The Award Winning Buzz Magazine - Thatcham Issue 28

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contents

11fashion 37 garden view

Welcome

4

Community

6

Duran Duran

7

Business Focus

9

Buzz Offers

13

Crufts

16

BuzzConnect

22

What’s On

24

Food & Drink

26

Health, Beauty & Wellbeing

28

Property

35

The Fitbit

36

Competitions

39

Books, Cinema, Theatre

Editor-in-Chief Jackie Osborne To the Editor: editor@localbuzzmagazine.com Food Editor Paul Milverton Website Editor Jenny Summerill Community Editor Waheeda Soomro and Gemma McCrae editor@localbuzzmagazine.com Designer Vanessa Davis studio@localbuzzmagazine.com

Let the Spring issue of Buzz Magazine bring you a wealth of information!

W

e couldn’t be more excited about this issue as there is so much to share with you.

Please take some time to get to know the new property feature, where we have lots of amazing local companies sharing their information and products including; fantastic savings when building or buying timber frames homes and buildings from Vision Developments and where you can buy all your aggregates from Kwiksand.

Jackie Osborne

service that is absolutely free. Employers; why not use our online services for as little as £10pw. See more information on page 24. This is the quickest and most cost effective way to help you find the right candidate online and via social media.

We appreciate your support and are so happy to have you as a reader of Buzz Magazine. Now, relax and read your Buzz magazine in your own time, taking in the local articles and information to help you plan your activities for the forthcoming weeks.

You will find in Buzz a collection of inspired and instructive articles written by real, honest, downto-earth local people and businesses. In this issue, we are honoured to support the LibraryFest, which hosts a range of exciting family-friendly activities in all of our libraries. Please check our What’s On to see an incredible number of creative activities for the whole family.

There will be exciting news coming up, so make sure you stay in touch via our social media – like us on Facebook / buzz.newbury and follow us on Twitter @LocalBuzzMags.

With warmest thanks, Editor-in-Chief jackie@localbuzzmagazine.com

If you are looking for a new job we have a new online

Creative Media Damon Brown Copywriter Carlie Cohen

Contributors Kathy Jones

To promote your event: events@localbuzzmagazine.com Contact: PO Box 6248, Thatcham Berkshire RG19 9HW Your complimentary copy or where sold £2. Thank you for the continued encouragement from our advertisers, supporters and the local community.

for a daily dose of buzz

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Y T I N U M COM

Do you have any news that you would like to share? We’d love to hear from you. . . editor@localbuzzmagazine.com

YOUR Community. YOUR voice.

Action Teams

st

By David Conque

www.thatchamvision.net

I’m very pleased to say that the year has got off to a great start with some of our new Action Teams up and running already, with the rest to follow very soon.

Chamber update Contemplating Apprenticeships Today there is considerable Government support available for school leavers (and beyond) who maybe considering alternatives to University and other options.

Employment opportunities are now offered within structured Apprenticeships, which in tandem with approved courses allow Apprentices to learn practical skills in a less pressurised environment. Not only do they “earn while they learn” it can help grow their confidence and if the employer is impressed it may end up with a permanent position with in that organisation.

The Head of Kennet School says he also recognises the benefits of Apprenticeships for some students ;so if you wish for more information please contact me on the email below. . .

Thatcham Chamber of Commerce c/o WestBerks Properties Ltd 56B The Broadway Thatcham RG19 3HP 01635871087 . 07768 233004

Jeremy Cottam Chairman of Thatcham Chamber of Commerce & Director of WestBerks Properties Ltd 4

T

hey’re made up of local volunteers who are passionate about their town and want to make it a better place to live. They’re working on ideas to improve local transport, sports/leisure facilities, senior citizens’ services, childcare, safety and infrastructure.

do something meaningful that benefits everybody.

We’re happy to accept whatever limited time you can offer and with our extremely broad range I’m sure we can find something you’ll enjoy.

I’d also like to thank West Berkshire Council for all the great feedback we’ve had from the Council Officers, who have kindly provided pages and pages of extra information to help our teams in their tasks.

MY CANCER MY CHOICES

There are still spaces on the teams for anyone who feels they want to do some volunteering and get involved with the future of the town. People volunteer for all sorts of reasons: some because they want to keep busy, some want it on their CV or to keep their skills sharp and some because they simply want to

My Cancer My Choices is a volunteer led service that is offering complimentary treatments in a peaceful, calm and confidential environment. Treatments include: acupuncture, reflexology, massage, relaxation techniques, tai chi and mindfulness courses. They plan to offer yoga in the future.

Thatcham Vision is calling for more volunteers to help with community projects. For more information www.thatchamvision.net and residents are encouraged to follow them on Facebook and Twitter.

thatchamvision

Thatcham Vision

Providing complementary therapies to cancer patients in Berkshire

The therapists give their time for free in the hope that after 2 complimentary sessions, those that are able, will make a donation for future treatments.

Treatments are available at Royal Berkshire Hospital Cancer Centre, Reading and Bracknell Healthspace, Brants Bridge, Bracknell.

For more information on this service please visit mycancermychoices.org or contact support@Mycancermychoices.org 01344 662906

Museums & visitor centres

budget

5

Walks, ball games, parks, common, canal, woods, country parks

Generally FREE.

Cinema

FREE

Weekend am offers. £1.99 for each person (adult and child).

Library

things I didn’t know before I read Buzz magazine

Books, computers and toddler activities. FREE or minimal cost.

Local Authority leisure centres Various family activities.

Under £10 per family.

Home Garden, board games, cooking, arts and crafts. FREE or minimal cost.

Toddler Groups Groups are held in various church and local communities’ halls, minimal cost.

Soft play Dress up, padded play, giant play frame etc. £10- £15.

Volunteer work Please contact your local Volunteer Bureau for more information (i.e scouts, elderly, dogs, cats and much more) FREE.

LOCAL FAMILY

1

Bishopswood Golf Club is open to nonmembers.

2

Lis Allen has a new event for men only called “Talking Bollocks”.

3

You can now add your job offer via Buzz online for only £10.

4

Henwick Properties provides a free market appraisal of your property.

5

The fantastic Roockwood Garden and Gift Fair will be held on 21st April and proceedings will support.

BOREDOm busters

Looking for something to do . . . ?

SPREE Outdoor adventure parks / sports activity centre Family tickets from £20.

Petting farms Family ticket approx £35.

Pottery cafes Price per piece of pottery.

Fruit picking April onwards. Pay for fruit only.

Ice Skating £25 family ticket.

Bowling - £22 family ticket.

lindsey’s top tip

Laser quest / Airsoft (indoor combat)

Are you clued up about Cyber Crime?

From £6.50 pp for laser & £35 airsoft.

Go Karting From £35 each.

Cyber crime and fraud is a fast-growing area of crime. To find out more about the issues and ways to protect yourself visit www.getsafeonline.org If you think you have been a victim of fraud: Report it to Action Fraud on 0300 123 20 40 or visit www.actionfraud.police.uk

Deputy Supt Lindsey Finch Local Policing Commander West Berkshire

Gym membership Many gyms will host family and kids clubs for free or approx £5 per child.

Canal boat trips £37 family ticket

Stately home Home, grounds, café and kids activities. Prices vary depending on package.

don’t miss the next Issue. . .

TO SHARE YOUR COMMUNITY NEWS CONTACT EDITOR@LOCALBUZZMAGAZINE.COM

in the stands 1st may

Go to localbuzzmagazine.com for more updates on your local area 5

© Stephanie Pistel

John Taylor with band members (l to r) Roger Taylor, Nick Rhodes and Simon Le Bon

Duran Duran returned to the music scene in 2015,with the single ‘Pressure Off’ and the album ‘Paper Gods’.

The Evening Breeze’s Lucy Ambache caught up with bassist John Taylor.

