The Wokingham Paper, May 28, 2020

COVERING WOKINGHAM, FINCHAMPSTEAD, EARLEY, WINNERSH, SHINFIELD, WOODLEY, TWYFORD & SURROUNDING AREAS

THEWOKINGHAMPAPER

THE VOICE OF THE BOROUGH

Government accused of breaking Covid cash promise EXCLUSIVE

By JESS WARREN jwarren@wokinghampaper.co.uk THE Government has broken its promise of reimbursing councils for their pandemic expenses, said the leader of the borough council.

WOKINGHAM.TODAY

SHOPS PREPARE FOR RE-OPENING

Thursday, May 28, 2020 No. 263

70p

LOTTERY CASH P11 HELPS COWSHED

EXCLUSIVE

By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokinghampaper.co.uk

RETAILERS across the borough are looking forward to reopening their doors after the Prime Minister announced they can start trading again.

Cllr John Halsall told Wokingham.

Today that the Government has shifted its position on financial help multiple times — with Wokingham now receiving the least help in the country.

“We track our expenditure changes everyday, and submit them to the Government every two weeks,” explained Cllr Halsall.

“Our original prognosis was that we could recover the money spent.

“Then we thought we could recover the money spent on behalf of projects directly related to the Government actions.

“But it changed from being what was actually spent to being formulaic.

“We will not be recovering all income or expenses lost in the borough.

“Once again, we are the lowest council to receive funding support. But the promise was that it would be reimbursed.”

Cllr Halsall believes the deprivation model used to judge financial need was not a good measure for the nature of the pandemic.

He said: “I feel that the formula based on deprivation is an inappropriate measure for Covid-19.

“Wokingham has a high demographic of older people, and we know that older people are suffering more deaths and more costs associated with Covid-19.

“So I can’t see how deprivation is a good model to use. It will have a significant negative impact on financial reserves.”

Now, the council is working out how they will top-up their reserve funds and maintain its services.

On Monday, Boris Johnson said that from June 15, non-essential shops will be allowed to welcome customers.

Outdoor markets can return from Monday if they have been closed.

While Wokingham and Woodley have both operated smaller markets during the pandemic, with essential retailers running stalls, specialist markets have not been running.

Woodley is to relaunch its Artisan Market on Wednesday, June 3. This runs from 9am to 2pm.

Wokingham MP Sir John Redwood is one of those who have been advocating a return to retail and has welcomed the announcement, saying it will save livelihoods as well as lives.

And the Wokingham Business Association wants to ensure that it does what it can to entice shoppers back to the town centres.

Under the new rules, outdoor markets and car showrooms are being allowed to reopen earlier that indoor stores as the risk of transmitting the coronavirus is lower outside than inside, and it is easier to apply social distancing rules – that is keeping 2 metres apart from each other – than inside shops.

Although supermarkets, pharmacies and newsagents have continued to trade as usual through the pandemic, the Government is now planning to allow non-essential retailers to start trading again, which it says is vital to restarting the UK economy.

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PUPIL ROWS ALL P26 THE WAY TO MILAN

FIND IS A BIT OF A BOMBSHELL ... P3

MASKS ARE A REAL WINNER P21

PAMPERED PETS: Meet the happy pigs who CONCERNS OVER enjoy going for walks and learning tricks P16 CYCLEWAY P6

2 | NEWS

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 emailing us Newsroom: 0118 327 2662 Advertising: 0118 327 2662 Write to: The Wokingham Paper, Crown House, 231 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS

Email news@wokinghampaper.co.uk Editor • Phil Creighton Reporter • Jess Warren Sports reporter • Andy Preston

From the editor Once again, your Wokingham Paper appears in a reduced form as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.

With no sport or arts events taking place, we have reduced pagination accordingly, and thank you for your understanding during this time.

We thank also our advertisers who are sticking with us through these strange and difficult days.

We are making every effort to ensure that your favourite local newspaper is available to you in printed form throughout the lockdown situation – you will be able to buy The Wokingham Paper from all good supermarkets, newsagents and petrol stations as normal.

There is also a digital version of the paper, which will be available on Friday evenings.

And our website is updated seven days a week, visit Wokingham.Today.

At times like this, it is important that the community has a local voice and we are proud to be yours. The best way for you to support us is to buy a copy each week.

Thank you for your support.

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY / THEWOKINGHAMPAPER Thursday, May 28, 2020

Family call for action after robbers target their Mother’s grave EXCLUSIVE

By JESS WARREN jwarren@wokinghampaper.co.uk A WOKINGHAM family say they are distraught as their Mother’s grave has been targeted by thieves for the past four years.

Lesley North said that grave robbers have been repeatedly stealing floral displays next to her Mother’s headstone at All Saints Church since 2016.

She explained that her sister, Gillian Clark visited the churchyard on Thursday, May 14, to discover that the most recent pots of violets had been taken.

Ms North said: “I am absolutely seething. Once again some lowlife has stolen my Mother's flowers from her grave.

“My Mother died four years ago, and on her birthday, Christmas and Easter the family would put lovely flower displays in tubs or troughs on her grave.

“However within days of us leaving the flowers there, they would be stolen. The thieves don’t take cut flowers, just the displays, large or small.

“I can't believe any decent person would steal from a churchyard. They are literally grave robbers. As far as I’m concerned, they are the scum of the Earth and don’t deserve to be called human.”

Ms North explained that last year, she visited the church’s parish office, The Cornerstone, to complain about the thefts.

“They told me nobody had raised it as an issue before,” she said. “But the bedding plants in their borders had also been stolen.

“I think it must happen to a lot of graves, I’ve seen lots of them now have artificial flowers instead of displays, and those don’t get taken.

It must have been going on for a while, I’m sure we’re not the only ones.

“It’s so frustrating that we can’t give our Mother flowers on her birthday.”

Ms North explained that her sister is now going to warn other people about the thefts.

She said: “She is going to make a sign and pin it on the churchyard gate, warning other families as to what's going on, and to be on the lookout for these morons that desecrate our loved ones’ graves.”

The Revd Canon David Hodgson, at All Saints Church, said: “We are very sorry to hear that flowers had been stolen from a grave in our churchyard.

“This is very upsetting for the family members. We urge anyone affected to report these incidents through our website or email to us as soon as they occur.

“The churchyard is open to the public every day, with public footpaths through it.”

But Ms North is calling for something more to be done.

She added: “If the odd display had vanished, it could have been the occasional person strolling through the graveyard and spotting something that took their fancy.

“Every single display we have ever placed has been stolen.

“Something has to happen to stop this after four years.”

Allotment hives are buzzing THE latest tenants at a Woodley allotments are making a buzz.

Last year, the Reading Road site launched a bee keeping project, under the guidance of bee expert and allotment tenant Steve Cook, who is an official swarm collector.

A mixture of experienced and new keepers, organisers say it has created a lovely friendly, supportive and educative group.

Carolyn Davies, a committee member of the Reading Road Allotment Tenants Association, said: “There are currently eight active hives at the allotments, however, another allotment tenant recently got her first hive in kit form and is planning to put it together this weekend using a spare donated hive.

“I’m hoping we might get a taste of Woodley Allotments’ honey special brand.”

‘We were at the development peak when virus hit’ � Continued from front page

This topping up is proving a challenge, as the council relies heavily on housebuilder contributions to fund new infrastructure projects.

“We are now working out what the recovery plan needs to be,” said Cllr Halsall. “It's particularly important because we’re a borough suffering a huge amount of development. And we were at the peak of development when the emergency hit.

“In order to sensibly carry out development, infrastructure must be laid first. And we borrow money to build the road in anticipation of funds from the community infrastructure levy (CIL) and Section 106 money.”

But last week, the Government announced that developers could delay their CIL payments, in order to get the property market back on track.

Cllr Halsall said: “There’s big money at risk — approximately £60 million, and developers are already making noises about reducing their CIL. “We will have to review the capital budget, and we are desperately trying to get the attention of the Government to understand our predicament.”

And now, the borough is being targeted for more development.

“Some developers are saying they can’t fulfil their commitments, but are already submitting planning applications on the grounds of speculative development,” he said.

“Our five year land supply is short because developers aren’t developing.

“Instead, they’re asking for permission to build more.

“This is not what the planning process was intending to achieve.

We’re trying to get a temporary change in rules.

“Housebuilders are a powerful lobby to the Government, and as the leader of a borough council, my voice is small in comparison. But I'm going to keep shouting and screaming, and we will fight our corner, and never give in.

“We have built as good a team as we possibly can to fight appeals.”

And as construction slows across the borough, this causes further complications for the council budget.

“All these things are holistic, the finances are based on a number of things working in conjunction with one another. Due to the scale of development in the borough, this has had a huge impact on the budget.

“Our task now is to recast what we’re doing. We need to look at sources of income, whether grants or third party revenue, we need to reduce costs, and we need to see what we can do with our assets.

“We now need to absorb, digest and understand the situation to recast our policies accordingly.”

Mayors staying on for now BOTH Woodley and Earley Town Councils are to keep their current mayors for the forseeable future.

Normally, there would be an annual council meeting at this time and the new candidates’ honorary positions would be installed, but the coronavirus has put this on hold.

Cllr Kay Gilder is the Woodley mayor and Cllr David Hare the Earley mayor.

Thursday, May 28, 2020 THEWOKINGHAMPAPER / WOKINGHAM.TODAY

NEWS | 3

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Bomb shelter unearthed at the bottom of Woodley garden EXCLUSIVE

By TAZ USHER tusher@wokinghampaper.co.uk NORMALLY people find fairies at the bottom of their garden. Or even a compost heap. But a Woodley man has discovered a blast from the past.

Brian Hunt, who lives on Reading Road, has unearthed a Second World War bomb shelter following an investigation into an unusual spot in his garden.

He unearthed the historical relic earlier this month after years of suspecting something peculiar was beneath his lawn – he’s lived there since 1975.

It’s not the only unusual find in his home: he’s previously dug up a Greek urn. But it is the bomb shelter that is attracting attention.

Mr Hunt said: “Over the last 10 years or so I’ve noticed something solid under the grass while gardening.

“Warmer summers meant the spot became more obvious and caused a mossy, lighter patch of grass to appear.”

The curious resident – who took advantage of the lockdown period to investigate the section – added: “I decided to dig up the area of lawn, suspecting to find a wall or patio underneath but was very surprised to find what I did.

“After 10 minutes of digging I uncovered a hole in the roof of the shelter which I was able to look through and soon realised what it was.

Wokingham man arrested after fatal road collision

“The shelter is roughly 7ft by 9ft and constructed with thick concrete and 8in to 10in iron bars so it’s likely the shelter was a special design rather than the typical Anderson shelters of the era.

“There’s a lot of glass and rubble in the shelter which I imagine was poured through the hole so it’s difficult to make out what else is in there apart from a shelf which I can see.”

Since finding the artefact, Mr Hunt has used title deeds to identify the shelter’s potential owner.

The records show that the previous homeowner, George Cripps, worked as a street mason in the area and may have built the shelter after he bought the property in 1929.

Mr Hunt said: “In the past, I’ve found things in my garden like a concrete shed and a Greek urn which I dug up under the flower beds.

“This, however, is something I never expected to find and by the looks of it required a lot of skill and motive to create.”

And addressing his future plans for the shelter, the Woodley resident added: “I’ve had suggestions from friends about what to do with it. The ideas include turning it into a wine cellar, adding open steps or making a garden feature of it.”

“My favourite idea so far is that I remove the moss from it and surround it with gravel and Mediterranean grasses.”

Brian Hunt has found a bomb shelter at the bottom of his garden. These photos were taken by placing the camera into the hole he’d created and show the space as it is today. He is thinking of turning it into a wine cellar or a garden feature

Appeal for witnesses after woman dies at crossing AN APPEAL for witnesses has been launched after a 76-year-old woman died following a collision at a busy road junction in neighbouring Reading.

The incident took place around 10.50am on Saturday, May 23, on Wokingham Road, as it becomes Cemetery Junction.

It involved a motorcyclist, who was riding a blue and silver Yamaha, and the woman, who was crossing the road.

The junction links Earley with Reading, and the crossing is in view of several shops including a Co-operative store, a travel agent, a Post Office and takeaways.

The woman was taken to hospital for treatment, but police said she sadly died.

No arrests have been made.

Thames Valley Police closed the

road for several hours to allow officers to investigate. Now they are appealing for witnesses to come forward.

Investigating officer, Sergeant Mark Gawthrop of the Roads Policing Unit, said: “I would like to speak to anyone who witnessed this incident, or who has any information about it.

“I would particularly like to speak to anyone who was driving in the area at the time, or along Kings Road, Reading, shortly before the collision, who may have dash-cam footage which is relevant to our investigation.

“If you can help, please call Thames Valley Police on 101, quoting reference number 43200152514, or make a report online.”

Cemetery Junction in Reading Picture: Phil Creighton

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A WOKINGHAM man is one of two people who have been arrested following fatal a road collision in the early hours of Saturday morning.

The incident took place at 5.17am, on the A4 Bath Road in Reading, heading towards Calcot.

Thames Valley Police officers saw a blue BMW travelling at high speed and commenced a pursuit. The vehicle failed to stop, and the pursuit was cancelled.

Shortly afterwards, the BMW was involved in a collision and a 41-year-old man died at the scene.

His next of kin have been informed and are being supported by specially trained officers.

Officers arrested a 31-year-old man from Reading on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving, driving while unfit through drink, driving while unfit through drugs and possession of a class C controlled drug.

And a 27-year-old man from Wokingham was also arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving.

They have both been released on police bail until Thursday, June 18.

Sergeant Darren Brown of the Serious Collision Investigation Unit which is based at Three Mile Cross, said: “We are appealing for any witnesses to this collision, or anybody who may have seen the blue BMW in the area prior to the collision to please come forward.

“Any drivers that were in the area at the time and who have a dash-cam, please can I ask you to check this for footage.

“If it has captured anything that can assist this investigation, again, please get in touch with police.

“You can do so by making a report online or by calling the 24-hour non-emergency number 101, quoting reference 43200152128.

“Alternatively, for 100% anonymity, you can call the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

Thames Valley Police has made a mandatory referral to the IOPC as a result of this incident due to prior police contact.

The IOPC has decided to independently investigate this incident and Thames Valley Police is fully co-operating with the investigation.

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY / THEWOKINGHAMPAPER Thursday, May 28, 2020

WHAT WE ARE DOING DURING THE CRISIS Parks and Open spaces Our parks and open spaces are open to all our residents to enjoy, but visitors must continue to use social distancing.

Please remember to keep a 2m gap between you and others, at all times.

Children’s playground are closed to ensure the safety of the public during our current pandemic Please be respectful of the countryside and help keep our spaces clean and safe.

Fostering

Business Support

Fostering is rewarding in many different ways.

We are always looking for new or experienced fosters carers in the borough. We are still actively recruiting and continuing with new enquiries and applications.

For more information, email us: fostering@wokingham.gov.uk or call: 0118 974 6204

We’ve now paid out more than £16m in Coronavirus support grants to businesses. We still have 30% of eligible business to help out.

Could this be your business, or someone you know?

Apply on our website: www.wokingham.gov.uk

Domestic abuse If you are at risk or experiencing domestic abuse, you can still seek refuge and support during the Coronavirus crisis.

The National Domestic Abuse helpline is free to call 24/7 on 0808 2000 247

We can all help control the virus by: • staying at home as much as possible • working from home if you can • limiting contact with other people • keeping your distance if you go out (2 metres apart where possible) • washing your hands regularly Do not leave home if you or anyone in your household has symptoms.

We continue to work with the voluntary sector to provide a COVID-19 response service, including Citizens Advice, who are organising this helpline.

TO GET HELP YOU CAN: VISIT www.citizensadvicewokingham.org.uk EMAIL admin@citizensadvicewokingham.org.uk CALL 0300 330 1189 Enter 0118 978 7258 if prompted Make sure you stay up to date with the latest accurate information @wokinghamboroughcouncil @wokinghamBC www.wokingham.gov.uk

Thursday, May 28, 2020 THEWOKINGHAMPAPER / WOKINGHAM.TODAY

NEWS | 5

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SHOPSRE-OPENING

Plans in place to restore markets back to new normal EXCLUSIVE

By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokinghampaper.co.uk

PLANS are being made for Wokingham market to be expanded from Monday, June 15, as long as social distancing measures can be retained.

The market has continued to trade throughout the pandemic, with food and pet food stalls coming on a regular basis. And Wokingham Town Council has worked hard to ensure that it has operated as safely as possible.

Over the past few weeks, its officers have been working on a recovery plan so that when the non-essential stalls start to return from next week, it will be safe for both the public and retailers.

This work has included talked with traders, and following guidelines issued by the National Association of British Market Authorities (NABMA).

Wo k i n g h a m .To d ay understands that this means there will be fewer stalls in Market Place in the short-term and that a fair rota will be in

Wokingham Market in September 2018 Picture: Phil Creighton

place to ensure the regular traders are treated equally.

An added complication is the shops around Market Place which will start to reopen from Monday, June 15. They will also need to adhere to social distancing guidelines and, as a result, will probably need to incorporate a queueing system outside stores to limit the number of customers in store.

Throughout it all,

Wokingham Town Council is working to reopen the market in a safe way for traders, customers and other users of the town.

Cllr Imogen Shepherd-Dubey, leader of Wokingham Town Council, said: “The market in Wokingham has been in continuous operation since 1219 and has no doubt seen many problems in its 800 years of operation.

Spot checks for stores � Continued from front page

Categories of retail that will be allowed to open are stores selling clothes, shoes, toys, furniture, books, and electronics, plus tailors, auction houses, photography studios, and indoor markets.

The caveat is that if there is an increase in coronavirus cases, it may be necessary to restate lockdown measures.

The Government said that it expects Wokingham Borough Council to carry out spot checks and follow up on concerns from the public if stores are not following the social distancing guidelines.

Measures that shops should consider include placing a poster in their windows to demonstrate awareness of the guidance and commitment to safety measures, storing returned items for 72 hours before putting them back out on the shop floor, placing protective coverings on large items touched by the public such as beds or sofas, and frequent cleaning of objects and surfaces that are touched regularly, including self-checkouts, trolleys, coffee machines and betting terminals.

Reading West MP and Business Secretary Alok Sharma said: “The high street sits at the heart of every community in the country.

“Enabling these businesses to open will be a critical step on the road to rebuilding our economy, and will support millions of jobs across the UK. “The guidance we have set out provides a vital framework to get shops open in a way that is safe for everyone.

“It explains how retail workers who are not currently working can go back to work as safely as possible and feel confident in their workplace.

“And it reassures customers that shops are properly assessing the risks and putting in place measures to protect them.”

Andrew Goodacre, CEO, British Independent Retailers Association, said: “This guidance will ensure that independent retailers provide safe environments for employees and customers.”

And the news has been welcomed by Wokingham Business Association’s Colin George, who said that every effort would be made to tempt shoppers back to the town centre.

“We’re absolutely delighted to have the opportunity to open the town up,” he told Wokingham.Today.

“We are working very closely with Wokingham Town Council and Love Wokingham, so we can get things moving.

“There’s a lot of enthusiasm.”

And he pledged that the WBA would be working to help the town’s retailers during the reopening.

