Wokingham Local Magazine Issue 8 July / August 2022

WOKINGHAM LOCAL JULY / AUGUST 2022

WWW.WOKINGHAMLOCAL.CO.UK

Pick me up

I’M FREE!

SUMPTUOUS SUMMER FOOD HEALTH, BEAUTY & WELLNESS SCHOOL’S OUT!

Grand Designs PEOPLE & PLACES

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WHAT’S ON? WHAT’S NEW?

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FOOD & DRINK

Sumptuous Summer Food

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WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JULY / AUGUST 2022

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Family trattoria style Italian dining, located in the heart of Wokingham, Angelo and his team at Ruchetta offer exceptional service, in a charming and relaxed atmosphere, with the most delicious food.

“We look forward to welcoming you and your family and friends!

Buon Appetito, Angelo” ‘Nothing could have been better....’

“Ruchetta continues to be one of our favourite restaurants. We recently visited for a meal with family and friends and Angelo and the whole team are absolutely superb. The ambience and setting is very warm, welcoming and friendly, the service just the right balance of attentiveness without being OTT. The food is just the best combination of superb quality ingredients and recipes that are a good blend of traditional Italian cooking with a contemporary twist. Wine selection is also very good and overall result is just superb. It is not often that you eat out and feel nothing could have been better - but Ruchetta achieves that!”

“Sei molto gentile” Angelo ‘Can’t wait to re-visit...’

“Six of us had a fabulous early evening meal. Super friendly and helpful staff. Lovely clean, atmospheric restaurant. A very popular place. We ordered mixed starters, which is a great way to try a bit of everything. The Fritti Misto was particularly good, as was the Burrata.

I had Scoglio as a main. One of the best Italian dishes I have ever had! The base of black tagliolini was lovely and the mixture of seafood simply superb. Scallops to die for (maybe a tad dramatic, but they were stonkingly good). My wife had one of the specials of the day a venison pasta dish, which also went down well. A couple of bottles of wine also went down well. The portions are reasonably substantial. We didn’t make desert!

It’s a popular restaurant, so well worth booking. Can’t wait to re-visit!”

“Ciao, ci vediamo presto” Angelo “I’m ten years old and I love going to Ruchetta. Ruchetta is the best restaurant that my family and I have been to in Wokingham...”

“Grazie Bambino” Angelo

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 July & August.

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 July and August 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

WELCOME... ...to our Summer issue.

Filled with lots of exciting events, attractions and family friendly entertainment, enough to keep everyone happy all Summer long. ‘’School’s Out!’’ will definitely not be boring.

And, whether it’s having a barbeque in the garden or enjoying ‘sumptuous summer food’ at our local restaurants, once again this issue has so much to choose from.

Andressa Aesthetics and the Lazy Frog keep us ‘healthy, beautiful, and well’ after all that fun, and food, and so, to our massively popular theme of ‘Grand Designs’. There is an absolute wealth of unique and bespoke grand design everywhere we look, from the crafters of Holme Grange, to our technical and interior designers, our marvellous tradespeople, grand estates, and splendid wedding suppliers- they are all in this issue, and once more I can say without question Our Wokingham Local Community has it all - Enjoy the Summer!

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.

WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JULY / AUGUST 2022

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CONTENTS

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10 Care UK 14 Five Minutes With: Gayle Sparks, Enchanting Glass Designs 17 Schools Out! The Berkshire Mummies Blog 22 The Lazy Frog What’s inside a muscle?

26 Banjo Interior Design Masters Winner 36 Easthampstead Park 39 Rivervale Barn 41 McCarthy Stone Interior Design for retirement 46 Holme Grange School The next generation 48 Yoga at Work?

50 The Time Has Come to do More Business advice from Steady Consulting 52 Triumph & Gibson New creations 56 Recipe Halloumi & Pineapple Burger 57 Summer Sides Simple side salads 60 La Tomatina Valencia’s annual festival

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WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JULY / AUGUST 2022

PORTUGUESE FORCHILDREN ADULTS& BUSINESS FACE TO FACE AND ON-LINE PORTUGUESE LESSONS

“THE LIMITS OF MY LANGUAGE MEANS THE LIMITS OF MY WORLD” LUDWIG WITTGENSTEIN

WWW.PORTUGUESELANGUAGECLUB.CO.UK Maria Rodrigues-Wood

Contact: maria@portugueselanguageclub.co.uk | 07427 630331 4 Heathway, Tilehurst, Reading, RG31 5AP

New & Used Boat Sales Maintenance - Storage Specialising in the sale of exceptional open day boats & cabin cruisers.

Follow us on Instagram & Facebook @valwyattmarine www.valwyattmarine.co.uk 01189 403211

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WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JULY / AUGUST 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

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

“I missed a heartbeat with the first glance at the pictures.”

Enchanting nature, Your loving family, Those contagious smiles, And my shutter…

Yeah, location photoshoots with families are as poetic as they sound.

It’s a lifestyle shoot with your family to capture those loving connections.

You will be guided through the entire experience with a pre-session consultation, wardrobe styling, the actual photoshoot and choosing and creating bespoke art products for your home.

Get in touch today to book your Summer or Autumn photoshoot!

CAPTURING LITTLE PIECES OF HUMANITY... hello@pranalipatil.co.uk | https://www.pranalipatil.co.uk Connect with me on Instagram: @pranalipatilphotography

A Glorious

DESTINATION VENUE!

School’s Out! Grand Designs.

Health, Beauty & Wellness. Sumptuous Summer Food All these themes of Summer, within one glorious venue just a couple of minutes from Wokingham Town Centre on Heathlands Rd, can be found at Holme Grange Craft Village.

This friendly village, with its quirky, entrancing range of shops, workshops and converted barns, packed full of independent traders and artisan crafters (including home interiors, glass designs, jewellers, authentic Persian rugs and much more) welcome you with a unique shopping experience coupled with family entertainment and interaction.

There really is something for everyone.

For those School’s Out! Summer holidays, Brickies, Sewisfaction, Aquatic Addiction, Quench Bookshop, Blooming Roots and Pottery Pals have intriguing hobbies and classes to explore, then sit back and relax with health, beauty and wellness galore. Book a yoga class, or spoil yourself at the beauty salon and hairdressers, and the clothes boutique which has all the latest fashions, before

tasting the latest tipples on offer from the Tasting Barn, or enjoying Sumptuous Summer Food at the Chocolate cafe - and don’t forget to book your beloved pooch into Fairytales Dog Grooming salon!

Craft Markets Full of beautiful crafts and materials, handmade with love by talented local makers.