I hear you’re a fan of The Breeze?

I have found myself listening a lot and you guys are almost always playing something I like listening to. Well this interview is going to go very well! (laughs) We have been loving playing ‘Pressure Off’. I watched the behind the scenes video and it’s great to see the musical brilliance of Duran Duran, Mark Ronson and Nile Rodgers working together. It really is quite something!

Yeah. We worked a lot with Nile in the eighties and it wasn’t until working with him on this song that we really appreciated what he brings to the room – and as a bass player, you just don’t get to play with musicians like him that often. I pulled up my chair very close to him and spent three days just trying to keep up with him and played some of the best bass on the album. He’s just a very inspiring guy to be around. And Mark’s a very different kind of guy – he’s like watching all the time. It was a great experience and nice to have something on the album that married the old eighties sounding Duran with the contemporary Duran.

john taylor from Duran Duran talks collaborations, mature touring and Glastonbury of featured artists we’ve got on it and if you don’t know the (Paper Gods) album, we’ve got quite a lot of singers and guitar players appearing on the album, and they’ve given a real flavour to it.

And that’s not usual for you?

Not at all. We like to think of ourselves as a closed shop – that’s what bands do - “we’re a gang, we’re all inclusive”. You look at the culture and what’s going on in music over the last few years and it’s all about features. You’ve got EDM and hip hop and they’re all about features.

By the end of this album, we’d have anybody on it! Anybody. Come! Come!

Play on our record!

It’s sort of been updated into 2015 on the album.

So you’re taking this album out on the road. Are you still up for this? Are you ready to tour?

That’s the job. You can’t just throw the baby out. You’ve got to hold onto the classic aspects but you’ve got to let in enough new energy so it sounds fresh and interesting. Otherwise you’ll just be preaching to the converted. With every album you do, you’ve got the opportunity to open things out a little bit. What ended up defining this album was the amount

After spending two years in the studio, we’re like “get us on tour!”. You’ve got these two different experiences that make up doing what we do. There’s the introspective studio work where it’s like a ‘man cave’ and the touring balances it out. I wouldn’t want to only be a touring musician but I wouldn’t just want to be a studio musician either.

Is it going to be a bit more different for you guys? A bit more civilised?

We’re very civilised! I know what you’re getting at though. You just don’t have the energy to party like you used to. Now the energy just goes into making the show as great as it can be. We’re very relaxed professionals and when you’re married and you’ve got families, it’s not like it was when you were in your twenties. But I would hope so too! I wouldn’t want to be me now doing what I was doing then – it would be pretty sad.

We’ll see you at Glastonbury 2016, right?

It’s got to be, right? On the main stage!

That would be good wouldn’t it?

Why has this not happened?

I don’t know. I’ve never had the opportunity to do the ‘hard sell’ but I’m sure one day we’ll get there. I’d better get down there and do the shmooze!

Hear more celebrity interviews with Lucy Ambache on The Evening Breeze, Sunday to Thursday 7-10pm. Find out more at www.thebreeze.com.

Appraisals and the common pitfalls

1. The definition of an appraisal is the act of assessing someone and that’s enough to put anyone off! So give the appraisal a new name, one that is more up to date and relevant to what you want to achieve.

2. Talk about performance regularly not just once a year at the appraisal.

3. Let your employees identify their own strengths and weaknesses - most know where they need to improve. Treat them like adults and you’ll find they have other ideas and insights to offer too.

A

ppraisals are just one of the tools available to help employees and organisations explore and improve the way they work. A good appraisal meets the needs and interests of both parties and done well can be a valuable business tool.

4. Show your people they, and their appraisal is important to you.

Stop changing the date of the

If you want appraisals to make a difference to your bottom line then make sure you avoid these common traps. . .

BUSINESS FOCUS

I could count on one hand the number of people with good things to say about appraisals. Managers often tell me they only do them because they have to and employees don’t see the point because they don’t change anything.

meeting; talk about the important stuff and face up to those difficult subjects.

If you’d like more ideas or advice on appraisals please get in touch.

Or if you would like to meet with other local employers for support, advice or as a sounding board on HR, employment or people related issues ask me about the HR Network. This group is run by People Essentials and Gardner Leader and there is no charge to attend.

01635 728 728 . info@peopleessentials.co.uk www.peopleessentials.co.uk . For more tips and information on Human Resources, visit Michelle’s page at localbuzzmagazine.com - Ask the Expert.

By Michelle Bailey

MEDIA

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A multi tribute show with Steve Pert. Steve will perform favourite songs from Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jnr, Bobby Darin, Tony Bennett through to the more contemporary sounds of Michael Buble and Robbie Williams. A disco will finish the evening.

For more information call 0118 940 8600

Bishopswood Golf Course | Bishopswood Lane | Tadley | Hampshire | RG26 4AT 0118 940 8600 | info@bishopswoodgc.co.uk | www.bishopswoodgc.co.uk

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Free Birds Montessori School Open day at 2pM Saturday 19th March

“Montessori is an education for independence, preparing not just for school, but for life.”

Maria Montessori

Free Birds Montessori School is a brand new setting that follows the AMI Montessori Educational System for children aged two and half to five years. The Montessori Prepared Environment is one that has been tailored to support the young child and community.

Please call or email us to arrange a visit.

The Burdwood Community Centre, Wheelers Green Way, Thatcham RG19 4YA

T: 07464 106147 freebirdsmontessori@gmail.com www.freebirdsmontessori.co.uk free.birds.montessori.school

The prepared environment provides the freedom for children to self-construct so they may function as part of a society where both adults and children collaborate together to create a peaceful world.

The setting has a spacious hall with purposely-organised areas for the following Montessori activities: Practical Life, Sensorial, Language, Maths, and Culture.

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Rookwood Garden and Gift Fair

The Radiotherary Appeal Tracy’s Journey Charity No: 1050892

Thursday 21st April 2016 10.00am - 4.00pm Entry fee to the fair £5

Constance Craig Smith, Gardening writer for the Daily Mail Weekend Magazine will open the Plant Fair during The Champagne Breakfast to celebrate HRH Majesty The Queen’s 90th Birthday 9.00 – 10.00 tickets £15pp inc entry to Plant Fair available from charlotte@rookwoodhouse.co.uk Polly Wood will be giving the following lecture:

•

12 specialist nurseries

•

over 50 selected garden and gift stalls

•

Polly Wood lecture

•

exciting online auction

•

home-made lunches and teas

•

all in a beautiful spring garden

LECTURE FEES £10

10:30 AM

Starting a Kitchen Garden Jane Lawrence will be giving a floral demonstration: 2:30 PM

Arranging Flowers with maximum impact

Brighter Futures – Tracy’s Journey, is raising funds to equip a Radiotherapy Department for Swindon Hospital.

We would like to thank our main sponsors below and many other local companies and volunteers who have helped make this a real community effort.

www.rookwoodgardenfair.co.uk - 01488 608676 or 07770 435621 Rookwood Farmhouse, Stockcross, Newbury, Berks RG20 8JX

The first of the ‘Crufts’ Dog events took place in 1891 at the Royal Agricultural Hall in Islington. It was the brainchild of Charles Cruft, hence the name.

Crufts The world’s largest dog show

A

fter college, Charles worked for the well known dog food company Spratts, initially as an office boy and later as a travelling salesman across Europe. In 1878 he was asked by French dog-breeders to promote the canine section of the Paris Exhibition. Back in England, he managed the Allied Terrier Club Show at the Royal Aquarium, Westminster in 1886. He launched Crufts five years later. When Charles died in 1938, his wife Emma took over the running of the Show. She handed the mantle to the Kennel Club in 1948.

The first event had 2,437 entries representing 36 breeds. This year’s show will see over 22,000 dogs competing from around 43 countries. The event is truly international since quarantine laws were lifted in the year 2000.

