The Wokingham Paper, June 11, 2020

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

THEWOKINGHAMPAPER

THE VOICE OF THE BOROUGH

WOKINGHAM.TODAY

Charity gives out a year’s worth of advice

Thursday, June 11, 2020 No. 265

70p

DOORSTEP GLASS COLLECTIONS P11

EXCLUSIVE

By TAZ USHER tusher@wokinghampaper.co.uk A YEAR’S worth of clients in just 12 weeks – that’s what the coronavirus pandemic has done to a help centre for Wokingham borough residents.

SAFELY HOME AFTER HEALTH SCARE P4

Citizens Advice Wokingham says that it has helped more residents during the pandemic than it normally does in a year.

Since March, the charity has partnered with Wokingham Borough Council and local charities to respond to the Covid-19 crisis and has supported 2,257 people in that time.

Chief executive of Citizens Advice Wokingham, Jake Morrison said: “When the pandemic hit we launched our One Front Door scheme which brought together all local organisations needed to pull our community through this crisis.

“Our team of 87 volunteers and 10 part-time staff have worked tirelessly over the past 12 weeks to deliver the guidance and aid people during this uncertain and difficult time.”

The One Front Door initiative links residents with the right level of support needed for their situation, whether that be local food banks, mental health support groups or charities including First Days, Involve and Age UK. And the organisation has seen a huge change not only in the number of residents seeking help, but the demographic of its clients.

“The pandemic has caused a rise in those seeking help with self-employment, benefits, homelessness, debt and family tension,” Mr Morrison said.

He added: “When I began as chief executive my goal was to create a resilience organisation.

“The resilience this team has shown throughout the pandemic is incredible.

“The time and effort that they have put in is inspirational – I am exceptionally proud of them.”

NOT ONE, BUT TWO 100THS P3

How it could look if boy band One Direction reunited for a socially distanced shopping trip in Woodley Band picture: Fiona McKinlay

Town centres shake-up as non-essential stores prepare to re-open safely

EXCLUSIVE THE Borough Council is hard at work to install one-way systems and other Covid-19 secure measures to ensure shoppers can visit Twyford, Woodley and Wokingham safely from Monday. Crowds are expected to flock to the shops as a � Full story page 2 result.

EARLEY’S MASKED HELPER P16 CLUBS’ RICHES FOR PITCHES P40

2 | NEWS

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, June 11, 2020

Council prepares to make town centres safe for shoppers EXCLUSIVE

By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokinghampaper.co.uk AS NON-ESSENTIAL shops prepare to reopen from Monday, steps are being taken to ensure that the borough’s town centres are as safe as possible.

A range of new measures will be introduced including oneway systems, hand cleaning stations and encouraging residents to wear masks.

Some stores will also be introducing different opening hours, appointment systems and click and collect options in a bid to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.

Over the next few days, Wokingham Borough Council will start to install markings on pavements and pedestrianised areas so that it is easy to keep shoppers going in one direction and avoid doubling back on themselves.

This will be similar to systems already in supermarkets across the borough.

While it is easier to protect shoppers in Woodley’s Crockhamwell Road precinct because it is pedestrianised, extra care needs to be taken in Twyford, which has narrow pavements, and Wokingham, where a temporary closure of some lanes of traffic make be introduced to make pedestrianised areas wider.

The borough council is hoping that the measures will encourage shoppers to come flooding back to bricks and mortar stores after being forced to stay at home during the lockdown period.

They have launched a campaign, Stay safe, Shop Local, Shop Wokingham Borough, to

Woodley will have a new one-way system in place to keep shoppers safe

encourage residents to return to the borough’s retail centres.

Benefits of shopping locally include boosting the local economy, something that is important as all our retail centres contain locally-owned businesses.

The council said that this also helps bring communities closer together, especially at tough times.

And there is also a push to get shoppers to walk or cycle to their local shopping centre, which again helps with social distancing.

Cllr Stuart Munro, Executive Member for Business and Economic Development, told Wokingham.Today: “We’ve got a plan, we’ll be doing our bit to help businesses.

“We’re looking at all the options now (including closing lanes of traffic), signs will be put up in towns, information posters will go up on boards.

“There’s a lot of people helping to make our messaging work.”

He added: “We’ll support the town to do it safely.”

One store that is looking to do things differently is Antique

Rose in Bush Walk. It also has an entrance via Peach Place.

Owner Georgina Hustler said that it couldn’t open as normal, although it is seeing record numbers order via its website.

It will reopen for three days a week from Thursday, June 18.

“We’ll be offering appointments, where people can come in for 20 minutes.

People can book in advance, come in and then after their shop, we can clean, refresh and restock.”

She felt that this would help shoppers to feel more comfortable in visiting the store.

“As a small business, we think this is the best way to manage so that staff feel safe, we can do all the things we normally do and minimise the risk of spreading the virus.

“The whole point is that it’s a lovely shopping experience, and we don’t want to jeopardise that with socially distancing measures. This way, people are safe.

“It should work quite nicely.”

Wokingham Borough Council said that it would review the measures in place on a regular basis.

Santa wants singers for July CHRISTMAS isn’t cancelled, it’s just going to be slightly different to what Santa has hoped for.

It’s in July for starters.

Crowthorne-based charity Sebastian’s Action Trust usually holds the annual event to give the families of hundreds of seriously-ill children a fun-filled afternoon and creating memories that last a lifetime.

But, like everything this year, the Covid-19 pandemic has meant that it is not safe or possible to hold the event this year.

The festive party had been planned to take place at Ascot Racecourse, where there would have been fun, games and plenty of surprises.

The charity doesn’t want to

let down the families it helps, so it has decided to launch a virtual party instead.

Over three hours, it will make memories - just over the internet.

And to make it work, it is hoping that bands, musicians and solo artists will take part in a special 30-minute online concert aimed at lifting the spirits of vulnerable families who will likely need to remain in lockdown for the foreseeable future due to the condition of their seriously-ill child, A spokesperson for the charity said: “At Sebastian’s Action Trust, Christmas in July is the event of the year and the occasion our families tell us they treasure the most.

“If you are in a band, are a musician or solo performer we would love to hear from you.”

To take part, artists are asked to record – in landscape mode – a video of them performing an upbeat song of their choice that would be suitable for young children.

It suggests covers of songs by artists such as Taylor Swift, One Direction, Ariane Grande, Meghan Trainer, Ed Sheeran and Ollie Murs.

But you need to be quick – the closing date is tomorrow.

Videos can be emailed to amy@sebastiansactiontrust.org For more information about Christmas in July and Sebastian’s Action Trust, visit www.sebastiansactiontrust.org

NEWS | 3

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Thursday, June 11, 2020 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

IN LOVE: After 80 years together, couple still go to bed holding hands

Couple celebrate their 100th birthdays and an anniversary EXCLUSIVE

By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokinghampaper.co.uk A WOKINGHAM couple are making 2020 a year to remember: not only have they celebrated their 80th wedding anniversary but this month they are both marking their 100th birthdays.

Family members joined Alex Moss in his garden on Monday to help him celebrate his centenary, while his wife Mabel will reach the same milestone on Sunday, June 28.

The couple grew up in Rotherhithe in London, where the met as teenagers in the 1930s. Alex was a member of the Boys’ Brigade, playing the drum in its band, and Mabel belonged to a group similar to the Girl Guides.

Both clubs met at a church known locally as the Great Hall that was used as a community centre.

Rachel Slocombe, who works with Crossroads Care that helps look after the couple, said: “They met when they joined each other’s social circles, they knew each as youngsters.

“But Alex was in love with another young lady, and asked Mabel to pass messages on to her. It was not an instant romance, it developed.”

Love did blossom though, and Ms Slocombe said that Mabel had kept a poem from all those years ago: “In it, he wrote how he hoped to make her happy for the rest of her life. He had no idea how long that would be.”

Called up to fight in the Second World War, Alex proposed to Mabel and the couple married in February 1940. Later that year, Mabel was

John and Jenny Gilbert have celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary

A diamond couple

Left: Alex and Mabel Moss on their wedding day in February 1940; Top: As they are today; Above: Alex enjoys his birthday card from the Queen

moved to a mothers home in Wisbech, near Cambridge, where their first son was born.

They went on to have another son and two daughters.

Initially posted to London, Alex spent much of the war in North Africa, Italy and Austria.

After being demobbed, Alex joined the civil service, but Mabel had a variety of jobs, including working for biscuit maker Peek Freans when she left school at 14.

“She always wanted an office job, and finally got one with the civil service,” Ms Slocombe said.

They moved to Wokingham in 1973, where they got stuck into the community.

Ms Slocombe said: “On retiring, they worked as volunteers at Wokingham Hospital, where Mabel ran the WVS Coffee Shop and received a medal for her long service. It’s amazing, she did it off her own back.

“Alex did a taxi service to help people get to their appointments.”

The couple, who still go to sleep holding hands, are still reasonably independent, despite Mabel going blind.

“She is amazing,” Ms Slocombe said. “They are both in reasonably good health, they enjoy doing jigsaws and they can get out and about.”

And one of their daughters is always on hand, acting as their main carer.

To mark Alex’s birthday, family came over to see them in their garden, maintaining social distancing.

In addition to four children, they have six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

And Ms Slocombe said that their marriage has lasted because “they are totally committed to each other, no question.

“Mabel told me that the secret of a long life is good genes, and the secret of a long marriage is give and take.”

A WOKINGHAM couple managed to celebrate their diamond wedding anniversary last week, even if their original plans had changed as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.

The June 4 wedding – Whitsun Saturday 1960 – of John and Jenny Gilbert was held amid a heatwave.

Mrs Gilbert said: “It was a scorcher. The newly tarmacked drive to the village church in Bournemouth started to melt and the vicar ran out and asked all the ladies in their stilettos to move on to the grass verges, and please not to throw confetti as it would stick.

“We were the last marriage that he held as he then retired and with his wife departed to New Zealand to be with their son.”

After six years in Dorset, the couple moved to Wokingham as Mr Gilbert worked as an air traffic controller at West Drayton.

The couple said that they

Holes in the road HOLES are to be dug on a busy main road, to allow contractors to look into them.

Wokingham Borough Council’s roads team, Balfour Beatty, has announced that it is to install temporary traffic lights – two-way and four-way – on Reading Road from Monday.

The three-day scheme will see ground investigation works, known as trial holes, at four different locations along the road that links Winnersh with Wokingham. It will help with

preparations for the North Wokingham Distributor Road scheme.

The lights will be in operation between 9.30am and 3.30pm and access for local residents will be maintained at all times.

This means they are off-peak works, however there may be some delays as a result of the works.

For more details, log on to www.facebook.com/ WokinghamRoadworks or call the Balfour Beatty helpdesk on 0800 121 4444.

For advice and assistance on Family Law matters including: • Divorce and separa�on

• Property/financial settlements

• Child arrangements

• Family disputes

• Cohabita�on agreements

• Prenup�al agreements

Contact our Family Law team today for a free 1 hour consulta�on

Evolu�on House, 53-59 Peach Street, Wokingham, RG40 1XP Tel: 0118 978 1017 Email: Michele.Jenno@star-legal.co.uk

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quickly settled into their new home, with Mrs Gilbert helping the 1st Wokingham Brownies and joining the Wokingham Horticultural Association, a membership that continues to this day.

They also support various charities, by being the secretary for the local NSPCC Committee for many years and helping with WADE (then called Little Court) and delivering the Meals on Wheels.

“It was an active and friendly town and still remains the same,” Mrs Gilbert said.

Their original plans for a celebration to remember have been put on hold, but their daughter, who lives in Wallingford, and their son, who works in Winnersh, came for outdoor afternoon tea on Saturday.

Mrs Gilbert said: “Plans had to alter as the weather changed to damp and windy. Never mind, after 60 years we felt we could deal with anything.”

4 | 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 Email news@wokinghampaper.co.uk

Newsroom: 0118 327 2662 Advertising: 0118 327 2662 Write to: The Wokingham Paper, Crown House, 231 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS Editor • Phil Creighton Reporter • Jess Warren Sports reporter • Andy Preston

From the editor Welcome to another packed edition of Wokingham.Today. As we have been doing since the lockdown started, the paper is running a reduced service.

We thank you for your understanding during this time, particularly our advertisers who are sticking with us. We are grateful for your support.

Although more businesses are now open, we are aware that it is not always easy to buy a copy of Wokingham.Today from your supermarket, newsagent or petrol station.

One of the ways we are helping is by offering a free digital version of the paper, which will be available on Friday evenings.

And our website is updated seven days a week, visit Wokingham.Today for the latest news.

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.

Please note, our offices remain closed to the public – in the first instance, contact us by email.

Thank you for your support.

THE Wokingham Paper Ltd publications are regulated by IPSO – the Independent Press Standards Organisation. If you have a complaint about a Wokingham Paper Ltd publication in print or online, you should, in the first instance email: pcreighton@wokinghampaper.co.uk, or telephone: 0118 327 2662. If it is not resolved to your satisfaction, you should contact IPSO by telephone: 0300 123 2220, or visit its website: www.ipso.co.uk. Members of the public are welcome to contact IPSO at any time if they are not sure how to proceed, or need advice on how to frame a complaint.

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, June 11, 2020

Family’s fragile start has a happy ending thanks to Royal Berks

By TAZ USHER tusher@wokinghampaper.co.uk A WOODLEY mum has made a miraculous recovery following two weeks in intensive care.

Laura Damulira, 29, required emergency treatment last month as doctors battled to keep her and her baby alive after discovery she has previously undetected heart problems.

A team of 21 medics at Royal Berkshire Hospital, including consultants, anaesthetists and health professionals driven in from London’s Brompton Hospital, carried out an emergency cesarean using a heart by-pass machine owned by only five hospitals across the country.

Laura said: “It’s been a total roller coaster which started when I rang 111 because I was nine days overdue and had developed swollen ankles which I was worried could be deep vein thrombosis.

“I was advised to go to the Emergency Department and next thing was I’d been admitted and told I had serious heart problems which was a complete shock.”

Although successful in delivering the baby, the several hour-long procedure resulted in Laura being rushed to London’s Harefield Hospital where she spent two weeks in its ICU. At the same time, baby Martha, weighing a healthy 8lb 9oz, was looked after at the RBH’s special baby care unit before meeting her mother for the first time five days after her birth.

Laura was transferred back to the Royal Berks for further tests and observation before finally returning to her Wokingham home with baby Martha and husband Ben on Thursday, May, 29.

Reflecting on the unanticipated turn of events, Laura said: “It was such a big shock finding out about

Laura Damulira with her husband Ben and baby Martha – home safe and well

my heart problems, especially when I was so heavily pregnant.

“Now I really want to raise awareness of Peripartum Cardiomyopathy which is a condition that comes on during pregnancy, but the third-trimester symptoms disguise the fact there’s anything wrong.”

The new mum added: “The care I’ve had from all the doctors and nurses has been exceptional, especially when you realise just how amazingly rushed they are dealing with coronavirus.

“Martha is doing so well, it’s such a relief that she’s not

been affected by all the drama.”

And delighted by Laura’s recovery, obstetrician at RBH, Jill Ablett said: “It’s great to have such a positive outcome to what was a very serious and sudden situation.

“We had to do a lot of work to set up the theatre for all the medics and machinery we needed to keep

Laura and her unborn baby safe.

“This is a fantastic example of partnership working, not just within teams at our Trust, but from other hospitals too.

“We’re all so pleased there’s been this happy ending and Laura has gone home to enjoy family life with her new baby.”

What is peripartum cardiomyopathy?

Peripartum cardiomyopathy (or PPCM) happens during pregnancy, usually starting between the final month of pregnancy and the first five months after giving birth.

In PPCM the woman’s heart becomes enlarged and its pumping action weakened.

It is thought to affect around one in 5,000 to one in 10,000 women or one in every 2,000 women who give birth.

Although it can affect women at any age, it seems to be more common in those over 30.

It is not clear why PPCM develops, and it can develop in women with no history of heart conditions.

Symptoms include: � breathlessness, especially when resting or lying down; � a cough; � water retention (causing swelling in the ankles and tummy); � palpitations (a change in the heart rate or rhythm that the person may become aware of, particularly tachycardia – an abnormally fast heart rate); � extreme fatigue (as oxygen levels are low); � finding it had to exercise or be active; and � some women may also have swollen veins in their neck due to blood not being pumped efficiently

Harrison Audrey Sadly passed away on the 27th May at Royal Berkshire Hospital.

An amazing, kind and caring lady.

Determined to live life to the full, she will be truly missed by all who knew her.

Private funeral.

Donations to RNLI https://rnli.org/support-us/give-money/ donate-in-memory/donate

Thursday, June 11, 2020 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

After 16 years, new chair for Finchampstead FINCHAMPSTEAD Parish Council has elected a new chair.

At a virtual meeting held last month, Cllr Roland Cundy stood down after 16 years. His successor is Cllr Simon Weeks, who has served on the council for 15 years.

There have been some changes to committee chairmanships: Cllr Sylvia McDonald chairs amenities with Cllr Steve Bowers as deputy; Cllr Roger Woof is chair of finance and general management with Cllr Roland Cundy as deputy; Cllr Gordon Veitch chairs planning and Cllr Roger Marshallsay as deputy; rights of way is chaired

by Cllr David Cornish, helped by Cllr Rebecca Margetts as deputy; and roads and roads safety is headed by Cllr Steve Bromley with Cllr Roland Cundy serving as deputy.

The council also has working groups for allotments, climate change, consultation and communications, emergency response, human resources, neighbourhood development plan, and risk management.

The council is holding virtual meetings and these can be attended by the public.

For more details, log on to www.finchampstead-pc.gov.uk

NEWS | 5

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Taxi drivers plea for support after passenger numbers fall

By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokinghampaper.co.uk A TAXI driver went a whole day without picking up a single fare, highlighting the crisis facing the borough’s cabbies.

Now they are appealing for urgent help so they can survive the coronavirus pandemic.

And to ensure they are doing their bit to help others, the drivers have decided to defer the first fare increase for nearly a decade.

But they are worried that their livelihoods are at stake as the virus – and social distancing rules – has seen commuters stay at home or find alternative methods of transport.

Members of the Wokingham Borough Hackney Drivers Association are asking Wokingham Borough Council to take action to help them get through this time, arguing that simple short-term changes would make a big difference.

Muhammed Arshad, who chairs the Association, said that “Despite several requests to suspend our licensing matters and licensing renewals, charges and taxi MOTs, we are still desperately trying to get some relief.

“The taxi trade has been almost finished since early

Wokingham taxi drivers say they still have outgoings to pay while the virus has cut their trade Picture: Phil Creighton

March – even before the lockdown started.

“One of my colleagues rang and told me that he had worked a nine-hour day and left the Wokingham station taxi rank without taking a single fare.”

“Rather than giving us some relief, the council are forcing us to pay for non-urgent courses, while we are out of a job and not making any money. If we don’t, we’d face license suspensions.”