The Craft Markets are FREE ENTRY and with FREE PARKING, over the weekends of

July 9th + 10th, August 13th + 14th, September 10th & 11th, October 8th + 9th From 10am - 3pm

All this without checking your watch for the carparking to run out - Yes, it is free limitless car parking, plus toilet and baby changing facilities and the village is completely accessible to all.

Craft markets and other events are planned to take place at the craft village throughout the year, with the Platinum Jubilee Party recently enjoyed by hundreds of visitors.

A full list of events and details for all the traders and crafters (most of whom are open 7 days a week) can be viewed on the website -

www.holmegrangecraftvillage.co.uk

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.

Five Minutes With: Gayle Sparks ~ Enchanting Glass Designs Jacqui Priestley, owner and editor of Wokingham Local magazine spends 5 minutes with Gayle Sparks, entrepreneur and business owner of Enchanting Glass Designs, based at Holme Grange Craft Village in Wokingham.

WL: When did you know you wanted to become a business owner and entrepreneur?

GS: Whilst working full time in a corporate environment I became aware that my life revolved 100% around my company and that I had a poor work life balance and therefore needed to find something for me. Glass is what I found and then I dreamt of teaching the art when I retired.

WL: How did you get the idea for your business?

GS: Upon being made redundant I took my dream to another level. I wanted to not only teach but successfully sell my art too, and whilst doing craft fairs and pop up exhibitions it became evident that I could have my own shop front.

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WL: How do you come up with new ideas for your business?

GS: Every day inspirations from what I see driving to work, to being out and about, but also being inspired by others through meeting many people, and social media.

WL: What motivates you?

GS: My achievements and my pieces of art along with my long-standing customers.

WL: What is the best piece of advise you have been given?

GS: Never give up, keep believing in yourself and hard work reaps rewards.

WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JULY / AUGUST 2022

WL: What do you like best about being at Holme Grange Craft Village?

GS: This is the perfect environment for my craft with many other like-minded tenants and visitors.

It’s a peaceful and tranquil place to be which enables me to be creative.

WL: What do you like best about Wokingham?

GS: Its rural location - you don’t have to go far to be in the woods and surrounding fields.

WL: What do you do to relax?

GS: I head to the beach, preferably with the sun shining so that I can lie out on my sun lounger with a glass on hand, reading a book.

WL: Who is your biggest inspiration?

GS: I don’t really have one person that I am really inspired by but I admire people who have grown up with nothing and turned into extremely successful business entrepreneurs.

WL: What is your future ambition?

GS: To ensure as many people as possible can enjoy and experience the creativity of fused glass.

WL: It is lovely to speak with you today Gayle, and we wish you all the very best for the future.

FUSED GLASS COURSES Want to relax, have fun and some glass therapy?

No experience necessary. Book in now!

These classes are either 3 hours or full day, designed for any level of experience.

Using Bullseye transparent & opal art glass, you will learn all there is to know about fused glass & create your own stunning pieces of fused glass art.

6th August, 11-2pm - TEALIGHT WAVE - £70pp 13th August, 11-2pm - Powder Landscape - £70pp 10th September, 11-2pm - Small Picture - £70pp 17th September, 10.30am-3.30pm - Big Picture - £150pp 24th September, 11-2pm - Stained Glass Flowers in a Pot - £70pp 1st October, 11-2pm - Coasters - £70pp Class sizes are limited to 7 adults to ensure individual attention. Price includes all materials & tea or coffee. @Enchanting Glass Designs Unit 5, Holme Grange Craft Village, Wokingham, Berkshire RG40 3AW Gayle@enchanting-glass-designs.co.uk / www.enchanting-glass-designs.co.uk / 07887241785

WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JULY / AUGUST 2022

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A4 Poster with Crop Marks.pdf 1 08/06/2022 11:13:22

SATURDAY 23RD JULY In Partnership With

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NEWBURY SHOWGROUND

School’s Out! BUT IT DOESN’T HAVE TO BE BORING!

Making plans to entertain your children over the Summer Holidays may seem like a daunting task but fortunately Berkshire Mummies is on hand to help – and not everything you do has to cost a fortune. Parks and playgrounds are a popular choice for a low cost/free family trip out. California Country Park* and Dinton Pastures* have a wide range of play equipment for all ages, picnic areas, refreshments and walking trails around the lakes.

Other play areas which are worth visiting are Elms Field and The Pinewood Centre and we also recommend the new Cantley Park Play Area – the interactive elements are impressive and sure to be a big hit! If you travel outside Wokingham, The Look Out* in Bracknell is a lovely place to spend a few hours – the play area is large and free to use and you can also walk/go den building in the forest. Finchampstead Baptist Church (FBC) not only has a vast play area but there is also a games area with a running track (great for scooters WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JULY / AUGUST 2022

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and bikes) and mini football pitches, plus a woodland walk.

Children love water play and splash pads make for a fun few hours of entertainment!

California Country Park’s* paddling pool can get busy so you will need to book a slot in advance for a small fee. You could also visit Christchurch Paddling Pool in Reading, Woodford Park’s Paddling Pool, or the splash pad at Great Hollands Pavilion in Bracknell. Jocks Lane in Bracknell has a lovely bright splash pad as well as a play area and café.

A walk is a great way to help children burn off some energy – but it doesn’t have to be boring!

Try geocaching – all you need is the app on your phone. Or orienteering – you can download a map on the Dinton Pastures website which takes you on a course around the country park.

You could also follow the Mosaics Trail next time you are walking around Wokingham town (simply download the free Wokingham Town History App to get you started).

These are just a few of the highlights that Wokingham has to offer for children this Summer – please do follow Berkshire Mummies for even more inspiration.

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Written by Berkshire Mummies – A blog for Parents, Grandparents and Carers throughout The Royal County of Berkshire www.berkshiremummies.co.uk / Facebook @Berkshire Mummies Blog / Instagram @BerkshireMummies *Parking charges apply.

WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JULY / AUGUST 2022

As a qualified family photographer, I capture timeless and beautiful images of your growing family over a number of years. Offering maternity, newborn, cake smash, birthdays and family photography in my Eversley studio or your favourite outdoor location. Having a professional photographer not only gives you beautiful, priceless memories to look back on, but a chance to be in the photo with your children. I will guide you on what to wear, direct and pose you so that you look your best at all times.

As an expert brand photographer, I help local and online businesses stand out from the crowd. After your branding photo shoot, you will receive a bank of beautifully crafted, on brand images to help get higher client engagement, build trust with potential clients and put you a step closer to more sales and bookings.

www.leannedpphotography.co.uk | leanne@leannedpphotography.co.uk | 07522 554 093

WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JULY / AUGUST 2022

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Exciting NEW Award-winning treatment offers It is now over 12 years since I first opened Andresa Skin Health and Laser Clinic.

