y the if n eve ed ycl rec ng the plastic bit. Any newspapers can be recycle box without removi r you into t igh stra ced windows can be pla fits than 45cm x 45cm so it ken down to be smaller bro is ing ycl ard rec dbo al car loc r r you you t Make sure tha large cardboard to rry you can always take kaging, e.g. in the box, but don’t wo cardboard from other pac e ycl rec and te ara sep to get for ’t centre. Lastly, don bar packets. cardboard trays in cake

get to watch out for a dif ference! Don’t for ke ma es do lly rea g clin Recy th June. RECYCLE WEEK 22nd-28

Excellent all-round education for boys and girls aged 11-18 Open House every Friday morning Drop in at 9.30am for coffee with the Head and a tour of the school

New School Bus covering the RG7 area from Sept 15 www.luckleyhouseschool.org Luckley Road, Wokingham T: 0118 978 4175 E: Registrar@luckleyhouseschool.org 30

ne

Recycle

More Thing

In West Berkshire, we threw away over 854 tonnes of cardboard in our black bins last year! That is the same weight as 400 rhinos! This cardboard could have easily been recycled in your green box!

Make sure your cardboard is broken down to be smaller than 45cm x 45cm, so it will fit in your box. Don’t forget to separate the cardboard from other packaging before you put it in your box.

If you have lots of large cardboard boxes, these can be taken to one of our recycling centres visit: www.westberks.gov.uk/villageeye to find your nearest centre.

working in partnership

31

eye

Film of the COME TO MORTIMER on Leisure

FUN DAY by Rob Barnes

The Avengers: Age of Ultron

MONTH twins who eventually come good. Robert Downey Jr. is once again the star of the show as Tony Stark, a role he was born to play - a narcissistic, egotistical genius who loves nothing more than antagonising teammates Captain America (Chris Evans) and Thor (Chris Hemsworth). So, perhaps it’s not surprising that the stand-out action sequence is reserved for Iron Man who dons his new Hulkbuster suit to take on his best mate Bruce Banner (Mark Ruffalo) whose alter ego has gone on the rampage. The real Hulk-whisperer of the piece though is Black Widow (Scarlett Johansson) whose smouldering romance with the Banner is not only convincing, it is also genuinely touching. Between the battles there are plenty of laughs, the standout moment comes when The Vision (Paul Bettany) nonchalantly picks up Thor’s Hammer, a weapon that ‘no mortal’ can wield to the stunned amazement of the team. It’s inevitable that with so many storylines to squeeze in it occasionally loses its way. Whilst the Avengers are off duty the pace does drag, particularly when Hawkeye (Jeremy Renner) takes the team to meet his wife and kids...a leap too far even for me to believe.

MORTIMER FAIRGROU

T

he marvel cinematic universe is expanding fast, re-booting its catalogue of superheroes for the silver screen at a frightening rate - but who’s complaining? Certainly not Disney whose second film in this juggernaut franchise is on course to become one of the biggest box office hits of all time. Does it have its flaws? Many. Is the plot confusing? Yes. Is it too long? Probably. But provided you can suspend your disbelief and just go with it, Avengers: Age of Ultron is a complete thrill ride! Director Joss Whedon, who picks up the reigns once again after the recordbreaking success of the first installment has a herculean task: Introduce four new characters to a swelling ensemble cast; interweave complex back stories and cross-world connections in preparation for the next chapter of the saga; stay

as faithful as possible to the comic books, and most importantly deliver a standalone film for the masses worthy of all the hype. Credit to him then that he not only achieves this, he also manages to give the film a heart and soul that sets it apart from the competition. The film opens in the throes of a jawdropping battle sequence as our merry band of crusaders capture Loki’s sceptre from evil warlords. In doing so they trigger a series of events that sees Tony Stark kick-start a dormant peacekeeping AI program that goes horribly wrong, unleashing Ultron, an all-powerful android with attitude intent on destroying humanity. The Avengers task is not helped by the mind-bending powers of Scarlet Witch and the lightning speed of Quicksilver (‘she’s weird, he’s quick’), the enemy

Book of the MONTH

Geek Girl

VISIT OUR B EACH!