He added: “The taxi trade demanded a fare increase after nearly a decade, being at the bottom of fares league in the area, and a 20% rise was agreed in principle. But due to the financial hardship of the local community, we have offered to postpone these increases.”

Mr Arshad has written to Wokingham Borough Council’s chief executive, Susan Parsonage asking for assistance, saying that the Government’s self-employment salary scheme

is paid on declared profit and not gross income.

He wants the council to suspend all licensing matters including license and badge fees until the pandemic is over, a relaxation of the maximum age limits for vehicles and help given to allow drivers to consider greener replacements.

In the letter, he pointed out: “This year is particularly going to be challenging and very difficult particularly as all major public events/festivals and private ceremonies weddings/ parties have been cancelled and pubs and restaurants are expected to remain closed for a considerable time, which will directly affect our business”.

Wasaq Ahmad, who has been a taxi driver since 2004, said that the drivers have also had to “spend a bit more” on additional hygiene measures, but “earn next to nothing”.

“At the moment, we’re sitting

at home, all the expenses are going out but nothing is coming in,” he added. “We’re just asking for a bit of relaxation to the rules.”

“No one is going to the airport, trade is at zero, but we still have to pay our fees, we have to pay everything. That’s why we’re struggling.”

Cllr Parry Batth, executive member for environment and leisure at Wokingham Borough Council, said: “We’ve been supporting local businesses affected by Covid-19 in a number of ways.

“With the taxi trade, in partnership with the Public Protection Partnership, our measures include: ‘pausing’ vehicle and operator licences so people can save money, suspending fees and required medical tests to renew licenses until drivers resume work, reduced the cost of recovery fees by £40 for this and next year, and amended the Private Hire Operator schedule of fees to a per vehicle basis.

“We continue to use taxis for our Home to School transport, and taxi drivers can also apply for the financial help we’ve set up for all local businesses.

“We are open to consider other measures to help our businesses at this difficult time.”

Drug driver jailed A NEWBURY man has been sent to prison for 18 weeks in total after being caught drug-driving in Wokingham.

Daniel Paul Spencer, 30 and from Newtown Road, was stopped on London Road on December 28 last year. A test found that he had Benzoylecgonine, a form of cocaine, in his bloodstream.

Spencer pleaded guilty and was given an eight-week prison sentence for this crime when he appeared at Reading Magistrates Court on Monday, June 1.

At the same hearing, he pleaded guilty to stealing bacon worth £50 from a Co-op in Wokingham and jailed for six weeks. This theft, in conjunction with Tony Cook, took place on December 31 last year.

Spencer was jailed for three weeks for failing to surrender into custody at Reading Magistrates Court on January 23.

Spencer received a seven-day jail sentence for failing to comply with his supervision requirements as directed by the court on December 31, January 7 and 14.

He also pleaded guilty to stealing washing items from a Bracknell Co-op on January 24. He was jailed for six weeks for this.

And he received a three-week sentence for failing to appear at Reading Magistrates Court on February 10.

The overall sentence length is 18 weeks.

6 | NEWS

Match skills with charity shops A NEW scheme has been launched to help match charity shops with volunteers.

Stores will be allowed to reopen from Monday, June 15, but many will face a shortage of help as their regular volunteers will be shielding, or wanting to stay at home.

To help bridge the gap, Wil-U has created a new database that connects volunteers with their charity interest.

The company says that it built the app for free as it wants to provide innovative technology that revolutionises how communities connect with charities.

CEO of Wil-U, Richard Dorf, said: “We are delighted to have been able to help the charity retail sector recruit more volunteers through a simple but effective piece of technology.”

And Robin Osterley, chief executive of the CRA said: “Many of our 400 members will be able to access a new pool of volunteers.”

To sign up, log on to www.charityshopvolunteer. org.uk

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, June 11, 2020

Commerical property worth £1.1bn bought across borough in 2019 EXCLUSIVE

By TAZ USHER tusher@wokinghampaper.co.uk WOKINGHAM is one of the UK’s top commercial property spenders according to recent HM Land Registry data.

The ranking came as it was announced the borough had achieved a four-fold increase in spending from £265m in 2018, making it one of the 12 local authorities across England and Wales to see commercial buyers spend more than £1 billion on property transactions during 2019.

Alongside Birmingham, Wokingham is the only other local authority outside of Greater London to hit the benchmark.

Executive Member for Business and Economic Development at Wokingham Borough Council, Cllr Stuart Munro said: “We were incredibly pleased to see the latest figures from the property press showing such strong activity in the commercial property market across the borough.

“We firmly believe that Wokingham is one of the best places in the country to do

business and these figures appear to endorse this view “As a borough, a huge amount of work has gone into making sure Wokingham has a sustainable future and this is reflected in an increasingly wide demand for the boroughs real estate.”

Although a positive achievement locally, this is a drop from the 14 local authorities who passed the investment mark in 2018 and the 15 that did so in 2017.

The national decline, which saw overall annual investment in commercial property fall to £88.7 billion in England and Wales compared to the £101 billion spent the previous year, can be explained by the political and economic uncertainty caused by the moving Brexit deadlines.

And it is predicted that this downward trend will continue in 2020 and beyond as the full impact of the Covid-19 lockdown is felt.

The figures also highlight the need for the UK government’s “levelling up” strategy to deliver a tangible boost to regional economies, as the country grapples with potential exit and recovery strategies from the current coronavirus lockdown.

Commercial real estate business development manager for property data insight provider Search Acumen, Caroline Robinson said: “Our analysis reveals clear regional

disparities and also indicates how the government needs to do more to support regional developers and to encourage investment in regional infrastructure and real estate projects beyond London.

“During these uncertain times, we encourage firms to not take their eye off the future recovery and, in doing so, take stock of how better and more efficient ways of working will impact the commercial real estate sector’s financing and infrastructure development in the longerterm.”

And while cities including Manchester, Leeds, Birmingham and Nottingham all recorded over £1 billion of commercial buyer spending during 2018, only Birmingham passed the £1bn mark in 2019 based on the latest available data, and itself saw a reduction from £1.7 billion to £1.1 billion.

Other areas to see significant growth of commercial spending across England and Wales in 2019 included Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole; North Warwickshire; Somerset West and Taunton; West Suffolk; East Suffolk; and Folkestone and Hythe.

Virus forces Race For Life to go home IT RAISES thousands of pounds every year, but it is now sadly another victim of the pandemic.

Cancer Research UK had planned for more than 400 Race For Life gatherings, including a 5k, 10k and races for children.

Local versions would have been held in late September, but they have been cancelled due to restrictions on mass gatherings.

And coronavirus means that the charity thinks it could lose a quarter of its income this year.

Jenny Makin, Cancer Research UK spokesperson in Berkshire, said: “Since it began in 1994, Race for Life has raised more than £890m for Cancer

Research UK’s life-saving work.

“We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who has taken part and hope their support will continue.

“We know Race for Life is such a treasured part of the UK’s events calendar and it is with a heavy heart that for the first time in 27 years we have to announce that it won’t be taking place. The safety of our supporters, volunteers, suppliers and staff is however essential.

“We hope the Race for Life event series will be back bigger and stronger than ever in 2021.”

To compensate, Cancer

Research is asking people to hold their own Race For Life at home and says participants can choose whatever form of movement they wish including squats, skipping and even trampolining.

Ms Makin said: “From a run or 5K walk around the garden or local park to limbo in the living room, there is no wrong way to Race for Life at Home.

“We’re urging everyone – men women and children – to join our community and help raise vital funds.” � For more information, visit raceforlife.org or call 0300 123 0770.

Donations wanted for family charity A CHARITY that helps families receive clothes, toys and furniture for their children has issued a new list of requested donations.

First Days, which is based in Broadwater Lane, Hurst, is currently accepting items between 10am and noon on Saturdays. There is no need to book, but it is only taking the following items: Five-point harness high chairs, pressure fit stair gates and extenders, sterlisers (water or microwave only.

The following toys are wanted: jigsaws for all ages,

children and family games and baby comforters.

Clothes of all kinds wanted but particularly newborn outfits, school shoes, nonlogoed school uniform items, school uniforms for St Crispin's, The Holt, The Forest, Emmbrook, All Saints and Keep Hatch.

Bedding including Moses baskets, stands, cots and muslins.

Buggies, double buggies and buggy boards are wanted.

And they also want toiletries including barrier cream, nappy bags, size one nappies, top-to-

toe wash, shampoo for all ages, toothbrushes and toothpaste for all ages, and adult toiletries.

For larger items contact First Days before delivering.

They also ask that if you or a family member are feeling unwell not to come along.

Items should not be left outside the warehouse except on Saturday mornings.

First Days also has an Amazon wish list for those who want to donate but have nothing to give – amzn.to/ 2XwTUfy � For more details, log on to www.firstdays.net

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Thursday, June 11, 2020 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

STAY SAFE, SHOP LOCAL, SHOP WOKINGHAM BOROUGH SOCIAL DISTANCING SAVES LIVES Following the recent government announcement,

This is very exciting news for both our local

non-essential retailers will now be re-opening

businesses and our residents, but it is important

from Monday 15 June

that we don’t forget to keep safe and follow social

Shopping locally is great because it boosts our

distancing guidelines. Please look out for signage

local economy and brings communities closer

and advice when shopping.

together, especially at tough times like these.

Remain 2 metres away from other shoppers

Respect queueing systems in place

Wash/sanitise your hands regularly

If you feel unwell, please reconsider your visit

Government guidance also says that wearing a face covering can help reduce the spread of Covid-19. A face covering is different to a mask; search online for tips on homemade face coverings.

Why not cycle or walk to your local shops? It’s a great way to keep fit, make the most of the fresh air and keep socially distant too!

Visit www.myjourneywokingham.com for information on walking and cycling routes in the borough.

PLEASE BE CONSIDERATE OF OTHER SHOPPERS AND STAFF GIVE EACH OTHER SPACE

Make sure you stay up to date with the latest Coronavirus information @wokinghamboroughcouncil @wokinghamBC www.wokingham.gov.uk

BE KIND

8 | NEWS

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, June 11, 2020

NEED HELP? Call 0300 330 1189 (entering 0118 978 7258 if prompted) 9am-5pm Mon-Sat

Earley hub still here to help 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 more than 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.

Keith Wilson, Minister at Lower Earley Baptist Church, said: “We are still here to help, especially now that lockdown is easing we’re encouraging people to still give us a call or an email if they need help.

“We’re still delivering prescriptions, picking up shopping and here for a chat.”

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

More than 2,000 families helped by EXCLUSIVE

By ANGELA GARWOOD news@wokinghampaper.co.uk THE Wokingham Borough Community Response group is striving to meet the needs of the community during the coronavirus crisis.

Charities and organisations working together to form the group include Wokingham Borough Council, First Days Children’s Charity, Citizens Advice Wokingham, Link Visiting Scheme, Wokingham Foodbank, the Wokingham Volunteer Centre and Involve Community Services.

Over the last 11 weeks, Citizens Advice have helped more than 2,030 households through One Front Door, which signposts people in the appropriate direction to get the help they need.

Of those households, 607 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 plans to support people when lockdown is eased further.

The council has agreed that the One Front Door service will be available until the end of July at the very least.

Mr Morrison said: “We are continuing to deliver a high level of service.

“Anyone who needs help should still get in touch with us.”

Citizens Advice have also created a supermarket list – available on its 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 has 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.

Alternatively, email admin@citizensadvicewokingham.o rg.uk or visit citizensadvicewokingham.org.uk/ coronavirus/ and complete the online form.

Wokingham Volunteer Centre The Wokingham Volunteer Centre is helping vulnerable people get their prescriptions from pharmacies. With approximately 20-30 active volunteers across the borough, the organisation is working hard to ensure clients receive their medication as quickly as possible.

Staff report the centre has seen a reduction in requests to only five or six a day, as more people are turning to their local Covid-19 groups for help.

The service has delivered more than 799 prescriptions since they started and volunteers are now doing between one and two drives a week.

In addition to delivering prescriptions, the Volunteer Centre is slowly reintroducing other ways of supporting shielded individuals.

NEWS | 9

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Thursday, June 11, 2020 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

CORONAVIRUS: WOKINGHAM BOROUGH COMMUNITY HUBS

Hub is still open

the hub – and counting!

The Wokingham borough community hub has continued to provide emergency food parcels for residents Picture: Wokingham Community Hub

Last week its gardening service, Green and Tidy, started back up again. In small teams of two to five, volunteers worked on approximately 20 gardens over the week.

Helena Badger, volunteer development coordinator at The Wokingham Volunteer Centre, said: “It was really positive, the volunteers really enjoyed being out and about and the clients really appreciated it.

“Just being about to look out of their window and see the volunteers in their green t-shirts working in their gardens.

“They’re able to have a little chat through the window. They really look forward to our visits.

“One garden had grass at shoulder height so they had to tackle that.”

Discussions are currently taking place regarding starting up their transport scheme.

“Staff report they hope to be on the road again in two or three weeks and that drivers will be provided with PPE. The centre is working together with Wokingham Borough Council and reports that most referrals come from Citizens Advice, with some from the council, The Link Visiting Scheme and others through self-referral.

A number of charities are in need of help in the long-term, Mrs Badger said: “We’ve got a lot of charities looking to get long-term volunteers on board, we’ve had a really good response to Volunteers Week.”

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

The 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 two or three 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 appreciative shielded individuals have been.

One volunteer said: “I’m really enjoying chatting to my welfare clients. All calls have been well received and I have been told that they are very grateful for all the time and services we are providing at this challenging time.”

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, sealed 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 to be a Link volunteer visit linkvisiting.org or call 0118 979 8019 on weekdays from 9am until 5pm.

Wokingham 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 over 4,000 deliveries to 886 households over the last 11 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 Crispin’s 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: cereal/porridge, tea, coffee, pasta, rice, noodles, long life ready meals/tins, custard, rice pudding, tinned vegetables, tinned tomatoes, tinned fish, biscuits, shop bought cakes, snacks, cat and dog food, cat litter, soap and washing up liquid.

Any food donated must be unopened.

The hub is currently in need of the following for their Wellbeing Goody Bags: Puzzle books, sealed hand creams, wool 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: www.justgiving.com/ c a m p a i g n / 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: w w w. f a c e b o o k .c o m / wokinghamcommunityhub And the Wokingham Lions Club, who have raised more than £3,500 for the Wokingham Community distribution hub, hold a virtual pub quiz every Thursday at 8pm, visit facebook.com/Wokingham Lions/ for more information.

THE WORK of the community hub is to change over the next few weeks, as the borough council’s response to the coronavirus evolves.

The biggest change is that the hub will move location from St Crispin’s Leisure Centre to Cantley Park. But the council is keen to stress that the service remains open for vulnerable residents who continue to shield and need help with shopping, prescriptions and a listening ear.

Over the past 12 weeks, as we document on these pages, the council and charities have worked together to help residents in need. It has been a massive undertaking, but as lockdown eases and pressures on supermarket deliveries also reduces, there is a need to change this response.

And the venue change is partly due to schools reopening – St Crispin’s School uses the leisure centre’s facilities for some of its lessons.

Cllr Charles Margetts, executive member on Wokingham Borough Council for health and wellbeing, wanted to stress that the service remains open.

“The future is now becoming clearer,” he said. “The hub is just moving, with schools coming back and the leisure centre will reopen at some point in the future.

“But the hub is set up to run for the next few months. We’re here to support people who are sheltering.”

There would be changes though: “We have to start looking to the future, to a world where Covid-19 is under control or eliminated, and what that looks like.

“The hub will be staffed by Wokingham Borough Council staff as the volunteers are going back to work. There will still be volunteers for driving.

“We will move by the end of the month, and we have two plans, a nine-month one looking at the services we’re offering and growing the voluntary sector as well.

“Our three-year plan will take the good parts, such as the One Front Door initiative.”

Cllr Margetts said that prior to Covid-19, the council had been aware of 1,800 vulnerable residents – this is now 5,000.

“How do we manage that for the future? These are people who haven’t needed support (from us) until this virus has come along.”

And the council is also looking at the implications of moving to a track and trace routine.

However, he stressed: “The hub is very much continuing to run, we’re not withdrawing support, we very much want to keep it going.”

10 | BUSINESS

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, June 11, 2020

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Rhapsody for Mind GREAT minds, and mimes, think alike, as one Wokingham company has demonstrated.

Broad Street-based Prospect Estate Agents has celebrated 30 years of business with a charity fundraiser that Freddie Mercury himself would be proud of.

The musical montage, which is raising funds for mental health charity Mind, premiered last Friday on the company’s website.

Prospect’s rendition of Queen’s Bohemian Rhapsody features clips of employees miming the hit accompanied by the original track and vocals.

Managing director at Prospect Estate Agency, Mark Towell said: “To celebrate the business’ anniversary we wanted to do something really special in 2020 by hitting a huge milestone of donating £100,000 to charities over the last few years.”

“Our pledge at the start of this year was to give back for any house sale or let, but this was hit by Covid-19, hence why we felt we had to do something to

continue working towards this goal.

“Given the current situation and how people have had to deal with the lockdown measures in place, charities like Mind are playing a pivotal role in supporting people across the country.

“This left no doubt in our minds that we are doing this for the most appropriate charity of this moment.”

Filmed over Zoom, the quirky fundraiser sees employees showcase their dance moves, acting skills and pets in what is an amusing and no doubt unforgettable six minutes.

The company has currently achieved 17% of its target fund, £3,000, an amount it hopes will rise following the launch of its video.

Mr Towell added: “While this will never be a chart topper on iTunes, we people will support us in reaching our target for such a superb cause.”

To view the video log on to bit.ly/2XxUpG6 To donate to the cause visit www.justgiving.com/ fundraising/zoom-concert-formind.

Virus recovery tops agenda

By TAZ USHER tusher@wokinghampaper.co.uk ECONOMIC recovery on the other side of the coronavirus lockdown was top of the agenda for a discussion led by Local Enterprise Partnerships (LEPs) and government ministers last month.

The round table discussion, on Wednesday, May 27, looked at calls for the Government to support the growth economies of businesses in the South as part of the UK’s drive to recover from the pandemic.

Representatives from the country’s Local Enterprise Partnerships spoke directly to ministers including Simon Clarke, the minister for regional growth and local government, and Paul Scully, minister for small business, about the challenges they are facing, how they are implementing safe return to work and how they will lead the country’s economic recovery.

Chair Chris Brodie, from South East LEP, told ministers that the LEPs’ combined areas, which cover Essex, Thurrock,

Southend, Hertfordshire, Berkshire, Surrey, Hampshire, the Solent wider region, Sussex, Kent and Medway, would stand at the forefront of the UK’s Covid-19 recovery.

Mr Brodie said: “We see huge opportunity and potential for the south to be the key growth engine that can help our country grow our way out of the crisis.”

“Our knowledge-based high tech and growth sectors make us one of the most future focused and productive areas in the world.