“We’ll be fighting hard to get every business opportunity and advantage we can to make the town vibrant again, as well as ensuring all social distancing regimes are followed.

“We will try and help traders as much as possible, and be campaigning with the council to put things in place to make the town a more desirable place to spend time in.

“We’ll see what restrictions we can get relaxed on parking, etc so we can get the town moving again.

“We are aware that some businesses are struggling and might not survive, we would like to avoid a ghost town that we’ve seen elsewhere in the country.

“We’re going to double down the efforts, fire up the Quattro.

“We have to have a can-do mentality, it all has to be positive.”

He added that he hoped that the UK did not have a second wave of the virus, as has been seen in other parts of the world.

There were steps to avoid that, he added: “The public must observe social distancing measures, wash hands frequently and wear masks.”

“This has to include historic plagues such as the Black Death and the town being ransacked and burned several times during the Civil War. “This year, there was no requirement to close the market, as long as the public could maintain social distancing.

“Our traders who sell food and grocery items have therefore been allowed to continue in the same way as supermarkets.

“This has provided an alternative food source during lockdown and has ensured that the supermarkets do not have a monopoly on all of our food supplies.

“All this latest announcement means is that we will be able to allow other kinds of non-food or grocery traders to return.

“However, this will depend on us being able to keep people social distancing and it will limit the number of stalls we can have.

“As indicated, there is a concern about how we manage the market place social distancing if other shops in the vicinity open and people have to queue outside.”

Sir John Redwood visited COOK when it opened last year

MP welcomes move ONE OF the happiest shoppers will be Wokingham MP Sir John Redwood, who is looking forward to buying gifts from the town centre’s many shops.

The veteran Conservative has been arguing for a number of weeks that the lockdown restrictions needed to be eased to allow the economy to get going again. He says that the decision to reopen stores safely will save livelihoods as well as lives.

He told Wokingham.Today: “I have been keen to re-open shops and get more people back to work.

“The longer the lockdown lasts the more severe the economic damage.

“We need to save livelihoods as well as lives.

“This has to be done safely to avoid close contact that could spread the virus.

“Conscious that many of my constituents have lost income and are worried about their jobs, I welcome the news that shops will be able to re-open next month. I know how hard many shopkeepers have worked to build up their businesses, only to see a total loss of footfall during the shutdown.”

And Sir John, who can often be seen visiting stores in the borough to stock up on groceries, said: “I would like to be able to visit the shops in Wokingham Town Centre again, where they have many attractive offers of items for the home and as presents for friends and family.”

6 | NEWS

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Work begins on cycleway from town to Coppid Beech

By JESS WARREN jwarren@wokinghampaper.co.uk A NEW cycleway is now in the process of being built for people travelling to and from Wokingham.

It is to link the Coppid Beech roundabout and the town centre, in the hopes of reducing congestion and providing a safe, sustainable route of travel.

Work began on Monday and will be completed in 11 phases, starting from Rances Lane, working towards Coppid Beech roundabout and then back up towards St Crispin’s School.

It will take place on the road into Wokingham first, before switching over to the road out of town.

And in some places, the road will be altered to create a wider footpath and cycleway for safe use by pedestrians and cyclists.

Cllr Pauline Jorgensen, executive member for highways and transport at Wokingham Borough Council, said: “Providing cycling infrastructure in key locations is one way to encourage residents to get out of their cars and choose more sustainable transport options like bikes.

“More and more of our residents are enjoying cycling, so we want to be able to

provide the infrastructure for them to do this easily, as families.

“By having cycleways like this one along the A329, providing a seamless route into Wokingham town centre, means our residents will be able to ride easily between their homes, shops and other key locations.”

For most of the project, the central islands and hatched areas along London Road will be removed so traffic can flow both ways easily.

By doing this, the council said they have removed the need for lane closures or temporary traffic lights, as far as possible.

It is hoped the new cycleway can be constructed while creating as little congestion as possible.

But some work will begin under

temporary lights until Monday, June 22 when the islands are removed.

Once it is completed, the new route links Newbury, Reading, Wokingham, Bracknell and Ascot – forming a new National Cycle Route (NCN422).

It will fulfil the council’s commitment to provide a portion of the new national cycle route between Reading and Windsor Great Park. And the whole project received significant funding support from the Thames Valley Local Enterprise Partnership.

Cllr Jorgensen added: “We’d like to thank our residents for their patience while we carry out this construction work. We are doing our best to keep disruption to a minimum alongside our contractor. I can’t wait to see residents making the most of the new part of the A329 cycleway later this year.”

Works will conform to Government and construction industry guidance on social distancing due to Covid-19.

Residents who live in the area have received letters in advance of the work to let them know what’s happening.

The works will also include resurfacing of the road, at the end of the programme, which will involve some overnight closures of the road – this is expected to be in late summer or early autumn.

WOKINGHAM.TODAY / THEWOKINGHAMPAPER Thursday, May 28, 2020

‘Don’t forget pedestrians’ warns Cllr A LABOUR councillor has warned that the construction phase for the new cycleway will cause problems for pedestrians.

Cllr Rachel Burgess, who represents Norreys Ward where the works are taking place, says that the removal of traffic islands along London Road will make life harder for residents with pushchairs or mobility issues.

And she worries that the council will be as slow to react to problems as they have been over the Market Place regeneration.

“Everybody welcomes the provision of extra space for cycles but I am concerned that during the construction phase, cars will be prioritised over local residents,” she said.

“The loss of four pedestrian islands and two traffic islands, which act as pedestrian refuges, will make crossing the road much harder if there are no mitigating measures, especially for residents with mobility issues or pushing a buggy.

“Norreys residents have also seen how slow and unresponsive the Council was in addressing accessibility issues during the town centre regeneration.

We cannot let the same mistake be repeated. Apologies in advance are not enough.

“In addition, cyclists need their own space – they should not be competing with walkers for the same space and making walkers feel threatened.”

And Cllr Burgess said that she was

“disappointed” that the borough council had not reallocated road space to cyclists as part of its response to coronavirus.

“The guidance is clear that in areas with high levels of public transport use, the Council needs to act ‘as swiftly as possible’ according to the government,” she explained “This means that Woodley and Earley, which border Reading and benefit from the excellent bus services provided by Reading Buses, should have measures in place to encourage walking and cycling.

“Reading Borough Council has acted swiftly, and has already introduced emergency pop-up cycle lanes as a direct response to the government guidance. This shows what can be done if the political will is there.

“Everyone has commented how much more pleasant and safe the roads are at the moment. Lots of people have discovered they can work from home.

We need to do everything in our power to keep cars off the road – this is a real measure of how serious the council is about tackling the Climate Emergency.

“I love cycling. As well as commuting when I can, and travelling around Wokingham by bike, I cycle with my children and we do the Wokingham Bikeathon every year.

“Cycling needs to become part of everyone’s daily life, but for this to happen, the Council must prioritise safe cycling for all.”

Thursday, May 28, 2020 THEWOKINGHAMPAPER / WOKINGHAM.TODAY

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Bridge of love A COLLECTION of handmade words of encouragement have been placed over a railway bridge in Woodley aimed at helping people who are going through a difficult time in their lives.

The laminated signs offer inspiration and help for anyone who may be considering suicide.

They include slogans such as, “Try not to think about the future, just focus on getting through today” and “Don’t let your dark thoughts win”.

There are also signs pointing people in the direction of helplines, including the Samaritans, domestic abuse shelters and Childline.

Each has been placed on the metal railings on the bridge at Warren Road, and the initiative has been praised by people on social media.

One said: “Someone has spent a lot of time and effort making lots of these messages of hope for those who are struggling with life at the moment. Well done whoever you are.”

Another said: “So thoughtful”, and a third said: “These should be on all bridges”. � Anyone who needs help can call the Samaritans for free on 116 123, or email jo@samaritans.org

No penalties for parents who don’t send their children back to school EXCLUSIVE

By JESS WARREN jwarren@wokinghampaper.co.uk PARENTS WILL not be penalised if they choose to not send their children back to school next month, said the leader of the borough council.

Cllr John Halsall told Wokingham.Today that the approach to primary school children returning in June would be flexible to each school.

He said: “They don’t have to open by Monday, June 1, they can open from then.

“We have a huge number

of schools full of super teachers and boards of governors who are capable of making their decisions and we will support them in that.

“Whatever they decide to do, parents can decide if they want their children there.

“We will not be penalising any parents for not sending their child to school.

“And it’s too early to tell who may open and how they may open.”

Cllr Halsall explained he expects extended periods of homeschooling to affect education levels

in children come September.

“We trust that this is in headteachers’ and governors’ minds,” he said.

“Over the past months, there has been a huge programme of home learning and support. It is inevitable that the mishmash of arrangements will be different from in class. And there will be differences come September.

“But it’s not for me to make a judgment on how that will be done.”

At the moment, there is no clear suggestion of how secondary schools will open later this year.

Plans for new artisan market for Crowthorne A NEW market could be launched in Crowthorne, after hundreds of residents declared their support for the idea, writes Jess Warren.

Earlier this month, Crowthorne Parish Council proposed the idea of a fruit, vegetable and artisan bakery outdoor market.

If approved, the market would run on Fridays and Sundays from Morgan Centre car park on Lower Broadmoor Road.

In a social media post, a spokesperson said: “The Parish Council is looking into the feasibility of reinstating the market at the Morgan Centre car park on Fridays and Sundays, with stalls selling fresh veg — mostly British grown — fruit and an artisan bakery with breads, bakes and pies.

“The produce is not pre-packaged and customers are able to bring their own bags or use paper bags supplied by the stall holder if preferred.

“The market would enable people to walk to the village to buy produce if they live nearby, or to park in the

car park which will be on site if they live further away.

“Outdoor markets are a great way to shop with social distancing at the forefront of everyone’s mind at the minute.

“It is also hoped that a regular market will start to attract more footfall to the High Street for other produce not available from the market, as shops are gradually allowed to reopen over the coming weeks and months.”

And almost 450 local residents declared their support for the venture.

Now, the Parish clerk is working on a proposal for the borough council. If this is approved, they can then submit an application for a licence.

“Until we have a universally applied vaccine, we will have these concerns to deal with on a constant basis,” said Cllr Halsall.

“There may not be a vaccine ever, in which case we will adopt different processes.

“Cambridge has abandoned traditional methods of learning for a year, and in a large number of schools, a permanent regime of social distancing may be required.

“The hope is that there will be a vaccine.

“But if autumn comes and we are still questioning arrangements, we may have

to make them semipermanent or permanent.

“There are a huge number of fundamental questions if this situation is permanent.

“I think we will overcome it, we are very lucky. People are sensible, adaptable and self-sufficient. And they have an ability to use creativity for problemsolving.

“Think about Zoom, we’re doing things that would have been unthinkable three months ago — inconceivable.

“We will come out of this better and more resilient.”

NEWS | 7

New look for carbon absorbing lamppost A CARBON absorbing lamppost has been restored after too many weeks in the sun.

The living lamppost in Twyford was struggling to survive the heat over Easter but has now been given a new lease of life.

It was installed at the crossroads junction in early December and was funded by The David Brownlow Charitable Foundation.

Alexander Barfield, chief executive of the foundation, said: “The living lamppost is living again. Thanks to those who brought it to our attention.

“Apologies it was looking worse for wear however, the current crisis put strain on the maintenance company.

“It’s now been replanted for the summer and looks great.

The pillar follows on from the living wall concept and has a solarpowered irrigation system, which recirculates, so there is no water wastage.

Bird, bee and insect The living lamppost in boxes are also Twyford has been installed. freshened up for the And the foundation summer Picture: Alexander Barfield hopes to install more carbon-absorbing fixtures on various lampposts in the future.

Mr Barfield added: “We are still planning to do four more in Twyford, but naturally we would currently have to ensure social distancing during installation, so we are waiting for an appropriate time to do it safely.”

8 | NEWS

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NEED HELP? Call 0300 330 1189 (entering 0118 978 7258 if prompted) 9am-5pm Mon-Sat Michael Ruddick from Reds10, at the Wokingham community hub in St Crispin’s Leisure Centre Picture: Stewart Turkington

Donation helps council’s support IT WAS a Reds letter day for the borough’s community hub last week, after a contractor made a generous donation to its work.

The Wokingham Borough Community Response (WBCR) has been running since the pandemic lockdown in late March, ensuring that vulnerable residents are able to receive the help they need.

The scheme is a partnership between local charities, the councils, town and parish councils and individuals.

Food and other essential donations have been received from local residents and businesses, as well as monetary donations.

And last week, Reds10 – a contractor currently involved in a

number of projects in the borough, including a Special Education Needs extension at Addington School and a new Dinton Activity Centre – donated £1,250 to the WBCR. “We really wanted to give something back to the local community during this extremely challenging time,” said Michael Ruddick, commercial director at Reds10.

“We were glad to be able to help with our donation.

“It is inspiring to see how the local community volunteers and WBC leisure team are pulling together to help those most in need in the borough during this difficult time.”

The donation was welcomed by the council.

Cllr Charles Margetts, executive member for health, wellbeing and adult services, said, “The WBCR has been a great comfort and support to so many of our residents throughout this current crisis and the great work that is being done has been helped tremendously by the kind donations we have received.

“However large or small, your donations ensure we can continue to look after the residents who need our support and we are truly grateful to everyone at Red10 and all our local businesses and residents who have donated money, food and other essentials.”

Community support to EXCLUSIVE

By ANGELA GARWOOD news@wokinghampaper.co.uk CHARITIES and organisations across the borough are striving to support the community during the coronavirus crisis.

Those working with Wokingham Borough Council on the One Front Door initiative include the Wokingham Borough Community Hub, First Days Children’s Charity, Citizens Advice Wokingham, Link Visiting Scheme, Wokingham Foodbank, the Wokingham Volunteer Centre and Involve Community Services.

Over the last nine weeks, Citizens Advice have helped more than 1914 households through One Front Door, which signposts people in the appropriate direction to get the help they need.

Of those households, over 568 are classed as extremely vulnerable.

The organisation, which has 85 volunteers working from home, offers guidance and support on a range of issues from benefit and employment enquiries to food and prescription requests.

Jake Morrison, the charity’s chief executive, is encouraging

people to contact Citizens Advice if they are in need and emphasises that their core service is still available, as well as One Front Door.

The charity is continuing to work with the council to map out their plans to support people when lockdown is lifted.

Mr Morrison said: “We’re very grateful for the continued support to deliver our service.

“The council has agreed One Front Door will be available till at least the end of July.”

Citizens Advice have also created a supermarket list — available on the website — detailing opening times, when the dedicated slots are for specific groups of people, limits on purchases, and more key information.

And Wokingham borough council have compiled a list of meal delivery services, also available on the Citizens Advice website.

Anyone who needs support should contact Citizens Advice on 0300 330 1189 (entering 0118 978 7258 if prompted) Monday to Saturday 9am to 5pm. Or visit citizensadvicewokingham.org.u k/coronavirus/ and complete the online form.

Volunteer Centre The Wokingham Volunteer Centre is helping vulnerable people get their prescriptions from pharmacies.

With approximately 55 volunteers across the borough, the organisation is working hard to ensure clients receive their medication as quickly as possible.

Staff report the centre is receiving around 15 requests a day and have delivered more than 700 prescriptions since they started.

Volunteers are currently doing between one and three drives a week and are able to respond to demand efficiently.

In addition to delivering prescriptions, the volunteer centre is discussing plans to reintroduce other ways of supporting shielded individuals.

Helena Badger, volunteer development coordinator at The Wokingham Volunteer Centre said: “Our gardening service is starting back next week, we have safeguards in place and everything will be with social distancing.

“We’re also in discussions about starting up our transport scheme again.”

The centre is working together with Wokingham

Award-winning Wokingham firm can turn your urban jungle into a stunning oasis – and maintain it too

Let Simply Green Landscapes create your dream garden

L

ET’S face it, we’ve all had more time to look at our gardens lately. And for many of us, what we have is not what we dream about.

So how do you go from urban jungle to an oasis that would turn the judges’ eyes if it was entered into the Chelsea Flower Show?

A call to Simply Green Landscapes will help. The company has recently won supreme winners award, best in category award and hard landscape award at the recent Association Of Professional Landscapers Awards. So, they know what they’re doing.

This Wokingham-based company offers a complete service, from designing to maintaining. You don’t need to worry about a thing – other than how to get into that outdoor hammock you’ve always wanted.

A quick call to the Wokinghambased company can set up your initial consultation.

Rob Cottrell and his team can survey your existing garden, work with a team of designers and surveyors to design a plan and when you’re happy, the Simply Green team can build and create your new garden for you.

“Garden and landscaping requirements are all unique, we

have completed many a different project, from traditional and contemporary gardens to town building areas and large-scale builds,” says Rob. “We work closely with carefully selected designers who have many years of experience at the top of their profession and who have committed their design reputation to Simply Green Landscapes’ proven ability to translate their designs and produce perfection.”

And Rob’s aim is to ensure that projects are always stress-free for the homeowner.

Simply Green Landscapes goes the extra mile by ensuring that all the materials needed are sourced and ordered before work starts, and throughout the process there is communication with you, so you have peace of mind.

The company uses ethically sourced natural stone and a

concrete crusher so it can recycle existing materials where appropriate.

“Construction is one of the most important stages in the preparation.

Good preparation is essential to achieve the best possible longlasting finish,” says Rob. “Once the preparation is complete, the project will be in full flow using the highest quality materials and skill.”

Their website is full of praise from happy customers who say things such as “We are thrilled with the difference” and “(our garden) certainly has the wow factor”.

Of course, as any gardener knows, designing a dream garden is one thing, building it is another but if you’re not staying on top of it all, it

doesn’t take long for nature to find a way and you need to give your garden some TLC. If you’re one of those people who only need to look at a plant before it withers away, Simply Green Landscapes can help: mowing, weeding, planting and tidying up gardens are all part of the service.

The price includes a dedicated garden team, use of Simply Green Landscapes’ specialist equipment, and removal of your garden waste, unless you wish to home compost it.

You don’t even need to have a fixed contract, Simply Green Landscapes can arrange for a oneoff visit if you have something special coming up.

Rob says: “There may be occasions when you want to

impress, perhaps a garden party for a wedding or special anniversary.

We can offer one-off maintenance leaving you free to focus on the other party preparations, safe in the knowledge that your garden will be looking its best.”

It’s not the only service that Simply Green Landscapes can offer.

Mulching is important for ongoing garden maintenance, generally used to improve the soil around plants, but it also gives your garden a neat, tidy appearance and can reduce the amount of time spent on tasks such as watering and weeding. Mulches help soil retain moisture in summer, prevent weeds from growing and protect the roots of plants in winter.

With the glorious spring we’ve

just enjoyed, it can be hard to think ahead to winter, but Rob wants to talk about snow: being prepared for the white stuff means your company can keep on ticking over while dreaming of a white Christmas. “By law businesses are required to provide a safe environment for their staff,” Rob explains.

“Rather than wait until the bad weather arrives, why not call us and plan ahead, so when the snow arrives – so do we, which means you will be able to relax and let us to the work for you.

“Simply Green Landscapes provides a Winter Gritting service and are available 24 hours a day; seven days per week during the winter months. The winter gritting service is flexible and therefore is personalised to your business.”

