Wokingham Local Magazine Issue 7 June 2022

WOKINGHAM LOCAL JUNE 2022

WWW.WOKINGHAMLOCAL.CO.UK

Pick me up

I’M FREE!

TRAVEL HOME & AWAY WORK SMART ROYAL CELEBRATIONS

Dine Alfresco PEOPLE & PLACES

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WHAT’S ON? WHAT’S NEW?

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FOOD & DRINK

WHAT TURNS A HOUSE INTO A HOME...

YOUR HOME?

From quote to completion Matt did a professional, fantastic and very thorough job on redecorating our bedrooms and study. It was a huge job and required a fair amount of prep due to the state of the rooms.

The quote was broken down to make it easy to understand and he communicated with us throughout the job to ensure everything was done to what we needed.

He was always punctual, very considerate and courteous, clean and tidy.

We have rebooked him for more work.

The answer is, when you have an opportunity to reflect your personality in the décor. If you have just moved into a new house or apartment and are looking to make it yours even starting with just one room, then Matthew James Painting & Decorating would love to help you.

I am a fifth-generation painter & decorator, having set up my own company in 2019 in Wokingham. Now my company is not only a growing enterprise, but one which uses eco-friendly water-based paints. I am proud that my company is carbon-neutral, by arranging for thirty trees every month to be planted in projects all over the world.

Whether you need internal or external painting, wallpaper on a feature wall or kitchen cabinets refreshed with spray painting, my team and I would love to help. Why not give me a call, today?

07726 408830 Matthewjamesdecorating@gmail.com www.matthewjamesdecorating.co.uk

WELCOME... ...to our June issue.

The sun is shining, and what better way to end a busy day, or fill a lazy sunny afternoon over the weekend than to sit back, enjoy the view, chat with family and friends, with a chilled glass of your favourite tipple and let someone else do all the work whilst dining alfresco!

Doesn’t that sound like heaven? Well, Jamie at Brucan pubs tells us all about it when we catch up with him at the Greyhound in Finchampstead, and spend 5 minutes with...

Jamie Dobbin. He talks about having the confidence to ‘go it alone’ which is something that our small Wokingham local businesses are fmailiar with, which brings me to a new feature - Work Smart! A very interesting read from our accountant Joed as he talks about how ‘Cash is King’ in the minefield of business owners chasing up invoices and payments, and some advise that may be useful? We are looking to make Work Smart! a regular feature in future editions.

Royal Celebrations are abundant this month, starting with Holme Grange craft village and their Platinum Jubilee Party in the Paddock, raising a free glass of prosecco to her majesty, the Queen, whilst enjoying all the family fun of the day on Sunday June the 5th. Plus, plenty more happening throughout the month with Craft fairs and events, crafting, shopping and an amazing courtyard cafe. South Hill Park and Legoland have new adventures and magical worlds for us to explore. Then we have a major fashion event, from Anthony Blay, plus all the real life drama that is Royal Ascot race week, together with fabulous Italian dining for the whole family at Angelo’s Ruchetta restaurant. Oh yes, Angelo is again inviting us to join him and his team midweek with a lovely discount, just tear it out and take it along.

Home or Away? Where will you be travelling to this summer? We showcase Norfolk as a beautiful part of England, and I highlight my travels from North to South through Portugal, by train, which was an amazing experience.

Well, we do like to spread a little cheer where we can, and I think it will soon become prevelant that this is a very upbeat, cheerful and colourful edition of our magazine, as we have rainbows everywhere - we are extremely proud to be suporting Wokingham LGBTQ+ Pride event which takes place in July and the Pride organisers talk about what it means to them with their ‘Rainbows’ feature. Pride sponsors on the reverse of the pull out poster show their support, and the theme continues with British Recycled Plastic and their rainbow benches. We ask all our Wokingham local readers to join us in supporting Pride and display the rainbow poster in your windows, and as they say at the Lazy Frog, after all the partying and parading, have a nice rest and go visit them for a nice relaxing Thai massage.

Until our next ‘bumper’ mid Summer edition, with Matthew James and Grand Designs, it just leaves me to say enjoy the sun - and rainbows!

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, © 2022, 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.

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WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JUNE 2022

PARTYINTHEPADDOCK SUN 5TH JUNE 11AM TO 3PM

Heathlands Road, Wokingham RG40 3AW 0118 977 6715 enquiries@holmegrangecraftvillage.co.uk https://holmegrangecraftvillage.co.uk/

CONTENTS

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The Magical Forest Visiting LegoLand

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Royal Ascot Be part of the drama!

24

Escape to the Garden Embracing the outdoors

31

Rainbows LGBTQ+ Pride month

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British Recycled Plastics Flying the flag for Pride

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Five Minutes With: Jamie Dobbin, Brucan Pubs

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Peri Peri!

Getting saucy

42

Portugal by Train Adventures abroad

46

Norfolk Exploring England

48

Cash is King Business advice from Quentela Accounting

52

To Thrive or to Survive Posture by Richard ‘s Yoga

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WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JUNE 2022

Holme Grange Craft Village is a hidden gem in the heart of the countryside, 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.

Get Creative

Make jewellery, paint ceramics, fuse glass, learn to sew, Lego building, furniture painting and much more.

CAFÉ OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK Our large barn with its enclosed courtyard is a beautiful space in which to savour your refreshments and relax. Now with free Wifi.

Experience the Magic Aquatic Addiction

22 unique, independent businesses will surprise and delight with their diversity from Lala’s Boutique to interior design and wonderful pampering too!

The Craft Village’s very own aquarium, where you can discover aquatic and pond supplies, for the home and garden.

Craft Markets

10am - 3pm, on the following dates:

June 11th + 12th, July 9th + 10th, August 13th + 14th, September 10th & 11th, October 8th + 9th

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.

WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JUNE 2022

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THE

MAGICAL FOREST An enchanting new walk-through attraction known as The Magical Forest is set to capture children’s hearts and imaginations when it opens to guests during May. The LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort revealed a sneak peek of its new immersive experience which marks a new realm in the story of its multi-million pounds land, LEGO® MYTHICA: World of Mythical Creatures to Wokingham Local.