Avengers: Age of Ultron is completely daft, baffling and at times cringeworthy but it gets away with it thanks to its’ heady mix of all-out action, romance, self deprecating humour and a personal touch that helps us believe the unbelievable.

"Worth a watch" 3/5

by Holly Smale

The book ‘Geek Girl’ is about a fifteen year old girl called Harriet Manners. Harriet is a geek, she’s not that liked at school and is not very popular. When she is on a school trip she accidentally gets an opportunity to become a model. However, becoming a model could lead to serious consequences, involving her best friend and her dad’s relationship. I really like this book because it’s different to anything else I’ve read recently. I’m glad I chose it because you learn a lot from the story; there are facts in it because the main character is really smart, it also makes you laugh a lot too! I would recommend this book mostly to girls because I think they will enjoy it more than boys (but boys could read it too!). I think this book is suitable for the ages of 9+.

age range 9+ 32

Olivia, Year 7 Willink School. Our main sponsors this year

ND

MarqueeS 1st BANDS

HAVING AN EVENT & NEED A MARQUEE? Did you know the 1st Burghfield & Sulhamstead Scouts offer a Marquee Hire service covering West Berkshire? With a range of marquees and party tents of varying sizes, these excellent marquees are available for your event throughout the year.

Prices, erected from £80 - £360 For information call John Hewitt

07860 262048 or e-mail burghfieldgsl@outlook.com with over 300 local children from over 250 local families in the 1st Burghfield & Sulhamstead Scout Group, the hire of our party tents & marquess helps us to pay for much needed equipment and supplies for our young people. Hire a quality marquee from us for your event and put something back into the community at the same time!

Jack worboys

Drives...

Goodwood Festival of Speed There are very few people who haven’t heard the name Goodwood, it is a legendary name in both horse racing and motorsport circles. The estate, just off the south coast of England, encompasses two motorsport venues, the circuit and the hillclimb. The hillclimb course, first used in 1936, is situated in the grounds around the house. The circuit was the outer track of a World War Two reserve airfield and was first used for racing in 1948. The estate hosted hundreds of races involving some of the worlds most accomplished drivers until 1966, when racing stopped as the owners were unwilling to adapt the circuit towards modern racing cars. The estate was taken over by Lord March in the early 1990’s and after deciding to bring motorsport back to the estate he set up the Festival of Speed. Originally planned for the circuit he had to switch to the hillclimb as he didn’t have the licence to use the circuit at that time. The event started with something in the region of 20,000 people for one day and has grown greatly since then and now brings crowds of 150,000 over a weekend. The main focus of the Festival of Speed is still the hillclimb. A wide variety of cars from all corners of motorsport drive up the hill, some competing for the quickest times and others just putting on a show for the public. This is one of the few places where you could see stock cars, world rally cars and F1 cars doing burnouts and doughnuts, production prototypes being demonstrated for the first time, classic Le Mans cars competing for the fastest times and world famous drivers parading historic machinery. On top of the hillclimb course there is a forest rally stage in the woods around the house. Here classic rally cars, in a myriad of forms, take centre stage. Every year a statue by Gerry Judah is commissioned for the lawn in front of the house. Each year a vehicle manufacturer is represented by the statue, often celebrating anniversaries of iconic models or brands. The Sunday Times Supercar Run plays host the worlds most exotic supercars on the course. There is a concourse show called Cartier Style et Luxe, similar to America’s Pebble Beach event, showcasing some of the most valuable and well maintained classic cars in the world. For those free on the Thursday and looking at buying a new car there is the moving motor show, an event where some manufacturers bring new cars to allow people to have a passenger ride. Finally, if that’s not already enough excitement there’s the occasional aeroplane flyby and stunt display. It is clear that this is a great weekend activity for anyone with petrol in their veins. At the time of print there should still be some tickets available and if you can get some I cannot recommend it highly enough; I will certainly be doing my best to get hold of some! www.ticketing.goodwood.com

Jack. 33

eye WIN!

Win Family Tickets to

Odds Farm Park!

5x Family Tickets!