The ultimate accolade, Best in Show has been contested for 87 years, and won by 43 different breeds. The most frequent

champion breed with seven wins is the cocker spaniel, followed by the Irish Setter and Welsh Terrier which have each taken four titles. The first ever winner was a greyhound and the 2015 winner was a five-year-old Russian Scottish Terrier called Knopa.

Winners receive a replica silver trophy and a small cash prize, but it is the prestige and future stud-money that are the real attraction.

In addition to the Best in Show and Best in Breed awards, there are now many other competitions including Scruffs for crossbreeds.

Over the last decade £138,000 has been raised from dog exhibitors for the Kennel Club’s charitable trust which distributes money to dog rehoming, assistance dog charities, and funds research into the understanding and prevention of dog diseases. Huge efforts are now made to ensure all dogs in the Show are healthy following previous concerns about welfare.

Crufts is a great day out, and for dog-lovers it’s not to be missed!

Dog Facts l A two year old child and pup

Visitors can also enjoy the spectacle of activities such as fast-paced flyball, skillful agility and heelwork to music. In many of the competitions there are junior as well as adult classes. Attendees also look forward to seeing famous names such as celebrity vets and TV personalities known for their love of dogs. There is a wealth of shopping opportunities with over 400 exhibition stands.

And for those thinking of purchasing a dog the Discover Dogs section features examples, advice and information from owners of around 200 breeds.

get along so well because they both roughly understand 250 words and gestures. l If you think your dog knows

when it’s time for dinner or a walk, you’re right! Dogs pick up on our routines and habits, and they also sense how much time has passed. l Depending on the breed, your

dog has between 125 million to 300 million scent glands — compared to only 5 million for humans.

Crufts, the world’s largest dog show takes place between

10 and 13 March at the NEC Birmingham

13

Showing the breadth of her talent, Clare has sung with Sir Van Morrison and opened twice for Liza Minnelli at Kenwood House and the Royal Festival Hall.

14

I’m looking forward to coming to Newbury again as last time it was a great laugh and there was a fantastic bond between the audience and the band.

Clare Teal Many will know Clare Teal’s distinctive soulful voice. The award-winning performer is one of the UK’s most celebrated and much-loved jazz singers and presents her own show on BBC Radio 2.

C

lare speaks to Buzz Magazine about her forthcoming performance which will form one of the highlights of the Newbury Spring Festival programme in May. She said: “I’m looking forward to coming to Newbury again as last time it was a great laugh and there was a fantastic bond between the audience and the band. There’s always a feeling of excitement and a celebratory air all around at festivals and if you can tap into that, your job’s already done.”

The set-list will include songs from the The Great American and British Songbooks plus covers of her musical heroes, Ella Fitzgerald, Doris Day and Peggy Lee. The audience can also expect some original material, some contemporary covers such as her celebrated version of Snow Patrol’s Chasing Cars interspersed with her trademark witty anecdotes and conversation.

“We always try to get a mix of the songs from the 1930s and 40s that I love while also delving into some of the hidden gems from the 50s. Alongside that you’ve got more contemporary covers and original material, with the same palate of colours and chords given the same treatment”.

Clare famously fell into singing when she found herself without her clarinet for an exam and achieved her highest-ever grades.

She hasn’t looked back since and has so far recorded 14 albums with her 15th to be released in April. The album will be released on Clare’s own MUD record label and is a collaboration with the famed 100-piece Halle Orchestra.

After signing to independent label Candid in 2001 and releasing three acclaimed titles, it was Clare’s first album for Sony Jazz which became her breakthrough record and the largest-ever contract signed with a jazz singer.

‘Don’t Talk’ surpassed the Jazz

charts, reaching the top 20 in 2004, winning many plaudits and several awards.

Showing the breadth of her talent, Clare has sung with Sir Van Morrison and opened twice for Liza Minnelli at Kenwood House and the Royal Festival Hall. She has also performed with the BBC Big Band at Proms in the Park, headlined the Bourbon Street Tent at Glastonbury Festival and appeared regularly at the world-renowned Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club.

BUZZCONNECT

Since 2008 Lis has been working as a personal development coach and keynote speaker. She tells us how membership of BuzzConnect is helping support her exciting plans for growing her business.

Lis is a keynote speaker,

My one-to-one meetings with BuzzConnect Ambassador Graham Hill from Verbatim and Janet Duffield from West Berkshire Council have provided extensive and invaluable advice.

Priceless!

I have attended two excellent Leadership workshops run

by BuzzConnect Ambassador Michelle Bailey from People Essentials where I not only learnt new things but was also able to exchange ideas and experience with senior managers from other businesses.

Surrounded by other ambitious businesses at BuzzConnect networking meetings always leaves me inspired and raring to go!

16

she runs presentation skills workshops and provides one to one coaching for individuals. She has also created a women-only event which looks at the mothering role and how, as women, we are influenced by our mothers.

You work alone – How do you keep motivated?

I have a very strong and far-reaching vision for my business, so the motivation is always there, It's more a question of how do I keep focussed!

How have you built your customer base?

By getting out there and meeting people in person.

I'm not 'selling a product', I'm sharing concepts and ideas and that takes time to explain to others.

3. Keep learning from others who know more, and ASK FOR HELP! 4. One more? I love what I do!

What is your favourite quote?

"Be the change you want to see in the world" ~ Gandhi As a local business, what are your plans/priorities for the future?

potential to roll this out as well, if there's a need or interest in it. Time will tell!

What help do you think you need to achieve them?

I'd like to attract a team of experienced business people around me - people who can guide/help me put a more structured financial plan, controls and systems in place. The model is perfectly formed - it just needs to grow. I could do with another me at this point, though!

What would you say are the top three things most important to your success?

Having trade-marked the brand, my longer-term plan for the Vagina Dialogues is to franchise the event so that other experienced women can facilitate the discussion, not just me. I've been told that what I'm doing is so simple, it's profound, so I feel that the more women who can have access to a safe environment where they can explore their thinking and share their views without judgement, the better.

Franchising would greatly speed this up, both in this country and further afield.

1. Believing whole-heartedly in what I'm doing (why would anyone else if I didn't?)

I'm launching a men-only pilot version in Hungerford in June called Talking Bollocks! There's

2. Keeping myself mentally and physically fit and healthy

For a fuller explanation please go to lisallen.com/vagina-dialogues

How do you go about marketing your business?

Until the brand is more widely known, I think I'm the person best-equipped to market my business, so speaking at events and personal networking are the main focus for me.

How has/will BuzzConnect help you achieve your plans?

The Buzz Team of Ambassadors have a wealth of business experience between them which they are sharing, plus I've been introduced to a couple of key people who can help me grow my business. Oh, and informal networking - the fun opportunity to meet and be supported by yet more inspiring business people in our local community. Brilliant!

B UZZ C ONNECT S PONSORS

BuzzConnect brings local businesses together to support and learn from each other.

Being part of this integrated business community will improve your business performance and also boost the local economy and make West Berkshire and North Hampshire a better place to work and live.

BuzzConnect serves the whole business community so whether you are a large company, SMB or Start-Up in the private, public or voluntary sector, we have a membership package to suit your needs.

Membership fees start at just ÂŁ20 per month and benefits include

1. Raise your profile 2. Build local network of suppliers and customers 3. Collaborate with other local businesses

l Monthly business networking

4. Develop business and leadership skills by attending BuzzConnect workshops and events.

l Free training and development provided

by local experts on topics ranging from recruitment, finance, marketing and leadership development.

5. Be part of a community that represents you.

l Regular opportunity to have your say on local

plans for business and education.

Here are top 5 benefits for joining BuzzConnect:

BuzzConnect provides a framework and an array of workshops purposely developed to enhance your business performance.