First look images taken from deep inside The Magical Forest transport guests to a mysterious woodland in the heart of LEGO MYTHICA which features a myriad of new weird and wonderful 10

creature models and incredible habitats built by the Resort’s expert Model Makers using over 80,000 LEGO® bricks. Model Maker Will Saunders (28) was on hand to apply the finishing touches adding the final LEGO Bricks to the vibrant LEGO Models and sprucing them up ahead of their unveiling to the public. The Project Manager for The Magical Forest James Armitage (37) tested the lights and effects for the immersive light tunnel at the entrance to the new attraction. The swirling vortex of dazzling lights offers a glimpse into how guests will start their adventure in this parallel universe, where LEGO creatures come to life using awesome Augmented Reality (AR) with surprises in store around every corner.

Fan-favourite, Bits & Bobs and the friendly baby Alicorn, will surprise guests as at the enchanted waterfall before they head deep in the heart of The Magical Forest. Guests can also expect to unearth secret LEGO habitats hidden beneath the undergrowth and foliage, but just beware for the giant Venus Fly Trap which can be a little snappy - especially when they first meet intrepid young explorers. The adventure hots up as first look imagery WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JUNE 2022

reveals how the habitat shifts from an enchanted forest to a landscape of lava where guests will come eye to eye with a group of Crystal Claw Crabs and a super-sized LEGO dragon egg, before braving the grand finale by entering the magnificent Lava Dragon’s cave, who is stirring inside.

Helen Bull, Divisional Director at LEGOLAND Windsor Resort, said: “It has been a incredible start to the new season, but it is about to get even better with the exciting opening of our incredible new experience The Magical Forest which pushes the story of LEGO MYTHICA to new realms. We’re thrilled to give our guests a sneak peek inside the enchanted woodland walk-through which features some amazing new LEGO models and habitats which will help provide an escape from the everyday transporting guests to a parallel universe where mythical creatures come to life. We can’t wait to capture the imaginations of families.”

The Magical Forest experience builds on the existing digital activations within the main Mythica area of the resort but with a new twist and more interactivity. Activated exclusively via the LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort app, families WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JUNE 2022

will set off on an intrepid adventure where an AR overlay takes users on a journey narrated by BOBs as he’s magically brought to life and transforms from LEGO to his real-life form in The Realm. BOBs guides us along The Magical Forest pathway as we meet other creatures from the realm, including; Crystal Claw Crabs, Baby Lava Dragons, Venus Fly Trap and the incredible Lava Dragon herself.

Through this adventure families get to help BOBs find his missing wing (was it those pesky Venus Fly Traps?!); breathe fire like a Baby Lava Dragon, and play with the Crystal Claw Crabs; before witnessing and getting to capture a photo of the amazing mother Lava Dragon in full flight. With each creature, you discover you’ll also add a special virtual card to your digital collection with facts and stats about them. To celebrate the launch of The Magical Forest there are also two exclusive AR Pop Badges featuring the Crystal Claw Crabs and baby Lava Dragons to collect. www.legoland.co.uk

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Award winning care quality

We are proud of our proven expertise in delivering care. With some of the highest regulator ratings and more outstanding homes than any other provider, we deliver care excellence in all areas of clinical, physical and mental health.

If you’re considering care, call 0330 134 5490 to arrange a tour or one-to-one chat, or visit careuk.com/berkshire

Trusted to care.

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

Located in the heart of Wokingham, Angelo at Ruchetta Italian restaurant offers exceptional service, in a charming and relaxed atmosphere with the most delicious and exquisite food We look forward to welcoming you! Buon appetito, Angelo

Family friendly, relaxed trattoria style Italian dining in Wokingham doesn’t get much better than Angelo’s at 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.

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

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.”

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

0 2 £

F You are invited to join F O Angelo at Ruchetta Trattoria, on Rose street in the heart of Wokingham during the months of May, June & July.

Family friendly, relaxed Italian dining in Wokingham doesn’t get much better...

Bring this invitation along on any Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday during the months of May, June and July, and hand it to a member of our team at Ruchetta for an amazing £20 discount, when you spend £100 or more in our restaurant. For further details contact Ruchetta.

Full T&Cs available at Ruchetta.

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

ROYAL ASCOT Tuesday 14th - Saturday 18th June 2022 Be Part of the Drama!

This summer, the longest running drama returns. Royal Ascot presents a spellbinding explosion of the senses, featuring an all-star cast, unparalleled racing and exquisite Fine Dining.

Revered across the globe, Royal Ascot attracts many of racing’s finest horses. It is also equally synonymous with sartorial elegance, being awash with exquisite fashion and magnificent millinery creations.

TUESDAY 14TH JUNE 2022 At precisely 2pm, Her Majesty The Queen and members of the Royal Family arrive in a magnificent procession ahead of an afternoon of world-class racing. The stage is set for an extraordinary five days.

For the racing purist, this is undeniably the most unmissable day of the whole week, and is spearheaded by three impeccable Group 1 contests – The Queen Anne Stakes, King’s Stand Stakes and St James’s Palace Stakes. This is also a perfect day for socialising, with a host of superb dining options, ranging from a three-course à la carte luncheon, to WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JUNE 2022

gourmet picnics, Champagne afternoon teas or Fine Dining in one of the many restaurants.

WEDNESDAY 15TH JUNE 2022 Whether strolling around the pristine lawns or enjoying a leisurely afternoon tea, those in the know adore this day - one that is both relaxed off the track and intense on it, with the highlight of a

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A MAJOR FASHION EVENT Both Anthony Blay and The Royal Enclosure at Ascot are synonymous with sartorial elegance. This is upheld by a formal Dress Code, which guests are invited to embrace with their own individual style and thus contribute to an occasion heralded internationally as a major fashion event.

Anthony Blay also stock menswear suitable to savour the relaxing yet elegant setting of the Garden Club at Ascot, an exclusive space for those looking to socialise away from the hustle and bustle of the Queen Anne Enclosure while still being able to venture out and enjoy all it has to offer.