If you need some inspiration, or to get a feel for the work that Simply Green Landscapes has created, its website has an impressive portfolio page, showing some of the very best work it has been involved in, including the Supreme and Gold award-winning gardens at the Association of Professional Landscapers Awards 2020. � For more details, or to start creating your dream garden, visit www.simplygreenlandscapes.co.uk, or call on 0118 979 0715.

FOR INSPIRATION, VISIT WWW.SIMPLYGREENLANDSCAPES.CO.UK, OR CALL 0118 979 0715

Thursday, May 28, 2020 THEWOKINGHAMPAPER / WOKINGHAM.TODAY

NEWS | 9

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CORONAVIRUS: WOKINGHAM BOROUGH COMMUNITY HUBS

stay available until end of July www.justgiving.com/campaign/ WokinghamBoroughCV19 All money raised will go to fund food parcels and any funds left over once the food hub has closed will be distributed to the voluntary sector organisations involved in this combined response.

For more information and the latest updates visit: www.facebook.com/ wokinghamcommunityhub And the Wokingham Lions Club, who have raised over £3,000 for the Wokingham Community distribution hub, hold a virtual pub quiz every Thursday at 8pm, visit www.facebook.com/ WokinghamLions/ for more information.

Michael Ruddick from Reds10, at the Wokingham community hub in St Crispin’s Leisure Centre with Emma Cantrell from First Days Picture: Stewart Turkington

Borough Council and reports that most referrals come from Citizens Advice, with some from the council, The Link Visiting Scheme and others through selfreferral.

For updates on specific roles that are needed, visit: www. wokinghamvolunteercentre. org.uk

Link Visiting Scheme The charity is currently running a telephone buddy system offering social support and friendship over the phone, and is encouraging anyone who is feeling lonely to give them a call.

The organisation currently has more than 1,900 people on their records for a fortnightly call and 315 on their telephone buddy system for calls twothree times a week.

Staff at the Link have said they will still need many telephone volunteers in the coming months — DBS checks are required.

Volunteers making fortnightly welfare check calls have said how much they’re enjoying supporting shielded individuals at this time.

One volunteer said: “My calls have been very straightforward. It’s nice to know I’m able to contribute in some practical way.

“There is a comforting normality in speaking to other people about how they are and general comments about the situation.”

Another said: “I’m really enjoying the phone calls I make each week. All the people I call seem genuinely pleased to hear from me and really appreciate that someone is there for them whilst they’re isolating.”

Staff at the charity are coming up with alternative ways to help ease loneliness in the community. Various local

groups have set up virtual gatherings online and Link is encouraging anyone who is feeling lonely to sign up to one and get involved. If you are aware of an online group that welcomes newcomers, please contact the charity, details below.

The charity is in need of help with its Goody Bags, introduced to help cheer people up.

The Wellbeing Goody Bags are being put together for vulnerable older people and families who seek support during social isolation. People can support their community by putting together a bag of goodies and treats in supermarket bags for life.

Anyone can nominate someone to receive a Goody Bag by visiting the Link website.

Donations can be delivered to the Wokingham Borough Community Hub in the outside bins at St Crispins Leisure Centre Monday to Saturday, 9am to 3pm and at Lower Earley, Twyford and Woodley libraries on Monday, Wednesday and Friday between 10am and noon.

They will then be safely distributed.

The charity asks that those donating make up a full pack and label the type of household it’s most suitable for, such as a family, lone person, older couple, teen household or new baby.

Suggested donations for older people include hand wash, hand cream, puzzle books, jigsaws, magazines, handwritten notes/letters, wool, colouring books, pencils, hamper style goodies and sweet treats.

And for families: Hamper style goodies, colouring books, pencils, jazzy pens, magazines, drawing paper, sketchbooks, sweet treats including gluten free and vegan treats, puzzle books,

educational books and little games.

To refer someone for support or to apply tovolunteer visit www.linkvisiting.org or call 0118 979 8019 on weekdays from 9am until 5pm.

Community Hub The Wokingham Community Response’s distribution hub, which is run by First Days Children’s Charity, has fed more than 2,300 people, making 3,636 deliveries to 857 households over the last nine weeks.

They have 438 households on their repeat delivery books, with 165 staff and volunteers working six days a week on this service.

Based at St Crispins Leisure Centre, London Road, the hub is taking donations of both fresh and non-perishable food, toiletries and other living essentials and delivering them to people unable to leave their homes.

Staff report they are currently running low on cat and dog food, tinned meat and fish, tinned dessert (custard, jelly, rice pudding), cereal and spreads such as jam and marmalade - the hub cannot accept homemade spreads.

Any food donated must be unopened.

The hub is currently in need of the following for their Wellbeing Goody Bags: Puzzle books, puzzles, unopened hand creams and magazines. Due to high volumes, the hub cannot currently accept books or DVDs. Donations can be left in boxes outside St Crispins Leisure Centre, Monday to Saturday between 9am and 3pm and at Lower Earley, Twyford and Woodley libraries on Monday, Wednesday and Friday between 10am and noon..

To contribute financially to the response visit the Justgiving page:

Earley Hub CHURCHES in Earley and Lower Earley are working together to help those most affected by the Coronavirus.

With support from Earley Town Council, the Earley Help Hub links volunteers with vulnerable people in the area.

The hub currently has over 30 volunteers, who are mainly from across the churches, and help with practical and social support, such as collecting shopping and prescriptions or a friendly chat over the phone.

If the service cannot help with a particular matter, they are able to signpost people to the most appropriate agency who can.

Churches involved in the project include Trinity, Brookside, Lower Earley Baptist, St. Nicolas, Bright Hope, Our Lady of Peace and

Earley St. Peters.

The Revd Keith Wilson, minister at Lower Earley Baptist Church, said: “We had a resident call the help hub, he was quite an elderly man who wanted help with his garden.

“A couple of volunteers spent three hours giving it a general tidy up, mowing the lawn and making it more presentable.

“Afterwards he said he not only felt better about his garden but he also felt better about himself.

“He said he felt he was able to invite friends over for tea in the garden once lockdown was over. So the impact has been positive.”

To volunteer or access the service, contact 07493 784 091, email earleyhelphub@gmail.com or visit www.facebook.com/ earleyhelphub/

Halsall: work will continue THE work of the Wokingham Borough Community Hubs will go on for some time to come.

The leader of the borough council, Cllr John Halsall, said that the volunteer-led initiative will carry on as long as demand for its services exists.

The scheme has been running since the end of March and has seen local charities work together with the council to provide a support network for vulnerable residents.

This has included emergency food parcels, befriending phone calls and collection of prescriptions.

And Cllr Halsall is looking to the day when it is no

longer needed as the coronavirus pandemic has passed.

He said: “We’ve done our best to support our residents, and it’s a credit to our staff and volunteers.

“They will probably be needed for many months, and we will continue for as long as we are needed.

“We are trying to encourage people to become selfsufficient. The food they are receiving isn’t their choice, it’s what we choose for them. People should be able to get out and run their lives.

“But for the shielded group, we will look after them until the responsible medical authorities say they can go freely outside into society.”

10 | BUSINESS

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‘Cautious optimism’ from estate agents over recovery

By TAZ USHER tusher@wokinghampaper.co.uk

A SURVEY conducted by a leading Thames Valley law firm has shown that estate agents in the region, which have begun to reopen their offices following the Government’s updated guidance, believe that the housing market will recover strongly by early 2021.

Blandy & Blandy, which has offices in Reading and Henley-on-Thames, surveyed 26 estate agents covering the Thames Valley and found that 42% of estate agents expected that property prices in the next six months will rise or remain unaffected, while 58% are predicting a fall.

But the longer-term picture was more positive: Overall, 71% of estate agents felt that prices would either hold firm or increase in the next 12 months.

Estate agents felt strongly that market activity would remain affected in the short-term, with 78% anticipating a fall in the number of property moves taking place and just 22% forecasting an improved or unchanged position.

However, 79% predicted that the number of transactions taking place would increase or return to normal levels within the next 12 months.

Following the Government’s latest guidance which also confirmed that building sites could reopen, with measures in place, 88% of estate agents expected that the number of new-build homes coming onto the market in the next 12 months will rise or remain unaffected.

Manisha Bhula, head of Blandy & Blandy’s residential property team, said: “The Centre for Economics and Business Research recently predicted that nationally property prices could fall by 13% in 2020, as uncertainty and economic factors have an effect on both supply and demand, but other leading research has suggested a far lesser impact.

Manisha Bhula, head of Blandy & Blandy’s residential property team, thinks that the Thames Valley will see a quicker recovery from the coronavirus pandemic than other parts of the UK Picture: Gabrielle McMillan

“This month, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) temporarily suspended its UK house price index due to inactivity and therefore a reduction in market data.”

There are however reasons for “cautious optimism” explained Ms Bhula: “The Thames Valley region remains a fast-growing economic area with a typically buoyant job market. These factors, coupled with fantastic infrastructure and amenities, means

that we would expect to see a quicker and stronger recovery here than perhaps in certain other areas of UK. “We are fortunate to enjoy excellent relationships with leading estate agents in the area and we look forward to working close with them to ensure that our mutual clients’ moves happen as smoothly as possible in the months ahead.” � For further information, log on to www.blandy.co.uk

Digital partnership helps homeless A CHARITY that helps homeless people has gone digital thanks to a new partnership.

Launchpad, which aims to prevent homelessness in Reading and surrounding areas, launched a new website last month, with a bit of help from tech specialist AND Digital.

Its aim is to share information about its services in a more effective and contemporary manner.

This is its first website refresh since 2011, and is part of AND Digital’s goal of helping local charities thrive digitally.

It is Launchpad’s commitment to improving the lives of the homeless community that led to the tech group’s decision to help.

Club executive for the Reading branch of AND Digital, Shan Beerstecher, said: “It’s been extremely rewarding to work with Launchpad and give back to our local community in some way – and while it didn’t start out with responding to Covid-19 in mind, it’s been vital for the charity to have a fully-functioning, easy-to-use website at this time.

“We’ve worked closely with the whole team there to make the site more intuitive and user-friendly, and to ensure that uploading content is simple and straightforward to do.

“This will save the team invaluable time and allow them to focus on other critical tasks within the organisation.”

And Launchpad, which is based in Reading’s town centre, said that the new website has proved vital in communicating the organisation’s response to Covid-19 quickly and clearly.

One big advantage of the new site is that it has enabled Launchpad to announce an emergency fundraising appeal online to

Shan Beerstecher from AND Digital

encourage local people to donate, providing direct support and assistance to the homeless or those at risk of homelessness during the pandemic.

Ian Caren, Launchpad’s CEO, said: “The Covid-19 outbreak has had, and will continue to have, a huge impact on housing and homelessness, and we are expecting an increase in need in the coming weeks and months.

“Having a new website has been crucial in helping us clearly communicate any changes and updates to our operations, and has also enabled us to launch an emergency appeal so we can raise funds to support our work during the pandemic.

“This would not have been as easy to do with our old website.

“We are hugely grateful to the AND Digital team for the immense value they have added. Their help, hard work and support has meant a lot to us here at Launchpad.”

Currently, donations to Launchpad can be made through its JustGiving page. AND Digital also plan to work with Launchpad on adding a function to the website which will enable the charity to collect donations directly. � For more information about the appeal or to donate, log on to www.launchpadreading.org.uk/ campaign

Breakfast celebration

Borough’s research contribution to UK

TO MARK a milestone, a local business networking group will look to the future.

Wokingham Positive Difference is a group of business owners, leaders and charities from across the borough and holds regular breakfast-time meetings.

During the pandemic, these are virtual sessions.

For its new meeting, from 8.45am tomorrow (Friday, May 29), its theme is Creating A Better Future.

Delegates can log on via Zoom for the session, which will be hosted by Graeme Hobbs of local accountants Hobbs Granger Roitt.

Speakers include Wokingham Paper MD David Riley on Positive PR, author and speaker Clinton Wingrove on developing super teams through a process of respect

By TAZ USHER tusher@wokinghampaper.co.uk

and leadership guru, and Jonathan Holley, who will offer tips on how to develop businesses to not only survive but actually thrive in tough times.

As Wokingham Positive Difference brings together government, community and business every month, attendees will gain updates on support from government from Berkshire LEP, From the community sector, Dorothy Dix of the charity Creating Better Futures will relate short stories surrounding how it helps feed, educate and safeguard children in Africa on a daily basis.

If you are a local business and would like to receive an invite to this special event, send an email to wokinghampositivedifference@ gmail.com

WOKINGHAM and neighbouring Reading have been named two of the main contributors to research and development in the UK. The ranking, based on research conducted by tax relief experts Catax, revealed that Reading contributes the highest amount of money to research and development out of all UK towns and cities at an average of £2,400 per person.

Wokingham was also placed on top with an expenditure of £1,667 per person, while Slough followed closely at £1,207.

Calculated in accordance with the ONS Estimates of population for the UK, the figures take the population of each region into account, meaning that while Manchester boasts the highest total

output of £760million, its large populations means it spent 88.6% less than Reading per capita.

Mark Tighe, CEO of Cataz, said: “Reading is the UK’s leading light when it comes to innovation and investing in the R&D workforce.

“Thousands of companies will face financial difficulty in the coming months as the coronavirus crisis bites.

“It’s a tragedy that many of these companies will ultimately go bust without realising they could have claimed significant sums under the R&D tax relief scheme.

Mr Tighe added: “There needs to be more education among small businesses over what counts as R&D and how they can claim. A piece of software, a new innovative menu item in a restaurant or a simplified manufacturing process can all qualify.”

Any business that spends time and

money developing new products, business processes or services can claim research and development tax incentives.

Past successful claims include a firm that developed a better way of smoking salmon and an architectural practice that worked out how to help social housing providers reduce fuel poverty by creating energy-efficient buildings at lower cost.

The Government introduced its research and development tax relief scheme in 2000 to encourage investment in innovation.

Firms can choose to receive R&D tax relief as either tax credits, which help to reduce a limited company’s corporation tax bill, or a cash reimbursement from HMRC. � For more information about research and development tax relief log on to catax.com/ research-development

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Crafty! National Lottery grant helps charity create pandemic goodie bags

By JOHN WAKEFIELD news@wokinghampaper.co.uk A CHARITY that has been creating craft packs for youngsters to entertain them during the lockdown has been given a grant from the National Lottery.

Hurst-based The Cowshed has sent out more than 500 of the kits in recent weeks as part of its support efforts to the community.

In normal circumstances, it helps provide high-quality clothing and other basic essentials across Wokingham borough, but like many charities, it says it has seen a sharp increase in demand in recent weeks.

Donated clothes are sorted, washed and ironed to be delivered or collected by social services, other health professionals or the people the project supports.

Other items it collects include footwear, bedding, toiletries and nappies.

The Cowshed has been working alongside more than 130 other organisations and charities across the county – including Berkshire Women’s Aid, Brighter Future and HomeStart.

In the past four weeks, the

project has helped more than 100 people.

But it is the craft packs that has attracted a £3,000 grant from The National Lottery Community Fund, which is the largest funder of community activity in the UK. The packs include games, books, craft materials and colouring pens, supplied in bags made from recycled material by a group of volunteer “craftladies”, who are working incredibly hard from home to make sure there are enough to meet the increased demand.

Sally Russell, CEO of The Cowshed, said: “We are so grateful to The National Lottery Community Fund, without their grant we would not have been able to continue supplying our craft packs which go to the most vulnerable families in Berkshire – many of whom have no outdoor spaces and would struggle to afford to provide items such as these to their children during this crisis.”

The Cowshed is one of two community groups in Wokingham, and one of seven in Berkshire, to receive a share of over £40,000 for the county last month from The National Lottery Community Fund.

Helen Bushell, head of funding for the South and East of England at The National Lottery Community Fund, said: “It has been heartening to see how communities in the South East have been responding to the crisis. The Cowshed in Wokingham is just one of the many projects, from grassroots groups to larger charities, working tirelessly to support their community through these extremely difficult times.

“National Lottery players can be proud that the money they’ve raised is making a real difference at a time when it is most needed.

“We will carry on getting vital funding out to charities and voluntary sector organisations, so they can step up to overcome obstacles caused by the pandemic and help their community to rebuild and recover in the future.”

And Ms Bushell said that the fund will continue to prioritise getting funding to groups best placed to support their communities at this vital time and also towards those seeking to rebuild as the crisis abates.

Last year it awarded, on average, £1.4 million a day. � For more details, visit www.TNLCommunityFund.org.uk

NEWS | 11

Collection point for The Cowshed THE COWSHED is appealing for additional donations.

It says it has seen a surge in referrals in recent weeks, including for children.

It had asked for donations of good quality cleaned and ironed clothes including spring and summer boyswear for ages 2-3 and 3-4, and girlswear for ages 3-4.

It also provides new bed linen, but it can’t accept donations of used goods in this category for hygiene reasons.

The charity is based in Hurst, but during the coronavirus pandemic it is only accepting donations from a drop-off point set up at Kings Place, next to the Hope and Anchor pub in Wokingham’s Station Road.

This is open from 10am to 4pm on a daily basis.

Its referral service is still open.

For more, call: 0118 934 5120 or visit thecowshed.org

Lotto support

Some of the finished craft kits ready to go to good homes

The other Wokingham charity supported by the National Lottery Community Fund this month is Keep Mobile, which provides transport for the elderly and disabled.

12 | NEWS

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY / THEWOKINGHAMPAPER Thursday, May 28, 2020

Appeal for donations to help Ugandan children EXCLUSIVE

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokinghampaper.co.uk

A CHARITY that works in Uganda has made an appeal for donations after Covid-19 has begun to spread throughout the community.

Despite having a much smaller number of cases than most countries, the potential impact of the spread of coronavirus is likely to be significant because of the lack of testing facilities.

Borough resident Jean Ajin, who set up the Mityana Charity, said: “At the moment the number of cases in Uganda is at around 200, fortunately it doesn’t seem to have spread, it’s been able to be contained so far.

“A lot of it has come through countries with truck drivers through East Africa.

The main impact is that they’ve stopped motorbikes who give lifts like taxis, the minibuses have stopped as well and all shops are closed unless you are selling food.”

There are other issues caused by the pandemic.

Ms Ajin said: “The prices have hiked up and a lot of people don’t have enough money to buy food. So all of our kids have been suffering so we sent out an appeal and got £8,000 to provide food for kids for two weeks but we’re not sure what is happening after that.”

Ms Ajin recently returned from her most recent trip to Uganda, which she visits every other year.

The Mityana Charity recently celebrated its 25th

One the Ugandan children helped by the Mityana Charity

anniversary having helped sponsor children in Uganda since 1995.

“On my most recent trip I came back on March 17, so just before the borders were shut,” she continued.

“We had a big celebration for 25 years (of our work there) and to hear from the sponsored kids, they stood up and shared how much impact the work has had on their

lives and how their world has changed, it brought tears to my eyes.

“Just by encouraging others to help it can have a huge impact on many people’s lives.

“To actually see how it has developed since the first visit 25 years ago is just unbelievable.”

She recalled: “I went over in 1995 and I got six children

Town council meetings go online VIRTUAL council meetings are now the norm for Earley Town Council.

Last week, it held its first full online meeting using the Zoom conference software.