We are located in a beautiful converted barn on the Wasing Estate in Aldermaston. We offer a wide range of skin and body treatments, from non-surgical anti-ageing programmes, acne and rosacea treatments as well as body and muscle sculpting, pelvic floor rehabilitation and permanent hair removal.

STATE-OF-THE-ART LASER HAIR REMOVAL

Say goodbye to shaving and waxing, say hello to soft, satin smooth skin

The award winning, state of the art NEW Soprano Titanium for face and all over body permanent hair reduction is proving very popular this summer. This laser hair removal treatment is like no other, in all my 26 years in the industry, this is by far the best I’ve ever seen. Getting rid of unwanted hair has never been quicker or easier.

Removes unwanted hair in minutes l Treats any part of the face & body l Clinically proven technology l Fast lunchbreak treatment l Available all year round for men and women l Comfortable and pain-free l All skin types including tanned skin l

NEW LUNCTHIME LASER FACELIFT Beautiful, natural looking results

We have offered a more natural alternative to surgery for anti-ageing treatments for sometime, but I am really excited about this new advanced ClearLift 4D laser facelift. It gives smoother, brighter, tighter skin after just 4 treatments with long lasting results.

A more youthful appearance without surgery Lifts, tightens and tones skin l Reduces lines and wrinkles l R esults up to 12 months or longer after treatment l l

Special Wokingham Local readers’ special offer – 1st treatment free when you purchase a course of either of these treatments until 31st August 2022.

Terms and conditions apply.

Theresa Fleetwood, Andresa’s Founder and Director

Skin Health Radiant skin, the natural way can be yours with our non-surgical face & body contouring & lifting treatments. Our bespoke anti-ageing skin treatments give great long-lasting results without the need for surgery or injectables.

As a specialist laser and skin clinic, we can help you with: Non-surgical face, neck & body contouring Acne & rosacea specialists .

Pain-free laser hair removal Wrinkle & skin re-modelling Contouring Cellulite/fat reduction Emsella for incontinence Emsculpt body sculpting Non-surgical blepharoplasty

Andresa Aesthetics Exclusive Skin Health and Laser Clinic Tel: 01635 800183

info@andresa.co.uk

www.andresa.co.uk

Lower Wasing Barn, Wasing Lane, Nr Woolhampton RG7 4LY

Wow, time sure does fly!

At the time of writing, it’s coming up to 11 months since we opened in September 2021. It seems like only yesterday that we were fitting out our salon in Denmark Street last summer.

We’ve been thrilled by the warm reception from everyone, and it’s been our pleasure to welcome all our lovely guests. It’s especially gratifying when people who’ve been to Thailand tell us how happy they are to have a truly authentic Thai massage experience in Wokingham. We’ll be celebrating our first anniversary this September with a special treat for our regular guests, which we’ll announce nearer the time. Follow us on social media so that you’ll be among the first to know!

Thai massage is a great way to relieve muscular stress, tension and knots. You’ve probably seen pictures of skeletal muscles portrayed as bundles of fibres. Each fibre is made up of a huge number of muscle cells, which contain thousands of tiny, stacked structures called sarcomeres.

These work like microscopic ratchets during contraction which release to relax the muscle.

Sometimes, this ratchet mechanism doesn’t completely release, causing the muscle to retain tension. This can result in those uncomfortable knots and tightness!

By manipulating the muscle tissue, Thai massage helps release those stuck ratchets, easing the tension and discomfort. Want to try it for yourself? We’ll give you a 10% discount of your next massage at The Lazy Frog this July & August.

Simply mention the special phrase: “I’m a local frog fan” when booking.

Note that you can only use this discount once and not with 10am bookings or couple’s sessions because they’re discounted by at least 10% already.

WHAT’S INSIDE A MUSCLE?

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

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WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JULY / AUGUST 2022

Snap, crackle and pop! Great for a breakfast cereal, but bad news when it’s coming from your head, neck, shoulders or back.

We spend long hours working in one way or another, and that can mean putting hours of stress on the body. It could be repetitive motion, physical exertion or even maintaining a desk-bound posture in front of a computer.

The human head weighs roughly 5 to 6 kg, supported on just 7 vertebrae in the neck.

That might not sound like much but imagine holding two new-born babies at arm’s length… arms would sag after just a few minutes, never mind trying to support that weight all day long. That’s why you feel that tender tightness down the neck and across the shoulders at the end of the day.

Our massages are a fabulous way to ease those tight knots buried within tense muscles.

Our traditional Thai massage techniques apply a combination of tissue manipulation, acupressure and limb stretches (assisted yoga positions) to work out all that tension.

Despite all that, we’ve even had some guests fall asleep on our massage beds during a session. That’s how relaxing it can be!

Thai massage dates back centuries. Each Thai village had a massage healer who helped relieve the aches and pains of hard-working villagers toiling under peasant society.

It’s even recognised by UNESCO as part of our intangible human heritage!

Experience it for yourself. Make an appointment via our online booking system at www.thelazyfrog.co.uk, message us via social media, or call us on 0118 374 3693 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.

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

“I’ve decided that interior design is 99% logistics and 1% design” Interior Design Masters with Alan Carr, and series winner, Banjo Beale

BANJO After eight weeks of decisions, dramas and driving thousands of miles to secure those very special reclaimed and second-hand items to make his super-stylish schemes stand out, Australian-born cheesemaker, marketeer and stylist Banjo Beale, 35, who lives with his partner Ro on the Isle of Mull, Scotland, has been crowned the winner of Interior Design Masters 2022.

Head judge Michelle Ogundehin was joined by fashion and interiors designer Matthew Williamson and businesswoman and owner of the London Cocktail Club, Sarah Willingham, for the final.

Banjo and his fellow finalist, Amy Davies, were each tasked with a personal project to transform two floors of their own bar in Soho, central London, both in desperate need of a style refresh. Banjo’s client wanted a sleek ‘British members’ club’ vibe. Banjo admitted that he’d never been in such an establishment in his life. The winning result? Elegant, understated and so impressive, the bar’s owner has now asked Banjo to restyle his own apartment.

