Reading Today, November 17, 2021

Wednesday, November 17, 2021

50 not out – Mall marks birthday with look at future

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By PHIL CREIGHTON news@rdg.today IT’S BEEN a staple of Reading, and this year it has marked its 50th anniversary.

Broad Street Mall, or the Butts Centre to those of a certain age, it has been one of Reading’s favourite places to shop since 1971.

And while Broad Street Mall will be wallowing in some nostalgia, it is firmly looking to the future, ensuring it is fit for the next 50 years of retail.

At the helm is its new general manager, Steven Connolly.

He joined just under two months ago and has been thrown into the deep end, as the Mall prepares for its busy Christmas period.

But there’s no chance of Santa getting his beard stuck as he abseils in to turn the Christmas lights on. Sadly, the ongoing covid pandemic has meant the usual ceremony has been put on ice, but the Christmas decorations are up for anyone looking for some seasonal cheer.

There will be golden jubilee celebrations to look forward to.

“We’ll be looking to do more of a celebration in the next year,” Steven promises.

“The Mall opened in two phases – we’ll be looking to commemorate that.

“We want to capture the memories of people who were in Reading at that time and perhaps were there for the opening. We will be looking for old photographs as well.

“But while we want to look back, equally it’s about looking forward. It’s about saying that Broad Street Mall has been with you for 50 years and we’re going to be with you for another 50 years, or longer.” n Continued on page 7

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WE WILL REMEMBER: Reading pauses once again • p4-5

SEARCH IS ON FOR READING’S TOP SMALL BIZ

MP launches contest in bid to back local economy

EXCLUSIVE

By PHIL CREIGHTON news@rdg.today THE SEARCH is on for the best small business in Reading East, ahead of this year’s Small Business Saturday.

MP Matt Rodda is asking

constituents to let him know who deserves to be awarded the title, be it a one-man band or one that makes a difference with a number of employees.

Categories open include the hospitality sector, clothing, wellbeing, home, hobbies, pets and services. n Continued on page 32

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HOW TO GET IN TOUCH WITH US Due to the coronavirus, our offices are closed to the public. The best way to contact us is by email Email news@rdg.today Newsroom: 0118 327 2662 Advertising: 0118 327 2662 Write to: Reading Today, Crown House, 231 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS Publisher • David Riley Editor • Phil Creighton Deputy editor • Jess Warren Reporters • Laura Scardarella, Nat Burton Sports reporter • Andy Preston Graphic designer • Charlotte Simpson The Wokingham Paper Ltd publications are regulated by IPSO – the Independent Press Standards Organisation. If you have a complaint about a Wokingham Paper Ltd publication in print or online, you should, in the first instance email: editor@wokingham.today. If it is not resolved to your satisfaction, you should contact IPSO by telephone: 0300 123 2220, or visit its website: www.ipso.co.uk.

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A MEMORIAL service will be held this weekend to highlight transgender suicides.

Reading Pride’s MyUmbrella LGBT+ project has held a Transgender Day of Remembrance Vigil since 2015 to remember lives lost.

This year’s event will take place on Saturday.

A small private gathering of community leaders from across the Thames Valley will be streamed on the organisation’s Facebook and YouTube pages.

Christina Dearlove, co-founder of MyUmbrella+, said that the event is important to raise awareness of the issues trans people face.

She said: “I can understand why so many trans people are drawn to suicide because I’ve been there a number of times myself.”

Speakers at the event will include

TOP COP: Steve Raffield is the new commander for the Reading policing area

SERVICE: Christina Dearlove, co-founder of MyUmbrella+, said that the Transgender Day of Remembrance Vigil is important to raise awareness of the issues trans people face Cllr Jason Brock, leader of Reading borough council, and Asifa Lahore, an openly transgender Muslim drag queen.

Reading Rock Choir has recorded a special performance at Reading Minster for the event.

Lucy Hewes, the choir’s leader, said: “Music is a powerful way for us to connect with each other and to reflect on those who are no longer with us.”

n For more details, visit: readingpride. co.uk

Whitley Wood man who killed pedestrian jailed for eight years DRUG DRIVER: Aaron Clare killed a pedestrian following a police chase in May last year

By PHIL CREIGHTON news@rdg.today A WHITLEY Wood man has been jailed for eight years for causing death by dangerous driving.

Aaron Clare, 33 and of Lexington Grove, was sentenced at Reading Crown Court after pleading guilty at an earlier hearing.

He is also banned from driving for 10 years.

Last year, on Saturday, May 23, Thames Valley Police officers saw a blue BMW being driven by Clare travelling at high speed on the A4 Bath Road and commenced a pursuit.

The vehicle failed to stop for officers.

Shortly afterwards, the BMW was involved in a collision with a pedestrian, 41-year-old Kevin Burgess, who died.

New police chief for Reading area

Clare was later found to be over the limit for drugs as well as driving without a license and also driving without insurance.

He was also disqualified from driving at the time of the incident.

The incident was investigated by the Independent Office for

Police Conduct who found no case against the officers involved in the case.

Investigating officer Detective Sergeant Darren Brown, of the Serious Collision Investigation Unit at Thames Valley Police, said: “Clare’s actions in driving were incredibly reckless. He was

unlicensed, uninsured and had taken drugs.

“He was pursued by police officers who noticed his erratic driving, but his driving was so dangerous that the officers were forced to cancel the pursuit.

“Tragically, he then went on to cause the death of Kevin Burgess.

He took the decision to drive and to put innocent people in extreme danger, and as such he will now be spending a significant amount of time in prison.

“I hope that this needless tragedy serves as a warning to other road users of the consequences of dangerous driving, and I hope that today’s sentence helps Kevin’s family in some way to begin the process of moving on with their lives.”

SUPERINTENDENT Steve Raffield was appointed as the new Commander for the Reading Local Policing Area on Monday, November 1.

He joined Thames Valley Police after starting his career in Bracknell in 1993.

Superintendent Raffield has since worked in a range of roles across the force, including uniformed response, neighbourhood policing, CID roles and as Detective Chief Inspector crime manager for Milton Keynes.

He said: “I am really pleased to be taking up the role of Reading LPA Commander and returning to an area of the Force where I first started my career.

“I am very keen to build upon the excellent partnership working, which is in place and will bring continued focus on serious violence and knife crime, domestic abuse, and continuing to make Reading a safe place for people to live, work and visit.”

Vandals damage car in Tilehurst A VEHICLE was damaged in Tilehurst and police are appealing for witnesses to come forward.

The incident happened between 4.30pm on Sunday, October 31, and 1.30pm on Monday, November 1, to an unidentified vehicle parked in Trelawney Drive.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Thames Valley Police, by calling 101 and quoting reference 43210493937.

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Wednesday, November 17, 2021 READINGTODAY.ONLINE

NEWS | 3

APPEAL: Police are asking motorists with dashcam footage to come forward Picture: Steve Smyth

Motorcyclist dies after collision VISIT: Rudolph Walker CBE hosted a drama class for the senior students at StageAbility. Picture: StageAbility

EastEnders star visits theatre school

By LAURA SCARDARELLA lscardarella@wokingham.today

AN EASTENDERS star treated students to a special drama class at a Reading theatre school earlier this month.

Rudolph Walker CBE, who has played Patrick Trueman in the TV soap for 20 years, made a special visit to senior pupils at StageAbility on Thursday, November 4.

The school, which runs drama classes in across Wokingham and Reading for children aged five to 18, focuses on building pupils’ confidence and self-esteem.

And the well-known actor lended the students his support to their latest project, BULLY, an Australian play written by Kristen Doherty.

With more than 50 characters, the play is a collection of vignettes, including short scenes, monologues and duologues revolving around the issue of bullying.

Every scene is based on real life accounts and events, and the individuals were able to write or devise their own scenes into it.

Back in the summer, the theatre school ran a week-long drama project for students aged 13 and over.

The group explored the themes of a play and rehearsed it across the week, performing it on stage.

After the show, some parents suggested that StageAbility approach secondary schools with the project.

StageAbility owner, Jackie Stuart, said: “I am excited by this prospect, as is the director, and we are very keen to pursue the idea.

“It would benefit so many parties, including the school, the young audience and our performers.”

Ms Stuart said that the content of the play is relevant to young people.

She said: “It’s thought provoking and, when delivered by peers, can

be an incredibly powerful tool in the fight against bullying, whatever form it may take.”

And when Rudolph heard about this he decided to offer his support, as part of his own charity, the Rudolph Walker Foundation.

The organisation helps young people in deprived areas in London develop their confidence through drama.

Rudolph told the StageAbility pupils stories about his early life in Trinidad and the start of his acting career in the UK. Ms Stuart said it was a treat for the students to hear from someone who has made a career of acting.

“It’s good for them to know about the struggles that a career in acting can bring, but also a delight to hear of the successes,” she said.

The actor, who also appeared

Plan ahead to help reduce NHS demand, say health leaders A CAMPAIGN has been launched to reduce pressure on NHS services over the winter period.

The public are being asked to do their bit to reduce demand on services as winter approaches.

They are being encouraged to keep medicine cabinets stocked to treat colds and minor illnesses at home and to make use of NHS 111 online services.

The importance of supporting vulnerable relatives and getting Covid-19 and flu vaccines was also stressed.

Gerry Crawford, regional director of Berkshire Healthcare NHS Foundation

Trust, highlighted the importance of knowing where to get the right help.

“Getting the right support early, whether it is advice from your pharmacist for a cold or bug, or self-referring to our Talking Therapies service for support with your mental health can make a difference,” he said.

Patients are being reminded to only use Royal Berkshire Hospital’s emergency department in the case of life-threatening emergencies.

It is already seeing high levels of demand, with more than 400 people arriving daily.

Steve McManus, chief

executive officer at Royal Berkshire NHS Foundation Trust, said: “We will always be there to provide support and help but would strongly encourage the public to help reduce pressure and ensure everyone is able to access the health and social care support they need.”

Dr Abid Irfan, clinical chair of Berkshire West Clinical Commissioning Group, added: “By supporting this Winter campaign, you can help your local NHS services over the next few months.” n For more information, visit: royalberkshire.nhs.uk/ winter or: talkingtherapies. berkshirehealthcare.nhs.uk

in the 1970s sitcom Love Thy Neighbour, watched the class work through scenes from BULLY. And he gave some words of wisdom to the pupils on delivering their performances.

“Rudolph’s advice and feedback were fabulous to witness, and I have no doubt that the students have gained so much from this visit,” Ms Stuart added.

“I’d like to say a massive thank you to Rudolph for taking time out to lend his support and I hope we can work with The Rudolph Walker Foundation in the future.”

StageAbility is now preparing for its upcoming pantomime, Robin Hood, which will be performed at The Whitty Theatre, Wokingham, on Saturday, December 4. n For more details, log on to: berkshire.stageability.co.uk

A MOTORCYCLIST has died following a road traffic collision in Grazeley Green.

Now Thames Valley Police is appealing for witnesses to come forward.

The incident took place around 9.40am on Friday, November 12, in Fullers Lane.

Police said it involved a white Mercedes Sprinter van and a black Lexmoto motorcycle.

The motorcyclist was 24, and his family are being supported by specially trained officers.

Investigating officer Sergeant Ed Crofts of the Thames Valley Police Roads Policing Unit said: “This was a tragic incident, and our thoughts are with the friends and family of the young man who has sadly died as a result.

“I am looking for any witnesses who have not already come forward to contact us, in particular anyone with any dash camera footage of the motorcycle or van prior to the collision.

“If you have any details which you think can help, please contact us on 101, quoting reference number 43210511715.”

Thieves break into home and steal van A VAN has been stolen from a home in Woodley.

Thames Valley Police said that around 2am on Thursday, November 11, thieves broke into a home in Wallace Close, stealing the van’s keys from the dining room table.

The vehicle is a blue Transit Custom Limited Van, with a distinctive dent in its rear.

Police are hoping that any witnesses or people with CCTV, doorbell or dashcam footage will come forward, as it will help their investigation.

Anyone with information is asked to report it using an online form, or call 101 with reference number 43210509770.

Alternatively, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously via their website or on 0800 555 111.

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READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, November 17, 2021

REMEMBRANCE 2021

We will remember them – Reading pays its respects

By PHIL CREIGHTON news@rdg.today THEY CAME out in their hundreds, with one aim in mind: to pay their respects.

Reading gathered around the Forbury Memorial on Sunday for a short remembrance service, complete with a twominute silence to honour those who gave their lives in armed conflicts.

The morning’s events started with a church service at Reading Minster.

Scripture readings were given by James Puxley, Lord Lieutenant of the Royal County of Berkshire, Major Robert Whittle, OC C (Berkshire) Company, 7th Battalion, The RIFLES, and the Mayor of Reading, Cllr David Stevens.

As people left the church, the 7 Rifles formed up in St Mary’s

Butts to lead a civic parade through Broad Street and into The Forbury.

In the procession were members of The Waterloo Band and the Rifles’ buglers, as well as dignitaries, councillors, Scouts and other uniformed organisations.

After the two-minute silence, a number of wreaths were laid by veterans, serving personnel, councillors, Reading East MP Matt Rodda, among others.

In a post on social media after the event, outgoing mayor Cllr Stevens said: “The Borough of Reading remembered the fallen with a full service at Reading Minster.

“The parade to the Cenotaph in the Forbury was followed with another service and a two minute silence.

“As Mayor I would like to thank everyone who came this

morning to pay their respects.

‘Lest We Forget’.”

At the same time, there were similar gatherings across the borough in churches and in communities.

One of the largest was in Tilehurst, attended by deputy mayor Cllr Rachel Eden.

The Salvation Army band played at this, while Scouts, Beavers, Guides and Sea Cadets joined in with a parade from The Triangle to the Royal British Legion base in Downing Road.

It is not the only event held

by Tilehurst residents for the Legion’s appeal. On Thursday, November 11, they asked people to donate small change to make a poppy with.

In all, they raised £1,187.15.

And the Turn Tilehurst Red campaign challenged people to create Remembrance-themed displays.

Wednesday, November 17, 2021 READINGTODAY.ONLINE

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Reading pictures: Dijana Capan Tilehurst pictures: Steve Smyth

REMEMBRANCE 2021 Tilehurst remembers

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Thieves force lock of Reading shed A SHED in west Reading has been broken in to by thieves.

The raid happened overnight between Sunday, November 7, and Monday, November 8.

The raiders forced the lock and hinges of the shed in Branksome Court, off Prospect Street.

Nothing was stolen.

However, Police are hoping that any witnesses or people with CCTV, doorbell or dashcam footage will come forward, as it will help their investigation.

Anyone with information is asked to report it using an online form, or call 101 with reference number 43210504385.

Quiz night at Reading pub A GENERAL knowledge quiz is coming to a Reading pub this weekend.

The Hope and Bear on London Road hosts the weekly event on Sundays from 7pm.

Teams of up to seven can tackle themed rounds such as music or a picture round.

Entry is £2 per person, with the winning team taking the pot.

The pub is on London Road.

n For more details, or to book, log on to: www.hopeandbearreading. co.uk

READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, November 17, 2021

A&E demand soars: ‘Only come to us if there’s a genuine emergency’

By JESS WARREN news@rdg.today

THE CHIEF executive of the Royal Berkshire Hospital is encouraging residents to seek alternative care outside of the Emergency Department when possible.

Steve McManus said that the hospital has seen a 20% rise in patients attending the A&E Department, compared to 2019/20 levels, with the majority of these being walkins.

It comes as South Central Ambulance Service declared a critical incident earlier this month, reporting around a 13% rise in 999 calls, compared to 2019.

Mr McManus said that this is a broader picture of the region, but that the RBH is not seeing a significant rise in patients arriving by ambulance and needing a hospital bed. He said some of the walk-in patients may be able to use other healthcare routes instead.

“People should come to us if there is a genuine emergency, such as significant illness or injury,” he said. “There are a range of other community and primary care services, and we are working to increase on-theday GP access.”

This includes recently

APPEAL: Royal Berkshire Hospital chief executive Steve McManus is warning of the pressures his team are facing opening a new health hub in Whitley, he said.

Capacity has increased for an additional 170 on the day GP appointments, across Berkshire West CCG. “We have also expanded our same day emergency service,” he said.

“It means we can deal with it on-the-day, as we have capacity elsewhere on the hospital site.

“It gives the option of being treated rapidly, but outside of the Emergency Department, to keep the flow moving for

those who need that emergency support.”

A spokesperson for South Central Ambulance Service said that it is under significant pressure and at its highest alert level, along with all other ambulance trusts in England.

“The Trust remains very busy and has been for some time now, and it is clear the busy winter period is going to be more challenging than ever this year.”

They said that111 demand is around 30% higher than expected.

“We have seen a significant change in demand patterns, with more calls during the week and later into the evenings,” the spokesperson said.

“Demand has increased across all types of conditions, but in particular for those under five, where flu and other respiratory conditions have seen a significant increase above expected levels.

“We continue to prioritise those patients with the greatest need. Unfortunately those who are less poorly will wait longer than we would like.”

The Trust urged residents who can to use NHS 111 online, as an alternative way to access support throughout the day.

Mr McManus said he feels trepidation when thinking about the impact of the winter on the NHS. “Staff have been working hard and flat-out for months now,” he said. “It feels very pressured, and I know people are tired.”

Mr McManus said he is “hugely proud” of the team, and their commitment to Berkshire West.

“I know they will continue to give 100%,” he added.

But to help the hospital, he is urging residents to do what they can to manage their health over the winter.

He suggests having medication at home and ready to help residents care for themselves through the flu season, where possible.

And he called on people to research the different services available for their health needs.

Mr McManus said there are two additional pressures on his team at the hospital.

“The volume of covid patients coming through has steadily increased, and that is a concern as we go into the winter,” he said. “We are promoting the value of the vaccine and, for those who are eligible, the booster jab, and the seasonal flu vaccine.”

This increase in covid demand has also been documented by South Central Ambulance Service for the fourth consecutive week.

Beyond pandemic pressures, the hospital is also working on elective services.

“We have been keeping these going alongside cancer treatment and diagnostic services,” the chief executive explained.

“I am proud of the team for how they have balanced that, and restarted those planned services.”

He hopes more can be done to help accelerate the reduction in wait times.

KEY TIME: Reading’s Lead Councillor for Housing Ellie Emberson and Battle ward councillor Gul Khan receive the keys from NFC Homes’ Richard Hibbert

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Caversham affordable housing project marks start of £80 million project AN AFFORDABLE homes project is opening doors.

The keys to four new properties on George Street, Caversham, were handed over to representatives from Reading Borough Council earlier this month.

They will go to residents on Reading’s housing register.

It is hoped that the modern development will set a new benchmark for council housing standards.

Fittings are aimed at giving an improved look and feel for tenants, and include built-in wardrobes and towel rails.

The two ground floor flats and two two-bed maisonettes have also been built with the council’s environmental targets in mind.

The properties have solar panels, triple glazing and low energy water systems.

Cllr Ellie Emberson, the councils’ lead for housing, is impressed by the development.

“We want to provide high standard, affordable homes that those on our housing register can take great pride in calling home,” she said.

“George Street achieves that.”

The completion of the build marks the beginning of an £80

million, four-year project to provide more than 300 affordable homes across the borough.

The plan includes provision for adult social care, sheltered housing, key worker homes and those on the housing register.

As part of the project, the council aims to revive more derelict buildings and unused land for housing.

The programme has builds in progress across the borough.

A new development on Lyndhurst Road, Tilehurst, will become home to 18 families early next year.

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Broad Street Mall celebrates its 50th by looking forward NEW MAN AT THE TOP: Broad Street Mall manager Steven Connolly

n Continued from front page

Broad Street Mall manager Steven Connolly adds: “We are that establishment that is not going anywhere, but is equally going to go there with you.”

That might sound paradoxical, but Steven says it’s about ensuring the core values of Broad Street Mall remain, while the centre keeps evolving to meet the needs of the present day shopper, whatever that need is.

After all, go back five, 10, 20, or 40 years and the range of stores was very, very different, and there was a food court where Wilko is now.

Other big changes in recent years have seen Argos leave and The Biscuit Factory come in, as well as the launch of the NHS Walk-In Centre.

The Mall never stands still.

“We are not changing from being the type of shopping centre that we are: absolutely in the heart of the community of Reading,” Steven promises. “We always have been, and we always will be.

“We welcome the community, we welcome working with them. That is our way of being a good neighbour.”

Covid has affected retail everywhere, and we’ve seen some big names retreat from the High Street in recent months: Debenhams has left The Oracle, GAP is now online only, and Top Shop, a main stay for teenagers since the 60s, has gone to the great catwalk in the sky.

However, Steven is far from gloomy about Broad Street Mall’s place in the retail landscape.

“The opportunities are obviously the future for Reading and the Broad Street Mall. If you look at all the development that’s going on in Reading, you look at all the investment that’s coming into the town, you look at what Network Rail has done for the train station, it’s fantastic,” Steven says.

He feels that many London-based businesses will be looking to the towns and cities on the outskirts of the capital that have excellent transport links.

“It doesn’t take much research to see that when you’re looking for that sort of outer circle, there’s few places that are set up as well as Reading, from a public transport infrastructure to the road network, and access to Heathrow and Gatwick,” he says about the bigger picture, before coming closer to his home: “Broad Street Mall is a brilliant community shopping centre,” he continues. “It has the right range of stores and restaurants and cafes that a community shopping centre needs. It’s perfect for a town like Reading.”

Steven feels that the Mall’s offering complements the shops on Broad Street and in The Oracle really well, while the town has cultural destinations such as the Abbey Quarter, and Forbury Gardens.

“You’ve got a really nice linear arrangement that is already set up in Reading, which most towns would bite your right arm off for,” he says. “We need to all work together to make the most of that environment, looking to the future, planning what the future of Reading could look like.

“I feel we’re at the start of that road. A lot of work has already been done and there’s the opportunity to be involved and help shape that future so that Reading can capitalise on its natural resources, for want of a better term.

“Broad Street Mall is firmly part of that longterm future.”

When the Mall was conceived, it was one of the first of its kind in the country, an indoor shopping environment with a solid mixture of stores, dreamt up in the post-war period and planned at the height of the swinging sixties.

“Reading was very much at the forefront when it took on the Mall, offering a shiny new future,” Steven explains.

Now, 50 years on, that future might seem space age, but Steven says the Mall’s owners are

FESTIVE WISHES: Children can post letters to Santa at the Broad Street Mall’s North Pole Post Office

Mall’s mail will go straight to Santa

very much looking forward.

“It’s about changing consumer needs, which are evolving and will continue to evolve,” he says. “Our role is to anticipate some of those changes and start to deliver on them.

“Part of that is absolutely The Biscuit Factory, Spinner (mini-golf and bowling) and ThaiGrr. They’re great new tenants that support some of our longer-standing occupiers like Boswells and Headmasters, which have been there for quite some time.

“We have a number of tenants here that have been here for some time and are evolving their businesses to match and exceed the expectations and needs of our customers.