Attendees included all councillors, the town clerk and her deputy.

And it was adjudged to be a successful way to do council business.

As a result, it will now start to hold all meetings this while while the coronarvius pandemic continues.

The programme includes the Policy & Resources Committee and Amenities and Leisure Committee will all now start up again.

The schedule of meetings will be updated on the Town Council’s website and agendas will also be available on the website.

And members of the public will be able to log on and

attend the meetings remotely.

Leader of Earley Town Council, Cllr Clive Jones, said: “I am very pleased that this is another small step towards normality following the outbreak of this awful virus.

“I am looking forward to the day when meetings can once again be resumed in person in the Council Chamber.

“When this day comes, we will be well on the road to beating the virus.

“We are very pleased that the Council's staff have been able to continue to work during these difficult times, although with a reduced staff.”

Any member of the public wishing to ask a question at a meeting or just wanting to observe the proceedings can email Earley Town Council at administration@earleytc.gov.uk to receive the meeting ID and password, plus details of how to join.

sponsored and when I came back, I started to take people over when I went to visit so people got involved.

“We've had more than 300 children sponsored consistently over the last six years. There is one child for one sponsor. People take on a child and a primary child costs £15 a month.

“Last year we opened up our own admin and resource centre and raised enough money to do that.

“We employ six people ourselves and our executive director in Uganda has got in other charities, two American charities and a German group who are interested in helping with legal aid and human rights.

“We’re not big enough to do huge projects, so with our water we do gutters and water tanks.

“We’ve built two new health clinics and we’re going to do an extension for a maternity ward.

“We’re providing equipment for them because the mortality rate for people giving birth is really high. If they can't get to the hospital or clinic and they have complications, then they die.”

And she has received support from a Crowthorne school: “We’ve got Wellington College’s Orange House who are helping with children's right and prisoners, legal aid for prisoners.

“We’ve also had a coffee farm developed so we have lots of different projects on the go.” � To find out more about the Mityana Charity or to donate, visit: www.mityanacharity.org/

Support for prison families THE Thames Valley Partnership have reiterated its support for people with family and friends in the prison system.

The charity — which runs a Family Matters — aims to help people through difficulty with emotional and practical support.

Currently, prisons are closed to visitors, but the charity has gained new funding to help people maintain telephone contact with their family members.

The funding was made available through the Thames Valley Police Property Act fund, and hopes to help families suffering some financial hardship during this time.

For more information, or to talk to someone in confidence, call: 01844 487985 or email: FamilyMatters@thamesvalley partnership.org.uk

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Thursday, May 28, 2020 THEWOKINGHAMPAPER / WOKINGHAM.TODAY

Widened roundabout is ‘not fit for purpose’

NEWS | 13

Now online: Memorial for Covid-19 victims

EXCLUSIVE

By JESS WARREN jwarren@wokinghampaper.co.uk A WIDENED roundabout is not fit for purpose according to a Shinfield councillor.

And road schemes designed to alleviate congestion in the village have not helped, he added.

Cllr Jim Frewin, Independent councillor for Shinfield South, has blasted Wokingham Borough Council’s road schemes, warning that there have been some near misses at the roundabout that connects School Green with the A327 Arborfield Road.

But the council has defended the numerous schemes within the village, which include a new relief road that links to the University of Reading’s Science Park with the Black Boy Roundabout.

It is understood that the council is also hoping to improve bus services within Shinfield Parish.

Cllr Frewin argued that road use within the village has been reaching saturation point.

“It’s also about past investment,” he said. “The Eastern Relief Road, which goes from the Black Boy Roundabout to Arborfield Road provides access to the University of Reading science park, but it’s widened the village boundary ready to be filled with houses.

“It's not done much to alleviate the traffic issues.

“And there are three pinch points on the Black Boy Roundabout. There’s the road towards Crosfields School and Reading which cannot be

Work on the roundabout at School Green was underway in February, when this picture was taken.

It has since been completed Picture: Phil Creighton

widened. There’s the Lower Earley Way which is already at capacity, and there’s the road going down to Junction 11 which can’t be widened either.

“That roundabout is not fit for purpose.

“I’ve had the highway department out to look at it and they’ve stood there and watched a number of near misses when it comes to collisions.

“But they just kept saying ‘it works by design’.”

Wokingham Borough Council issued a statement, stating that the numerous housing developments, which have seen nearly 4,000 homes approved or in the planning process for the parish, is being phased to ensure appropriate transport links can be built.

“The current Local Plan (Core Strategy) was adopted in 2010 and anticipated 2,500 new homes in this strategic development location,” read the statement.

“That plan allowed us to strategically plan the growth to 2026 to mitigate the impact by collecting £30,000-£40,000 from each new home and converting this into infrastructure provision; prior to that we were securing around £5,000 per home.”

The money enables road schemes including the Eastern Relief Road, the Arborfield Cross Relief Road, improvements to local junctions, greenway enhancements, a new sports hub, two primary schools, a My Journey travel plan and a comprehensive public transport strategy which a council spokesperson said would include a sustainable bus link connecting Shinfield and Spencers Wood, at a rate of three buses per hour.

“Background traffic growth and congestion has continued because of the travel choices we all make, a fact which has become very clear on the roads during Covid-19,” they said, adding: “Every planning

application submitted is required to demonstrate that it can mitigate all of its impacts, including transport.”

And the council asks all developers to demonstrate what they can do to mitigate impact on the environment, including transport.

They promised: “The Local Plan Update will identify the required mitigation measures needed to progress development. As you point out congestion is however something which pre-existed our plans; the planning system is not however able to address pre-existing conditions such as this but as I have said we do plan the infrastructure to benefit all residents.”

And in a bid to improve public transport, the council is in discussions with Reading Buses to provide additional bus stops on Hyde End Road, while the Leopard 8 route is “fully funded by developer funding”.

Greenfingered Daniel’s plants for Kenya A SCHOOL student looking forward to a trip of a lifetime has used the lockdown to get Woosehill blooming.

Daniel Robson, who attends the Emmbrook School, is hoping to take part in a scheme that will see him volunteer in Kenya next summer. But to get there, he has to raise £5,000.

And to help, last Friday the 15-year-old set up a socially distanced plant stall outside his home, giving friends and neighbours the chance to freshen up their garden.

It’s just one of many initiatives he has undertaken in recent months to reach his target, including babysitting, cleaning and also going vegan.

The plant stall, he said, was inspired by his Grandpa.

“We were initially hoping

Daniel Robson with his plant stall last Friday Picture: Andy Preston

to have a stall at a fair in the half-term, but we had to rethink our approach due to the pandemic,” he said.

“I am pleased to say that I have had a mind-blowing turnout with the stall and I’m hoping to be back soon with a fresh wave.

“I’ve met so many lovely people, at a safe distance, and have connected with the Woosehill and Wokingham community.

Coronavirus notwithstanding, Daniel, who is in Year 11, will be travelling to Kenya next year with a group from The Emmbrook School and Camps International where they will spend four weeks volunteering.

Work will include building on an 18-year-old pre-existing project at camp Kenya, installing clean water supplies, building animal

defences, and constructing a school.

“Not only is this trip going to have a crucial impact on those in need, but the entire experience of fundraising and travelling will also give a new perspective of the world we live in.

“I can’t tell you how much all the support I’ve received from strangers, family, friends and everyone means.

“It has taught me the importance and power of socialising, I’m proud to put that focus into helping others and learn about the world we live in and its cultures.” � To find out more about Daniel’s fundraising effort or to donate, visit: www. justgiving.com/crowdfunding/ daniel-robson-kenya

A NATIONAL memorial has launched for people – of all faiths, beliefs or none – who have died as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Remember Me is an online book of remembrance, where family, friends and carers of those who have died can leave a message in their honour.

The service is free, and people can include their name, photograph and a short message.

The project was created by St Paul’s Cathedral and has been backed by the Prince of Wales.

To launch the project, choristers of St Paul’s Cathedral recorded a special piece of music to serve as an anthem for the book of remembrance.

It is intended that the Remember Me site will become a physical memorial at the Cathedral. Subject to funding, the memorial will be placed in a new inner porch in the North transept.

The Dean of St Paul’s Cathedral, the Very Revd David Ison, said: “For centuries, St Paul's Cathedral has been a place to remember the personal and national impact of great tragedies, from the losses of war to the devastation of the Grenfell Tower fire.

“We have heard so many sad

stories of those affected by the pandemic, and all our thoughts and prayers are with them. Every person is valued and worthy of remembrance.

“We are all experiencing the devastating impacts of Covid-19 across the country and beyond.

“Remember Me is an opportunity to mourn every person we have lost to the effects of this terrible disease, an encouragement to offer compassion and support to those left behind, and an ongoing recognition of the impact of the pandemic on the UK.” And the Prince of Wales recorded a video message in support of the project.

He said: “This virtual book of remembrance is here to help us remember; not just to recall our loss and sorrow, but also to be thankful for everything good that those we have loved brought into our lives, and all that they have given to others.”

To honour a loved one in the Remember Me project, visit: www.rememberme2020.uk All those included in the memorial must have been living in the UK. Remember Me will be open for entries for as long as needed.

Grant funding opens for groups supporting domestic abuse work MORE THAN £800,000 has been made available to groups supporting victims of domestic and sexual violence.

Last week, the Ministry of Justice announced that £814,000 has been allocated to the Thames Valley area.

The money is available to charities, charitable incorporated organisations, companies limited by guarantee, community interest and social enterprise organisations who have been impacted by the coronavirus pandemic and who support victims of this type of abuse.

Anthony Stansfeld, Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) for the Thames Valley, said: “We’re delighted to be able to help charitable organisations with further funding in response to this pandemic. We know that the lockdown will mean that there could be increases in cases of domestic abuse and sexual violence which, of course, is extremely concerning.

“We hope that being able to offer more than £800,000 will give support to victims of these

heinous crimes through these organisations.”

The funding is to cover additional costs that have incurred or will incur whilst adapting their services during the pandemic.

It relates to costs from Tuesday, March 24 until Saturday, October 31.

And the deadline to apply is Wednesday, June 3 at noon.

For example, funding may be used to: � address short term income disruption � meet essential costs of sustaining current activities � purchasing of equipment to support the move to remote and digital working � additional staff to cover those unable to work for reasons related to the pandemic � address increased demand.

The PCC is now inviting applications for funding. For more information, including criteria and frequently asked questions, visit: www.thamesvalley-pcc.gov.uk/getinvolved/covid-19-fund-fordomestic-abuse-and-sexualviolence-services/

14 | VIEWPOINTS

THEWOKINGHAMPAPER NEWS WITH A HEART FOR THE BOROUGH

A cautious welcome to the reopening IT WAS always going to come.

Wokingham borough has been affected by the coronvirus pandemic since the end of February,. At the time, lockdown couldn’t come soon enough.

If there’s one certainty about entering a tunnel, no matter how long it is, at some point you come out of it.

And over the course of June, we will start to emerge from that lockdown tunnel.

From next week, some pupils will be returning to school – we still have reservations as to whether it’s too soon – and markets can start to get back to normal.

In the middle of the month, shops will once again be able to serve us, albeit with social distancing rules in place.

And in July our pubs will be able to start pulling pints again – hopefully our summer won’t be a washout.

These are all good signs and we’re looking forward to life starting to get back to some kind of normality.

But there is a big question mark over the second wave. Are we rushing to get back to normal? Is three months of lockdown enough?

Why are we reopening without the test and trace regime recommended by the World Health Organisation?

And is there enough hand sanitiser to go round?

There are many problems that reopening will bring, but we give a cautious welcome to our re-emergence from our chrysalis.

As we step out and blink at the sunlight, as we point to happier times ahead, we look forward to life returning to a new normal.

CHURCH NOTES

A gift of a blessing

W

HAT difference would if make if you gave a gift to someone, just to bless them because you want to help?

Opportunities to do good to others seems limited in this unprecedented social distancing lockdown due to the coronavirus, but we see signs of creativity in giving to others all around.

Nationally, Captain Tom has captured our hearts and has inspired more than £30 million pounds of financial support to the NHS and has now gone on to top the charts with a Number One recording, all as he marched into his centennial birthday.

It’s been wonderful to see.

Likewise, many others are taking time to find ways to give to others through shopping for them and helping them use previously new technologies like social media apps and websites and video conferencing tools.

I recently received a wonderful email from a recruiter who had pulled together a full list of all kinds of free training resources to help sharpen up skills to help you standout in what will be a very competitive job market once we get past this pandemic.

That was so unexpected and such a blessing to me and I am sure to others that I’d like to share it with you here: www.talentsearch.careers/free-online-trainingcourses.

I am reminded of Jesus’ words in Luke 6:38, “If you give to others, you will be given a full amount in return. It will be packed down, shaken together, and spilling over into your lap. The way you treat others is the way you will be treated.” Wow, what a promise.

What kind of difference can it make for others if we seek to give to others? Captain Tom has shown us it works today, now it is up to us to take the next step.

Wes Wisham from Kings Church, writing on behalf of Churches Together Wokingham

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY / THEWOKINGHAMPAPER Thursday, May 28, 2020

Your letters Send your thoughts to letters@wokinghampaper.co.uk

We love to hear from you! Send us your views on issues relating to the borough (in 250 words or less) to The Wokingham Paper, Crown House, 231 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS or email: letters@wokinghampaper.co.uk We reserve the right to edit letters Views expressed in this section are not necessarily those of the paper

Cummings statement makes me so angry I would like to say how angry I am at our Prime Minister’s statement regarding Mr Cummings.

The message to us the public is that there is one rule that you must follow but powerful political figures can do what they like.

It is because of the massive effort and sacrifices made and endured by the majority of the British people that we are slowly overcoming the virus.

I feel we are being mocked by the Government.

Boris Johnson has shown he is weak and lacking in judgment.

I think a lot of people won’t forget this.

Anne Booth, Earley

Where’s the integrity?

Do Tories mean different things when they use words like ‘integrity’?

Adulterer and compulsive liar Boris Johnson describes Dominic Cummings as acting with integrity when he treated lockdown rules with the same contempt as he treated our sovereign Parliament.

This is the same Dominic Cummings whose Brexit campaign was based on a lie about giving an extra £350 million a week to the NHS if we left the European Union.

Clearly now Johnson and Cummings are in charge, they are treating the entire country with contempt.

We know that Tories stick together, with loyalty first to themselves, then to the party, with the country some way down the list.

Rather than joining in the sycophantic praise for Cummings, perhaps John Redwood could do something to support the country during this crisis.

He could acknowledge and address the damage done to our NHS by immigrant doctors and nurses leaving, after Brexit showed what certain groups really think of them.

Or perhaps he could see his way to reducing the double whammy of economic damage that will be done to the country by Covid-19 followed by Brexit? He won’t, of course, but it would be nice if just for once, we really were "All in this together".

Dr Peter Hornsby, via email

They have got to go I refer to the recent comments by Councillor Frewin (Wokingham Paper May 7) and Councillor Cowan (Wokingham Paper May 14).

The council has sold Shinfield and Arborfield down the river with the explosion of new houses.

It will be a total demolition of the south of the borough unless planning consultants and a barrister are brought in by the residents to fight each planning application.

It is possible to save some resemblance of the area with a strong committee using the professionals and the full support of the residents.

One just cannot leave it to Councillors Frewin, Cowan and Kerr to try and save the area from complete annihilation.

The Council’s borough plan pushing so much development to the south of the Borough should now be scrapped.

The blame game is beginning to unfold To misquote – “the first victim of pandemic is the truth”. Just months from the outbreak of coronavirus, the fingerpointing, ‘not me gov’ blame game is beginning to unfold.

From supplies of personal protection equipment (PPE), delays in testing in hospitals, care homes and for other essential frontline workers, conflicting statistics (with which you can prove anything you want to prove), stable door decision taking, broken promises and advice which appears to change with almost daily regularity, are all now issues being placed in the spotlight.

No one denies that much of what has been achieved has been other than remarkable or that the difficulties faced

have been anything less than, to use the political disclaimer, unprecedented.

Nevertheless, they are along with other matters requiring cold light of day scrutiny and accountability.

This is immoral and undemocratic and at the same time keeping their master plan of 15,000 houses in the balance to destroy Grazeley.

We have inexperienced officers and councillors who will not fight and challenge the Treasury over the ridiculous quota figures as they do not want to upset their colleagues in Westminster.

In all the planning applications there is a desperate shortage of affordable housing. Why? As usual there is no increase in the infrastructure In the developments.

What hope is there for any resident when MP John Redwood won’t answer letters from Sarah Kerr over the lack of need for developers to get planning permission for some developments.

It is the same with Council Leader Halsall who does not reply to letters or even keep his promise to visit Radcot Close with an engineer to inspect the tripable surfaces due to bad workmanship by council contractors.

On a national level one just has to look at the Prime Minister’s behaviour in support of Donald Cummings.

Both have been responsible for the shambles of this pandemic with their failure to answer questions. Neither has displayed a scintilla of contrition for Cummings breach of trust.

The Prime Minister has lost all credibility.

Cummings has to go.

It is very clear that the Councillors are not for the residents but for Party instructions. That is why Resident Association Councillors with no party allegiance is the answer for local government.

Cedric Lander, Woodley

The economic cost of Covid-19 will prove enormous. Its cost in human terms heart-braking.

Is it possible that after so much pain and suffering the words of Georg Wilhelm

General Election soon?

Readers would be quite justified in commenting ‘here he goes again – always nagging’!

To put it crudely, I care – about the state of this country, its decline, lawlessness and the quality of politicians etc – noting that I have no hidden agenda or political ambitions in life.

Indeed, none of the major parties would have me.

I seriously believe that if an election was held now, the Labour Party would win. Very simply, the performance of the Tories has been a disaster, for example needing the Daily Mail charity to achieve a large-scale procurement of PPE because the civil service did not know how to.

We have a disappointing Home Secretary, who having failed to meet her claim to control our borders, has now, in contradiction of the PM’s agreement with France, introduced the most stupid border controls which to those with any sense, would use a “testing” option.

She does not fit in the international arena.

Our Chancellor for whom I have considerable respect, is so ignorant of the clever ways his furloughing funding is being consumed by fraud.

I once again express concern about who in our society is going to have to pay the bill.

I have tried to trigger an investigation into one of the most blatant frauds I believe is in place, but these days the likes of the Treasury and HMRC are not interested – just try to get in touch.

My last paragraph sums up a terrifying development in this country – the isolation of all authority from the public – as practised in Russia and China, e.g. the public must be denied a voice.

In theory we get around that by

Friedrich Hegel that “the only thing we learn from history is that we learn nothing from history” will be proved wrong?

John Blaney Wokingham

voting into power MP’s to represent us, but even many of them who do try to represent us, fail.

Summing up, if Boris is to stay as Prime Minister he needs to get a new and competent team around him, continue medical inputs from both sides of any health-related arguments, but get used to the idea that he is supposed to be a manager and make decisions.

An immediate job he has to undertake, concerns the International Trade Secretary Liz Truss (is she employed by the USA or the UK?) Do not ruin our farmers, our industry, commerce – you name it – in a Trade Deal with the USA. You obviously have no experience of dealing with them, whereas I have, and worked in the US for a short while.

