Wokingham Local Magazine Issue 5 March 2022

WOKINGHAM LOCAL WWW.WOKINGHAMLOCAL.CO.UK

MARCH 2022

FREE COPY!

JOYFUL CRAFTS TASTES OF THE WORLD GET SET... GLOW

Innovation PEOPLE & PLACES

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WHAT’S ON? WHAT’S NEW?

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FOOD & DRINK

ANTHONY BLAY PRESENTS...

Our new look shop, to welcome both new and existing customers. As the exclusive formal menswear shop in Wokingham we are pleased to announce that we have extended our range to include casual menswear also.

We have taken time to simplify our interior design and enhance your shopping experience.

Our current range is now set out on one side of the shop, and we are looking forward to visiting our next trade show to source the very latest products, guaranteed to suit the men of Wokingham and further afield, of all ages. Our range of accessories include stock belts, shoes and shirts. We also have a selection of coats/suits and dinner suits. We are extending our Marc Darcy range and the beauty of this suit, is the fact that it ranges in age from 1 year old upwards. We will be stocking casual trousers as well as a range of polo tops very shortly.

Our wedding suit section is displayed by colour and there is an area where larger parties can meet, relax and enjoy every moment of their wedding experience. Our refurbished shop is bright and spacious which shows our ranges extremely well.

We offer ample parking which is situated just behind the shop, ensuring an easy and stress free visit.

We look forward to welcoming you all. It has been a difficult couple of years, however, we are extremely positive for the future, and to constantly improving our products and service to Wokingham and surrounding areas.

Please pop in and see Jayne or Anna.

27 Rose Street, Wokingham RG40 1XS 0118 978 1861

Broken your Phone or Tablet?

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iPods - iPads Tablets Smartphones Game Consoles PC’s , Laptops & more

WE BUY – SELL – REPAIR For Local Repairs, Call 0118 304 7777 www.prattspods.co.uk email: info@prattspods.co.uk

WELCOME...

INNOVATION - is everywhere in Wokingham right now...

From the amazing transformation of Anthony Blay Menswear shop, with their new range of men’s casual wear - looking fantastic on Rose Street, all the way to Mantle Serviced Offices getting us out of our homes over on Molly Millars Lane. They actually are in Innovation House, how totally apt is that?

Well, this issue’s special features have proved tremendously popular. We have ‘jolly crafts’ featuring Holme Grange craft village, and ‘Get, Set.. Glow’ from Andresa and Elan together with all your favourite Mother’s Day gifts for Sunday the 27th March. Then we have ‘Tastes of the World’ which really does take us on a journey, which both starts and ends right here in Wokingham and also gives us an insight into the food production world with our regular feature - ‘5 mins with, Charlie Bigham’.

KINDNESS - is also very evident around Wokingham, with heart warming stories such as Pratts Pods helping elderly residents within our community with their technical problems, free of charge, as well.

More about this in our next issue - talking of which... We will be featuring ‘sustainability’ from Buying Local to green living and much more.

Do you have an interesting story to share with us? Do you have an original and delicious recipe to share?

Or, would you like to send us some feedback as to your opinion of our Wokingham local magazine?

As Charlie Bigham said ‘’feedback is gold dust’’.

Jacqui - info@wokinghamlocal.co.uk or please call me on 07306 146142

Jacqui

If you wish to submit features, please email: info@wokinghamlocal.co.uk. To advertise, call Jacqui on 07306 146142.

Wokingham Local Magazine is published by Local Area Ltd, a company registered in England & Wales number 13415030.

Registered office: Markham House, 20 Broad Street, Wokingham, RG40 1AH. Wokingham Local Magazine, © 2021, Local Area Ltd. Reprinting any part appearing in this magazine is strictly forbidden except by permission of the publisher. All copyright of images/content remains that of its contributors. Every effort has been made to gain permission to publish copyright material. However, where efforts have been exhausted, we have published based on ‘Fair Use’ to comment factual based material whereby its use is not central or plays a significant part in the entire publication but to act as an aid for historical and educational purposes only. This publication is offered as a limited print run. The publisher makes every effort to ensure that the magazine’s contents are correct. However, it cannot take responsibility for any effects from errors or omissions.

Wokingham Local accepts all advertisements in good faith but is unable to accept any responsibility or liability for any of the services or products provided by advertisers and encourages consumers to make checks before hiring/buying services, such as a vetted service provided by Trading Standards’ ‘Buy with Confidence’ scheme: www.buywithconfidence.gov.uk.

WOKINGHAM LOCAL • MARCH 2022

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FREE VEHICLE SAFETY CHECK

Make sure your car runs at its best with our FREE vehicle safety check. We will check your tyres, brakes, bulbs, battery and more, free of charge.

Book your appointment on 0118 932 1670

Mulgari is a family-run business, providing high-quality customer service. Darren is the owner of Mulgari and has built a reputation for honesty and reliability, servicing all makes and models of cars. Mulgari carry out everything from a simple oil change to the main dealer servicing schedule. They have the latest equipment for diagnosing engine management, other warning lights and poor running of your vehicle.

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Wayne.H July 2021

Contact Darren Boorman direct on 0118 932 1670 Mulgari - Unit 6 Anglo Industrial Park, Fishponds Rd, Wokingham RG41 2AN

CONTENTS

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36

8

Lifestory Homes

11

What sort of relationships do you want?

Hannah Kenison, Family Therapist

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Bristish Recycled Plastic The need for accessibilty

22

Holme Grange Joyful Crafts

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Recipe - Dark chocolate raspberry parfait

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Five Minutes With: Charlie Bigham

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Bombay Story How it all began

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Holi The world’s most colourful festival

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Recipe - Malapua

38

Cleverchefs

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Ruchetta Italian Dining

43

Sustainability Why Buy Local?

45

And Relax...

Richard’s Yoga

46

Put the Glow Back Into Aging Skin Élan Aesthetics

54

Buckingham Palace Guided Tours

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23

38 40

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START THE NEXT CHAPTER OF YOUR LIFE Community and well-being are at the heart of Renaissance’s approach to later living.

It is an approach that sets the specialist later living provider apart and that is no exception at its three Berkshire communities in Wokingham, Crowthorne and Sandhurst, each offering luxurious homes, with a welcoming community on your doorstep.

At the heart of the communities, delightful shared lounges and gardens are the perfect social setting for getting together and catching up with neighbours and friends. Each location provides homeowners and tenants with warm and welcoming environments, to help you stay connected and build lasting friendships.

“What’s nice is that nothing is set in stone, you can join the events if you want to but there is no obligation to do so. That’s what I enjoy most about the community; there is always company if I want it.”

Jenny Chaplin, Sandhurst Homeowner.

Each of the communities also make it easy to enjoy all that Berkshire and the local area has to offer. Ideally located on Yorktown Road and set in beautiful landscaped gardens, Renaissance Sandhurst, is within walking distance of local shops, services, and transport links.

Set on the leafy and pleasant Dukes Ride, close to the heart of the village, a thriving and friendly community awaits at Renaissance Crowthorne, with just the final homes remaining.