Great News! Sheep Racing* is back at Odds Farm Park and we have 5 Entry Tickets for 2 Adults and 2 Children to give away! With a specially built mini race track with jumps and bends, eager sheep with miniature jockeys, Sheep Racing* is an event not to miss at Odds Farm Park! Guess the winning sheep and take home a Medal! Elsewhere at Odds Farm Park - expect more exciting activities - board Tractor and Trailer Rides*, race Go Karts, discover the Sand &

Water Play area and meet Furry Friends in the large Undercover Animal Barns. Combined with a jam-packed Animal Activity and Demonstration Programme and the Giant Indoor Playbarn, including a special Toddler and Under 5’s areas, there’s so much to do! Odds Farm Park is located just minutes from Junction 2 of the M40, near Beaconsfield. For more information, including special Summer events and prices visitors should call 01628 520188 or visit www.oddsfarm.co.uk

r e t n E o t w o H

ds Farm Go to the Od tab at www. Competition er .uk and answ villageeye.co : on questi the following sheep are Q. How many ove photo? ab racing in the

34

* (Until October, Weather Permitting) The closing date for entries is midnight on 30th June. Full terms and conditions at www.villageeye.co.uk

a: two b: four c: six

Our A Pre-schools are the place to be!

utdoors

g

re and motivate nt independent

our outdoor ethos we encourage children to learn ate, 53 acre site. Our nursery includes a large on site orking farm and a stream. All this, Of Jubilee Day Nursery: “The staff provide children with a wealth of opportunities to trained members ct setting for Forest develop their skills across all areas of learning, which effectively prepares them for

What Ofsted says:

their eventual move to school.”

we care for children and we make sureOf Jubilee Gems: “Staff promote literacy well, offering daily f age, have the autiful surroundings. opportunities for children to hear and explore a variety of sounds.”

t experience of the en in their buggies to ogresses to toddling he spring and jumping s, in the summer. “Jubilee has provided wonderful experiences coupled with great nough they are when the weatherfor both of my children. I have been delighted with Jubilee.” sit around the camp fire.

What our parents say:

care and nurturing

“We cannot speak highly enough of the staff and general experiences our son has part in. A perfect place for little people to start their own

e natural next step for Pre School children in their had the of taking fied Forest School leader, Emma,pleasure progresses the even further. Taking small groups of children and education.” plore and discoverjourney their naturalinto environment. She hem to learn self-risk assessment, develop selfate new tasks and complete new challenges. The free dren to choose which activity they want to participate ns with friends, using tools safely to whittle sticks sing the surrounding environment to create art.

What our children say:

“I love the woods and forest schools and being a Knight.” (Louis) “I love painting, writing and reading stories with Harriet.” (Flo) “I’m going to miss my friends and everything at Jubilee.” (Zack)

To find out more please contact us by: Phone: 01189 701 600, Email: info@jubileedaynursery.co.uk or by visiting our website: www.jubileedaynursery.co.uk

Paddock View, Rectory Road, Padworth Common, RG7 4JD

What we offer:

Full time placement at Jubilee Day Nursery or term time placement at Jubilee Gems with full time or part time sessions available at both nurseries. Outdoor learning with exciting opportunities to explore and learn about the natural world with daily walks to our woodlands and farm. A wide range of pre-reading and writing activities from sticks in the woods to giant paint brushes on the patio developing skills in readiness for school. Planting and growing fruit and vegetables in our sensory garden, eating healthy meals and snacks where children can self-select making independent choices promoting healthy eating and self-esteem. A caring and experienced team of child care practitioners, teachers and nursery nurses who support and extend children’s play, learning and development. Free entitlement for two, three and four year olds. Regular parent updates. Learning journals and transition reports when children leave for school.

Reception Teachers have said:

“Jubilee children come to school with confidence and are independent young learners.” “We can recognise Jubilee Children.”