“With the right investment we can lead the UK out of the crisis and assist the government in its vital agenda to sustain economic recovery and level up the left behind areas.

“We stand ready to play our part.”

Companies also highlighted a range of challenges being faced by businesses in the South, including concern over the increased debt burden and the urgent need for better digital connectivity.

Requests around the challenges faced by the visitor

economy, hospitality and events industries, as well as the UK’s film and television sector and aviation, maritime and travel sector were also raised.

The LEPs reminded ministers that the South serves the rest of the country as a world trading hub, with a significant percentage of the UK’s exports and imports passing through its airports and ports.

Mark Bretton, the chair of the LEP Network, said: “The value that local businesses will play in the next phase of recovery and rebuilding the local economy is critical.

“These LEP virtual roundtables with Ministers are an invaluable barometer of how businesses are really doing away from the headlines, and help us understand how employers are implementing the return to work guidelines.”

“Our national recovery is rooted in local recovery and a safe return to work.

“That’s why these roundtables are so

important, and LEPs forensic understanding of their local economies will be a key element in the vital recovery planning now underway across the country.”

Chris Brodie thanked the ministers for listening and providing rapid responses to business’ issues to date, saying he hoped the government would continue to invest for economic recovery and supporting levelling-up of some of the region’s most deprived areas.

Minister for regional growth and local government, Simon Clarke MP said: “The coronavirus pandemic will leave a lasting impact on all our regions.

“We are going to overcome these challenges and it is fundamental that we understand local concerns so that we can help our regions expediate the restart of their economies.

Our determination to level up the country is only reinforced by the scale of the challenge we now confront.”

Where there’s a will, there’s Tyla A WOKINGHAM-based law firm has announced a new appointment in its wills and inheritance team.

Clifton Ingram LLP, which has offices in Broad Street and also in Reading, is welcoming solicitor Tyla Robins. She will work on wills, probate and powers of attorney arrangements.

Stephanie Rose, partner for

the firm’s wills and inheritance team, was delighted to welcome Tyla, who has spent the last three-and-a-half years as a qualified private client solicitor for a London firm.

“We’re really looking forward to Tyla joining,” she said. “With increasing

Furlough scheme reminder

Home working benefits

EMPLOYERS are being reminded that the Government’s Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS) will be closed to new entrants from Tuesday, June 30.

The final date to furlough an employee for the first time was yesterday – Wednesday, June 10.

This enables the minimum three-week furlough period to be completed by the end of this month. From that point on, employers will have until July 31 to make any claims in respect of the period to June 30.

More details on the scheme and how to apply is available at www.gov.uk/guidance/claimfor-wages-through-thecoronavirus-job-retentionscheme

WORKING from home has benefits worth keeping according to new research conducted by the UK Contact Centre Forum.

The new data, published last week by leading cloud contact centre Content Guru, revealed the significant advantages remote working offers businesses in terms of productivity and work-life balance.

It revealed that when comparing home-based with office-based contact centre operations, 75% of organisations reported lower attrition, 61% said productivity is better, and 54% say absenteeism is better among those working at home.

Employees also signalled a preference for remote working, with 74% saying they have a better work-life-balance compared to being in an office.

demand at present Tyla’s previous experience will enable her to start helping our clients immediately.”

Clifton Ingram’s Tax Planning, Wills & Probate, Tax & Trusts team is one of the largest in the Thames Valley and is ranked in the Legal 500.

The absence of travel-towork costs was favoured by 86% of participants, with 81% saying they have recovered time wasted travelling to and from work.

Deputy CEO and co-founder of Content Guru, Martin Taylor said: “It’s clear that we are seeing the model for the future of the contact centre industry emerge in real time.”

The report also highlighted the importance of implementing proper security and compliance measures when deploying remote contact centre staff.

Mr Taylor added: “Key to the success of home-working is the ability of employers to establish the infrastructure agents need quickly and efficiently.”. � For more information about the survey log on to bit.ly/36YmiKw

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BOTTLES UP: Residents spearhead new scheme to pick up those empties

Doorstep glass collection service launched across the borough EXCLUSIVE

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokinghampaper.co.uk IT’S been called for from residents for years – and is up there with wheelie bins as a talking point. Now it’s reality.

A new glass collection service has been launched to help the borough recycle and reduce trips to the bottle banks.

Wokingham resident David Nice said he was inspired to set up The Glass Company after learning that his parents had started to find it harder to take their empties to the banks, often located in supermarkets and street corners.

“The idea initially started when my partner and I moved into our first house,” said Mr Nice.

“With both of us working and having a little boy, we soon discovered the inconvenience of a trip to the bottle bank.

“More importantly, this task was becoming unachievable for our ageing parents.

“The broken glass, heavy boxes and time spent searching for bottle banks with space meant that we ended up doing the trip for three households.”

SOLUTION

And he said that he wanted to find a solution, knowing that the borough council currently doesn’t offer a kerbside collection service, despite collecting food waste and other recycling.

“After researching it became clear that a better and more efficient way of disposing of household glass was needed and that the changes needed to start at home in our community,” Mr Nice said.

Hence the launch of The Glass Company, which provides a monthly glass collection service for the borough and surrounding areas, with participants receiving a 60 litre box to store their bottles and jars in.

There is a fee for the service and it cannot collect mirrors, Pyrex glass and light bulbs.

It also plans to gift 10% of profits to the council to encourage recycling schemes.

“As recyclable packaging is becoming more prominent and consciousness of sustainability increases there is a growing increase in glass packaged items,” continued Mr Nice.

“Glass can be recycled endlessly without loss in quality or purity, however recycling rates of glass aren’t keeping up with demand.

“The average family uses 500 glass bottles and jars every year, yet five or six are thrown away and not recycled, purely out of inconvenience.

This heavily impacts our environment and carbon footprint.”

Lockdown has been a tricky time for many local businesses, but the Glass Company is able to offer a contactless service.

Mr Nice said: “The delivery of boxes has taken place with careful consideration of PPE and communication with households.

“For some more vulnerable customers, this service has allowed them to remain in isolation and has removed the need for another trip outside of their homes.” � For more information, visit: theglasscompany.org

Stan Hetherington tests the new bike pump installed in Elms Field, watched by Bikeathon committee members (from left): Jean Alder, Royce Murphy and Joanne Hart, with Jill Bissll from MyJourney and Natalie Wilson from Wokingham Cycle Club Picture: Phil Creighton

Cyclists can come up for air CYCLISTS who have rediscovered their love for life on two wheels will be pumped to learn that a new facility has been installed in Wokingham town centre.

Members of the Wokingham Bikeathon committee gathered socially distanced of course - to celebrate the launch of a new bike pump by the Everyman cinema in Elms Field.

And it is hoping that borough residents who are missing out of this year’s Bikeathon due to restrictions on public gatherings will take part in their own ride.

The team have created a Ride Your Own Bikeathon route, which

runs for 17 miles around Hurst and Wokingham. Participants can cycle it this month or next, and then let the Bikeathon team know by email.

Everyone who completes the course is entitled to a certificate.

It starts from Elms Field, and participants are being urged to take a selfie by the bike pump, and spot prizes will be awarded for the best photos along the route.

A spokesperson said: “The Wokingham Bikeathon committee are proud to have sponsored the installation of a bicycle pump in Elms Field.

“Last year, the Bikeathon raised money from entries and is in the

process of donating more than £9,000 to charities including Smart Works Reading, Sport in Mind, Headway Thames Valley, Bike the UK for MS, PACT, Daisy’s Dream, and Ehler Danlos Suppport UK.” Bikeathon has been running well pedalling - since 2009 with 143 riders. Launched by keen cyclist Stan Hetherington and run by volunteers, it has grown with more than 800 riders of all abilities taking part. It is supported by local businesses, charities and organisations. � For more details and to register, search for its Facebook page or visit: wokinghambikeathon.co.uk

No agreement on Cummings letter

Anti-social behaviour closes home

TWYFORD Parish Council couldn’t reach agreement on whether to send a letter to the Government complaining about the behaviour of Dominic Cummings.

At its virtual meeting on Tuesday, June 2, the committee discussed whether they should write a missive that was critical of the special advisor’s trip to

A HOME in Norreys Avenue has been closed for three months following a court order issued by Reading Magistrates Court.

Thames Valley Police applied for the closure order in pursuant to section 80 of the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014.

Durham while the country was on lockdown.

The vote was six in favour, six against and there were two abstentions.

The chair, Roy Mantel, felt that he did not want to use his casting vote when there was not a clear majority.

As a result the proposal failed.

The order was granted when magistrates met at a hearing on Monday, June 1.

Under the terms, access is prohibited with the exception of three members of the same family, police officers, emergency services and authorised personnel from Wokingham Borough Council.

NEWS | 11

12 | NEWS

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, June 11, 2020

Butts it all about, Alfie?

GARDENERS are being asked to butt in as the lack of recent rainfall has caused gardens to dry up.

South East Water is asking residents to install water butts to capture rain as it falls.

Although the lockdown period has been one of the driest spells on record, the wet stuff has started to fall out of the sky again over the past week.

And the water company says that the average rainfall in the South East means that there’s enough of the wet stuff to fill each butt up to 450 times a year.

The water can be used for a variety of jobs in addition to keeping thirsty plants alive during the hotter weather we have been experiencing.

And along with washing cars, it can be used to fill ponds, clean gutters of winter debris or wash down garden furniture and patios.

South East Water saves that using butts to collect rainfall, residents can use the water to look after their plants, fill ponds, clean garden furniture and give the car a wash and brush-up

Douglas Whitfield, operations director at South East Water, said: “With some welcome rain forecast we can look forward to water butts filling up again.

“It is well known that plants thrive on rainwater but the

water can be used for chores outside too.

“Using the contents of a water butt doesn’t take water from the ground or rivers and it doesn’t need treating or pumping, so no energy has been used in its supply.”

Gardeners heading out to buy their plants are being asked to select ones that need less watering by looking for the full sun on the plants' labels or by checking out a list of plants on the Royal Horticultural Society’s website rhs.org.uk.

Ronald and Shirley Ellis in 1955 (top) and in recent years (above)

65 years on, and still in love TODAY is a special day for two Wokingham Paper readers – it’s their 65th wedding anniversary.

Sadly the coronavirus means that they can’t celebrate together.

In 1955, Ronald and Shirley Ellis married in Loughton, Essex The couple moved to Wokingham 30 years ago.

But instead of having a lavish celebration to mark their blue sapphire anniversary, Ronald will not be able to visit his wife in person for medical reasons.

Mrs Ellis suffered a severe stroke in

November 2018, and is now being looked after in a nursing home.

Normally, the lovebirds are together every daytime – devoted Mr Ellis makes daily visits between 9.30am and 3pm, but lockdown means that they have been forced apart.

It’s not game over for the couple who love to keep in touch: modern technology means they can still see each other using the Zoom videoconferencing app.

Mr Ellis who is 87, and Mrs Ellis who is 85 have two daughters, two granddaughters and two great grandsons.

Traffic wardens now giving fines TRAFFIC wardens are now issuing tickets to vehicles parking illegally.

At the end of last month, Wokingham Borough Council announced that their parking enforcement officers would once again start patrolling blue badge bays and car parks.

But instead of giving out fines, they were to slap warnings on motorists' windows instead.

This was intended to be a temporary measure to remind residents to park pretty.

Now they are back to giving out the penalty notices.

In addition to clocking motorists who stay over their allotted time in car parks, they will look out for dangerous and obstructive parking and parking on double yellow lines.

Nirvana gets permission to build new hotel and gym

By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokinghampaper.co.uk A POPULAR gym is to be replaced with a 70-bedroom hotel after planning permission was granted last month.

Nirvana Spa won approval for its plans to demolish the Pulse 8 gym, which closed at Christmas, and build the new complex, which will include a gym and outdoor swimming pool.

The gym would not be open to the general public but be members only.

The spa’s owners said that it is delighted at the news, which it says will boost employment to the borough and improve its facilities.

A previous proposal had been turned down in March last year.

This new application had been reduced in height with one storey removed. As a result, it is a wider structure with an

increased level of ground floor space.

Planners noted: “The reduction in height and widening of the proposed structure towards the existing spa facilities results in the building being read as one coherent development and overall, has an improved relationship with the existing development on the site.”

The plans had been objected to by Winnersh Parish Council, who expressed concerns over noise and light pollution, as well as concerns over the hours of construction.

Cllr Prue Bray also wanted to know how the loss of Pulse8 would be made up, officers pointed out that “The proposal incorporates an enlarged gymnasium at basement level which, when including the external swimming pool”. This, they said, was significantly larger than the existing gym.

Residents also raised concerns over

the need for a hotel in the village, but planners said that it “would not compete with hotels located in (Wokingham) town centre”.

One of the conditions of the plan is that a rooftop garden would close at 9pm daily.

In a statement, a spokesperson for Nirvana said: “We are delighted to have been granted planning permission for our accommodation and new gym facilities.

“This exciting new development, with 70 bedrooms and a state of the art gym will not only enhance our offering at Nirvana Spa it will also bring significant employment opportunities to the local area.

“While we look forward to this new venture, at the moment we are firmly focused on reopening the spa and fitness facilities for the enjoyment of our members and guests.”

Arrests in drug raids FIVE people have been arrested in connection with the supply of class A drugs in Three Mile Cross and Reading.

Thames Valley Police said that it executed a number of warrants on Tuesday, June 9, at a range of locations across the Thames Valley and, in doing so, seized large quantities of class A drugs.

Trishtan Douglin, aged 34, of no fixed abode, has been charged with a number of offences.

These are: possession with intent to supply class A drugs (crack cocaine, cocaine and heroin), possession of a class B drug (cannabis), and two counts of acquiring, using or possessing criminal property.

Douglin was remanded in custody to appear at Reading Magistrates’ Court .yesterday morning.

Three men and a woman, all aged in their thirties and from Reading, were also arrested following the execution of these warrants and all have been released on police bail.

Detective Chief Inspector Rich Jarvis, of the Priority Crime Team based at Reading police station, said: “A series of warrants were conducted on Tuesday and we have arrested a number of people in connection with these.”

They added: “One man has been charged.”

It is hoped that people will come forward if they suspect any similar incidents in their neighbourhoods.

“We would always urge the public to contact Thames Valley Police on 101 or report anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 if they have any information related to crime in our communities.”

MP’s role in tackling racism MILLIONS of protests have broken out across the globe as anger towards the killing of George Flloyd boils over.

Black Lives Matter demonstrations began after a video of Mr Floyd’s death went viral.

The shocking clip, showing how a Minneapolis police officer knelt on the unarmed black man’s neck until he stopped breathing, was filmed on Monday, May 25 and has since sparked worldwide outrage.

Across the UK, tens of thousands of protestors have gathered in opposition to racial injustice, resulting in areas including London’s Parliament Square, Trafalgar Square and Hyde Park being swarmed.

And while most activity has remained peaceful, in the form of painted signs, chants and speeches, clashes with police and incidents, such as the tearing down of a slave trader’s statue in Bristol, have occurred.

Anti-racism campaigning is also making its impact felt on a local level, with many residents taking action in the form of petitions calling for changes to school curriculum and letters to their local MPs. And one constituent, who emailed Wokingham MP Sir John Redwood about the actions he is taking to eradicate racism in the borough, has expressed their frustration towards the leader’s short reply.

She said: “I sent him Sir John an email raising many questions including what he was doing to support the black lives within his community, and why he had not yet spoken out about the death of George Floyd.”

“To say that his response was disappointing would be a gross understatement; not only did he ignore many of the questions I raised, he offered no examples of how he would be acting to support the Black Lives Matter movement.”

Sir John has since responded saying: “I condemn racism in all its guises and have helped legislate to make it a crime in the UK. “I always take up any cases where it plays a role in my constituency when they are brought to my attention.”

Open day goes online A COLLEGE is switching its open days to the online world, as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.

Activate Learning is planning a showcase of courses and options available at Bracknell and Wokingham College.

The online session will run from 9.30am to 12.30pm on Saturday.

Attendees will be able to watch presentations about Activate Learning and take part in subjectspecific talks.

Prospective students can also speak with staff to learn more about courses.

It will use the Microsoft Teams Live software and anyone who would like to attend will need to register in advance.

For more details, log on to bit.ly/303XxLF

NEWS | 13

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Thursday, June 11, 2020 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

Hurst Country Show plans epic weekend Hurst Show and Country Fayre will hold a virtual event this year, bringing the best of the popular event to homes across the village

By SUE CORCORAN news@wokinghampaper.co.uk HURST Show and Country Fayre has announced its first ever virtual show.

Many events are already open to enjoy on social media.

The traditional show had to be cancelled due to Covid-19.

Instead, the organisers hope the show’s virtual equivalent will still fundraise for causes including Alexander Devine Hospice and Wokingham charity Just Around the Corner, as well as St Nicholas CofE Primary School and Hurst Pre-school, Scouts and Guides.

Chairperson Suzy Turner said: “We are conscious that now more than ever, local good causes are struggling for funding.

“Last year the show donated over £15,000 so we wanted to do something towards raising an equivalent amount.

“We have kicked off the fundraising with a £5,000 donation from show funds and hope to make up the £10,000 shortfall through the virtual show.

“We also hope that the virtual show enables people to have some fun and celebrate the fantastic community spirit shown during lockdown.”

People from all over the area are invited to take part in online and socially distanced events all over June, culminating in what would have been the show weekend, June 27 and 28. These include: � Hobby horse competition – households are encouraged to make and display their own hobbyhorses, with online voting and the overall winner judged

by BBC sports presenter, Mike Bushell. � Virtual classic vehicle and dog shows – enter your “Pride and Joy”, whether it has wheels or a waggy tail, into the competition on Facebook and encourage friends to vote for your entry. � Virtual market – browse the online shops of stallholders who regularly support the show. � Village Souvenir Magazine – a magazine kindly produced

by Alexis Jaworski Photography capturing photographs and memories of community spirit.

Sponsorship opportunities are available. � Over the show weekend itself, a timetable of interactive events from show favourites will take place on Facebook, including sing-a-longs with Ukuladies Plus One and a virtual session with Just Around the Corner.

� Around Hurst, there will be displays of art, the popular church bookstall and Jackie and Malcolm Phillips’ plant stall. An ice cream van will tour. Visitors are reminded to observe social distancing measures while enjoying these. � Hurst caterers, The Castle Inn and Vintage Hog Roast, are providing paella and also hog roast rolls, both with accompaniments. Each costs £25 for a family of four.

The ordering hotline is 07516 306505.

Food can be collected from the pub between noon and 6pm on both days.

An artisan beers, cider and ale collection and a drive through service is also being offered.

Details are at @vintagehogroast � There will even be an online disco on the Saturday night provided by local DJ, Thames Valley Discos.