“Most are really focused on the needs of the person walking in the door. That’s an important factor. Consumer interaction, that personal touch, is critical if we are to maintain ourselves as this successful shopping centre.

“Everyone knows we can shop online, and we all do. Online is not going away, it’s getting that balance.

“The way you make a difference is by adding personality and make the interaction more one-on-one so it’s not impersonal. I think that’s something we can amplify and do more of.”

Steven adds: “The death of the High Street has been predicted for as long as I’ve been in the industry, but we’ve still got a very vibrant High Street. We all want to go out, we’re not hermits, we’re not going to stay indoors all the time.

“I think you can see that from the relief of people coming out the pandemic: they love the interaction, they love being with other humans and shopping in the real world.

“Yes, our needs are going to change from when we first started in 1971, but every business changes.”

While the big party for the Mall is on hold, Christmas is still happening. The Mall’s decorations are up and include some interactive

features such as Angels Wings which are perfect for festive snaps.

Steven is pleased they are there, given the stop-start nature of retail since March 2020.

“We’re looking forward to welcoming as many people as possible back into Broad Street Mall for their Christmas shopping.

“We want to reassure people that Broad Street Mall is as safe as it can be. We want to see you back shopping on the high street, and we want you to enjoy the environment for Christmas.

“We’ve got our angel wings, we’ve got a swing bench coming in as well. Just come in and enjoy, take your pictures, have a sit down on the bench.”

And the bench is special for Steven. “A bench is about putting an arm around a loved one, just maybe taking a moment to say, ‘It’s been a tough time we’ve all gone through, just sit here and have a little swing together’.

“Let’s just enjoy the moment.

“It’s important to remember we’re all human beings and, if you can, give someone a hug.”

Happy birthday, Broad Street Mall.

SANTA’S little helpers will be spreading Christmas cheer at Broad Street Mall.

Customers can visit the North Pole Post Office to write a letter to Father Christmas and post it in the centre’s magical post box.

And the chosen few will receive a free personalised letter from Lapland direct to their doorstep.

The North Pole Post Office is open from 11am to 4pm on weekends.

And the last post collection date will be on Sunday, December 12, to ensure that Santa’s workshop has time to act on every request.

And every Saturday, there will be the chance to meet some festive characters around the mall.

Visitors can pose for a photo at one of the centre’s seasonal selfie spots.

The centre is inviting customers to enjoy a mince pie while listening to Christmas carols by community choir Moving On. Performances will be at 1pm on Friday, November 26, Friday, December 3, and Thursday, December 23.

Steven Connolly, centre manager at Broad Street Mall, said: “This year we really wanted to spread some traditional Christmas cheer and offer families a chance to experience some free, fun, festive activities.

“With our ever-expanding range of big brand, independent stores and local stall holders, we are ready to help make this Christmas one to remember.”

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To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today FROM SMALL ACORNS: 48 new trees will be planted across Reading thanks to the £40,000 funding

Reading secures funding for new trees

NEW TREES will soon be appearing across Reading borough, thanks to a government grant.

The award of £20,000 from The Urban Trees Challenge Fund has been matched by Reading Borough Council.

The UTCF is being delivered by the Forestry Commission as part of their work to expand woodlands and tree cover across England.

The money was secured by a joint venture between Ethical Reading, Reading Tree Wardens and the borough council.

It means that trees will be planted by the council over the next two years, which will water them for three years to ensure that they take root.

Reading Tree Wardens will lead on community engagement with Ethical Reading, administering the project and gathering data on

the impact of the new trees in the community.

It is hoped that the trees will improve the urban environment and increase biodiversity.

Gurprit Singh, Ethical Reading founding director, said: “This was a brilliant team effort. We were thrilled to be able to share the news that we have got a ‘yes’.”

Anna Iwaschkin, coordinator for Reading Tree Wardens, added: “This funding will benefit areas around schools and medical centres in lowcanopy parts of town.”

The project forms part of the council’s new tree strategy that aims for 3,000 new trees to be planted on council land by 2030.

n For more information, visit: www.readingtreewardens.org. uk/ or: www.ethicalreading.org. uk/trees-for-reading

READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, November 17, 2021

New app to help residents improve their wellness

By LAURA SCARDARELLA lscardarella@rdg.today

AN APP has launched to encourage Berkshire residents to take healthy actions to improve their wellbeing and the environment.

The Innovation Valley app, which is free to users, has been created through the Thames Valley Berkshire Live Lab. As part of the national £22.9 million ADEPT Smart Place programme, it will assist authorities in enhancing air quality, public health, roads and energy infrastructure.

The project, led by Reading Borough Council, aims to make changes to travel across the county, thanks to a £4.95 million investment in technology trials.

Cllr Tony Page, Reading Borough Council’s lead member for strategic environment, planning and transport, said: “This is a really exciting project, as collaborating with other local authorities to test a whole range of innovative technological initiatives could have a major impact on the services we are able to provide and our ability to keep traffic flowing as efficiently

INNOVATIVE: The Innovation Valley app is part of the Thames Valley Berkshire Live Lab initiative and works on mobile phones as possible in the future.

“By pooling our resources and sharing information, we are able to observe the future of traffic and transport today and make plans that will benefit residents across the whole county.”

BACK ON THE WHEELS: Brookfields School, in Tilehurst, asked The Silvers’ Workshop if they could repair and reburbish a muchloved trike.

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Residents will be advised to log when they are taking positive, healthy actions including walking, running or cycling, to earn reward points.

Points earned can be used for discounts from a range of shopping brands.

Tilehurst students get much-loved trike back A SPECIAL educational needs school (SEN) had a helping hand to repair its trike earlier this month.

Brookfields School, on Sage Road, Tilehurst, received its newly repaired and refurbished trike back from The Silvers’ Workshop.

The Reading-based charity, which began its association with Brookfields in 2017, helps the school with a number of woodwork projects.

The team members of the Silvers’ Workshop came to visit the staff and students to see the trike in action.

Pupils Jayden and John were chosen to give a demonstration.

The school’s head of key stage, Kirsty Simmonds, said they use the trike daily.

She explained that it has great accessibility and is easy, stable and sturdy.

“The pupils enjoy having the support with stability required to

enable them to access the trike,” she said.

“They enjoy taking turns and joining in with games around the track.

“It helps pupils with regulation and in turn supports the curriculum, and they benefit from being able to access the same activity as some of their friends but without the pressure of balancing on two wheels.”

Ms Simmonds explained that it also helps supports the students with their well-being.

Fundraiser Charlotte Wilshire praised the work of the Silvers’ Workshop.

“Since our first contact o ver four years ago we have been delighted to work with the team, and the school has really benefited from all the work that they have done for us,” she said.

“We hope this collaboration will continue for many years.”

Produced by Better Points, individuals will be able make more informed travel choices, thanks to the new app.

It would help improve the residents experience of travel around the county and improve highways management.

Four specialist cameras have been installed in waste collection vehicles, 30 air quality sensors have been put in some council buildings and energy management systems are in place to help councils move towards their environmental targets.

The range of trials are being run in conjunction with O2, Siemens, Smarter Grid Solutions, Stantec, Shoothill and the University of Reading.

“We are pleased to see this exciting development in the Thames Valley Live Lab, engaging local communities with the transport network to deliver improved outcomes for all,” Live Labs programme director Giles Perkins said.

“Understanding the impacts we all have upon our environment will become an imperative as we navigate climate change and we’re pleased to see Thames Valley embrace such thinking as part of the Live Lab.”

Police launch knife amnesty across Reading A KNIFE amnesty is taking place across the Reading area this week.

Operation Spectre is running across the Thames Valley Police through to Sunday.

The aim is to reduce the threat of knife crime in the region, and comes just days after two stabbings in the area – one in Tilehurst and another in Whitley.

Special bins will be set up to allow people to anonymously dispose of any type of knife or bladed article.

A spokesperson for Thames Valley Police said: “The aims of the operation are to remove dangerous weapons from the streets, reduce knife crime, and raise awareness of the dangers and consequences of carrying a knife.”

Permanent knife amnesty bins are located in Loddon Valley and Reading police stations, and knife amnesty bins will be placed in Waitrose Car Park in Caversham; Cintra Park; Coley Park Community Centre; Kensington Park; Orts Road; and Tilehurst Triangle.

The spokesperson added: “If you have any information about the possession of knives or criminal activity relating to this type of crime, please report online via our website or call 101.

“Alternatively, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers 100% anonymously on 0800 555 111.”

Wednesday, November 17, 2021 READINGTODAY.ONLINE

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Thieves strike early in the morning to steal bike EARLY morning thieves stole a bicycle.

The incident took place between 6am and 9am on Friday, November 5, at an address in Havergate Way in Whitley.

Police say that the burglar forced the lock on a shed, and took the bike away with them.

Anyone with information is asked to report it using an online form, or call 101 with reference number 43210503107.

Numberplates stolen from car in Calcot THAMES Valley Police have reported that numberplates were taken from a car in Wheatlands Close in Calcot.

The theft happened at some point on Tuesday, November 9.

Police are hoping that any witnesses or people with CCTV, doorbell or dashcam footage will come forward, as it will help their investigation.

Anyone with information is asked to report it using an online form, or call 101 with reference number 43210507695.

OWNERS: Mike and Luci Clayton-Jones

HAPPY HOUR: Customers celebrate the third anniversary of Double Barrelled Brewery Pictures: Dijana Capan

Three cheers for brewery’s anniversary A TILEHURST brewery celebrated its third birthday in style last weekend.

Double-Barrelled Brewery on Stadium Way hosted more than 350 craft ale fans at a special taproom event held on Saturday, November 13.

Tickets sold out online, making it one of the biggest events the brewery has held since it launched in 2018, and its busiest this year.

As there was no second birthday party due to coronavirus restrictions in place last year, this year’s event was all the more special.

“We wanted to hold a big event to make up for not

being able to last year,” their spokesperson said.

The party atmosphere was enjoyed by a mixture of regulars and supporters who had travelled from across the country to be there. There was a selection of street food for revellers to enjoy alongside their drinks.

Entertainment was provided by several Berkshirebased bands including doops, a Reading-based three-piece indie band being supported by BBC Music Introducing.

Three beers were brewed specially for the occasion, including Everything but the Bulbs, an imperial stout inspired by Reading’s three

B’s: beer, biscuits and bulbs.

The company is owned by husband and wife team Mike and Luci Clayton-Jones, who are keen to highlight the work of their close-knit team of staff and pride in being a Reading-based business.

“Everyone worked together on it,” a spokesperson said.

“We’re about being proud of where we’re from.”

The three birthday beers are now available to buy. They join flagship beers Parka, a pale ale, and Ding, short for Reading, which is a German style lager. n For more information, visit: doublebarrelled.co.uk

ON TAP: Beer being served

BIRTHDAY: Some of the cans on offer RAISE YOUR GLASSES: Hundreds of people flocked to the brewery to celebrate the birthday

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READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, November 17, 2021

How to choose the right care home: top tips from Murdoch House

When looking for a care home for you or your loved one, the choice can seem overwhelming.

Here are some factors to consider that may help with your decision.

Care types The type of care you’re looking for will start to narrow down your choices.

For advice on the kind of care you’re looking for, speak to a local GP or social services department.

Location Should the home be near where you live now or further away? Staying close to your current home means that you’ll be able to keep in touch with friends and neighbours. Moving away, perhaps to be closer to grown up children, might allow them to visit more often.

Likes and dislikes This is where the individual homes will start to stand out.

Keen gardeners might want to consider homes with large grounds where they can carry on their hobby – or you may prefer a home with a buzzing social and activities calendar.

Pay them a visit Make sure you look round the care homes on your shortlist to meet the team and get a feel for the atmosphere in the home.

‘Rated good across all areas’ January 2021

FAMILY FESTIVITIES: Owner Billy Williams said ticket sales went through the roof when the winter wonderland event launched All pictures: Dijana Capan

Winter Wonderland returns to Caversham with festive flair EXCLUSIVE

By LAURA SCARDARELLA lscardarella@wokingham.today READING Winter Wonderland made its return to the borough last Saturday with entertainment, rides and family-fun for all.

The event, which is being held at Hills Meadow car park, in Caversham, will run until Monday, January 3.

With more than 20 rides and attractions, Reading Winter Wonderland includes an ice-rink, an Apres ski bar, a Santa’s grotto, and, new for this year, is a bavarian slide.

Other rides include the Monkey World, a children’s rollercoaster and a mirror maze.

Food options include the event’s

main provider, The German Sausage Company, which is offering a selection of Bratwurst sausages and burgers.

Owner Billy Williams said he was very happy with the attendance on the opening day.

“The ticket sales went through the roof on Friday night and it turned out to be a very good first day,” he said.

“Families will make plenty of memories when they come and visit us, which is something they missed out on last year.

“We’ve got everything here, a massive ice rink, food, and rides for both adults and children.”

The event’s Apres Ski Bar is also providing alcoholic drinks for adults.

Mr Williams added: “With this now being our seventh year, it’s a tradition for families to come and visit us now.

“It’s such a nice, family-friendly event, it’s great location where you can see down the River Thames and we are excited to be welcoming everyone back.”

For unlimited rides and iceskating, adult tickets cost £25.And for unlimited rides only it’s £20.

Ice-skating for adults is £13.50 and £11 for children, students and concessions.

And a ticket for a family of four is £40.The event will be open from 10am until 10pm. n For more details, or to book tickets, visit the Reading Winter Wonderland Facebook page.

ICE: The rink was open for families to enjoy some skating

Murdoch House provides residential and respite care. For more information, call our friendly team today on: 0118 911 7019 Murdoch House Care Home 1 Murdoch Road, Wokingham, Berkshire, RG40 2DL www.fshc.co.uk/murdochhouse

FUN FOR ALL: The event features a Monkey World, a children’s rollercoaster and a mirror maze, as well as bavarian slide and Santa’s grotto

A VIEW FROM ABOVE: Visitors enjoying the ferris wheel can view the wonderland site from the sky

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Wednesday, November 17, 2021 READINGTODAY.ONLINE

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READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, November 17, 2021

Say farewell to tower thanks to

By JAMES HASTINGS news@rdg.oday IT’S been part of the town skyline for over a hundred years, but it will soon be gone.

JABBED: Billy Bragg was at The Hexagon on Wednesday, November 10

Why Rich, Jules and Anthony are delighted with their new hankies SIX new members of a morris dancing side have each been presented with the tools of their hobby – a pair of hankies, two long sticks and one short stick, writes Sue Corcoran.

Hurst Morris People (HuMP) made the presentations to their new dancers at Hurst Village Hall where the side has practised for 32 years.

Squire (the group’s leader) Karen Ricketts said: “I handed over the sticks and hankies to officially mark them joining the side. They’ve been dancing with us since our ‘have a go’ sessions in September.

“It’s great to have so many enthusiastic new members. On Thursday last week they practised Jenny Lind from the Lichfield dance tradition and then performed it to the rest of the side. It was a good first performance.

“HuMP are really looking forward to dancing out in public again next year for the first time in two years.”

The new recruits are having fun.

Rich Mason is a freelance book designer and lives in Wokingham.

He said: “They’re a friendly bunch of people who have made me feel very welcome. It’s fun and a good workout.”

Jules Dracott of Winnersh, who is a disability advisor at the London School of Economics, said: “We always like to try something different. It just appealed to us because it’s something very different.”

Her husband Anthony, an IT manager, said: “We’re enjoying learning how to morris dance with such a friendly group of people.” n For more on the group, log on to www.hump.org. uk

Billy Bragg gets a boost from Broad St Mall

NORMALLY when acts visit Reading for a gig they check in and check out, but Billy Bragg had an extra reason for being here.

The singer was playing at The Hexagon on Wednesday, November 10, as part of his latest tour.

The show celebrates his new album, The Million Things That Never Happened.

On his website, he says: “It was always my intention to record a new album in 2021.

“I’d planned to spend most of 2020 on the road, where I could crank out ideas for new songs in soundchecks and maybe even try a few in the live set.

“Things didn’t quite work out that way, of course.”

He says that the album isn’t about the pandemic per se, but

some of the “highs and lows” inform it.

His visit to Reading was part of a tour that continues until the end of the month, before he travels to Australia and New Zealand next month.

The singer enjoyed his visit to Reading, praising the audience.

Before leaving the town, he popped into Reading’s Broad Street Mall where he got his covid booster jab.

“It was always my intention to record a new album in 2021,” he wrote on Facebook.

“I’d planned to spend most of 2020 on the road, where I could crank out ideas for new songs in soundchecks and maybe even try a few in the live set.

“Things didn’t quite work out that way, of course.”

When dinosaurs roamed the university’s museum A LIFE-SIZE model of a dinosaur bird was unveiled at the University of Reading’s museum last week.

Visitors of the Cole Museum, in the health and life sciences builing, on Whiteknights campus, will be able to see an accurate recreation of an Archaeopteryx.

First discovered in Germany, an Archaeopteryx, meaning ancient feather, lived around 150 million years ago measuring at 50cm long.

The model displays updated features of the reptile including its scaley feet and feathered body.

These are based on the latest fossil evidence by its creator Bob Nicholls.

And from Mr Nicholls research, he has included shaggier, black flight feathers on the back of the legs and feet, and striking yellow colouring around its eyes.

Professor Amanda Callaghan, curator of the Cole Museum at the University of Reading, can’t wait to unleash the model to their visitors.

“We are grateful to world-class paleoartist Bob for the time and research that has gone into creating one of the most up-to-date models of this dinosaur species ever seen,” she said.

The artist chose to add orange and yellow colouring around the

Work to demolish the huge East Reading gas tower has begun, creating a new landscape unfamiliar to generations of families in Newtown and beyond.

In its place around 130 luxury flats will be built causing anger among many locals that only four will be available at affordable prices.

Leslee Barron has lived in the shadow of the gas tower for more than 20 years and chronicled it from every angle. She has helped put together an exhibition about this iconic landmark which runs for two days at St. John and St. Stephen’s Church in Orts Road.

“I think it is a structure many people love and dislike at the same time,” she explained.

“Of course it is huge and dominates the area, but it also has an elegance as well as providing a practical use for decades.

“When you approach Reading by train or road or are walking into Newtown, a sight of the tower lets you know you are nearly home. In the past you could tell the weather depending if the tanks were high or low.

“It has been derelict for a while and the demolition has started but no one could dispute this achievement of industrial architecture has inspired people over many years to photograph or paint it in its many moods and views.”

Leslee said there is anger that the luxury flats will be priced out of the reach of local people.

“I don’t think there will be a rush to buy them, in fact there were a lot of objections when they were first mentioned. There is also concern about a lack of facilities and infrastructure in the area to support so many new residents.”

GOING: The gas tower as seen from Newtown The tower exhibition includes a variety of artworks and stories including the popular children’s book, Alina Saves the Moon.

There are also photographs and accounts of the tower’s construction and views down the ages.

Free soft drinks at Greene King pubs for designated drivers this Christmas snout and eyes, while the rest of the creature’s body is coloured brown and white, to blend in with the shrubby desert islands and salt-water lagoons from prehistoric Europe.

The museum is set to reopen its doors to the public before the end of the year.

“Whether or not you know this winged beast from its appearances in well-known films, this is an Archaeopteryx as you’ve never seen it before,” she said.

The unveiling this week was accompanied by a public lecture by Mr Nicholls about how Archaeopteryx lived and how he created the updated model.

IT’S the time to eat, drink and be merry … as long as you’re not the designated driver, in which case you should just eat and be merry.

To help, a pub chain is joining up with Coca-Cola to launch a hero driver campaign during the Christmas party season.

It runs in every Green King pub, including The Outlook in King’s Road and the Rose and Thistle in Argyle Road, The Wee Waif in Charvil and the Two Poplars in Wokingham.

The campaign was originally a buy-one-get-one-free offer but this year there are prizes of up to £500 of shopping vouchers, alongside a guaranteed prize of a free bottle of Coca-Cola, Diet Coke or Coca-Cola Zero Sugar.

Everyone taking part is guaranteed to get a voucher for a free 330ml

bottle of Coke and will also be in with a chance of winning additional prizes from there.

Other prizes include £100 Red Letter Days vouchers and £25 Greene King gift cards.

A customer buys a Coca-Cola drink from any Greene King pub, scan a QR code on posters in the venue, and the logo on their bottle, can or glass. They will then receive a voucher and find out if they have won.

Ashleigh Egan, trade marketing controller at Greene King, said: “Celebrating Christmas at the pub with friends and family is sadly something that many of us did not have the chance to do in 2020, and reuniting at the pub for Christmas this year is going to be incredibly special.

Wednesday, November 17, 2021 READINGTODAY.ONLINE

o Reading’s gas o new exhibition

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Roger has plenty of Crunch ... and some Bubbles

READ ON: Roger Flavell has created The Adventures of Colonel Crunch, a new picture book that all ages will enjoy

n Picture: Phil Creighton Leslee hopes a small part of the structure could be saved: “It would be wonderful if we could obtain a number of the steel segments which could be made into a bench.

“It could be located in the Newtown Community Gardens as a reminder of

the once mighty tower.”

n The exhibition is held over two days, Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 Doors are open 10am-4pm on Saturday and 1pm4pm on Sunday. Artists are donating 20% of any sales to the Reading Refugee Group.

A MUSICIAN has launched his first book for children.

Roger Flavell, of Marlow, released The Adventures of Colonel Crunch and Friends, which is aimed at ages five to eight.

The story follows ex-military man Colonel Crunch, who, with his friends, gets up to various adventures.

The group likes to make up inventions and see if they work.

Author Roger Flavell said: “I am very pleased to have seen the recent publication of my first book.

“As a musician and songwriter, it seemed like a natural progress to go on to writing a book.”

Mr Flavell added that he envisioned Colonel Crunch a while ago then the other characters just fell into place.

“To some extent, one has to draw on experiences of life in order to write stories,” he said.

“Colonel Crunch’s sidekick is a scientist named Professor Bubbles and together they like to try and invent things with differing degrees of success.

“And along with the other folk that they know in their locality, they get up to all sorts of things.”

Mr Flavell explained that there is also a nod to green issues in a several of the 10 stories in the book.

He added: “I do hope that the book will be enjoyed by those who read it, and by the parents who might like to read it to their children.”

The book is available to order online or at a bookshop in the borough.

Mr Flavell will also be playing in the orchestra pit at The Hexagon for this year’s pantomime, Beauty and the Beast. n For more details, visit theadventuresofcolonelcrunch.co.uk

POETRY CORNER

The paintings of lonely people at a lively party

BUY A COCA-COLA AND YOU WILL WIN A SECOND ONE AT GREENE KING PUBS THIS CHRISTMAS “That’s why we’re investing Christmas party and family group more than ever in Coca-Cola’s Hero who are choosing not to drink alcohol the Driver campaign to champion so they can safely drive people home the designated drivers from each at the end of the night.”