If you would like your child to be part of the Jubilee experience or would like to become part of our growing team then please contact us today.

doors

nd motivate dependent

utdoor ethos we encourage children to learn 3 acre site. Our nursery includes a large on site

Call Lesley on 01189 701 600 info@jubileedaynursery.co.uk or visit our website www.jubileedaynursrey.co.uk

Call Sian on 01189 834 018 Email info@jubileegems.co.uk or visit our website www.jubileegems.co.uk

35

For some ideas of presents to get for your doting father, let’s consider a few options...First of all, remember the weather is getting warmer now, so rather than simply getting your dad a present that will gather dust, why not get a present that he can experience. This could be anything from a flying lesson, to an evening out at the theatre, to a weekend away with mum. You’ll find plenty of inspiration for experience days at Red Letter Days, intotheblue or Virgin. Sending your dad out for the day is a fantastic way for him enjoy Father’s Day. If your dad is more of a technological person, and if you tend to pay a lot of attention to the types of gadgets he is interested in, then you wouldn’t go far wrong to buy him a gadget that you know he would appreciate. If he loves his fragrances, then why not buy him a new bottle of his favourite? If you are especially in tune with the types of fragrances that your father likes, then why not go ahead and buy him a fragrance that you know he doesn’t currently own. Get this right and you will definitely leave a long lasting impression, every time he decides to wear this scent. Here are a few ideas of what you may buy to show appreciation to your special dad for Father’s Day this year!

Magazine subscriptions from £10 - Magazines make great gifts and can be enjoyed all year long. A fantastic saver for those times you don’t really know what present to purchase! Magazine’s make useful and wonderful presents to receive as gift subscriptions are also easily tailored to the receiver. Whether your ‘Pops’ is into chicken farming, golf, or cars - you name the interest and there’s bound to be a publication out there just for him. Subscriptions can be for just a few months to a whole years worth of reading about his favourite topic. We like: www.isubscribe.co.uk

Fathers Day

What we found June online 21st

How about a flying lesson! At intotheblue.co.uk lessons start at just £79 - and if you want to stay very local, then their Blackbushe offer at £122 is worth a peek. After a welcome and pre-flight briefing followed by a flight in either a Cessna 152, Piper Tomahawk or Piper Archer aircraft, once airborne he will get the chance to take control himself! They also offer a ‘With a spin’ experience which allows his instructor to demonstrate a tumbling spin and recovery at the end of the lesson. (But please, if he does go for this option - ask him to not do it over our villages, some of us are trying to work!) Once his lesson is over, he’ll receive a flight certificate too.

Has your pops has suddenly succumbed to this years’ facial follicle fad and grown a beard? Help him to keep it under control with this stubble and beard trimmer by Philips. With easy to select and lock in length settings from 0.5mm to 10mm, he’ll be able to precisely control his style, helping him to look more like Clooney and less like Catweasle. We found it at www.johnlewis.com £29.74

36

To contribute, advertise or let us know your news please call 0118 907 6200 or email info@villageeye.co.uk

Men’s Essentials Gift Set - £30. If you fancy a change form getting Dad a bottle of Old Spice , Brut or Hai Karate (Yes, you can still buy vintage bottles of the stuff online!), how about getting him something a little bit different. Instead of a straightforward bottle of aftershave, this Clinique for Men Essentials Kit includes a 50ml face scrub, a 50ml face wash, a 40ml moisturising lotion and a 15ml antiage eye cream for just £30 from www.clinique.co.uk.

Vehicle Air Conditioning Servicing from £29.99... ...How Refreshing

0118 933 2338

Your local MOT Testing Station

www.spratleys.co.uk

/spratleysautocare 60/62 Victoria Road | Mortimer | Reading | RG7 3SG *

Value service suitable for vehicles outside of their manufacturer’s warranty period, up to 2.2 litre, excluding 4x4 and LCVs; includes semi-synthetic oil and oil filter. Fuel filter and spark plugs at additional cost. Value service may not be suitable for all vehicles. Subject to availability. Conditions apply.

Professionally trained, experienced technicians and MOT testers Same day, on site MOTs* Free courtesy cars* www.spratleys.co.uk Free local collection and delivery* While you wait appointments Value Service and MOT from £149*

0118 933 2338

37

Quality tuition at affordable prices Fun and exciting dance classes from 2 - yrs to adults

Ballet, Tap, Modern, Street, Gymnastic Dance Singing, Drama, Street Dance

Musical Theatre Course from 5 yrs

Free trial lessons available To find out more, please contact Louise on 01189 868000

info@allstardance.co.uk www.allstardance.co.uk

Burghfield Bike Ride Sunday 14th June sees the return of the annual Burghfield Family Bike Ride. Open to all ages, this year’s theme is Superheros! Why not don your cape, join the crowd and take part with this fun, free and jolly event! The bike ride is free to join in with and is an all-ability 5-6 mile route through Burghfield, Sulhamstead and Mortimer (with an offroad section for the adventurous!). All you need to is turn up at Burghfield Common Recreation Ground at 10.30am to register, with the aim of setting off at 11am. What a great way to enjoy the weather and spend some family time. Superhero Fancy Dress is encouraged but not compulsory!