For more information, please call 01635 200006 or email info@buzz-connect.co.uk Join BuzzConnect on these forthcoming events:

WORKSHOPS DATES BUZZCONNECT MONTHLY

WORKSHOP DATES

MARCH

DROP-IN CLINIC FOR ADVICE ON EMPLOYMENT MATTERS Fri 4th Mar 9:00 - 12:00 West Berkshire Council Newbury RG14 5LD People Essentials

NETWORKING EVENT Thu 17th Mar 17:30 - 19:00 Donnington Grove Country Club, Newbury RG14 2LA BuzzConnect

EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE Mon 7th Mar 9:00 - 12:00 Council Offices Committee Room, 1 Market Street, Newbury RG14 5LD Loving Monday

EMPLOYMENT CONTRACT TERMS, DISPUTES AND RESTRIVTIVE COVENANTS Wed 23rd Mar 8:30 - 10:00 Venue TBC Charles Lucas & Marshall

ARE YOU A BUSINESS OWNER WHO WANTS MORE, BETTER OR DIFFERENT? Wed 16th Mar 19:00 - 10:00 Audley Inglewood Hungerford RG17 9AA Bigger Brighter Bolder

APRIL

www.buzz-connect.co.uk

DROP-IN CLINIC FOR ADVICE ON EMPLOYMENT MATTERS Fri 1st Apr 9:00 - 12:00 Venue TBC People Essentials

UKBuzzConnect

GETTING LEADERSHIP TO WORK ORGANISATION INTEGRITY Wed 13th Apr 8:30 - 10:30 Newbury College Newbury RG14 7TD People Essentials BUZZCONNECT MONTHLY NETWORKING EVENT Thu 21st Apr 17:30 - 19:00 Donnington Grove Country Club, Newbury RG14 2LA BuzzConnect PENSIONS AND THE NEW AUTO ENROLMENT REQUIREMENTS Tue 26th Apr 10:00 - 11:00 Ross Brooke Ltd Newbury RG14 1QL Ross Brooke Ltd

UKBuzzConnect

berkshirebusinesshub.co.uk

westberks.gov.uk

B UZZ C ONNECT A MBASSADORS

localbuzzmagazine.com

peopleessentials.co.uk

biggerbrighterbolder.co.uk

dudleighfilms.com

rosemarybooks.co.uk/newbury

verbatim-cc.co.uk

ross-brooke.co.uk

loving-monday.com

clmlaw.co.uk

metrobankonline.co.uk

donnington-grove.com

BUZZCONNECT

It’s funny, you would never dream of asking your partner to do your dental work or fix your electrics if they hadn’t been trained first so why would you ask someone who hasn’t been trained to do your books?

WWW.ROSEMARYBOOKS.CO.UK/NEWBURY

What is the difference between a bookkeeper and an accountant?

A

t Rosemary Bookkeeping, we are surprised how often people do. But we’re never surprised that people get themselves in a pickle, especially with VAT. There’s a common misconception that accountants audit a company’s accounts at the end of the year – well it’s true that accountants do audit accounts but you have to have a turnover of over £6.5m and assets worth more than £3.26m so for the majority of business owners this will never become necessary. . . . you need to find someone who has clients already, is accustomed to dealing with VAT and hasn’t reached capacity.

18

Don’t get me wrong, I’m a real fan of accountants – they

do a fantastic job when you need help with strategy, tax planning and doing the year end compliance work - sending accounts to Companies House and HMRC. But all accountants will admit that they are under severe time pressures to do your work at the end of the year so they just don’t have the time to go through your paperwork in fine detail.

Of course accountants can review the books, but will they will be more expensive than a bookkeeper. So what should you look for in a bookkeeper? Well you need to find someone who has clients already, is accustomed to dealing with VAT and

hasn’t reached capacity. Some bookkeepers will charge by the hour but watch out for this – someone who isn’t charging a sensible amount will take longer to do the job, you’ll be paying for them to make mistakes and correct them and won’t necessarily have the skills to do a proper job. It can end up being a false economy – much better to pay more for each hour but even better to find someone whose charges are proportional to the work they do.

Look for a bookkeeper who doesn’t give you tax advice or offers to prepare your cash flow – however well meaning, many bookkeepers just don’t have the skills for this. They are great at VAT, helping you understand which parts of your business are the most profitable, helping you understand who you owe money to and who owes you money. Next time I’ll be explaining what you should expect your bookkeeper to provide – if your accountant isn’t examining your books, make sure you are getting the best from your bookkeeper.

BUZZCONNECT

Engaging your employees makes a difference to your organisation because it affects everything you do and everything you’re trying to do.

WWW.LOVING-MONDAY.COM

The engagement of your employees matters M

any businesses are currently feeling the pinch and experiencing significant challenges.

Margins are being squeezed, customers are harder to find and even harder to keep, and employment costs are rising along with a skills shortage in the region.

We’re not going to tell you that engaging your employees is going to make all this go away, but it can and does make a difference.

Let’s look at an example through the eyes of one of

our clients. This business is a housing association providing housing and care solutions across the south of England. We worked with them to increase their employee engagement and it moved from 58% to 82%.

So what you say it’s just a number, well actually it’s not just a number, think of it as more of an indicator.

As well as this indicator moving in the right direction, so did a number of others. Its absence statistics went down, its employee turnover figure went down, and its customer

satisfaction, loyalty and recommendations numbers all went up.

. . . while many businesses may need to spend less money and achieve more they may already have the answer.

The people they already employ.

More significantly because of all this, it saved money. In fact six figure sums of money which all directly linked to its increase in engagement.

It achieved and still achieves more for less, its employees came up with new ideas and innovations, some of which are now generating income.

The change was so significant that the Chief Exec believes, and tells others that increasing his employee engagement ‘transformed this business’.

So while many businesses may need to spend less money and achieve more they may already have the answer. The people they already employ. They just need to make sure they maximise the talent they have by engaging them in the business they’re already part of.

19

BUZZCONNECT

Andrew Egan, an employment lawyer with Charles Lucas & Marshall, explains the significance of a court case which examined access to workers' private messages sent via chat software and webmail accounts.

WWW.CLMLAW.CO.UK

Employers. . .

Do you have an electronics communication policy?

E

mployees' use of email and the internet - including their activities on social network sites and blogs - can lead to performance issues, damage to the employer's reputation, loss of business and various legal liabilities.

There are a number of ways in which employers may monitor their employees' email content and traffic, internet and telephone use in the workplace.

A policy should identify the minimum element of an internet usage and surveillance policy, including specific misconduct being monitored.

The importance of providing information to employees about monitoring means that employers should have an electronic communications policy. The policy should actually extend beyond monitoring, to also set standards, cross-reference other policies and address the risks arising from email use and internet access, including: l Constructive dismissal

claims

l Discrimination, harassment

and defamation claims

l Intellectual property issues l Contractual liability l Loss of productivity

20

In a recent case, an engineer, Mr Barbulescu, was utilising his business messenger account to send communications to his family and partner, including very personal content!

His employer discovered this by accident and dismissed him. After going through the Romanian Courts, he took his case to the European Court of Human Rights arguing that his right to respect of his private life and correspondence was breached by his employer monitoring his personal communications at work.

The Court did not agree, recognising the need for employers to be able to verify that employees are completing professional tasks during working hours, subject to proportionality.

The court’s ruling does not, however, give employers the right to force access to the personal social media accounts or other communication accounts of workers, particularly when used on their own devices, although, there is scope for access being monitored if during work hours and on a work device.

Most employers are to a degree flexible about employees using their computers and the internet to conduct personal tasks as long as it is in break times and is not excessive.

The judgment highlights the need and importance of ensuring that appropriate and lawful employeemonitoring policies are in place, are covered in the employee’s employment contract and that they are communicated to employees and adhered to.