Friday- midnight; slipping into the weekend, disco lights, beer pong and rap battles. a college Fiesta; Couples, singles, complicated concoctions, drink some orange juice, hog on cheese pizzas, chill with the boys, talk to women. Talk about the newest 007, impress them with your useless talents and question them about their broken family- in that order.

A spirit reborn, from the heap, the music reverberates, lonely within; The neon lights reflect on the pink wall, there hang by the clock Edward Hopper’s five-inch paintings, floating through lonely.

My spine curling into a claw, iced tea, my politics, my audience sit solemn too. A party commences, myself and the lively characters from the whiteboard, listening.

Aishwarya Khale

We love reading your poetry, send us your submissions to news@rdg.today

BLOCKBUSTER: William Morgan has recreated his favourite cinema in Minecraft

If you can’t go to the movies, why not recreate the magic of Winnersh?

A movie-loving eight-year-old boy from Reading has recreated his local cinema by using his favourite video game Minecraft.

Talented William Morgan began building Showcase Cinema de Lux Reading during lockdown because he missed making regular film trips with his family.

After toiling away on the complex digital build for weeks, the talented gamer has finally put the last brick in place.

The extraordinary digital build includes the full exterior of the cinema and a series of interior designs, including the concession stand and one of the 14 cinema screens at the Winnersh location.

William completed the build using Minecraft on his Nintendo Switch, which allows users to use blocks to build structures inside a virtual 3D world.

His unique creation caught the eye of the bosses at Showcase Cinemas, who invited William and his family to a movie of their choice as their guests, as a thank you for paying homage to Showcase Cinema de Lux Reading.

William said: “I missed going to Showcase so much because they have the biggest screens and really comfy seats.”

Dad Tim added: “William really missed going to the cinema during lockdown, so decided to focus on the next best thing – building the cinema himself.

“He is absolutely over the moon that Showcase love his creation as much as we do.

We had a great time visiting recently and can’t wait to be back again soon.”

Mark Barlow, UK general manager for Showcase Cinemas, said: “We’re thrilled to see William’s incredible recreation of our Winnersh cinema. His digital version of the cinema is extremely close to real life and William has shown a huge amount of talent to pull it off.

“When William began building, the cinema was closed due to the national lockdown, but we are delighted to now be back fully open.

“We have been in touch with William and his family to thank them for the incredible tribute to our Winnersh cinema and were delighted to welcome them as our guests, with William able to enjoy his digital masterpiece in real life.”

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The amazing transformation that has given Reading a new theatre

Save date for plastic-free event AN ECO-FRIENDLY festive fundraiser will take place in Caversham next month.

Plastic Free Caversham, founded by business owner Anne-Marie Evans and Caversham councillor Ayo Sokale, will host a range of activities for the community to enjoy.

The group aims to work with residents, businesses and schools to assist them in becoming more sustainable.

The dress-to-impress event will include a raffle, familyfriendly activities and ecofriendly crafting workshops.

Held at the Weller Centre, on Amersham Road, the fundraiser will run from 2pm until 6pm on Saturday, December 4.

Visitors can scan the QR code on the event’s poster to reserve a space.

And a suggested donation of £1 can be made on the door.

All funds raised will go towards environmental causes.

By LAURA SCARDARELLA news@rdg.today

AFTER finishing its first show of the season, Reading Rep Theatre has now showcased it’s fully transformed building to the public.

Following a two-year programme, the company, on Kings Road, Reading, opened its doors last month with DORIAN, displaying the new aspects of the theatre.

The fundraiser, which raised more than £1 million, saw the theatre renovate a former Salvation Army building and turn it into Reading’s new cultural arts hub.

The improvements included work on the front of house area, a new ventilation system throughout the building, LED lighting, new gender neutral toilets, indoor and outdoor bar seating area, rehearsal space and dressing rooms.

The 163-seat auditorium includes a lower portion of retractable seating, which provides flexibility with a large open space making it fully accessible.

Nick Thompson, executive director of Reading Rep Theatre, said: “This theatre was built in the shadow of the pandemic, during a truly unprecedented time.

NEW LEASE OF LIFE: The Reading Rep Theatre is now open Picture: Simon Kennedy “Despite the many challenges, it was always heartening to know that, brick by brick, we were building something that would play a role in healing, sharing and celebrating better times.”

The theatre received contributions from multiple trusts, foundations and supporters to put towards the work, which is now fully complete.

Artistic director Paul Stacey said he can’t wait to welcome back audiences to the new venue.

“Dave Hughes has done an incredible job of turning this old Salvation Army Hall into Reading’s first-ever professional producing theatre, a cultural hub for a town emerging out of isolation, “ he said.

“Having grown up in the town, it’s a really special moment for Reading Rep, and for Reading.

“We’ve finally got the resources to realise our ambitions and put Reading on the national cultural map.”

Gig night SARAH JANE MORRIS will perform at the Emmbrook Sports and Social Club in Wokingham on Friday, November 26, as part of the Wokingham Music Club. For details, log on to www.ticketsource.co.uk/ wokinghammusicclub

n For more details, visit: readingrep.com

Communities urged to sign up to new Thames Valley Speedwatch campaign SPEEDING motorists beware … you are being watched.

Bracknell MP James Sunderland joined with Thames Valley Police and Crime Commissioner Matthew Barber last week to launch a new Speedwatch initiative.

They met at South Hill Park, where Mr Barber explained that the scheme allows communities to launch their own speedwatching programmes, using equipment he can supply that will work with Thames Valley Police.

Previous schemes had seen residents use their own machines, which didn’t meet the necessary specifications.

“We ran a pilot last year, we’re now in the process of rolling it out to existing groups to provide better support,” he said. “The data local people can gather is feed into Thames Valley Police to make sure that local neighbourhood teams and roads policing get the real picture about the scale of speeding in our communities.”

He added: “From spring next year, we’ll be looking to recruit more people to the schemes, and funding a new project which will allow more people to join a community Speedwatch.

“I’ll be providing the equipment and the training to make sure we can have a bigger impact.”

Mr Sunderland said: “The

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SPEED TEST: Matthew Barber (far left) and Bracknell MP James Sunderland (second from right) at the launch of the new speedwatch initiative on Friday Picture: Phil Creighton reason why it’s so important is because there’s a problem with antisocial driving, traffic noise and excessive speed.

“It’s really important that we curb it and adopt a zerotolerance approach.

“I would urge the entire community to please get behind this, develop your own teams locally and let’s solve this problem.”

Before community teams are able to attend the roadside, they undergo a number of training sessions, to ensure risk assessments have been

completed and protocols have been adhered to.

PC Lee Turnham, Thames Valley Police Community Speedwatch Co-ordinator, said: “The pilot scheme has been running since April and has proven to be a platform of which individuals and the police are able to work seamlessly.

“To that end, I am really pleased that the new platform will now be rolled out across Thames Valley within the next three months.” n For more details, log on to www.thamesvalley-pcc.gov.uk

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A business park that is changing

Reading Buses shortlisted for award after pandemic READING BUSES has been shortlisted as Leadership Team of the Year in the Thames Valley 250 Awards. It is for the company’s dedication to keeping the local area moving during the height of the Coronavirus pandemic.

Robert Williams, Chief Executive Officer said: “The awards are only open to the 250 top performing businesses (by turnover) based in the Thames Valley region.

“I felt that an entry in this category would rightly reflect what a great locally based senior team I’m delighted to lead, and the significant effort that has gone in dealing with covid while also keeping the business afloat.”

He said that businesses have faced huge challenges over the last 18 months. Reading Buses was an example of this as services needed to keep running even though people were being advised not to use them by the Government.

“Keeping key workers connected, and an organisation running, when the vast majority of employees can’t work from home - drivers, cleaners and engineers - and the majority of your income has

disappeared, and then attempting to build back, has been a huge challenge,” he said.

“Our leadership team have done a great job in keeping things going by maintaining processes, working tirelessly to ensure the correct service levels are running and that all employees were safe and well themselves.”

And Mr Williams praised all staff for their work during the various lockdowns over the past 18 months.

“Clearly, such an achievement is not possible without a fantastic team of frontline employees, including our drivers and those behind the scenes in engineering and support roles,” he said.

Peter Laurie, Senior Adviser at event organiser The Business Magazine which runs the awards, said: “The judges were impressed by the quality of entries during such a challenging and uncertain period.

“Once again, Thames Valley businesses have shown real strength in their growth, innovation and leadership.”

The winners will be announced on Thursday, November 18, during a dinner at Easthampstead Park.

Search is on for Reading East’s best small business n from front page

The only criteria is that they are based within the Reading East area.

Nominations are open right up until noon on Friday, December 3, with the winner being announced on Small Business Saturday – December 4.

The day is a grassroots campaign that wants people to shop local and support small businesses in the community. Many Reading businesses take part.

This year, there will be the extra sparkle caused by Mr Rodda’s awards.

He told Reading Today they were an important way of letting Reading folk show their support for smaller businesses after the pandemic, with many facing disruptions caused by rising costs, inflation and supply chain problems.

“Small businesses are the backbone of our economy and our communities,” he said. “They create jobs and provide vital services to local people.

“The pandemic has caused real and lasting difficulty for many of them. I want to give them a helping hand by shining a light on their contribution by

running a competition to find the best local businesses in our area.”

He said that inviting people to nominate businesses was important as it meant the pool to judge would be “as wide as possible”, and that so far there had been a good response.

“Personal experience matters,” he added. “This is an opportunity to talk

about people who have done a great job, often in difficult circumstances. It’s something to celebrate what’s going on.

“We should celebrate the whole small business sector.”

He added: “I want to try and make this as interactive as we possibly can, to try and make easy for people to get involved.”

To this end, Mr Rodda has set up a special nomination form on his website, and will be posting regular updates on social media so people can see what is going on.

The nomination form gives people a chance to explain why the small business should be considered to be given the Small Business award.

Some of the inspiration for the contest came from Mr Rodda’s role as shadow minister for pensions.

He said that he had been to a number of conferences where he had learnt more about the sector.

“It’s been really interesting to discuss with businesses all the time, it gives some perspective,” he said.

n To take part, log on to mattroddamp. com/2021-sbsat

New estate agency launches second branch after nine months trading

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WHEREVER He lays his hat, that’s his home.

A Wokingham estate agent is celebrating expansion with its new Crowthorne office.

Hat and Home launched at the beginning of the year, and this week opened its doors to its second branch, in the village’s High Street.

The independent agency is owned by Ben Gee, who is thrilled with the expansion, and says that its aim is to make moving home a fantastic experience. A big promise when it is said it is one of the most stressful experiences.

Mr Gee has walked the walk: he has more than 20 years’ experience in the industry including stints at Foxtons and Marsh & Parsons, where he served as its regional director, leaving last year to set up Hat & Home.

“We want our customers to feel compelled to recommend us which means we need to deliver an excellent service and a great result,” he said.

The office has a unique look: exposed brickwork, retro industrial furniture and a smattering of bowler hats adorn the premises.

And the company’s values are also on display.

Director Luke Strzadala said: “Hat and Home offices are

NOW HOME: Ben Gee has launched a new Crowthorone branch of Hat & Home

designed to reflect the brand values so they are deliberately inviting and friendly.

“Whether you are looking to buy, sell, let or rent our doors are always open and you are guaranteed a warm welcome.”

To make a splash, the company is offering a special introductory rate: it will sell homes 0.5% commission plus

VAT, while lettings can be instructed for 5% plus VAT. It is also offering a donation to Parkinson’s UK for every home in the village that displays a Hat & Home for sale board with a special ‘Hello Crowthorne’ message.

So far this year, he has raised more than £10,000 for the charity.

BUSINESS | 33

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A business park that is changing

Teachers go back to school to boost STEM learning THE skills are alive with the sound of learning.

A new initiative from Thames Valley Berkshire LEP will help schools boost their STEM teaching.

The LEP has made a successful bid to help teachers gain industry experience that they wouldn’t otherwise get from working in the classroom.

The scheme, called Beyond The Classroom, is a partnership with Pathways CTM and the Careers & Enterprise company.

Initially, 20 teachers from 10 schools will take part.

Each will leave the classroom to gain vital experience with employers. They can then share their experience across different school communities.

The LEP hopes that this will become a blueprint that embeds specific industry knowledge into the STEM curriculum.

Sian Burnett, Enterprise Coordinator and Hub Incubation Project Manager at Thames Valley Berkshire LEP, said: “We are delighted to have been successful in our bid to the Careers and Enterprise Company, to fund the

delivery of such a crucial project for our local schools & colleges.

“Embedding careers in the curriculum is something many schools and colleges in Berkshire would like to strengthen and we are thrilled to fund a dedicated project in support of this.

“In working alongside Pathway CTM we hope to see high quality experiences for teachers, employers and students, leading to lifelong learning and resources that can be shared across the Berkshire Enterprise Adviser Network and the Careers and Enterprise Company.”

And Chris McNamara, founder and CEO of Pathway CTM, said they were pleased to be able to partner with Thames Valley Berkshire LEP. “This project is a great initiative and one we cannot wait to get started on, working with key employers in the area, to make a real meaningful impact on how schools and employers can work together to improve curriculum learning,” he said.

“We are looking forward to being involved in more innovative work with the CEC and the LEP over 2021-22.”

Jobs on special offer at Broad Street Mall

JRL INTEGRATED CONSTRUCTION SOLULTIONS HAD KEYRINGS AND PENS ON ITS STALL PICTURE: Phil Creighton

By Phil Creighton pcreighton@wokingham.today

BROAD STREET MALL welcomed job hunters as well as shoppers on Friday, November 13.

The Reading town centre centre welcomed the Reading Job Fest and Career Expo.

A number of businesses had stalls where people could find out more about opportunities available to them.

They included Blue Arrow, which highlighted a range of jobs in different industries, and Wokingham Borough Council coowned care provider Optalis.

Café Boswell, which has a branch in the Mall, explained about its vacancies, as did Caffe Nero, McDonald’s and KFC. Other stalls included JD Sports, Hilton Reading Hotel, Midgard Construction and Marks & Spencer.

The popular event was organised

by Broad St Mall in conjunction with Reading UK CIC and the Department for Work and Pensions.

s a m t s Chri IS g n i m Co GOAL: A state-of-the-art gym and sports performance training facility at Winnersh Triangle recently raised more than £1,000 for SportsAid

Fitness day helps Winnersh Triangle gym raise £1,000 for SportsAid A state-of-the-art gym and sports performance training facility at Winnersh Triangle recently raised more than £1,000 for SportsAid with a Charity Fitness Fun Day. MOVE HQ held a series of sporting events including a five-a-side football match on a brand-new Astroturf pitch, with Move HQ’s co-owner and former Manchester City defender Nedum Onuoha captaining.

The event also included yoga for adults and children and strength and conditioning classes.

A silent auction and raffle with signed football tops, Active Health treatments and Move HQ memberships were announced and given out by Nedum Onuoha.

Mark Munroe, director at MOVE HQ, said: “We were delighted to welcome everyone to MOVE HQ and show the new

astro turf pitch at Winnersh Triangle.

“It was great to have Krua Koson who are based in Winnersh, serving their fantastic Thai street food to everyone that attended.

“We have been really amazed by the local support from everyone and are so pleased with the money for SportsAid, which enriches the lives of talented young athletes.”

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Arts venue awarded £1,000 grant from John Sykes Foundation

We are looking for more drivers

THE RISING Sun arts centre has received a £1,000 boost from a grant making body.

The John Sykes Foundation, which aims to improve the lives of individuals and communities within the borough, awarded the Silver Street venue with the cash, which can be put towards improvements in the building.

The centre runs a full programme of arts events in visual arts, music, dance, poetry and theatre.

Earlier this year, Rising Sun Arts launched a fundraising campaign, which has raised more than £7,000 so far.

The venue recently installed a new ventilation unit to provide a safe space for volunteers and the public.

Larry Watson, manager of the Rising Sun Arts Centre, said: “The task facing the organisation is to reconnect with volunteers and groups and re-engage volunteer teams in order to restart the centre’s programme and open up the space to people once again.”

SUPPORT: John Sykes presents a cheque for £1,000 to The Rising Sun Mr Watson said volunteers are currently running a variety of fundraising activities alongside the venue’s crowdfunding campaign.

He said: “This grant from the John

Sykes Foundation has been a morale boost and re-energised our volunteer fundraising team putting us within an achievable distance of our target.

“It would ensure a much-loved

and well used venue is able to return to providing the safe, creative, energetic, collaborative, space which people depend upon.”

Mr Watson added the grant will enable the centre to continue to contribute to the well-being of people in Reading.

And it would help the space to emerge from the most difficult period in its 30 year history.

John Sykes, founder of the John Sykes Foundation, said he is excited to award a grant to Rising Sun Arts Centre.

“We hope that with the installation of the ventilation system it will encourage the groups that rely on safe space to return to their full capacity to engage its service users and return to some normality,” he said.

“It is part of our ongoing commitment to work hand in hand with local groups and charities to enable them, in some cases, to restart their projects since the pandemic.” n For more details, visit risingsunartscentre.org

More than 9,000 residents due a refund on their council tax

By TEVYE MARKSON Local Democracy Reporter MORE than 9,000 Reading residents are owed a share of £1.6 million in council tax refunds with the average refund due being £168.

Reading Borough Council currently owes £1,647,678.91 of overpaid council tax to its residents, revealed by an investigation by the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

The Freedom of Information request found that the council is also owed more than £77 million in unpaid council tax by residents.

Who does the council owe?

There are 9,778 overpaid accounts in the borough in total.

And one person is owed £7,732.58 — the highest refund.

The authority says that there are THE MILL AT SONNING PRESENTS

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a number of reasons why accounts are overpaid, including people paying in advance and then moving out of the borough and council tax bands being altered.

A spokesman for Reading Borough Council said: “When someone pays by direct debit, the council is able, in most instances, to refund the overpaid council tax quickly into their bank account.

“This is not always possible for people who pay by other methods however.

“Credit applications are always sent with adjustment notices advising the credit, and detailing how to claim the refund.

“These are issued to the forwarding address, or their last known address.

“If someone has moved out of the area and not provided their

forwarding address, it is not always possible to trace them.”

They said the council has a system in place to monitor credits on an ongoing basis and proactively refund credit balances.

“Credit balances remain on the accounts in recognition of the fact that they may be claimed at any point and a credit balance would only be written off as a last resort when there is no realistic prospect of locating the council taxpayer,” they added.

Why the council writes off some debts The

council

is

owed

£77,156,032.96 by taxpayers. Last year, Reading Borough Council’s council tax collection rate was 95% but this will rise to 99% as payments are pursued, a council spokesman said.

They added: “In terms of residents who owe council tax, we do not hold specific or accurate data on reasons for non-payment.

The council will however actively pursue all council tax debts owed.

“In the case of customers who abscond, who are subject to insolvency action or where the debt is statute barred, the council may consider the debt is suitable to be written-off as a last resort.”

Young people in Tilehurst Police recognised at call for more youth spaces awards ceremony A SURVEY of young people in Tilehurst shows a desire for more youth spaces.

The questionnaire received more than 1,050 responses from teenagers keen to tell Tilehurst Parish Council what they need in the area.

An early review of the answers has shown that priorities include mental health support, places to meet and have fun, creative arts and sports activities.

The parish council will take the findings back to the community at a meeting to be held later this month.

Recommendations shaped by the meeting will be presented to the parish council in December.

The project is being supported

by Berkshire Youth and Thames Valley Police.

Cllr Clive Taylor, chair of the parish youth and community working group, says the project shows what can be done at parish level.

He thanked the young people who responded, and said: “We are taking their views very seriously.

“This would not have been so successful without the help of Denefield and Little Heath schools who welcomed the opportunity and helped engage students to respond.”

The meeting will be held at the Cornwell Centre between 2pm to 4pm, on Saturday, November 27.

Booking is encouraged, to help plan light refreshments. n For more information, email: bookings@tilehurstpc.co.uk or visit: www.berkshireyouth.co.uk

THE WINNERS of the Community Policing Awards 2021 were revealed at a ceremony last week.

The awards, which took place at The Great Barn, in Oxfordshire, recognise the efforts of Thames Valley Police’s neighbourhood policing teams.

Running for its 20th year, members of the public, police and its partner agencies nominated team members they felt enhanced the Thames Valley Police service.

The nominations were looked at and reviewed by a judging panel chaired by temporary assistant chief constable Christian Bunt.

T/ACC Bunt said: “The Community Policing Awards give residents, community organisations, businesses and colleagues the opportunity to

recognise members of our force who they think have gone above and beyond the call of duty to make a difference to local people and communities.

“The response we received for 2021 was excellent and it was inspiring to see the difference the winners and other nominees are making to the everyday lives of residents in the Thames Valley.”

There were 11 winners including PC Colin Boyes and PCSO Will Jones from Berkshire.

T/ACC Bunt said selecting the winners was a challenging but rewarding experience.

He said: “I would like to congratulate all of this year’s winners for their hard work and dedication.”

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Tesco TikTok singing sensation is heading to the West End

By JAMES HASTINGS news@rdg.today A READING woman is swapping the supermarket aisles for the West End stage after her videos were viewed by millions.

A RALLY was held by people protesting against covid restrictions and vaccinations on Saturday. It took place in Forbury Gardens, and saw several people speak on the issue. On Monday, the Government announced that the booster jab campaign would be extended to the over 40s.

Five-year plan for Reading’s buses READING Borough Council is bidding for government funding to improve bus services.

The Bus Service Improvement Plan outlines how the council and local bus operators will work together to deliver a better passenger experience over the next five years.

It has been drawn up in an effort to secure a share of £3 billion available to local councils from a central government funding package to help with covid recovery. It is also intended to reform bus services in the greater Reading area.

Prior to the pandemic, Reading boasted the second highest bus use per person in England outside of London, with more than 20 million passenger journeys every year.

Cllr Tony Page, the borough council’s lead for strategic environment, planning and transport, believes that Reading’s case is a strong one.

“A key thread through our strategy is working in partnership with all of Reading’s bus operators and neighbouring local authorities,” he said.

“A number of the future

ambitions outlined in the document – such as integrated local ticketing between operators and lower and simpler fares – require a level of cooperation across operators and the council.”

The plan includes other measures, such as further decarbonising the bus fleet and increasing passenger safety.

The BSIP was discussed at the meeting of the strategic environment, planning and transport committee held last night, after we had gone to press.

n For more information, visit www.reading.gov.uk/BSIP

Carol singing for refugees A CHARITY Gospel carol service is to return.

The event will take place at Reading Minster on Friday, December 17.

The fundraiser is a joint venture between Reading Refugee Support Group and Reading Community Gospel Choir.

The choir won BBC Gospel Choir of the Year in 2019, a title they currently retain due to covid.

This year’s event promises to be a Christmas carol service with a difference, with gospel choir style renditions of favourite carols and a retelling of the Nativity story through the eyes of refugees.

A spokesperson for RRSG said:

“We are unbelievably excited for the return of our concert after a two-year wait.”