Classes in: Burghfield | Theale | Mortimer | Silchester | Thatcham | Tadley | Lower Earley

Mortimer St. Mary's Summer Fair

Mortimer St. John’s CE Infant School “Growing and Learning together" Would you like your child to attend a warm, welcoming school where nurturing and learning are key to educating your child?

If you love a summer fair then get along to Mortimer St Mary’s Junior School on Saturday 13th June. You’ll find a whole range of games, stalls and activities to enjoy on the playing field. There will, of course, be a range of refreshments on offer and lots of prizes to be won! All proceeds go to Mortimer St Mary’s PTA to fund additional activities for the children and improve the school facilities.

A school set in the heart of the village A well-resourced, bright learning environment Creative, fun curriculum An education based on Christian principles

This years' line up includes local bands: The Hazards, Johnny Marvel's Blues Groove & Caddy Cooper

Specialist sports and music coaching Warm, caring staff We foster a love of learning Visit us anytime.

Storytelling sessions for younger children Drum kit lessons Drum repairs and servicing Selection of professionally serviced, pre-loved drum kits available with free hand delivery, set-up and tuning.

Please contact the Headteacher: Nicola Sumner take a look around. Please contact the headteacher.: 0118 933 2242 Nicola Sumner

For further information please call

Our Learning Community is built on love, hope, trust and friendship which develops the spark of God in everyone.

www.daves-drums.co.uk email: davesdrums1234@yahoo.co.uk

0118 933 2242

38

• • • •

Daves Drums

07787 154 317

p U l l o R p Roll u Y L U J h t 2 1 Y SUNDA

g to rcus is comin u that the ci oneyo l ll ia te ec to sp d ry excite d for a ve o o W cus rs ir We are very ce C en Happy’s tting up in Sp ssociation! A e l o nc o a town and se ch rm S fo ur per Lambs Lane animals) 2 ho ch is fun for o (n off event for n a m hu , whi nal, all al. The show bats, is a professio atures Acro minute interv fe 0 3 nd a a g ns in w lo ing C includ nc le la el a B Sword rs The Rand - Rolla and en lla se all ages, sta o R ve s e’ ct W a eciality uch more! m h, h! uc m ug Aerialists, sp o and d it en f magic, fun n‘t recommen ca nd a plus loads o es couple of tim their show a st £9 per Tickets are ju ! ry ia s d ur in yo e show start ay 12th July f 4 tickets. Th available. o ck a So put Sund p ily are 34 for a fam Refreshments person or £ en at 1pm. p o s te a g at 2pm and .uk kingham.sch mbslane.wo .la w w w : te l websi s Lane schoo co.uk om the Lamb es@hotmail. fr vi a rm fo _d ie er rr rd ca o il n a a et em d or u can g encers Woo ur tickets, yo s Church, Sp el To order yo ha ic M t. S ive at visit Caf’Act

Fancy a Family Picnic"

A date for your diary – 5 July at 4pm, the day after the Mortimer Fun Day!. Spring is here and South Berks Concert Band is busily rehearsing a varied programme of music for your entertainment in Mortimer. Thanks to the help of Mortimer Village Partnership, a marquee has been made available on the Fairground big enough for their 45 musicians, children from Mortimer St John's CE Infant School and an audience! Why not relax with a picnic as they perform several great pieces including “Dartmoor” from the musical "War Horse", a musical selection from the film "Robin Hood, Prince of Thieves", music from "Les Miserables", a selection of well-known songs from the American Civil War and the chance to join in with the rousing finale of the "1812 Overture". Best of all, children under 16 go free when alongside a paying adult! Tickets are just £5, so why not book them now. Email southberksconcertband@yahoo.com or call 07775 988798