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With options to buy or rent with Renaissance, it’s all about the choice of freedom and flexible living.

Our Lifestory Homes with Heart collection also gives you the opportunity to discover our resale homes and become part of our established sold out community at Renaissance Wokingham.

To discover more about our Berkshire communities or to book a tour, contact a member of our friendly team on 01962 418 151

WOKINGHAM LOCAL • MARCH 2022

Award winning care homes

Our highly trained care home teams are specialists in residential, nursing, dementia and respite care. With some of the highest care ratings in the UK, we’re trusted to help you and your family at every step of your journey.

If you’re considering permanent or respite care for yourself or a loved one, call 0333 242 8637 to arrange a tour or one-toone chat, or visit careuk.com/berkshire

Trusted to care.

Our care homes in Berkshire Bickerton House, Bracknell Parsons Grange, Shinfield

What sort of relationships do you want?

I have lived on the outskirts of Wokingham for the majority of my life. I moved away for university, but returned as I felt drawn back to the place that feels most like home.

When I think about Wokingham, I think about my schools, the coffee shops, and the bustle of our town. I think about the people I’ve met along the way that have influenced who I am today: My family, friends, neighbours, teachers. I then also think about the people that have had a smaller role in my life, but an important one nonetheless: The local baker’s delicious crusty rolls; the local clown making me laugh at birthday parties; and the reliable curry house for always making the best veggie jalfrezi.

Thinking about these cherished memories has also sparked thoughts about the tough times of life, and the moments where I missed opportunities to make things better.

Our words and actions are also influenced by spoken and unspoken ‘rules’ in the community. For example, different religious groups and cultures may have ‘rules’ of how children, parents and neighbours speak to each other; and in other groups and cultures, the ‘rules’ may be different.

These values, beliefs and ‘rules’ lead us into patterns of communicating that we have engaged in for years, maybe decades. These patterns can make it difficult for us to say or do different things which might help make our relationships better (Pearce, 2007).

So how can we step out of these patterns?

Could there be a way of creating the kind of relationship that we want for ourselves, our families and communities?

Family therapy gives a space to talk about your relationships, and how you want your relationships to be. What sort of relationships do you want?

The nature of our conversations have a big impact on how we feel about ourselves and how we feel about others. Our words and actions are often connected to things that have happened that day, or at any point in our lives, and in the values and beliefs passed down to us from different generations.

Pearce, B. (2007) Making social worlds: A communication perspective. Massachusetts: Blackwell Publishing.

Hannah Kenison, Family Therapist. Mobile: 07773 072732 Email: hannahmkenison@gmail.com

EASTER HOLIDAY CAMP WITH

Chance to Dance Stars CIC

Monday 4th to Wednesday 6th April 2022 at Carnation Hall, Bracknell, RG42 7PA

Schedule of the Day

Costing

10am: Arrive 10.30am: Sports 11.30am: Snack/Hygiene 11.45am: Dance 12.45pm: Lunch and Outside Play 2pm: Messy/Sensory Play 2.45pm: Snack and Hygiene 3pm: Kids Zumba, Generation Pound & Yoga 4pm: Home

£25 for Bracknell Forest Council Residents

Funding has been provided by Bracknell Forest Council

£30 for everyone who lives outside of RBC

Booking

www.chance-to-dance.class4kids.co.uk/camp/18 Facebook: @C2DStars Email: sendanceclub@hotmail.com Call/Text: 07736343570 If your child requires 1:1 support please contact Chance to Dance Stars CIC before booking: Victoria Andrews Founder & Dance Teacher at Chance to Dance Stars CIC

www.sendanceclub.co.uk

“Thanks a million for these wonderful sessions! Kyle’s looking forward to the next lot! And I got tonnes of work done while you had him! So mummy and boy very happy indeed!’’ Parent review

a south hill park production

Based on the dreamWorks animation motion picture and the Book By William steig

georgie Banks as Princess Fiona

Book and lyrics by david lindsay-abaire

ashleigh Wells as Lord Farquaad

music by Jeanine tesori

originally produced on Broadway by dreamWorks theatricals and neal street productions

Mon 11 – Mon 18 april 2022 Wilde theatre Brad Clapson as Shrek

poppy ridell as Donkey This amateur production is presented by arrangement with Music Theatre International (Europe) All authorised performance materials are also supplied by MTI Europe www.mtishows.co.uk

coming soon to south hill park

the Four seasons

purple Zeppelin

tue 8 march

sat 12 march

Buddy holly and the Cricketers

Back to Black: the Music of amy Winehouse

thu 24 march

sat 30 april

south hill park arts Centre, Bracknell rg12 7pa box office 01344 484123 · southhillpark.org.uk @southhillpark

/southhillparkartscentre

Berkshire’s Centre for the Arts, Business and Community

southhillpark

Registered charity 265656 Please support the future of the arts

Chris Walters Mobile: 07909 937 419 Email: enquiries@walterworksplumbingandheating.com www.walterworksplumbingandheating.com www.facebook.com/walterworksplumbing

WOKINGHAM LOCAL • MARCH 2022

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“I can’t recommend this firm highly enough. Lewis is an absolute testament to the word ‘Professional’. The job was run with the utmost attention to even the finest of details. Every challenge was discussed, thought through, executed and overcome perfectly. It was an absolute pleasure dealing with L&E Leadwork and Roofing Services and I would encourage anyone in need to employ their services”

“Lewis and his team did the roofing on a large extension in Caversham- Felt and batten, tiling, leadwork. I only have good things to say: His quality of work is of the highest standard. His team are all friendly and polite. They all worked really hard to get the job done ahead of schedule. I would highly recommend L&E Leadwork”

At L&E Leadwork and Roofing Services our main priority is our quality of work. Having an expert in every aspect of roofing within our business, we pride ourselves in providing work of the highest standard.

Whether it be a Pitched Roof, Flat Roof, Leadwork or small repairs, you can be confident in the knowledge that you have the very best specialist to under take your project. With over 15 years worth of knowledge and expertise we are justifiably proud of our reputation.

L&E LEADWORK AND ROOFING SERVICES www.landeleadworkandroofing.co.uk lewis@landeleadworkandroofing.co.uk m:07590762932 t:01344 862706

COME ONE, COME ALL The need for accessibility “Inclusion elevates all” – Elaine Hall We couldn’t have said it better ourselves, and it’s a sentiment that very much chimes with our own as a progressive, forward-thinking company.

Inclusivity is central to our ethos here at British Recycled Plastic, and we firmly believe there is always room for everyone at the table. Diversity makes our communities stronger, and we want to contribute to a world where everybody can occupy the same space without fear of exclusion.

Accessibility is the key to making that happen.

The stats According to the World Health Organisation, disabled people currently make up around 10 percent of the global population, with 11 million disabled people living in the UK. The Equality Act was introduced in the UK in 2010 to ensure adjustments were made to prevent discrimination 18

and promote inclusivity, but figures suggest it’s an ongoing process of incremental improvements.