Banjo – nicknamed by partner Ro, because ‘he’s highly-strung’ – when he came back down to earth after taking the winner’s crown, said he couldn’t quite believe it. ‘’I was genuinely, really surprised 26

and overwhelmed and speechless. It was such a long rollercoaster, the whole process, and to be standing at the end an absolute winner, well I did cry. I know, I’m a crier – happy tears, sad tears, overwhelmed tears, every kind of tears – and at the end, it was probably tears of exhaustion. The entire process is exhausting, don’t underestimate that. I don’t shop in big bucks stores, so it involved a lot of driving. It wasn’t unusual for me to drive to Grimsby, then back to London, then to Bristol or somewhere, then back, just to collect that piece of treasure. I’m Australian, so driving is just natural to me, but it was hard because I couldn’t go home and decompress every week. I spent lots of time on the road and lots of time in hotels.

I never mentioned why I like a light fitting on the show, and perhaps I should. It’s a big like this. You know if you put on a few extra pounds, you might buy WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JULY / AUGUST 2022

yourself a nice pair of shoes to give yourself an instant boost? A light fitting is like that, it’s the fastest way to get a really easy result, a nice big result in a room.

My intuition for interior design comes from when I was a kid, my mum would let me re-arrange the furniture in our lounge room. I would always decorate my own room. And I would do installations for my mum and relatives and neighbours to admire. I would be like, ‘look, but don’t touch.’ I grew up in the country in Western Australia and it wasn’t the done thing to go into interior design. I went a different direction, advertising. It was always in the back of my mind, but never quite happened for me. Then I watched the last series, and I thought ‘gosh – this might be it.’

I think you’ve got to believe in yourself and just know that you can do it. It’s amazing what you can do.

I don’t know where I pulled it out from, but pressure WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JULY / AUGUST 2022

makes diamonds. My friend said that to me once and I say it a lot. I love it. It’s life. That sums up the show.

When you’re put in that position it’s amazing what you can pull out. I’m interested in pursuing more interior design opportunities, collecting things and repurposing unusual objects. I love trawling antique fares and that kind of stuff. I’ve decided that interior design is 99 per cent logistics and one per cent design.

“... pressure makes diamonds.

My friend said that to me once and I say it a lot. I love it. It’s life.”

Follow Banjo on Instagram @banjo.beale.

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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

Our purpose? Simple - we’re here to help you to achieve the best possible price, with the least amount of stress, as quickly as possible.

From ‘cottages to castles’ we’ve applied our creative marketing strategies to hundreds of homes over the years, learning a bit about innovative property marketing along the way.

Berkshire property market, and are able to offer a trusted hand with all your property needs.

We don’t have a minimum home value, instead we prefer to proudly feature homes which love being lived in.

As you might expect, we are Regulated by key industry bodies including the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors.

We’ve made a conscious decision to keep our client-base manageable, and we offer bespoke marketing to every home we present.

When trusting an agent with what is typically your most valuable asset, we don’t think you should expect anything less.

From our central Wokingham office, we have approaching 40 years of experience in the

Nick Harris & Teresa Ling www.quartersresidential.co.uk

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From a sales consultation to helping you find your new home, we’re here to help.

WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JULY / AUGUST 2022

Would a stairlift make your life easier?

Did you know you can rent or buy a stairlift and it can be fitted within a few days of your enquiry.

We are a local company with over 20 years’ experience in the industry.

For more information and a free no obligation quote please call us on 07517 392118.

Email: info@home-stairlifts.co.uk www.home-stairlifts.co.uk

THE WINDOW CLEANER ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

All types of windows Windows inside & out Doors, frames & sills Conservatories Gutter Vac cleaning system All year service Attention to detail Genuine competitive prices

Call Mike on 07967 00 44 26 for a free quote or email thewindowcleaner1@gmail.com WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JULY / AUGUST 2022

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

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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

LR Interiors 07725030007 www.lr-interiors.co.uk

FUNCTIONAL. BEAUTIFUL. AFFORDABLE. Last year I finished working on the design of Easthampstead Park Hotel and East Park Gym. I put together the beautiful interiors and managed the design process throughout. It was very involved, with me being responsible from concept to completion, working with the contractors day to day and styling it all myself. I managed everything from budgets to buying and deliveries too. It was a diverse project with a Palm Tree filled Orangery, Cocktail Bar, Grill Restaurant and Luxury Boutique Gym, on top of all the Hotel Bedrooms 34

and Premium Suites! That’s then all surrounded by beautiful grounds with their own resident deer.

It’s a special place indeed. It was an incredibly fulfilling project and I love going back to see it finally filled with people once again. Following that success, whilst awaiting the arrival of my little boy, I setup my own business, LR Interiors.

Nothing like a bit of motivation to make it a success! He’s now 9 months old and my business is in full swing so I know a thing or two about busy family life! I mostly design interiors WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JULY / AUGUST 2022

I make it affordable and accessible! With my background that was important to me when starting my business. I don’t come from money and so being able to work with people that are so excited to use your service is a lot of fun!

So these are the pillars of my designs: Functional. Beautiful. Affordable.

Ultimately your home should work for your family.

The layout, the storage, the materials used should all be practical and considered. This can be done alongside thoughtful design.

for businesses, with a focus on creating brand centric experiences. But people would often joke with me when they find out what I do.

“Oh could you design my house? Haha!”

So now YES, yes I can.

A lot of people also think that Interior Design is all about the newest trends. Some trends have their place as they can make you feel something but that’s just the start! I focus on timeless design.

Something you’ll love for years to come. I know that Interior Design is considered a “luxury” service but everyone deserves to live in a home that they adore! If you want a house you love to come home to, or you’re just overwhelmed by all the homeware choices, get in touch! You can find the design packages on my website or if you’re old-school and want a natter then give me a call!

Lauren Roberts - LR Interiors

I realised it’s a service that most people want but think is out of their price range. That Interior Design is some kind of posh illusive thing that’s only available to high earners. I wanted to change that. By having short turnaround design packages WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JUNE 2022

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Easthampstead Park House was built in the 1860s and is nestled in 80 acres of beautiful Berkshire countryside. This stunning Grade II listed Victorian Mansion, full of suave elegance and English charm, is situated upon a centuries old estate that was first documented in the Doomsday Book of 1086, commissioned by none other than William the Conqueror himself.

Historically the estate has been utilised as a royal hunting reserve, a local political court, a war refuge and bomb shelter, a female teacher training academy and most recently a Catholic comprehensive school and dedicated conference centre.

In late 2018, the property was acquired by boutique hoteliers Active Hospitality, who agreed to purchase the property from Bracknell Forest Council with a promise to regenerate the iconic site and make the property available for local use. Active Hospitality, after spending over £10 Million on the refurbishment works have certainly delivered on their promise, and Easthampstead Park is now the premier event destination in the area and is the perfect Berkshire location to host corporate events, conferences, weddings, and all manner of special events.