Following the recent Afghanistan crisis, the number of refugees needing the support of RRSG in Berkshire has increased.

The money raised will help provide mental health support, social activities, practical help and advice for the many families in need.

The 2019 concert sold out and raised thousands of pounds for RRSG. This year’s concert will be followed by mulled wine, mince pies and baklava.

n For more information, visit: rrsg.org. uk/gospel-carols-service

Hannah Lowther, 24, was forced to take a job at Tesco when theatres shut during the coronavirus pandemic.

But the star struck singer decided the show was not over and posted videos to TikTok in between stacking shelves.

Now Hannah is checking out of her supermarket job to appear in the hit West End show, Heathers The Musical.

Theatre bosses spotted the talented performer whose videos have had millions of hits and offered her a leading role.

“It’s been amazing, it’s been such an amazing experience so far,” smiled Hannah.

“I submitted some self-tape auditions and I didn’t expect anything, because when it isn’t an in-person audition you just kind of send your stuff off and forget about it.

“Then I heard back on Saturday that I had got the job and obviously I was just beside

myself because it’s my first West End contract.”

Hannah will play New Wave Girl in the ensemble and is also the understudy for two of the lead characters.

She said: “After such a long time of not doing it and just thinking that I was going to have to get a normal job and I was going to have to go down different routes and try different things.

“It’s just given me so much hope and I started rehearsals on Monday. We have just over

AN APPRENTICESHIP scheme at Reading Borough Council welcomed its first recruits earlier this autumn and they are settling in well.

The scheme is open to new recruits and existing staff members.

Three new apprentices joined the housing repairs and maintenance team in September. and are receiving practical skills training in painting and decorating, kitchen fitting, and renewable and solar energy in homes.

They are expected to complete some academic learning as part of the course.

Painting and decorating apprentice Keela said that so far she is having a good experience. She hopes to pursue a career in the trade.

“I’m learning the proper techniques,’’ she said, “skills I can use in future jobs and in everyday life.”

In addition, four existing staff in the

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highways team are being supported by the scheme. They began construction plant operators apprenticeships earlier this year.

This involves learning how to control and manage heavy machinery commonly used on building sites.

One of the apprentices has been employed by the borough council for eight years. He can see the benefits to his career as well as to residents.

Jordan Brookson, a senior team member, said: “The apprenticeship gives me training and qualifications to operate extra machinery. Residents are getting a worker who can do more while out on jobs.”

The year-long courses will lead to full accreditation in due course.

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two weeks of rehearsals and then we open on Thursday, November 25.”

Local shoppers at Tesco will miss the talented singer but Hannah is determined she’ll now be singing for her supper: “I started doing TikTok, not thinking really that anyone would see them, I was just doing it to get that ‘stageyness’ out of me,” she said.

“It started with me doing a mock Tesco version of Nine To Five by Dolly Parton and now I’m in a West End show.”

Council’s apprentices are settling in nicely

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INTHECOMMUNITY WELCOME: Council leader Jason Brock welcomed the new mayor and deputy mayor at a special ceremony today.

Picture: RBC

New Reading mayor and deputy to be installed at ceremony tonight A NEW mayor and deputy mayor of Reading will step into their roles at the Mayor Making Ceremony today.

The rearranged event, which usually takes place in May, was postponed this year due to the pandemic.

The council extended the mayoralty of Cllr David Stevens until November after a disruptive mayoral year in 2020 to 2021.

Cllr Stevens’ 18-month mayoralty comes to an end today, and Cllr Rachel Eden will serve for the rest of the current municipal year, and then for a full year from May 2022.

Cllr Jason Brock, Reading Borough Council leader, said: “On behalf of everyone in the town, our thanks go to Councillor Stevens for the tremendous job he has done as mayor in what has been a uniquely difficult 18 months.

“David represented the town with great dignity in the days and weeks that followed the horrific events at Forbury Gardens in June last year, and I would like to place on record my own personal thanks for the support he gave me in the aftermath.”

Cllr Brock added it was the correct decision to extend the Mayoral term by six months.

“As is the custom, the current deputy mayor, Cllr Rachel Eden, will now become our nominated candidate for the mayoralty. The intention is that Cllr Eden will serve for the remainder of current municipal year and then for a full year from May 2022 to May 2023 – 18 months in total.

“I’d like to thank Rachel for her patience before taking the helm and I am absolutely certain that she will be an excellent champion for our town and a dedicated first citizen.

“I am also delighted to announce Councillor Ayo Sokale as our nomination for the deputy mayor post, which will run until May 2022.

Cllr Brock explained if agreed at today’s ceremony, Cllr Sokale will become one of the youngest deputy mayors in the history of the borough, and certainly the youngest in recent years.

“We all look forward to Ayo also being a great ambassador for Reading and for young people in our town and I know she is looking forward to doing her part to support Rachel’s Mayoralty.”

News from your clubs, groups and societies.

Email your news to: news@wokingham.today

Spanish dignitaries unveil walking route for pilgrims

S

PANISH dignitaries have unveiled a historic walking route linking their town with Reading.

Earlier this month visitors from A Coruña Province Council, in northern Spain, revealed the first in a series of waymarkers on a medieval walk.

The plaques feature a scallop shell, the recognised symbol used on waymarkers for the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route.

They start at St James’ Church in Reading, and over the next few months markers will be placed along the rest of St James’ Way to Southampton.

The Reading section will be completed by the end of the year.

It is part of the Reading for Modern Pilgrims project, which aims to celebrate the shared heritage of the town and Galicia.

Cllr Karen Rowland, Reading’s lead for culture, heritage and recreation, said: “I hope this visit has sown the seeds of a friendship between Reading and the province of A Coruña for many years to come.”

In modern times, the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route is one of the most travelled longdistance walking routes in the world. More than 350,000 pilgrims a year take a variety of routes to the cathedral in Santiago de Compostela, from around the world.

Reading for Modern Pilgrims map guide was published by Reading UK to showcase the town’s place in pilgrimage routes.

It began in the 12th century when King Henry I gifted the hand of St James the Apostle to Reading Abbey.

As part of the visit, the Spanish dignitaries were

WELCOME: Visitors from A Coruna, as well as those from Reading UK, Reading Borough Council and the CSJ cut the tape at the beginning of the St James Way, in front of St James Church in Reading. shown around the abbey ruins.

Nigel Horton-Baker, executive director, Reading UK, hopes the new route will appeal to the growing number of people looking for healthy, active, outdoor holidays or a spiritual experience.

He hopes that it will boost the town’s tourism, an ambition shared by Cllr Rowland.

This year marks 900 years since Reading Abbey was founded, said Cllr Rowland.

“Highlighting the town’s historic and modern

place on one of the world’s oldest and best-known international pilgrim routes, the Camino de Santiago, is a fitting part of our celebrations this year and will help enhance Reading’s profile as a destination resplendent in heritage and culture,” she said.

Cllr Rowalnd also hopes that reinstating the pilgrimage route will support the town’s bid for city status. n For more information, visit: livingreading.co.uk/ visit/outdoor-reading/pilgrim

Inner Wheel Club of Reading Maiden Erlegh back to covid-safe meetings WE are carefully moving on and organising Covid safe meetings, outings and fundraising events.

We have recently been on walking Treasure Hunts in Dorchester on Thames and discovered the beauty of South Stoke in Oxfordshire.

We enjoyed pub and barbecue lunches and raised monies to support The Cowshed, the crisis charity that provides clothing and other items for individuals and families in Berkshire experiencing hardship. We are also sewing, knitting and crafting for them.

The biannual Reading Art Fair took place at Leighton Park School over the last weekend of October. This was our fundraising event for the RBH Staff Wellbeing Centre in Reading.

Many months of planning by the Rotary and Inner Wheel Clubs of Reading Maiden Erlegh paid off and there were more than 350 exhibits and the event was well supported.

Inner Wheel ladies prepared appetising canapes which were served at the Preview Evening on Friday and ran the café over the weekend serving homemade sandwiches and cakes. An enjoyable weekend was had by all.

ESPORTS students given gaming room ESPORTS students have started learning in their new bespoke gaming room at Reading College.

Designed with the British Esports Association and Endpoint Esports Ltd, the space features state-of-the-art equipment for playing, analysing and shoutcasting.

Alex, a Reading College student who is studying an Esports, Enterprise and Entrepreneurship Level 3 Extended Diploma, said: “The college has worked really hard

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to give us the state-of-the-art facilities that we need.

“I think we’re incredibly lucky to have it. The equipment is very good and these are by far the best computers in the college.”

Alex explained that every Wednesday they compete against other colleges.

“For now, that’s to qualify, and the team with the highest points moves to the next stage,” he said.

“At the moment we’re trying to form teams and work out how to improve. Hopefully one of our

teams will improve and manage to get through.”

The course equips students with the skills to progress into the business of competitive gaming, coaching and event management.

It encourages learners to explore all areas of the industry, including entrepreneurship, health, wellbeing and fitness for Esports players and events management.

Learners can specialise in other modules, including shoutcasting and branding.

We enjoyed the Shinfield Players recent production of Music Box, songs from the Musicals.

The proceeds also benefited the RBH Fund.

We love clearing autumn leaves at Camp Mohawk and there will be plenty in November for us to tackle with our Rotarians.

Our annual Inner Wheel Bridge Charity Tea for Alexander Devine will take place on Friday, November 26, at Charvil Village Hall. If there are any bridge players who would like to bring a team please contact us.

December will be spent helping Rotary in the Covid safe grotto at Hare Hatch Sheeplands on the A4 at Twyford.

The Cowshed and local charities will benefit from every visit to see Santa and his Elf. Please book on www.harehatchsheeplands.co.uk/santa where you will find available dates and times.

We meet at Sonning Golf Club on the third Thursday evening of every month and we welcome new members to our organisation to join in the fun, take part in our activities, raise funds for charity and support our local community. n Please contact us via our website www. innerwheelrme.org or email us on iwcrme@gmail. com

TONI TRATHEN

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17.11.21

Your guide to what’s on across Reading and Wokingham

Kip, Kip hooray!

S

NOWFLAKES will be falling in Maidenhead this Christmas.

Kipper’s Snowy Day is set to entertain audiences at Norden Farm from Tuesday, November 30, to Sunday, December 30.

Based on the award-winning children’s book Kipper the Dog, by Mick Inkpen, the story will be brought to life on stage, thanks to Slot Machine theatre company.

The plot follows Kipper, his friend Tiger, and their magical adventure in the snow.

Filled with original songs, including Big Hill, and Very Positive About Snow, the soundtrack aims to reflect the action happening on stage with puppets.

It is inspired by the concept of a fresh, snowy

night and the blank page of a book.

Nicola Blackwell, co-artistic director at Slot Machine, says: “Audiences are in for a really spectacular show. We’ve tried to recreate that visual world tastefully on stage and families will be able to watch it all come to life and experience that magic of the show.”

Slot Machine theatre has a long-standing relationship with Norden Farm. The arts venue has presented three Christmas pieces with the company, and was one of the first theatres to commission them.

Ms Blackwell says they chose Kipper’s Snowy Day because it is “well-loved by so many families”.

She continues: “We just really enjoy the book, and our adaptation actually includes both Kipper’s

Snowy Day and Kipper’s Christmas Eve, which is what Mick Inkpen suggested we do.

“Mick was so lovely to work with, and I think his character definitely reflects in his books, showing his generosity and heart-warming nature,” she says.

This production isn’t the only production Slot Machine have been working on throughout the pandemic. Other shows include Your Toys, The Boy, The Piano and The Beach, and Scooter Ballet.

The company’s focus is on multidisciplinary work for family audiences, ranging from commercial pieces to larger-scale choreographic shows.

During lockdown Slot Machine released a film of Kipper’s Snowy Day, which was screened at

various BFI cinemas. Now, live theatre is back and Norden Farm has the festive adventure.

Ms Blackwell says that after a challenging Christmas last year, she is excited to be spreading joy to families this festive season.

“You won’t see a show like this anywhere else this Christmas,” she explains.

“Our production is so unique, and no other theatre company in the UK has been commissioned to do this adaptation, so I think that’s what makes our show so special.

“You just can’t beat walking into a theatre and seeing all the children laughing and engaged in your show, and it’s a real privilege to be a part of it.”

Tickets for Kipper’s Snowy Day cost £14.50, or £12.50 for under 16s. A family ticket of four seats is £50. Relaxed performances will take place on Saturday, December 4, at 11am and Wednesday, December 29.

Touch tours are available before the show. n For more details, or to book, call the box office on 01628 788997, or log on to: norden.farm

LAURA SCARDARELLA

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Get ready to disco with Sir Duke

inspection, panic surrounds the town.

The performances start at 7.45pm and tickets are £14. n For more details, or to book, call the box office on: 0118 978 5363, or log on to: wokinghamtheatre.org.uk

A DISCO band will be stepping into the spotlight in Reading next month.

Sir Duke Disco and the Dance Party band is set to play a variety of disco, dance, soul and funk, from the 70s to present day, at The Jazz Cafe, at the Select Car Leasing Stadium.

The performance takes place on Friday, December 10 at 7.30pm.

Entry-only tickets cost £12.

And for those who want to treat themselves to a three-course meal, tickets cost £46.50. n For more details, or to book, call: 0118 968 1442, or log on to: thejazzcafe.co.uk

80s rock night

BON JOVI, Queen and Bonnie Tyler lovers will be living on a prayer at South Hill Park this Christmas for a special tribute show.

Audiences will be whisked back to the 80’s to enjoy listening to rock anthems, power ballads and some Christmas tunes in That 80’s Christmas Rock Show.

The fancy-dress-encouraged event, performed in the Bracknell venue’s Wilde Theatre, is set to have individuals dancing the night away.

The performance takes place on Tuesday, December 14 at 7.45pm.

Tickets cost £22, or £21 for members. n For more details, or to book, call the box office on: 01344 484 123, or visit: southhillpark.org.uk

Moths to turn up at the Turtle

A ROCK band will be tuning up their guitars for a gig at Purple Turtle next month.

Marisa and the Moths will entertain crowds at the Reading bar on Saturday, December 12.

The alternative-rock group mix their sharp, modern music with a grungy take on 90s tunes.

Doors to the Gun Street, Reading bar open at 6pm and the performance starts at 7pm. n For more details, or to book, log on to: purpleturtlebar.com

Chilling tale on screen A CHOIR is preparing for its first concert since the covid pandemic.

Cantemus is used to performing four times a year, and is sure to be in fine voice when they return next month.

They will be performing a selection of Christmas carols, songs and readings at St Mary’s Church in Kintbury.

Mark Thomas to share Rapunzel as a panto his festive tales THE GRINCH has got nothing on comedian Mark Thomas, who will be delivering a Christmas comedy treat in Reading next month.

Presenting his show, An Extra Plateful, the not-so-festive storyteller brings his family tales to life at South Street Arts Centre.

He’ll tell stories, including his Dad being Father Christmas for the school fete, Christmas spent alone, dead neighbours, broken hearts, and unexpected guests.

The performance takes place on Thursday, December 30, at 7.30pm.

Suitable for ages 12 and over, standard tickets cost £17 and £15 for members. n For more details, or to book, call the box office on: 0118 960 6060, or visit: whatsonreading.com

RAPUNZEL will be letting down her hair in Twyford and Ruscombe Theatre’s group’s pantomime in January.

The community theatre company is set to reopen its doors with this fairytale classic on Friday, January 14 to Sunday, January 16.

The story follows a beautiful blonde woman, who is trapped in a castle and longs to find a lover to save her. n For more information, or to book, call the box office on: 0118 328 2825, or log on to: twyrusdrama.org.uk

Beauty-ful panto

A CLASSIC tale as old as time will be making its debut at Basingstoke’s The Anvil this Christmas.

Beauty and The Beast includes largerthan-life characters, catchy songs, jokes and festive fun.

The musical director will be Andrew Cox, while the accompanist is Chris Lambert.

It takes place from 3pm to 4pm on Saturday, December 18.

Tickets cost £10 and will be available on the door, with proceeds going to St Mary’s Fabric Fund.

Strictly Come Dancing champion, Joe McFadden stars as The Beast, and Basil Brush’s Mr Stephen Chris Pizzey is playing Louis la Plonk.

EastEnders’ Nick Wilton stars as Polly la Plonk, Maria Coyne is Belle, and Michael Quinn is Hugo Pompidou, the cheeky chap trying to win the heart of Belle.

Performances run from Thurday, December 9 to Sunday, January 2.

Tickets range from £22 to £32. n For more details, or to book, call: 01256 844244, or visit: anvilarts.org.uk

Rat Pack’s crackers

AN EVENING of festive classics will be sung by The Definitive Rat Pack at The Mill at Sonning later this month.

Featuring the Manhattan Swing Orchestra, The Definitive Rat Pack brings Christmas hits including White Christmas, Jingle Bells, The Christmas

AT THE THEATRE Coronavirus means that shows could be cancelled, postponed or rearranged at short notice.

Check with theatres to avoid disappointment.

Bracknell – South Hill Park

www.southhillpark.org.uk 01344 484123 Conservatoire International Concert Series: Alan Shellard and Hamish Brown. Fri. The Comedy Cellar. Fri. Raymond Burley: The Music of Spain. Sat. Wilde Sundays. Sun. Coach House Christmas Parties. Thurs 25. Cinderella.

From Fri 26-Jan 3.

Conservatoire International Concert Series: Amit Yahav. Fri 26. The Comedy Cellar. Fri 26.

Spirit Chasers Paranormal UK. Sun 28. Swing Into Christmas With the Down For The Count Concert Orchestra. Mon 29.

Camberley – Theatre www.camberleytheatre.biz 01276 707600

Desi Central Comedy Show. Fri. Circus Skills with Patches The Clown. Sat. The Real Magic Show. Sat. Live at Camberley Theatre. Fri 26. An Evening of Burlesque. Sat 27.

Guildford – Yvonne Arnaud

www.yvonne-arnaud.co.uk 01483 440000 Tell Me On A Sunday. Mon-Sat. Radio Live: A Hilarious Romp Through 50 Years of Broadcasting. Sun. Miriam Margoyles: This Much Is True.

Wed. Poirot and More: A Retrospective. Fri 26-Sat 27.

High Wycombe – Wycombe Swan

www.wycombeswan.co.uk 01494 512000 Lost In Music. Thurs. George Hinchcliffe’s Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain.

Fri. Tropicana Nights: The 90s.

Sat. Heathers The Musical.

Tues-Sat 27. Hellfire Comedy

Club. Thurs 25. Mamma Mia and More Dinner Dance. Sat 27. Carl Hutchinson Live. Sun 28. Coldplace. Sun 28.

Henley – Kenton www.kentontheatre.co.uk 01491 525050 Lipstick on your Collar.

Fri-Sat.

Maidenhead – Norden Farm

www.nordenfarm.org 01628 788997 Piers Lane Piano. Thurs. The Vinyl Frontier: Scissor Sisters v Keane. Thurs. The Dolly Project. Fri. St John’s Chamber Orchestra. Sat. Five Star Swing at Christmas. Wed. Ahir Shah: Dress. Fri 26. The Alter Eagles.

Sat 27. Kipper’s Snowy Day. From Nov 30.

Newbury – The Corn Exchange www.cornexchangenew.com 0845 5218 218

The Comedy Network. Fri. Cinderella. Fri 26-Sun, Jan 2.

Newbury – The Watermill

Cantemus are also preparing for its spring concert, which is schedule for Saturday, March 19. It will take place at St Mary’s Church in Shaw cum Donnington. n For more information, log on to: www.facebook.com/cantemusnewbury and: www.cantemus-newbury.org Song and Let It Snow.

And they’ve perform other all-time favourites such as I’ve Got You Under My Skin, That’s Amore, Mr Bojangles and New York, New York.

The performance takes place on Sunday, November 29, at 8.15pm, with dinner at 6.15pm. n For more details, or to book, call the box office on: 0118 969 8000, or visit: millatsonning.com

Inspect the Inspector

A SATIRICAL play will be performed by Wokingham Theatre next month.

Nikolai Gogol’s The Government Inspector will take to the stage from Wednesday, December 8 to Saturday, December 18.

The story follows a small Russian town that’s full of corruption.

But when the officials find out they’re going to be subject to an undercover

Reading – The Hexagon

www.whatsonreading.com 0118 960 6060

www.whatsonreading.com 0118 960 6060 Suzi Ruffell. Thurs-Fri. NEXT SHOW: The Snow Queen. From Dec 3-Christmas Eve.

A GROUP of four comedians are heading to Reading’s Just The Tonic Comedy Club this Saturday.

The event, hosted at Sub 89, on Friar Street, will provide an evening of nonstop laughter.

The gig features Jewish comedian Sol Bernstein, Will Duggan, Joanne McNally and Robin Morgan.

Doors open at 6pm for audiences to have a drink and chat before the show. n For more details, or to book, log on to: justthetonic.com

Reading – Progress Theatre www.progresstheatre.co.uk 0118 384 2195 Radiant Vermin. Until Sat.

www.readingrep.com 0118 370 2620 NEXT SHOW: A Christmas Carol.

Dec 3-New Year’s Eve.

Reading – Reading Minster Church

Reading – South Street

That’s the tonic

Reading – Reading Rep Theatre

www.watermill.org.uk 01635 46044 The Jungle Book.Until New Year’s Eve.

rabbletheatre.com 07930 834970 RABBLE Theatre presents Who Killed Alfred Oliver? Until Sat 20 – CANCELLED DUE TO COVID.

A SCREENING of Amelia will be shown at South Street Arts until the end of November.

The filmed version takes place in March 1896, where a brown paper package was found floating in the river at Caversham Lock.

What was discovered inside brought an end to the chilling career of baby farmer Amelia Dyer.

Originally staged outdoors in July 2019, around Caversham Lock, the location where Amelia committed many of her crimes, the film will hit the big screen until Tuesday, November 30.

Audience members are advised to pay what they can. n For more details, or to book, call: 0118 9606060, or visit: whatsonreading.com

Shinfield – Shinfield Players Rachael Parris: All Change Please. Sat. The Horne Section.

Mon. The Darkness. Fri 26.

Katherine Ryan: Missus.

Sat 27.

Reading – Concert Hall www.whatsonreading.com 0118 960 6060 Jon Hopkins. Sat. NEXT SHOW: Lunchtime Organ Recital.

Jan 17.

www.shinfieldplayers.org.uk 0118 975 8880 NEXT SHOW: Youth Group Revue.

Dec 3-4.

Sonning – The Mill

www.millatsonning.com 0118 969 8000 Top Hat. Until Jan 8. The Sound of Springsteen. Sun. The Rat Pack at Christmas. Sun 28, Dec 5.

Windsor –

Theatre Royal

www.theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk 01753 853888 Radio GaGa. Thurs. You Win Again. Fri. Thank You For The Music. Sat. Jack and the Beanstalk. Fri 26-Sun, Jan 9.

Wokingham – Theatre www.wokingham-theatre.org.uk 0118 978 5363 NEXT SHOW: The Government Inspector. Wed, Dec 8-Sat, Dec 18.