According to the Office of National Statistics, over a quarter of disabled people say they do not WOKINGHAM LOCAL • MARCH 2022

frequently have choice and control over their daily lives, while one-third of disabled people experience difficulties accessing public, commercial and leisure services. Around three-quarters of disabled people also say they have left a shop or business because of poor disability awareness and understanding.

British Recycled Plastic strives to be part of the solution, which is why we want to play our part in changing these figures.

Making Waste Wonderful About British Recycled Plastic We’re very proud to offer our range of accessibility products that actively promote inclusivity and diversity, which can already be seen in various sites throughout the UK. We steadfastly believe that there is room for everyone, and we have an ongoing commitment to promote that ethos as widely as possible.

All of our recycled plastic products are not only incredibly tough and durable, but actively help to dismantle the UK’s domestic waste mountain and keep plastic out of landfill.

Our recycled plastic is completely rot-proof, splinter-proof and maintenance-free and it comes with a 25-year guarantee. This means that year after year after year, it will keep its good looks and robust functionality without needing anything other than an occasional wash down. Of course, as it is chemically inert, it can be washed as often as wanted, with bleach, disinfectant or any other regular cleaning product.

Our role in the world of recycling is helping to reduce domestic waste and create products which are useful, long lasting and beautiful. Engineered from 100% British waste, our products are supplied to thousands of organisations and private homes across the UK: we believe they are the very best money can buy. We’re making waste wonderful.

by Paddy Wells of British Recycled Plastic | www.recycledplastic.co.uk WOKINGHAM LOCAL • MARCH 2022

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Bring the Sunshine into your Home

Glazed Windows and Doors Limited Are suppliers and installers of bespoke made windows, doors and conservatories who

pride themselves on quality, offering a vast amount of window and door products from upvc to hardwood to suit all needs and enhance your home. Spread the cost with our finance available from 0% APR. All installations come with a 10 year insurance backed guarantee and the completed installation registered with CERTASS. Lantern and Flat Roof Lights, just one of Glazed Windows and Doors specialities Supplying and installing made to measure lantern and flat roof lights, manufactured from aluminium will slim sightlines, lantern roofs flood your home with natural light. With a choice of self-cleaning glass (grey, blue or clear tints) allowing the lantern and flat roof light to suit any home.

Bi-folding, patio doors and windows Glazed Windows and Doors Limited are partners with Origin Doors and Windows who are fast becoming the number 1 brand of bifolding doors, patio doors and windows in the UK. Origin offer a vast number of products that suit any property whether it is a replacement of an existing door or window or a new build extension.

Create your dream home with Glazed Windows and Doors Limited call us to arrange a free quotation 0118 405 0186 sales@glazedwindowsanddoors.co.uk www.glazedwindowsanddoors.co.uk

Joyful Crafts Holme Grange Craft Village is a hidden gem in the heart of the countryside, just minutes from the vibrant town of Wokingham, offering a unique shopping experience. With independent traders and artisan crafters working in a collection of converted barns, visitors can browse in a relaxed environment. Offering a wide range of products, as well as numerous workshops and classes, there is also a fabulous coffee house in an historic barn opening onto a beautiful enclosed courtyard where you can sit and relax while you enjoy your refreshment.

With activities to keep the kids entertained and special events running throughout the year, Holme Grange really is a ‘destination’ waiting to be discovered.

So who are the artisan crafters, independent traders and entrepreneurs that have such ‘Joyful Crafts’ to showcase?

Sheona is owner of Sewisfaction. Here is her story...

My Nan was a professional seamstress and taught me to sew as a child. But it was only as an adult I realised the happiness a handmade wardrobe can bring.

No longer do I trek around the High Street, or have to moan that things don’t fit me properly; now I have clothes made to my style, just the right size and from amazing fabrics that will last much longer. Add that to the massive sense of achievement from making something yourself and I want to share the feeling of Sewisfaction with as many people as possible! Over the years sustainable fashion has also become more important to me. I am passionate about helping people learn how to sew and repair their own clothes and sourcing sustainable fabrics.

I firmly believe that sewing is a superpower. It can empower you, give you a huge sense of achievement and is brilliant for your well being.

I am passionate about helping everyone unleash their superpower with fun, friendly classes and beautiful fabrics! As well as teaching, running our social media and the million other tasks that come with owning a small business, I try and fit in some sewing when I can! Sewisfaction is able to share that passion with children and adults across the world. www.sewisfaction.co.uk 22

WOKINGHAM LOCAL • MARCH 2022

My name is Gayle Sparks. I am so lucky to be the owner of Enchanting Glass Designs. I am the designer, creator and glass artist that can make the most stunning pieces of art, whilst also being extremely passionate about teaching the art of fused glass.

I started working with glass some 14+ years ago. Originally I was a paper crafter who made handmade cards and keepsakes.

It was with this craft that I attended a fused glass course and became addicted to glass. Fused glass is such fun to work with, very versatile, extremely tactile, and therapeutic; I found my therapy in the world of glass, it comes in many different forms and every colour of the rainbow and many other designs of mixed colours which makes the creating process so exciting as the choice is endless for any design and creation.

My first creations in glass were pendants for jewellery, coasters and small pictures but very quickly I had made so much I could never wear or use them all so I branched out and started to give pieces away to friends and family as I became more happy and confident with the quality of my creations, this gave me so much confidence that I wanted to learn more and started to dream about becoming an artist full time.

I continued to learn and grow finding different techniques which gave me the experience to start selling my products at craft fairs.

This enabled me to expand and buy more glass and then my first two kilns which catered for different sized items. I now have 5 kilns in total and now my dream has become a reality and I live and breathe it every single day through my shop and studio at Holme Grange Craft Village. www.https://enchanting-glass-designs.co.uk/

Also at Holme Grange Craft Village...

Pottery Pals is the perfect treat for the whole family. Regardless of age or artistic ability, you can design and create something unique to treasure forever. The team are always on hand to help. www.https://potterypals.co.uk/

WOKINGHAM LOCAL • MARCH 2022

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Other delights in store...

If you feel like a trip down memory lane or you’d like a sweet treat, adults and children alike are welcome in The Sweet Cabin. http://www.thesweetcabin.co.uk/ Also if you are looking for a pop up sweet stall, they attend local corporate offices, family fun days, food festivals, music festivals, school fetes, wedding venues and family events.

Holme Grange Craft Village prides itself on its unique and eclectic collection of shops and businesses. All independent traders who also live within the local community, offer excellent customer service as well as a product selection that is second to none. The units offer constantly changing stock so there is always something new to discover as well as services including a beauty salon, yoga studio and hairdressers for a touch of pampering and relaxation, a bespoke jewellers, a dog grooming salon, an aquatic shop and beautiful products from Berkshire rugs and the Grange interiors. A florists, boutique clothes shop, book shop, and dressmakers are all thriving businesses, and whilst the kids are enjoying the parties at Brickies lego club, the adults can do some serious ‘tasting’ of beers, wine and gin at the outdoor seating in the Tasting Barn’s outdoor area. Well, that should be enough to work up an appetite so the Chocolate cafe is on hand with an array of breakfasts, lunches and snacks and yes, of course... chocolate desserts.