Reg Cliﬞon, Wokingham

Cat’s life I was disappointed, on behalf of Mr Clifton, to read that his cat insurance premium had increased to £50 per week. He must own a very valuable cat.

Michael Storey, Wokingham

What’s in a plan?

At last week’s Planning Committee Wokingham Borough, Conservativerun Council approved a plan for a 70-bed hotel in Sindlesham.

I had no problem with a hotel but I was worried by the traffic impact it might have on local residents.

Air pollution emitted by vehicles, especially when stationary in a queue cause smog, carbon monoxide, and other toxins which residents and their children directly breathe the polluted air into their lungs so a plan that increases air pollution is not a very healthy plan.

The Council Officers recognised that there will be increased traffic, particularly in the morning peak traffic time. Anyone who uses the Mole Road, King Street Lane up to the Winnersh Crossroads (including the so-called new relief road) will know the delays and congestion that already exists and this will make them worse.

The Council’s Highways Officers solution was to do nothing so no Air Quality Monitoring. No concerns either for Green Policies or the Councils flagship Climate Emergency Policy.

Who will suffer with the additional pollution and all its nasty implications along with extra congestion this will create? Why the residents of Winnersh/ Sindlesham, not forgetting their children along with the motorist just trying to get to work and earn a living.

What confidence will this give residents that their health and wellbeing is in safe hands?

Moving swiftly on to another planning application for an eight-bed property to accommodate supported living for seven vulnerable adults all 18+ and additional accommodation for a Council staff member.

Again a very worthwhile project.

The problem was the lack of car parking spaces in an eight-bed property as only one was offered in an off-site location on London Road.

Worse still, the parking space was where the London Road narrows on a bend just short of the one-way system by the Ship Inn. When challenged what the parking standard would be if a private resident made an application for an eight-bed

house the vague answer was probably about six car parking spaces on site.

Is it one rule for the Wokingham Conservative-run council (a bit like their Westminster pal Dominic Cummings) and another for the rest of us?

Again what confidence does this give residents that the system is fair and equitable I wonder?

When Wokingham’s Conservative mates in Westminster say jump Wokingham’s Conservatives say how high and how many houses do you want us to build.

It's very sad that the concreting over large tracts of Wokingham’s Greenfields in the South of the Borough so as to protect their nice green patch in the North will be the result of their folly but do they care? I doubt it.

As a result of their folly trees get cut down destroying the nests of our bird population, leaving us and our children’s children to live in a much more polluted environment with all the nasty implications that will bring.

Is this how Wokingham Borough Council Conservatives see the future of the borough?

Cllr Gary Cowan, Independent Borough Councillor for Arborfield, Wokingham Borough Council

Enjoy the Great Indoors Volunteers are always important.

But in challenging times, when our communities need them most, they are invaluable.

I’m so proud of the Scout volunteers in Wokingham. Together, they are helping hundreds of young people to gain

skills for life – helping them speak up, play their part and find their place in the world.

To keep everyone safe, Scouts aren't able to meet face-to-face. But this hasn't stopped our volunteers from supporting young people. So many of our brilliant leaders are still running meetings online, helping Scouts catch up with their friends and continue to earn their awards.

At a time when our children's education is so badly disrupted, these sessions are providing a sense of normality and continuity that's so important for their well being.

We have also been supporting families across Wokingham with free resources at scouts.org.uk/the-greatindoors #TheGreatIndoors.

So I’d like to say a huge thank you to all our volunteers, whether you drive the minibus, make the drinks, look after the accounts or help deliver vital skills for life we couldn’t do it without you.

It’s your kindness and resilience in these tough times really is so inspiring –and it really is making a difference.

Tim Kidd, UK Chief Commissioner, The Scouts

We need your help As a result of the growing Coronavirus death toll, national healthcare charity Sue Ryder is seeing an increase in need for its bereavement support, which we are struggling to keep up with.

In addition to the tragic increase in deaths, the grief that those around us are experiencing now is unlike anything we have ever witnessed before.

As a result of the lockdown restrictions, loved ones of those dying

from all causes not just Coronavirus have been unable to be at their loved one’s bedside when they died. They have been prevented from holding their hand or saying goodbye. Many people have not been able to attend funerals or find solace and comfort, physically, in the arms of their support networks.

Normally, our usual routines of school, work or activities can provide us with a sense of safety, like an anchor to life before our loss.

This consistency can help with the process of grieving, but the lockdown and social distancing measures have meant that feelings of grief are being intensified and compounded.

Sue Ryder now has a waiting list for our free video bereavement counselling.

This means there are grieving people in need of our support right now, who we are currently unable to reach.

Coronavirus is impacting so many of us all, as well as our friends and neighbours. We are asking your readers to please give what they can afford, however small.

We need their help to help those struggling with grief at this very difficult time.

Every little bit will help us to recruit more trained counsellors for our free bereavement counselling service.

If any of your readers are struggling with the loss of a loved one and would like to find out more about our support services they can visit www.sueryder.org/support.

Thanking you in advance for your support.

Heidi Travis, Chief Executive at Sue Ryder

TONYJOHNSON Back to school?

T

HIS was a week when one man single-handedly just about wrecked the government’s credibility.

It was a week in which our Borough Council discussed giving itself permission to do something it might not permit to others to do.

And it was a week in which ‘back to school’ ran into the sand – but not for quite the reason you’d have expected.

Back him or sack him?

A news story about a Government SpAd (special adviser) broke in the latter part of the week, where the SpAd had travelled from London to Durham to live in a second home at the height of the lockdown.

It’s newsworthy because the SpAd’s name is Dominic Cummings and his boss is Boris Johnson, and he runs the country.

Government ministers were cluelessly trying to answer the nation’s questions. Even after he changed the schedule on Sunday and personally went on air to support his man, the Prime Minister’s problem of a SpAd dominating the news just wouldn’t go away.

So the SpAd himself faced the media for 90 minutes, during which it became clear that the newspapers had got the main points of the story correct, but that the media at large had got some details wrong.

At the end of March, every minister including the Prime Minister had been telling us every day that we should stay

at home then isolate ourselves and our families if any of us had symptoms.

The SpAd’s version of events made it obvious that ministers hadn’t explained ‘the small print’.

Namely that we could (and should) use our own judgment. Especially if the health and wellbeing of a young child was involved.

What the SpAd went on to say sounded like he was still seriously unwell when he undertook the side-trip to Barnard Castle, sat with his family by the river, then on the way back stopped for a brief walk in the woods. ‘Not a problem’ some might say, yet the police were arresting and fining other citizens for this sort of behaviour at the time.

So it’d be easy to fall into the trap of thinking that there’s one rule for the public and a different rule for the rich and privileged elite who ‘run the country’.

But the SpAd also said that we shouldn’t believe what we see on television or read in newspapers either.

In my opinion, he’s right and we shouldn’t.

We shouldn’t believe what government ministers tell us.

We shouldn’t believe ‘the rules’ of the lockdown nor ‘the numbers’.

We shouldn’t believe that the government is ‘being led by the science’.

So as a result of one person’s arrogance and conviction that they’ve done nothing wrong, the worm of doubt has entered the nation’s head and people won’t be as trusting of what this

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government, led by this PM, says they should and shouldn’t do.

One SpAd, one PM. The PM lost.

What’s the plan?

As if the week wasn’t exciting enough, good old Wokingham Borough Council’s Planning Committee discussed building a massive extension at the back of a rundown property on the way into town on London Road, to turn it to an eightbedroom HMO (house of multiple occupation).

Parking not up to borough standards?

No problem.

Over-development? Not here it isn’t.

Flood Risk assessment? Not needed (apparently).

Community Involvement? One neighbour only You get the idea … with deflector shields set to maximum and dilithium crystals fully charged, the Planning Committee Councillor’s questions and concerns just bounced off.

As for WBC’s own application?

It passed of course – nothing to see here, move along.

Not going back to order Everyone’s been told to go back to ‘Big School’ on June 2, with all 650 boys and girls expected to be in attendance.

Here in the Borough, in a press release about schools going back, our cheerleader-in-chief has said that WBC “recognises the Government announcement … working to support

schools … we wholly support the benefits of children re-engaging with learning”.

But the big boys and girls have cut up rough and a growing number of the 650 MPs have realised that cramming everyone into the house of commons might not be so good for their health.

One wonders if they’ll be ‘using their own judgment’ about the small print in Jacob Rees Mogg’s orders?

Even so, in one respect Mogg is right.

Parliament needs to lead by example.

When they go back to ‘big school’, it might be safe for our children to go back to primary school.

And if ‘they’ lead by example, so ‘we’ will surely follow.

Possibly.

As long as the SpAds explain the rules.

All of them.

So you might want to read all of WBC’s advice in their press release, very very carefully. Then use your own judgment to decide whether you’re doing the right thing for young children – yours or other people’s.

What the Neighbours said The neighbours’ cat has been stalking the parrot, managing to give the bedraggled bird a right old mauling despite the protection of its locked, barred and gilded cage.

Apparently, the patchy psittacoid has tried retaliating but seems distracted and lacking in energy.

Excepting ‘co powiedzieli sasiedzi’, that was the tenth week of the lockdown, that was. caveat.lector@icloud.com

WESTMINSTER DIARY Sir John Redwood

Big business and government

T

HE government should not want to bail out big business or take share stakes in large companies. It should be helping and encouraging them to get more money from customers so they do not need bail outs.

The policy is meant to be getting many more people back to work, preferably working from home. Taxpayers do not want shares in companies that are losing so much money they cannot finance themselves commercially from banks and the markets.

It is rumoured that Jaguar Land Rover might need government money.

Yet this is a company with good products, that needs to sell more cars to generate the cash it needs. The government should be asking any car business that thinks it might want taxpayer aid the following questions: � Will its dealerships soon be open to sell cars observing social distancing assuming that gets the go ahead? � Meanwhile is the sales force available during normal business hours to sell on line and through email and Zoom/Teams meetings with customers? � Have they tried contacting their customer and customer enquiry lists to see if people will buy a new vehicle? Are they offering any special promotions to get the market moving again? � Given the reported growing interest in people buying cheaper second hand cars as an alternative to public transport to get to work, isn’t this a good time to encourage switching to a newer vehicle for people who are already owners?

The Bank of England and the commercial banks are making plenty of money available to those who need a car loan to buy or upgrade a vehicle.

The Treasury were right to offer short term generous assistance for the lock down period.

Now we need to move on and find ways to get people back to work safely and wean companies off government life support.

The price of solidarity For years Germany and the Netherlands have resisted any idea that the EU should borrow money together and spend it in the poorer areas of its territory.

They wanted a currency union but not a benefits union, a monetary union but not a transfer union.

The dollar area or the sterling area are currency unions backed by self governing states. In each there are large transfers of money from the richer parts of the area to the poorer parts. These take the form of grants to local government from central taxation, grants to individuals through the benefits system based on need, and common taxation raising m ore from the places where incomes are higher. As a city or county that suffers relatively low incomes cannot devalue against the richer places, it needs to the grants to get its living standards closer to the national average.

Last week Germany and France came to an Agreement. They propose a Euro 500bn fund for the EU, to spend on recovery from the pandemic.

The money will be borrowed by the EU as a whole, where each state stands behind the loans in proportion to the size of its economy.

If the EU decides to spend proportionately more in the distressed areas of its territory, then it would have some mild element of redistribution about it.

Time will tell whether this is the first step on the full road to a transfer union, or whether this is a one off gesture soon to be watered down by delays in getting the money and by an approach that all states should have prizes in the lottery draw for the funds.

I have always thought those in the EU who argue they need a transfer union to complete their monetary union are right. The problem is the true price of solidarity and more equal standards will be very high for German and Dutch taxpayers.

Is this a saleable proposition to them?

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Do you really need that much toothpaste?

Enjoy the pub, at home

YOU might have noticed that some items have been hard to get hold of in the supermarkets.

Everything from toilet roll to soap has been the subject of panic buying and even now, supplies of items like flour and lemons have been hard to come by.

But researchers from NetVoucherCodes.co.uk reckon we could make our buys go further.

For example, just one tablespoon of washingup liquid swirled around in water should be enough to clean at least one full sink of dishes, and a pea-sized dab of toothpaste is plenty enough to clean your teeth thoroughly.

And for those who use roll-on deodorant, two-three swipes under each armpit is sufficient, whereas a two-three second spray of the aerosol varieties is plenty.

A spokesperson for NetVoucherCodes.co.uk said: “Under government guidelines, households should only be venturing out for work, exercise purposes, and to get essential items from the supermarkets.

“Chances are many people are using far more shampoo, hand soap, or olive oil than is actually needed, so by checking you’re using the right amount of certain products and not overdoing it, you’ll make the items you buy last longer.”

Here’s nine items they reckon you’re using too much of. But if you’re using too little deodorant well, social distancing is helpful.

A BREWERY owner’s new Facebook video reminds people to remember their local pubs when lockdown is lifted.

It follows Dean Bond as he travels through his house — where every room is an imagined Wokingham establishment — as he tries a beer and gives it his professional rating before moving across the town, or his home, to review another.

He created the tongue-in-cheek video to highlight the importance of supporting small businesses — as the owner of Bond Brews, this is a matter close to his heart.

He runs the company by himself, creating unique real ales by hand and selling them locally.

He filmed the sketch on his phone over the course of three days with some help from his son.

He said: “I tried to involve my family as we’re all stuck at home, but when it came to editing and uploading, it was difficult as we hadn’t done anything like it before”.

In the video, Mr Bond opens all the doors in his house, and every room is a pub complete with a different beer, background chatter

Roll-on deodorant Two or three swipes for each armpit is enough to cover the full area without overdoing it.

Deodorant spray It’s easy to apply too much, but a two-three second spray under each armpit should be enough. Remember to wait until the deodorant has dried before getting dressed.

Shampoo For most people, the equivalent of two full teaspoons of shampoo should be enough, but the amount of hair you have, and its texture might mean you have to use a bit more. Shampoo should be worked into a rich lather on damp hair and provide coverage all over.

Toothpaste A lot of people tend to cover the entire toothbrush surface, largely because this is the way toothpaste is advertised on TV. In actual fact, a peasized dab is enough to clean your teeth efficiently.

Washing-up liquid One tablespoon of soap swirled around in water should be enough to clean one, if not two full sinks of dishes.

Hand soap One squirt of hand soap should be enough to create a bubbly lather for both of your hands.

Olive oil The amount of oil you should use to pan-fry food depends on a number of factors such as the type of food, the quantity, and how well you want to cook it, as well as the type of oil and the size of the pan you’re cooking with.

The general rule of thumb is to use just enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan by swirling it around. If needed, you can add more, but it’s not as easy to take it away.

Moisturiser For both face moisturisers and night creams, aim for the volume and length of one almond.

Shower gel If you’re using a loofah, sponge or washcloth, you really only need a 10p-sized dollop of body wash for your entire body.

and makeshift bar area made from a cricket stump.

He had to be inventive — using the loft and garden to include as many establishments as possible — but unfortunately ran out of rooms, missing out one Wokingham pub.

He drinks 16 ales and rates them out of four.

“Scales of one to five make it to easy to rank everything a three — this way makes you really think about the quality of the beer,” he said.

“I had accumulated the drinks on holidays over the years — I always make sure to tour the local breweries and swap ales with them.

“I thought this was the perfect time to enjoy a few from my collection.”

His shop is currently open on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays between 10am and 5pm, offering a free ale delivery and collection service.

For more information, visit: www.bondbrews.co.uk, and to watch the video, visit the company’s Facebook page: www.facebook.com/bondbrews

Call on the Edge: How Paul and Philippa stitched up

By TAZ USHER tusher@wokinghampaper.co.uk

A WOOSEHILL company has donated its products to hospital staff in an effort to keep people in intensive care connected with loved ones.

Edge Beanbags – run by husband and wife Paul and Philippa Stephens – gave 30 of their techbed mini beanbags to Royal Surrey Hospital after receiving confirmation for the safety of their materials.

The bespoke products, made from medical vinyl, allow smartphones to be positioned freely without the need for physical contact with the devices.

Paul explains: “When lockdown hit we identified a new use for our products and thought it would be silly to do nothing about it.

“We obtained the correct materials for the job from some of our larger projects up north.”

The vinyl is the same material used in the Nightingale hospitals and can be easily sterilised in between uses.

Paul adds: “The beanbags have been donated to nurses who have used them to conduct Zoom calls between Covid-19 wards.

“We’ve also been informed of

their use by one Covid-19 patient who was able to Facetime loved ones using a phone placed on the beanbag.”

The generous duo, who manage all stages of production and distribution from their Wokingham garage, also expressed their contentment with their product’s new use.

“We’re chuffed that something designed and built by us is being put to use in this way,” says Paul.

“We are keen to help more hospitals and are happy to send the products to any that are interested.”

For more information about Edge Beanbags and to view the full product collection including beanbag furniture and pet beds log on to: edgebeanbags.co.uk

WOKINGHAM.TODAY / THEWOKINGHAMPAPER Thursday, May 28, 2020

Susan has her ha one but two eigh

Susan Player’s pets a learning tricks, going

By JESS WARREN jwarren@wokinghampaper.co.uk

HAVING an eight-stone toddler run around the house can be chaotic, as Susan Player knows.

Eight stones? A toddler?

Well, these are no ordinary youngsters, they’re her two pet pigs, Hippo and Tulip.

The two animals may only be 10-months-old, but they’ve grown considerably since they arrived in their new home.

“We got them when they were only seven-weeks-old,” said Susan. “They were tiny, and you could hold them in just one hand. But now Tulip weighs eight stone.”

Tulip – who was originally hoped to be a girl – kept his name anyway to fulfil Sarah’s dreams.

“Since I was a little girl, I have always wanted a pink pig called Tulip. But pigs are very social animals and can get bored easily, so we decided to get two,” she explains.

“They were a present for my 50th birthday.”

Spoilt with treats and toys, the pair have been enjoying the sunny weather, but not too much.

“They’ve got a paddling pool each, and love playing with toys. But we have to keep them inside from noon until 3pm when the sun is at its hottest.

“Pigs don’t have any natural sun protection, so we have to apply factor 50 suncream before they go in the pool.

“The reason pigs roll in mud is actually to protect their skin.

“And they don’t sweat either, so they

Band create the ultimate social THE old saying that the show must go on has never been more appropriate, even in the pandemic lockdown.

Kyros are an 80s-inspired indie/ rock/pop prog and were just about to announce their latest album when Boris Johnson told everyone to stay at home.

So, no promotional tours, no sales in shops and no gigs for the foreseeable future.

And to cap it off, one of the band is based in the US, so no flying in to help the others out.

But out of adversity comes opportunity.

The album launch is still on the cards for Friday, June 19, and they have been busy creating videos for three singles that will be released from it.

Chris Hillman, from Wokinghambased promoters White Star Records, explains: “We’ve had excellent reactions since our signing of Kyros was announced.

“Just as we were about to announce details of the new Kyros album release lockdown happened which caused gig cancellations for all of our bands and with gigs being a major part of promotion and with the difficulties of getting CDs and vinyl manufactured and shops

being closed we had to rethink.”

Despite having a guitarist based in Los Angeles, the band managed to film a live performance.

“They did it so well with quality music,” Chris says. “Their performance had a bit of humour too; it received amazing reactions and was picked up and written about by the prestigious Prog Magazine.”