Merely letting staff know that their activities are under surveillance may not be enough to provide the employee with sufficient information about the nature, scope and effect of the internet monitoring policy.

A policy should identify the minimum element of an internet usage and surveillance policy, including specific misconduct being monitored.

For further information contact Andrew Egan on 01635 521212 or andrew.egan@clmlaw.co.uk

BUZZCONNECT

WWW.BIGGERBRIGHTERBOLDER.CO.UK

As a driven entrepreneur, we can sometimes get extremely bogged down in the running of the business and miss out some of the crucial fun elements that can actually have a significant impact on our success as a business owner.

True success isn’t just about your business R

ichard Garnett expanded his goals this year to incorporate his personal dream and it had a profound effect on this success.

there all from different types of businesses and all in the same boat and attending the groups gives me the space I need to think big.”

He owns the highly successful Newbury branch of the Ripples Franchise with his wife Diane. Ripples designs and supplies beautiful bathrooms. Not just a standard bathroom but something that would be well placed in a luxury spa or an up-market hotel. If you’re local it’s well worth a visit as the showroom is inspirational.

In thinking bigger, Richard realised he wasn’t making any of his personal goals a priority. His rally car had been “moth-balled” in the garage for 9 years and whilst he’d meant to commit time to getting it back on the road, there always seemed to be something else that was more important. This year he made the commitment to get it sorted and get it rally ready. “I committed to the goal, broke it down into a plan and set out to get the help I needed. “

Ripples Newbury is a very successful franchise. Like all very successful business owners though, Richard doesn’t stand still for too long and is driven forward by the “What now, what next?” question. “We had reached a bit of a plateau,” he said.

“I needed a push and some new ideas.”

Richard joined BBB Success Groups in April 2015. “I really like George and his down to earth, “no holds barred”, “tell it how it is” approach to personal development.

It’s training on mindset rather than skills. There’s a fantastic group of people

The Ripples branded rally car was registered last month, has already been racing and is all set for the racing championship in February.

year ever! My staff are much more motivated and I’m embracing allowing them to manage personal things at work so they feel more empowered to make decisions and not have to divide their own lives up so much.”

We have but one life and it’s a rich tapestry, we need to embrace as much of it as possible.”

What’s your advice for other Business Owners?

“If you’re a good business owner you should be setting, reviewing and achieving goals,” says Richard.

“Running a business can be exhausting so it’s good to have variety and time out to keep the energy up. It’s easy to get distracted if you don’t plan and stick to your goals.

We have but one life and it’s a rich tapestry, we need to embrace as much of it as possible.”

So how did getting a rally car ready impact the business?

“It’s had a huge impact!,” says Richard. “I am having much more fun and this new positive attitude and excitement has spilled into the business and things are being done differently. We have had the best financial

21

BuzzConnect Monthly Networking

events@localbuzzmagazine.com

Creative Walk with Photography

on

UT

O D SOL

Fri 4 Mar

Nature Discovery Centre, Thatcham 10:00 – 12:00

£3.00

www.westberks.gov.uk/libraryfest 01635 519900

West Berkshire Mencap’s 12th Charity Race Day Fri 4 Mar

Newbury Racecourse 12:00 – 17:00 See flyer online for donations and sponsors Guests will have exclusive use of the Racegoers Restaurant with a fabulous view of the finish whilst enjoying delicious food and great company. Register your interest in hosting a table, donating a raffle prize or action lot, or even sponsoring a race, please visit www.westberkshiremencap. org/under-starters-orders and download, complete and return the form.

For further information contact West Berkshire Mencap on 01635 41464 or email info@wbmencap.org

Emotional Intelligence Delivered by loving monday

mon 7 Mar Council Offices Committee Room, 1 Market Street, Newbury, RG14 5LD 9:00 - 12:00 Recent research has estimated that around 85% of the difference between ‘star’ and average performers in management roles can be attributed to emotional intelligence. Emotional intelligence has 5 key elements.This session will help you understand what they are, why they should be important to you and the effect of getting them right.

For more information, please call 01635 200006 or email info@buzz-connect.co.uk

3rd Thursday of the Month a date for your diary!

Next events - 17th Mar & 21st Apr

Don’t miss!

Add to your diary now!

Heritage Walk

Showtime Market

Starting at Pangbourne Library

New Greenham Arts, Greenham Business Park, Thatcham

Tues 8 Mar

11:00 – 13:00 FREE (with ticket) www.westberks.gov.uk/libraryfest 01635 519900

Play Affordable Golf @ Bishopswood Golf Course Till end of March

Bishopswood Golf Course, Bishopswood Lane, Tadley, Hampshire, RG26 4AT 8:00 – 16:00 Every Monday and Thursday Play 9-holes of golf on a Monday or Thursday for £9.95 Call 0118 940 8601, book a tee time between 8:00 and 16:00. For more information visit www.bishopswoodgc.co.uk

thu 17 march

20:00 – 22:00 £10 (£8) Nomads Musical Theatre take some of the very best musical numbers from the stage and present them in a unique collage of amusing characters. It’s musical mayhem that will keep you smiling and your toes tapping.

Trevor Dobson 01635 865321

3D Printing Workshop Tues 29 Mar

Newbury Library 10:00 – 14:30 (time slots) £3.00 (30mins slots) www.westberks.gov.uk/libraryfest library@westberks.gov.uk 01635 519900

West Berkshire Mencap’s Annual Quiz Night

Collagraph Printing Taster Workshop

The Mencap Centre, Enborne Rd, Newbury

Lambourn Library

fri 11 mar

19:30 – 22:30

BuzzConnect workshop

event at the Donnington Grove Hotel

£7.50 per person

General knowledge quiz and a supper choice of fish & chips or a vegetarian burger and chips. Teams of no more than six members. Ticket price includes the supper. Please bring your own drinks, glasses and nibbles. Raffle.

Call the charity on 01635 41464.

BuzzConnect Monthly Networking Event thur 17 Mar

Wed 30 Mar

14:00 – 16:00 £5.00 www.westberks.gov.uk/libraryfest library@westberks.gov.uk 01635 519900

Coding Dance Workshop Fri 1 Apr

Wash Common Community Centre 10:00 – 12:00 £3.00 www.westberks.gov.uk/libraryfest library@westberks.gov.uk 01635 519900

Donnington Grove Country Club Newbury, RG14 2LA

The Ugly Duckling

17:30 - 19:00

Theale Library

BuzzConnect provides a framework and an array of events purposely developed to enhance your business performance.

For more information, please call 01635 200006 or email info@buzz-connect.co.uk

Fri 1 Apr

Starting at 14:00 £3.00 www.westberks.gov.uk/libraryfest library@westberks.gov.uk 01635 519900

s rt e g a tiv itin rea ies Exc nd c tivit a ac

6th February - 23rd April Exciting arts and creative activities for everyone in all nine West Berkshire libraries.

Advance booking essential for most activities.

For details see our LibraryFest brochure online or pick up a copy at your local library.

Jumble Sale in aid of Newbury Cats Protection sat 2 Apr

WHERE: Catholic Hall, Bath Rd, Thatcham 11:30 – 14:30 40p per person High quality bargins! Jumble accepted on the day at the centre between 9.00-10.30am.

Refreshments available.

01635 200111

www.cats.org.uk/Newbury

Magic Hands Sun 3 Apr

Newbury Library Starting at 10:00 £3.00 www.westberks.gov.uk/libraryfest library@westberks.gov.uk 01635 519900

The Ugly Duckling Sun 3 Apr

Newbury Library

entertainments including outings, bingo and pub visits.

Jane Belcher 01635 40210 www.westberks.gov.uk 01635 519900

Alexander Technique sat 9 Apr

St John's School, Marlborough SN8 4AX UK 10:00 – 15:00 £45.00 Alexander Technique is a scientifically proven hands on re-education system for the human mind body. Widely used for relief of back and neck pain. The tutor’s classes are fun and easy to follow.