Visit us at: Holme Grange Craft Village, Heathlands Road, Wokingham RG40 3AW 0118 977 6715 enquiries@holmegrangecraftvillage.co.uk https://holmegrangecraftvillage.co.uk/ Open 7 days a week, 10am - 5pm. Please check individual businesses for their opening days & times.

Plenty of free parking. Toilets, disabled & baby changing facilities all available.

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WOKINGHAM LOCAL • MARCH 2022

Dark Chocolate

Raspberry Parfait Serves 16. Perfect for a party!

Ingredients

Method

For the base:

Butter tin and line baking paper around the edge and bottom of cake tin.

• 300g Digestive biscuits • 50g Butter

For the parfait: • 250g Egg yolk • 1 ½ pint Double cream • 450g 60 % dark Belgium chocolate • 150g Raspberry Coulis • 200g Caster Sugar

Equipment needed: 10” tin loose bottom or ringed deep cake tin Baking Paper Saucepans

Crush the digestive biscuits. Melt butter in a saucepan, take off heat and mix into digestive biscuits. Spoon biscuit mixture into tin, press down with metal spoon and set aside.

Whisk egg yolks. In a separate saucepan mix caster sugar with tiny bit of cold water and boil on a low heat stirring all the time until mixture is a thick consistency, careful not to boil or burn the sugar. Add the whisked egg yolk into pan with sugar. Put aside in a bowl to cool down for 20 minutes.

Melt 300g dark chocolate in a bain-marie, until just soft, again careful to not over heat chocolate. Stir until a smooth consistency.

Whisk the double cream and add to the cooled egg yolk and sugar.

Into this mixture add the melted chocolate and raspberry coulis.

Stir well. Pour on top of biscuit base. Put into fridge to set for 2 hours.

Melt 150g dark chocolate with hot water to make a chocolate ganache (this should be a thick consistency). Pour the ganache on top of the cake and decorate with fresh or dried raspberries.

https://chocolatecafewokingham.co.uk/ HOLME GRANGE CRAFT VILLAGE, UNIT 6 HOLME GRANGE FARM, HEATHLANDS ROAD RG40 3AW

WOKINGHAM LOCAL • MARCH 2022

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Wokingham’s latest destination dining pub

Guests are invited to enjoy our informal dining room, quirky garden spaces or sink into the leather clad tub chairs in our bar area, but most of all – to enjoy our great quality menu, simply prepared.

Dogs are very welcome in the bar and ample car parking is available.

Our relaxed and welcoming bar is the perfect local spot to enjoy a mid-week tipple or a weekend night out with friends where you can choose from an extensive range of wines, beers, cask ales, cocktails as well as lo and no alcohol drinks.

Join us for set lunch menu Monday – Friday (£18 for two courses, £21 for three courses), seasonal a la carte menu every evening and all-day Saturday or an ultimate roast on Sunday!

greyhoundfinchampstead.co.uk 0118 216 1334 info@greyhoundfinchampstead.co.uk

Have you checked out our farm shop and coffee house next door to The Greyhound, Finchampstead.

Pop in, have a browse and pick up some incredible fresh and seasonal produce.

We have a selection of British charcuterie, cheeses, bread, preserves, and everything your pantry needs.

We also stock perfume, handmade soap, flowers, and a range of bee’s wax products.

And if you manage to work up a bit of a thirst we have a great range of hot drinks, juices, local beers and English wines...

Visit us

goswellandbirds.co.uk info@goswellandbirds.co.uk

Five Minutes With: Charlie Bigham ‘’Business should be a force for good!’’

Charlie Bigham set up shop back in 1996 with the sole aim of creating really delicious dishes for foodies. Jacqui Priestley, owner and editor of Wokingham Local spends ‘’5 mins with Charlie Bigham’’.

WL: Thank you for your time Charlie and welcome to Wokingham Local. So, can I ask first of all, did you enjoy cooking from an early age?

CB: Well, I was about 13 or 14 when I started to cook.

WL: Did you have an ambition to become a famous chef and do you have an ambition to be a celebrity chef now?

CB: I had no ambition to be a chef, and celebrity chefs had not been invented yet. I describe myself as a cook, rather than a chef. Chefs in restaurants are true professionals to get their different dishes out all at the same time, and hats off to them!

WL: Our special feature is entitled ‘Tastes of the World’, what did you learn and gain from the experience of traveling around the World?

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CB: I have been very fortunate to do lots of traveling and I learnt a lot about food.

What I feel about food in the UK is that we have such diversity from everywhere else in the World because we are so open to ideas from other countries and to incorporating them into our own recipes, so there isn’t just one style of British cooking, and that is replicated in our extensive range of foods.

WL: What gave you the initial idea to start a company selling freshly prepared meals?

CB: Well I needed a job, and I like to work for myself, as I was never very good at working for someone else, and I guess I just thought I would take a ‘punt’. My thinking was that there must be more people like me out there, leading busy lives, and occasionally thinking I love cooking, but WOKINGHAM LOCAL • MARCH 2022

could just do with a night off whilst not compromising from eating good quality food.

The only real option at that time was the frozen ready meal and I feel life is too short to resort to eating cheap meals from a microwave.

WL: Do you consider your meals to be expensive, and are they therefore targeted at ‘posh’ people?

CB: No, they are amazing value for money, and are enjoyed by all types of people up and down the Country, and we gauge this from the consumer research we do. For example, in comparison to a Domino’s pizza, we are cheaper, better quality and we really leave them for dust! So, we are not about posh people, we are about everyday food appealing to a broad cross section of people and providing brilliant value for money.

WL: What is your all time favorite recipe from your range?

CB: I think as a dish that most people like, as do I, our lasagne is a brilliant dish, and very well executed. Some may think it old-fashioned but it is an amazing lasagne, made with the best of quality ingredients.

WOKINGHAM LOCAL • MARCH 2022

WL: When you are entertaining at home, what dish do you cook to impress?

CB: I love cooking and I am something of an inventive cook and I like to challenge myself, and I practically never make the same dish twice. I do love middle eastern food, partly because it is so sociable with the sharing aspect, and a nice relaxed way of eating.

WL: You have sites in London and Wells, and plans for development, to what do you attribute your success, in an industry saturated by similar products?

CB: Well, I don’t believe there are similar products, I think we are quite different and that’s why people buy our products. Other companies look to make their products cheaper, whereas we focus on making our meals better, and that is the difference.

As consumers I feel we are all becoming more considered food purchasers, as we are now more aware that the food we eat has an impact on our lives, and even our mental health, and also the effect that food production has on the planet, and we are a very considered food producer.

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WL: Talking of food production and the effects it has, I believe you are a B Corp registered and certified business, and did it take quite some time and effort to gain that certification?

CB: B Corp registration is still quite new for the UK, and what it means is that you sign up to do three things basically, focusing on Profit, People, and Planet. So, all businesses need to make a profit, of course, and then looking after your people and also looking after the planet.

All of those things we were already doing, so, we really went through the process as a means of being assessed externally and to see how we could become better, faster.

WL: What is the single best piece of advice anyone has ever given you?