Residents and visitors to the area are welcome to make a dining or afternoon tea reservation, and to enjoy drinks from the bar. The beautifully

manicured gardens and woodlands that surround the property ensure that the dining spaces here at Easthampstead Park, are totally unique in the Wokingham and Bracknell area.

The outstanding membership-based health and fitness facility of East Park Gym, located right next to the Easthampstead Park Mansion House, is no ordinary gym. The dedicated and experienced East Park Gym team have carefully curated the space to create an immersive fitness experience hosting some of the best equipment brands available, professionally coached classes, and an exciting and dynamic gym floor and outdoor workout area.

We cordially invite you to check out historic Easthampstead Park today and would love to be considered as a venue to host YOUR next dinner, afternoon tea, drinks with friends or special event of any kind.

Contact Information: Easthampstead Park 0118 974 7576 eastpark.co.uk

GRAND DESIGN of Menswear Fashion, in Wokingham

DESIGNER - MARC DARCY We are official stockists of the designer ‘Marc Darcy’ with an affordable range of men’s formal wear and traditional vintage suits, tweed suits and work suits, plus wedding suits which are available in all age ranges.

27 Rose Street, Wokingham RG40 1XS 0118 978 1861

From the black tie style of the Summer ball at prestigious local venues such as Easthampstead Park, to making an impression on your night out with a stylish dinner suit, or perhaps you are the sharp dressed man enjoying a weekend Country retreat?

For all these occasions and more, Anthony Blay’s Summer / Autumn 2022 collection of formal and casual suits for hire or purchase will have you looking dapper.

New In - Introducing a new retail range of smart casual wear, including shirts, chinos and blazers to update every wardrobe with the latest mens fashion.

Make an appointment to see us, or just call in and see Jayne or Anna.

WEDDING SUIT

THE most important suit you will ever wear... ... and at Anthony Blay we offer luxury men’s wedding suits to hire or purchase at affordable prices. We have been the exclusive menswear shop in Wokingham for wedding suits, for many years, attracting a clientele from all over the South East, and whether you are looking for a morning suit, a modern style, a made to measure groom suit, or perhaps some hire garments - we can help.

We are proud to be the official preffered wedding suit supplier to both Easthampstead Park and Rivervale Barn wedding venues.

Visit us on Rose Street in the heart of Wokingham (with free parking at the rear of our newly refurbished shop) and speak to us to assist you.

We keep up-to-date with the latest fashions, as well as stocking timeless classic designs.

Our extensive range of bespoke Anthony Blay accessories add that finishing touch to your look. ‘’The staff at Anthony Blay are friendly, knowledgeable, had a fantastic range of wedding suits and accessories, and at the same time made the whole ‘suit trying on’ experience a joy with their amazing customer service and great sense of humour.’’ Simon.

27 Rose Street, Wokingham RG40 1XS 0118 978 1861

Rivervale Barn offers an all year round wedding venue, perfect through every season – designed within an exceptional setting.

Both a stunning ceremony room and enchanting outdoor ceremony space are available set amongst beautiful gardens and light and airy dining and reception spaces.

WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JULY / AUGUST 2022

Alongside our beautiful venue, we manage each and every wedding day from start to finish.

Offering planning throughout the lead up to each couples perfect day. Our onsite catering and events team ensure every wedding day comes to life ensuring lifelong memories are made every single day of the week!

Our venue has been expertly designed with only weddings in mind. An exclusive use venue, full of natural light with an exposed wooden frame built by proud venue owners John and Moyra Illsley. Both John and Moyra have such exceptional attention to detail they work closely with our Events team who in turn work closely with every couple to ensure every part of each wedding day is flawless from start to finish. Endless photo opportunities, fabulous food and drink created to wow every guest and unforgettable entertainment... Every wedding day is different.

We work closely with a selection of fabulous recommended suppliers offering both classic and traditional styling as well as new and trendy décor.

Nothing is impossible at Rivervale Barn, it’s the perfect spot to say ‘I DO’ surrounded by your closest friends and family.

Our goal is to host your dream wedding so you can enjoy every part of your special day.

Team@rivervalecatering.co.uk 01252 871020 39

BESPOKE WEDDING DESIGN Local Twyford florist, Beauty in Blooms has a fantastic reputation for providing bespoke, high quality wedding flowers.

We cater for everything from small intimate weddings to larger occasions.

We offer a unique service and do not have a minimum spend.

Our aim is to create the most amazing bridal flowers for your special day. beautyinblooms.co.uk Tel: 01189 344420 7 London Road, Twyford, RG10 9EGH

McCARTHY STONE GRAND DESIGNS Jacqui Priestley talks to Sara Jacks, Head of Interior Design at McCarthy Stone What is the individual design style for McCarthy Stone, or do you follow the latest trends?

As a design team, we don’t tend to rely on fast-moving seasonal trends, especially with our communal areas, we design with the customer in mind - spaces that are flexible, stylish, comfortable, and designed to last. Trends that are here to stay and have been re-imagined year after year, are where we take inspiration from for our set design schemes.

There are certainly aspects of latest trends that we feel comfortable implementing in our interior design projects, and of course our customers are free to take inspiration from wherever they like; and will have existing likes and dislikes when it comes to putting their own stamp on their apartment as you would expect.

Our current designs for the communal spaces are built around three main themes… Coastal: think calm, airy, a breathable space full of cool-toned fabrics WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JULY / AUGUST 2022

and natural textured furniture. Contemporary: a sophisticated scheme, with statement furniture and accessories, geometric patterns, mixed with bronze and antique brass accents. And Country: a vibrant mix of fun and colourful florals, botanical prints, and deep pile velvet upholstery.

When it comes to the homeowners’ individual properties, a McCarthy Stone apartment is like a blank canvas. Each comes with a modern, fitted kitchen and bathroom and open plan layout, normally with built-in appliances, and some with a balcony; but the space can be made as truly unique as the homeowner that lives there.

I have heard the phrase ‘’stylish design meets easy living’’ in connection with your homes, what does this mean?

I think we all find comfort in simple pleasures; as a design team we create environments that are low 41

maintenance yet sophisticated, with furnishings that are consistent in quality for our homeowners to enjoy at their leisure. Our main aim is to give our homeowners that optionality and encourage them to use the communal space as much or as little as they would like but most importantly, in their own way.

Creating quiet corners to relax with a book, or read the paper, lounge areas to catch up with a friend or flexible space for movie nights, light exercise classes or dancing.

A new McCarthy Stone development has had planning approved on Reading Road in Wokingham. Will these homes have a particular ‘grand design’?