Most events are free to participate in, but donations towards the show are kindly requested by visiting w w w. j u s t g i v i n g . c o m / crowdfunding/hurst-show. � For the latest details of what’s on, or to get involved as a sponsor or stallholder, follow the Hurst Show on Facebook page, Twitter and/or Instagram, or visit www.hurstshow.uk/

Fears over end of summer meals plan

By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokinghampaper.co.uk STOPPING free school meals during the summer holidays will be a massive blow according to a Labour councillor.

Last week, Government ministers announced that the national voucher scheme that helps poorer families feed their children when they’re unable to have school dinners, is to be ended in July.

Across England, 1.3 million children have benefited from the scheme.

Cllr Rachel Burgess, who

represents Norreys ward on Wokingham Borough Council, said that families are already facing financial difficulties due to the coronavirus pandemic. And last week, we revealed that Wokingham’s foodbank had seen a 400% increase in demand year-onyear.

“The news that Free School Meals are being stopped over the summer holidays will come as a massive blow to many families in Wokingham,” Cllr Burgess said.

“As families struggle to put food on the table, the Tories are stopping

a scheme that has become a lifeline for many.”

She added that the pandemic had seen many more children descend into poverty, as numerous families have faced unexpected financial insecurity.

“As Foodbank use in Wokingham increases, and demand for other community charities soars, the Tories are choosing to cut food for the poorest children,” she continued.

“Poverty is not inevitable – it is a result of poor government policy.

“We are lucky in Wokingham to

have a wealth of amazing charities and volunteers that have sprung up to try and fill the gap left by 10 years of austerity, such as the fantastic Grub Club that runs in Norreys.

“But the mere fact that we need a Foodbank and a Grub Club in the first place tells you something is very wrong, and is testament to this government’s terrible record on child poverty.”

She added: “This decision should be reversed straight away.

“No child should go to bed hungry.

“Our children deserve better.”

mattrodda Westminster diary

Appalled by killing

S

OME important and searching questions have been asked about equality in Britain, and in our local community during the last few days.

The killing of George Floyd was absolutely appalling.

I am strongly opposed to racism and I believe that people should be treated equally and that human rights should be respected.

This apparently racist murder by a group of White police officers needs to be investigated urgently and I hope that the case will be treated with the seriousness it deserves, both by the police and the courts in Minnesota.

It is difficult to imagine the effect of this on Mr Floyd’s family. It is also clear that the attack has deeply affected local residents in Minneapolis and the Black Community in the United States, this country and around the world.

Like many people, my thoughts are with the Floyd family and the Black Community. I would like to offer my support at this difficult time.

The murder and subsequent protests have also highlighted deep rooted inequality in the United States and also in this country. I understand the outrage felt about George Floyd’s murder.

I hope that the Government and society as a whole will listen to the Black Community and strengthen efforts to tackle racism at home and abroad.

Given the seriousness of the issue and the longer term deep seated problems of inequality, I hope that the Government will now condemn Donald Trump’s response to the killing of Mr Floyd.

I am also concerned about the use of riot control measures in the United States. I support the Shadow Trade Secretary, Emily Thornberry, who has demanded that the Government suspend the sale of riot control equipment to the US.

Discriminated It is also important to remember that the case follows a number of troubling developments in Britain in recent years, such as the Windrush Scandal, the Grenfell Disaster and more recently the greater number of deaths from corona virus among Black and Ethnic Minority residents.

People in our community have been discriminated against in the Windrush Scandal, which was a product of the hostile environment created by the Home Office and the Government. I have worked with councillors and other community campaigners to take up cases, challenge wrongful decisions and call for compensation paid to those who have been mistreated.

But, it is important to remember that this scandal should never have happened in the first place and some searching questions need to be asked about how it was allowed to take place.

Many of the people affected by the Grenfell disaster were from Ethnic Minorities, and I hope the inquiry will explain how and why dangerous cladding was approved for use on the tower. I’m calling for a much stronger response from the Government to the problem of dangerous cladding on flats and other properties, which affects hundreds of people in Berkshire, a large number of whom are from Black or Ethnic Minority communities.

I am also very concerned about the higher death rate from the coronavirus among Black and Minority Communities. I believe there needs to be a much more detailed investigation to understand why this is the case and to urgently see what measures can be taken.

Any attacks, including spitting, which are linked to the virus, should be treated very seriously. I should add that I was appalled by the attack on Belly Mujinga and I have discussed this with her trade union and supported their efforts to raise this with the Government.

As well as these immediate issues, there is also a real need to improve many people’s understanding of inequality. I believe there should be a greater focus on teaching Black History and World History in schools and more needs to be done to raise awareness among the community as a whole.

Councils, community organisations and local schools have done some important work on this and should be commended for raising awareness of Black History and I know from my own children how well Black History can been taught in local schools.

However, there is much more that needs to be done.

14 | VIEWPOINTS

THEWOKINGHAMPAPER NEWS WITH A HEART FOR THE BOROUGH

Black Lives Matter, no question that they do THE big issue of the week is the Black Lives Matter.

There can be no question that they do.

Most of us have been appalled at the death of George Floyd in a moment of misjudgement by police officers. That it is not an isolated case is what shames us all.

It is not unique to the United States, it is a stain on us here.

And that some people have been angry at the protests that have followed is equally concerning.

All live matter some quarters say. Yes, they do, but that ignores what is being said by the protesters.

That statue in Bristol should have stayed put, some say. Well, people have been trying to remove it for years and failing. It is good that it is gone.

And the protesters will lead to a second wave of the coronavirus. Yes, it quite possibly will. But we need to ask ourselves why did so many take to the streets at a time of a global emergency to show how they felt?

This is not a party political issue. This is not a cause or a campaign. It’s not just about one man. It’s about ensuring that the inequality and discrimination that black people face is ended, once and for all.

We all have a duty to do better. We have to ensure that this is a watershed moment in world history that will never be erased.

We have to lead by example and we have to set any prejudices we have aside. #BlackLivesMatter

CHURCH NOTES

Why rainbows?

O

NE cannot fail to notice the rainbows adorning shop windows, houses, pavements and even clothes at the moment.

Someone recently asked me ‘why rainbows?’

Rainbows are used as a sign of hope in many different cultures. Of course in our Christian culture, rainbows are a sign sent from God to Noah in Genesis as a promise of better times ahead. ‘God put the rainbow in the sky as a sign of His promise that He would never again destroy the earth with flood’ Genesis 9:13-17.

In Greco-Roman mythology a rainbow is considered to be a path between heaven and earth.

Since 1978, some 42 years prior to the current Covid-19 pandemic, rainbows were and still are used as a symbol of inclusivity and diversity. The rainbow was first used on a flag to depict pride, defiance and hope for a world of acceptance and respect.

Whatever you believe rainbows symbolise, we are all moved to see them as a gift, a sign of hope, love and grace to everyone.

A sign sent from God showing his love for all and a reminder that we are all equal in his eyes and loved by him unconditionally regardless of our gifts, our beliefs, our race, our sexuality or job.

Although rainbows are a perfect arc when seen by us, from above they are actually a fully formed circle, how appropriate then that God’s undying, love surrounds us at all times.

Next time you notice a rainbow in a window, remember how much God loves you whoever you are, unconditionally.

Claire Knight is the church and community outreach team leader at Wokingham Methodist Church, writing on behalf of Churches Together in Wokingham

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Your letters

Send your thoughts to letters@wokinghampaper.co.uk

WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, June 11, 2020 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

Solidarity with Black Lives Matter Forty-six-year-old African-American died in police custody in Minneapolis on Monday, May 25, and on Wednesday last week, Britons in Hyde Park “took the knee” in tribute to that man, George Floyd, and other victims of racism.

Over the last few weeks, communities from all backgrounds in Wokingham have come together to support and help each other in this time of crisis. Kindness and support have been our watchword. This reminds me, why Wokingham is such a special place.

Our diverse community stands in solidarity with the Black Lives Matter campaign. The tragic death of George Floyd in America is a reminder how much racial injustice is an outrage against humanity. We in Wokingham are reminded to champion acceptance and inclusivity and support a zerotolerance approach towards any form of prejudice, be that against ethnic minorities, Islamophobia, antisemitism or any form of sexism. Including abuse like Windrush.

The Liberal Democrats in Wokingham are positively promoting equality and working in our communities so we can all tackle these challenges together.

Black lives matter because all lives matter.

Cllr Tahir Maher, Lib Dem councillor for Maiden Erlegh, Wokingham Borough Council

Death penalty is needed Understandable, though the last week’s mass demonstrations, claiming that, ‘Black Lives Matter’, are – in the wake of the outrageous murder of a black man, in America, I am not convinced that racist attitudes, are changed, by demonstrations.

To achieve, genuinely equal, treatment, of people of all races, and cultures, one must change laws.

A step in the right direction, would be to restore the Death Penalty, for murder – so that it applied in all the United States of America, and here, in Great Britain, as well.

Never did anything other, than that ancient principle, of ‘A life for a life’, demonstrate better, that all human lives, are of equal value.

Demonstrations, or no demonstrations, you will continue to encounter, racist attitudes, in all areas of life, but, fairer laws, will, at least, prevent people, from putting discrimination, into practice.

One of our members, has actually, lived, and worked, in the Southern States of America, for a time, and he says that you have to be there, to witness the degree, of racism, that is prevalent, and the way in which, black people, are discriminated against, and ill-treated, both, by the police, and, more widely, in the general community.

I don’t doubt it.

People who are actually living, in a place, always have a better grasp of its culture, than do outsiders. So, while I am not happy, to see huge masses of people, demonstrating, and thus, risking spreading the coronavirus, since the threat of further infection, is still with us, I would be very happy, to

From the NHS to you, a great big THANK YOU I’m writing this in the name of the 5,500 people who work with me at the Royal Berkshire NHS Foundation Trust – and if they could add their names to the end of the letter I know they all would, because each and every one of us has been so grateful for the outpouring of support shown during the coronavirus outbreak.

The generosity of local people, young and old, community groups, religious organisations, pubs and restaurants, volunteers, businesses, schools and the University of Reading, charitable trusts and our other partners across Berkshire has been truly amazing. It’s touched on the lives of everyone who works for the Trust as well as our patients and their families.

What’s been so humbling is that the support hasn’t just been a ‘one-off’ – people’s donations, offers of help, voluntary work and the rest has just kept on coming at a time when all these people are worried about the virus, how it could affect them and loved ones.

It’s hard to single out some of the highlights since every one of them, has been a genuine act of

kindness from big-hearted people who want to show their appreciation to our fantastic staff.

I’m talking here about the volunteers running the wellbeing centre at the hospital, often at weekends and late into the evening so our teams can enjoy a break, the people delivering medicines and equipment to our other healthcare sites around the county, those collecting and cleaning wheelchairs, people sewing face coverings and scrub bags, companies donating visors and ear protectors, other donating iPads so isolated patients have some contact with their families, teams delivering donated goody bags for the wards, people fundraising from

see the convicted murderer, of George Floyd, receive Capital Punishment.

Equally, I would be happy to see, anyone’s convicted murderer, of any race or culture, thus executed.

Pam Jenkinson, The Wokingham Crisis House

Scrutiny v criticism While I appreciate that criticism of the Tory government may be hard for some to accept, it is sadly necessary when they fail to hold themselves to account, preferring instead to reward the unpleasant and incompetent.

Chris Grayling has, as Johnson would put it, ‘spaffed’ vast amounts of taxpayers cash up the wall and been rewarded with one plum job after another. Priti Patel breached the ministerial code and was rewarded with the job of Home Secretary.

Johnson has of course used racist, homophobic and Islamophobic language, in between talking about having people beaten up and lying about the EU, and is now leading the party.

While decent people may have voted Conservative in the past, the party has changed beyond all

home, and all the many, many welcome donations of flowers, hot food, toiletries, Easter eggs, drinks, cakes – the list is endless.

Then there’s the schools, University of Reading and businesses who have worked with clinicians and financially supported the development of masks, and Reading School which generously allowed us to set up pop-up staff accommodation and a supermarket to ease the burden on our teams.

Each and every one of these acts of kindness, along with the weekly clap for carers and the rainbow pictures have been a big boost to our staff.

This pandemic has put enormous pressure on

recognition in recent years. As the former Father of the House Ken Clarke – one of 21 MPs expelled for trying to prevent the damage of a no-deal Brexit – put it, the modern Tory party is ‘the Brexit Party, rebadged’, with no principles beyond self-interest and the hardest of all possible Brexits, regardless of the damage that this will do to the country.

For example, despite Michael Gove claiming the UK would back out of any deal that required it to accept lower standards, the recent agriculture bill lacks any commitment or means of upholding British farming production standards in international trade negotiations.

Perhaps our farming industry and food standards will be the latest casualty of Brexit.

Dr Peter Hornsby, Wokingham

Pedal power I am a Wokingham resident since 2005 and transport professional, www.reedmobility.co.uk.

I am writing to highlight concerns I have about Wokingham’s response to the urgent need to provide safe facilities for walking

everyone (not just the NHS).

People are worried about their livelihoods, children’s education and vulnerable relatives and friends and this is what makes their show of support all the more remarkable and appreciated.

I would also like to pay a public tribute here to my amazing Trust teams.

Wokingham.Today readers won’t have witnessed the unbelievable amount of work that’s gone on behind the scenes as staff strive to keep our patients and communities safe.

I’ve seen it day after day and I’m in awe at what they’ve achieved. Thank you.

Steve McManus, Chief Executive, Royal Berkshire NHS Foundation Trust

and cycling in the borough.

The Covid-19 crisis has had a terrible impact on many people’s lives and livelihoods. A thin silver lining to this cloud has been the quieter roads and cleaner air that has seen many enjoy walking and cycling to a greater extent than they would have felt comfortable previously. This includes the fantastic sight of many family groups with young children taking to the roads for bike rides.

To facilitate walking and cycling as part of the response to Covid-19 and recognising the urgent need to decarbonise transportation and the role that active travel can play in supporting physical and mental health, the Government has provided funds to allow councils to take steps to close roads to motorised traffic, to install segregated cycle lanes and to widen footways (see www.forbes.com/sites/carltonreid/ 2020/05/29/department-for-transportletter-to-uk-councils-close-main-roadsto-cars-reallocate-road-space-to-cyclistspedestrians/).

Many large city councils have grasped this opportunity such as Liverpool and Manchester but also more rural councils such as Devon, Cheshire and Calderdale.

I am concerned by the lack of similar

Thursday, June 11, 2020 WOKINGHAM.TODAY action in Wokingham – a town and borough with poor provision for active travel at present and that could benefit hugely from such measures to reduce congestion, improve air quality and encourage healthy travel.

I am aware that the council is pushing ahead with the A329 cycleway but this is a scheme that has been in the works for years and has a design that is deeply compromised.

With the many new housing developments emerging on the outskirts of the town, there is a window of opportunity to embed sustainable transport behaviours that could positively transform travel in the region before old habits return but it needs urgent action now.

Nick Reed, Wokingham

Going nowhere The current EU trade deal negotiations are getting nowhere. To distract the EU and its member states now from handling the on-going threat of Covid-19 will prove counter-productive for any meaningful future deal between us.

We are facing the worst recession in 300 years; our economy could take at least three years to recover. Up to five million people could lose their jobs in the UK. Despite this, Brexiter ministers and the ERG insist on compounding this collapse with a catastrophic, ideological, No-Deal Brexit on December 31.

Yet recent polling indicates two thirds of the British public want the government to extend the negotiating period beyond the end of this year. This includes half of all “leave” supporters.

Covid-19 is a global pandemic. Our Government should concentrate on the current crisis and avoid all distractions, especially a damaging No-Deal Brexit nobody voted for. Covid-19 makes a nonsense of the exit timetable. Time and resources are very short for a future EU trade deal. Instead, the Government should help solve shared problems of Covid-19 with our European colleagues.

The Government must, belatedly, learn the lessons of the Cygnus report (2017) on pandemic preparedness.

It should listen to the Opposition parties, our EU friends, the IMF, the CBI, the British Chambers of Commerce, and our business leaders and scientists.

It must request an immediate extension to the Brexit trade talks.

This is not a move to stop Brexit.

Brexit will happen. However, it needs to happen after careful negotiation with the EU in order to get the best deal possible for the good of our country.

We have suffered enough with this ongoing pandemic and will continue to suffer, both physically, socially and economically. We need to appeal to those in our Government who wish to compound this suffering with a no-Deal Brexit to act in the best interests of their electorate and request this extension and avert further misery.

Vanessa Rogers, Wokingham

One-sided views In the last edition Mr Tom Ross makes the case for condemning Dominic Cummings and the Tories in general. His argument is very one-sided and inaccurate.

The press barons do not seem to be on Cummings side.

All the media outlets I've seen, including several Tory papers, have condemned Cummings. I cannot defend Cummings, what he did was stupid and his defence laughable.

But the sanctimonious person who reported seeing Cummings at Barnard Castle also broke the rules by driving to Ascot to pick up his daughter.

The second person who reported

Letters to Wokingham.Today (May 28) regarding the Prime Minister’s chief adviser clearly mirrored the views of a substantial majority of members of the public and several Government ministers and backbenchers on both sides of parliament.

History has, by now, surely taught us that with several exceptions, politicians of whatever persuasion are seen as selfserving duplicitous, truth-challenged individuals invariably choosing to place their own interests and survival ahead of those of the nation.

The actions and denials on the part of a seemingly amoral head of government and his chief adviser begs two questions: is the Prime Minister so incompetent that he is incapable of running the country without the advice of the disingenuously, deceitful alleged rule-breaking Dominic Cummings?

And what hold does Cummings have over Johnson that demands such inexplicable, ill-advised support?

This latest in a series of performances, lacking transparency and truth has little to do with politics. It is about lack of moral fibre, dereliction of duty and failed leadership.

The easing of lockdown will come as a huge relief to many for a variety of reasons. However, we would do well to remind ourselves of the devastating effect a second wave of infection had during the Spanish flu pandemic of 1918, which caused the deaths of an estimated 50 million people worldwide.

JW Blaney, Wokingham

Jim starts by stating that our broken planning system, which Wokingham Borough Council uses is biased towards the big developers. True.

Even if Wokingham Borough council, run by the Conservatives for more than 20 years wanted to stand up and fight for its residents which it has blatantly failed to do as the last seven years shows the writing is on the wall.

Even if they did fight for our residents which I doubt their Conservative friends in Westminster would just steamroller over any housing decision made and build thousands of houses over all our green fields in the south of the borough with next to nothing in the north of the borough. I wonder why?

Their Westminster friends are backtracking on infrastructure funding for Wokingham’s Conservative flagship policy to build 15,000 houses in Grazeley yet Wokingham Borough Council are still pressing ahead with this in their evolving policies. Not forgetting their housing plans for Shinfield, Swallowfield, Arborfield, Barkham and even Finchampstead which puts them all at risk also to the cement mixer and bulldozer.

The Government is now bending the rules and backtracking on developer funding designed to help with new development by providing schools, roads and all the facilities needed to make new communities work best not a peep out of Wokingham Borough Council opposing this vindictive move.