CB: Maybe to listen! To listen to our consumers, especially if we have done something wrong, and have their feedback. It is gold dust to us when someone tells us where we went wrong because it gives us an opportunity to put it right.

Plus, we have a big team now and now it is important to listen to them. They all have their areas of expertise and know those better than I do, so it is important not just to talk, but to listen to them.

WL: What is the most inspirational thing that has happened to you recently?

CB: I have actually been immensely inspired by how all the world has coped through the pandemic and how adaptable we all are.

In particular, my team, they can’t work from home and their loyalty and bravery really, especially in the early days of the pandemic when they were frightened, and yet came into work every day showing huge commitment and I am very grateful to the whole team for keeping the show on the road through some very challenging times. We do care about our teams and we work well with them, and do try our best to look after them, and we challenge ourselves constantly to do even better.

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The Food Production Campus, Dulcote, Wells

WL: If you could sum up what you stand for in one phrase, what would that be?

CB: In business, really I stand for two things.

Firstly, we stand for delicious food, and secondly doing business in a better way and because business should be a force for good. So in the making of that delicious food we are always searching for a better way.

We’ve created what we’re calling a Food Production Campus (well, it is rather grand) in a former quarry in Dulcote, near Wells. We make some of our best-selling dishes here including our Fish Pie and Chicken Tikka Masala. Surrounded by the birds and the bees, we’re excited to make food in such a glorious location.

hello@bighams.com www.bighams.com WOKINGHAM LOCAL • MARCH 2022

Tea has long been a British institution but most of us are hooked on lifeless boil-inthe-bag brews – missing out on the quality and amazing oriental flavours found in the dozens of varieties of loose-leaf tea.

‘’Tea - a very British institution’’ Before the advent of the tea bag in New York in 1908, loose-leaf tea was widely consumed and making the perfect pot was a ritual. Tea was a precious commodity traded between East and West and played an important role in the history of the British Empire.

Happy Larder Co. was founded in 2019 with a mission to bring back the ritual and once more increase access to the myriad flavours offered by tea varieties, from spicy Chai to smoky Russian Caravan, named after the 18th century camel caravans that trekked the six-thousand mile tea

route via Russia. Or perhaps you’d prefer a refreshing peppermint from the rolling hills of Malawi, or a delightfully delicate Silver Needle white tea from the Fujian Province, China? So many choices!

Happy Larder Co. was founded by Leanne Duffield - an Australian based in the UK - who didn’t even drink tea until she married an Englishman. Now she has her very own specialty tea company! They also happen to be a brand with a big social conscience, working with charities like Berkshire Women’s Aid to support female survivors of domestic abuse.

See their full range of sustainably sourced, speciality tea & teawares at www.happylarder.co.uk.

WOKINGHAM LOCAL • MARCH 2022

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Bombay Story has a Dabba to go service that is the talk of the town.

WHERE IT ALL STARTED ‘Dabbawalla” literally translates to ‘one who carries a box’. Beginning with one man named Mahadeo in 1890, a successful lunch delivery service has been used across India offering homecooked meals for the masses, delivered in tiffin’s or ‘dabbas’.

THE HUSTLE & BUSTLE Fast forward to 2020, and our passion to deliver quality, delicious home-cooked meals to the home, work-place or in our restaurant still remains. However, we promise that although our restaurant has a vibrant café feel, with open kitchen, you will receive a more relaxed dining experience. You might spot a ‘dawa’, or two, but they will not be balanced precariously.

THE DIFFERENCE Our aim is for all guests to be greeted with warm, open arms. We welcome you into our beautiful restaurant where you will be transported to a ‘whole new world’ of Indian cooking. Every detail has been considered by our experienced management team and award-winning chefs. We can’t wait to meet you.

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WOKINGHAM LOCAL • MARCH 2022

WOKINGHAM LOCAL • MARCH 2022

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HOLI

THE WORLD’S MOST COLOURFUL FESTIVAL - 18TH MARCH Holi is mostly celebrated by Hindus in India and Nepal, but the colourful festival is popular worldwide with many non Hindus choosing to take part too. As well as marking the start of spring, Holi is also known as “The festival of love” and celebrates fertility and colour. Holi is a national holiday in India and Nepal with regional holidays in other countries.

The origins of Holi come from a mix of Hindu mythology including the popular legend of Hiranyakashyap - a demon king who wanted to be immortal. He wanted everyone to worship him as god but his own son, Prahlada, chose to worshipped Vishnu instead, which offended his father. One day the demon king asked his sister Holika, who had a magic shawl that could not catch fire, to sit on a raging fire with Prahlada in her lap. As the fire burned the shawl flew from the

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Holika’s shoulders onto Prahalada and she perished while he survived. The god Vishnu, impressed by Prahalada’s devotion, then appeared and killed the demon king, Hiranyakashyap.

Another Hindi legend remembered over Holi is the tale of Lord Shiva and Kaamadeva. It is believed Kaamadeva, the god of passion, woke Shiva from his deep meditation so he could save the world.

In some parts of India, Holi is also considered a New Year’s celebration. The festival arrives on day after the full moon of the Hindu lunar month of Phagan. The holiday is observed all over India and celebrates the harvest of the winter crops as it welcomes the beginning of Spring.

The celebration has become so popular, in fact, that Holi as even been appropriated by a new generation of westerners with the traditional “throwing of colours” at new age music festivals.

WOKINGHAM LOCAL • MARCH 2022

No matter which part of the world the festivals happen, they are guaranteed to be feasts of colour and usually involve sprinkling coloured waters and brightly coloured powders on other revellers.

Balloons filled with coloured waters are also splashed on friends and anyone else who happens to be nearby! Pichkari, plastic, metal or even bamboo tubes filled with colours are used to share the colours of the holiday. Beautifully coloured clothes are also worn in dances and other festivities.

Many areas celebrate with huge bonfires that have different meanings depending on the local legends that are the basis for the holiday. Along with traditional Holi recipes, such as malapuas, sweets are also a special part of Holi.

If you can imagine a holiday that combines Thanksgiving, Carnival and Valentine’s Day with the colours of Easter - but where people get coloured instead of receiving eggs - you have some idea of why this holiday is so eagerly awaited.

Gulab Thandai A refreshing drink popular at Holi.

Ingredients • 1 tbsp watermelon seeds • 12 almonds • 1 tsp fennel seeds • 15 black peppercorns • 4 green cardamon • 2 tsp dry rose petals • 3 dates • 2 tsp raisins • 1 tbsp rose water • 1 1/4 cups milk • 1/2 cup water

Method oak the dates in milk, enough to cover them, and the rose S petals in rose water. Soak all the other dry ingredients in water, seperately for a couple of hours. Peel the almonds, drain the water from the watermelon seeds and add these to a grinder or blender. Add all the other ingredients including the liquid, and mix to a fine paste. Add 1/4 cup of water and mix well, then pour this through a fine sieve. Add 1 cup of chilled milk and serve over ice.

Recipe sent in by Ruchi, ‘Tangy Treat Kitchen’.