Anthony Blay, have a range of suits that are ideal for a day at the races. Visit our store and choose the most suitable style for you from our wide selection. We offer a quality, reliable and friendly service from start to finish.

27 Rose Street, Wokingham RG40 1XS 0118 978 1861

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WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JUNE 2022

competitive card the prestigious Group 1 Prince of Wales’s Stakes.

The Wednesday tends to be a more gently-paced occasion than the opening day of the Royal Meeting, yet there is no compromise on quality in terms of both the racing and the enjoyment away from the track. In addition to The Prince of Wales’s Stakes the card also features three Group 2 races – The Queen Mary Stakes, The Queen’s Vase and The Duke of Cambridge Stakes.

THURSDAY 16TH JUNE 2022 Vibrant, celebratory and steeped in tradition, the third day of Royal Ascot, colloquially known as Ladies Day, is a day to see and be seen. It is a glorious occasion, when high fashion and millinery masterpieces take centre stage alongside Flat racing’s most elite stayers locking horns in the historic Gold Cup. The race has provided some of Royal Ascot’s greatest moments in history including the legendary Yeats landing a remarkable fourth victory in 2009 and Her Majesty The Queen’s filly Estimate WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JUNE 2022

winning in 2013. Subjectivist secured the title in 2021, surging home to win by 5 lengths under Joe Fanning, giving trainer Mark Johnston his fourth victory in the race. A major fashion event in its own right, where sartorial trends for the summer season are set, Thursday sees the most spectacular millinery creations on display, and boasts an unprecedented sense of style to match the prestige on the track.

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of drama for the racing enthusiast as well as a wonderfully sociable occasion for all.

Revolving as ever around six world-class races which as well as the Group 1 Coronation Stakes and Commonwealth Cup, include a Group 2, Group 3 and a pair of fiercely competitive handicaps - day four at Royal Ascot offers an unmissable lead-in to a long weekend and is an ideal opportunity for corporate entertaining and group hospitality.

It was on this day in 2019 that we saw history in the making as Hayley Turner flew to victory on Thanks Be in The Sandringham Stakes to become the first female jockey to win at Royal Ascot since 1987.

FRIDAY 17TH JUNE 2022 The penultimate day of Royal Ascot features two Group 1 races, as Europe’s finest three-year-old fillies do battle in the Coronation Stakes and a field of hugely exciting young sprinters contest the Commonwealth Cup. It’s the perfect start to a memorable long weekend. The Friday has a personality all of its own, guaranteeing plenty 18

SATURDAY 18TH JUNE 2022 Amidst the unique whirlwind of excitement and colour that makes Royal Ascot so special, an exceptional card featuring the £1m Group 1 Diamond Jubilee Stakes, one of the world’s greatest international sprints, ensures a fitting finale to an unforgettable week.

2020 saw history in the making as Nando Parrado and Adam Kirby became the biggest-priced Royal Ascot winners, with a 150-1 shot for trainer Clive Cox in The Coventry Stakes, a race usually staged on the Tuesday of the Royal Meeting. In 2019 the day belonged to Blue Point, who became the first horse since Choisir in 2003 to win two races at Royal Ascot in the same year. Having stormed home to defeat Baattash in Tuesday’s King’s Stand Stakes, the brilliant five-year-old fought doggedly to overcome his rivals and claim the Group 1 sprint-double in a sensational The Diamond Jubilee Stakes. With a top supporting card including the Group 2 Hardwicke Stakes and The Queen Alexandra Stakes, the longest race of the British Flat season, there is plenty to enthral racegoers... and with that - Royal Ascot comes to a glorious close.

Royal Ascot is an excellent occasion to enjoy with a group of friends, family and loved ones.

With the unique rhythm of each day allowing plenty of time to enjoy a catch up over a bite to eat or relax sharing a bottle of Champagne, it is the perfect occasion at which to celebrate.

WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JUNE 2022

Summer workShoPS aT souTh hIll Park

Summer School 2022 11–17yrs Rehearsals Mon 25 July – Fri 5 Aug 9am–5pm Drop-off from 8.40am Rest days Sun 31 July & Mon 1 Aug Performances Sat 6 – Sun 7 Aug 2 & 7pm £280, siblings £250 More information – southhillpark.org.uk/ events/summer-school-2022

Young performers and technicians will come together to perform a full-length, original musical with just nine days of rehearsal.

In the Wilde Theatre, participants will learn routines in singing, dance and drama with expert guidance from a professional artistic team (including director, choreographer and vocal coach) and specialist technical crew (including lighting, sound and costume designers).

Participants will learn to work together as a team, quickly and effectively, whilst having fun and forging life-long friendships.

Join South Hill Park’s ever-popular Summer School and bring Isla’s story to life in this new, spooky, family-friendly musical.

Summer Project 22 6–10yrs Mon 8 – Thu 11 Aug 8.45am drop-off, 5pm pick-up Fri 12 Aug 10.15am drop-off, 7pm pick-up £180, siblings £150 More information – southhillpark.org.uk/ events/summer-project-22

Participants aged 6–10yrs will learn new skills, build confidence and form new friendships as they work towards staging a musical theatre showcase performance at the end of the week.

Participants will have four days to learn a selection of contemporary musical theatre songs. These songs will be sung live, set with choreography and linked together by mini-scenes, which combine to create a short story.

The showcase performance will take place in the Wilde Theatre with professional lighting and sound.

Tickets can be reserved from Mon 8 Aug Visit the Box Office in person or call 01344 484123 Tickets are limited to four per booking

Box offICe 01344 484123 · SouthhillPark.org.uk @SOuThhillPARk

/SOuThhillPARkARTScenTRe

south hill Park arts Centre, ringmead, Bracknell rG12 7Pa

SOuThhillPARk

Registered charity 265656 Please support the future of the arts

Chris Walters Office: 01183 044 310 Mobile: 07909 937 419 Email: enquiries@walterworksplumbingandheating.com www.walterworksplumbingandheating.com www.facebook.com/walterworksplumbing

HTTP://PARKYOGA.CO/WOKINGHAM/ @PARKYOGAWOKINGHAM

PARK YOGA WOKINGHAM Join in with yoga outdoors in Howard Palmer Gardens, Wokingham.