Wokingham – The Whitty Theatre

www.thewhittytheatre.org 0118 974 3247 Wokingham Film Society presents The Father (12a). Thurs.

Elements Dance: A Night at the Movies. Sat-Sun.

Woodley – Theatre

www.woodleytheatre.org 07488337838 NEXT SHOW: Talking Heads Part 2. Nov 30-Dec 4.

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Reading band wins award for music video release

Jungle Book swings into The Watermill

SHOW: Peter Ashmore, Philippa Hogg, Karishma Young, Guido García Lueches, Rowena Lennon in rehearsals.

Picture: Pamela Raith Photography

Last Picture Show talk unity and the joys of life with their new awardwinning music video

A

N AWARDWINNING music video has been made to explore life’s wonders, thanks to a Reading-based band.

Created by Last Picture Show, featuring Gareth Cooper, Matt Robinson and John Mullaney, The Joy and the Wonder portrays rejecting division and embracing the world.

First emerging as Ripchord in 2006, the video was put together in Summer 2019 after the band recorded the track in 2018.

Band member John Mullaney, and director of the shoot, said the idea for the music video came from when he was on a residential holiday “There are few more magical places on earth than rural England in full bloom on a midsummer night and it’s a vibe that’s self-evidently at the heart of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, which is one of my favourite plays and a subtle influence on the growing idea for the film.” Mr Mullaney said “Channelling Matt’s soulful lyrics about rejecting division and embracing life’s joy and wonder, the central concept for the film was born right there and then.”

Mr Mullaney explained he wants as many people as possible to experience and share the film.

And he added viewers can enjoy its magical vibe, especially in the run-up to Christmas.

BAND MATES: The group features Gareth Cooper, Matt Robinson and John Mullaney Picture: John Mullaney The band entered several competitions and went on to win Best Music Video 2021 at the Hollywood Art and Movie Awards.

“We were over the moon to win this,” Mr Mullaney said.

“It is so gratifying to have that industry recognition and to be able to describe Last Picture Show as an awardwinning band.”

Actress Cassie Vallance starred as the leading role in the film and Mr Mullaney’s friend, who was on a film course, offered to help with

some filming equipment.

“That generous access to professional gear, combined with the kind and exceptionally talented cast & crew we now had on board, meant we were all set to make a really professional looking film on a relatively shoe-strong budget,” he added.

Mr Mullaney explained the film shoot as a “gratifying experience”.

He said: “One of the best personal memories about the film is that so many people on the shoot told me it was one of

the best experiences they’ve ever had.

“I’m super grateful to everyone involved who helped make the film happen.”

He said: “I keep getting asked when we’re going to do it again, I’ve written the sequel, which is ridiculously ambitious, but then so was Joy and Wonder, so who knows.

“It’ll take a lot to finance, but I hope we can eventually make that film happen as it would be spectacular.” n For more information, log on to: last-picture-show.com

A

week.

JUNGLE adventure through the treetops will be performed at The Watermill from this

The Newbury-based theatre presents Rudyard Kipling’s classic tale, The Jungle Book, over Christmas.

In the depths of the jungle, a child is abandoned with no possessions, no family and no home.

And the infant is soon discovered by a pack of wolves who decide to raise them as one of their own.

Swing through the treetops with Mowgli and watch a show all about acceptance and finding a place in the world Director and choreographer Tom Jackson Greaves said he can’t wait to share the production with audiences.

He said: “After being an associate

Crumbs! Biscuit trail will make your Christmas

S

ANTA Claus, Japanese cuisine, an X Factor star, a marshmallow fire pit and even biscuit-making icons, Huntley and Palmer, are among the new features announced for Twilight Trail: Biscuit Town, the flagship festive attraction of Christmas in Reading.

Taking place in the stunning setting of the Abbey Ruins and Forbury Gardens, the light trail sold more than 12,000 tickets last year and was cited as a UK holiday highlight by the Daily Mail.

It runs from Friday, December 3, all the way through to New Year’s Eve. This year’s light, sound and smell installations have a biscuit theme as the bicentenary approaches of Huntley & Palmers, the Reading-based biscuit business that became one of the first-ever global brands, selling to 172 countries.

They include a brand-new Son et Lumiere The Packing Plantin the Abbey Ruins, a recreation of a board game featured on a 1950s biscuit tin, the interactive Lion’s Roarand a shimmering photo frame entirely constructed from rolling pins.

Leading light trail producer, Luminism, have been working with Bing Liveand Bicycle Boyplaywright Helen Eastman and artists from Reading and beyond to create a mouth-watering, wintery wonderland.

Two specially commissioned songs, written by lyricist Eastman and composer Russell Heppelwhite, celebrating Reading’s history as Biscuit Town will be featured, recorded by children from six local schools: Caversham Park Primary School, Christ the King Catholic Primary School, Redlands Primary School, St Anne’s Catholic Primary School, St John’s Church of England Primary School and St Mary & All

Saints Church of England Primary School.

Food and drink offerings include Après Ski chalets, a marshmallow fire pit, Japanese and sausage stalls, as well as specially created iced gem and adults-only hot chocolates from WePop. Special guests appearing including Victorian Huntley and Palmer characters looking for help designing new biscuits and, on Christmas Eve, Santa Claus.

Reading’s leading homelessness prevention charity, Launchpad, will take over the Twilight Trail on December 8, joined by Anonymous Coffee andX Factor star Danyl Johnson, who will be compering Carols at the Abbey starring BBC’s Gospel Choir of the Year 2019 winners, Reading Community Gospel Choir .All proceeds from tickets sold for this special evening will be donated to Launchpad to directly support people who are homeless or at risk of

losing their home in Reading.

Reading UK’s Zsuzsi Lindsay commented: “We can’t wait to light up Reading again and bring a bit of magic to the beautiful Forbury Gardens and Abbey Ruins.

“We’re so proud to have a fully accessible light trail located right in the heart of the town centre, so people can make the most of what’s on offer in Reading over the festive season.

“And, being just a few minutes’ walk from Reading Station and other transport links, means that residents and visitors alike can enjoy this truly special trail which is totally unique to Reading.”

Tickets for Twilight Trail: Biscuit Town can be booked via whatsonreading.com, with off-peak tickets starting at £6 for children, £8 for adults and £26 for a family pass. n More information on festivities in Reading is available at christmasinreading.co.uk

artist of the Watermill Theatre for the past five years.

“It makes me unbelievably happy to be working on my tenth production at the theatre and my first as director.

“The Jungle Book is a tale I have fallen in love with and hope that our production will bring a universal serving of joy whilst telling a story that oozes themes of acceptance, growth, understanding and love.”

Performances run from Thursday, November 18 until Friday, December 31.

Adults tickets cost £23 for performances up to Thursday, December 16 and £25 from Saturday, December 18 onwards. n For more details, or to book, call the box office on 01635 46044, or visit: watermill.org.uk

THE MILL AT SONNING PRESENTS

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Classical music celebration ONE OF BEETHOVEN’S symphonies will be celebrated at Norden Farm this Christmas.

St John’s Chamber Orchestra make its return to the Maidenhead arts venue for a special concert on Saturday, at 8pm.

Conducted by Nigel Wilkinson, the orchestra is joined by Oliver Simpson, on cello, and Yehuda Inbar, on piano.

The programme includes a showpiece by Dvorak and Beethoven’s Seventh Symphony.

Live streamed and adult tickets are £18, £16.50 for concessions and £5 for under 18’s. n For more details, or to book, call the box office on 01628 788997, or visit norden.farm

Mark Watson’s Concert Hall date

COMEDIAN Mark Watson is heading to Reading’s Concert Hall for a night of laughter next year.

He will perform at the arts venue, on Blagrave Street, on Thursday, February 3, at 7.30pm.

The Channel 4’s Taskmaster survivor will cram a couple of years of pathological overthinking into an evening of standup.

Suitable for ages 14 and over, tickets cost £22. n For more details, or to book, call the box office on 0118 960 6060, or log on to: whatsonreading.com

READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, November 17, 2021

REVIEW: @HOME at South Hill Park

A

CAPTIVATING new production explores the implications on society through the world of contemporary dance.

Directed and choreographed

by Didy Veldman, @HOME explores the idea of being stuck inside and, while there is a literal house setting on stage, the dance itself has much more meaning to it.

The talented cast of dancers include Theo Arran, Oliver Chapman, Hannah Ekholm, Melody Tamiz and Nicholas Tredrea.

Each individual absorbs the audience into their own unique story, taking them on their emotional journey to find out what and where home is for them.

Arran and Chapman perform a memorable section that shows careful attention to their interlocking movements and unity.

Chapman swoons to the floor, completely oblivious of Tamiz’s support who places the mattress underneath him to break his fall.

The pair’s fluidity show Chapman’s trust of Tamiz, which seems to be an important factor in contemporary dance as a whole.

Composer Sabio Janiak’s original score has a real mix of

DANCE: @HOME was performed at South Hill Park’s Wilde Theatre on Tuesday, November 9. Picture: Foteini Christofilopoulou disjointed melodies, as well as more smooth, underlying tones that coincide with Veldman’s exquisite choreography.

Speech was incorporated a couple of times into the piece and those moments weren’t necessarily needed.

These included dialogues from an estate agent on flat rentals, and a reflection on identity, which brought the level of performance down slightly.

Perhaps the spoken words could have been used as a pre-recorded voiceover so it didn’t distract from the skilful choreography on stage.

Ekholm and Tredea’s duet seemed to portray the love and

WPR_2021-11-15_ReadingToday_16x4 (1)_Just Go

Reader travel

NEWQUAY

the struggles of a couple living together under one roof.

Their strong partner work blended together perfectly, demonstrating elements of closeness and escapism.

By the end of the number, they swap clothes, Ekholm wearing Tredea’s waistcoat and him wearing her dress, showing they’re connected to one another.

Although the set is fairly minimalist, with table, chairs, a mattress and a plant pot, each dancer embodies the props to their full capacity, particularly in the group sequences. n For details or future shows, log on to: humanoove.org

LAURA SCARDARELLA

LAUGHS: Robert White will headline The Stand and Deliver Comedy Club’s gig this Thursday

TV show runner-up at Biscuit Factory

A TALENT show star is heading to The Reading Biscuit Factory this Thursday.

Hosted by The Stand ad Deliver Comedy Club, Britain’s Got Talent contestant Robert White will headline at the arts venue on Broad Street Mall.

The club, which was formed in 2016, partnered with the community hub to deliver various nights of entertainment.

And this Thursday will be its opening night, hosted by Reading Fringe Comedian of the Year, Lucas Jolson.

Cabaret trio set Hexagon date

NORFOLK

House Party

Country Music Break

Alongside Robert White, the gig features supporting acts Alexis Coward and Charlie Bowers.

Doors open at 7pm and the show starts at 8pm.

Club promoter, founder and spiritual leader, Rhodri Buttrick, said: “I am so excited to be bringing my comedy club to such a wonderful new venue.

“After the year we have had Reading deserves a good laugh.” n For more details, or to book, log on to: standanddelivercomedy. com

Scrooge in Kings Road for Christmas

NorfolkCountryMusicBreak_F.pdf

Departing Fri 11 Mar ‘22

Departing Mon 21 Mar ‘22

Your break includes

Your break includes

Return coach travel from Reading 3 nights at the Kilbirnie Hotel, Newquay with dinner & breakfast Happy hour every evening Entertainment every evening Movie afternoon Afternoon tea dance with tea, coffee and cake Excursion to Padstow

Return coach travel from Reading 4 nights at the Warner Corton Coastal Village, near Lowestoft with dinner & breakfast Country Music entertainment every evening Excursions to Aldeburgh & the Norfolk Broads by coach Optional excursion to Norwich (£10pp)

Optional excursion to St Ives & Penzance (£10pp)

4 Days by Coach only £ Single Supplement £45

159

319

5 Days by Coach only £ Single Supplement £100

Operated by Just Go Holidays Ltd. Coach package holidays and short breaks are subject to Just Go! Holidays terms and conditions.

Your booking is protected by Bonded Coach Holidays (BCH) and the Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust Limited (ABTOT); this is a government approved consumer protection scheme. Tours offered subject to availability and government guidelines.

Errors and omissions excepted. Prices per person, based on two people sharing a double/twin room. Calls to 033 numbers are free within inclusive minutes packages otherwise standard rates apply.

For more information, or to book, please call

03332 342 527 Quote WPR

or visit us online at

justgoholidays.com/WPR

033 numbers are free within inclusive minutes packages otherwise standard rates apply.

justgohols JGTravelGroup

A CABARET trio is popping the champagne for their latest tour.

Fascinating Aida will be hitting Reading for one night only, coming to The Hexagon.

Audiences will be treated to a selection of favourites and even a bawdy song or two.

The group, made up of Dillie Keane, Adele Anderson and Lisa Pulman, have captured political and social fixations across four decades.

The performance takes place on Wednesday, February 16, at 7.30pm.

With three Olivier Award nominations and more than 25 million YouTube hits, the trio’s songs and topical, with a splash of glamour. n For more details, call the box office on: 0118 960 6060, or visit: whatsonreading.com

THE CASTING for Reading Rep Theatre’s next production has been announced.

The theatre company, on Kings Road, will perform a new adaptation of Charles Dickens’ novel, A Christmas Carol.

Written by Reading-born playwright Beth Flintoff, and directed by Paul Stacey, the cast includes Beth Eyre, Dave Fishley, Samuel Kyi, Rose McPhilemy and Rick Romero.

Set on the cobbled streets of Reading, the story follows Ebenezer Scrooge, who is a miserable boss at Huntley and Palmers, Reading’s world-famous biscuit company.

With a little help from Christmas Past, Present and Future, will he be able to feel the festive joy this year?

A 15ft tall Christmas tree will be set up outside the theatre to honour the festive season and the first Christmas production at Reading Rep’s newly built theatre.

This family-friendly production opens on Wednesday, December 8, and runs until Friday, December 31.

Completing the creative team are Anna Lewis, Joe Dines, Simeon Miller and Sheree Paton.

The production is accompanied by Reading Rep’s largest participatory project, Dear Mr Scrooge, which aims to bring literature to life through performing, for communities who find it hard to access the arts.

The project will engage over 300 participants across Reading including SEN school, five primary schools, Bounce Back 4 Kids and Purley Park Trust, who will create their own versions of Dickens’ timeless tale. n For more details, or to book, call the box office on 0118 370 2620, or visit readingrep.com

25 | LEISURE

To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today

LIVEMUSIC

To advertise in this section, call Claire on 0118 327 2662

RaW Sounds Today

Moth Man – Nutter This band, with members from Reading and Manchester, have released a new video of this track from their latest album. It was filmed by Gigshotz from Reading and reflects the moody atmospheric feel of the song and the album – https://mothman. band/

Chris Hillman

bit.ly/wokingham lovesmusic

Slim Chance – Ooh La La

T

HERE are three terrific new entries in yet another great RaW Sounds Today playlist.

First from an excellent up-and-coming duo from Reading, second from a local established musician with his 10-year anniversary of an album released on a Wokingham-based record label, and third, a Wokingham band with an excellent cover of a classic.

You can listen to all 10 tracks, for free, thanks to our Spotify playlist.

The RaW Sounds playlist is a brilliant way to discover some new music and keep dancing.

To tune in, simply head to https://bit.ly/ rawsoundstoday and get ready to rock.

There’s also a Facebook page and group chat that bands and music fans can tap in to. You can search for RaW Sounds Today and it will come up.

Valeras – Let Me Go Reading-based duo, Valeras, have been building up a reputation with a stream of critically acclaimed singles, including this one that also features on their new four-track EP Tell Me Now. It’s a great piece of indie rock with a pop punk feel and an uplifting singalong anthemic chorus. They will be live at Sub 89 on Wednesday, November 24, and, if you fancy a vinyl copy of the EP, the band will be doing a special ‘in store’ at Wokingham’s Beyond the Download record store on Saturday, November 27 – https://www.facebook.com/valerasband

LET ME GO: Valeras Picture: Madeline Rome

Mordecai Smyth – Sinister Cyclist Mordecai Smyth was the first artist to sign to Wokingham-based Mega Dodo Records in 2011, and his first album, Sticky Tape and Rust, was released in the same year. It has just been re-issued as a special 10th anniversary two CD set with 32 bonus tracks.

The album has a wonderful 60s psych pop feel with clever lyrics that make you smile such as this song about a Sinister Cyclist dressed in black, casting spells.

Mordecai has a new album coming in next year. https://www.facebook.com/stickytapeandrust/

BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. Green Embers, Redhead, Brioche.

Details: www.theacousticcouch.co.uk BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF. I Got Soul: David Rodigan. Details: 01344 303333.

EARLEY – The Roebuck, Auckland Road RG6 1NY. Live music. Details: 0118 966 7153.

EMMBROOK – The Dog and Duck, Matthewsgreen Road RG41 1JT. Live music.

Details: 0118 978 0544.

EVERSLEY – The Frog & Wicket RG27 0NS. Electric Eden. Details: 0118 973 1126.

READING – The Butler, Chatham Street RG1 7DS. Open mic night. Details: 0118 959 5500.

READING – The Face Bar, Ambrose Place RG1 7JE. Molly Karloff, Raze, Blyth Road, Scramin Irene. Details: 0118 956 8188.

READING – The Palmer Tavern, Wokingham Road RG6 1JL. Marvellous Fridays. Details: 0118 935 1009.

READING – Sub89, Friar Street RG1 1EP. Strictly UB40. Details: 0118 959 5395.

WOKINGHAM – Broad Street Tavern, Broad Street RG40 1AU. Dacoda. Details: 0118 977 3706.

Saturday, November 20

BURGHFIELD – The Six Bells RG30 3TH. The Highwasters. Details: 0118 983 2220.

BINFIELD – The Victoria Arms, Terrace Road North RG42 5JA. Majestix. Details: 01344 483856.

BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. Damage UK, Oil City Kings, The Beelines. Details: www.theacousticcouch. co.uk BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF. Funky Funks.

Details: 01344 303333.

BRACKNELL – South Hill Park RG12 7PA. Raymond Burley. Details: 01344 484123.

BRACKNELL – The Royal Oak, London Road RG12 2NN. Tequila Chase. Details: 01344 422622.

READING – The Butler, Chatham St RG1 7DS. Syn City Rockers. Details: 0118 959 5500.

This classic song was one of the highlights of the show that the band, which includes members who played with the late great Ronnie Lane, performed at Wokingham Music Club recently.

Ronnie co-wrote the song – https://www.slimchance.co.uk/

Mike Wagner – Face of Light

Check out the video of this song, filmed in Reading. It’s taken from this local five-piece ‘uke pop’ band’s new album Everyday Adventures – https:// www.facebook.com/rocketkings

Here’s a Wokingham-based band with a very cool cover of a classic 70s hit by America. It’s a great interpretation of the song with good grooves, strong vocals and even a guitar solo at the end – https:// www.hoopyfrood.co.uk/

Lucy rose to fame following her amazing performances on X-Factor in 2012, and has a great new album, Choices, which features this track. She will be at Reading’s Sub 89 on Tuesday, November 23 – http://www.lucyspraggan.com/

Katie Ellwood – More Than Perfect

The Paradox Twin – Sea of Tranquility

It’s another wonderful indie pop single with an infectious melody and chilled beats from Katie who is from Wokingham and who writes, records, plays and sings on her releases. Very talented. – https:// www.katieellwood.com/

Following their recent live tour, which included Wokingham Festival, this Reading-based band released their eagerly awaited second album, ‘Silence from Signals’ from which this track is taken – https://www.theparadoxtwin.com/

READING – Grosvenor Casino Reading, Rose Kiln Lane RG2 0SN. Beeyonce. Details: 0118 402 7800.

READING – Salisbury Conservative Club RG1 4HX. Lainie Live. Details: 0118 926 5804.

READING – The Turks, London Road RG1 5BJ. Corsairs. Details: 0118 957 6930.

TILEHURST – The Royal British Legion Club, Downing Road RG31 5BB. Blonde Ambition.

Details: 0118 942 9606.

TILEHURST – The Victoria, Norcot Road RG30 6BP. Live music. Details: 0118 941 5064.

WOKINGHAM – The Roebuck, Market Place RG40 1AL. Garage night. Details: 0118 979 6486.

Tuesday, November 23

Sunday, November 21

Thursday, November 25

Monday, November 22

NETTLEBED – Village Club, High Street RG9 5DD. Nettlebed Folk Club presents: Coig.

Details: www.nettlebedfolkclub.co.uk READING – The Hexagon, Queens Walk. The Horne Section. Details: 0118 960 6060.

BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. New Music Tuesday. Details: www.theacousticcouch.co.uk READING – Sub89, Friar Street RG1 1EP. Lucy Spraggan. Details: 0118 959 5395.

WOODLEY – La’De Kitchen, Crockhamwell Road RG5 3JP. Ayce Abana and Yunuscan Kaya. Details: 0118 969 2047.

Wednesday, November 24

READING – Sub89, Friar Street RG1 1EP. Valeras. Details: 0118 959 5395.

STOKE ROW – Crooked Billet RG9 5PU. Dave Pegg and AJ Clarke. Details: 01491 681048.

READING – Sub89 RG1 1EP. British Lion.

Lawrence Chaney. Details: 0118 959 5395.

WOODLEY – La’De Kitchen, Crockhamwell Road RG5 3JP. Buzuki Serkan and Cem Iyibardakci. Details: 0118 969 2047.

Friday, November 26

JOHN; 90 years old; his rehabilitation journey with Therapies on Thames Initial Assessment Following a long period in hospital, John was discharged to a care home as he was no longer able to continue living independently as he was before his admission. He had experienced limited therapeutic intervention in an acute NHS trust over Christmas. He was discharged in January and had lost a lot of weight. He required hoisting and was also doubly incontinent. He was unable to sit up for any period.

Rocket Kings – The Green Zone

Lucy Spraggan – Run to the Hills

BRACKNELL – South Hill Park, Ringmead RG12 7PA. Wilde Sundays. Details: 01344 484123.

EARLEY – The Roebuck, Auckland Rd RG6 1NY. Karaoke. 2pm-6pm. Details: 0118 966 7153.

READING – Community Hall, Watlington House, Watlington Street RG1 4RJ. Readifolk presents: Mick Ryan and Paul Downes. Details: www.readifolk.org.uk READING – The Concert Hall, Blagrave Street RG1 1QH. Heavy Pop presents Jon Hopkins.

Details: 0118 960 6060.

READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun St RG1 2JR. The Earl Slick band. Details: 0118 959 7196.

READING – Sub89, Friar Street RG1 1EP. The Total Stone Roses and Oaysis. Details: 0118 959 5395.

READING – Queens Head, Christchurch Road RG2 7AZ. Northern Soul Social Sunday. 2pm5pm. Details: 0118 931 0232.

SONNING – The Mill at Sonning, Sonning Eye RG4 6TY. The Sound of Springsteen. Details: 0118 969 8000.