Reflective of the vibrant market town, when thinking about the communal areas for this scheme an interior style will be selected that is most appropriate for the Wokingham area. Future designs are evolving to include modern joinery solutions, ambient lighting and botanical design features, so watch this space! You can follow its progress at www.mccarthyandstone.co.uk/wokingham 42

What are the latest interior trends for the Over 65’s, and are retirees these days looking for a more modern and vibrant lifestyle?

We recently surveyed over 65s on their interior design tastes and, as many of us know, there is a huge misconception about how this generation decorates their homes. Today’s retirees want top spec home security systems (a must for 50 percent), electric vehicle charging points (44 percent), Alexa (41 percent) and hive heating (29 percent). They also want walk-in wardrobes (54 percent), wet rooms (53 percent), kitchen islands (48 percent), wine fridges (35 percent) and modern art on the walls (19 percent).

What we have learned from our homeowners is that moving to a McCarthy Stone property offers them a blank canvas to inject their personality, focus on their needs, their individual style and how they want to live.

Many achieve their interior style within their apartments by incorporating key pieces to combine different styles from different eras to create a contemporary classic home. Our advice would be to use paired back functional pieces, like a modern media unit or dining table, combined with a timeless antique WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JULY / AUGUST 2022

display unit or console table, and then adding a splash of colour in artwork or accessories, this can make a space feel more layered and homely.

How do homeowners manage to reflect their own characters, and where can they find inspiring home interior design ideas?

Travel, history, magazines, online, homeware shopping. For me it’s about gaining the experiences, not just what things look like but how they feel, smell, sound. Our homeowners’ homes are enriched with their own experiences and collections of personal possessions.

When updating or re-imagining a space, it can be quite a heavy and daunting process with limitless interior styling options. Temptation is always in our way with new products and new trends, but a home doesn’t need to be magazine picture-perfect.

I’d say be inspired but stay true to your values and what is important to you.

What is your best tip you would give to someone looking for interior design inspiration?

It’s better to fill your home with things you love.

Start with items you already have and really love – what is it you love about the item? Is it the colour, pattern, texture? Sometimes it’s about re-imagining 44

the space you already have and layering the space to find a balance between old and new.

Artwork and gallery walls are a great place to start and a great way to inject personality into any room.

They needn’t be expensive or precious, but personal to you and your taste.

There are home styling events planned for later this year, including one at Loddon house in Twyford, what does this entail, and will there be future events?

We will be hosting a series of interior events at 12 developments across the country to talk about our experience designing interiors for McCarthy Stone, some top room styling advice and an overview of the current services we offer. The aim is for a hands-on afternoon, aimed at retirees who love interior design but would love to have more confidence with colour, pairing patterns, fabrics, and furniture. With an hour-long mood-boarding workshop, it’s a great opportunity to meet likeminded people, and for us to really help current and prospective homeowners find what is their personal interior style.

For more information call 0800 153 3694 or visit mccarthystone.co.uk WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JULY / AUGUST 2022

Safesite Fencing Ltd Commercial Fencing Contractor Safesite Fencing ltd have over 44 years experience supplying and installing security fencing to the commercial, industrial and public sector and with clear understanding of safeguarding within the education sector.

The range of fencing products we are offer are vast.

Here at Safesite Fencing ltd we will assess, survey and offer the fencing system fit for purpose and to suit each client’s budget.

Strong experience working with leading commercial fencing manufacturers within the UK and are able to supply and erect many security fencing and gate systems on the market. enquiries - 01182 075 700 info@safesitefencing.co.uk www.safesitefencing.co.uk Swallowfield, Reading, RG7 1TH

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

WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JULY / AUGUST 2022

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HOLME GRANGE STUDENTS WILL BE THE NEXT GENERATION OF CHANGE MAKERS. As a Sustainability and Climate Change Centre for Excellence, Holme Grange School aims to produce global citizens and informed consumers. Students are empowered to lead the changes needed to create a resilient and inclusive community. We have the first certified carbon literacy teachers in the world and we are the first eduCCate Global Gold Standard school.

We don’t just pay lip service to sustainability; it’s embedded throughout the curriculum whether that be in our Nursery or in the senior years to give children the knowledge and understanding they need and want. “Eco-councils” across each section of the school (including staff and parents) meet weekly to work on smaller scale initiatives with the Sustainable Development Goals as their guide.

Pupils work towards gaining Sustainability Badges in Prep School.

In November 2021 the whole school took part in “Mock COP”. 60 student delegates filled our hall in a UN style conference discussing progress since the Paris agreement and the work that still needs to be done. Other pupils completed a range of activities including clearing a fake oil spill, designing and building a flood-proof model house, planting crocus bulbs, creating non-for-profit businesses and discussing gender equality. Roving reporters and journalists captured the mood. We 46

even had a conference artist who sketched the plenary session.

In collaboration with Wokingham council and other schools in the borough, we want sustainability to be an essential part of every school’s syllabus and not an optional extra. Our ultimate aim is for the creation of a Sustainability GCSE. Our bespoke Climate Bravery course in Year 9 is blazing a trail towards that goal with the University of Oxford on board for a future research project. As a result, Holme Grange students will be the next generation of change makers.

www.holmegrange.org Contact: 0118 978 1566 | school@holmegrange.org WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JUNE 2022

You don’t seem to hear very much about Quaker schools but then grandiose self-promotion isn’t very Quakerly.

A little research reveals some interesting facts.

The Obama family sent their daughters to a Quaker school in the US and Sixth Form leavers at UK Quaker schools achieve some of the best academic progress in the country (the measure that UK Government uses to assess schools), with two in the top 0.5% in England. Quaker schools in the UK are open to students of all faiths and none, with the emphasis being on the Quaker values rather than religion.

Academic success has to be important in any school, but as Matthew Judd, Head at Leighton Park, identifies, there is more than one way of achieving this: “A student’s academic development cannot be understood in isolation but must be considered in conjunction with their emotional and physical wellbeing, confidence, maturity and happiness.”

Toby Spence, Head at Sibford School, adds:

“Quaker Schools offer a unique pathway...

The distinct blend of values encompassing peace, equality, tolerance, social justice, simplicity and stewardship help to frame a community where the individual is known and valued, indeed celebrated for who they are rather than which box society might like to place them in.”

Quaker schools seem to imbue gentle, civilised values - where students can develop and grow in a kind and supportive environment - with inspiration to encourage them to play an active role - or ‘Live Adventurously’ as Quakers would term it, all while achieving some of the best academic progress in the country.