What a future we will be leaving for our children and their children.

Wokingham’s Conservative run council should be ashamed of themselves.

The only losers here will be our residents and their children who will have have all their green spaces concreted over, trees chopped down and environments destroyed without a thought to flora, fauna and climate emergency to make way for the bulldozer and cement mixer but in not the north of the Borough.

It’s not who you are but where you live it would appear.

Cllr Gary Cowan. Independent Borough Councillor for Arborfield at Wokingham Borough Council

Why the sirens?

Can you believe it?

What's the deal with the constant Emergency Vehicle sirens?

I've noticed over the last few weeks that an EV passes within earshot, (I live near Winnersh crossroads) and there seems to be yet another siren blasting every 20 minutes or so...

I know the Virus may well be responsible for a few, but the area sounds like New York...

With all the false victim numbers, bad decisions, controversy over unclear Covid 'rules', and ineptitude emanating from Westminster... This constant cacophony of sirens is very suspicious....

Rick and Lesley Daniow, Wokingham

When I was at school in the 1940s, I suspect few of us had heard of ‘a trillion’ – now adopted (forced by circumstances) in our daily language.

We would have been told a trillion is a one followed by 12 noughts, so difficult to comprehend all those years ago.

The Bank of England suggest they may have to print a £1 trillion to ease the economy to recover from The Virus. One might jokingly say WBC has asked for this money as it cannot control its spending and maybe is technically insolvent!

No sorry, they can just build more houses to increase revenue. Whatever, it’s an awful lot of money.

What no-one has yet mentioned is a currency devaluation. “No problem doing that” said Harold Wilson because the pound in your pocket remains the same.

There are countries that would never devalue their currencies – Switzerland never has so far as I know – they are very conscious of the effects on themselves.

Leaving that serious issue, to consider another, this time associated with the rather idiotic Test and Trace system that may one day work. Personally I feel it will be a waste of time, basically because it will not achieve the aim to identify all contacts connected to someone who catches the virus or has symptoms.

The designers are relying on that.

A clever young lady – one of the clinical contact caseworkers, has pointed

Cummings has admitted he lied, for a joke.

So for the sake of balance here are the Labour MPs who have also broken lockdown rules but don't seem to get much of a mention in the media. Rosie Duffield, Stephen Kinnock, Tahir Ali, Kevan Jones and Barry Gardiner.

John Wa‫מּ‬, Finchampstead Editor’s note: The man who drove to collect his daughter from Ascot was allowed to do so, as students were permitted to change their primary resident once during lockdown.

Urgent matters

Sensitive and well-written Lib Dem Councillor Lindsay Ferris in his letter “Another form of hypocrisy” last week started in his opening sentence which I thought was very sensitive and well-written.

He said, “Over the past few weeks, I have only made the odd comment about what has happened during the pandemic as I felt it was not appropriate to make political comment”.

I agree with his sentiment but moving on to Independent Councillor Jim Frewin's letter ‘Broken Promises” it becomes very obvious that although the Borough Council, as well as dealing with the pandemic its business as usual on its nasty evolving housing plans.

VIEWPOINTS | 15

To advertise call 0118 327 2662 out one weakness, that of infringement of the Data Protection Act. I wish to add my views and will be looking for infringements of The Human Rights Act of 1998. Let’s consider as an example, a shop keeper who works on his own as perhaps as a grocer. When trying to ensure customers and himself are safe from catching the virus, suppose he is ‘raided’ by one or two of the youth idiots with nothing to do.

So he says ‘Would one of you mind staying outside so that I can serve the other?’

I won’t suggest a response he may get, but his request is unacceptable to them, so they storm out, hopefully not stealing anything, but possibly threatening him.

Lo and behold, one gets the signs of a virus attack, gets a visit to a Testing Station, who then say ‘yes’, you’ve got it.

Before you go, please identify all those people you have been with for more than 15 minutes.

A response could be, ‘Well mate, I only remember we was in that grocer’s shop for a long time’. Telephone call from another expensive telephone operator – ‘is that Mr Grocer? I regret we have to ask you to pack up your business for a couple of weeks, because you have had contact with a male who has the virus’.

That action is in clear contravention of the Human Rights Act, and can only be justified via the Courts, by providing factual evidence of what went on, details of the two who visited the Grocer etc.

Potentially there may be many, many possible claims generated by the proposed system.

Amal Clooney, come home.

We have to concentrate on Testing everybody and awarding or not, a ‘chitty’ to allow them to leave home.

Readers I am sure would not want me to go on about another issue – that of going abroad for a well-earned holiday, but maybe having to isolate for two weeks on return. I won’t then.

Reg Cliﬞon, Wokingham

Don’t forget the isolaters After more than two months of staying at home, many people in the South East took full advantage of the nice weather last weekend, and are now able to meet up outdoors in small groups.

A huge number of people, however, especially those who are older and vulnerable, will have to continue to stay at home owing to health or mobility reasons, or because they’re worried about mixing with the general population again.

That’s why Independent Age, the older people’s charity, is calling on your readers not to forget those who need to continue self-isolating. We urge them to stay in touch with friends, family and neighbours who need to remain at home, as well as those who live alone or have no family or friends, and those who feel lonely.

Independent Age’s recent polling found that 89% of people aged 65 and over say their social contact has reduced significantly since the lockdown started.

Even before the pandemic, more than one million older people said they were always or often lonely.

Now that many of us have had a taste of how this feels, we must do all we can to help everyone stay connected. We have created a range of ideas and materials to help support older people and their families throughout the Covid-19 pandemic.

Independent Age’s advice can be viewed at independentage.org/covid-19 Independent Age is also supporting #letstalkloneliness, an initiative to encourage people to talk about loneliness and help tackle it.

Deborah Alsina MBE, Chief Executive of Independent Age

tonyjohnson That was the week

Justice, or just us?

I

N AMERICA it was a week when the charters of freedom were thrown back to the time of Paine, Franklin and Jefferson: that ‘we the people’ didn’t have a constitution for everyone; that all men weren’t created equal; and that the bill of rights had become a bill of goods.

In the UK, it was a week when ministers stopped being led by the science and started taking direct control – losing the plot, the moral high ground and much of the public’s confidence.

For Wokingham Borough Council, it was a week in which the first Audit meeting of lockdown needed the Mayor to act as a defibrillator to get it started and keep it running.

The Great Dictator By raising a copy of the Bible in front of a church instead of a copy of the Constitution in front of the White House, did Mr Trump back away from his pledge “to the best of my ability, preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States”?

By getting teargas, flash-bangs etc (aka ‘riot control agents’) fired on peaceful protesters in order to clear a path to a church, did Mr Trump put himself and his personal ambition above the Bill of Rights which provides for the “right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances”?

And when those unidentifiable officers attacked journalists, reporters, and camera crews, had Mr Trump let slip the future use of force against any person reporting police brutality, thus “abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press” Or is this the mutation of the United States of America into the Police State of America – now made visible?

The S.S. Great Moribund Closer to home the sight of the Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (aka Alok Sharma, Con. Reading West), frequently wiping his forehead and face with a hanky while giving a midafternoon speech in the Commons was alarming.

Rushed into self-isolation, then testing, the results were out in time for the next morning’s papers. He hadn’t got Coronavirus at all. No, sirree no. He definitely wasn’t infectious and the MPs who Jacob Rees Moggatishoo had coerced into conga democracy wouldn’t have to go into total isolation for 14 days.

The PM got rebuked by Sir Kier Starmer who went on to observe “This morning, The Daily Telegraph is reporting that the Prime Minister has decided to take ‘direct control’ of the Government’s response to the virus, so there is an obvious question for the Prime Minister: who has been in direct control up till now?”

Now this really isn’t on. For once the hon gent has announced via the Torygraph that he’s actually doing something useful and is taking responsibility for it too.

Things got worse when the Member for Maidenhead launched the last question of Prime Minister’s Questions about the UK’s future access to Euro-data.

Not only did the Prime Minister not know what a Prüm was, he couldn’t tell his SIS-2 from his sis-ter, and his answer left everyone in suspense, just like the sitting a moment later.

Scrutiny in the Borough As Lord Chief Justice Hewart remarked in 1924, “justice should not only be done, but should ... be seen to be done”.

Locally, we face a dilemma and it probably won’t be, but he probably will be. Done that is.

And it’ll all be appearing in public, later today. Or possibly not, but that’s up to the keepers of secrets to decide. Difficult things – secrets.

What the Neighbours said Our neighbours are very cross. The bird’s plaintive squawks and loss of even more plumage has convinced them that more than one cat’s having a go at the poor thing.

Excepting a couple of moribund bits and ‘ce spus vecinii’, that was the twelfth week of lockdown, that was. caveat.lector@icloud.com

16 | NEWS

Staying at home has helped you save £500

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Off grid and loving it LAST WEEK, we shared a short story created by members of Wokingham Library’s Writers Group.

They’ve been hard at work creating fiction based on the theme of isolation.

And in these socially distanced times, it’s an understandable theme.

This week, local author Harry Dunn shares his story with us.

If Harry’s name sounds familiar, it’s because he’s penned a series of thrillers including Death Run and Smiles of the Viper, which can be ordered from Watertsone’s in Peach Place when it reopens.

For more information about Wokingham Writers contact heather.dyson@wokingham.gov.uk

Isolation

WE’VE all been at home a lot more in recent weeks – the pandemic has seen us work, rest and play within the confines of our four walls.

And boffins reckon it’s done the finances of commuters the world of good. They’ve done some maths and think that they have saved almost £500 in the first 10 weeks of lockdown.

Experts from personal finance comparison site TheMoneyPig.com have researched spending habits of those who commute to do the number crunching.

They’ve taken into account lunches, drinks in the pub, and coffees.

Daily costs include meal deals at £3, and a takeaway coffee being an average of £2.44. Add in two pints in the pub on a Friday night, at an average of £7.38, and you can see how it starts to add up.

They’ve also included the average cost of a commute, which they say is £15.30 a week – obviously anyone heading from Wokingham borough to London will pay a little more.

Of course, things are changing now as the Government encourages workers to get back to the office if it’s safe to do so, but TheMoneyPig.com thinks that offices can offer flexible working to help their employees to save their money and prioritise their health and wellbeing.

Households who don’t commute are also likely to have saved money during lockdown, with spending on takeaways and fast food likely to have decreased.

Petrol is another area that many Brits have been able to save money, with a sharp decrease in use of vehicles over the time-frame.

A spokesperson from TheMoneyPig.com said: “Working from home has been a big change for many people in this extremely turbulent time.

“It is good to be able to report some positives for employees because of these changes and seeing more money in bank accounts is obviously a big one.

“This time may give people the chance to look at their finances when it comes to their commute and see where they can save money.

“Furloughed workers, although on 20% less than their normal wage, will also be enjoying the savings made from not commuting and spending time at home.

“Unfortunately, the price of commuting isn’t likely to decrease, but added extras such as coffees and shop-bought lunches are easy places to save money.

“Along with the added money-save bonuses, working from home also has brought many other benefits, including giving us more time in our day to spend with family or on self-care after removing the daily commute.

THE clearing he found was surrounded by 50 metres of dense scrub and he painstakingly cut a tunnel through it to pitch his tent and camouflage it with the branches he had cut away.

He knew no one would find their way through the thorny bushes to his hiding place.

THEY say that you have not experienced Shakespeare until you have read him in the original Klingon.

And, well, you’ve never experienced Madness until you’ve heard it performed by the original brass band.

Members of Saint Sebastian Wokingham Band might not be able to get together for rehearsals at the moment, but that hasn’t stopped them from coming together – virtually – to create a special treat for their fans.

The band, who head up civic parades and processions including the Wokingham Fireworks, are familiar faces across the borough in normal times, but the cancellation of just about everything means that we have been deprived of our fix.

Until now.

The band have used modern technology to stitch together an impressive cover of the popular Madness song Baggy Trousers.

Amy Wells says that the idea was inspired by choirs doing similar in recent weeks.

“Our musical director John Watts and the committee decided to approach the band to see if they wanted to do something similar for

Can you guess these windo

He was off grid and he loved it.

His night forays took him to weekend holiday cabins dotted throughout the woods and as his skill at lock picking improved, he soon had a steady supply of survival supplies.

He stole only what he needed taking flashlights, small gas canisters, tinned food, soft drinks, toilet rolls and books. His favourite was Robinson Crusoe.

One night he returned to his den just as dawn was breaking.

After unpacking his rucksack, he moved across to the board leaning against the rear of the tent. Scoring out the last number, he scratched 10,950 next to it.

As he sat down on his tree stump seat, he realised it was going to be a big day. He’d been in his solitary existence for 30 years. The exact amount of time he reckoned he would have spent in prison for murdering that annoying old man.

As he lit up his small stove to cook breakfast, he smiled at the thought of having served his time at no expense to the taxpayer. © Harry Dunn 2020

Band has Baggy Trousers that they’d like to share our Facebook page, and to do something together,” she explains.

“We’re all missing each other terribly, so the band jumped at the chance.”

The musicians were sent a click track, arranged by Alan Fernie, to perform along with, and filmed themselves performing their part – Amy was the first horn. Then their previous musical director, Nigel Howard, combined everything together, creating a musical tapestry that’s also a foot tapper.

Amy says: “We chose Baggy Trousers because it’s one of those pieces that wherever we are, it’s a crowd-pleaser. Everyone really enjoys it.”

And more items are planned, not just for their fans, but also for themselves.

“The band is not just about playing,” Amy smiles. “It’s about friendship. We’re all from different backgrounds but we can come together, play and socialise.

“We’re looking forward to being back together, (the virtual meetings) aren’t perfect, but it’s something at least.” � You can see the track at www.facebook.com/ wokinghambrassband

WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, June 11, 2020

2

1 WE’RE all missing the theatre at the moment – and in our corner of the woods, we’re lucky to have so many great venues on our doorstep, including The Mill at Sonning.

The dinner-theatre, which stages its own original productions, really is a gem nestled next to the River Thames.

Right now, it should be making the final preparations for its latest farce, Ray Cooney’s Two Into One, while enjoying meetings

4 about its festive musical, Top Hat. But the venue is closed and at the moment there is no way of knowing when it will be safe to reopen. Socially distancing is hard for a restaurant, and hard in a theatre, so when your business is both, it’s doubly difficult.

Sally Hughes, the owner of the Mill, says: “We are all eager to get back to normal and start the serious business of entertaining you”.

And they are also appealing for

Not all heroes wear masks …

By TAZ USHER tusher@wokinghampaper.co.uk AN Earley resident is on a mission to supply the community with face masks.

8,000 masks later and she shows no sign of stopping.

Lene Schoeman began making the masks as a hobby after being furloughed from her job as a nursery nurse.

She says: “When I was furloughed I decided I wanted to do something to give back to the community.

“I’ve always been creative and love sewing so thought this would be a good thing to fill my time with.”

Lene has so far donated 300 masks to Birmingham Children’s Hospital, as well as posting them to a children’s home in Wales and various charities across Earley.

She has also advertised them on her online Etsy shop Hartlam where she has sold 3,757 to date.

Ms Schoeman said: “As well as donating them to good causes, I decided to sell them on my shop as a way of getting some extra income to make up for that lost by my husband and I being furloughed.

“Before the pandemic, my shop

mainly featured home decorations, but as I’ve been struggling to get hold of the supplies needed for my normal items, the masks have become a temporary, and hugely popular, alternative.”

“The name of my shop is Hartlam, a word which originates from my South African culture. It directly translates to things you keep close to your heart which is a saying applicable to this time of crisis.”

Since beginning the sewing project with husband Nico, Lene has sought help on social media for keeping up with the demand.

She said: “As interest in the masks grew I decided to put a post on the Earley Residents Discussion Board Facebook page to see if anyone was keen to help me.”

“The response was incredible and within days I had a team of 10 ladies creating the masks.”

“We’ve been able to work together while abiding by social distancing guidelines.

“I’ve set up a postman-styled process which involves me dropping off the elastic and fabrics in a box on their front doorsteps and collecting the

Thursday, June 11, 2020 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

neilcoupe Another view

the show from ow displays?

Right man for the job

O Hope by Christina Machattou, one of the postcard-sized paintings up for auction

3

5 support – never before has being a Friend of the Mill been so important.

To help, stars including Peter Egan, Finty Williams, Debbie McGee and Mark Curry, have recorded some videos that can be viewed on the Mill’s website, sharing memories, poems and songs. And there’s a call to make donations to ensure that the show can go on.

It’s not the only way The Mill has been brightening people’s lives. Its

Gillian’s vision is small but makes a mighty difference

6 costume designer Natalie Titchener has been brightening up her street with some Mill costume displays.

We’ve pictured some of them here – which shows are they from?

As ever, this is just for fun, but the answers will be revealed next week. � For more, or to donate to The Mill, log on to millatsonning.com � Last week, we printed a picture from The Wilderness part of the University of Reading and next to the Harris Gardens.

… Lene’s busy making them!

Lene Schoeman with some of the masks she has made to help people stay safe while out and about Picture: Phil Creighton

box later on with the masks they’ve made in.”

Reflecting on the team’s efforts, which has churned out approximately 8,000 masks so far, Lene says: “These women are people I didn’t know previously and may never have met if it wasn’t for the pandemic. So if anything positive comes from this period, it’ll be these lovely women I’ve met.

“They are all amazing.”

And Lene’s community spirit hasn’t stopped there. On Wednesday, June 3, the generous creative announced that she would be hanging face masks from the front gate of her Earley home for locals to collect, free of charge.

She said: “With the lockdown measures changing and more people going back to work and needing to use public transport, it was the right time to give some of the masks away.

“I understand that not everyone can afford to buy face masks so wanted to play my part in giving something back.

“The masks were gone within three hours so it’s clear the word got out fast.”

“I had a great response and many lovely people stopped to chat.

“The social distancing measures have been hard for everyone so this is a nice chance to see people and get that much-needed face to face contact.”

And although the popularity of Lene’s mask giveaway meant it was short-lived, she plans to host another free collection service very soon.

In the meantime, she is selling the masks for a small cost from her driveway.

NEWS | 17

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THEY might be the size of a postcard, but they are mighty works of art. And they could be yours.

A Sue Ryder nurse has been collating a unique collection of mini masterpieces, all of which are going up for auction to help the hospice with its work across the Royal County.

Gillian Alderton, 62 and from Sulham, asked local artists, art groups, family and friends to create the artworks.

More than 100 pieces have been donated, using a range of mediums including acrylic, charcoal, watercolour and pastel. One of the pieces is by Gillian’s son Chris, guitarist in rock band The Amazons.

Since its launch last week, the mini-masterpieces auction has raised more than £2,500, with the proceeds going to the services run by the charity, which includes the day hospice in Wokingham Hospital, the Duchess of Kent Hospice and the Sue Ryder Palliative Care Hub South Oxfordshire.