Book on Davina Nichols 01672- 519537 or e-mail dnichols@stjohns.wilts.sch.uk

BuzzConnect workshop

Getting Leadership to Work Organisation Integrity

Hungerford Big Business Breakfast tues 19 Apr

Herongate Leisure, Hungerford 12:30 – 14:00 £10.00 The Hungerford Big Business Breakfast Club offers something different and provides a great chance to network without becoming a duty. info@Hungerfordbbb.com 07746 893 468

51st Worldwide Sketchcrawl Around Central Newbury sat 23 Apr

Starting at Newbury Library 10:00 – 16:00 FREE (with ticket) www.westberks.gov.uk/libraryfest library@westberks.gov.uk 01635 519900

World Book Night

Starting at 13:00 £3.00 www.westberks.gov.uk/libraryfest library@westberks.gov.uk 01635 519900

Delivered by People Essentials

sat 23 Apr

WED 13 APR

Starting at Newbury Library

Paper Cup Challenge

8:30 - 10:30

Starting at 18:45 FREE www.westberks.gov.uk/libraryfest library@westberks.gov.uk

Mon 4 Apr

lambourn Library 10:00 – 13:00 £5.00 www.westberks.gov.uk/libraryfest library@westberks.gov.uk 01635 519900

Newbury Torch Club tues 5 Apr

Fairclose, Newtown Road, Newbury 19:00 – 21:00 Members pay a small subscription on the evenings they come.

Torch Club is a friendly social club for people who are new to the area, lonely, disabled, depressed or bereaved and wish to have a club to go to on a regular basis.

The meetings take place on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday evening of every month with varied

FREE

Upload your events FREE to www.localbuzzmagazine.com

Newbury College, Newbury RG14 7TD When leaders create a working environment that engages their employees, there is a direct impact on profit, productivity and customer satisfaction. This event gives you practical tips for developing a more engaging workplace.

For more information, please call 01635 200006 or email info@buzz-connect.co.uk

Question and Answer Time – Adam Brown sat 16 Apr

Hungerford Library 10:00 – 11:00 FREE (with ticket) www.westberks.gov.uk/libraryfest library@westberks.gov.uk 01635 519900

Some details may be subject to change so please check www.localbuzzmagazine.com before you book or travel for an event. ://entertainment.askbuzz.co.uk

Author Talk – Erwin James sat 23 Apr

Starting at Newbury Library 19:30 – 20:30 FREE (with ticket) www.westberks.gov.uk/libraryfest library@westberks.gov.uk 01635 519900

Woolton Hill Church Hall – Village Market sat 30 Apr

Woolton Hill Church Hall, Woolton Hill, Newbury 10:00 – 13:00 FREE Now a thriving venture on the last Saturday of every month. It supports local good causes through the tearoom, raffle and by offering a community information table. www.wooltonhillvillagemarket.co.uk/ calendar

of Tr TO ip P Ad 5 vi so r

Enjoy a variety of classic English and Italian dishes at The Spotted Dog in Cold Ash. These are complemented with a great selection of Real Ales and Fine Wines.

With a Lava Rock grill, Chef John Cowan and his team provide a top quality grill menu with all meat being supplied by Vickers and vegetables from Covent Garden.

NEW TO OUR MENU Home-made ice creams and desserts.

01635 862458 MONDAY ITALIAN NIGHT Homemade pasta and sauces plus chicken and steak dishes made on the premises

by Porko Grasso Italian Restaurant Head Chef.

Food served all day Mon-Sat - 12pm - 9pm Sunday - 12pm - 6pm 01635 862458 or see us on spotteddogcoldash.co.uk

Book now for Mother’s Day at the recently refurbished Indigo Bay!

Book your table now and have a drink on us.

01635 35000 www.indigobayrestaurant.co.uk 54-55 Bartholomew St, Newbury RG14 5QA

Top Tips Staying focused

It’s March and for many this seems to be the time when New Years resolutions slip. With health, fitness and weightless goals being listed as the top resolutions, here are a few tips on how to stay focused & motivated for the year ahead!

Mix It Up

O

ften people give up on workouts because of boredom. Repeating the same programme can quickly become tiresome so be sure to mix up your exercise. Try a few classes, go for a jog, swim, lift weights or workout in the park with friends! Remember, Stretching and rest days are just as important as burning calories and toning. Tight muscles don’t function efficiently so make sure to give your body and mind time to relax.

Get Outside

T

he benefits of exercise are numerous and wherever you choose to workout, any form of activity is great. However, getting outdoors has even more positive effects on the body. Oxygen has been proven to encourage a sense of happiness and well-being, alongside aiding better digestion, strengthening your immune system and boosting energy levels.

Find A Buddy

Y

ou are much more likely to stay motivated and find the fun in your activities with friends. No one wants to let their friends down so you are much more likely to get up and meet them for a session then

L aurabella H &B D S ealth

March

motivating just yourself out of bed!

Also, try using social media to stay connected and encouraged. Ignore the fake, airbrushed accounts and pick out a few positive Twitter, Instagram or Facebook pages that offer you great fitness tips and motivational quotes.

eauty

Microdermabrasion Facial £45.

Microdermabrasion Bright Eye Facial £25.

Combined price £60.

pa

www.facebook.com/shakiraakabusifitness

Opening Hours

Monday to Thursday 9am to 9pm Friday and Saturday 9am to 7pm Sunday 10am to 4pm

COMe And Meet tAnyA Our reflexOlOgiSt for an introduction to Reflexology only £10

Traditional Manicure and Pedicure for £50.

Mother’s Day Mother and daughter express facial, just £35 for both of you.

April

ay

Shakira Akabusi www.stronglikemum.com T: @shakiraakabusi I: @shakira.akabusi

£20 fOr 1St treAtMent with richard the Acupuncturist

Spa Special - Only £20 Enjoy a relaxing hour in the Hot Tub followed by a Himalayan Scrub. 10% off any massage or facial you have with this spa day.

Strattons Farm, Newbury Road, Kingsclere RG20 4SZ

AMAzing Offer frOM dr dAy £50 off any aesthetic treatment in March and April

Download the Laurabella App, a convenient and easy way to make appointments.

For extra information and daily promotions find us on Facebook and Twitter and like our page.

T: 01635 291211

www.laurabella.co.uk Laurabella Day Spa

HEALTH . BEAUTY . WELLBEING

Mel Harrison

The Pain of Gardening

“I suffered severe sciatic pain in my right leg and lower back making it impossible for me to work.

From the first visit, Mel eased my pain and have since made a full recovery.” ANDY

This time of year is my busiest time. . . why?

Providing a professional and personalised osteopathic approach to give you pain relief

07727 666312 www.melharrisonosteopath.co.uk

O

ver the winter we are less active, we lose strength and flexibility and the cold winter air and less activity causes our spines to stiffen up.

melharrison156@yahoo.com Melanie Harrison Osteopathy @OsteoMel

Then our gardens become a mess in the spring and all of a sudden we think we are fit enough to spend a whole day or even a whole weekend bent over for hours on end doing physical work. I bet a low percentage of you warm up or cool down with stretching either, because gardening isn’t considered a sport, right?

This is why my Monday mornings are filled with calls from patients who have hurt their backs or shoulders from gardening over the weekend.

Hint and tips:

Spots

l Stretch before and after gardening l Use your knees- squat down closer to what you are

working on, rather than bending through your spine l Take regular breaks

A spinal check is important to prevent future aches and pains. You visit your dentist regularly, why not your osteopath?

07727 666312 www.melharrisonosteopath.co.uk melharrison156@yahoo.com ASK MEL BUZZ OSTEOPATHY EXPERT

Often appearing at the worst times; spots are unsightly and can be uncomfortable.

