www.mywokingham.co.uk
november 2023
COMMUNITY
MyWokingham
27
Into Africa – project supporting hospitals in need
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project salvaging items that would otherwise have become landfill has developed into supporting hospitals in Africa. Throughout his career, Steve Gotting travelled to every country in Africa – and with a doctor for a father and his wife a hospital matron, he was well aware of the needs of hospitals, let alone those on the African continent. As a mason and the chairman of the Association for Friends of Prince Philip Duke of Edinburgh Court, he was perfectly placed to do some good. When the original care home on the site of Prince Philip Court was due for demolition, he stepped in. Having worked in Sierra Leone, Zimbabwe, Ghana, Kenya, Tanzania and the Gambia, he was well aware of their need for medical equipment. “I asked what items they needed and a long list came back including beds, books, tables and chairs, linen and kitchen equipment.” He immediately swung into action and retrieved what he could before the building was demolished. He organ-
ised a 40ft container and without much notice, got it loaded and shipped out. “I know the country well so I had people on the ground who took the items immediately they arrived and knew where the need was greatest.” Prince Philip Duke of Edinburgh Court is part of the Royal Masonic Benevolent Institution and with 17 homes nationally, Steve is now hoping to roll the programme out nationally as they work on upgrading each home. The next to undergo a refurbishment programme is Bury St Edmunds. “I spoke to them and explained what
we had done, saying we will help them to get the unwanted items to the right place. We can create a model over time and do even more good.” After the National Lottery, The Masons are the largest provider of funds in this country – and they not only raise money but offer support in any
way they can. One of Steve’s Mason friends provided the forklift and manpower to get all the items into the container. “I have had lots of support as nobody likes to see waste and that’s exactly what would have happened otherwise.”
Mediterranean Marvel: Olive Focaccia bread at Dust of Flour & Sugar BY NICK MARR
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read lovers, prepare to be enchanted! Dust of Flour & Sugar Bakery has crafted a masterpiece in the form of their Olive Focaccia bread that defies expectations and leaves you craving for more. The Olive Focaccia bread at Dust of Flour & Sugar is nothing short of a Mediterranean delight. From the very first bite, it becomes evident that this isn’t just any ordinary bread; it’s a culinary revelation. The exceptional taste, the perfect texture, and its incredible versatility make it a standout choice for both passionate food enthusiasts and home chefs alike. The bread’s crust boasts a delightful golden hue, beautifully crisp and glistening with just the right amount of olive oil drizzle. As you sink your teeth into it, you’ll discover a harmonious balance of soft and airy on the inside, while the exterior offers a satisfying crunch. However, the true magic lies within the bread, where the olives are embedded, providing bursts of intense flavour. These olives, with their briny and earthy notes, dance in perfect harmony with the mild sweetness of the bread’s core, creating a symphony of flavours that is simply irresistible. What sets the Olive Focaccia at Dust of Flour & Sugar apart is the quality of ingredients. The olive oil used in its creation infuses the bread with a rich, fruity, and subtly peppery undertone, elevating the overall taste to an unfor-
gettable level. It’s clear that every step of the baking process is executed with meticulous care and dedication.
If you’re wondering where to experience this culinary gem, look no further than Dust of Flour & Sugar at Holme Grange Craft Village, Heathlands Rd, Wokingham. Their commitment to excellence extends to their delivery service, ensuring that residents of Bracknell, Wokingham, and the surrounding areas can savour the magic of their Olive Focaccia from the comfort of their homes. Rating: (5/5) More details https://www.holmegrangecraftvillage.co.uk/a-dust-offlour-and-sugar-bakery/