Gillian says: “Coronavirus is having a devastating impact on funding and as a nurse at the Sue

The last of the lockdown?

To be sung to the tune of: What A Friend We Have In Jesus or When This Lousy War Is Over, a First World War Song When this lonely Lock-Down’s over, No more Staying-In for me...

I will visit friends and neighbours – Ask them home to cakes and tea.

No more news that’s sad and gloomy; No more tears we need to wipe; When at last we hold our lovedones – We can kiss good bye to Skype.

No more children painting rainbows; No more parents scared of sums; Eager teachers will be waiting – When the Call-to-Classroom comes.

No more clapping on a Thursday; No more smiling when I see Someone’s kindly kept their distance – As they dive behind a tree.

Ryder Duchess of Kent Hospice, I wondered what I could do to help.

“Rather than just asking friends for donations or sponsorship, I thought a postcard-sized art auction would benefit the artist, local community and charity. I hoped it would give those stuck at home during this time an opportunity to contribute.

“Art is therapy.”

And the efforts have been appreciated by Sue Ryder.

Laura Kell, head of hospice fundraising, says: “We’d like to say a huge thank you to Gillian, who has given her time to organise this auction alongside her incredible contribution as a Sue Ryder Nurse.

“We have been overwhelmed by the generosity towards our Emergency Appeal and we hope that fundraising activities like this will provide a way for everyone to support us and go some way to making up our shortfall in funds caused by the coronavirus pandemic.”

The auction closes this Sunday, June 15. To get bidding, log on to www.givergy.uk/sueryder2020

No more cheerful conversations While we queue towards the store; No more birdsong in the garden – When the planes begin to roar.

No more ‘Keep Fit’ in the mornings; No more bike-rides round the block; No more working in pyjamas Now we have to watch the clock.

Life will soon return to normal, No more time to stand and stare; We’ll have traffic jams and roadworks – Loads of fumes, but no fresh-air.

We will have to face the Future, Watch our cash go down the drain.

Freedom’s just around the bend BUT...

I WANT LOCK-DOWN BACK AGAIN. Clare Bevan � Have you written any lockdowninspired verse? We’d love to be able to share them with our readers, email news@wokingampaper.co.uk

VER the past couple of weeks, life seems to have started to return to some level of normality.

During the sunny weekend at the end of May, in particular, the parks were noticeably busier, Peach Place was bustling with thirsty outdoor customers and some local grassroots football clubs were planning to start socially distanced training sessions.

All-in-all, it felt that people, who had obeyed both the spirit and the letter of the rules for the best part of 10 weeks wanted to return to their own routines and social lives, and that was gradually happening.

Whether or not we are returning to normal life prematurely remains to be seen.

Some of the statistics around infection rates and excess deaths remain stubbornly high, and in any discussion about Covid-19 our thoughts have to be with those who have lost loved ones during this awful period.

There is high excess capacity in terms of intensive care beds, which seems to be the main criterion for relaxing lockdown.

The direction of travel is very clear and attention has moved from saving lives to saving the economy.

With this in mind, I had the good fortune to watch a webinar during the week where a group of economists and accountants were looking at the country’s economic prospects coming out of the Covid-19 crisis.

I listened with some trepidation, expecting to hear of a massively depressing outlook.

However, they were very clear that this has been a unique economic crisis, in that the economy has not stalled for any of the more conventional reasons, such as a slump in worldwide demand or tighter credit leading to unemployment, or because of a war.

Relevation It was quite a revelation to learn that even after the massive investment in the Job Retention Scheme, and the lack of tax revenue, that Government debt is still relatively manageable by long term (pre-1960 standards), leaving headroom to explore other options such as possible tax cuts to stimulate demand.

Predicting the future is never straightforward, but their general view was that although many things will be different, eg people who are able to, will be more likely to spend at least part of the week working from home, business travel is likely to decline, other things, such as tourism and consumer spending are likely to return to normal.

The infrastructure is in place for people to return to normal life, once it is safe to do so, and there has been massive Government intervention over the past three months aiming both to keep as many people as possible in paid employment, and ensure that inventory will be available for people to buy.

Their view is that the prospect of a quick recovery is predicated on one thing. That one thing is quite simply optimism.

They took the view that if people are optimistic about keeping their jobs and are positive in returning to their normal spending patterns as soon as possible, then the most likely outcome is that we are likely to see a fairly rapid recovery, and avoid the calamity of mass unemployment.

This led on to another thought.

To be diplomatic, it is currently unclear how successfully the Government has been in controlling the spread of coronvirus, but it is difficult to conceive of a leader with a stronger reputation for exuding optimism than our current Prime Minister.

If the economists I listened to are right, that the key to a rapid recovery is whether people feel positive and optimistic, then it is just possible that we may well have the right leader for that particular job.

18 | SOCIETY

helenabadger volunteer corner

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INTHECOMMUNITY

WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, June 11, 2020

News from your community groups, clubs and societies Send your reports to news@wokinghampaper.co.uk

Opportunities to help

AUDREY HARRISON (1931-2020)

ITIZENS Advice Wokingham offers free, confidential, impartial and independent advice and information to anyone living or working in Wokingham borough.

THE Wokingham Society wishes to pay tribute to its long-time member Audrey Harrison, who died on May 27.

After a number of years as a member, Audrey joined the Wokingham Society committee in 1997 and became secretary in 1999, serving until she relinquished that post in 2009.

For many years Audrey organised annual coach trips for the society and she remained a regular attender at society events.

Audrey was proud of her Barnsley roots and also of the career she had in retail management.

Together with her partner John she was a member of the London Flotilla of the Royal Navy Volunteer Supplementary Reserve and they enjoyed the social and maritime life that this brought them.

For some time Audrey lived in Elizabeth Court, Wokingham, where she served on the management committee, before moving to Acorn Drive for her final years.

C

We are a local charity, based in Waterford House in central Wokingham.

We are looking to recruit volunteers who will talk to clients over the phone, face-to-face (when regulations allow it) or online to explore what problems they have come for help with and identify the right level of support for them.

You will be required to write a summary and the actions that need to be taken.

It is a chance to be a part of making a real difference to someone's life by making sure the client's receive the support they need.

You will gain knowledge in areas such as benefits, housing, debt and employment through training and then the role itself.

It is a chance to gain new skills and meet new people.

You will need to be; friendly and approachable, non-judgemental, have good listening skills and excellent communication skills, good IT skills and be calm under pressure.

We need a minimum of six months’ commitment and we ask for six hours per week, which can be over one day or spread over two.

PETER MUST

Autism Berkshire

Peter von Bergen gets into a pickle with Pickle as part of his community challenge in aid of Air Ambulance

� At ABC to read we believe life is better when everyone can read and express themselves confidently.

Our trained reading mentors provide children with the skills and confidence they need to do just that.

A decline in the percentage of Berkshire children achieving the expected level for reading in the recently published Key Stage 2 SATs results, local charity ABC (Assisting Berkshire Children) to read is keen to do all it can to help schools and families in the borough to raise children’s achievement.

With the current crisis, we feel there is even more need for volunteers as some children may have fallen behind.

We are waiting to place volunteers in schools that are requesting our support, but we need more volunteers to come forward to help with this vital service.

Volunteers would be volunteering within a local school, ideally twice a week for one-and-ahalf hours in the afternoons but once a week will be considered.

The role is extremely rewarding, learning new skills and strengthens our community.

At the current time, we will be conducting online interviews and training, with the hope of placing volunteers into schools from September. � The Wokingham Volunteer Centre is a charity that works with and places volunteers in a wide range of community, voluntary and charitable groups across the borough.

We work with, and support, groups and organisations that require volunteers (including providing training). We promote the benefits of volunteering to the local community and run a number of schemes including the Wokingham Transport Scheme and the Green ‘n’ Tidy community gardening service.

The Trustees of Wokingham Volunteer Centre need a volunteer to take minutes at their monthly meetings. These take place once a month on Monday mornings and last no longer than two hours.

After the meetings, the role includes writing up the minutes and circulating to the board.

Key skills for this invaluable role are attention to detail, an interest in the work of the Volunteer Centre and an appreciation of the need for confidentiality. � These are some of the latest opportunities on our books. Contact us: tel. 0118 977 0749, email volunteer@wok-vol.org.uk or visit our website www.volunteerwokinghamborough.org.uk to find out more and have a look at all the roles we have to offer.

Easthampstead Rotary Club WITH all Community fundraising events this Spring and Summer cancelled due to COVID-19, Easthampstead Rotarians continue to adapt and support local charities.

Zoom meetings not only for long-term planning, but also a first club get-together with an invited outside speaker, Claire Mather from the Bracknell Foodbank.

More than 20 members enjoyed Claire's presentation which covered the dramatic increase in demand they, like other Foodbanks, are experiencing with many in our communities unable to work and largely housebound and with little or no social contact.

Demand has more than doubled with up to 500 requests last month alone.

Co-operation with Tesco for supplies and British Gas for transport helped provide 1 3 tonnes of essential food during May. For more information go to

bracknell.foodbank.org.uk/ Since the UK lockdown measures were introduced in mid-March, Easthampstead Rotarians have donated more than £2,000 to both the Bracknell and Wokingham Foodbanks.

Other financial and clothes donations to The Cowshed, a new Hurst-based charity which provides good quality cleaned and ironed clothes and other essentials free to anyone in need. For more details go to www.thecowshed.org Among the community events postponed or cancelled

by Covid-19, was the 3 Counties Cycle Ride, due to take place on Sunday, June 7. The event organisers, the Rotary Club of Bracknell, instead provided a Community Challenge, askig people to exercise during the lockdown in aid of their charities. For more see 3ccr.org/ 3CCR organising committee member and Easthampstead Rotarian, Peter von Bergen is

CLASP

admiration for them doing so.

On Monday, there is a weekly Facebook challenge, where CLASP members share a picture of themselves with a friend.

On Tuesday, an online Zoom session will see Carol Price, from the learning disability health team, talk about the importance of friendship and good mental health during lockdown. This starts at 10am.

Then, at 11am, the sports and leisure team from Wokingham Borough Council will lead a movement to music session.

In the evening, there is an online quiz night from 7pm.

A talent show will take place from 10am on Wednesday, June 17.

At the same time on

A WOKINGHAM-based group is to hold a virtual series of events to mark Learning Disability Week, which starts on Monday.

CLASP, which usually meets in the Bradbury Centre in Wokingham town centre, has been holding online gatherings since March, and these are open to anyone in the borough who has a learning disability.

The theme of the annual event is Friendship in Lockdown, and to act as a curtain-raiser the group is posting a daily video to its Facebook page. Members are sharing tips on how to live a happy life.

It is a very brave thing for them to share so openly like this and I have great

just one of the event's supporters who took up the Community Challenge.

“My goal is to Cycle (exercise bike), Walk (with Pickle, our Bichon Frise rescue, seen here helping my warm-up), and Row (Pilates) the equivalent of 10 times the longest 3CCR route (54 miles) so 540 miles.

“No animals were harmed during my Community Challenge.”

So far, with a week to go, Peter has reached 250 miles in support of Thames Valley Air Ambulance. For more details on its work, visit www.tvairambulance.org.uk “People have given so generously to my JustGiving page, total to-date £335.

“To spur me on, people can still give to www.justgiving.com/ fundraising/pa-bergen” Easthampstead Rotarians – working with the community for the community. Check out our website: www.easthampsteadrotary.org or follow us on Facebook.

Thursday, there will be a virtual coffee morning led by Claire Knight from the Bradbury Centre’s Cafe Mosaic.

There will also be a chance to share videos on how to maintain friendships during lockdown.

On Friday, June 19, there is a musical session led by members of the Sing Healthy Choir at 10am.

At 11am, FL Exercise will lead some light exercises that can be carried out safely at home.

CLASP has a Zoom licence to ensure all meetings are secure.

For more details, search Facebook for CLASP Wokingham, or log on to www.claspwokingham.org.uk Debs Morrison, CLASP manager

AUTISM BERKSHIRE says it is pleased to announce that it is launching another of its services online, with a series of free benefits advice workshops taking place over a two-month period from next week.

The workshops, which are for autistic people living in Berkshire and their parents and carers, will look at how to apply for Disability Living Allowance (DLA) for children aged up to 15 and for benefits for over-16s, including Personal Independence Payment and Universal Credit.

All the workshops will take place on Mondays from 10am to 1pm, as follows: � June 15: Disability Living Allowance – this workshop is now fully booked � June 29: Personal Independence Payment, Employment and Support Allowance and Universal Credit for autistic young people and adults aged 16 and over, and their parents and carers. � July 6: Disability Living Allowance � July 13: Personal Independence Payment � July 20: Universal Credit and Employment and Support Allowance � July 27: Disability Living Allowance Full details of these workshops and how to register for free places are available on our website at www.autismberkshire.org.uk/ benefits-service.

Alternatively, email benefits@autismberkshire. org.uk or calling 0118 959 4594 (option 2) and leaving a voicemail.

This website also has information about other advice about benefits available to autistic people and their families, including help with the appeals process. � The Benefits Service is supported

by Reading Borough Council’s New Directions service and the Slough CVS SPACE project.

Help with the costs of running the service online during the coronavirus lockdown has come from the Charities Aid Foundation, Berkshire Community Foundation, the Louis Baylis Maidenhead Advertiser Trust and Tesco Bags of Help.

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| 19

who arrived on Saturday morning at 8.00am and proceeded to move 25 tons of spoil/soil to the de worked so hard Toand we email are really grateful to them. Brian and the team are also enthusiastic advertise advertising@wokinghampaper.co.uk WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, June 11, 2020abou 20 | SOCIETY volunteer on a regular basis for many causes. Here is a selection of pictures of them hard at work wokinghamlovesmusic THANK YOU AGAIN TEAM BENNY’S bit.ly/wokinghamlovesmusic

E

VERYONE enjoys listening to music, so we’re delighted to introduce a great new playlist for you to tune in to.

Curated by Chris Hillman from White Star Records, it features music being played, created or promoted in Wokingham.

You can find it on Spotify, search for Wokingham Loves Music or visit bit.ly/wokinghamlovesmusic – bookmark it today and discover some new sounds.

We’ll bring you some new tracks every week, giving you the chance to discover local talent, new songs and even new genres.

Here’s the second selection from Chris.

1. Kepler Ten – Two from the Top – During lockdown, three-piece prog trio created a brand new track and video from their separate locations which they released on their own Facebook page.

The track, a homage to the TV show Countdown, went down so well that Wokingham-based label White Star Records decided to release it as a single. Check out the video which also features a snippet from their live performance at last year’s Wokingham Festival, www.keplerten.com 2. Green Seagull – Simeon Brown – Mega Dodo Records is a Wokingham based record label specialising in new psychedelic releases. Green Seagull are a great band on the label who have their second album, Cloud Cover released on Mega Dodo next month. Check out the psychedelic pop of Simeon Brown the single from the album, www.facebook.com/greenseagull 3. Bradley Watmore – Rock Bottom – Local Singer / Songwriter with his first single 4. Kyros – Rumour – First Single from the forthcoming album Celexa Dreams on White Star Records 5. Katrina & The Waves – Walking on Sunshine – Katrina from the band who had this huge hit in the 1980s will be appearing live at Wokingham Music Club at ESSC on Friday, November 6.

6. BlueTouch – Everybody Knows – local band based at and recorded their latest album ‘40 Miles...’ at Wokingham’s No Machine Studios.

7. The Salts – Fifteen Men (John Mitchell Remix) – the track was originally recorded for the band’s Brave album. The track was remixed for this single by renowned producer John Mitchell at Readingbased Outhouse Studios.

8. Mordecai Smyth – Billywitch – Wokingham musician who records in his own studio and had his ‘The Mayor of Toytown is Dead’ album released on Wokingham record label, Mega Dodo Records.

9.Harriet – Reach – Harriet will be Live at Wokingham Music Club at The Whitty Theatre on November 23.

10. Crooked Shapes – Wicked Ways – Up-andcoming Wokingham based rock band with track from their Fallout EP.

INTHECOMMUNITY

CONFLICT

By James Lomax Part 21 of 26 Carlos’ genius plan to escape the prison planet has been foiled. After escaping a cell using his android servant, Carlson, who has transformed into a destructive laser, he’s managed to make it as far as the stairs to the top floor, where freedom awaits. However, he’s now surrounded by security bots, too many to fight. What can he do now?

A

few minutes earlier, Benny, Shana, Carlos’ parents and the hacked security bot were awaiting the oncoming hordes of bots when they realised they weren’t the ones in danger.

Benny watched as a group of security bots We put a plea out on Brian and the team are also Wokingham In Need marched right past them, not even noticing them Facebook and Lee Wilcox from enthusiastic about the TO RAISE FUNDS or DONATE EQUIPMENT COMPLETE THIS WONDERFUL PROJ to Shana’s Freedom Cube.

WOKINGHAM in Need isHELP feeling US Warfield Turf answered the call community and volunteer on a TOthanks “I don’t think it’s us they’re after,” he grateful for the assistance of following a post from regular basis for many IT Prospect IS SO EASY TO HELP SOcauses.

PLEASE DO……………………. addressed the group. “Someone else must have Warfield Turf, who came to our Estate Agents who knew of Lee Here is a selection of pictures of escaped.” assistance with the progression and his company. them hard at work last VISIT OURFollowing JUST GIVING PAGE: Saturday. https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/winsensory2 “You don’t think it’s Carlos, do you?” Shana of The Acorn Centre Sensory this connection asked.

Garden.

Lee very kindly donated the Thank you again. him, it probably is,” Benny turned The project – to refurbish a and arranged delivery We need to raise funds to VIA OURspoil/soil FACEBOOK PAGE andcomplete press the donate buttontowards - “Knowing WOKINGHAMINNEED everyone. neglected area at the Acorn last Friday. this wonderful He looked over at The Golden Dawn, so Community Centre in We are so grateful to him project. tantalisingly If they wanted to, they could Wokingham, formerly an area and his team their help here To help, visit SIMPLY WRITE A for CHEQUE PAYABLE TO WOKINGHAM IN NEEDclose.

AND DELIVER TO : get up and go, leaving undetected. But that would mean regularly and actively used by as it will enable us to move www.justgiving.com/ Prospect Estate Agents in Broadcrowdfunding/winsensory2, Street Wokinghamor leaving Carlos behind. And he couldn’t do that. adults with learning disabilities, forward once again.

He dished out his instructions. Bernard and Bertha their parents and carers.

They were a great bunch of log on to Facebook page – would go in the ship and stay safe.