This park is a small pretty park (0.8 acres) located behind the Cockpit Path car park in the centre of the town.

Every Sunday morning 9.30am – 10.30am From Sunday 1st May to Sunday 11th September 2022.

Free car parking in Cockpit Path car park on Sundays

WOKINGHAM LOCAL • APRIL / MAY 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

Escape to the garden It is no secret that events of the past couple of years have caused a shift in what homebuyers are looking for in their properties. Though, it may be interesting to learn that gardens and outdoor spaces have rocketed to the top of homebuyers’ wish lists.

Demand for outdoor space has now surpassed demand for kitchen-dining areas and en-suite bedrooms, both of which have long been the most desired amenities in home searches.

An important factor contributing to the increase in demand for unique outdoor spaces is the fact that gardens create a sense of escapism and relaxation to those who use them. It came as no surprise to industry experts that gardens topped the list of homeowners’ priorities, with those without sufficient outdoor space reporting that they felt a little ‘hemmed in’ during lockdown.

Gardening has numerous advantages and has become a popular recreational activity for people of all ages. Reports indicate that being immersed in nature positively impacts our physical, emotional and mental health. Research has suggested that this boils down to the combination of fresh air, physical exercise and, most interestingly, productive results. According to a recent survey, having the ability to unwind in a setting that you have created is a significant factor in why they appreciate spending time in the garden, which is another driving force behind the demand for outdoor home space.

Experts refer to the above trend as having a ‘fifth room’, which involves a distortion between the inside and outside, allowing people to have more space to appreciate. Additionally, the 24

number of people who cultivate their own fruit and vegetables, as well as those who use environmentally friendly goods such as peatfree compost, has increased in the UK. This demonstrates yet another advantage of the trend towards more garden space.

Do you want to spend more time in your garden in spring? If so, read on...

Many homeowners can spend more time outdoors now that the weather is beginning to improve. If you want to make the most of your garden in spring, we’ve included some suggestions to assist you in doing so.

WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JUNE 2022

1) Take up gardening This should come as no surprise given what we’ve already discussed about the good aspects of gardening. You should be able to plant herbs, flowers, and veggies outside as soon as the weather becomes mild enough. The restocking of fruit and vegetable seeds is now taking place in many stores. Because the directions are usually on the packet, planting is considerably simpler than you may imagine!

2) Practice mindfulness Many practice meditation inside. However, professionals have suggested that meditating outside may be much more relaxing. You will WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JUNE 2022

find yourself relaxing to the sounds of nature, which will allow you to unwind much more quickly than usual.

3) Take your reading and writing outside Following the epidemic, remote working has become increasingly popular, and many people are finding themselves confined to a desk for the most of their working day. Despite this, you are not required to work inside all day! You’ll be all set if you have a comfy table and chair, as well as some shade to sit under. It has been discovered that being outside can inspire creativity, therefore you may still be on the verge of producing your best work!

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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

Turning your house into a Home

07726 408830 Matthewjamesdecorating@gmail.com www.matthewjamesdecorating.co.uk

Ipods - Ipads - Tablets Smartphones - Games consoles PC’s - Laptops & more 01183047777 Unit 13 Elms Walk, Wokingham, RG402FE www.prattspods.co.uk www.microsolderingrepairs.co.uk www.facebook.com/prattspodsltd

WITH THANKS TO

Flexible & comprehensive interior design service

by Jessica Cox Design

W. www.jessicacoxdesign.com T. 07747538281 E. info@jessicacoxdesign.com I. jessica_cox_design

WOKINGHAM LOCAL • APRIL / MAY 2022

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MEET AT THE TOWN HALL FOR PHOTOS AT 11:30 AND THEN PARADE DOWN TO ELMS FIELD FOR A PICNIC AROUND 12 MIDDAY. ‘’THE EVENT IS VERY FAMILY FRIENDLY AND THE KIDS HAVE A GREAT TIME. COME AND JOIN US TO SUPPORT WOKINGHAM LGBTQ+ PRIDE - JUST TURN UP WITH A PICNIC RUG AND SOME PARTY FOOD AND GET TO KNOW OTHERS.’’

SATURDAY WOKINGHAM L

SCHOOLS, COMMUNITY GROUPS AND CHURCHES PLEASE GET IN TOUCH VIA

WOKINGHAM LGBTQ+ PRIDE GROUP

Y 9TH JULY LGBTQ+ PRIDE

When was the last time you reviewed your Will?

Is it still on your list of things to do?

Customer contact info

01344531521 info@soteriaplanning.uk Protect the things you love Soteria Planning, for You, Your family and Your business

The exclusive formal menswear shop in Wokingham, now with an extended range to include casual menswear also.

27 Rose Street, Wokingham RG40 1XS 0118 978 1861

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Modern Antenatal & Postnatal Classes for Today’s Parents. YOUR Body. YOUR Baby. YOUR Choice.

We help you to confidently trust your instincts to make informed decisions that are right for you and to advocate for them no matter what path your birth or parenting journey takes. We’ll cover every eventuality with ZERO judgement.

Becki Hill - Birth & Parent Coach JOIN THE REVOLUTION Contact Details: email beckihill@ourbabyclub.com Follow us @ourbabyclubwokinghambracknell or visit our website www.ourbabyclub.com/wokingham-bracknell

You can experience an authentic Thai massage at the Lazy Frog on Denmark Street. Thai foot or head and shoulder massages are ideal for busy people on the go.

Use our online booking system at www.thelazyfrog.co.uk, message us via social media, or just call us on 0118 374 3693 @LazyFrogThaiMassage

WOKINGHAM LOCAL • APRIL / MAY 2022

RAINBOWS June is LGBTQ+ Pride month around the world, and the second Saturday of each July is the date of Wokingham Pride! Now in its third year, Wokingham Pride is a time for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender residents and their friends, families and well-wishers to celebrate how far the community has come and look at what we still need to achieve to reach full equality and inclusion in our town.

Why do we see so many rainbow flags in Wokingham over the summer?