Giddy Up Ufton Nervet Race nights are always great fun, and when a Fish & Chip supper is served up with it for just £7.50 it becomes an even more attractive night out! Best of all, the proceeds go to SUN school. The race night takes place on Saturday 13th June at Sulhamstead & Ufton Nervet Primary school with the fun starting at 7pm. You can buy your tickets in advance from the SUN School Office on 0118 983 2223 or 07867 503316 - Giddy up!

free home delivery

on orders over £20 within 5 mile radius

Sunday Buffet 1-10pm Adults £8.95 Children £6.95 The Hatchgate INN, Burghfield

Burghfield Spices fine indian cuisine

0118 983 4040 www.burghfieldspices.com

To contribute, advertise or let us know your news please call 0118 907 6200 or email info@villageeye.co.uk

facebook.com/villageeyemagazine

39

eye

Sport & Leisure

Above

in Tadley

A

s the sun comes out, Bishopswood Golf Course really comes into its own. You would be forgiven for thinking that the joys of Bishopswood are reserved for its members, but on that, you would be mistaken. Bishopswood’s doors are open to everyone. Non-members are very welcome on the golf course as well as in the bar and restaurant. If golf has been your game in the past, why not dust off those irons and go along to enjoy some golf in the sunshine? You can enjoy the course on a pay and play basis. In fact, on Mondays and Thursdays, Bishopswood offers a very affordable 9-holes at just £9.95 before 4pm. The Balcony Bar is a joy in the summer months. As the name suggests, it has its own balcony overlooking the beautiful water feature as well as giving stunning views over the first and ninth holes of the golf course. It’s a perfect place to sit out and enjoy a drink and a meal on warmer days - almost like being on holiday!

The Sands Restaurant shares the same view and offers a first class dining experience. Neil, the award-winning chef has over 30 years’ experience and was Executive Head Chef at Bramshill Police College, where he catered for Members of Government, overseas dignitaries and Members of the Royal Family. All are welcome in the restaurant, so why not treat yourself? Bishopswood will soon be hosting an AM AM Charity Golf Day. Friday 3rd July will see a golf competition during the day - more details to follow for golfers on the website! In the evening there will be live music and a BBQ to enjoy. Tickets are on sale for the ‘evening only’ for non-golfers to come along and enjoy the event too. The fundraiser will raise money for this year’s Captain’s Charities which are Prostate Cancer UK and Tadley First Responders. If you are able to support the event, you can order your tickets by calling 01189 408600.

There are a range of memberships available. If it’s golf that you’re interest in, the Associate membership offers 7 day access for only £375.00; there is the option for a 5 or 7 day membership offering unlimited golf. In addition, there are family, intermediate and junior rates as well. Alternatively, join Bishopswood purely for the social side of things. You can enjoy the food, drink and a range of events all at a discounted rate. So why not get down to Bishopswood Golf Course and check it out for yourself? You’ll be assured of a warm welcome and an experience ‘well above par’ whether you are there for golf, drinks or dinner. Enjoy!

Telephone: 01189 408600 Email:info@bishopswoodgc.co.uk www.bishopswoodgc.co.uk Bishopswood Lane |Tadley |RG26 4AT

Everyone is talking about CrossFit. Come and discover it for yourself & see why!

For more information visit www.crossfitaldermaston.com or contact Alex on 07554 424630 email info@crossfitaldermaston.com

40

The Village Eye is a privately owned magazine and bought to you by Pinktomato Limited, a local 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, URL’s and telephone numbers are understood to be correct at the time of submission to print. To feature your business in this publication please call 0118 907 6200

AT WILLINK LEISURE CENTRE

For further information, please call

0118 983 4845

Willink Leisure Centre | School Lane | Burghfield Common | Berkshire | RG7 3XP

41

Thinking of moving this summer? At Parkers, we handle your every move with care.

Burghfield Common 0118 983 3897 Tadley 0118 981 0494 Theale 0118 930 3133 www.parkersproperties.co.uk

42

Burghfield Common Mortimer Burghfield Village Aldermaston Wharf Beenham Pamber Heath Spencers Wood Beech Hill Aldermaston Theale Bradfield Stanford Dingley Baughurst Padworth Silchester Tutts Clump Tidmarsh Bradfield Southend Englefield Tadley Midgham Woolhampton Sulhamstead Ufton Nervet Brimpton And surrounding areas