Vocalist and keyboardist Adam Warne, who is based in London, helped create the videos for the singles Rumour, Phosphene and a third that is about to be released.

So it’s all systems go for next month’s album release, as Chris explains: “Many other labels just delayed their releases but we decided to press ahead as the music was ready to go – we were able do digital and streaming now and the physical release later when things improve enough to be able to do so. This proved to be the right decision: the Band were pleased, fans were pleased.

“While in lockdown fans were still able to hear new music.”

The band has another link to Wokingham: its manager, Dean Nelson, lives in the town.

And Chris and the team from White Star Records, whose roster includes

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ands full with not ht-stone toddlers

Angela Garwood

HONEST MOTHERHOOD A real lockdown birthday surprise

I

are unusual – Hippo and Tulip are 10-month-old pigs who enjoy g for walks and splashing about in the back garden

need hosing down with water to keep them cool.”

When they’re not paddling in the water, the duo are busy learning tricks.

“They’re nothing like dogs, they’re much smarter. They can learn a trick within 20 minutes,” a proud Susan explains.

“They sit, and lie down, and nod their heads to say they want something.

“You have to stay one step ahead of them, because they can outsmart you all the time.”

The four-legged friends are often seen in local parks too.

“We had to apply for a license to walk the pigs in the park,” said Susan.

“We take them out on their harnesses and people love them.

“We decided to drive to the parks because we don’t want to cause a road accident with drivers getting

distracted by a pig walking down the pavement.

“Even our neighbours love them. And our grandchildren were delighted with them.”

Susan has documented her experience of keeping pet pigs for all to see — and learn from too.

“We set up the Facebook page, Little Pigs at Home to help show people what it’s like, and what lovely animals they are.

“The most important thing is the setup, they need the right spaces.”

Over the last 10 months, Susan has helped other local families to learn about the animals, and then get pigs of their own.

To follow Hippo and Tulip’s adventures, visit: facebook.com and search for Little Pigs At Home.

lly distanced concert ...

Kyros may not be able to go on tour to celebrate the launch of their new album, but Wokingham-based label White Star Records has kept the band busy

bands Voices of the Fuselage, The Paradox Twin, Kepler Ten, Kim Seviour, The Room and Quantum Pig, are conscious that musicians are struggling with the lockdown. No gigs means fewer opportunities to earn.

“Many musicians we work with rely on live gigs or recording sessions for their living and have had their income disappear,” Chris said. “We have set up

a page of links offering their services of online tuition, web design, mixing etc and shared that on social media.” � To hear Kyros’ online gig, log on to www.loudersound.com/news/kyros-playisolation-gig-for-world-health-day � For the band, visit www.kyrosmusic.com/ and for more on White Star Records, visit white-starrecords.com

Times like these require the talents of Nicole A WOODLEY musician treated neighbours to a social distanced street concert last week.

Nicole Allan – from Rickman Close – performed a 30-minute vocal and guitar set just before the weekly Clap For Carers.

The garden busk was aimed at people missing live music and featured songs ranging from Survivor’s Eye of the Tiger and Foo Fighters’ Times Like These.

Nicole said: “I wanted the songs to be happy and uplifting and strike confidence and hope in people.

“Neighbours of all ages came out and sang along, some danced and some were so happy to be able to wave at their dearly missed friends.

It was a very happy and emotional evening.”

The singer-songwriter, whose passion for music began in her childhood, also streamed the concert via her Facebook page where she has been posting live recordings to since the start of lockdown.

She said: “I live streamed my set so that my followers and other

internet users could enjoy the music as well.

“I had a fantastic response including comments from people expressing how happy the video made them.

Nicole added: “Being able to bring together people both in person and online while respecting social distancing rules was an amazing feeling.”

Following the positive reaction to her street concert, Ms Allan now plans to perform every Thursday for the duration of lockdown.

The musician, whose career is one of the many affected by the pandemic, said: “Like everyone, I am looking forward to getting back to a new normality, but if anything, I hope my music has made times a little easier for people.

“Performing these songs gave me hope and made me smile, something I hope others can relate to when listening to it.”

To view Nicole Allan’s collection of live music videos, including the street concert and a charity gunge challenge, visit her Facebook page @NicoleAllan.

We all feel the pain

Supermarkets struggled To fill all their shelves It was like Christmas again But without santa’s elves

No trains running No planes in the sky No buses either We ask ourselves why

No visiting friends Or family too Just work from home This we must do

Mums become teachers As schools suddenly close To be tutored at home Is not what we chose

Our National Health Service Has struggled to cope But they all carry on To give us some hope

Children excited They thought this is fun We can do as we please And play in the sun

Many lives have been lost We all feel the pain But hopefully soon We will sing and dance once again

But teachers soon learned To send school work home Children must study The streets not to roam

Jill Thorne has been reflecting on the pandemic for this week’s verse.

We are allowed to walk But not very far No play in the park No long trips in the car

� Have you written any lockdowninspired verse? We’d love to be able to share them with our readers, email news@wokingampaper.co.uk

recently celebrated my 27th birthday. Having been in lockdown for many weeks now, I knew roughly how the day would go. Or so I thought.

The clock struck midnight and as we weren’t asleep yet, my partner dutifully wished me a Happy Birthday and asked if I wanted anything from the kitchen, which for the past two hours had been off limits.

(Certain Birthday surprise preparations were taking place).

“Oh no, we need to go to sleep...” I replied, with no intention of going to sleep but thinking of the one dessert I’ve been devouring daily for the last week.

He came upstairs with a glass of milk and a Bonne Maman creme caramel pudding with a candle plonked in. We went over to the window (so as not to set off the smoke alarm), the candle was lit and a quiet, speedy rendition of happy birthday sung. I blew out my candle and felt nearly as giddy as he looked.

There was much excitement in the air as I wondered what on earth he’d been doing downstairs.

I’d heard the expected wrapping of presents and blowing up of balloons, but remained in the dark as to what the surprise might be.

My daughter Maia, to my partner’s frustration, had mentioned something days before about the printing off of photos, so I assumed maybe they were making me some kind of album or collage.

“Don’t go downstairs before me in the morning.

I have to check everything first”.

My curiosity grew.

I slept well and woke to the sound of a crying six year old. “I feel hot Mummy..”.

Typical. One day of the year allotted to me and she steals it with a fever.

A mild one that mysteriously seemed to vanish as the iPad and some Rice Krispies appeared.

I administer Calpol anyway and spend some time hydrating the little monkey.

“Shall we go downstairs and open some of my presents?”

She did not like this suggestion. It was clear this was a celebration she wanted no part of.

Attention We have concluded, from observing her behaviour on previous birthdays, that sometimes she cannot handle the attention being on another family member, particularly her own mother.

She doesn’t quite understand these feelings so resorts to being whiny and acting up.

I let her sulk and excitedly walked down the stairs, to be met by my beaming boyfriend, and a wall of familiar faces I was not expecting.

All my nearest and dearest.

My closest friends, each holding up a sign with a word to form part of a Birthday message: “Happy Birthday Angie! Sorry that we can’t see you properly today, boo lockdown. But we hope that you have the best day. We love you.”

A lump quickly forms in my throat. “How did he?

When did he?”

The man had secretly contacted each of my favourite people (well all the ones he could get hold of) and asked if they’d take part in his surprise message.

I was blown away. I had no idea.

My best friends from school were up there.

My cousins. My parents. It was the most wonderful, special thing anyone had ever done for me. I stared at their happy smiling faces, all 32 of them, feeling so very fortunate, so very loved.

Maia perked up soon after breakfast and we opened each of my presents together, which was both lovely and necessary. The rest of the day consisted of photo-taking, flower and biscuit deliveries, lots of cake and a hilarious lengthy family Zoom call.

I couldn’t have asked for more. It was perfect.

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CROWTHORNE SMILES

Village trail spreads a little half-term happiness

Displays across Crowthorne (and Oakwood Climbing Centre) focus on the theme of happiness in a fun trail for half-term Picture: Phil Creighton

By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokinghampaper.co.uk RESIDENTS in Crowthorne have been spreading a little happiness this week, thanks to a new fun trail.

Taking place across the village, there are more than 25 stops to visit on a socially distanced walk.

Similar to the Scarecrow Trail, but on a slightly smaller scale, the event sees homes place a fun tableau in the front gardens for visitors to enjoy.

Participants have been asked to create a display based on what makes them happy, in a bid to make other people happy.

There is a special fairy trail in The Brackens and, in Ellis Road, there’s a chance to bring a decorated pebble to add to the display.

And the fronot gardens of Crowthorne Methodist Church in Dukes Ride have been given a happiness makeover.

Unlike the regular trails, coronavirus means that the event is different, so there are no printed maps or prizes.

The event runs throughout this week’s half-term.

An organiser from the Trail said: “The Crowthorne Trails team have organised a free trail to cheer Crowthorne families during the lock-down.

“The theme is happiness and we have 25 displays confirmed so far but this number is increasing.

“The addresses of the displays are on our Facebook page.” � For more details, search Facebook for Crowthorne Trails.

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Cut down

Virtual ride

IT’S A bit of a pain in the grass: the council’s cutting regime has fallen behind as a result of the coronavirus.

Last week, Wokingham Borough Council said in a statement that Covid-19 has had an impact on staff availability for the service which keeps the verges and parks looking neat and tidy.

“We know how important it is to keep our parks and open spaces accessible for exercise and wellbeing,” the statement said “We are focusing our resources to make sure that these sites are kept available for all. This may mean that grass verges are cut later than expected to make sure our available resource is where it is needed most.

“We will continue to work with our contractor Tivoli to catch up on grass cutting while prioritising these areas.”

A CHARITY that helps men overcome addictions to drugs and drink is asking supporters to get on their bikes.

Yeldall Manor usually holds a Ride for Recovery fundraiser in June, but with social distancing rules in place, it has turned this year’s event into a virtual one.

Participants can ride, walk or run a distance of their choice either at home on an exercise bike or treadmill, or as part of their daily exercise.

The event runs from Saturday, June 6, and lasts for the week.

The Hare Hatch-based charity hopes that families will take part and set distances suitable for them.

Donations go towards its bursary fund, which covers the costs of some of its clients.

For more details, search for Yeldall Manor Ride for Recovery on Facebook.

A plea for plants for care home A CARE home is hoping that greenfingered friends will help brighten up its gardens.

Alexandra Grange Care Home in Wokingham’s Molly Millars Lane said that many of its residents love gardening and being outside in the fresh air.

And to help them bloom, they are appealing for donations of spare plants and garden ornaments.

It is hoped that the gifts will transform the outdoor space, not just for the residents who

can get into the gardens but for those who enjoy the view from a window.

The care home adds that gardening helps improve heart health, reduces stress, promotes better sleep and helps improve core and hand strength.

Due to social distancing rules, donations should not be dropped off, but appointments made in advance.

To offer help, call: 0118 912 3210 or email katriona.beeton@ hallmarkcarehomes.co.uk

WOKINGHAM.TODAY / THEWOKINGHAMPAPER Thursday, May 28, 2020

Pandemic causes waiting list for online counselling service

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokinghampaper.co.uk A CHARITY that helps people by offering palliative care has launched an appeal in a bid to extend its bereavement support.

Sue Ryder has seen demand for its online bereavement support network nearly double since the coronavirus pandemic and it now has a waiting list for its video counselling service.

It says that to reduce the waiting time, it needs donations.

The charity, which runs Sue Ryder Duchess of Kent Hospice in Reading and also Day Services at Wokingham Hospital, said that with people not being able to attend funerals or find solace and comfort with their support networks, it is no wonder that demand is increasing.

Sue Ryder chief executive Heidi Travis said: “As a society, the grief those around us are experiencing right now is unlike anything we have ever witnessed before.

“We are supporting families across Berkshire who have been devastated by Coronavirus and their grief is being intensified and compounded by lockdown and social distancing restrictions.

“Our free online video

Shelia Hancock has made a video for Sue Ryder’s bereavement service

counselling service is providing a lifeline to many, but we cannot keep up with demand.”

She added: “We are asking the public to please give what they can, however small, to enable us to increase our free bereavement counselling and support the people who are waiting for our help at this incredibly difficult time.”

And the demand on services is something that counsellors are feeling.

One, who did not wish to be named, said: “Many of the past

times which may bring us some comfort when we are grieving, such as meeting friends and family or other coping strategies such as going to support groups are not available to us right now.

“Having our usual routines of school, work or activities can provide us with a sense of safety like an anchor to life before our loss. This consistency can help with our process of grieving; now this has changed for every one of us.

“For the recently bereaved, the inability to have physical

contact with people can be very difficult, if families are not living in the same households they are currently not able to hug or hold each other.

“Having to stand two metres away from a loved one who is sharing your grief can feel cruel and difficult to bear.

“This is a time when people need support from specialist services more than ever. As a society, we need to support bereaved people to get back on their feet after loss. Sue Ryder's bereavement services can significantly help with that process and support people at the most difficult time of their lives.”

And the appeal is backed by the actor Sheila Hancock, who was married to Inspector Morse actor John Thaw.

She said: “Dealing with the death of a loved one is always difficult; I know that – but never more so than it is now.

“Maybe you're grieving in isolation or you're really unhappy in the way your loved one died. You are not alone and thanks to Sue Ryder help is at hand to help you navigate your grief.” � For more details, or to make a donation, visit sueryder.org/ support

Thursday, May 28, 2020 THEWOKINGHAMPAPER / WOKINGHAM.TODAY

A feast for the senses: work begins on new garden project EXCLUSIVE

By JESS WARREN jwarren@wokinghampaper.co.uk WORK HAS begun on the second phase of the construction of a new sensory garden in Woosehill.

Championed by Wokingham In Need, the charity began the first phase of work back in December to clear overgrown weeds and brambles — led by the Friends of Finchampstead Ridges.

Now, the team have picked up their trowels again to begin landscaping work at the Acorn Community Centre. They also hope to install new fencing.

They have also received support from local businesses in their venture. Hempel Special Metals, based on Molly Millars Lane, Wokingham have donated large boxes to be used as raised planters.

And insect boxes and bird houses will be provided by networking group BNI. Further help has also been provided by Garden Logistics and Prospect Estate Agents.

Wokingham In Need founder, Sue Jackson, said: “Now that we are able to work weekends too, we can get back on site and start work on the second stage.

“We had originally planned to begin work on Saturday, May 16, but there were problems with the digger.

“Following discussions with Wokingham Borough Council it has been agreed that work can recommence when the site itself is not in use.

“And all work both by contractors and volunteers will be carried out in accordance with Covid-19 working guidelines.”

Once complete, the sensory garden will be accessible for adults with learning disabilities, their parents and carers across Wokingham.

It will also be open to children attending after school activities and

WIN founder Sue Jackson

Work takes place on a new sensory garden in Woosehill Pictures: Wokingham In Need

people visiting the on-site café — which Ms Jackson hopes to increase visitors for.

The third phase of the garden creation will include laying a weedproof membrane and installing wheelchair friendly patios and terraces.

Then, the team will plant and install sensory and decorative features.

Ms Jackson said she hopes the garden will attract more people to the centre to aid the development of the area and raise awareness of the

Masks are a WINner A WOKINGHAM town centre store is preparing to reopen and among its new ranges is a bespoke collection of face masks.

And each one sold will help the work of a local charity that aims to help the borough’s disadvantaged.

Antique Rose ordered some fabric to make the face coverings for team members ahead of its reopening.

They are in floral and pattern prints, making them stylish and comfortable.

Some of the material was leftover, so these have been made into masks for the public to buy from the Bush Walk store, with £2 from each sale going to Wokingham In Need (WIN).

They are the brainchild of Antique Rose owner Georgina Hustler, who said that as well as being lined, they are easy to wash.

“We’re just preparing to reopen

the shop – we’re still open online,” she told Wokingham.Today. “We’ve done really well online, people have been really supporting us, it’s fantastic.”

The masks came about thanks to a good friendship: “One of my friends is a milliner, and I wanted to ensure that we had masks ready for when we go back, but I wanted something that was in keeping with our brand.”

The result is the colourful creations, with the additional masks being sold to customers.

“It’s really nice to do something for the community,” Ms Hustler said.

“We work closely with WIN, we support them whenever we can, they are a local charity.

“It’s all about working together at the end of the day.” � For more details, log on to www.antiquerose.co.uk/new-inmasks.irc

NEWS | 21

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needs within the community.

To complete the project, Wokingham In Need are appealing for funding support, and help from local businesses.

Ms Jackson explained they are looking for garden centres or garden supply companies to help them with plants, a trellis and sensory equipment.

“Some local people and local companies have also responded to a call for donations of garden furniture, pots, planters and parasols,” she explained. “Also

negotiations have already taken place in relation to the upkeep of the garden over the forthcoming months and years.

“We thank all who have committed to offer support and help in raising awareness of the project especially: Wokingham Society, BNI Loddon, Hempel Metals, Garden Logistics, Prospect Estate Agents, The Wokingham Paper and BBC Radio Berkshire.” � Anyone interested in donating, can visit: www.justgiving.com/ crowdfunding/winsensory2

Sunny days are here again

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokinghampaper.co.uk IF THERE’S one thing that’s been pretty consistent about the lockdown, it’s been the weather.

With few rainy days, there has been plenty of sunshine and warmer weather.

And new research from the University of Reading shows that spring 2020 will be remembered as the sunniest on record, even surpassing some summer records.

The data, released last week, shows that there has been more than 610 hours of sunshine since the start of March – and that’s before counting this week.

This beats the 604.6 hours in 1990, which was the previous highest spring total since the University’s sunshine records began in 1956.

In terms of the percentage of possible sunshine, the sunniest month in its record is August 1976 with 62%. The sunniest month in terms of total hours of sunshine was June 1975, with 305.6 hours.

Dr Peter Inness, meteorologist at the University of Reading, said: “The last few months have been unusual for everyone in lots of ways – but at least this includes the weather being unusually sunny. We have seen some recordbreaking weather this year already, but for this spring to even rival the sunniest summers on record is quite extraordinary.

“The cause of all this sunny weather has been a proliferation of high pressure conditions to the west of Britain, with associated descending air and clear skies over the UK. Conversely, the Iberian Peninsula has been very wet this spring.

“Understanding how well we can forecast these ‘blocking’ patterns and how they might be changing is the subject of much active research, and we are lucky at Reading to be directly working on fascinating topics such as this, while also training the next generation of meteorologists and environmental physicists.

“In recent days there has been some discussion in the media of how weather conditions over the summer might influence how tolerable lockdown will be for all of us and our mental health.

“Although there are major social inequalities in access to green space in the UK, this extended and unusual period of fine weather is likely to have been a big boost to many.”

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Charity calls for safer routes on school run A NATIONAL charity is calling for councils to create safer spaces for children walking to school.

After the Government announced £250 million for an active travel fund, Living Streets is urging local authorities to use part of the money to create School Streets.

The charity wants to see cars banned from school gates at peak drop off and pick up times, to encourage more families to walk to school.

It also wants councils to invest in automatic crossings with reduced wait times and increased green man times.

Jenni Wiggle, interim chief executive of Living Streets, said: “As schools plan their return, encouraging parents to walk to school will be an important part of ensuring roads around schools aren’t overwhelmed with cars.