We want everyone in Wokingham to be able to be open about who they are and who they love, and to feel supported by the wider community.

Everyone who shares the aims of Wokingham Pride is very welcome to join us on Saturday, 9th July at the Town Hall and then at Elms Field around midday for a picnic. This is a family friendly event and completely free. You don’t need to have an existing link to the LGBTQ+ community please feel free to join us and make new friends.

Wokingham Borough Council and Wokingham Town Council support us by flying the rainbow flag to show their support for an inclusive, diverse and safe community. Wokingham Library

WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JUNE 2022

highlights books on LGBTQ+ issues, and many of the local shops and churches also show their support by displaying the rainbow flag and the shops will display the poster in their windows. Oxfam in Peach Street will be giving out flags in the weeks before the event – please pop in if you would like one (donations are very welcome).

“I wish that Wokingham had had Pride when I was growing up in the town”, the leader of Wokingham Town Council, Imogen ShepherdDubey told us. “I know that there are many, many young people today who appreciate the fact that we do now have Pride, and that so many schools, churches and social groups are showing that they are positively welcoming”.

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FLY THE FLAG FOR PRIDE! If you want to show your support for Pride all year round, whatever the weather, then you’ll love our range of rainbow-themed furniture.

Our benches and picnic tables will look just as good in your garden as they do in the grounds of many parks and schools. Each piece is made to order, so you can select any colour combination you fancy from the range we offer. Whether you choose our ever-popular rainbow colourway or decide to go for your school, team or corporate colours, your furniture will stay proud, visible and welcoming for decades. If rainbow shades aren’t your thing, fear not, as our entire range of furniture is available in classic black and brown, too.

Of course, we have a good range of accessible furniture, including wheelchair-accessible options and a cleverly designed picnic table that allows walkthrough access so you don’t have to swing a leg over the seat.

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.

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Take a seat and raise a glass to Pride – cheers!

Of course, Pride isn’t just an opportunity to talk about our rainbow furniture. Pride means a great deal to us and we want to take a moment to honour all our friends in the LGBTQ+ community. Big thanks from to all of you – we all benefit from a more diverse, inclusive and accepting world. Let’s not forget that many of the battles for the equity WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JUNE 2022

we enjoy today were hard-fought – many lives were lost to hate and illness and we must never take the collective fortitude of our friends for granted, nor forget the work they’ve done to make our world a kinder place.

LGBTQ+ friends – we see you, we honour you, we thank you, we stand with you.

Go to https://bit.ly/BRP-Pride-rainbow to see our full range.

WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JUNE 2022

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PUT YOUR PAWS UP!

Here at British Recycled Plastic, we love being outdoors. We also have something of a passion for food and drink, so combining the two is a no-brainer for us.

Our sleek Harrogate Spacesaver Set, comprising a refectory-style table and two slideaway benches, is perfect if you’ve got limited room or an area which needs to be adaptable and versatile. It’s a greatchoice for venues with multi-functional space and clears away easily to open the area up for live events.

Our Roundhay Terrace Set offers a more traditional dining experience with a round table and four chairs. Perfect for relaxed afternoons with a meal and a chilled bottle, it’s an absolute classic.

The table and chairs are all available as individual items, too. Take a leaf out of Bonnie’s book – pop up a parasol and put your paws up, you deserve it!

Our recycled plastic furniture needs no maintenance whatsoever and carries a 25-year guarantee. It will never rot, split or splinter, keeping its good looks and functionality for decades.

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Go to https://bit.ly/BRP-dining-furniture to take a closer look at our dining and garden furniture.

WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JUNE 2022

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

Five Minutes With: Jamie Dobbin Jacqui Priestley, Owner and editor of Wokingham Local - spends 5 mins with Jamie Dobbin, Owner of Brucan Pubs, which includes the Greyhound Finchampstead.

WL: Hi Jamie, welcome to Wokingham Local. So, where did it all start ? Didn’t you train in the fine dining establishments in and around London?

JD: It all started in a small restaurant in Newcastle where I was employed as a pot washer, then prep chef and then I started to cook a little. The Chef there Douglas Jordan, very kindly arranged for me to meet John Williams at Claridge’s hotel in London where I managed to secure a 4-year apprenticeship there. Four years of intensive training later and I took up a chef de partie position under Henry Harris at Hush and Racine before starting a tour of five star London hotels. I worked at The Berkley, The Connaught and The Savoy, eventually taking up a position at London’s world-renowned Ivy 36

Restaurant in the West End. After working my way through the ranks at the celebrity haunt, I was appointed opening head chef for The Club at The Ivy, the members only restaurant. I then took up the position of executive chef for Soho’s Groucho Club before handing back my Oyster card and upping sticks to Windsor to open Brucan’s first pub.

WL: What made you want to leave these celebrity haunts and exclusive, members only restaurants?

JD: 18 or so years working in those wonderful establishments had given me the tools and confidence to go it alone and do it myself!

Cut the apron strings as it were!

WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JUNE 2022

WL: How did Brucan pubs originate, and tell us about your partnership with James Lyon-Shaw?

JD: James and I have been friends for a very long time, and we have always toyed with the idea of having our own business. We were both in a position to fulfil this ambition. The Greene oak, in Windsor was quite literally our first viewing, it had the potential to be the perfect pub and was already in the perfect spot. We saw the potential and there and then Brucan pubs was born.

WL: Was the Greene Oak in Windsor your first pub restaurant?

JD: Indeed, The Greene oak was Brucan pubs first public house, it’s such a lovely building, has a fab garden and a wonderful community around it supporting us.

WL: How many more Brucan pubs are there?

JD: We have three pubs and a farm shop, The Greene Oak, The Drumming Snipe in Mayford, near Woking, The Greyhound, and our farm shop Goswell & Birds in Finchampstead.

WL: When did you take over the Greyhound Finchampstead?

JD: We were lucky enough to finish our full renovation program just in time for the end of summer 2021 and ahead of the cooler autumn months. The Greyhound has a lovely garden, to enjoy the summer sun and warmth was really a blessing for our guests, enabling them to enjoy this as well as the pubs dining room.