This new Sensory Garden guys and offer such a great search for Wokingham Benny would fit himself with an earpiece in case will also benefit other users of range of services – please In Need. www.wokinghaminneed.com wokinghaminneed@gmail.com they had to tell him something quickly. the site including children support them if you can – they Alternatively, you can drop The hacked bot would take Shana down to the attending after school activities care about the community. a cheque, payable to level where Carlos was, which the bot would know, and members of the public We were also blessed by our Wokingham In Need, to the being part of the system. visiting the on-site café. regular team of volunteers from offices of Prospect Estate Shana would stay undetected since she was not Wokingham In Need started Friends Of Finchampstead Agency, our main sponsor, in scanned at the entrance, which she would use to her the second phase of the project Ridges who arrived on Saturday Broad Street, Wokingham. advantage. but unfortunately hit across a morning at 8am and proceeded For more details, log on to Finally Benny, handicapped by his arm, would wear problem in relation to some of to move 25 tons of spoil/soil to www.wokinghaminneed.com the special shield armour they had in the ship to try the ground work and needed an the designated area – they or email: wokinghaminneed@ and protect Carlos. urgent supply of spoil/soil – up worked so hard and we are gmail.com They acted quickly, sprinting to The Golden Dawn SUE JACKSON to 25 tons was needed. really grateful to them. and grabbing what weapons they could carry. Benny put on the shield armour, and immediately felt safer.

Government guidelines that A statement on its website Wargrave and He also picked out one of his favourite shieldmass gatherings will not be said: “The need to prioritise the Shiplake Regatta rifles, although he was prepared to drop it if he allowed until the autumn at the health and safety of our needed both hands free.

THE annual Wargrave and earliest. subscribers, competitors, Shana took some riot armour, which fitted on her Shiplake regatta is another Organisers said that British spectators, staff, contractors, torso, and separate pieces which she strapped on to victim of the coronavirus Rowing is not allowing suppliers and volunteers has her arms and legs. She took a shield-rifle for herself, pandemic. competition until the end of been our primary concern.

The event, which had been July, and it is thought it may be “We remain keenly aware of and two zip wires.

After leaving the parents inside the ship, they due to take place on Friday, extended. And they also cannot wider public health headed back down the grey, concrete steps towards August 7 and Saturday, August guarantee that social distancing implications and our 8, has been cancelled following could be maintained. responsibility to support the stairs that led down to the 76th floor.

Benny heard a massive explosion, and the shouts society’s efforts to of prisoners. He also heard an excited yell that avoid the spread of Covid-19. sounded exactly like Carlos, and wondered how he had managed to escape.

“Accordingly, our rafts, our No time for that right now, though, as they both boats and our best concentrated on attaching their zip wires to the intentions will be railing, where far below them the stairs continued given an extended deep underground.

Once everything was attached, they climbed over rest until the summer of 2021 when we the railing into the gap in the middle of the stairwell. will be back in full After making sure everything was properly secured, they slid down. force.”

Benny wasn’t that scared as he’d done this It has launched a 150th anniversary club many times before, but it was still a thrilling experience to be sliding down at high speeds. draw, with 25% of funds distributed as They waited until the signs said 70 before hitting the brakes and slowing down, coming to a stop prizes and the remainder going right outside floor 76, where many bots were marching in. towards the costs of staging the event.

Far above them, the hacked bot was travelling down the stairs with speed, as it was too heavy And there is also welcoming new for a zip wire.

Once he reached the 76th floor, Benny realised supporters, who can see their he might have made a mistake launching himself subscriptions headfirst into this situation. enhanced by gift aid.

As he looked over at the large amount of security The 2021 event is bots surrounding Carlos, they looked over at him.

All of them. due to take place on Friday, August 6 and Lasers protruding out of the plates on their arms.

To be continued…

Saturday, August 7.

NEWS | 21

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Thursday, June 11, 2020 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

David takes care to start his new job well

A life well lived … This Sunday, Wokingham man John Clemetson will celebrate his 100th birthday

John reaches 100th birthday

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokinghampaper.co.uk THIS Sunday will be kept special by one borough resident – it’s his 100th birthday.

John Clemetson has lived in Wokingham for nearly 60 years, but was originally from the north west.

And he served in the Royal Artillery during the Second World War, taking part in the Battle of Dunkirk and spent three years as a prisoner of war.

In more peaceful times, he has been a member of All Saints Church in Wiltshire Road, and served as secretary of its Parochial Church Council for 20 years.

His daughter Jane Clemetson is looking forward to celebrating his milestone birthday.

Looking back on his life, she said: “He was born in Newcastle Upon Tyne and raised in a working class background “He joined the army and was called up in 1939 and went to France with the British expeditionary force and was in the 72nd field regiment of the Royal Artillery as a gunner.

“He was at Dunkirk where he was evacuated and went back to the middle east and was captured in North Africa in 1942 and was a prisoner of war for three years in what is now Czech Republic.”

After the war, Mrs Clemetson said that he “hadn’t quite had enough excitement for one life” and joined the insolvency service, becoming an official receiver before he retired.

And he didn’t stop there: “After he retired, he did a degree in archaeology as he has always been very keen on history and Roman history and got a firstclass degree.”

His family had been hoping to commemorate his special day with a large celebration, however those plans have had to be changed due to lockdown restrictions.

He will still be able to see family and friends to celebrate the milestone of reaching 100.

“We were going to have a really big party, but unfortunately that has been spoiled due to the lockdown,” continued Mrs Clemetson.

“I'm going to go over with my husband and some of the neighbours are going to come round to celebrate in a socially distanced way.”

Arrest after cyclist dies in collision A CYCLIST has died in a road traffic collision in Sonning yesterday morning.

Police are now appealing for witnesses to the incident, which took place in Thames Street around 7.50am.

Sadly, the 42-year-old man died at the scene, and his family are receiving support from specially trained officers.

A 22-year-old woman from Reading has been arrested on

suspicion of causing death by careless driving while unfit through drink or drugs. They were in custody as we went to press.

Thames Street was closed to allow officers from Thames Valley Police investigate the incident.

Inspector Simon Hills, of Roads Policing based in Bicester Howes Lane, said: “I am appealing for witnesses to this

incident, during which a man tragically died.

“I would ask that any motorists who were in the area at this time, who have dash cam footage, please review it to check if anything significant has been captured on it.

“Anyone with information is asked to call 101, or make a report online. Please quote reference URN 181 10/6 when making any reports.”

Optalis’ new chief executive David Birch joined the social care company just before lockdown began

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokinghampaper.co.uk QUICK action was needed by one of the borough’s care organisations to ensure it could look after its residents during the pandemic.

Optalis, which is partially owned by Wokingham Borough Council, says that its new chief executive was thrown in at the deep end – he joined in March, just before the lockdown began.

And the coronavirus has had a wide-ranging impact on its social care work.

David Birch had barely got his feet under the table when he unexpectedly found himself leading a team to manage the challenges of both staff and customer wellbeing and safety.

And he said that a fast response was required to meet the urgent need to secure appropriate PPE supplies.

“It was such an uncertain time for everyone,” he said.

“Our staff had to completely change the way they worked, customers that we support were

suddenly faced with isolation and I was in a new role, facing a challenge that all other social care providers will relate with.

“My focus has so far been on understanding the services that Optalis provides and meeting as many people as possible.”

But he said that this work had to be put on hold, to enable the company to respond to the rapidly changing nature of the pandemic.

“More recently I have been pleased to make a series of socially distanced tours of our many different services and it has been inspiring to see how staff are continuing to provide exceptional care and support,” he said.

Mr Birch is pleased with what he has seen: “I’m finding out that there is something very special about the culture at Optalis.

“It’s a combination of professionalism, determination, a willingness to have fun and a deep and genuine kindness and affection for all customers.

“It’s a very special mix that clearly works for the people who are entrusted to our care and it makes me very proud to be part of it.”

Of course, the pandemic won’t last forever, and life for Optalis will, like the rest of the country, soon be a new normal.

Mr Birch said that he is looking forward to building on his initial challenges, with the aim of moving the company on over the next few years.

And he had a head start, as right from the beginning of his association with the company, he has got to know both staff and clients.

“People are the most important part of any organisation so I was so pleased to be interviewed by not only an interview panel, but customers and other staff members as well,” he said.

“It reiterated the culture at Optalis and how the organisation values the opinions of the whole workforce and those we support.”

Help clean up Dinton

Woodley’s new community garden is here

RESIDENTS across the Borough are being urged to love where they live by joining the Dinton Litter Pick.

Wokingham Borough Council says that littering has increased during lockdown; as visitor numbers surged, so has the rubbish left behind.

Now, the team at Dinton Pastures Country Park are asking locals to slam dunk the junk on their next visit.

From Saturday, visitors can grab a litter picker and rubbish bag in the main Dinton car park, just next to Muddy Ducks Nursery.

In line with Government guidance, equipment will be disinfected and volunteers are asked to use the gloves provided during their litter pick.

Hand sanitiser will also be

WORK on a new community garden in Woodley precinct has been completed, with a raised brick wall installed around the four trees outside Waitrose, near the Crockhamwell Road car park.

The completion comes just in time for nonessential shops to reopen.

The paving slabs around the trees have now been removed, which should solve the problem of the roots dislodging the slabs and creating a potential trip hazard.

The project was a joint initiative between Woodley Town Council,

available and those getting involved are reminded to wash their hands before and afterwards. As with all park visitors, participants are also asked to maintain a two-metre distance from others.

Cllr Parry Batth, executive member for environment and leisure, said: “We know just how much our residents love Dinton Pastures and the litter pick actually came about following several suggestions from local people.

“We’re delighted to have brought their ideas to life and would encourage visitors to grab a litter picker on their next visit.”

“There are 10 bins across the park and bins are being emptied more regularly in response. If a bin is full, take your trash home or let one of the countryside team know.”

the Town Centre Management Initiative and Wokingham Borough Council.

The brick wall was the

preferred option following feedback from residents.

New seating will be installed in the area for

visitors to the town centre by the town council, as well as a notice board in the same style as those in Woodford Park.

Pedestrians will still be able to walk on either side of this new garden to move between shops.

Now the site will be handed over from the borough council’s contractor to the town council, which will plant up the area.

The plants and vegetation to be installed in the garden has yet to be decided with current thoughts of a school community garden, a variety of grasses or even the use of moss to absorb carbon from the atmosphere or a mixture of both.

22 | LEISURE

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, June 11, 2020

LEISURE | 23

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Thursday, June 11, 2020 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

IN THE KITCHEN

In the night garden

I

N summer, with light and longer evenings and warmer weather, it’s great to be able to relax in the garden until late.

By adding night-scented plants and soft lighting, along with palecoloured flowers and foliage that appear to glow in the fading light, your garden will become an enticing ‘room’ to sit in at the end of the day.

White flowering plants – like big blooms of hydrangeas – have a lovely glow in the evening garden reflecting the last of the light which makes them appear brighter than other plants.

Pale blues and lilacs also look their best in fading light, so sea holly with its tiny blue flowers that sit in rosettes of silvery-grey bracts is a great addition.

Bright foliage also creates an evening glow in the garden. Light-coloured, variegated and silver leaf plants reflect any available light.

Lambs Ear (Stachys byzantine) is a popular ground cover plant that has the most wonderful soft, furry, silver-grey leaves.

It’s fairly drought resistant so a good choice for a dry, sunny border.

Many beautiful flowers only produce scent at night and often have a stronger aroma than their daytime counterparts.

Fragrance is released from night-scented flowers as the heat of the day lingers into the evening.

Petunias may seem be a strange choice for a night garden, but they are night scented.

Some smell during the day, but not to the same intensity of the night scent.

Night Scented Stocks do just that and have a pastel colour flower palate.

It’s best to plant scented night garden flowers where you’ll brush against them or come close to them.

Try planting them around doors and paths.

If you are planting in pots make sure you arrange them round seating areas to provide a

Gavin McArdell www.CurryFrenzy.com

French Garlic Bread

Night scented honeysuckle heady aroma or position them near doors and windows so that the fragrance drifts inside.

Even though planting the right nightflowering plants in the right place will give you stunning effects, if you want to really enjoy your garden after dark, some form of garden lighting is essential.

Try not to floodlight your entire garden.

Instead, pick out specific plants and trees to showcase.

Up lighting, either set on spikes or recessed into the ground, showcases plants beautifully at night.

But it’s not just at night time you want your garden to look good so here are some tips for

Petsandvets With Claire Turner

Cool for cats

C

ATS love to sunbathe but even they can get too hot in the summer and may need some help to stay cool.

Any cat can overheat however they will struggle more if they are long haired, flat faced, overweight or elderly.

If your cat is any of these please keep a close eye on hot days.

If cats overheat and are unable to cool themselves down they can become very ill.

If you notice your cat panting, drooling, being lethargic or wobbly on their feet then please phone your vet as these may be signs that they are overheating.

Depending on how sick they are they may need to come in so that we can cool them down safely and rehydrate them with a fluid intravenous drip.

However it is preferable not to reach this point and to help with this it is a good idea to make cool areas for them in the house and the garden that they can retreat too.

My cat’s favourite spot is the bathtub and many cats will also love laying out on the cool kitchen tiles.

Make sure they always have access to these areas and have a water bowl nearby.

Also make sure they have multiple shaded areas for them in the house and garden with water points so they never have to travel far for a drink.

You can also get cooling mats for your cat to lay on or can wrap up an ice pack in a blanket or towel and place it in your cat’s favourite sleeping area.

this month from the RHS (Royal Horticultural Society)… � Hoe borders regularly to keep down weeds � Be water-wise, especially in droughtaffected areas � Pinch out side shoots on tomatoes � Harvest lettuce, radish, other salads and early potatoes � Position summer hanging baskets and containers outside � Mow lawns at least once a week � Plant out summer bedding � Stake tall or floppy plants � Prune many spring-flowering shrubs � Shade greenhouses to keep them cool.

T

HIS simple dish makes a great appetiser when waiting for the main event.

Ingredients for 4 � 1 French stick or similar � 3 Cloves garlic finely grated � 150g Room temperature salted butter � 4 TBSP Fresh parsley finely chopped

Providing personal care for all your pets

Oaklands Park, Wokingham RG41 2FD

0118 979 3200

Method Mix the butter and parsley with the garlic.

If time allows leave to infuse overnight.

Slice the bread at a diagonal without cutting all the way through. Paste the garlic butter mix into the cuts.

Wrap in tin foil but leave the top slightly loose.

Bake at 200ºC for 20 minutes and serve.

Gavin McArdell www.CurryFrenzy.com

Trusted by you to provide personal care for all your pets since 2005

rooms like conservatories in the summer or make sure that they are unable to be trapped inside one.

Oaklands Park, Wokingham RG41 2FD If they have and are struggling please phone your vet as soon as possible.

0118 979 3200

� 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. For more information visit www.stvincentsvets.co.uk or call us on 0118 979 3200.

Providing personal care for all your pets If you have a long-haired cat, giving it a trim will help them cope with hot weather

Oaklands Park,restrict Wokingham RG41 to2FD If they are long haired and struggling consider If possible their time outside early clipping their hair short. Even just doing a short shave on morning and late evening, when it has cooled their underside really helps. People often comment on down and avoid playing with them in the middle how much happier and active their cats are after of the day when it is hot. clipping their hair short.

Finally make sure to restrict their access to hot

0118 979 3200

Trusted by you to provide personal care for all your pets since 2005 Oaklands Park, Wokingham RG41 2FD

0118 979 3200

24 | LEISURE

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Why the bandits turned to the Snake

Teenager Finley Saunders won first place in the Under 18s category of a photo contest for his image of a mountain biker in Swinley Forest

Top of the shots

A

N AMAZING selection of photographs, all taken by Thames Valley residents, has gone on show at a Bracknellbased arts centre.

South Hill Park had teamed up with Bracknell Forest Council to host the Bracknell Forest Photography Competition.

Entrants were asked to take pictures based on what inspires them about the area – and they sent back images of wildlife, scenic countryside, architecture and education.

There were 12 shortlisted entries, with five being named as winners. With the arts centre still closed to visitors, they are available to view in a virtual gallery.

Graham Butcher’s stunning photo of a wasp on a yellow flower at Savernake Park was the overall winner of the adult category.

Crowthorne teenager Finley

Saunders (15) was the first place winner in the under 18s category and a £50 gift card for his self-portrait, mountain biking in Swinley Forest.

The contest was supported by the Economic Skills and Development Partnership (ESDP) and Duncan Yeardley Estate Agents.

Bob Collis, chairman of the ESDP and photo competition sponsor said: “We’re really pleased that South Hill Park could host the exhibition of these inspirational images, as it’s important to keep everyone feeling inspired by the borough, particularly as the community has been working so hard together to stay safe at home.

“Please do go online to see the entries for yourself, just visit the exhibitions page on the South Hill Park website.”

A new contest is being planned.

To see the shortlist, visit www.southhillpark.org.uk/whats-on/ exhibitions/

M

ANY of us dream of jamming with our musical heroes, but few of us get to do it for real.

Members of a Twyford-based group have done just that – and during lockdown too.

The Sax Bandits is a 70-strong band of saxophonists. Like every group across the country, the coronavirus has put rehearsals on ice.

But Rob Digweed, who calls himself the sorcerer of sax, didn’t want his apprentices to go rusty. So he decided to create a virtual performance of the 80s hit Danger Zone. And to make it even more memorable, he enlisted the help of legendary saxophonist Snake Davis, who has performed with the likes of Take That, Paul McCartney and Ray Charles.

The end result, complete with 80s-style video effects, is a terrific performance bringing together musicians who are currently socially distanced.

Rob says: “Sax Bandits was started to cater for people who wanted to play for fun. We had eight students, now we have 100 members

Power of poetry will help arts centre

A

MAIDENHEAD actor believes in the power of poetry for helping the arts industry through the pandemic.

Raising funds for Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Clive Woodward is preparing to perform his much loved show A Celebration of Life on Sunday, June 14.

The pre-recorded live stream will see Mr Woodward share poems with viewers with the goal of helping Norden Farm through the financial backlash of the global crisis.

Commenting on the creative’s charitable gesture, chief executive and artistic director of Norden Farm, Jane Corry said: “We’re so moved by Clive putting together this creative fundraiser for The Farm, and feel so lucky to have such talent in our backyard.

“Being able to present events, classes and projects online is great, and thanks entirely to our talented technical manager, Matt Biss and volunteer Iain Donaldson, who’ve worked tirelessly to make it possible.

“The love and support The Farm is receiving from the community is just fantastic and what keeps us going.

“We’re determined to emerge from this crisis stronger than ever so we can continue to entertain Maidonians for generations to come.”

WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, June 11, 2020

A Celebration of Life explores power of poetry – celebrating life from childhood to twilight.

The performance often reflects on Clive’s varied and interesting life and includes amusing anecdotes and a splash of music.

Poems from childhood to twilight provide a powerful, emotional and fun show – allowing you to reflect on and celebrate life.

The show is geared to make you think, reflect, laugh and observe life during these unprecedented times.

The show will be pre-recorded in collaboration with the Norden Farm technical team and streamed live on Sunday from 4pm.

Tickets are £8 per household with all ticket revenue going directly to supporting Norden Farm.