WOKINGHAM LOCAL • MARCH 2022

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Malapua

Malapua, sometimes shortened to pua, is a pancake served as a dessert or a snack originating from the Indian subcontinent, popular in India, Nepal and Bangladesh.

Ingredients

Method

• 3 tbsp Ghee • 1 Cup Milk • 3/4 Cup Sugar • 1 Cup Wholewheat flour • 1/4 Cup Semolina flour • 1 tbsp Malai (Clotted cream) or other cream • 2 tsp Fennel seeds lightly crushed

Heat Milk, and add sugar. Keep aside to let it come to room temprature.

Once the milk is cool, add the wholewheat flour (a plain flour), semolina, malai , and fennel seeds.

Mix well to make a thick batter. Add more flour or milk if the consistency needs to be adjusted.

Heat ghee in a pan. Turn the heat to medium. Add a ladle full of batter, and let one side cook for 2-3 minutes.

Turn over and fry another side.

Fry all the malpuas. You can cool and store them wrapped in a foil in the fridge. These will keep good for a week.

If serving hot, garnish these with fennel seeds, pistachios or almonds, and serve, dipped in sugar syrup.

Recipe sent in by Ruchika Garg of Ruchika’s Kitchen.

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WOKINGHAM LOCAL • MARCH 2022

Hi, my name is Geeta, known as Mrs B (Mrs B Cooks) and I began my food blog journey (@thelazyindian_official) on Instagram at the start of the pandemic in April 2020 to adapt to the ‘new norm’ we were all experiencing, as I was busy making homemade delicious Indian food from my kitchen.

Everyone knows that Indian food is rich in flavour and delicious, however, there was a perception that these tasty dishes can be heavy to digest.

I wanted to change this view, whilst keeping the rich flavours in my dishes. I developed frozen takeaway curry tubs with recipes that didn’t have the heaviness of what you find in restaurants and supermarkets. This is authentic homemade Indian takeaway.

this simply fully defrost the tub, then pour the curry into a pan and heat up slowly for approximately 15 minutes.

Since selling these curry tubs, I have received a huge response in orders from areas around Wokingham Borough which has given me the confidence to expand, and I now deliver nationally.

I wish to say a big thank you to all my customers in Wokingham.

Yes! 100% homemade from my kitchen in Shinfield, Berkshire. These traditional dishes are North Indian recipes, which celebrate my heritage.

The frozen curry tubs are a great addition to your freezer meals. All curries are frozen on the day of cooking to trap the freshness in them. To enjoy WOKINGHAM LOCAL • MARCH 2022

www.mrsbcooks.com 37

CleverChefs WIN 5 MILLION POUND CONTRACT AT DINTON PASTURES COUNTRY PARK

Dinton Pastures Country Park is based within 335 acres of meadows, woodland, lakes and rivers nestled between Reading and Wokingham. Owned and operated

by Wokingham Borough Council, the park attracts thousands of visitors every year to enjoy the countryside. The park hosts an award winning adventure play area, a high quality café, an activity centre and a range of events.

Nick Collins, owner of contract catering company Cleverchefs recently announced that and he was delighted and excited to share the news that Cleverchefs have been awarded the 5 year deal at Dinton Pastures country park to run the catering operation at 3 locations throughout the park.

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‘’Dinton park has some absolutely stunning lake walks, children’s parks and trails with a brand new activity centre that has climbing walls and so much more. We have been walking around the beautiful Dinton pastures country park in Wokingham and meeting with our Cleverchefs team, ready to start our detailed mobilisation plan for our ‘go live’ in April.’’

“Cleverchefs love winning business in beautiful spaces such as this, with people finding passion for walking again and having days out in spaces like these. It’s the perfect place to offer our exceptional food and coffee. We have some really exciting plans to implement at Dinton Pastures and we are excited to give it that Cleverchefs brand identity.’’

The launch is planned for April.

WOKINGHAM LOCAL • MARCH 2022

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Tastiest Wonders of the Food World Seafood Paella, Spain One mouthful of a steamy bowl of paella and you’ll be on a beach in Spain - such is the power of this seafood extravaganza.

Pastel de Nata, Portugal Legend has it that Portuguese nuns and monks first conjured up these sinfully delicious custard tarts.

Som Tam, Thailand Thailand’s famous fiery papaya salad features garlic and chillies alongside string beans and peanuts.

Chicken Parm, Australia Australian pubs have made this Italian dish their own - the combination of melted Parmesan and tomato on chicken fillet is irresistible.

Butter Garlic Crab, India In this amazing Indian dish, cooked crab is kept simple, drizzled in mouthwatering butter-garlic sauce.

Kebab, Turkey Meat or seafood mixed with vegetables on a skewer - what could be better?

Fish ‘n’ Chips, UK One of Britain’s favorite dishes dates back to the 1860s - crispy fried cod or haddock is paired with chunky chips. A Friday dinnertime special across the UK.

WOKINGHAM LOCAL • MARCH 2022

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Italian dining in Wokingham doesn’t get much finer than Ruchetta. This is a gorgeous, award-winning spot with roots in Calabria, southern Italy itself, and it’s led by chef and owner Angelo Colao. Angelo and his team create charming mouth-watering Italian dishes full of flavour, using only the finest seasonal and local ingredients, meaning the Ruchetta menu goes way beyond the norm in terms of what you might expect from an Italian restaurant in the UK. You’ll find Ruchetta on Rose Street right in the heart of Wokingham, just next to Waitrose. Advanced reservations are definitely a good idea.

Located in the heart of Wokingham, we offer fine Italian dining, exceptional service, a charming restaurant and exquisite food we look forward to welcoming you! Buon appetito, Angelo.

6 Rose Street, Wokingham, Berkshire, RG40 1XU 0118 978 8025 angelo@ruchetta.com www.ruchetta.com 40

WOKINGHAM LOCAL • MARCH 2022

At Ruchetta we like to bring you innovative fine Italian cuisine whether you are lunching with the Day Time Menu or enjoying the evening A La Carte dining. We like to change our menus on a regular basis ensuring we use the freshest ingredients to bring you the best seasonal produce all year round.

Please do make sure to ask about our ‘Seasonal Specials’ available every week!

What’s on the menu?

Seasonal starters and perfect pasta dishes are all available, or perhaps you could sample such Calabrian delights as Grigliata Mista – a truly shining example of grilled mix fish, king prawns & scallops, served with mixed salad leaves, lemon aioli, & apple & celeric coleslaw.

Roasted Monk Fish with martini, cream sauce, wild chantarelles, & braised leeks.

Merluzzo cod fillet wrapped in Parma ham, clams, white wine, garlic & parsley sauce, & sauteed garlic spinach, or an aged ribeye steak, pan-fried in olive oil & butter with rosemary, garlic & thyme, served with porcini mushrooms, tender stem broccoli & a brandy cream sauce.

Amazing deserts include gelati and sorbetti, plus everything from the classic tiramisu, Sicilian cannolo & vanilla pannacotta with cooked pear in red wine to delicious moist orange cake with citrus mascarpone cream.

Angelo will be happy to recommend the finest of wines to accompany your meal from our well stocked wine cellar.