WOODLEY – La’De Kitchen, Crockhamwell Road RG5 3JP. Tenor Ethem Demir, pianist Yunuscan Kaya. Details: 0118 969 2047.

Physiotherapy for the elderly in and around Berkshire

An uplifting sing-along anthem that showcases the talents of this local singer-songwriter. It’s taken from Mike’s Life… A Seven Day Journey mini-album – https://www.facebook.com/mikewagnermusic

Hoopy Frood – Horse with No Name

GIG GUIDE

Friday, November 19

READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, November 17, 2021

BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF. Pure Queen.

Details: 01344 303333.

CHARVIL – Heron on the Ford, RG10 0UE. Monkey Shock. Details: 0118 934 0700.

EARLEY – The Roebuck, Auckland Road RG6 1NY. Live music. Details: 0118 966 7153.

EMMBROOK – The Dog and Duck, Matthewsgreen Road RG41 1JT. Live music.

Details: 0118 978 0544.

EMMBROOK – Emmbrook Sports & Social, Lowther Road RG41 1JB. Wokingham Music Club presents Sarah Jane Morris: Sweet Little Mystery, songs of John Martyn. £17.50.

Details: www.wokinghammusicclub.co.uk READING – The Butler, Chatham Street RG1 7DS. Open mic. Details: 0118 959 5500.

READING – The Face Bar, Ambrose Place RG1 7JE. Metal Fridays. Details: 0118 956 8188.

READING – The Hexagon, Queens Walk. The Darkness. Details: 0118 960 6060.

READING – Market Yard, Tessa Road RG1 8HH. Opening party with DJ Yoda. Details: www. marketyard.co.uk READING – The Palmer Tavern, Wokingham

Road RG6 1JL. Marvellous Fridays. Details: 0118 935 1009.

READING – Progress Theatre, The Mount RG1 5HL. Jazz at Progress presents Clark Tracey Sextet. Details: www.jazzinreading.com READING – Sub89, Friar Street RG1 1EP. The Wedding Present. Details: 0118 959 5395.

RISELEY – The Bull, Basingstoke Road RG7 1QL. The Turn. Details: 0118 343 0565.

WOKINGHAM – Broad Street Tavern RG40 1AU. Live music. Details: 0118 977 3706.

WOKINGHAM – The Roebuck, Market Place RG40 1AL. The Midnight Rebel Band.

Details: 0118 979 6486.

Saturday, November 27

BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF. The Originals.

Details: 01344 303333.

LOWER EARLEY – Maiden Place Social Club, Maiden Place RG6 3HA. Stephen Roper.

Details: 0118 926 0850.

READING – The Face Bar, Ambrose Place RG1 7JE. Club Velocity presents King Kurt.

Details: 0118 956 8188.

READING – The Jazz Cafe, Shooters Way, Madejski Stadium RG2 0FL. The Chain Gang.

Details: 0118 968 1442.

READING – Market Yard, Tessa Road RG1 8HH. Disco Brunch, Disco Shed, DJ Paulette.

Details: www.marketyard.co.uk READING – The Retreat, St John’s Street RG1 4EH. Shufflepack Details: 0118 376 9159.

READING – Salisbury Conservative Club RG1 4HX. Move It. Details: 0118 926 5804.

READING – The Turks, London Road RG1 5BJ. TBC. Details: 0118 957 6930.

READING – The Weather Station, Eldon Terrace RG1 4DX. The Lost UK Showcase Tour. Details: 0118 958 6048.

TILEHURST – The Royal British Legion Club, Downing Road RG31 5BB. Mythicals.

Details: 0118 942 9606.

TILEHURST – The Victoria, Norcot Road RG30 6BP. Live music. Details: 0118 941 5064.

WOKINGHAM – The Roebuck, Market Place RG40 1AL. Garage night. Details: 0118 979 6486.

HOLDING A GIG, QUIZ OR GAMES NIGHT? SEND DETAILS TO EVENTS@WOKINGHAM.TODAY

Rehabilitation John went through a phase of very slow recovery, but still unable to feed himself. He still required to be hoisted into a chair. After a time, John started to show signs that he wanted to improve and do more things independently to the carers at the home.

John had seen a physiotherapist when he first came to the care home but the family didn't peruse it as he wasn't interested at that time. The home was very supportive in John becoming more active. The carer told the family john would now benefit from physiotherapy.

Contact was made to Therapies on Thames initially to carry out a wheelchair assessment for John. Then they also learnt of the physiotherapy offering.

Result After a few weeks of physiotherapy rehabilitation, John was able to walk independently with two sticks and feed himself. He is gaining weight and muscle tone that he didn't have before he started the physiotherapy. He is much more engaged and can hold conversations on the phone. He is happier now he can be so much more independent.

Family Feedback "The Therapies on Thames team responded and were able to interact with my dad so that he was able to begin his journey back. As a physio myself, I was not at all sure he would be able to walk again, and so this has been a very significant improvement and has improved the quality of his life immensely."

If you think that you or a loved one would benefit from physiotherapy or occupational therapy, then please do get in touch, and speak to a member of our team on 0118 907 6345. � For more information on the range of therapy services available from Therapies on Thames call 01189076345, email contact@therapiesonthames.co.uk or visit www.therapiesonthames.co.uk

0118 907 6345

7 day service to meet your needs

www.therapiesonthames.co.uk

No. 5388

Your weekly puzzle challenge TO ADVERTISE ON THIS PAGE, CALL CLAIRE ON: 0118 327 2662

26 | LEISURE

To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today

READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, November 17, 2021

5388

Quiz Challenge

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1. The city of Bulawayo is in which African country?

2. The actresses Mimi Rogers, Nicole Kidman and Katie Holmes were all married to which actor?

3. Which firework takes its name from an early torture method used for public execution?

4. What C is an edible flower bud and another word for an antic or a prank?

5. Irish actor Aidan Turner played the dwarf Kíli in which fantasy film series?

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NONAGRAM

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M E R

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ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ 1

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I

Each number in our Cross Code grid represents a different letter of the alphabet. You have three letters in the control grid to start you off. Enter them in the appropriate squares in the main grid, then use your knowledge of words to work out which letters should go in the missing squares.

As you get the letters, fill in other squares with the same number in the main grid and control grid. Check off the alphabetical list of letters as you identify them.

MAGIC SQUARE

EM SMILES, RETIRE IT!

E N E T D

I

How many words of four letters or more can you make from this Nonagram? Each word must use the central letter, and each letter may be used only once. At least one word using all nine letters can be found.

Guidelines: 31 Good; 37 Very Good; 43 Excellent.

Any word found in the Concise Oxford Dictionary (Tenth Edition) is eligible with the following exceptions: proper nouns; plural nouns, pronouns and possessives; third person singular verbs; hyphenated words; contractions and abbreviations; vulgar slang words; variant spellings of the same word (where another variant is also eligible).

Using all 16 letters of the phrase above, form four words each of four letters which will fit in the grid to form a magic square in which the words can be read both horizontally and vertically.

Spell out a 15-letter word or phrase by moving from one chamber to another within the pyramid. You may only enter each of the chambers once and may only proceed E through openings in the walls. The N first letter may appear in any chamber.

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Here are two miniature fivesquare crosswords using the same grid – but the letters have been mixed up.

You have to work out which letters belong to which crossword.

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QUICK CROSSWORD 1

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Perform the first calculation in each line first and ignore the mathematical law which says you should always perform division and multiplication before addition and subtraction.

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This puzzle page is supplied by Sirius Media Services Ltd. To try our new puzzle, Zygolex, go to www.zygolex.com © Sirius Media Services Ltd

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30 6 3 9 4 1 7 8 2 5

2 1 4 6 7 5 9 8 3

9 8 5 2 3 4 7 1 6

7 6 3 1 8 9 5 4 2

WORD PYRAMID: Behind the scenes.

EQUALISER: Clockwise from top left – multiply; add; subtract; divide.

Total: 4.

SOLUTIONS

8 4 7 5 9 2 3 6 1

8 4 1 9 4

4 3 7 2

5

DOWN 2. He leaves out the captain (7) 3. Leg that is fractured in Belgium (5) 9. Catholic joint? (9) 4. Satisfactorily respond to the 10. Study some question (6) correspondence (3) 5. Finished everywhere (3,4) 11. Charged in full (7) 6. Fielder has Monday’s identification concealed 12. Remove article from the (3-2) road for meeting place (5) 7. As long as the ass lives it is 13. Before long management a long time (7,5) will flog off dress (6) 8. Last US coin used for 15. Summary of revised sporting contest (7-5) prices (6) 14. Gasps when about to get 18. In Corfu guests objected to into the pools (7) the music (5) 16. Type of gas that’s producing some heat (7) 20. Used by those who cannot see the liberal translation (7) 17. Jack to sail, say, down a steep slope (6) 22. Any change? No (3) 19. Uniformed girl, we hear, was 23. New rate certain to be right anchored (5) for club official (9) 21. So Edgar Allan Poe initially 24. Orchid worn by the woman became a short story in the house? (5-7) writer (5)

Place the four signs (add, subtract, multiply, divide) one in each circle so that the total of each across and down line is the same.

5 2 1 3 6 8 4 7 9

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3 5 8 7 4 5 2 7 9 8 6 5 4 3 4 1 3 5 3 2 1 2 4 9

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ACROSS 1. Not remotely comprehensible to the solitary hippo? (2,5,2,3)

EQUALISER 6 7 2 2 0 2 3 10 2 1 3 6

Hard

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Each row and each column must contain the numbers 1 to 9, and so must each 3 x 3 box.

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FIVE ALIVE CJ

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WORD PYRAMID

SUDOKU Easy

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD 1

6. Which Old Testament queen was eaten by dogs?

7. Which two cities were linked by the original Great Western Railway?

8. Who wrote the poem Maud, part of which became the song Come Into the Garden Maud?

9. Gary Lineker ended his English football career with which club?

10. Who won the 2020 series of I’m a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! which was filmed in a Welsh castle due to COVID-19?

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PZ1P5388

CROSS CODE 11

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28. Musical band (5) ACROSS 29. Implement (7) 1. Lawful (5) 30. Recant (7) 4. Aircraft ascent (4-3) 31. Prickly shrub (5) 8. Genuine (7) DOWN 9. Dwindle away (5) 1. Lariat (5) 10. Elliptical (5) 2. Latin American dance (5) 13. Tedious (7) 3. In that place (5) 17. American country (init.) (3) 4. Dissertation (6) 18. Listlessness (6) 5. Fibrous stuffing (5) 19. Containing salt (6) 20. Snooze (3) 6. Exceed (5) 22. Caustic remark (7) 7. Strength (5) 25. Belief (5) 11. Stringed

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27.

instrument (5) Theme (5) Coarse file (4) Ointment (5) Animal disease (5) Vases (4) Quantity (6) Natural sweetener (5) Perch (5) Greek letter (5) Prongs (5) Of the nose (5) Score (5)

QUICK CROSSWORD: Across – 1 Licit; 4 Take-off; 8 Sincere; 9 Peter; 10 Ovate; 13 Irksome; 17 USA; 18 Torpor; 19 Saline; 20 Nap; 22 Sarcasm; 25 Tenet; 28 Group; 29 Utensil; 30 Retract; 31 Holly.

Down – 1 Lasso; 2 Conga; 3 There; 4 Thesis; 5 Kapok; 6 Outdo; 7 Forte; 11 Viola; 12 Topic; 14 Rasp; 15 Salve; 16 Mange; 17 Urns; 21 Amount; 22 Sugar; 23 Roost; 24 Alpha; 25 Teeth; 26 Nasal; 27 Tally.

FIVE ALIVE: QUIZ CHALLENGE: 1 Zimbabwe; 2 Tom Cruise; 3 Catherine wheel; 4 Caper; 5 The Hobbit; 6 Jezebel; 7 London and Bristol; 8 Alfred Lord Tennyson; 9 Tottenham Hotspur; 10 Giovanna Fletcher.

(1) Across – Chant; Tiara; Reels.

Down – Cater; Abate; Toads.

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD: CROSS CODE 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 Across – 1 As clear as mud; 9 Universal; 10 Den; 11 Replete; 12 (2) Across – Jolly; Ionic; Tryst.

S Y U E J G X M C P D A F Venue; 13 Enrobe; 15 Précis; 18 Fugue; 20 Braille; 22 Nay; 23 Down – Joint; Lanky; Yacht.

14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 Treasurer; 24 Lady’s-slipper.

B O Z R N Q K W I H L T V Down – 2 Skipper; 3 Liège; 4 Answer; 5 All over; 6 Mid-on; 7 NONAGRAM: dementi; dene; denier; denim; dent; Donkey’s years; 8 Quarter-final; 14 Breaths; 16 Calorie; 17 Abseil; DETERMINE; diene; dine; diner; dint; MAGIC SQUARE: EASY SUDOKU HARD SUDOKU trim; rise; isle; meet. 19 Guyed; 21 Aesop. emend; endite; enter; entered; entire; entree; ermine; ermined; erne; inert; inter; mend; mender; mien; mind; minder; mine; mined; miner; mint; minted; minter; need; needier; neem; nerd; nereid; nerite; nide; nitre; rein; reined; remind; rend; rent; rented; rind; teen; teenier; tein; tend; tender; tendre; tern; terne; tinder; tine; tined; treen; trend; triene; trine.

WHAT’SON Thursday, November 18

READING. Terry’s Walkabout: Crime and Punishment special, in conjunction with RABBLE theatre.

Advance booking essential, in aid of Thames Valley Air Ambulance and Sue Ryder Duchess of Kent Hospice. 9.50am-12.30pm.

Details: terry.dixon89@ virginmedia.com READING – Reading Central Library, Abbey Square RG1 3BQ. Berkshire Family History Society presents: The Duke of Wellington; A life of Service, An online talk by Brigadier Michael Aris & Richard Bennett.

2pm-3.15pm. Booking essential. Details: https:// berksfhs.org READING – The Biscuit Factory, Unit 1A, Queen’s Walk, RG1 7QA. Stand and Deliver comedy club. £10. 7pm for 8pm. Details: standanddelivercomedy. com READING – Progress Theatre, The Mount RG1 5HL. Progress Theatre presents Radiant Vermin by Philip Ridley. 7.45pm. Details: www.progresstheatre. co.uk.

READING – Rising Sun Arts Centre, 30 Silver Street, Reading RG1 2ST. SOS Drag Night Special. Details: risingsunartscentre.org READING – Sub89/ PopworldFriar Street RG1 1EP. Comedy with Rachel Fairburn. 8pm. Details: www.justthetonic.com WOKINGHAM – Cantley Park Pavilion, The Lodge Milton Road RG40 5QG. Wokingham Borough Council presents silver jewellery making earings workshop with Janet Richardson. 10am-4pm.

Details: wokingham.gov.uk WOKINGHAM – The Cornerstone, All Saints Church, Norreys Avenue, Wokingham RG40 1UE. Wokingham and East Berkshire Camera Club meeting: Studio Lighting with Shawn Bishop.

7.30pm. Details: www. webcc.org.uk.

WOKINGHAM – The Whitty Theatre, Luckley House School, Luckley Road RG40 3EU. Wokingham Film Society presents: The Father (12). £6.50, £4

members. 7.30pm. Details: wokinghamfilmsociety.com

Friday, November 19

CROWTHORNE – Wellington College RG45 7PU. Wellington College Chamber Choir and Orchestra and Crowthorne Choral Society present John Rutter’s Requiem. 8pm. £12, £2 students. Details: www. wellingtoncollege.org.uk/ forthcoming-events READING – BrewDog, Castle Street RG1 7SB. Mad Monkey Improv Charity Show. 7.30pm. Details: www.madmonkeyimprov. co.uk READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. Comedy night: Roger Monkhouse. Details: 0118 959 7196.

READING – Progress Theatre, The Mount RG1 5HL. Progress Theatre presents Radiant Vermin by Philip Ridley. 7.45pm. Details: www.progresstheatre. co.uk.

WOKINGHAM – St Paul’s Church Parish Rooms, Reading Road RG41 1EH. Coffee and Chat: a warm welcome, a listening ear and refreshments. 2pm4pm. Details: 0118 979 6267.

WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley vegan market. 11am3pm. Details: www. sparkleveganevents.com

Saturday, November 20

BURGHFIELD – Willink Leisure Centre, Holly Bush Lane RG7 3XP. Christmas craft fair. Noon-4pm. 50p entry. Details: 07990 667503.

GORING – Village Hall RG8 9AG. Goring Craft Fair.

10am-4pm. £2. Details: www.goringcraftfair.co.uk LOWER EARLEY – Salvation Army, Chalfont Close RG6 5HZ. Christmas fayre: cakes, books, crafts, pre-loved, toys and more.

10.30am-2pm. Details: 0118 931 0760.

READING – Broad Street Mall. Letters to Santa: visit Santa’s little helpers, write a letter, post it and receive a free personalised letter from Lapland. 11am-4pm.

Details: broadstreetmall.

LEISURE | 27

To advertise, call 0118 327 2662

Wednesday, November 17, 2021 READINGTODAY.ONLINE

Holding a community event? Send your listings to events@wokinghampaper.co.uk com READING – Cattle Market, Great Knollys Street RG1 7HU. Reading farmers market. 8.30am-noon.

Details: www.tvfm.org.uk READING – The Great Hall, University of Reading, London Road RG1 5AG. The Whiskey Affair whiskey festival: Scotch, bourbon, whiskey and whiskey cocktails. 1pm or 7pm. £9.90 per session.

Details: thewhiskeyaffair. co.uk READING – Progress Theatre, The Mount RG1 5HL. Progress Theatre presents Radiant Vermin by Philip Ridley. 7.45pm. Details: www.progresstheatre. co.uk.

READING – St Joseph’s College, Upper Redland Road RG1 5JT. Reading Hadyn Choir with Sinfonia Musiciti present Rutter’s Requiem and Karl Jenkins’ The Armed Man, a Mass For Peace. 7.30pm. £14, £12 concessions, £5 under 19s. Details: www. haydnchoir.org.uk READING – Across Reading.

Christmas light switch-on 2021. Live music from 1pm, including RASPO. Festive food stalls in Broad Stall and more.

YATTENDON – Village Hall RG18 OUE. Yattendon Christmas Market. 10am4pm.

WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents Saturday market.

9am-3pm. Details: 07861 654674 or www. woodleytowncentre.co.uk

Sunday, November 21

ONLINE. Wokingham Borough Council libraries online virtual storytime.

11am. Details: libraries@ wokingham.gov.uk BINFIELD – Salisbury Hall, Newbold College RG42 4AN. Bracknell Choral Society: A Celebration of Mozart. 6pm. £15, under 18s free. Details: www. bracknellchoral.org.uk CAVERSHAM – Creativ.

Spaces, Southview Park, Marsack Street RG4 5AF. Artisa Christmas Market.

10am-3.30pm. Details: www.madebytamalia.co.uk GORING – Village Hall RG8

9AG. Goring Craft Fair.

10am-4pm. £2. Details: www.goringcraftfair.co.uk READING – Broad Street Mall. Letters to Santa: visit Santa’s little helpers, write a letter, post it and receive a free personalised letter from Lapland. 11am-4pm.

Details: broadstreetmall. com WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Vegan Market. 11am-3pm.

Details: 07861 654674 or woodleytowncentre.co.uk YATTENDON – Village Hall RG18 OUE. Christmas Market. 10am-4pm.

Monday, November 22

EARLEY – Brookside Church, Brookside Close RG6 7HG. Re:fresh wellbeing drop-in cafe from Earley Help Hub. 10am-noon. Details: 0118 966 4474

Tuesday, November 23

ONLINE. Wokingham Borough Council libraries online virtual storytime for ages seven and under.

11am. Details: libraries@ wokingham.gov.uk READING – Rising Sun Arts Centre, 30 Silver Street, Reading RG1 2ST. BAlive Life Drawing workshop. Details: www. risingsunartscentre.org WOODLEY – Bulmershe Leisure Centre, Woodlands Avenue RG5 3EU. Wokingham Borough Council presents Life Drawing and Portraiture with Mick McNicholas.

Noon-1.45pm. Details: www.wokingham.gov.uk

Wednesday, November 24

READING – Market House, Market Place RG12EQ. Drag Queen Bingo. £10. Details: www. markethousereading.com WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents Artisan market. 9am-2pm.

Details: 07861 654674 or woodleytowncentre.co.uk

Thursday, November 25

LOWER EARLEY – Trinity Church, Chalfont Close RG6 5HZ. Re:fresh

wellbeing drop-in cafe, 2pm-4pm. Details: 07493 784091.

WOKINGHAM – The Cornerstone, All Saints Church, Norreys Avenue, Wokingham RG40 1UE. Wokingham and East Berkshire Camera Club meeting: Image Improvement. 7.30pm.

Details: www.webcc. org.uk.

Friday, November 26

EARLEY – St Nicolas Church, Sutcliffe Avenue RG6 7JN. Re:fresh wellbeing drop-in cafe from Earley Help Hub. 10am-noon. Details: 07493 784091.

READING – Broad Street Mall.

Enjoy Christmas Carols by local choir ‘Moving On’ next to our Christmas tree in Central Square.

1pm-1.30pm. Details: broadstreetmall.com READING – Rising Sun Arts Centre, 30 Silver Street, Reading RG1 2ST. StrikeUp Forum Theatre Workshop.

7.30pm. Details: www. risingsunartscentre.org WOKINGHAM – St Paul’s Church Parish Rooms, Reading Road RG41 1EH. Coffee and Chat: a warm welcome, a listening ear.

2pm-4pm. Details: 0118 979 6267.

Saturday, November 27

BARKHAM – Village Hall, Church Lane RG40 4PL. Barkham Village Residents Association quiz evening.

7pm. £12. Details: 0118 978 3373 or social@ barkham.org.uk READING – Broad Street Mall. Letters to Santa: visit Santa’s little helpers, write a letter, post it and receive a free personalised letter from Lapland. 11am-4pm. broadstreetmall.com READING – Rivermead Leisure Complex RG1 8EQ. Reading Comiccon. Details: www. creedconventions.com READING – St Laurence’s Church, Friar Street RG1 1DA. Reading Festival Chorus in concert: Haydn’s Little Organ Mass, Monterverdi’s Cantate Domino, Telemann’s Laudate Johovam, and Vivaldi’s Gloria. 6pm. £15, students £5, under

18s free. Details: www. readingfestival.org.uk WOKINGHAM – Baptist Church, Milton Road RG40 1DE. You Too Music presents a workshop for people who used to play, aimed at people with grade three and above.

9.30am. £20. Details: www. youtoomusic.org.uk WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents Saturday market.

9am-3pm. Details: 07861 654674 or www. woodleytowncentre.co.uk WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents Christmas light switch-on.

4.30pm-5.30pm. Details: 07861 654674 or www. woodleytowncentre.co.uk

Sunday, November 28

BRACKNELL – The Lexicon.