WL: What is the ethos behind the menu at the Greyhound, and would you say it is everyday standard pub fayre, or is it something different?

JD: It’s very important for us for our pub and indeed the Greyhound to be an everyday establishment. If that be a pint and quiet read of the newspaper, a glass of bubbles and a catchup or a lovely lunch or dinner.

The menus are very seasonal and change regularly allowing us to indulge in the excellent produce Great Britain has to offer. There are some firm favourites on the menu like our Maldon rock oysters, steak WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JUNE 2022

tartar and wild garlic and nettle soup and of course our Hebridean shepherd’s pie. These sit happily alongside more adventurous dishes like Cornish red mullet with cuttlefish bolognaise and the traditional dishes like Apple tarte tatin.

WL: Next door to the Greyhound Finchampstead is the old village store, now named Goswell & Birds, what’s the story behind this?

JD: We wanted to be a hub of the community if you will, complimenting the traditional pub and 37

Dine Alfresco with Brucan Pubs.

The Greyhound

we learnt there was historically a Finchampstead village store which was much loved, we wanted to rekindle the community feel and need for village convenience. Goswell & Birds is a farm shop offered a wide selection of seasonal fruit and vegetable, beautiful meats from our butchers in the fridges, lifestyle products from artisan local producers and makers and of course everyday convenience of excellent coffee.

WL: Do you live in Wokingham, and do you consider it your home, or is home where your roots are up North?

JD: I live in Battersea SW London with my wife, daughter, and my pug.

WL: What do you like best about Wokingham?

JD: It’s a vibrant hub, it has a certain buzz about town, and I like to proximity to the countryside.

WL: So, we have to ask chefs - what’s your favourite food?

JD: Perhaps a bit unexpected but I do love baked beans.

WL: What’s your favourite dish on your menu?

JD: Our Hebridean hogged shepherd’s pie.

WL: Which one ingredient could you not do without, in the kitchen?

JD: The versatility of salt, it can be used in so many ways in both savoury and sweet cooking, it really is a must have.

WL: What’s the best piece of advice you have been given recently?

JD: Only worry about what is in your control.

WL: Who is your role model in the culinary world?

JD: I think this would have to be John Williams.

WL: Do you aspire to be a Celebrity Chef?

JD: I’m very happy in my life, with my care and Brucan pubs, if I were asked to something in the media world I wouldn’t say no but I’m not pushing WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JUNE 2022

in that direction. I believe in serendipity and opportunities present themselves organically.

WL: What’s your personal ambition for the future?

JD: To ensure that friends and colleagues in hospitality have fun and grow, it a difficult industry, however it is immensely rewarding and whole lot of fun too.

WL: Thank you very much for your time, Jamie, and from myself and Wokingham Local, we wish you and Brucan Pubs all the best for the future.

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Peri Peri!

Peri Peri Sauce. Garlicky, spicy, lemony, tangy and utterly addictive. This bright, fresh, fully-flavoured version hits all the right notes. It originated in Portugal and then went on a long trip to several parts of Africa where it also became incredibly popular. It’s based on the peri peri chili or African Bird’s Eye Chili where it gets it’s flavourful heat, adding several herbs and spices plus plenty of lemony tanginess to balance the sauce.

There is of course, the famous Nando’s including our very own in the Town Centre, with their own delicious range of sauces, however, this is an amazing recipe to keep you stocked up with peri peri sauce for your barbeques all summer long. Why not give it a try?

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WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JUNE 2022

Method Start by roasting the red peppers and onions. This can be done on a gas grill, under the broiler or on a cast iron grill pan. You want to get good char marks on the outside of the peppers and onions. Don’t worry if they are not fully cooked, they will get fully cooked in the sauce.

Ingredients • • • • • • • • • • • •

2 large red bell peppers, char grilled 1 large red onion, char grilled 4 cloves garlic, minced 1/2 cup lemon juice 1/4 cup red wine vinegar, or apple cider vinegar Zest of one lemon, finely grated 1 0 small red Thai chilis, roughly chopped (more to taste for hotter sauce) 1 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, or plain paprika 1 1/2 tsp dried oregano 2 bay leaves 1 1/2 tsp kosher salt 1 tsp black pepper

To finish the sauce (when cooked) • 1/4 cup lemon juice • Zest of one lemon, finely minced • 1/4 cup red wine vinegar, or apple cider vinegar • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil

Chop the peppers and onions and add them to a food processor or blender. You can us an immersion blender if that is all you have on hand, just take the time to get the ingredients well pureed.

Add the garlic, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, lemon zest, red Thai chilis, smoked paprika, oregano, salt and pepper to the food processor with the grilled onions and peppers and puree until smooth.

Transfer the sauce to a medium saucepan, add the bay leaves and simmer slowly for 20-30 minutes.

Let the sauce cool to warm. Remove the bay leaves then return the sauce to the food processor again.

Add the additional lemon juice, red wine vinegar and lemon zest. Puree for another few minutes until very smooth. Slowly add in the olive oil in a thin stream as the processor is running.

Notes To make Peri Peri Chicken, brush a little of the sauce onto all sides of the chicken you are using. You can use bone in, skin on chicken or boneless skinless chicken.

Place the chicken pieces in a glass dish and cover with plastic wrap. Let the chicken marinate for several hours or overnight. Grill on a glass grill or barbeque until fully cooked, brushing on additional sauce in the last five to ten minutes of cook time. Serve with extra sauce for dipping at the table.

You will soon find this becomes an obsession with this very flavourful and spicy sauce is to use it on grilled chicken wings. Forego any marinating beforehand and start grilling the wings to seal the skin on both sides after seasoning with only a little salt. Then them over medium high heat, so as not to cook them too quickly and bruah on the sauce, turning them every 4-5 minutes.

Aim for a good 3 coats on each side for maximum peri peri sauce flavour.

WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JUNE 2022

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PORTUGAL

BY TRAIN

Portugal is a wonderful country that offers sun-soaked beaches, impressive architecture and laid-back people. Its modest size and excellent connections make it perfect for an Interrail adventure. My recent travels take me from Porto in the north, down to Oriente and then Lisbon, over to Cascais, all the way to the Algarve in the south, visiting Faro and ending in Portimao.