“Angelo and his team made us feel very welcome! We had the best experience and our taste buds received a wonderful selection of hand picked truffles and porcini mushrooms, delicious sauces and deserts that were mouth-watering.”

WOKINGHAM LOCAL • MARCH 2022

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WOKINGHAM LOCAL • MARCH 2022

SUSTAINABILITY WHY BUY LOCAL? KEEP YOUR MONEY WHERE YOUR HEART LIVES, SUPPORT AN ECONOMY OF FRIENDS AND NEIGHBOURS, AND BUILD A COMMUNITY THAT THRIVES BY THINKING LOCAL FIRST.

Small-scale, locally owned businesses create communities that are more prosperous, connected, and generally better-off across a wide range of metrics. When we buy from independent, locally owned businesses, rather than national chains, a significantly greater portion of our money is then cycled back through our local economy - to make purchases from our friends’ businesses and to aid our neighbours in need - ultimately strengthening the base of our whole community.

KEEPS OUR WOKINGHAM COMMUNITY UNIQUE

One-of-a-kind businesses are an integral part of the distinct character of our Town. It’s what distinguishes the uniqueness of our community.

REDUCES ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS

With more local businesses there are 26 percent less car miles undertaken. Locally owned businesses make more local purchases, requiring less transportation, and which generally means less congestion, less habitat loss, and less pollution.

WOKINGHAM LOCAL • MARCH 2022

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SUSTAINABILITY WHY BUY LOCAL? KEEP YOUR MONEY WHERE YOUR HEART LIVES, SUPPORT AN ECONOMY CREATES MOREAND NEIGHBOURS, OF FRIENDS LOCAL OWNERSHIP AND BUILD & GOOD JOBSA COMMUNITY THAT THRIVES BY THINKING LOCAL FIRST. Small local businesses in our Wokingham community provide the most jobs to residents of the Borough.

Let’s encourage more start-ups!

GIVES BETTER SERVICE

Local businesses often hire people with a better understanding of the products they are selling and take more time to get to know their clients, customers, and patrons.

INVESTS IN COMMUNITY - £68 REMAINS HERE

For every £100 spent at a locally owned business, £68 recirculates and remains in our local economy.

Only £43 remains in our community when it’s spent at a national chain.

Wokingham Local businesses are owned by your friends and neighbours who live in this community, are less likely to leave, and are more invested in our community’s future -

Just like you!

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WOKINGHAM LOCAL • MARCH 2022

And Relax...

Relaxation at the end of a yoga class is a fundamental part of the yoga, and I see that this resonates with all the people that attend my classes.

To the uninitiated, it may at first seem a bit weird but once they engage in the process, it becomes a real game changer, as it was with my first yoga class.

We call this practice of release or letting go ‘yoga nidra’ or yoga sleep, where the objective is to set the body to sleep but maintain a focussed mind.

Other terms used are savasana which translates to corpse pose, the most common position in yoga classes for the process. Occasionally, people will drop off into a slumber, this is ok, it’s actually quite nice as well, but if we can stay focussed on the cues the yoga teacher provides, or following the breath, a deeper sense of release will be possible.

For some, savasana is the best kind of calm.

But when you’ve sandwiched a sweaty vinyasa session into an overloaded schedule, stopping to put on socks and a jumper, turn down the lights and find a corner can feel like a distraction however perhaps we may just need that time lying on the mat and doing nothing.

The word savasana in Sanskrit comes from two words: ‘shava’ meaning corpse and ‘asana’ which means seat or posture.

Ancient yoga texts state that lying like a corpse ‘removes the fatigue caused by other asanas and induces calmness of mind.’

In the pose, your jaw, tongue, eyelids, pupils, spine, arms legs, fingers, and toes – your entire body, in fact – should all be relaxed as you focus on breathing with the aim of promoting a meditative state.

This calming of the nervous system helps mitigate the ‘fight or flight response’, stimulating the parasympathetic nervous system, helping with digestion and immunity, to releasing lactic acid build-up after a yoga class, savasana has both short and long-term benefits. Most importantly, WOKINGHAM LOCAL • MARCH 2022

in savasana, we allow breath to flow without obstruction or restraint, expelling old, spent oxygen and drawing in new supplies of revitalising breath, known as prana or life-force, is the best way to re-energise ourselves.

Savasana’s proximity to the ground is no coincidence either. We find that when we release tension and let go, ‘give in to gravity’ this creates a sense of calmness and the body really feels grounded, almost like you are being pulled into the mat helping to let go of things that are occupying our mind space, this body-mind connection makes the pose so meaningful.

Some people find that lying on the back is not comfortable so we can modify this relaxation by taking a seated meditation or ‘legs up the wall’, whatever allows a few minutes of comfortable stillness.

The yoga teacher will take the class through savasana, explaining the process, for some it is the best part of the yoga practice.

I encourage everyone to engage and see for themselves how good this feels...

Richard Facebook - richard’s yoga www.richardsyoga.org 45

Put the GLOW back into aging skin There are times when we are all faced with the challenge of dull, flaky, or uneven skin. Especially when we are exposed to environmental pollutants, have allergies, or due to chronic stress. Luckily there is one thing you can do that will really make a difference: exfoliate! So why do we lose that youthful, natural glow as we age? Our natural cell-turnover process slows down and this causes dulling dead skin cells to cling to our skin’s surface for longer. A good exfoliator will remove the dry, dull debris from our skin, revealing softer, smoother skin underneath.

You will instantly feel a difference.

Another component of exfoliation is that it helps targeted treatments and products penetrate the skin. Without a good exfoliator regime, your skin can become congested and this can lead to breakouts.

Your skin will be able to absorb moisturisers a lot better which means your skin will be more hydrated.

When skin is moisturised, it also reflects light, making it instantly appear more glowing. One important consideration to remember is that exfoliants can make your skin more vulnerable to sun damage and dark spots. For this reason, always remember to apply a good sunscreen as part of your morning routine. If dull skin is getting you down, it is also important to make sure your skincare range includes some brightening ingredients.

Vitamin C: The Biolumin Vit C range from Dermalogica is one good example of this.

Vitamin C on your skin acts as an antioxidant that brightens skin by blocking an enzyme that produces pigmentation.

Peels & DIY Face Mask: If you are looking for fast results a Dermalogica Pro Peel treatment can be very effective followed by a targeted face mask.

Here is a DIY face mask recipe by celebrity facialist, Joanna Vargas, in New York City. It’s soothing and tightens pores,” she says. “If you want extra exfoliation, add two tablespoons of almond powder and scrub the formula onto the skin before leaving it on as a mask – your skin will be glowing!”

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1/2 cup yogurt, 1/2 cup mashed strawberry, 1/4 cup honey.

Mix all ingredients together in a bowl.

Apply to face and neck, avoiding the eye area.

Leave on for five minutes, then rinse.

Massage: Use your fingers or a face roller or a flat gua sha tool. Using a facial massage roller has a positive effect on skin blood flow, which may help improve the appearance of your skin.