They occur when oil called sebum comes into contact with blocked pores.

T

o reduce the risk of spots you should prevent excess oil build up by keeping your hair clean and off your face.

You should also avoid the use of irritants like greasy makeup and certain sunscreens. Daily washing with a gentle cleanser is recommended and wash your towels regularly because dirty ones spread bacteria.

benzoyl peroxide, salicyclic acid and alpha hydroxy acids, as these help to unblock pores, prevent oiliness, kill bacteria and speed up the growth of new skin cells. You should avoid squeezing spots as this can cause infection and scarring.

Exfoliation can improve the effectiveness of topical treatments and improve the appearance of skin.

If you do get a spot you can try products which contain 27

PROPERTY

Vision Development South Ltd is a wholly family run timber frame manufacturer situated in Reading.

Formed to meet the ever increasing demand of aspiring self-builders, developers and construction companies, for energy efficient high performance homes that not only dramatically reduce energy costs but save considerable time in their superfast construction.

We are dedicated to provide you with a high quality structure made with responsibly sourced timber at a competitive price.

Choosing a Timber Frame solution for your new build will provide a robust structure which is fully engineered and often exceeds requirements of Building Regulations.

The new na

O

ur totally flexible systems lend themselves well to homes, extensions, schools, hotels, offices and sporting facilities.

The Timber Frame Panels are prefabricated in our factory before reaching site which greatly reduces any build program and is not subject to long delays for ‘drying out’ periods or inclement weather conditions. Crucial factors to any project large or small.

The speed of the build means the new construction is soon in use and due to the high level of thermal efficiency and air tightness the energy savings continue indefinitely. This level of efficiency is attained using high quality insulation and membranes incorporated in a 140mm timber frame panel, giving a streamline build with less compromise on space.

The recently completed Closed Panel Timber Frame home achieved a ‘U’ Value of 0.14 for the walls and an incredible overall EPC rating of A+ (97 out of 100 available score) which means that over a period of 3 years, the total energy costs will amount to less than £1,750. This includes heating, lighting, appliance use and hot water, resulting in an average expense of under £600 per year for an 1800 sq foot house. The added installation of solar panels contribute to the power source and of course enjoys a pay-back from the grid when an excess of electricity is achieved.

Closed Panel Timber Frame home

Vision’s factory is based in Reading where both open and closed panel timber frame systems are manufactured to your specification or alternatively designed in-house to meet

your discerning requirements. For ease Kit houses are available too and can be seen on our website www.timber-frame-suppliers.co.uk.

The team at Vision is continuously researching new concepts and technologies to further develop the timber frame panel systems providing the best and most competitive service possible.

The process could not be simpler and is available to all who seek to invest wisely.

(top) Render and tile hang combination (below) Render and brick combination Brick exterior skin to timber frame homes

Bungalow conversion

Gallery of new homes and extensions demonstrating the varying exterior finishes that can be achieved.

me in Timber frame (left and below left) Fabulous new home designed by client

TIMBER FRAME BENEFITS AND WHAT WE CAN OFFER l Design facility working with you

to ensure the desired objectives are reached.

l Fabricated in-house where every (below) Timber clad exteriors

element of the panels are quality controlled to the highest standard. l Speedy assembly times reducing time

and labour costs on-site. l Excellent thermal and acoustic qualities. l Construction process not dependent

on weather conditions. l The versatility of timber frame suits

almost any design. l Savings in ongoing running costs.

MAKING MONEY FROM YOUR PLOT This golden opportunity is open to anyone who may have a plot of land or garden large enough to accommodate a new home, subject to planning. In realizing your asset, Vision can offer assistance in unlocking the equity with joint venture possibilities and the benefit of shared profits. www.timber-framesuppliers.co.uk/landowners

l Reduced carbon footprint.

www.timber-frame-suppliers.co.uk 01189 712181 tim@vision-dsl.com

Are you looking at the possibilities of using timber frame for your project and want to know more, then give our team a call on

01189 712181

RATING EB

25

CEL

CEL

PROPERTY

RATING EB

Contact us for a FREE no obligation market appraisal of your property YEAR

We provide a full and comprehensive property management service looking after our clients property investments. We operate on a full 24 hour 7 day a week basis for single properties or mixed portfolios to suit your needs. We comply with the codes of conduct laid down by ARLA and LLEx to ensure a professional service.

S

YEAR

S

your local heating oil supplier Keeping Berkshire families warm for over 50 years

We are able to help with: n Full property management n Letting & rent collection n Ground rent collection n Maintenance & repair n Property inspections n Property development

& conversion

n Service charge

administration & collection

n Flat block management n Rental valuation

We are a local, family run company committed to providing an expert and friendly service to all of our customers.

With depots located across the South of England, WP Heating provide standard and emergency heating oil deliveries.

To find our more about our range of products and services or to place an order call us on:

n Property sitting & security

01635 866446 www.henwickproperties.co.uk garry.kaxe@btconnect.com nicholas.kaxe@btconnect.com

www.cleverinteriors.co.uk

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PROPERTY

By Richard Deal

PROPERTY EXPERT From Deal Varney www.dealvarney.co.uk

Deal Varney report the New Year started somewhat slowly but as we start to take our nervous footsteps into 2016 demand seems to be returning to all sectors although the retail market remains a little quiet.

The commercial core of offices in Newbury contributes some £20m per annum to the local economy through rates payments. . .

Property Roundup R ecent letting activity in the retail market has been caused by the proposed development in Bartholomew Street, moving a number of retailers away from their location and some of these have already taken premises elsewhere in the town centre.

The office market remains quiet and there has been the announcement of the departure of Heat Computers from Newbury Business Park as well as Amec Foster Wheeler who are moving to Reading. The relocation of these two firms continues a story that is causing some concern, particularly following the Bayer departure.

Deal Varney report the successful sale of two properties at Kingfisher Court totalling 7,000 sq ft and both sold to Newbury based businesses.

In the town centre St Anthony’s House in Oxford Square has been let to Outsource International Limited who have relocated from London Road, taking 2,261 sq ft.

At Padworth a workshop with first floor offices has been sold to Digitgain Limited for their own occupation.

The commercial core of offices in Newbury contributes some £20m per annum to the local economy through rates payments. The loss of Bayer alone will reduce this by some quarter of a million revenue unless other commercial occupiers replace the business in Strawberry Hill.

Oxford Square

A small suite at Commercial House in Newbury has been let to Creative Support Limited, taking 450 sq ft.

On the retail front, the agent reports completion of the letting of Market Place, Abingdon, to Sue Ryder.

4 Bridge Street, Newbury is now under offer subject to planning, this is the former Oldbury’s café unit, which is under offer as a burger house restaurant.

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PROPERTY

Adaptable business unit set within attractive, modern business park.

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Villa Bella is a beautifully restored traditional property located at the centre of a quiet and peaceful village, just 12 km from Bulgaria's premier ski resort Bansko. With wonderful views of the Pirin and Rila mountains.

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Want to make sure you’re completing your 10,000 steps a day, or looking to improve your training?

An activity tracker can help. The FitBit is probably the best known brand on the market, with several models to choose from.

The entry level Zip, at around £50, tracks your steps, distance walked and calories burned.

THE addictive FITBIT The Zip The entry level Zip, at around £50, tracks your steps, distance walked and calories burned. “So it’s a fancy pedometer then?” I hear you ask. Well, yes, basically, but it’s more responsive and you can sync it to your computer or smartphone to see your activity presented as a graph. This makes it much easier to monitor your activity levels over time and track you progress.

The Zip also acts as a watch, and there are various other extras, such as the ability to log your food intake.

one or flex Feel like you’re getting your full eight hours of sleep, but still feel tired? You might want to opt for One or Flex, which track your sleep as well as your activity. They also have silent alarms, to wake you up, but not your partner.