PORTO My adventure started in Portugal’s second city, the birthplace of Port wine and a port of call for historic maritime voyages. Strolling along the quayside between the colourful ancient buildings of the Cais da Ribeira and traditional boats parked on the River Douro, and joining a free walking tour from Lion’s Square which provided a great introduction to Porto’s history and culture. Immediately, two things grab your attention, firstly, you get a feeling of how laidback, and friendly the locals are, and secondly, that the food and drink is amazing - and great value for money. I recomend trying vinho verde or ‘green wine’ - excellent!

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ORIENTE One of the most stunning modern sights en route to Lisbon is Oriente Station. It was built by master architect Santiago Calatrava with a roof of glass and steel made to look like a row of trees. It houses a train station, a Metro, and a bus terminal. The entrance to the Metro platform has huge tile murals designed by some of the best local and international contemporary artists. Plus, just a few minute’s walk from the station are a host of amazing sights to explore, including: Oceanarium - An odyssey of sea creatures in a state-of-the-art building; Portugal Pavillion A gravity-defying structure; Atlantic Pavillion A UFO-like arena; Interactive Science Museum WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JUNE 2022

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Contact: maria@portugueselanguageclub.co.uk | 0742763033 4 Heathway, Tilehurst, Reading, RG31 5AP

Scientific exhibits with cutting-edge technology; Vasco da Gama Tower - The city’s tallest building with a panoramic viewing platform and Vasco da Gama Bridge - One of the world’s longest bridges.

50’s themed bars complete the excentric vibe for a great evening out, with a difference.

LISBON (LISBOA) As Europe’s second oldest capital city, Lisbon is bursting with historic charm. You can take a classic yellow tram to the Moorish Castle of São Jorge for a hilltop view of the city. Then descend on foot through the narrow alleyways of the Alfama district for a taste of old-time Lisbon. The locals start their evening late, having dinner in the lively streets of the Bairro Alto district, enjoying such delights as bacalao, one of Portugal’s national dishes made from dried and salted cod, with delicious cocktails and fine Portuguese hospitality. You can’t possibly leave Lisbon without trying ‘pastéis de nata’​. These delicious custard tarts are available at nearly all bakeries and pastry shops.

CASCAIS Possibly one of my all time favourite places, Cascais has it all.. Sun? Check. Sandy beaches?

Check. Enough places to sample find seafood and Portuguese cuisine? Check. Yes, Cascais has quite a few things on the old vacation wish list. In fact, the town now reigns as one of the most popular beach escapes from Lisbon, drawing in thousands of people from the city - which is just one hour away on the train.

Perched on Portugal’s Costa Estoril a little to the west of the capital, lovely Cascais is known for its gorgeous climate, buzzing nightlife, and general beach town vibe. But there’s also more to it than that - history, epic street art, and stunning, centuriesold architecture also spring to mind.

FARO Faro is best known as being the provincial capital of the Algarve. Here you can chill by the sea, in one of the many waterfront cafés or beaches. A short bus ride will take you to the popular town beach, Praia 44

WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JUNE 2022

de Faro, for soft sand, friendly vibes and a beautiful sunset. In the old town and harbour districts ther are plenty of historic delights, none more so than the Igreja do Carmo church. Its eerie bone chapel has walls constructed of femur bones and contains 1245 skulls originating from the Carmelite monks who lived there!

PORTIMAO Portimão is a popular holiday destination that captures the true essence of the Algarve. The ultimate Portuguese beach life and cuisine are found in this port city that it is the second largest in the region.

Portimão is known for its breathtaking Praia da Rocha beach and the buzzing scene around it.

Whether you come to enjoy the crazy nightlife or just want to eat a couple of grilled sardines, you won’t forget your visit to this beautiful city. If you get a chance to visit ... you too will be the tour guide when visiting Portimão. It is absolutely fabulous!

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We have become known as a 1 stop Automotive shop, from Servicing, Repairs and Diagnostics, Bespoke Welding and Fabrication to Performance upgrades, Tuning, Styling, Paint Correction and refinement, full builds and restoration and much more.

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

WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JUNE 2022

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NORFOLK

This is big-sky country, dominated by sweeping beaches and flat-as-a-pancake farmlands. Back in the 19th century, some of Norfolk’s beach towns were a draw for the well-to-do to take to the water, and there’s a sense of faded Victoriana to many of the old-school seaside locations dotted along the coast.

Start a good, old-fashioned road trip in Norwich, which in 2012 became England’s first Unesco City of Literature and is packed out with old buildings turned into antique shops and restaurants serving Cromer crab. Wind into the Norfolk Broads, made up of more than 125 miles of waterways, before skipping northbound along the seaside towns that dot the coast.

The entire stretch of the north Norfolk shoreline is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty – seek out Wells-next-the-Sea, a pretty seaside town with candy-coloured beach huts and classic bucket-and-

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spade charm, or vast and wild Holkham Beach for four miles of wind-whipped golden sands backed by pine dunes. The beach is part of the grand Holkham Estate, also home to The Victoria Inn – a red-brick, ivy-covered 19th-century inn with smart rooms.

Driving away from the coast, the heath-like landscape of south Norfolk is brilliant for tramping across in any weather. Thetford Forest and nearby Breckland are Special Protection Areas where wildlife wanders freely – golden pheasant, roe deer and hare can all be found.

WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JUNE 2022

Revenue is vanity, profit is sanity, cash is reality or simply put cash is king! In other words, no matter how boast worthy your sales or profits are, if you are not receiving money from sales then you are going to come into a problem when it comes to paying the business expenses.

Positive cash flow is the lifeblood of any business.

A business that appears successful can fail because of poor cash flow. And, even if poor cash flow does not put your business at risk, it might hurt in the long run and limit any potential business growth. If you are struggling with your cashflow or wish to improve it, here are a few helpful suggestions.

1. Be proactive when issuing an invoice, once the work is done why wait! A delay will only increase the time it takes to receive payment. Speed things up further by emailing invoices instead of mailing them.