One of the main benefits of facial massage is its ability to improve the overall appearance of your skin. Follow up a facial massage with any products that help improve your skin’s condition. For beautiful, glowing skin, stay healthy by giving yourself plenty of time to rest and relax, following a healthy diet, and being active.

Hydrate & eat anti-oxidant rich foods: If a sustainable glow is what you are after it is important to approach your skin holistically. Remember to include antioxidant-rich foods in your diet. Examples include blueberries, pecan nuts, strawberries, artichokes, raspberries, kale, red cabbage, beans, beets, and spinach. Proper hydration is also directly related to cell regeneration. Aim for 8-10 cups of filtered water each day. Adding some lemon juice or lemon slices can also be beneficial.

Sleep: Did you know your skin makes new collagen when you sleep, which prevents sagging?

Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep every night.

I am seeing the best results when clients commit to a long-term treatment plan and schedule regular facials or peels. Regular treatments combined with a solid home-care routine will ensure a good return on any investment you make in your skin. Every skin is unique and it is our ability to structure a bespoke treatment plan for your skin that sets us apart.

Authors, Luann and Dr Jaco Van der Merwe of Elan Aesthetics. www.elanaesthetics.co.uk WOKINGHAM LOCAL • MARCH 2022

A Boutique Aesthetic Clinic in Wokingham, specialising in non-surgical treatments as well as the development of leading, results-driven aesthetic products and advanced skincare techniques. Élan Aesthetics was founded by Dr Jaco and Luann van der Merwe in 2019 in Wokingham.

At the Élan Aesthetics Clinic, a safe haven for high-tech skin treatments for varying requirements of the skin, we focus on offering bespoke treatments in a luxury setting. Client satisfaction and safety are at the heart of our ethos. Sourcing high-quality, industry-regulated products, the hygiene of our clinic, and our ongoing learning culture help us achieve this.

“If I could have a superpower, it would be to let people relax, release and rebalance instantly.”

- Luann van der Merwe (Female Founder, Skincare Trailblazer, Skin Health Expert) ‘’I bring over 25 years of dental surgery experience and all treatments are conducted in a medical setting with supporting equipment and facilities. Patient safety is at the heart of our ethos. We, therefore, provide extensive consultation, informed consent, high-quality products, and thorough post-procedure care.’’

- Dr. Jaco van der Merwe

STOP BY, RELAX AND ENJOY 8 Cumberland Way, Woosehill, Wokingham RG41 3AY luann@elanaesthetics.co.uk | jaco@elanaesthetics.co.uk | +44 7768 778362 | https://www.elanaesthetics.co.uk/

The science behind naturally rejuvenated, glowing skin

Change Your Skin – Change Your Life We know how our skin looks and feels can affect our self-image and self-confidence and can have a negative impact on how we live our lives and see ourselves in the mirror.

That is why at Andresa we offer the most up-to-date technology and science for non-surgical skin care and rejuvenation to ensure your skin glows with great results.

Having been described as West Berkshire’s best kept secret, Andresa has the technology and ‘firepower’ of any top London Aesthetic clinic. But what makes us different to the rest is that we never use toxins or fillers and our clients love us for it.

Latest developments in skin care We monitor all the latest developments in skin care across the world to ensure we are providing you with the best treatments and products on the market to rejuvenate ageing skin to treat a variety of skin conditions including acne, rosacea and acne scarring.

JUST ARRIVED - The new ‘multi-layer’ non-surgical lunchtime facelift This award-winning anti-ageing treatment improves and removes age-related skin imperfections including wrinkles, fine lines, uneven skin tone and skin laxity by improving elasticity, texture, reducing pore size and strengthening the skin’s natural defence against future ageing.

Start your skin confidence journey We are here to advise and help you. Join us on this wonderful journey to regain your skin confidence. Call 01635 800183 to book your free consultation.

Author Theresa Fleetwood, Founder of Andresa Aesthetics – Andresa.co.uk

The Lunchtime Facelift

Berkshire's Exclusive Skin Health & Laser Clinic

LASER HAIR REMOVAL REINVENTED Say goodbye to shaving and waxing Say hello to soft, satin smooth skin The NEW Alma Soprano Titanium is the fastest & most comfortable laser hair removal treatment available today

Feel fabulous fast Removes unwanted hair from any part of the face & body in minutes Clinically proven technology Fast lunchbreak treatment Safe on dark and tanned skin Pain-free Available all year round For men and women

Andresa Aesthetics Exclusive Skin Health and Laser Clinic info@andresa.co.uk www.andresa.co.uk Tel: 01635 800183 Lower Wasing Barn, Wasing Lane, Nr Woolhampton RG7 4LY

Call 0118 978 8111 or book online at www.theretreat-wokingham.co.uk @theretreatwokingham

@theretreat23

@retreatsalon23

Ali lost over 5 Stone in lockdown 1.0, it’s still off!

Ali, 43, Arborfield, went from a size 18 to a size 8 thanks to The 1:1 Diet by Cambridge Weight Plan.

After piling on the pounds over the years, she changed her life with the meal replacement diet.

Maintaining since summer 2020, she knows the balance of being healthier and happier!

‘My clients are achieving fantastic results with my friendly and non-judgmental approach’

Alison Fraser 07720 636434 ~ aliofraser@hotmail.com shine.with.ali Ali Fraser The 1:1 Diet by Cambridge Weight Plan Consultant

WOKINGHAM LOCAL • MARCH 2022

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EVERY WOKINGHAM MOM IS A

QUEEN

SUNDAY 27TH MARCH

Mother’s Day flowers, bouquets, floral arrangements & giftware ~ with delivery in the local area beautyinblooms.co.uk Tel: 01189 344420 7 London Road, Twyford, RG10 9EGH

The Perfect Mother’s Day Treat 5 Central Walk, Wokingham

WOKINGHAM LOCAL • MARCH 2022

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BUCKINGHAM PALACE

GUIDED TOURS

Tickets have just been released for the popular Buckingham Palace Guided Tour in March and April.

Go behind closed doors in the company of an expert guide and tour the magnificent State Rooms when the Palace is not usually open to the public. See gilded ceilings and glittering chandeliers in rooms decorated with treasures from the Royal Collection.

You can also still book tickets for our Garden Guided Tours, running March - May.

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GUIDED TOUR FOR FAMILIES If you are visiting with kids, book one of our special tours designed for families and children. Our expert guide will take your little ones on a fun-filled tour that highlights stories about the Palace and how it is used by The Queen.

For further information and to book tours, please visit www.rct.uk The income from your ticket contributes directly to The Royal Collection Trust, a registered charity.

The aims of The Royal Collection Trust are the care and conservation of the Royal Collection, and the promotion of access and enjoyment through exhibitions, publications, loans and educational activities.

WOKINGHAM LOCAL • MARCH 2022

Est. 1969

Digital TV Aerial and Satellite Specialist • Freeview & Freesat • Sky service callouts & TV links • TV’s wall mounted • New & Extra Points • Repairs & Dish Alignments • Re-tunes, New TV set ups • Aerial Removals • Satellite for Foreign channels

At prices you can afford

0118 973 0252 or 07778 234 444 www.wokinghamaerials.tv