One clips onto your clothing, while Flex is worn like a watch. There are some differences in what they offer – Flex doesn’t have a clock, for example.

surge

now a warning. . .

Top of the range is Surge, at around £200. It’s been designed for people who are really serious about their sports performance, and want to monitor every aspect of their training. For instance, you can track the route you’re running using GPS. You can also control music and read texts that come through to your smartphone.

It is possible to get ever so slightly obsessed with the FitBit. You can easily find yourself checking it hundreds of times a day, which can distract you from real life, and you can find yourself pushing ever harder, unnecessarily.

So which one to go for? Well Zip is a great choice if you just want to check whether you’re walking those recommended 10,000 steps a day.

If you cycle, run, or enjoy another sport, you’ll want to opt for a more advanced model.

charge Charge is similar to Flex, in that you wear it like a watch, but it comes with some added extras, such as a clock. If your phone is nearby and it rings, the caller ID will come up on the Charge display. It also has a better battery life, of up to 10 days.

Charge HR is designed for people who work out regularly, as it can recognise different exercises, and has an automatic heart-rate monitor to help maximise your training.

On the positive side, it does encourage you to increase your activity levels and build up your fitness. Like so much in life, the key is moderation.

Tempted? Head to: www.fitbit.com

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GARDEN VIEW

The first day of spring this year is officially March 20th. Trees are blossoming and een daffodils are in er Fergus Gr Buzz Garden bloom. The garden has woken up from its winter sleep and is full of promise.

But promise is not enough.

A beautiful garden does not happen by chance. So what are the top jobs for March gardeners?

Pruning features large!

Hard-prune those late flowering shrubs like Buddleia, Leycesteria and Lavateria, but only if the risk of heavy frost is past.

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pring-flowering plants such as Forsythia and Winter Honeysuckle should be pruned immediately the flowers fade.

If you haven’t already pruned your bush roses, now is the time. Leave about an inch of last year’s growth to encourage bushiness and lots of flowers. Shrub roses don’t need such radical treatment but would benefit from losing a third of their old, thick, woody stems.

Lovely Lilies and a spot of hard-pruning

Lift congested clumps of snowdrops while they still have leaves showing.

Finally, stay on top of the weeds. If you leave them, weeding quickly becomes an insurmountable chore. Ok, we’ve dispensed with the hard work, now it’s time to look ahead.

I have one word for you. . . Lilies I always thought they were tricky to grow, and so they proved, mainly because my garden doubles as a slug sanctuary!

Then I had an epiphany. It dawned on me that if I grew them in pots, slug prevention would be easier, plus I didn’t

run the risk of slicing through the fat, scaly bulbs or tender shoots with my hoe while enthusiastically weeding my plot. Even better, it means you can grow them even if you only have a balcony.

There are loads of varieties in the garden centres right now. Three bulbs fit nicely into an 8inch / 20cm pot and five fit into a ten inch / 25cm pot. I’ve found terracotta pots best because they provide enough weight to prevent these tall plants tipping over.

Lilies need an open planting mixture which drains well so I use a mixture of potting compost plus a soil-less multi-purpose compost. The bulb tips should be a couple of inches below the compost.

Keep in a sheltered spot and water when the surface of the compost looks dry. Once the buds have formed, feed weekly with dilute tomato food until late summer. When the blooms fade, cut the stems down and place in a sheltered spot.

Each spring, scrape away a couple of inches of compost and add fresh mixture, then repeat the instructions above. Treated like this your lilies will reward you for three or four years before they need re-potting.

There are a plethora of colours and scents available, so there is a lily for everyone. Try them. I guarantee you’ll be as in love with lilies as I am.

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hunterswick green

LONDON HAS FALLEN 4TH MAR

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esigned by handsome and predatory Michael King, the Hunterswick Green complex built in fifty acres of rolling countryside offers, if you believe the brochures, ‘a great new way of living’ to the discerning purchasers of its luxury homes.

Peter and Alison buy into the dream but Alison has the feeling she is being watched – and who is showing lights in the wood at night?

The young couple discover to their cost that perfection comes at a price and Hunterswick Green is not at all what it seems. . .

the bounder

BY MIKE DAUNT "

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his book is an often bawdy romp through just some of Mike's adventures from a deeply unhappy childhood to the raddled septuagenarian scribe, bon viveur and lecher that he is today." Chris Tarrant

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ollowing the dramatic events of Olympus Has Fallen, Mike Banning is back to protect President Benjamin Asher against an even greater and more terrifying threat.

KUNG FU PANDA 3 11TH MAR

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he third instalment in the franchise sees Po reunite with his biological father and head to a secret panda sanctuary, only for an ancient spirit to terrorize the nation.

ZOOTROPOLIS

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25TH MAR

he first bunny police officer must work side-by-side with a scam-artist fox to crack a case in the sprawling city of Zootropolis.

MY BIG FAT GREEK WEDDING 2 25TH MAR

A

s Toula and Ian face the challenges that come with a difficult teenage daughter, it’s time to prepare for yet another big, fat, Greek wedding – one set to be even more problematic than the last.

BATMAN VS. SUPERMAN: DAWN OF JUSTICE

The Queen at Leisure

25TH MAR

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wo of the most powerful heroes of all time face off in this long-awaited and thrilling spectacle.

BY DEREK ANSELL

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MARCH

MARCH

BY IRIS LLOYD

he Queen at Leisure is the story of the love between King Henry VIII and Jane Seymour, his third and favourite wife.

It covers her attempts to restore his daughters by previous marriage, Mary and Elizabeth, back to favour at the court and also the uprising in the north of England, known as the Pilgrimage of Grace, by gentry and commons who wanted Henry removed and the Catholic church restored. And finally, her destiny as mother of Henry's only legitimate son and heir.

APRIL

EDDIE THE EAGLE

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1ST APR

he story of Great Britain's first ski jumper to enter the Winter Olympics.

CAPTAIN AMERICA: CIVIL WAR 29TH APR

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THEATRE

n incident leads to the Avengers developing a schism over how to deal with situations, which escalates into an open fight between allies Iron Man and Captain America.

Patrick Monahan: The Disco Years NEW GREENHAM ARTS Sat 5 Mar . 8pm . Tickets £13

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harged by Patrick’s memories and reminiscences of being an immigrant to Great Britain, this is a laugh out loud show that is both thoughtful and smart as well as brilliantly silly!

APRIL

Debra Stephenson CORN EXCHANGE NEWBURY Fri 1 Apr . 7.45pm . Tickets £17

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he star of BBC's Dead Ringers & The Impressions Show, and ITV's Newzoids & Coronation Street, and Bad Girls takes to the stage for an evening of comedy, music and impressions!

Rumpelstiltskin

NEW GREENHAM ARTS Sat 2 Apr . 11.30am . Tickets £10.50

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woolly wonderland of a show with spinning, weaving, lively puppetry, music and storytelling, perfect for the little ones aged 3+.

Forever Jackson

CORN EXCHANGE NEWBURY Sat 16 Apr . 7.45pm Tickets £20.50 (£18.50 concessions)

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he number one Michael Jackson tribute in the UK. With electrifying choreography, stunning special effects, superb musicians and a vast catalogue of hits – from the Jackson 5’s Can You Feel It to Thriller and Beat It, this is truly a show for everyone.

Stones in his Pockets CORN EXCHANGE NEWBURY Tue 19 Apr, 7.45pm Tickets £17 (£15 concessions)

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quiet Irish village community is turned upside down with the arrival of a Hollywood film crew, looking for the ‘real’ Ireland for their latest schmaltzy blockbuster. Written with poignancy and sincerity, performed at breakneck pace, this play has made deep connection with audiences in over 30 countries.

For full details go to our website - www.localbuzzmagazine.com

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