2. Use a mobile payment solution to get paid even quicker. You will be able to get paid on the spot and all you need is an app for your smartphone and hardware that is able to read the card. Square, a payment processing company, has a basic card reader for as little as £16.00 (as of May 2022) 48

3. Use promotions or deals to speed up payments.

Consider offering incentives to encourage quicker payment. This could be a percentage off the invoiced amount, or even a promotion to increase sales.

4. Ask for deposits or partial payments on large order or long term-term contracts. For example, a landscape gardener might ask for a percentage of the total invoice as a deposit before work is even started with the final balance due on completion.

5. Delay outgoings if the payment terms allow it.

Just make sure that payment is made on time and you do not incur any additional fees as a result.

6. Maintain good relationships as tensions can flare up when dealing with business finances. However good business relationships can help build positive cash flows and by keeping on good terms it increases WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JUNE 2022

the likelihood of payments being made on time, or when you need to negotiate flexible payment terms.

Monitoring cash flow is an ongoing process and you need to be able to track what you have coming in against what you have going out. You may need to forecast future cash flows, however, it can be difficult with today’s rising costs when you effectively have to try and guess what your future costs will be. There is no exact science and every business is different. Challenges aside you may be able to spot future warning signs which can be addressed before it is too late.

Joed Campbell-Gillies ACCA www.quentela.com 0118 469 3025

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“Hi, I’m Neil and I created Steady Consulting with one clear purpose in mind: to help others achieve more, by offering consulting services designed to provide expert guidance and support, that help small and medium sized businesses grow.”

Neil Stead, Founder & Managing Consultant

HOW CAN WE HELP YOU? Is your business in need of a strategic direction?

Could you benefit from working smarter, not harder?

Would you like to increase your customer satisfaction?

Are you looking to improve your employees mental health & well-being?

Backed by over 30 years experience in corporate business, we have the skills, knowledge and experience to help you move things forward.

GET IN TOUCH Contact us to arrange a FREE (no obligation) conversation.

We’ll listen to your aspirations, challenges, and understand those ‘what keeps you awake at night’ moments. hello@steadyconsulting.co.uk | www.steadyconsulting.co.uk | 07375 482 637

Discover how we’ve already helped local businesses by taking a look at the Case Studies area on our website.

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Copy deadline: 23/06/22 Delivery from 06/07/22 WOKINGHAM LOCAL INFO@WOKINGHAMLOCAL.CO.UK 07306 146142

To thrive or to survive How are you feeling? This question might prompt a variety of responses, quite probably there will be a few aches, some complaints, some stiffness, some grumbling occasionally it might generate an ‘absolutely brillliant thanks – I’m feeling great in my body and life’s good’

www.richardsyoga.org Facebook - richard’s yoga

Many of us make our way through life, coping with our aches and pains, lack of energy and health problems to depending on the stage of life we are in?

To thrive, or to survive, define two extremes of human function. Thrive is defined as to make steady progress or to flourish; survive is defined as to live or exist. In the human, thriving is associated with calm, vigor and health, while survival is associated with stress, fatigue and disease.

You can tell the degree of thriving or surviving simply by looking at someone’s posture.

The more collapsed or slumped a person’s posture is, the more they approach the survival stage whereas the more upright and aligned their posture, the more they approach the thriving stage.

Try this simple experiment: Stand up and slouch your shoulders forward. Move your head left and right. It felt very tight and limited right? Next, lift your left arm from your side straight up in front of you. You will notice tightness and effort needed to lift the arm.

While holding the same slumped posture, try taking a deep breath through your nose.

Most likely it feels strained and shallow. Now try to feel really good, like you’ve had some fantastic news, how does that feel?

Now stand up straight - feel like you’re pressed against a wall up to a wall with your bum, shoulder blades and back of your head touching it.

Perform the above tests holding this “on-the-wall posture”. Amazingly, you will notice a substantial 52

improvement in your neck and shoulder flexibility.

You will also be able to breathe deeper with less effort and even feel happier and more alive.

This demonstrates how unblocking the function of your whole body simply by straightening up.

This experiment proves two very important concepts: the body and mind are one and our posture determines our function.

We don’t consider these two concepts as they relate to our health. We like to think that the body as a collection of “parts” and that the mind is somehow separate from the rest of the body.

Posture can suffer through sitting, computer work, driving, even recreational fitness, it’s all stacked against us! At tight core and six pack looks ok, but it’s exactly that, tight! When our natural posture is a rounding of the shoulders, we are heading for trouble. We develop our posture the wrong way.

Improving posture seems to evade most of us, although a consistent regime of the right movement will recover our posture. This is what anyone finds when they start yoga practice. Yoga shows us how our posture is, from the very first session, and what we need to do for improvement.

We become better connected with our body, normal range of movement returns, and it doesn’t take long for us to stand up straight, naturally, without effort.

Given the sensations and feelings from the simple test above, isn’t it worth trying some yoga to enable you to thrive rather than survive?

WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JUNE 2022

Summer is here! Why not add a little Thai sunshine to your summer plans with a massage at The Lazy Frog?

There are loads of fun events and things to do in Wokingham over the next couple of months; parties celebrating the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, Wokingham Pride (we are LGBTQ+ friendly – find us on the back of the Wokingham Local Pride poster), and more. After all that partying and parading, perhaps your feet will appreciate our Thai foot massage!

We can give you an authentic Thai massage experience using techniques that have their origins in the ancient past. Our traditional massage is done without oil, instead you wear loose fitting cotton clothing, but The Lazy Frog’s Signature massage combines the traditional techniques with the use of aromatic oils. There is also a more intense deep tissue massage for treating buried knots and tension.

We also have two adjoining rooms that we open for our couple’s sessions, so that you can share the experience with a loved one or a best friend. All our therapists are fully qualified and experienced, and we pride ourselves on our friendly and relaxing service.

You can use our online booking system at www.thelazyfrog.co.uk, message us via social media, or just call us on 0118 374 3693 @LazyFrogThaiMassage

27 Denmark Street, Wokingham, RG40 2AY

“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.

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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

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