Bracknell Vegan Market.

11am-4pm. Details: www. sparkleveganevents.com READING – Broad Street Mall. Letters to Santa: visit Santa’s little helpers, write a letter, post it and receive a free personalised letter from Lapland. 11am-4pm. broadstreetmall.com READING – Rivermead Leisure Complex RG1 8EQ. Reading Comiccon. Details: www. creedconventions.com TWYFORD – Bell Corner.

Twyford Together Christmas light switch-on.

5pm-6pm. Featuring Tree of Christmas Wishes decorated with baubels from the children at The Colleton Primary and Polehampton Junior schools. Details: www. twyfordtogether.org WOKINGHAM – Across town centre. Wokingham Winter Carnival.

11am05pm. On street entertainment, Comedy jugglers, morris dancing, Mr Twizzle. Santa’s Grotto in Wokingham Library. Carol service 4.30pm. Details: www. wintercarnival.co.uk WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents car boot sale. 8am-1pm.

Cars £10, vans £15.

Details: 07861 654674 or woodleytowncentre.co.uk

What’s What’s on on event event submission submission form form Holding a community event? Running a fun day? Organising a concert? Planning a friendship group? Get it listed in our what’s on guide by sending information to us. Use this form or email events@wokingham.today. Please note this service is for community groups,

Name Name

charities and not-for-profit activities. We cannot guarantee inclusion.

Address

Date of event: Venue of event: What will happen:

Address

Postcode Email Postcode

Reader travel HISTORIC YORK & the Dales

HistoricYork&theDales_D.pdf

Departing Mon 21 Mar ‘22 Join us on this lovely short break to beautiful Yorkshire, where we combine the rolling hills, panoramic landscapes and charming towns of the Yorkshire Dales with the historic city of York, famous for its glorious Minster and warren of narrow streets.

Your break includes Return coach travel from Reading 4 nights at a selected hotel in the Leeds area with dinner & breakfast 2 for 1 bar (6pm-9pm) on selected drinks Excursions to York, Skipton Market & Grassington Optional excursion to Knaresborough & Harrogate (£10pp)

5 Days by Coach

only £159

.99

Single Supplement £60

FOLKESTONE

& Classic Canterbury

Departing Fri 25 Mar ‘22 From our base in the town of Folkestone, we explore one of the most important cathedral cities in Britain, Canterbury.

From the timber-framed buildings to the cathedral’s glorious stained glass windows, this city’s history is on display everywhere you look.

Your break includes Return coach travel and ferry crossings from Reading 3 nights at the Grand Burstin Hotel, Folkestone with dinner & breakfast 2 for 1 bar (6pm-9pm) on selected drinks Entertainment every evening Excursion to Canterbury Optional excursion to Chatham & Rochester (£8pp)

4 Days by Coach

only £129

.99

Single Supplement £45

Operated by Just Go Holidays Ltd. Coach package holidays and short breaks are subject to Just Go! Holidays terms and conditions. Your booking is protected by Bonded Coach Holidays (BCH) and the Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust Limited (ABTOT); this is a government approved consumer protection scheme. Tours offered subject to availability and government guidelines. Errors and omissions excepted. Prices per person, based on two people sharing a double/twin room. Calls to 033 numbers are free within inclusive minutes packages otherwise standard rates apply.

For more information, or to book, please call

03332 342 527 Quote WPR

Time of event: Contact number for readers:

WPR_2021-11-15_ReadingToday_33x2 (1)_Just Go

Send Emailyour forms to: What’s On, Wokingham.Today, Crown House, 231 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS

or visit justgoholidays.com/WPR 033 numbers are free within inclusive minutes packages otherwise standard rates apply.

28 | LIFE

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READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, November 17, 2021

Winter Slaw In the kitchen

Festive drinks on the menu at Bru

freelyfruityuk

Freely Fruity

B

Serves 4 as a side

RITISH red cabbage is synonymous with this time of year, as are carrots, apples and onions.

This is a great dish to serve with a cheese tart or leftover Christmas ham; even turkey.

The dressing can be swapped for a classic vinaigrette if you prefer.

Ingredients

n Third red cabbage, shredded or grated n 1 carrot, peeled and grated n 1 x eating apple, sliced n Half an onion, peeled and sliced n 20g fresh coriander,

chopped n 20g fresh dill, chopped n 60g walnuts n 1 red chilli, sliced For the dressing n 75g mayonnaise n 75g natural thick yoghurt

Method

1. Place all of the slaw ingredients into a large bowl and mix thoroughly 2. When ready to serve, mix in mayonnaise and yoghurt

F

Recipe by Charlotte Simpkins for Freely Fruity www. facebook.com/

Seasonal fun for all ages at National Trust homes in Berkshire

D

ECORATED houses, frosty gardens and Christmas cheer is promised thanks to the National Trust.

The charity’s historic homes are to be decorated in the style of Christmases gone by, allowing visitors to stroll through frosty winter gardens, discover festive crafts to try at home, and enjoy some seasonal treats.

And for younger visitors, move over Father Christmas: Percy the Park Keeper is on hand. Venues will have special winter trails inspired by some of Nick Butterworth’s much-loved characters.

The self-led trail will invite families to join Percy’s team as he races to get the park and its animals ready for winter.

After reading Percy’s handwritten note and donning his famous hat, families will follow clues to help find Percy’s equipment and enjoy activities and games as they complete the trail.

At the end of the trail families can celebrate with a photo-op with Percy and they’ll take home a prize too.

At Cliveden, near Maidenhead, there will be frosty walks across 400 acres of gardens, woodland and riverside.

Percy the Park Keeper’s winter wander runs from Saturday, December 4, through to Thursday, December 23. Trail maps can be found at the information centre.

The team at Basildon Park is inviting the woodland into the house, and bringing lights to the wintry woodland.

National Trust says the walk to the house is full of shadow and mystery throughout autumn and lights transform it in winter into a twinkling

promenade of hope and reflection.

Inside, a forest of Christmas trees awaits to delight the senses with the sounds of woodland animals, the smell of pine, orange and cinnamon and the gentle caress of cool, silky fir branches.

There are also wreath-making workshops to book along on the Basildon Park website from November 26.

Percy the Park Keeper’s winter wander runs from Saturday, December 4, through to Monday, January 3, between 10am and 4pm.

The mansion at The Vyne, near Basingstoke, is decorated for a Victorian Christmas. Ground floor rooms are filled with trees and traditional decorations. An indoor family trail takes children on an adventure back in time.

Percy the Park Keeper’s winter wander runs from Saturday, December 4, through to Monday, January 3, between 10am and 4pm.

And at Greys Court, near Henleyon-Thames, the theme is the Brunner’s family traditions, Christmas dinner will be on the dining table, there are

handmade decorations, the scent of real fir trees fills the house and there will be the sound of music.

There are candlelit tours to book on selected evenings in December and, if you’re lucky, you may be able to sample some of Lady Brunner’s gingerbread, lovingly baked to her recipe by our volunteers. n National Trust properties running a Percy trail charge £2 to take part, plus normal admission fees. For more information, log on to nationaltrust. org.uk/percy

PHIL CREIGHTON

OR FANS of food and drink, it really is the most wonderful time of the year.

Restaurants and coffee shops everywhere have launched festive meals, sandwiches and drinks – old favourites with some winter warmers. Who needs chestnuts roasting on an open fire?

One chain in Reading has launched its festive menus: Bru is offering three special hot drinks and two desserts.

A popular Christmas flavour is gingerbread – the scent is definitely a sign of a seasonal feast.

Bru’s Gingerbread Latte is made with its 100% speciality Arabica espresso, featuring gingerbread syrup, cream and a gingerbread crumble.

A staple of any Christmas stocking is an orange, and for many that now means Terry’s Chocolate Orange.

Bru has created a Terry’s Hot Chocolate: Belgian drinking chocolate infused with orange, topped with cream and crushed Terry’s chocolate.

It can be paired with Bru’s Terry’s Chocolate Explosion, a waffle, served hot freshlymade topped Belgian chocolate and Terry’s Chocolate Orange Segments, served with handmade vanilla gelato.

Alternatively, there is a Black Forest Hot Chocolate and the Black Forest Waffle.

Belgian drinking chocolate is given a twist of Black Forest flavour, topped with cream, cherry sauce and chocolate shavings.

The limited-edition Black Forest Waffle is a freshly made waffle filled with morello cherry sauce, chocolate drizzle, and finished with cherry sauce and served with hand-made double chocolate gelato.

Bru’s managing director, Junaid Makda, said: “We’re so proud of these products and can’t wait for our customers to try them – the flavours are intense and we know that people are going to love them.

“This year we expect a greater buzz and atmosphere on the high street, and these festive favourites are perfect for enjoying with friends and family.”

Junaid added: “We’re really lucky at Bru because we have a manufacturing facility in-house, meaning that we can experiment and create new products that respond to customers’ tastebuds and the different seasons throughout the year.

“Our Christmas menu includes some really delicious items, and we’re certain they will leave our customers feeling festive.”

n For more details, log on to: www.brucoffee. co.uk

SPORT TODAY

READING EDITION

NO ONE CHRONICLES THE ACTION BETTER THAN US

17.11.21

HARRIES STEALS DRAW

BEST FOR HOCKEY ACTION

10-MAN SUMAS IN LATE LOSS

CELEBRATE WOMEN’S FOOTY

RAMS READY FOR TOP CLASH

LOCAL DERBY SPECIAL

RAMS CEO Gary Reynolds is predicting a remarkable and fascinating encounter when National One table-toppers Cinderford arrive at Old Bath Road on Saturday (3pm).

KNIGHT SAVES THE DAY Published by The Wokingham Paper Ltd, Crown House, 231 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS. Printed at Reach Watford © The Wokingham Paper Ltd, 2021

LATE WINNER SEES BOARS BEAT KESTRELS

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today SAM KNIGHT netted a last-minute winner as 10-man Eversley & California beat Woodley United.

The Kestrels started strongly in their Combined Counties Division One clash as they made the short trip to Eversley.

Woodley took the lead when Ben Anderson put them in front in the first-half, and things got better for them when Reece Buckett received a red card to put Eversley down a player.

With plenty to do in the secondhalf, the Boars showed plenty of fight to stage a remarkable comeback to take the points.

Paras Gill found the net in the 64th minute to level the scores and put the game in the balance.

The game ooked to be headed for a point apiece until Knight popped up with a decisive goal in stoppage time to win Eversley all three points.

The win puts the Boars up to fifth with 29 points from 17 matches,

while Woodley are in 20th with nine points from 12 games.

Eversley manager Matty Angell said: “What a group of playe rs, going down to 10 men and showing that fight within to come back from one nil down to win the game 2-1.

“MOTM by Ellis Wint and some composure from Sam Knight.”

The Forest of Dean men arrive having won nine of their 10 games to date, along with four from four in pre-season.

They stand seven points clear of second-placed Rosslyn Park and 14 ahead of the Berkshire side – albeit having played a game more – which means Rams’ return to action against one of the biggest tests they could face.

And Reynolds said: “Cinderford are an enormous challenge. You play a Gloucester side and you know what you’re going to get, which is an extremely robust form of rugby.

“We’ve locked horns on many occasions and we have a huge amount of respect for them – especially (DoR) Paul Morris and the Chairman Pete Bell.

“They live and breathe that club and so do the squad – they’re a very, very decent side and it will be a remarkably fascinating encounter.”

One of the highlights of Rams’ season to date was the 24-21 success against then leaders Rosslyn Park back last month, and Reynolds is confident another classic could be on the cards as the hosts look to bounce back after two straight defeats.

“It will be different to the Rosslyn Park game as both sides will be vying for set-piece – if you’re an aficionado of scrums, line-outs, driving mauls you’ll love it,” he said.

Rams go into the crucial contest having recorded six wins from nine games and the chief executive said: “I think the way the boys have performed shows we’ve kicked on since our first season in National One, and that’s all you can ask – that the squad gets better.

“I think the coaching team have done a first-class job.”

18

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READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, November 17, 2021

South Berks 1s v Amersham Pictures: Steve Smyth

MAGIC EIGHT: SOUTH BERKS WIN HIGH SCORING AFFAIR HOCKEY

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today

South Central Men’s Premier 2 SOUTH BERKSHIRE came out on top in a high-scoring affair at home to Amersham & Chalfont.

In a battle of two potent front lines, South Berks came out on top as they took the points with an 8-5 win.

The win puts them in fifth position with three wins from six matches.

South Central Men’s Division 1

SONNING gained a point against top of the table

Aylesbury at home with a 1-1 draw.

South Central Men’s Division 2

SOUTH BERKSHIRE 2s settled for a point on the road against Amersham & Chalfont 2s.

South Berks held the league leaders to a 1-1 stalemate to keep them in 11th position.

SONNING 2s added three points to their tally with a 3-1 home success against Yateley.

The victory puts them in third position in the, level on points with second and just one point off the top.

South Central Men’s Division 4

SOUTH BERKSHIRE 3s came away with the points with a spectacular attacking display at Berkhamstead & Hemel Hempstead.

South Berks were in clinical scoring form as they hit seven past their opponents with a hat-trick from James Barnard, a brace from Mike Longson and goals from Sam Coombes and Tom Pullen to secure a 7-2 win.

SONNING 3s had to settle for a point after a 2-2 draw at home to Henley 3s.

Women’s National Division 1 South

READING added three points to their total with three goals and a clean sheet over Surbiton 2s.

They are second in the table with five wins from eight matches.

South Central Women’s Premier 1

SONNING 1s fell to a home loss to Amersham & Chalfont to keep them in sixth in the table.

READING 2s put in an exceptional performance as they raced to a convincing win over Winchester 1s.

Reading scored nine without conceding to put them up to second in the table.

They are just two points behind league leaders Oxford after a promising start to the campaign.

South Central Women’s

Division 1

SOUTH BERKSHIRE picked up maximum points with a win and a clean sheet over Aylesbury.

Jemima Simpson gave South Berks the lead before two goals from Yellie Powley sealed the points with a 3-0 victory.

South Central Women’s Division 2

SONNING 2s were beaten away from home by a single goal against Staines.

South Central Women’s Division 3

SOUTH BERKSHIRE 2s were on the end of a heavy defeat at home to Witney 2s.

They lost out by five goals

to one to Witney which puts them in eighth with six points from six.

South Central Women’s Thames 1

SOUTH BERKSHIRE 3s pushed up the table with a clean sheet victory away from home.

They hit three past Wycombe 3s without reply to climb up to third, level on points with Reading 5s and three points behind leaders Wallingford 3s.

SONNING 3s took three points to stay level on points with South Berks in fourth place.

They secured a 3-1 win against Maidenhead 3s.

SPORT | 19

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Wednesday, November 17, 2021 READINGTODAY.ONLINE

FOOTBALL

JMA STUDENT SIGNS PROFESSIONAL DEAL WITH EVERTON

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham. today

JOHN Madejski Academy student Pat Nash has signed a professional contract with Everton Football Club.

A year after being released from Reading FC’s Academy, the talented goalkeeper has joined the Merseyside Premier League club.

JMA student and member of their Football Performance programme, Pat Nash, has signed a professional contract with the Toffees until June 2022.

After being released

by Reading FC, where he

had spent eight years, the 17 year old, named after former Northern Irish goalkeeper Pat Jennings, joined JMA’s Football Performance programme to continue on his path towards the professional game, while also being able to work on his A-Levels.

Pat said: “I was really lucky that Butch (JMA’s Football Performance Director Michael Butcher) offered me a place at JMA so early on, long before I was near to finishing year 11 and pre-covid.

“It gave me a plan to aim for and a pathway when I didn’t really have much motivation with my football

after a huge set-back having been released from Reading FC after eight years in the academy.”

“The programme itself was ideal as it gave me the opportunity to work towards my A-Levels whilst being able to get consistent training and matches.

“The teachers were always supportive and the football coaches allowed me to use the pitches and gym for me to do extras that I wanted to do.

“At JMA, everything is there for you to succeed, it is down to you to use it and apply yourself.

“For me, JMA was a brilliant stepping stone to

get into the pro game.”

Director of Football Performance, Michael Butcher said: “Pat genuinely epitomised everything you would expect from a top, top professional and by applying himself like that every single day .

“He would never miss a session either in the gym or on the pitch and would always be the last one off the pitch whether that be practicing his kicking or simply staying in goal.

“On top of this he was a model student. Spending time regularly in extra study sessions and working closely with his teachers.

“It is his dedication, focus, and willingness to sacrifice alongside the support the programme here offers that has given Pat the platform to now sign at a top premier league club.”

“We are all incredibly proud and at the same time excited as we know there is still more to come.”

PREVIEW

ROYALS LOOK FOR MOMENTUM IN FOREST CLASH READING FC will be looking to make it back to back wins in the Championship when they host Nottingham Forest on Saturday.

Having had a torrid run of four losses on the bounce, the Royals salvaged a win at Birmingham City in their final game prior to the international break thanks to a brace from 18-year-old forward Jahmari Clarke.

Clarke replaced George Puscas at half-time and made a significant impact as he netted twice to put Reading up to 16th in the table.

Manager Veljko Paunovic will return to the dugout having missed the previous two matches after serving a period of isolation having tested positive for covid.

Saturday’s opponents Forest had a torrid start to the season which saw Chris

Nottingham Forest v Reading picture: Steve Smyth Hughton lose his job as manager in September with the team on just one point after six defeats from their opening seven fixtures.

However, new boss Steve Cooper has enjoyed a new manager bounce as Forest

have flown up the table in recent weeks, overtaking Reading in the process.

They are currently in 13th position, three places above the Royals despite having the same number of points, but with a positive

goal difference.

Forest went into the break on the back of a comfortable 3-0 home win against Preston North End. Despite suffering a heavy 4-0 home defeat to highflying Fulham in October, Forest have been in fine form and have picked up 17 points from their last eight games to see the move well clear of the relegation zone.

Seasoned Championship goalscorer and former Royals loanee, Lewis Grabban, is Forest’s top scorer this season with eight goals from 16 matches.

The last meeting between the teams, in March 2021, ended in a 1-1 stalemate at the Forest ground after Yakou Meite grabbed a late equaliser to cancel out Tom Holmes own goal.

Forest’s last visit to the

Select Car Leasing Stadium saw Reading take three points.

The visitors went down to 10 players early as Ryan Yates was dismissed for handling the ball on the line.

Lucas Joao scored the resulting penalty and Michael Morrison ensured the points for Reading with a goal in the second-half.

Paunovic confirmed that he hopes to have some players back free from injury after the international break.

He said: “We are expecting at least three players to be back. That could be Alen (Halilovic), Tom (McIntyre) and Danny Drinkwater.

“And maybe there is a possibility for Andy Rinomhota. They are in the final stages.”

FOOTBALL

ROYALS LEGENDS TO RETURN FOR SPECIAL MATCH

Reading FC are celebrating their 150th anniversary LEGENDARY Reading FC managers Steve Coppell and Brian McDermott will field teams against each other in a special 150th anniversary match.

The match, which will take place on Saturday, May 21 at the Select Car Leasing Stadium, is part of the club’s special anniversary celebrations.

Both managers etched themselves into Reading FC history with respective promotion winning teams to the top flight of English football.

Coppell became the first Royals boss in history to lead his team to the top division when his team took the Championship by storm in the 2005/06, finishing with a remarkable 106 points, a record that still stands today, to win a place in the Premier League.

The Royals made a seamless transition to life in the Premier League in their debut season in the 2006/07 campaign and achieved an astonishing eighth placed finish.

Meanwhile, McDermott led the Royals back to the Premier League for their second stint in the top flight.

Having narrowly missed out on promotion, losing the play-off final, McDermott’s men dusted themselves off and came back stronger the next season.

His team finished with 89 points on the way to the Championship title as they soared past West Ham United and Southampton in the final months of the season with two particularly memorable victories away against both of those clubs.

The line-ups set to be finalised and announced by the club in the coming months. n Ticket details for the match will be released in the coming months by the club

WOMEN’S SUPER LEAGUE

HARRIES SNATCHES LAST-GASP POINT IN ROYALS COMEBACK AT WEST HAM West Ham 2 Reading 2

READING Women snatched a late equaliser as Emma Harries scored a stoppage time goal to rescue a point away at West Ham.

The Hammers took a two-goal lead into the break with goals from Lisa Evans and Grace Fisk.

Justine Vanheavermaet netted her first goal for the club, before Harries

squeezed in a late leveller.

Reading’s best chance of the half fell in the 19th minute when Rose broke through on goal one-on-one with the keeper, but West Ham goalkeeper Arnold rushed off her line to make a fantastic save.

Just moments after missing that golden chance, Reading were punished as West Ham broke up the other end and opened the scoring as Lisa Evans, on

loan from Arsenal, headed in from close range.

West Ham won a corner from the resulting freekick and extended their advantage as Grace Fisk was on hand to nod the ball in from a few yards out.

Reading got themselves back in the contest with 20 minutes to go as Vanheavermaet towered above the West Ham defence to power in a header from Bryson’s freekick.

The Royals had plenty of possession in the final stages of the game and were rewarded in the 92nd minute when Harries found the net.

Rose kept the ball smartly on the wing and then crossed the ball which was met by Harries on the volley, and despite the goalkeeper making her best efforts to keep it out, the officials awarded the goal, with replays showing it did cross the line.

West Ham: Arnold, Flaherty, Cissoko, Fisk, Longhurst, Svitkova, Stringer, Yallop, Hasegawa, Evans, Walker Subs: Leat, Parker, Joel, Filis, Cairns, Wyne, Garrad, Brynjardottir Reading: Moloney, Harding (c), Bryson, Evans, Vanhaevermaet, Peplow, Eikeland, Woodham, Chaplin, Dowie, Rose Subs: Stewart, Poulter, Roberts, Macdonald, Primmer, Harries, Lister Goals: Evans 19’, Fisk 35’, Vanheavermaet 70’

Select Car Leasing Stadium

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10-MAN SUMAS SUNK AS WINDSOR COMBINED COUNTIES FOOTBALL

Wokingham & Emmbrook were edged out by a late Windsor winner

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today

Sumas 1 Windsor 2 10-man Wokingham & Emmbrook fell to defeat at Lowther Road as visitors Windsor snatched the points with a late winner.

The Sumas went ahead early but after receiving a red card in the first-half, the away side recovered with two goals to

Wokingham & Emmbrook v Windsor Pictures: Andrew Batt

take the spoils.

The loss leaves the Sumas in 17th position in the Combined Counties Premier North on eight points.

Joe Cummuskey started with the captain’s armband for the Sumas after striker and club captain, Jake White, went off injured last weekend with an achilles injury which may see him miss the remainder of the season.

The Sumas made a flying start and took the lead in the second minute of the match.

Charley Tuttle delivered a free-kick into the box and when Windsor’s goalkeeper came way off his line to collect but missed the ball, Callum Eagle took advantage as he headed into the unguarded net.

Sumas had another brilliant delivery put into the box from a Tuttle free-kick, with his left foot proving to be a potent weapon throughout the match, but this time Windsor cleared.