“It’s incredibly important we choose healthy and active ways to travel.

“Not only for our own health and wellbeing, but to protect the strain on the NHS. “It’s very important that we don’t replace one crisis with crises around inactivity, air pollution and climate change.

“We know from our work with schools across the UK that families are put off walking to school by traffic, road danger and air pollution.

“By removing cars, we remove these barriers. In these times, it’s even more important to create space around school gates so families can physically distance.

“Local authorities should use the funding available to improve the walk to school.

Living Streets is ready to help them achieve this.”

May is National Walking Month, and as part of that, the charity wants people across the country to have access to better walking infrastructure.

It is also calling for school leaders and members of the public to write to their local council via the Living Streets’ online form, urging them to invest in School Streets.

Since launching its School Streets toolkit last year, Living Streets has seen an increase of schemes across the UK. Now it wants more local authorities to follow suit. � For more information, visit: livingstreets.org.uk/schoolspace

WOKINGHAM.TODAY / THEWOKINGHAMPAPER Thursday, May 28, 2020

10 new foster carers urgently needed across the borough

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokinghampaper.co.uk

The Lee family are hoping that others will follow in their footsteps and foster children

A NEW campaign has been launched to boost the number of foster carers in the borough.

And figureheads for it are a couple who have been there, seen it and got the T-shirt.

Wokingham Borough Council says it wants people to make the life-changing decision to become foster families, with new carers urgently needed for children in the borough.

Matt and Natasha Lee are one couple who became foster carers last year. The borough has 64 in total, but urgently need another 10 to come forward.

Matt and Natasha balance fostering alongside their commitment to their three sons.

They say it has had its challenging times but describe it as a joyous experience: “Fostering is something that we had talked about for many years.

“We knew the time would have to be right to make it work for everyone, so started our fostering journey in January last year and haven’t looked back since.

“Within a few days of being approved as foster carers, we had a young boy placed with us

for a few weeks of respite care and, shortly after this, had siblings of seven and two years of age placed in our care.

“After six months with us now, it would be a lie to say that it’s all been plain sailing or easy, but we never expected it to be.

“Fostering throws up challenges the same as anything in life and at times can

be emotionally tiring, but how the whole extended family have dealt with those challenges and overcome them gives the most positive feeling imaginable.”

The experience has seen growth not only for the young people in their care, but also Matt and Natasha’s own children.

“The development we’ve

seen with the children, including our own, in all respects is the greatest achievement of all and is something we’re all proud to be part of,” they added.

“We had imagined fostering to be many things and, over a year down the line, are so glad we took that step to make a difference to someone’s life.”

The borough council wants to reach out to would-be foster carers for children including teenagers, siblings, and asylum seekers and children with disabilities who desperately need foster carers in the borough.

Cllr UllaKarin Clark, executive member for children’s services, said: “Becoming a foster carer is open to a broad range of people and what’s most important is being able to provide a safe and loving home for the young people in our care,“ “Get in touch with our team to find out about the possibilities of starting the journey to become a brilliant foster family while getting paid as well as access to a host of other benefits and training.” � To find out more, call Jackie Ross on 0118 974 6204, email fostering@wokingham. gov.uk or visit fostering.wokingham.gov.uk

New support for parents of newborns SUPPORT is available to parents who are struggling with the demands of babies and young children throughout the Covid-19 pandemic.

The campaign, composed of key messages from health and social care teams, is encouraging parents to ask for help from loved ones and experts rather than struggling alone.

Topics covered by the campaign include coping with crying babies and difficult toddlers, seeking medical help and dealing with overwhelming feelings such as stress and anxiety.

The worry is that lockdown may be causing mums and dads to struggle alone and could lead to issues such as mental health, isolation and in extreme cases, harm to babies and children.

Head of Safeguarding Children for Berkshire West Clinical Commissioning Group

(CCG) Liz Stead said: “It’s hard enough at the best of times to be at home looking after a baby or small child.

“While it can be a very rewarding time, young children can be quite demanding meaning mums and dads are often sleep-deprived and worried they’re not doing things right.

“Add to this the anxiety many people have about their health and that of their loved ones, concerns about jobs, finances, bills etc and it makes it a very stressful time.”

Since launching, the NHS campaign has been published on social media to reassure parents that they are not alone in their struggles and to inform others that they can go to the aid of a family if they are concerned and it is safe to do so.

Ms Stead added: “Our message is that the safety and wellbeing of babies and young

children is paramount and people must do all they can to step in and help.

“The guidelines on social distancing are quite clear on this – if someone is at risk of abuse, violence or neglect they must seek help. And if someone is worried they are still allowed to get involved.”

“Often there’s a network of support from family, friends and neighbours – people who can come in and give the parents a bit of rest and respite. But of course, lockdown and social distancing has put a stop to all that.

“Added to this, many of the professionals whose job it is to spot struggling families are having to work in different ways and that personal, face to face contact is often not possible. But it is this sort of interaction which is so valuable in keeping an eye on both parents and children.”

Binfield man charged over alleged offences A BINFIELD man has been accused of multiple offences following a Thames Valley Police investigation.

Emil Atanasov, 34 and of North View, was charged on Tuesday, May 19 with a count of dangerous driving, failing to stop, driving while disqualified, driving without insurance and drink driving.

He was also charged with two counts of assault on an emergency

worker, and one count of breaching a non-molestation order.

It follows a series of alleged incidents which took place at around 12.15am on Monday, May 18, when officers attended Crossfell, in Bracknell after reports of a disturbance.

Thames Valley Police said that when they arrived, a car was driven towards two officers before crashing

into a parked car and a police vehicle.

Officers then pursued the vehicle, where it is alleged to have reached speeds of up to 110mph.

There were no injuries.

Atanasov appeared at Reading Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, May 19.

He was remanded into custody, and he will appear at Reading Crown Court on Monday, June 22.

Thursday, May 28, 2020 THEWOKINGHAMPAPER / WOKINGHAM.TODAY

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INTHECOMMUNITY

News from your community groups, clubs and societies Send your reports to news@wokinghampaper.co.uk

Children show they care

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokinghampaper.co.uk

CHILDREN are being inspired to spread some joy with appreciation parcels for care homes in the Wokingham and Reading areas.

Inner Wheel Club of Reading Maiden Erlegh DURING lockdown the Inner Wheel Club of Reading Maiden Erlegh members have volunteered to support the Reading Association for the Blind by phoning some of their members who have been pleased to hear a friendly voice and have a chat during this difficult and lonely time.

Our knitters and stitchers have also been busy: Women and Girls in India: These Bunnies are rather cute.

They only take a couple of hours to knit (at a leisurely pace), then about a further hour to sew together and stuff. No two bunnies are the same, having different stripes, colours and facial expressions.

The Bunnies measure about six inches tall and are washable. There are no small detachable parts and therefore are an excellent option for small children to play with.

They are being sold for £5 each.

The proceeds will be going to the charity Women and Girls at www.womenandgirls.org.uk who are making available sanitary wear to ladies and girls in India.

Just £5 can provide safe sanitary protection (antibacterial), for two years. This is something most of us can take for granted but around 80% of ladies in India cannot.

They often do not even have clean water to wash their garments in.

These Bunnies were to be sold at various Fayres, which of course have had to be cancelled because of the pandemic.

The Bunnies can be sold to

anyone by contacting us on our website Berkshire – for the love of scrubs – Our NHS needs YOU: After one of our members heard on Radio Berkshire that sewers were needed to sew scrubs and scrub bags, a number of us volunteered to help.

The Scrubs group, supplied the material and we started with scrub bags which we found quite easy and then went on to sew scrubs, when already cut out kits were available.

The scrubs were a bit more difficult partly because a number of us were making XXL and partly because some sewing machines had to be adjusted to cope with the material, also there were no markings on the fabric which meant a certain amount of guessing was involved!

Seven members of our club and one Rotarian have now made 15 sets of scrubs and a larger number of bags. These have been delivered to Waitrose stores who passed them on to the group who checked them and sent them on to hospitals, care homes, surgeries etc.

Due to the large number of items being made by people like us in the Berkshire area alone, more than 1,700 scrubs, 3,048 scrub bags and many headbands, hats and tunics have been made and sent out. The total is now over 8,000.

As you can tell we are a very active, enthusiastic and friendly group of ladies who welcome new members.

For more, visit our website, www.innerwheelrme.org Toni Trathen Club Correspondent

They are taking part in a scheme organised by the Sewa Day charity.

Sewa means performing an act of kindness without expectation of reward, and many adults have taken part in the scheme by cooking hot meals for frontline workers and arranging collections for food banks.

Children, the Sewa Day Charity says, were keen to help as they had done before the Covid-19 crisis.

One 11-year-old, Diya Shah, came up with the idea of creating “Appreciation Parcels” for local care homes.

They are filled with foods, letters and colourful drawings to brighten the days of residents.

On receiving the first appreciation parcel, Bridge House in Twyford said that the “Care Appreciation parcel has brightened their day and that they are looking forward to enjoying the food hamper”.

Children have created appreciation parcels for care homes as part of their support for Sewa Day

Janhvi Mokshi, aged 6, said it was great fun doing the care appreciation parcel and hope it brings a smile to the care homes.

She goes to Radstock Primary School in Lower Earley, which tweeted about their efforts to their fellow school friends.

Call to get writing A NATIONAL pen pal campaign aims to bring welcome cheer to Wokingham retirement living development Property developer Lifestory launched a Stronger Together campaign to encourage local communities to write pen pal style letters to owners isolated in their homes.

Owners at Wokingham’s Renaissance Retirement’s Fleur-de-lis development have enjoyed receiving lots of letters and drawings.

Writing letters, drawing pictures and sharing stories has also been a welcomed home-schooling activity.

The initiative has seen pen-pal style letters shared with Lifestory owners at its retirement developments up and down the country with children sharing stories and drawings about everything from their family and their favourite things to do during lockdown.

Lifestory CEO Mark Dickinson said: “We have received some fantastic letters, stories and drawings that are really imaginative, colourful and thoughtful.

“We would like to thank all those who have got involved so far to spread some welcomed joy to our owners at this time of uncertainty.

“With lockdown for the older generations set to continue for a longer period of time, we continue to encourage others to take part and get writing, drawing and sharing to create some really positive communication between the generations.

“Alone we are strong, together we are stronger’, is a core message that sits behind the Stronger Together campaign. Social distancing measures and the difficulty of accessing family and friends mean that our owners, many of whom usually play a really active day to day role in our communities, are staying in their homes so the wonderful creations we have been receiving and sharing

The children have delivered more than 16 parcels to care homes and they intend to extend the scheme to show their appreciation to keyworkers who have helped over the coronavirus pandemic.

Sathish Kumar, co-ordinator for Sewa Day

are set to brighten spirits.”

Communities up and down the country can still get involved and Lifestory would be delighted to hear from anyone wishing to take part in the initiative.

To join in, write a letter, short note about whatever you fancy, maybe asking some questions about memories, sharing a favourite film or book or beautiful picture and then email it to Lifestory at strongertogether@lifestory.group

CLASP Wokingham CLASP Wokingham is preparing for a busy June, which includes the annual Learning Disability Week.

As has been its custom during the coronavirus pandemic, meetings are being held online rather than in person.

It holds regular Zoom chats on Tuesdays and Fridays at 10am, which is open to anyone within Wokingham borough who has learning disabilities and would welcome seeing some friendly faces.

On Tuesday, June 2, Heather Dyson from Wokingahm Borough Libraries will talk about the British countryside, its wildlife and flowers.

There two singing sessions with the Sing Healthy Choir: on Fridays, June 5 and 19. This is a chance to bet out some favourite tunes.

Glow Radio (Radio 210) will be the subject of the June 9 meeting, with Roger Noble speaking to the group.

Vicky Scotford, from Wokingham Borough Council’s adult services team, will be introducing herself to CLASP on Tuesday, June 23.

As part of their participation of Learning Disability Week, which has a theme of The Importance of Friendship During Lockdown, it will hold an online quiz night on Tuesday, June 16, between 7pm and 9pm.

We welcome anyone from the borough

in Wokingham and Reading, said: “The children’s enthusiasm and passion for the appreciation parcels shows that we all can make a difference and spread some joy and that through creativity and determination we can overcome all challenges”.

and are keen to continue to support adults with Learning Disabilities in Wokingham, and want to reach out to those who are no longer at their day services or in work who may not have been able to attend our face-to-face sessions before, and let them know there is a community of like-minded people here to support them.

For more details, call 07780 749453 or log on to www.wokinghamclasp.org.uk Debs Morrison CLASP and LDPB Manager

Samaritans THE Samaritans’ branch for Bracknell, Wokingham, Ascot and Districts, would like publicly to thank local Rotarians for their generous £650 donation.

Its volunteers continue to ensure the local branch plays its part in the Governmentrecognised contribution that the Samaritans’ charity is making by offering emotional support during the coronavirus pandemic.

“Easthampstead Rotary Club has just donated this generous sum, and we’d like to applaud its wonderful continued support,” said Chris Lindsay, director at Samaritans of Bracknell, Wokingham, Ascot & Districts.

“This money is a great help, as it was with disappointment that we had to cancel a key fundraising event – a Wokingham Theatre evening – owing to the covid-19 situation.

“Rotary members raise money not only for many local charities but for important international projects.”

“We’d like to thank them and publicise their support of our service, which continues to operate all round the clock during this critical period, when so many are anxious and worried.”

For support, ring 116 123 free or email jo@samaritans.org.

Please note that the branch is currently unable to provide face to face support.

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Cross the bridge and learn something new NEW ONLINE courses will be created as part of an initiative to remove barriers to studying the arts.

South Hill Park Arts Centre will be bringing art and cultural experiences to the home through its new SHP Bridge project.

Funded by an emergency grant from Arts Council England, the project aims to tackle barriers including cost and travel, and create a more inclusive learning platform for the arts.

Project organisers at South Hill Park hope to bring the best cultural experiences into the home.

They will be partnering with some of the best specialist tutors in the industry. And the structure, content and style will be shaped by community consultation.

The arts centre will also work to make the resources accessible to those who are disabled, socially isolated or lonely, and will be guided by expert partners when creating the platform. � For updates on the upcoming project, visit: www.southhillpark.org.uk

For the latest news visit

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Getting the band back together

A magical storytime

The cast of Manband, a new show coming to the Kenton Theatre this autumn

NORDEN Farm in Maidenhead has taken its popular storytelling sessions online – and a magical twist hosted.

Magic and Storytelling with Patrick Ashe brings tales to life online through Norden Farm’s social media channels and in interactive sessions on Zoom.

The new series of storytelling begins with two free pre recorded tales – The Smartest Giant in Town by Julia Donaldson and Eric Carle’s The Very Hungry Caterpillar.

These interactive stories will be broadcast on Zoom.

Patrick Ashe, who hosts the magic sessions, said: “I have been doing magic ever since I was 13, when, on Christmas Eve, my cousin showed me a magic trick.

“Since then it’s been a real passion of mine, and has enabled me to perform magic around the world, including on Britain’s Got Talent.

“It’s been a real joy and amazing experience, and I am so excited to be teaching and sharing some of my favourite magic tricks.”

Patrick added: “I auditioned to be a member of The Magic Circle in 2017, when I was 18. It was a very nervewracking experience, but I am so grateful for all the things I have learnt from being a part of this society.

“During these online sessions, I will be teaching you tricks to baffle your friends and family. All of them will be easy to learn and perform, and will use everyday objects.”

Patrick will weave magic tricks into the live stories and will be teaching participants a trick or two. As a member of The Magic Circle, he is sworn to keeping the tricks a secret – which means that you must keep them too.

The next session is on Tuesday, June 2, and runs from 1.30pm-2pm. Places cost £5 per session. � To book, log on to www.nordenfarm.org

M

ANY first crushes are on the boy bands of the day … and when you grow up, you don’t necessarily put the childish things aside when the groups reform for a nostalgia tour.

Tickets for reunions of 90s bands such as Take That often sell-out within minutes of going on sale, and there is still strong demand for tribute acts with imaginative names such as Fake That.

Makers of a new musical, planned for Henley’s Kenton Theatre this October, are looking to bring on the good times while raising a good deal for charity.

Manband is a show that will star X Factor finalist Danyl Johnson along with a talented cast that aims to offer a bit of nostalgia and a great night out.

The show is about a fictional boy band that is now slightly longer in the tooth, wider in the hips and lacking in the hair department.

To wow their fans, they are planning a reunion show that will be the ultimate boy band concert – will it go to plan? Will they get along?

And will they all show up?

It features songs from bands such as N-Sync, Backstreet Boys, Take That, Westlife, Boyzone and 5ive, and promises to be a feelgood show to get you dancing in the aisles.

It will raise money for Sue Ryder and Ataxia UK, a charity that helps people who suffer from neurological disorders that affect balance, coordination and speech.

Ben Ashton is one of the team behind the show.

“It’s definitely going to be a fun, entertaining night, going back to the 90s and 00s boyband era.

“It’s a concert, but it’s also about a band that were famous and come back together again for one night only – they’re literally getting the band back together.”

Ben admits that the show has its roots in a little number that BBC Four screened in 2018, called Bros: After The Screaming Stops. It charted Matt and Luke Goss's reunion 28 years since they were top of the pops.

“We were inspired by it,” he admits.

And the show is for everyone.

“Our guilty pleasure is for boy bands, when we were 15, we did all the dance routines,” he says.

But a big thing for the cast is the fundraising.

“We want to raise money for charities,” Ben says. “We want to keep the show entertaining, give a

professional performance, and it will be an amazing night.

“Many famous boyband songs will be sung, but we’re tight-lipped as to who so it’s a surprise on the night.”

And it should take place when life is getting back to normal. For now though, the coronavirus is causing some headaches for the group.

“Not being able to rehearse together is hard,” Ben admits.

“We’ve done some stuff though, we’ve been singing together online.”

And Ben says that the show will be family-friendly, with the cast playing “heightened versions of themselves”.

So, which one is the diva? � Manband will be performed, subject to lockdown restrictions ending, at the Kenton Theatre in Henley on Sunday, October 11.

Tickets cost £21. For more details, log on to www.kentontheatre.co.uk PHIL CREIGHTON

26 | EDUCATION

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At school? This is the page you can write! We welcome your articles, poems, pictures and stories for this page. Send your articles to news@ wokinghampaper.co.uk

News from schools | Stories from pupils

From school to Milan? On yer bike, Alain

By JOHN WAKEFIELD news@wokinghampaper.co.uk

A SCHOOLBOY is going the distance for the NHS by riding from Reading to Milan on his stationary bike.

Cycling entirely from his living room and covering a distance of 50km (31 miles) a day, he is on his way to raising £1,000 for NHS Charities Together.

Not one to sit back and relax, the idea came to Alain Colangelo, a pupil at Leighton Park School, after he considered what he could do to help, amidst the coronavirus pandemic.

“The NHS is under huge strain at the moment and we should do all we can to help them,” explained Alain.

“The UK and Italy, especially the Lombardy region, are hugely affected by the Covid-19 virus. I’m Italian-born and living in the UK; these two countries are my home.”

Since he started his ride on Easter Sunday, the Year 7 pupil has not stopped.