With Quaker schools not predisposed to shouting about themselves too much, one is left with the distinct feeling that these schools are something of a hidden gem.

Why not visit Leighton Park School and see for yourself how a Quaker education could benefit your child?

Leighton Park School Shinfield Road, Reading, Berkshire RG2 7ED Tel 0118 987 9608 Email Admissions@leightonpark.com Website: www.leightonpark.com Facebook: @leightonparkschool Twitter: @LPSchool

YOGA AT WORK? I am seeing a real increase with interest for yoga, as the country returns to a sense of normality and we slowly return to offices, albeit on an infrequent basis, more people are engaging, either online or attending local yoga classes, or even Park Yoga Wokingham.

Working from home, ‘hybrid working’, is the new norm. It benefits employees, and certainly benefits employers, for many reasons.

So now is the time for businesses to review their health, safety and wellbeing initiatives, possibly embrace a more holistic approach to their employee wellbeing, perhaps include yoga.

Yoga is a mind and body practice, that is well known. When we work, we probably carry a degree of stress, simply to problem solve and get 48

through the day. We probably breathe at only 15% lung capacity whilst going about our stuff and we probably are sedentary for 70%+ of the working day. We are perpetually in our ‘fight and flight’ mode which is not sustainable and risking our health.

Our employers, and if you are one, have a duty of care for our wellbeing, which goes beyond some of the diluted approaches I have seen throughout my work life.

WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JULY / AUGUST 2022

• A simple yoga class, whether online or in person, will gently stress the physical form, and in doing so, teach us how to breathe to reduce the stress and calm the nervous system and the mind.

Repeating this through each posture, and sequence, develops our nervous system to react automatically to stress when we are off the mat and going about our work.

• We learn good breathing, practicing techniques that open our dormant lung capacity, building strength and flexibility around the intercostal muscles and diaphragm, so we breath naturally, more efficiently, slowing the regular heart rate.

We learn to recognise when we are not breathing effectively.

• Attempting some of the key postures that we use in yoga will teach us about our bodies, our constraints, where we need to focus our attention to recover good posture that we may have mislaid along the way through sitting at a computer, all day.

Yoga is unique in that is a physical form of training with the intention of using the breath to achieve mindful physical movement. This awareness of the breath will permit a deeper understanding of ourselves and enable us to steady our minds. The breath is the bridge between body and mind, smooth the breath, calm the mind.

This doesn’t mean that after such a short (30-40 min) class, we are all so chilled out we cannot function, far from it. When we end a yoga class, we feel invigorated, we have space to think logically and we are much calmer, exactly what our employers would want, and great for our wellbeing.

If there is space in the office, then why not run a class, or even outside if there is space?

I commend those businesses that have already adopted a holistic approach and embraced yoga, how is it with your workplace? www.richardsyoga.org Facebook - richard’s yoga

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 • JULY / AUGUST 2022

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THE TIME HAS COME TO DO MORE Many of us are encouraged to do things to actively improve our physical health but how many of us take a similar proactive approach to improving our mental health?

Sadly, mental health problems are all too common in the workplace, and it is the leading cause of sickness absence in the UK - with a staggering 70 million work days lost each year. And according to a report published by Mental Health Foundation and the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), this costs the UK economy at least £118 billion annually - around 5 percent of the UK’s GDP. Clearly the cost of mental ill-health is not simply a financial issue, but calculating the cost and impact of mental health problems can be very persuasive when making the case for investment in preventing them.

We have become much more aware of what mental health is and the impact it has on our lives no more so than through the global pandemic where employers really started to witness the impact physical distancing, social isolation, and lockdown was having on individuals.

But being more aware and talking about mental health is just the start. We have to become a nation 50

that takes a much more proactive approach towards protecting our wellbeing, and that of those around us - be it at home or in the workplace. Here are five steps to consider, and think about how you might build into your everyday life.

WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JULY / AUGUST 2022

1. Connect with others Build strong, wider social connections and relationships to help you feel happier, more secure, and give a greater sense of purpose.

5. Be mindful Pay regular attention to the present moment - to your own thoughts and feelings, and to the world around you.

2. Be active We tend to think that the mind and body are separate.

But what you do with your body can have a powerful effect on your mental wellbeing.

These are just five steps to help improve and maintain your mental health and wellbeing - there are many more tools and resources available. Surely the time has come to do more than just raise awareness of mental health in the workplace.

3. Keep learning Learning can boost your self-confidence and selfesteem, whilst helping to build a sense of purpose and a way to connect with others.

Neil Stead www.steadyconsulting.co.uk 07375 482637

4. Give to others Make small acts of kindness towards other people, or larger ones - such as volunteering in your local community. They can give you a sense of purpose, make you feel happier and more satisfied with life.

“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

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

WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JULY / AUGUST 2022

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Triumph Motorcycles & Gibson create a one-of-akind custom guitar & motorcycle for the distinguished gentleman’s ride The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride is an annual motorcycle event which raises money for charity and has multiple goals, these include raising awareness of prostate cancer and mental health, funding research and programs to help men live happier and healthier lives, breaking stereotypes of motorcyclists, and giving people a chance to raise funds for a worthy cause whilst riding their beloved machines.

Building on a shared passion for beauty, precision and performance, and inspired by the shared historical significance of the iconic 1959 Les Paul Standard and equally iconic 1959 Bonneville T120, the outcome of this unique partnership is a stunning one-of-a-kind custom edition of today’s generation of each legendary model. Created to support The DGR, in its global charity efforts for men’s mental health, prostate cancer awareness and fundraising, the 1959 Legends custom edition Les Paul Standard Reissue and Bonneville T120 feature a host of beautiful hand-detailed custom touches, designed and applied in Triumph’s factory workshop. Together, these will be offered as the highest fundraiser reward for the 2022 ride. This oneof-a-kind prize comes complete with a bespoke 1959 Legends Editions certificate of authenticity, signed 52

by Triumph CEO Nick Bloor, and Cesar Gueikian, Brand President of Gibson Brands.

TRIUMPH BONNEVILLE T120 ‘1959 LEGENDS CUSTOM EDITION’ The latest generation of this genuine motorcycle legend, the Bonneville T120, combines timeless character and style, with class defining modern capability and performance.

The 1959 Legends: Reflecting the passion that Gibson and Triumph designers share for beautiful design, precision, performance and world-class craftsmanship, the 1959 Les Paul Standard Reissue and Bonneville T120 were chosen to be hand-customised by Triumph’s WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JULY / AUGUST 2022

world-leading design team at the Triumph Factory Custom workshop in Hinckley, the global HQ and home of Triumph.