Wokingham boss Eliot Whitehouse was forced into an early change as Cummuskey

picked up a knock and was replaced by Liam Eagle.

The hosts dominated much of the first-half as Luke Scope looked to break in behind the Windsor defence but was blocked off.

Windsor’s first shot came in the 14th minute on the half volley but the effort bounced harmlessly wide. They then hit another shot off target after a nice piece of attacking play.

Looking for a second goal, Scope played a neat through ball to Nathan Mindomba but

his cut back couldn’t find an orange shirt in the middle.

Sumas goalkeeper Sean Woodward was called into action when he turned away a powerful header to keep his team in front.

Another Tuttle free-kick caused chaos in the Windsor box but Callum Eagle could only find the side netting with his diving header.

Scope picked up a booking in the 23rd minute when the referee judged that he had led

with his elbow in an aerial challenge.

When Windsor goalkeeper Sam Butcher hit a loose pass into midfield, Harry Pearson Tried an audacious effort with a lob from 40 yards but the keeper recovered to catch the ball on the line.

The game took a twist in the 35th minute when Scope was dismissed for his second yellow card offence of the match when he caught a Windsor player with a late sliding tackle.

Woodward made another

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SNATCH LATE WINNER

From the middle Dick Sawdon-Smith

No tricks allowed from goal kicks

W

smart save just before the break to ensure his team went in with their lead intact.

Using their one man advantage, Windsor started the half strongly and applied the pressure to find a leveller just three minutes after the restart.

A low cross fizzed into the box and Liam Eagle was unfortunate to turn the ball into his own net as he tried to clear..

Tuttle put in another inviting free-kick delivery only for Windsor to clear the danger before Liam Eagle made two crucial blocks.

The home side more than held their own despite being down to 10 and had chances to restore their lead.

Josh Harris arrived at the back post to meet a cross but Butcher made a fine stop from his header.

Mindomba then came close with a header but had his goal bound effort hacked away by the defence.

The visitors began to grow in confidence as they looked to claim a winner as the Sumas’ energy levels began to fade after some exceptionally hard work to make up for having one less player.

Woodward pushed away a free-kick at the near post with just over 10 minutes remaining in the contest.

It looked as if the Sumas would be able to hold off Windsor to at least claim a point with some

resilient defending but they were pegged back with just eight minutes left as Excellence Muhemba powered in a header from a corner.

Windsor missed a golden chance to wrap up the victory as the ball was delivered across the face of goal, but with the goal gaping the onrushing striker missed the ball on the stretch.

Woodward then rushed off his line quickly to collect the ball at the feet of a Windsor forward with a positive piece of goalkeeping.

The Sumas forced the issue to try and find a stoppage time equaliser with a late free-kick that was whipped in from Tuttle, but

Windsor keeper Butcher took a well taken catch while being swarmed by a crowd of bodies as the match came to a close.

Wokingham return to action next week with an away trip to face Reading City in the league.

Wokingham & Emmbrook: Woodward, O’Connell, Cummuskey (c), C Eagle, Tuttle, Carter, Mullan, Mindomba, Bossman, Clark, Scope Subs: L Eagle, Harris, Shaw, Pearson Windsor: Butcher, Smyth, Jaggers, Losasso, White, Appleton, Horscroft, Hammond, Muhemba, Sowolona, Stewart Goals: C Eagle 3’, L Eagle (og) 50’, Muhemba 82’

REACTION

WHITEHOUSE RUES MISTAKES IN LATE DEFEAT

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today WOKINGHAM & EMMBROOK FC manager Eliot Whitehouse admitted he was ‘angry and disappointed’ after the Sumas’ late defeat to Windsor.

The Sumas went ahead, but conceded twice after half-time after they had gone down to 10 men.

“It’s disappointing and there is initially an element of anger,” said Whitehouse.

“I felt there were some poor decisions on our part.

“We got a sending off and then there were some poor decisions to get to their goal.”

Despite the defeat, Whitehouse was quick to praise the efforts of his side who more than held their own after playing close to an hour with one less player.

“There’s disappointment there because I feel that we were the team that created the better chances,” he continued.

“Had we kept 11 players throughout the game, I think we would have gone on and got something out of it.”

The Sumas are now without two of their most potent forward options with captain Jake White out injured for the remainder of the season with an achilles injury, and Luke Scope suspended after his dismissal.

Whitehouse continued: “Brandon Curtis is due back next week after an ankle issue and we’re hoping he can aid us in the attacking part of the pitch after Jake White’s injury and Luke Scope’s sending off.

“It’s something that we will review and assess over the next

week and see whether we need to recruit or adjust the side to get success at that end of the pitch.”

The Sumas are back in league action again this weekend when they make the short trip to face Reading City.

The Cityzens are currently 12th in the Combined Counties Premier North after they drew to North Greenford United last weeekend.

They have collected 17 points from 14 matches this season, while the Sumas have eight points form 11 games.

HEN asked about any other changes to the laws this season, I said there were some obscure ones.

However, there is one of them that is interesting, if only to show how they sometimes come about.

First we must go back to 1998 and the introduction of the law change that said a goalkeeper couldn’t handle the ball, if it was kicked to him by a team mate.

Some clever players learnt to flick the ball up with their feet and head it back to the goalkeeper to catch.

The law makers didn’t like this, so the following season, added to the law, a completely new cause, ‘a player must be cautioned (YC) if he initiates a deliberate trick for the ball to be passed to the goalkeeper with his head, chest, knee etc. to circumvent the law, whether or not the goalkeeper touches the ball with his hands’.

Now onto a couple of seasons ago, when the law on goal kicks was changed. The ball is in play now, when it was kicked and clearly moved.

No longer having to go outside the penalty area to be in play. The goalkeeper (or other player taking the kick) must not touch the ball again until it has been played by another player.

The sanction is an indirect free kick, unless the kicker who was not the goalkeeper, handled the ball. Then it would become a direct free kick.

Obviously remembering that earlier trick in an attempt to get around the law, someone said, ‘what if, the goalkeeper flicks the ball up at a goal kick to a nearby team mate, who heads it back to the goalkeeper to catch’.

The law makers hadn’t thought of this and initially said that the kick should be retaken but no sanction imposed.

However, this is now treated as a trick to circumvent the law and the changed law says that the goalkeeper should be cautioned and shown a yellow card.

The game is restarted with an indirect free kick.

I doubt if any of us will ever see this happen but it’s covered if it does.

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Eversley & California v Woodley United Pictures: Richard Milam

EVERSLEY STUN WOODLEY WITH STUNNING LAST-MINUTE WINNER FROM KNIGHT FOOTBALL ROUND-UP

BY ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today

Combined Counties Division One EVERSLEY & CALIFORNIA took the points in a local clash against WOODLEY UNITED with a dramatic late winner.

The Kestrels took the lead just before half-time through Ben Anderson and were added an extra boost when Eversley player Reece Buckett received a red card.

But the Boars made a remarkable turnaround in the second-half with 10-men as Paras Gill popped up with an equaliser in the 64th minute.

Then deep into stoppage time with the game headed for a point each, Eversley ensured that they would take all three as Sam Knight scored a decisive winner.

FA Trophy first-round BINFIELD booked their place in the next round of the FA Trophy with a home win over Cinderford Town.

Sean Moore put the Moles ahead in the first minute and then added his second of the game in the 26th minute.

Callum Bunting netted with the final attack of the game to see Binfield safely through to the next round.

Combined Counties Premier North

READING CITY had to settle for a point against North Greenford United.

The Cityzens took the lead after Harry Grant scored from the penalty spot but they were pegged back deep into stoppage time as the visitors scored a leveller.

B&B Charles Twelvetree Cup READING YMCA put their name in the hat for the next round with a penalty shootout win at Cholsey United.

FINCHAMPSTEAD breezed through to the next round after

they hit five past Compton.

Joel Day and Lewis Francis both netted braces and Stephen Hunt added to the score to see Finch through with a 5-1 triumph.

TWYFORD & RUSCOMBE got past Datchet with a penalty shootout victory.

Thames Valley Premier League WOODLEY UNITED ROYALS were on the end of a 6-0 defeat at home to Westwood Wanderers.

The loss leaves Woodley in 14th position after nine matches.

Thames Valley Division One

HURST took three points on the road with a 3-2 win at Westwood Wanderers Reserves.

Shaun Bannon Joseph Bonney and Kenny Evans scored to earn an away win for the league leaders.

Thames Valley Women’s Division One TILEHURST PANTHERS earned their fourth win of the league season with a five-star performance.

Lydia Vettese notched a hattrick and goals from Deanna Cane and Leah Why wrapped

up a 5-0 win over Stonesfield Strikers.

WARGRAVE fell to a 4-0 defeat against top of the table Badshot Lea.

Thames Valley Women’s Division 3S S4K BERKS COUNTY put in an astonishing away display at Yateley United with a thumping victory.

Five goals from Magan Cox, four goals from Samantha Sadler, a brace from Kiah Owen and goals from Grace Belstone, Amber Newhouse and CharisseEllouise Tregaar helped the Fawkes to a resounding 14-0 success.

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FA WSL

ROYALS LOOK TO CONTINUE MOMENTUM WITH SEAGULLS VISIT

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham. today

READING FC Women are hoping to continue their unbeaten run when they host Brighton & Hove Albion on Sunday.

The Royals have picked up seven points from their last three Women’s Super League matches to help recover after a difficult start to the campaign.

Kelly Chambers’ side enjoyed back-to-back wins against Aston Villa and Birmingham City before they picked up a late point at the weekend against West Ham United.

Sunday’s draw puts

Reading up to eighth in the table, one place ahead of Manchester City because of their superior goal difference.

Meanwhile, Sunday’s visitors to the Select Car Leasing Stadium have made a flying start to the season.

Under the tutelage of experienced manager Hope Powell, Brighton sit in third position with 15 points from seven games.

The Seagulls started the season with consecutive victories as they beat West Ham 2-0 before they thumped five past Birmingham away from home without reply.

They then suffered a

shock home defeat to Villa and were then beaten by current WSL champions Chelsea 3-1.

They got back to winning ways against Tottenham with a late winner from Victoria Williams.

Powell’s team suffered their second defeat of the season with a 3-0 loss to Arsenal but responded by beating Everton away from home and then scored a stoppage-time winner at the weekend to see off Leicester City.

It has been almost a year since the two sides last met, when the Royals took all three points away from Brighton in December 2020.

The Seasiders last trip to the Select Car Leasing Stadium came in April 2019, where again Reading ran out with maximum points after Rachel Furness’ solitary goal was enough to take the match.

Jess Fishlock netted twice and despite a goal from Brighton’s Inessa Kaagman, Rachel Rowe wrapped up the points with a third for Reading in stoppage time.

Chambers said: “It is

important to keep getting points, scoring goals , as where we’ve had such a big transition of players, you’ve got to allow time for them to gel and understand the way you want to play.

“I think now the girls have grown week on week, and they’re showing that they are really building as a team, the togetherness they have in the squad.

“It’s nice now to build a little bit of momentum.”

SKY BET CHAMPIONSHIP

CARROLL JOINS READING ON SHORT TERM DEAL READING FC have signed former England international striker Andy Carroll on a free transfer.

The experienced striker joins the squad at the Select Car Leasing Stadium having been released from his contract at Newcastle United at the end of last season.

He joins on a short term deal with the Royals that will last until mid-January.

The 32-year-old has had two spells with his hometown club Newcastle, scoring 32 goals in 107 appearances.

His first spell with Newcastle won him a big-money move to Liverpool in 2011, when the Merseyside club splashed out £35million to sign the striker.

He netted six times in 42 games for the Reds in a move that ultimately didn’t work out, which led to his

Andy Carroll has joined Reading FC sale to West Ham United, where he spent the next seven seasons of his career.

Carroll also has two international goals to his name in nine caps for

England The Royals have chosen to look to the free agents market to bolster their squad amid their current injury crisis.

Veljko Paunovic’s team have been hampered by injuries to several key firstteam players throughout the campaign, having as many as 12 players injured at one time.

Among the players on the sidelines include forwards Lucas Joao, Yakou Meite, Femi Azeez, Junior Hoilett and Jahmari Clarke.

That leaves just George Puscas as the only fit senior striker at the club, who is currently on a 21 game goal drought.

Royals boss Veljko Paunovic said, “This is a deal which we have been working on for some time and are confident it is the right move for both player and club.

“Andy is looking for a new challenge in his career and we need a player with his quality and vast experience.

“So this is a great match and I’m really looking forward to working with Andy over the next couple of months.”

Royals Chief Executive Dayong Pang said, “With long-term injuries to two of our key goalscorers, our strength in depth in attack has understandably been limited all season, so I am very pleased that Andy has agreed to join us.

“With a proven eye for goal, I am sure he will offer our first team squad something different as we approach another busy period of Championship football.”

Carroll has been assigned the number nine shirt in the squad.

FOOTBALL

FC BRACKNELL SHINES LIGHT ON WOMEN’S FOOTBALL WEEKEND

FC Bracknell FC Bracknell has been celebrating the Women’s Football Weekend by shining a spotlight on all those who play and volunteer for the club.

The Farley Wood-based club handed over its Instagram account to Marie Cobb, its director of female football, and age group manager Becky Sarney to mark the event that is now in its third year.

And it comes as the number of female players at the club goes from strength to strength.

As well as a girl-only under 10 team – FC Bracknell Wolves - there are many other girls teams.

There is also a training programme on Sundays for girls aged five-11.

FC Bracknell chairman Neil Graham said: “Women’s Football Weekend is becoming an increasingly important date in the calendar.

“It shows how much the game is growing, and it is a great opportunity for us to showcase all the brilliant work that is going on at the club to increase female participation.

“This is a particularly poignant season for us as we now have a girls-only team.

“But I’m also proud of all the girls and women involved in other aspects of the club.

“We have women coaches, referees, club officials and team admins.

“And without their work and dedication, our teams would not be taking to the pitch every week.

“We want to get as many girls and women involved in football as possible. n Contact FC Bracknell to find out more about playing or volunteering at the club.

BADMINTON

RANGERS TOURNAMENT RETURNS AFTER TWO YEAR ABSENCE

By ANKUSH KAPOOR sport@wokingham.today LOCAL badminton players made their long-awaited return as the Rangers Sports tournament took place over the weekend.

With a two year absence due to covid, the tournament at Loddon Valley Leisure centre took place on Sunday, November 14.

The tournament attracted a lot of badminton enthusiasts from the area with 45 teams participating and many members of the public turned up to witness it.

The teams were divided into nine groups of five teams each and the top teams were to qualify for the next round playing for two separate Trophies – Champions

Cup and Rangers Cup. While most Shuttlers were pleased with their performance in their four group games, only the remaining sixteen went on to play in the PreQuarterfinals which produced eight quarter finalists which were then down to the four semi-finalist for the two cups.

After more than 90 group

games, eight quarter-finals and four semi-finals, the four teams made it to the finals which were always going to be a close contest.

The Champions Cup final was contested between Vishvesh/Ravi against Babar/Shakeel.

There wasn’t a dull moment in the two set game between arguably the two most consistent teams in the competition.

Vishvesh/Ravi took an early lead in the first set but Babar/Shakeel took the set with the magic 21st point.

The second set was equally interesting with some critical rallies ending on unforced errors on either side.

In the end, Babar/Shakeel held their ground and emerge as winners.

With the awards

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ATHLETICS

READING MAKE CROSS COUNTRY RETURN Reading Athletics Women

By SARAH HOLMES sport@wokingham.today THE first outing of the cross country season kicked off this weekend for Reading Athletics Club in Kings Meadow, Bournemouth.

It was a perfect day conditions wise for racing, with the senior women competing 6k on a hard and fast course.

The Senior women had a strong representation with many athletes competing off the back of a successful track season and other athletes returning from injury or with heavy legs from the Reading HM. The Reading ladies put on a gutsy display with everyone starting strong to get into good positions on the fast first lap.

Lauren Church led the team up and over the hills, through the woods to finish in a career high position of fourth, showing her continued form from the successful track season.

Emma Howsham followed closely in eighth position having a determined run showing her continued excellent form with Laurie Marlow completing the scoring team by finishing strongly in 15th position for a superb race.

Next home was Sophie Crumley with the performance of the day finishing 18th after a challenging year with injury, and Sarah Holmes then followed in 30th with a

READING ROCKETS were edged out in a pulsating game away at Worthing Thunder.

Rockets had the lead for more of the time but within two minutes of the start of the final quarter, a pair of refereeing decisions went seriously against Rockets as they enjoyed a 72-67 lead.

Reis Pinnock made the best stop of the day and then appeared to take a charge moments later but the officials called a foul on him followed by a technical foul and Reis exited the game.

Jaz Bains drained a treble from the top of the key for Rockets before Pinnock went coast to coast to finish before a Thunder three drew the teams

FOOTBALL FA Trophy first-round Binfield 3-0 Cinderford Town Combined Counties Division One Eversley & California 2-1 Woodley United

B&B Charles Twelvetree Cup Cholsey United 1-1 Reading YMCA Compton 1-5 Finchampstead Twyford & Ruscombe 1-1 Datchet (5-4 pens) Thames Valley Premier League Woodley United Royals 0-6 Westwood Wanderers Thames Valley Division One Westwood Wanderers Reserves 2-3 Hurst

confident performance to start the season.

Hayleigh Wood followed in 41st position with a solid run showing all her additional half marathon miles are paying off in racing, with Georgia Walton having a fantastic return to cross country racing finishing in 66th position with her fastest mile pacing in recent years.

Lee Fellows brought the team home in 79th position, proving her excellent range across all distances backing up her Reading HM PB from

the previous weekend.

Overall it was a very successful day for the ladies with the team finishing in second position.

The team will next compete in their next cross outing on Saturday, December 4.

Meanwhile, Berry Hill Park in Mansfield played host to the 2021 edition of the National XC relays.

Run over a very challenging course that encompasses various undulating sections, as well as a twisting wooded passage, Reading

level on 11 each. Lufile worked inside scoring off offensive rebounds and power plays.

Captain Ben Dixon hit his first from the free throw line before Rockets finished the period with three trebles for Bains, Dixon and then the academy star Live Kivuvu as the game was tied on 24 each at the first break.

Isaac Round drove to score at the start of the second quarter before Lewis Champion took a charge and Round stroked a treble quickly followed by another Bains treble tying the game on 34 apiece.

In a few minutes all three of Rockets starting guards were called for three fouls meaning head coach Dan Pearson kept looking along his bench swapping players to try and minimise the damage.

Sam Toluwase rose to the occasion again scoring off an offensive rebound, drawing the foul and making it a three point

AC’s Senior Men’s team would have to navigate two laps of this gruelling terrain, totalling 5km per leg.

Fielding two teams of four athletes, the boys in red, white and blue were well represented in the Nottinghamshire countryside.

Present on the start line for the first leg were Sam Rodda for the A-team, and David Lewis for the B-team; with 172 teams competing, the competition was fierce.

TABLE TENNIS

ROCKETS FALL SHORT IN THUNDEROUS BATTLE Worthing Thunder 97 Reading Rockets 90

Saturday, November 13

Combined Counties Premier North Reading City 1-1 North Greenford United Sumas 1-2 Windsor

BASKETBALL

By GARY JOHNSON sport@wokingham.today

RESULTS

KINGFISHER BEAT SONNING IN DIVISION 1 CLASH play.

But Rockets fired again with a 10-3 run to lead again 68-65 before the torturous opening minutes of the fourth quarter for Rockets.

However this Rockets side is deep on commitment and guile and despite being a key man short drew the scores level on 77 as Toluwase hit a treble causing Thunder to take a time out with almost 6 minutes remaining.

With under three minutes left the score was 84-83 in Thunder’s favour when Taylor hit the brace of trebles for Thunder.

Rockets began to sense this wasn’t going to be their night as Lufile appeared to score and get fouled but nothing was given.

When Champion joined Pinnock with five personal fouls it was left to Bains to have the last say with his sixth treble and leaving the score 97-90 Thunder’s way.

IN Division 1 Kingfisher C were 6-4 winners at Sonning Common & Peppard B with Shreesh Gupte and Daniel McTiernan both winning twice.

Jamie Barlow got a maximum and Nigel Maltby managed a single for Sonning Common after he beat Adrian Cretu in the final set of the night. Kingfisher B moved up the table after an 8-2 win against Tidmarsh A, Phil Mead and Alan Cummings with trebles while Mike Stanners beat Simon Barter.

Our Lady of Peace A kept leaders Kingfisher A just about in their sights after they were comprehensive 9-1 winners at Tilehurst RBL A, Sam Ricks and Steve Murgatroyd with maximums, while for the Tilehurst team Keith Winter had a notable win over Ian Cole.

OLOP go top but Kingfisher A have two matches in hand. Sonning Common & Peppard A moved up to third spot after they were 7-3 winners against Kingfisher D, Neil Hurford with another hat trick while Malcolm Gregory managed a fine win over Julian Telford.

Division 2 saw a top of the table clash between Sonning Sports A and Reading FC A and it was Sonning Sports who retaining their undefeated status with a 7-3 win to take top spot.

Nick Sears was the star on the night, winning all three, with Paul Savage recording two wins, after only losing to Mike Childs, and Bob Woodmansee losing to both Wayne Alleyne and Mike, but winning his opener, against Tony Alleyne.

HOCKEY Women’s National Division 1 South Reading 3-0 Surbiton 2s South Central Men’s Premier 2 South Berkshire 8-5 Amersham & Chalfont South Central Men’s Division 1 Sonning 1-1 Aylesbury South Central Women’s Premier 1 Sonning 1-3 Amersham & Chalfont South Central Women’s Division 1 South Berkshire 3-0 Aylesbury

Sunday, November 14 FOOTBALL Women’s Super League West Ham 2-2 Reading

Thames Valley Women’s Division One Badshot Lea 4-0 Wargrave Tilehurst Panthers v Stonefield Strikers Thames Valley Women’s Division 3S Taplow United 4-2 Wargrave Development Yateley United 0-14 S4K Berks County

FIXTURES

Saturday, November 20

FOOTBALL Combined Counties Premier North Reading City v Sumas FA Vase second-round Harefield United v Berks County Combined Counties Division One Hillingdon Borough v Woodley United Rayners Lane v Eversley &

California Thames Valley Premier League Finchampstead v Yateley United Maidenhead Town v Reading City U23’s Mortimer v Woodley United Royals Westwood Wanderers v Reading YMCA RUGBY UNION National Division One Rams v Cinderford South West 1 East Bracknell v Newbury Blues

Sunday, November 21 FOOTBALL Women’s Super League Reading v Brighton & Hove Albion

Berks & Bucks Women’s Cup Woodley United v Abingdon United Mortimer v Shinfield Rangers Holyport v Caversham United Wallingford Town AFC v Wargrave Thames Valley Women’s Division 3S Caversham AFC v Taplow United S4K Berks County v Newbury Development