Often exceeding his daily

Alain Colangelo from Leighton Park School at the start of his ride (left) and after reaching Mlan (main picture)

target of 50km, Alain has already gone past his aim of cycling 1,300km (807 miles) – the exact distance from the Shinfield-based school to Milan.

Completing the daily feat with his mum by his side for encouragement, the pair have said they are willing to go as far as it takes to raise as much money as possible.

“We will keep on going, whatever it takes,” said Alain’s mother, Justine. “However, saying that, I don’t think we could manage cycling all the way to China.

“I think Alain’s gesture to support the NHS is so thoughtful. Aside from that there is even an educational element to it. We like to track where we would be on the map and find out more about those places.”

Alain’s JustGiving page where he posts daily updates on his progress, are complete with photographs and facts about the places he and his mum have discovered.

On Day 8, upon his arrival in Laon he recorded, “This medieval city is isolated atop a

100-metre-high limestone rock that punctuates the low, flat plains around. In the high town, encircled by eight kilometres of walls and formidable gates is France’s biggest protected historic centre. Great for sightseeing.”

Even though Alain usually enjoys keeping fit as a goalkeeper at Berks Elite Football Club, he had little experience of cycling before now.

On his third day he wrote “Another 52km (32 miles) done.

My legs are killing me, but I’ll keep going. I’m almost in Folkestone.” he next day he made it across the pond to Calais, matching his distance. But by day five he had ramped up his progress even further by

BENNY’S CONFLICT

By James Lomax Part 19 of 26 Finally the gang are in the prison, and Benny and Shana are looking through the system to find Carlos’ parents. Carlos would be there with him, but he’s away getting processed, but don’t worry, that’s just part of his plan.

A

FTER 45 minutes of scanning the long, long list of humans, aliens and AI in this prison, they finally found Carlos’ parents.

It was hard, as Carlos’ surname, like all human surnames, was a symbol, of which there were millions, but they eventually found two names, male and female, who had been imprisoned on the same date. Bernard and Bertha, who were being held on floor 85, in Cell Block G9 on that level.

Benny and Shana began the long journey down to the 85th floor. The security bots wouldn’t do anything to them unless they were doing something they had been programmed to respond to, so they were untouched during their journey.

All the way down, Benny wondered how they were going to do this, but Shana appeared confident.

Finally, the lift arrived down, and opened with a ting.

A couple of security bots walked inside, holding a muscly blue alien with a beak like a parrot, who grinned at them as the doors closed.

Benny shivered, but followed Shana down to Cell Block G9, past cells holding hundreds of inmates, some human, some alien and some androids. Benny wondered what crime Carlos’ parents did to get imprisoned with these criminals.

When they reached Cell Block G9, Benny was on the lookout, inspecting the name tags of every inmate he saw, even the aliens. After a while, he found who he was looking for, in a quiet cell together. Bernard and Bertha were both in their 60s, but they still looked fit enough to take on a number of people and come off without a scratch. Their eyes were calculating, always searching around, which made Benny ponder how many times they tried to escape.

cycling 62km in total.

As the Summer Term commenced and Alain returned to his schoolwork, he has taken to cycling in the evenings. Neck and neck, while he broached the halfway mark of his journey, so did his fundraising target.

Following his fantasy finish across the line, Ron Colangelo, Alain’s cousin congratulated him on his achievement via Facebook, “Good job Alain. You did a very nice thing.…

Congratulations cousin. You are a very special young man, your parents must be very proud of you for thinking about other people.”

You can support Alain and the NHS over on his Just Giving Page: www.justgiving.com/ fundraising/alain-colangelo1

They instantly recognised Shana, and Benny could tell they did not like her. The feeling appeared to be mutual, but nonetheless she came close to the bars and told them she was going to help them escape. Bernard looked confused, “How? We’ve been trying to get out of here for twenty years.”

“Well, you didn’t have this,” Shana said, triumphantly, as she reached into Benny’s pocket and withdrew the Freedom Cube. Bernard looked over at Bertha, equal confusion and dismay. “And what about you?” Bertha asked, looking at Benny and his broken arm, “Why are you here?”

“Oh I’m Benny, Carlos’ friend.” At the mention of Carlos, they both turned directly towards Benny.

“Where is our boy?” Bernard questioned, “Is he safe? Is he alive?”

“He’s fine, you can see him soon,” Benny assured them, “but first we need to get you out of here.”

While they were talking, a security bot had walked up to them. MOVE ALONG, it said to Shana and Benny.

Shana was fiddling with the Freedom Cube managing to press a plate on it. It opened like a flower, and Shana jumped round the back of the bot and inserted into its head. After a pause, the bot turned to Bernard and Bertha. COME WITH ME, it droned as it unlocked the doors.

Benny turned to Shana, “How did you do that?”

“Freedom Cubes have the ability to hack the mainframe of any android. I gave the Cube some orders on the journey and now it should take us back to the ship safely.”

The bot took Carlos’ parents through the many cells, with Carlos and Shana following. Occasionally, the passed other bots, but they acted like none of them were there. Benny realised Shana must have been an expert with technology to pass this off. Then again, to fight against Izen, you had to be.

When they finally arrived to the hangers, where The Golden Dawn sat tantalisingly close, an alarm blazed around the prison. A mechanical voice echoed around the prison, WARNING. ESCAPED CONVICTS. SHOOT ON SIGHT. Benny looked over his shoulder as he heard the thumbing of metallic feet and the firing of lasers, and realised he’d never make it to the ship in time.

To be continued…

Thursday, May 28, 2020 THEWOKINGHAMPAPER / WOKINGHAM.TODAY

LEISURE | 27

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If you’ve ever wanted to grow a pineapple IN THE KITCHEN

P

INEAPPLES, carrots and chillies are some of the vegetables that can easily be grown at home from food scraps.

Plant and garden experts from GardeningExpress.co.uk have revealed five fruit and vegetables which can all be regrown at home.

Take parts of the food which would normally be thrown away, such as the seeds or the tops, and put them in water or plant in soil in order for the fresh fruit and vegetables to grow.

Chris Bonnett, from Gardening Express, said: “Instead of throwing scraps from food into the bin or compost heap this is a great way to make your own produce.

“As with planting normal seeds not all of these will work straight away, so it may be best to try two or three of each variety to increase your chances of reaping the rewards.

“This is a great way to help reduce food waste whilst also helping save money on fruit and veg, or their seeds.”

These are GardeningExpress.co.uk ’s pick of the easiest fruit and vegetables to grow from scraps:

Lana McArdell www.CurryFrenzy.com

Aubergine and Anchovy Bake

Once a shoot is starting to grow you can transfer the carrot top into soil and water as if you were growing a normal carrot.

Spring Onions The green part of spring onions can be saved to grow more of the flavoursome white section.

Simply place the green sprouts into a jar of water.

The water needs to be changed every other day, and within around a week you should have a full spring onion ready to eat.

Carrots

Chillies

The top part of a carrot which you would normally cut off and throw away can be used to grow more carrots.

Place the top in a small bowl of water, the cut side facing down, then place into sunlight. Ensure that it gets plenty of water daily.

The seeds in chillies which are the source of the majority of the heat can also be used to grow more chillies.

Simply plant the seeds into some soil, as you would do if you were growing a plant from scratch, then place in a sunny area.

Mushrooms You can re-grow any type of mushrooms from their scraps.

Remove the cap of the mushroom and keep that to use in your cooking. The stalks should then be planted into soil, with everything covered apart from the very top.

The stalks should then regrow caps ready for you to harvest.

Pineapple The top leafy part of the fruit needs to be removed in order to grow pineapples. To remove this you need to twist it. Then remove the lower leaves until the bottom layers are exposed.

Cut off the base of the “tree” then poke a couple of toothpicks into the base and suspend over a water-filled bowl.

When roots form, plant the pineapple top in soil. It can take a few months for the pineapple to grow, so patience is needed.

Petsandvets With Claire Turner

T

� 2 Aubergines thickly sliced in rings about 2cm. � 1 Tin Anchovies in oil � 2 Cloves Garlic finely grated � Black Pepper � Sunflower oil

HIS simple dish is a fantastic pairing if you like the two main ingredients.

This is excellent on its own or as a great match for roast lamb.

Method

Ingredients Serves 4 as a side or 2 as a main

Using a knife chop the anchovies as finely as you can in their oil and mix in the garlic to make a paste.

Lightly oil a roasting tin and add

Providing personal care for all your pets

the sliced aubergines.

Spoon a little anchovy and garlic paste onto each piece.

Drizzle with extra oil if needed then lightly season with some freshly cracked black pepper and bake at 180ºC in the oven for about 20 minutes until the aubergine is soft.

Lana McArdell www.CurryFrenzy.com

Trusted by you to provide personal care for all your pets since 2005

What should you do if your cat 0118 or 979 dog has ticks? 0118 979 3200 3200 Oaklands Park, Wokingham RG41 2FD

Ticks are common in the warmer months and without protection many cats and dogs come back from the woods with uninvited friends.

Ticks are often felt while petting or grooming an animal. Owners will feel a lump which wasn't there before. However small lumps and nipples are often confused for ticks so it is important to get a close look before trying to remove it.

Ticks are oval, creamy brown in colour and range from 1mm to 1cm in size. They have small black legs near their head which will be visible where the tick attaches to the pet.

If it is a tick it is important to remove it sooner rather than later. However do not scrape or pull the tick off as this can lead to the mouthparts remaining inside the animal. If this happens please phone your vet.

It is a good idea to have a tick hook at home to remove any ticks.

First of all restrain your pet and spread the fur so you can get to the area where the tick has attached.

Then slide the claw of the hook between the body of the tick and the skin.

Gently twist until the tick lets go on its own. Do not exert any pulling force on the tick.

Once the tick is removed dispose of it in a sealed container.

Finally clean the area the tick was attached with salt water or hibiscrub, if you have any at home. Keep an eye on the area the tick was removed.

It is often inflamed and if this is not reducing or is

Oaklands Park, Wokingham RG41 2FD

� Claire Turner is a Veterinary Surgeon at St. Vincents Veterinary Surgery, a family-owned practice providing personal care for all your pets in and around Wokingham. To find out more visit www.stvincentsvets.co.uk or call the practice on 0118 979 3200 to arrange a visit and meet the team.

Providing personal care for all your pets Wokingham RG41prevention 2FD and ThePark, best course of action is always getting worse after removing the tick phone your vet.Oaklands there are many flea products which also provide Ticks can carry diseases and although it is rare for protection against ticks. animals to catch them it can still happen. If you notice If your dogs or cats are not already protected then any target lesions around the bite, lethargy, stiffness or please chat to your vet about tick prevention products. anorexia after a tick bite phone your vet.

0118 979 3200

Trusted by you to provide personal care for all your pets since 2005 Oaklands Park, Wokingham RG41 2FD

0118 979 3200

28 | SPORT

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY / THEWOKINGHAMPAPER Thursday, May 28, 2020

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READING FC

Royals make training return under ‘special measures’

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokinghampaper.co.uk

READING FC, among their fellow Championship teams, have returned to training under special measures for the first time since March.

The English Football League has provided guidelines and updated protocols for clubs to follow as they got back into action on Monday.

The Royals have been trained at Bearwood Park and the club has said that every precaution is being taken, with regular Covid-19 tests, staggered arrivals and start times and socially-distanced non-contact sessions conducted within small groups.

The club said it is delighted to see football return, but that life is not yet back to niormal.

The EFL is planning to conclude the 2019/20 as soon as it is deemed safe to do so, with matches likely to be played being closed doors.

The league said: “The EFL has provided its clubs with updated and finalised Return to

Training Protocols ahead of the planned resumption of tailored training on Monday, May 25 for Championship clubs, and moved to clarify the League’s approach to the testing of players and subsequent reporting.”

Testing of players took place last week, and the EFL said: “There will be a flexible approach to testing, with a combination of procedures conducted by independent testers, club medical staff and some self-testing as required.

“The accuracy of these tests is aligned with Government guidelines and, for the avoidance of any doubt, availability to clubs will not impact NHS testing resources or prevent other individuals from receiving a test as required.

“The EFL will announce the following data at the end of the initial testing phase: � the number of tests undertaken � the number of positive cases, if any.”

“The health, well-being and safety of EFL players, managers

CRICKET

and staff has been at the forefront of the League’s discussions, scenario planning and decision making throughout this process and we will continue to consult with medical experts to ensure this is maintained.”

At the suspension of the Championship season in March, the Royals are in 14th position in the table, with nine league games still to be played.

It is still currently unknown when the season may resume, but it has been suggested that it could be late June.

But it appears that the season is one step closer to resuming with all 24 Championship teams returning to training this week. � First team players at the club have agreed to defer a ‘substantial percentage’ of their salaries in May, June and July, due to the pandemic.

Club captaion Liam Moore told Readingfc.co.uk: “We felt that this was the least we could do as we all try to get through the challenges that the coming weeks and months will present us with.”

Mark Bowen in his first Royals training session in October. Picture: Steve Smyth

FOOTBALL

TVCL plan for Sumas home gets TLC treatment reduced contest

By ANDY PRESTON

apreston@wokinghampaper.co.uk

THE Thames Valley Cricket League has ‘suspended indefinitely’ for the 2020 season – but plans are in place to ensure some games will be played this summer.

The season, which was due to begin earlier this month, has been interrupted due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

The TVCL says it is now planning for a reduced nine-match competition in the event of a possible restart for the second half of the summer season.

A statement released by Hon Secretary of the Thames Valley Cricket League, Matthew Stevenson, said: “Until we receive another update, our 2020 competition is likewise suspended indefinitely.

“Starting with round four on Saturday, May 30, we will cancel one round at a time on TVCL16 until we receive further guidance from ECB. “If the indefinite suspension of recreational cricket is lifted this summer then it is likely that it will be with severe social mobility restrictions in place.

However, there is little point in speculating further on what these might be until an announcement is made.

“We are modelling some plans for a reduced competition in the second half of the summer based on the feedback which we received from member clubs in April.

“It is likely to be a nine-match competition using the published fixture list, all in the win/lose format, and without promotion or relegation.

“We think that a round of friendlies on July 4, and then a nine-match competition starting on the following week, Saturday, July 11 is the most optimistic scenario.”

WITH the current Hellenic League season on hold, Wokingham & Emmbrook have been putting their time to good use by making improvements to their club house at Lowther Road.

Having moved back to their Emmbrook home at the start of the 2019/20 season,

the Sumas have used the suspension of the season to make some touch ups to their ground and club house.

Volunteers at the club, socially distanced, have given a lick of paint to the the dugouts at Lowther Roadappropriately painted in the orange and black colours of the Sumas.

The club house has also had a new coat of paint and is looking fresh ahead of the new season.

After the 2019/20 Hellenic League Division One East was deemed ‘null and void’ with the Sumas finishing in fourth position, they will be eagerly anticipating the return of league football for the upcoming season.

Thursday, May 28, 2020 THEWOKINGHAMPAPER / WOKINGHAM.TODAY

CLASSIFIEDS | 29

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PUBLIC NOTICES WOKINGHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL PLANNING APPLICATION The Town and Country Planning (Development Management Procedure) (England) Order 2015 AND/OR Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Regulations 1990 The following application(s) have been submitted and are advertised for the reasons below: Application

Address

201149

Land east of Oak Major Application Avenue South of Sadler Crescent and north of A329 London Road

Full planning application for a park and ride facility comprising access, car and motorcycle parking spaces, bicycle storage, bus stops, landscaping, drainage and ancillary development.

12 Sturges Road, Wokingham

Conservation Area

Householder application for the proposed erection of a single storey side/rear extension including the insertion of 3no. roof lights, plus changes to fenestration, following demolition of existing store room.

Alexandra House, Alexandra Court, Wokingham

Conservation Area

201164

201050

Reasons for Advert Description

Full planning application for the change of use of night club on the ground floor of Alexandra House to a flexible mixed use comprising A1 (Retail), A2 (Financial and Professional Services), A3 (Cafes and Restaurants), A4 (Drinking Establishments), and/or A5 (Hot Food Takeaways) and B1(a) (Office) plus changes to fenestration at ground floor. Part retrospective.

ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 WOKINGHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL (EMMBROOK ROAD, WOKINGHAM) (TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF DRIVING) ORDER 2020 NOTICE IS HEREBY given that Wokingham Borough Council as Traffic Authority proposes to make an Order under Section 14 (1) (a) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 the effect of which is prohibit any vehicle from proceeding along: Emmbrook Road, Wokingham between its junctions with A329 Reading Road and Lowther Road.

The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via A329 Reading Road, Old Forest Road and Lowther Road or by this route in reverse.

Works requiring this restriction will take place between 15th June and 19th June 2020 between 21:00 and 06:00 The reason for these prohibitions is to allow BT contractors to undertake underground cabling and connection work in safety.

Access for residents and businesses within the boundaries of these restrictions will be maintained at all times.

The restriction imposed by the Order shall only apply during those periods when traffic signs complying with the Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions 2016 are lawfully displayed.

The restrictions contained in the Order shall come into operation on the 15th June 2020 and shall continue in force for a period not exceeding 18 months or until the works have been completed, whichever is the earlier.

Dated this 28th May 2020

The application is available to view online at wokingham.gov.uk � Planning � Search planning applications and typing in the application number above. All libraries in the Borough have internet access in order to view this page.

Comments on the application can be made online from this web page.

Any comments must arrive on or before 19th June 2020. Any comments made are not confidential and can be seen by anyone as they form part of the public record. The comments, unless offensive, discriminatory and/or racist, will appear on the Council’s website within 24 hours and include the submitted name and address. Due to the high volume of comments received we do not provide individual responses.

Mark Cupit, Assistant Director – Delivery and Infrastructure Wokingham Borough Council Civic Offices Shute End Wokingham Berkshire RG40 1WL

Date: 28th May 2020

Wokingham Borough Council Licensing Act 2003 S17 Application for Premises Licence NEWSPAPER NOTICE

SERVICES

THE TASTING BARN LTD of Unit 8, Holme Grange Craft Village, Heathlands Road, Wokingham,RG40 3AW proposes to carry on the following licensable activities at the above premises:

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Retail and wholesale sale of alcohol for consumption off premises, plus wine tasting events where alcohol will be consumed on the premises.

Representations may be made in writing by any responsible authority or interested party in the vicinity of the premises to the licensing authority - Licensing Team, Wokingham Borough Council, POB 155, Shute End, Wokingham, RG40 1WW or by email to licensing@wokingham.gov.uk All representations made are open to public inspection Representations to be made by: 24 June 2020 th

This application has been made to the Licensing Team at Wokingham Borough Council where a register of applications is kept and a record of the application may be inspected. Contact 0118 974 6358 or www.wokingham.gov.uk

Under S158 of the above act, a person commits an offence if he knowingly or recklessly makes a false statement in connection with an application. A person guilty of an offence under this section is liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding level 5 on the standard scale.

Dated: 28th May 2020

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PROPERTY | 31

BACK ON THE PITCH Royals return to training • P28

YVETTE ON TARGET FOR OLYMPIC DREAM

Yvette Whitecompeting at the Intershoot 2020 – she is hoping to make the Team GB squad Picture: Frank Streng

Published by The Wokingham Paper Ltd, Crown House, 231 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS. Printed at Reach Watford © The Wokingham Paper Ltd, 2020

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