“From the very beginning we could see the DGR was something truly special that the team at Triumph were incredibly keen to be involved with, both for the cause it represented but also the great day of riding and fun of dressing dapper it delivered. We are proud to have been the main partner for the last eight years and honoured to have been able to play a part in helping grow such a positive and impactful force for good.

Across our world, from our dealers to our staff, to Triumph fans and DGR riders globally it’s very easy to see how much passion and engagement there is for this significant event and riding cause. The renewal of our partnership with The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride was a natural decision to take, based not only on the success and growth of participation that has raised Triumph’s profile, but also because we share that passion and are committed to supporting our team and the DGR community worldwide in their mission, to reach ever higher” WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JULY / AUGUST 2022

Paul Stroud.

Triumph Chief Commercial Officer Further information www.gentlemansride.com www.bulldogtriumph.com www.bulldograt.co.uk 53

NEXT ISSUE SEPTEMBER 22

WOKINGHAM LOCAL SEPTEMBER 2022

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SUMPTUOUS SUMMER BBQ

Halloumi & Pineapple Burger Ingredients

Method

• ½ red cabbage, grated • 2 carrots, grated • 100g radishes, sliced • 1 small pack coriander, chopped • 2 limes, juiced • 1 tbsp cold-pressed rapeseed oil • big pinch of chilli flakes • 1 tbsp chipotle paste • 60g halloumi, cut into 4 slices • 2 small slices of fresh pineapple • 1 Little Gem lettuce, divided into 4 lettuce cups, or 2 small seeded burger buns, cut in half, to serve.

Heat the barbecue. Put the cabbage, carrot, radish and coriander in a bowl. Pour over the lime juice, add ½ tbsp oil and the chilli flakes, then season with salt and pepper. Give everything a good mix with your hands.

This can be done a few hours before and kept in the fridge.

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Mix the remaining oil with the chipotle paste then coat the halloumi slices in the mixture. Put the halloumi slices on a sheet of foil and put on the barbecue with the pineapple (or use a searing hot griddle pan if cooking inside). Cook for 2 mins on each side until the cheese is golden, and the pineapple is beginning to caramelise. Brush the buns with the remaining chipotle oil, then put your burger buns, if using, cut-side down, on the barbecue for the last 30 seconds of cooking to toast.

Assemble your burgers with the lettuce or buns. Start with a handful of the slaw, then add halloumi and pineapple. Serve with the remaining slaw.

WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JULY / AUGUST 2022

SIMPLE & SUMPTUOUS

Summer Sides Rosemary Roast Potatoes Combine potatoes, garlic, rosemary, salt and oil in a large roasting pan. Toss well to combine.

Bake in a hot oven 200°C for 40-50 minutes or until cooked and golden. Place on a warm serving platter and drizzle with a salad dressing of your choice. Serve immediately.

Watermelon, Strawberry & Feta Salad Shake oil, vinegar and seasonings in a screw topped jar to make a dressing. Place watermelon, strawberries and mint in a serving platter or bowl and pour over the dressing, then sprinkle with mint leaves, feta and pistachios.

Serve chilled.

Fennel, Apple & Cabbage Slaw Combine fennel and apple in a large bowl.

Add lemon juice and toss to coat, then set aside.

Place your choice of herbs in a small food processor until finely chopped. (mint and parsley work well). Add mayonnaise and process again until well combined. Season with salt and pepper. Add cabbage, half the pecans and the green dressing to the fennel mixture and gently toss to combine. Serve sprinkled with remaining pecans and mint leaves.

WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JULY / AUGUST 2022

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La Tomatina Festival happens annually during the last wednesday of August.

It takes place in Buñol, a little village near Valencia, Spain, which has a population of just under 10,000 people. It is located 40 km from Valencia by bus, train or car.

The story goes, that in 1945 some young boys decided to get a place among the retinue of a parade during the town festivities. The energy of these teens meant that one participant fell down.

The participant got mad and started to hit everything in his way. Casually nearby there was a vegetable stall that fell victim of the furious crowd, and people started to pelt each other with tomatoes, until local forces intervened and ended the vegetable battle. The following year, the young people picked a quarel and started the food fight again, bringing their own tomatoes from home. Although the police broke up the early tradition, the boys had made history without being conscious of it, and it became an annual event. In the early 50’s La Tomatina was banned , by Francisco Franco due to the festival’s lack of religious importance, but the people rebelled and it was again allowed, when in 1957, as a sign of protest, the tomato burial was held.

It was a demonstration in which the residents carried a coffin with a huge tomato inside.

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The parade was accompanied by a music band which played funeral marches and it was totally successful. La Tomatina Festival was finally allowed and became an official festivity. Since then, the number of participants increased year after year as well as the excitement about La Tomatina Festival.

In 2002, La Tomatina of Buñol was declared Festivity of International Tourist Interest by the Secretary Deparment of Tourism due to its success, WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JULY / AUGUST 2022

and became well known throughout Spain.

This year, there are 30,000 participants expected, bringing people from all over the World together with locals in Buñol.

You may ask is La Tomatina a waste of food?

But people in Valencia say the tomatoes used for La Tomatina are no good for anything else. Not only are they about to start rotting, but these particular tomatoes, bought extremely cheaply from the Extremadura region of Spain are of such low quality that they were pretty much inedible to start with.

And who cleans after La Tomatina? Well, tomatoes are apparently a natural disinfectant, meaning that after La Tomatina your skin will be cleansed of impurities. The town is also left surprisingly clean, with firefighters hosing down the streets , and people after the battle.

On the 31st of August, La Tomatina Festival begins at 12am with a bang. Trucks loaded with tomatoes proceed to drive through the fight area while some locals in the back of the trucks are throwing tomatoes at the festival goers. As soon as the truck passes, everyone dives on the ground scooping for tomatoes to get themselves armed for the battle… that’s when the fun begins!

The following hour will be one of the most intense and hilarious experiences of your life.

Highlights of Buñol Bunol lies 40 kilometres inland from the city of Valencia situated on the Buñol river, surrounded by mountain ranges and agriculture. Archaeological evidence that suggests there has been civilisation in Bunol going back 50,000 years. The town is also home to the Castle of Bunol, which is a fascinating historical site in its own right. The small town is a working town of approximately 9,000 residents, involved in industry and agriculture; producing carob, almonds, citrus fruits, olives, grapes and tomatoes. Aside from the town and castle, the beautiful mountain ranges and landscape that surround Bunol make it especially worth a visit.

If you can make it during August for the Tomatina Festival, then you can expect a unique experience never to be forgotten!

WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JULY / AUGUST 2022

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