For more information and to purchase a ticket for the live-stream log on to norden.farm/events/acelebration-of-life-37 or call the Norden Farm Box Office at 01628 788997.

Tickets must be booked two hours before the show starts.

across three locations, and have met on a monthly basis for four years. We’ve scaled up quickly.

“We usually play in Charvil Pavilion, but lockdown has presented new challenges for people who meet in a room and play together.

We’ve had to think of a way round it.”

Inspiration struck Rob after seeing choirs perform songs together and quickly set upon his song – he says not all pieces of music translate well to the sax.

“Danger Zone is a classic 80s song, there is a nostalgic element to it,” he says.

And from there, he snagged his man.

“I reached out to Snake, he was really impressed with our demo and was really up for it,” Rob says. “He’s a lovely man – he’s known as the loveliest chap in music.”

Performing was one thing, stitching it all together was another. It took several days for him to clean up the audio, and place the videos into place.

“It was a mammoth undertaking,” Rob says.

“But when you see the finished product, it’s so rewarding.

“It’s amazing for the Bandits, it’s one of the biggest things we’ve done.”

It had more than 1,500 views in the first two days of going online, meaning Rob is now thinking of his difficult second video.

“We’re working on one now, asking how do I top this?” he explains. “We’re exploring a team-up with Music Made Fearless, a vocal coaching studio in Twyford. It will be a completely new thing for us, usually, the sax plays the tunes, but for this, we’ll be in the background.”

And why does Rob care so much about the tunes?

“Music is a good unifier,” he explains. “I was pondering what to do in lockdown to keep people interested. We’ve had so many bice comments from the band about the video.

They’ve said to me, ‘Thank you for giving us something to focus on, it’s kept us motivated.”

The Sax Bandits welcome new members.

“We want to make sure that people who don’t think they’re good enough to play, they might be able to get involved in the next video.

There will be no pressure to continue afterwards,” says Rob. � For more details, visit saxbandits.co.uk PHIL CREIGHTON

Live streams and a virtual hub of culture

N

EW Live streams will keep locals connected with the arts following the introduction of a new online platform.

Launched late last month as part of the annual Reading Children’s Festival, ReadingUK Culture Live is bringing performances, workshops and craft activities straight to Berkshire homes in collaboration with Reading Borough Council and the University of Reading.

The virtual hub responds to the closure of arts venues and events due to the Covid-19 pandemic by streaming sessions ranging from dance and yoga classes to crafts and music workshops which users can access from their electronic devices.

The website features content from across Reading’s cultural community.

Executive director of Reading UK, Nigel Horton-Baker, was delighted to be launching it: “We are missing our cultural fix in Reading in these Covid times and our local

artists and cultural community have had their income streams cut off overnight.

“This project brings the two elements together to keep us healthy and lift our spirits during these difficult times, while providing a platform for Reading’s renowned creative sector.”

Funded by the Great Places Scheme, much of the streamed content is free to watch, however some small businesses may ask for a small fee or donation to cover their costs.

It is hoped that the Reading Culture Live website will become a permanent fixture on Reading’s

cultural scene to promote local artists as well as maintaining locals’ connection with the arts.

Reading Borough Council’s lead for heritage, culture and recreation, Karen Rowland said: “Enjoy a new piece of music, find the artist within you, dance-off pent-up energy, meditate your way to inner peace or tuck the kids away at something fun and good for them, whilst you take a well-earned breather.

“Arts and culture can pave the way to better mental and physical health for everyone.” � To view the new website log on to readingculturelive.co.uk.

TAZ USHER

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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

Reasons for Advert Description

201022

Old School Hall, High Street, Twyford

Conservation Area

201263

201323

201280

Sunrise, Eversley Road, Arborfield

Conservation Area

Mistletoe Cottage, The Departure from Devils Highway, Riseley Development Plan

Bishops Close, Sonning Lane, Sonning

Conservation Area

Full application for the proposed restoration and conversion of existing building into a library, erection of a single storey lobby/link area and a two storey extension to provide multi-purpose community facilities including a café, plus associated landscaping and demolition of existing public toilets.

Householder application for the proposed erection of a single storey side extension and a single storey rear extension with 2 no. rooflights, plus changes to fenestration.

Application to vary conditions 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10 of planning consent 191963 for the proposed erection of 1 no. dwelling and outbuilding following demolition of existing dwelling and garage.

Conditions 2 refers to approved details, 3 to details of the new outbuilding, 4 to details of the building to be relocated, 5 to the timber frame, 6 to archaeological works, 7 to the tree protection plan, 8 to external materials, 9 to boundary treatments and 10 to landscaping.

Householder application for the proposed erection of a first floor extension, conversion of carport to create habitable accommodation.

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 2nd July 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.

ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 WOKINGHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL (WHISTLEY GREEN, HURST) (TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF DRIVING) ORDER 2020

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:

NOTICE IS HEREBY given that on the 4th June 2020 Wokingham Borough Council as Traffic Authority made an Order under Section 14 (1) (a) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 the effect of which is to prohibit any vehicle from proceeding along:

1. Whistley Green, Hurst between its junctions with A321 Broadwater Lane and B3030 Lodge Road.

Emmbrook Road, Wokingham between its junctions with A329 Reading Road and Lowther Road.

2. Broadwater Lane, Hurst between its junctions with A321 Broadwater Lane and B3030 Lodge 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.

The alternative route for all vehicles affected by these restrictions shall be via A321 Broadwater Lane and B3030 Lodge Road or by this route in reverse.

Works requiring this restriction will take place between 29th June and 30th June 2020 between 09:30 and 15:30.

The reason for these prohibitions is to allow BT contractors to undertake underground cabling and connection work in safety.

The reason for these prohibitions is to allow BT contractors to undertake Openreach maintenance work in safety.

Access for residents and businesses within the boundaries of these restrictions will be maintained at all times.

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 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 29th 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 11th June 2020 Mark Cupit, Assistant Director – Delivery and Infrastructure Wokingham Borough Council Civic Offices Shute End Wokingham Berkshire RG40 1WL

Date: 11th June 2020

SERVICES

Works requiring this restriction will take place between 15th June and 19th June 2020 between 21:00 and 06:00

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 11th June 2020 Mark Cupit, Assistant Director – Delivery and Infrastructure Wokingham Borough Council Civic Offices Shute End Wokingham Berkshire RG40 1WL

How to remove barbecue stains

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ITH barbecue season upon us, Brits will be dusting off their tongs and selecting the best cuts of meat.

However, barbecue's can be a messy and sticky affair and result in unfortunate spills and stains.

Time is of the essence – all stains will become harder to remove as they dry, and some of them will undergo chemical reactions which make them all but impossible to shift, so you will need to act fast.

Cleaning and laundry experts Dr Beckmann have identified the stains you’re most likely to encounter during the hot weather and shared their top 10 tips on how to tackle them.

Dr. Beckmann spokesperson, Susan Fermor said: “Everyone loves the hot weather and a barbecue, but with excitement in the air things can turn messy very quickly.

“Follow our top tips to ensure your sticky, muddy barbeque stains are quickly forgotten about, so you can make the most of having fun in the sun.”

Ketchup The most common barbecue stain, ketchup needs to be treated as soon as possible. Carefully clear any excess from

the area, being sure not to spread the mark. Gently rub some washing-up liquid into the area, before rinsing with cold water.

stain and scrub repeatedly.

It’s always handy to have Dr. Beckmann’s Carpet Stain Remover in the cupboard to tackle those tricky stains.

and then scrape off the dried dirt, before washing the clothes as normal.

Meat

Always clear any excess grass or dirt away from the area – taking care to avoid worsening any marks.

Grass stains can be particularly hard, so you’ll definitely benefit from pre-soaking the area with a mixture of one-part spirit vinegar to two parts warm water for around 30 minutes.

There isn’t a barbecue without some meat, however red meat stains such as burgers, steaks and lamb kebabs can be a nightmare to remove.

Cooked meat produces an oily stain, so make sure to blot repeatedly to absorb as much oil as possible.

Once you’ve finished soaking up the oil with a cloth, treat the stain with a stain remover and let it work its magic for 10-15 minutes and then wash.

Fruit Juice

Flowers

Ice Lolly/Cream

As long as you keep it moist, you should be able to shift most fruit juice stains. Simply pop on a hot wash or soak in vinegar if the stain is a dark fruit.

Summer means the flowers are blooming, but these beautiful plants can leave a permanent stain on your clothes if not treated quickly.

Blot the stained fabric with a damp cloth then prepare to wash the garment.

Use a stain remover to help break apart the stain.

An ice lolly mixed with sweltering heat is an episode for disaster. ash the spilled area with a laundry detergent and water, then use a cloth to help tackle the stain. To finish off, rinse the surface thoroughly with water and allow to dry.

Wine A cold glass of white wine is a popular beverage at a barbecue.

If you have an unfortunate spillage, make sure you blot the alcohol with a cloth until the liquid is absorbed, then sponge with cold water.

Treat the stain with a stain remover, such as Dr. Beckmann’s Stain Devils Fruit & Drink, to do the trick.

Chocolate After the barbecue comes dessert and chocolate is bound to be the token ingredient – who doesn’t love chocolate?

However, combined with the hot weather this may get trodden into the carpet or spilt onto the sofa, but don’t panic this can be scrubbed right out.

Scrape any excess chocolate off the stain, then blot the mark with a damp cloth. Finally apply a stain remover to the

Grass

Mud When the sun is out, the garden is calling. Playing sports can lead to slidetackles, diving and falling over, which creates an opportunity for mud to get on your clothes. Remember, resist the temptation to wipe at the stain. Let it dry

Sun Cream This oily substance can be a real pain to remove from clothes. Your best bet is to use a stain remover such as Dr Beckmann’s Stain Devils Fat & Sauces, which cuts through and lifts the oils in sun creams with ease, making the stain a distant memory.

26 | PROPERTY

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FOOTBALL

SAILING

Champions! Finches crowned virtual winners

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokinghampaper.co.uk FINCHAMPSTEAD Football Club have been crowned as the county’s virtual football champions in an online tournament.

The Football in Berkshire FA Virtual Cup, which has brought the football community together to vote for their clubs over the last two months in the absence of real football was concluded on Sunday in the final between Finchampstead and Caversham Town.

With 1,475 votes cast in the final, the Finches came out as victors with 53.8% of the vote to Caversham’s 46.2%, while Binfield finished in fourth after

losing the third place play-off to Old Windsor.

The tournament not only captured the attention of football sides around the country, but globally with professional German club FC Cologne,

who compete in Germany’s top division (Bundesliga) pledging their support on Twitter to Caversham in the final tweeting: “Up the Billy Goats!”

But it was the Thames Valley Premier League side,Finchampstead, who took the crown in the virtual competition after tens of thousands of votes throughout the contest.

Finchampstead tweeted via their account: “We really appreciate the support we’ve had over the last few weeks in this, it’s been a blast during these times. Thanks again to @fiberkshire.

“This coverage has boosted our following and we hope to see a few more faces at the memorial ground when we’re safe to return.”

FOOTBALL

Boars appoint management duo for development team EVERSLEY & California FC have confirmed that Mike Aspell and Andy Millers will join the club to manage the club’s development side.

The pair, who formerly managed Thatcham Town’s Development side, will take control of the young Boars side who currently compete in the Suburban Football League central division.

In a statement released on the club’s twitter page they confirmed the news of the development side’s new management duo.

“The club are pleased to announce that former Thatcham Town Development

duo, Mike Aspell and Andy Millers, have joined the club.

“Mike and Andy will build a competitive team in the Suburban League and they will work closely with the first team manager, Matty Angell, to bring through talented players from the clubs youth to push for the first team places.

“The club has full faith in both Mike and Andy and we look forward to seeing their talents prevail.

“Scott Kemp and Suj Khera will both be staying with the club with their positions to be announced on Friday.”

FOOTBALL

Woodley Royals on lookout for new manager

Woodley United Royals in action against Finchampstead.

Picture: Steve Smyth

WOODLEY Royals, who compete in step seven of the football pyramid in the Thames Valley Premier League, are inviting coaches to send in applications for its vacant position of team manager.

The manager will be required to work closely with manager of the first team Jamie Williams, who took over the position of first team boss having previously been gaffer of the Royals.

A statement on the club’s website reads: “The successful applicant will be required to work

closely with both the first team and ‘A’ team managers in the development of players to provide a pathway for youngsters to progress from the club’s youth section into open age football.

“In exchange guidance and support will be given to help the manager develop their coaching career.” � Interested applicants should apply to Woodley United chairman Colum Moon by emailing: colum.moon1@virginmedia.com They should include details of their coaching career and qualifications.

Sailors make a splash with return to action MEMBERS of the Island Sailing Club were able to sail on their lake at Pingewood last Sunday for the first time since the Coronavirus lockdown began.

The latest relaxation of Government restrictions meant that they could take the water again, and club ensured that appropriate guidelines were observed to ensure the members’ safety.

The club said that a good number of people turned up, some just to check on their boats and others to see how the social distancing would work. This meant a smaller number than usual took to the water for the races.

These were all single-handers, two-man boats are only allowed if crewed by members of the same household.

Two races were planned and the first one was held in sunshine and a gentle breeze, with Ian Wickens becoming the clubs first post lockdown winner.

Unfortunately, the second race had to be abandoned after the wind died and it started to rain.

Racing will continue each weekend and now that members can see that the new regulations can work, it is hoped that more will return to take part.

30 | SPORT

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FA WOMEN’S SUPER LEAGUE

Royals Women to release eight first-team players

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokinghampaper.co.uk

READING Women have announced that eight first team players will leave the club when their contracts expire in the summer.

The announcement comes following the early conclusion to the FA Women’s Super League 2019/20 season which saw the Royals finish in fifth position.

Long term servants Remi Allen and Charlie Estcourt will both leave the club as well as Rachael Laws, Mayumi Pacheco, Millie Farrow, Jo Potter, Sophie Howard and Maxime Bennink.

Of the eight players leaving, Allen has racked up the most

WSL appearances for the Royals, scoring 10 goals in 52 games.

Reading Women’s manager Kelly Chambers said: “I would personally like to put on record a massive thank you to all the players; every single one of them has played a huge part in the success and development of our club.

“I cannot thank them enough for all their efforts and what they have given to myself as manager, the team and the club as a whole during their careers at Reading.

“It is never easy saying goodbye to players, but I would like to personally wish them all the best in Remi Allen and Maz Pacheco are among the eight players to be released by Reading Women. Pictures: Neil Graham their next adventure.”

READING FC

ROYALS

Season ticket holders get TV access for remaining games

Bowen prepares squad ahead of Championship return

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokinghampaper.co.uk ROYALS season ticket holders will be able to view all nine remaining games via live streams when the Championship season resumes on Saturday June 20.

Season ticket holders will be given access to all home and away Championship matches via iFollow stream. All Championship clubs season ticket holders will be given unprecedented access to watch the conclusion of the 2019/20 campaign.

A statement released by the EFL reads: “The Championship season will resume behind closed doors on Saturday 20th June live on Sky Sports, and work has been undertaken to ensure Season Ticket holding supporters are given the opportunity not to miss any of the action, whether the games take place home or away.”

Sky Sports will also be broadcasting 30 of the remaining 108 fixtures to be played in the Championship season.

The statement continues: “The 30 live League fixtures will also be streamed on a club's iFollow service, where access will be provided exclusively for Season Ticket holders.”

Non-season Ticket holding supporters will be able to purchase these games for the current match price pass of £10.

The fixture schedule is in the process of being finalised, alongside the revised broadcast sections, with EFL games set to take place at the following times: � Friday – 6pm and 8pm � Saturday –12.30pm, 3pm and 5.30pm � Sunday – noon. � Tuesday – 5pm, 6pm and 8pm. � Wednesday – 5pm, 6pm and 8pm.

Football league chair Rick Parry said: “I would firstly like to thank the team at Sky Sports for their patience and support while we have worked through some of the complex issues surrounding our agreement that have arisen as a result of live sport being unable

to take place due to the current crisis.

“There is no question that Covid-19 has detrimentally affected all industries and, whilst we have only ever wanted to return when it is safe to do, we have always understood that when we did, we had to balance the requirements of our broadcast partners with the unique and challenging financial circumstances that our Clubs face.

Sky Sports Managing Director Rob Webster said: “The partnership between Sky Sports and the EFL supports clubs and their communities across the country. We are pleased to have reached a solution which works for them; and appreciate the positive and collaborative spirit of the negotiations.

“The availability for existing Season Ticket holders to stream matches from their Club platform will compliment Sky Sports in telling the complete story of the climax to season.”

Reading will restart their season on Saturday, June 20 against Stoke City.

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokinghampaper.co.uk

READING MANAGER Mark Bowen is prepared for the restart of the Championship season after the Royals stepped up their preparations this week.

With safety measures still in place, Championship clubs have however been able to progress in their preparation with contact training starting to be introduced ahead of a return to action next weekend.

Reading return to action behind closed doors against Stoke City on Saturday, June 20.

“Things have changed, we've had more contact in training,” said Bowen.

“This week we've progressed into different situations that the players have been thriving in with more competitiveness.

“We have the aim or getting one or two friendly matches in before we progress to the final

week before we face Stoke City.”

Bowen explained the challenges facing the club ahead of an unprecedented time which has brought about a three month break in play.

He continued: “It's new to everybody and everyone is trying to do the right thing. We have to try and make sure we are best prepared for when the season starts.

“We’re all in this together for the love of the game,make sure we're as safe as possible and get football started again.

“It’s going to be a difficult period.

We have to cope with testing situations where we may lose one or two players. I’m sure there will be some strange results from now until the end of the season, but hopefully it won’t affect us too much.

“The Premier League announced that they would have five substitutions available and that has been talked about for us, I’m not sure if it's been confirmed yet but personally I think that would help.”

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Fixture dates released ahead of Championship return

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokinghampaper.co.uk

THE fixtures for Reading’s remaining nine games in the season have been confirmed ahead of a return to Championship action on Saturday, June 20.

Reading’ face Stoke City in their first of nine fixtures to conclude the 2019/20 Championship season. Picture: Steve Smyth

RUGBY

New backs coach for Bracknell BRACKNELL Rugby Club has announced that it has added Alex Fieldhouse to join the club as their Backs Coach.

Alex, who is a level three RFU coach will join the coaching staff at Bracknell to help coach the first team who are preparing for the 2020/21 season after the

2019/20 season was ended abruptly by covid-19.

The former National League One player will try to help the Stags to an improved campaign next season after they finished bottom of the division in 13th place in the South West Premier last season.

LONDON IRISH

Maddison set to make switch back to Ealing LONDON IRISH are set to see Barney Maddison and Belgium Tuatagloa depart the club at the end of the 2019/20 season.

Second row forward Maddison, who joined the Exiles back in the summer of 2018, will be making the switch back to Ealing Trailfinders on a long term deal.

Meanwhile, winger Belgium Tuatagloa, who joined Irish on a short term deal at the turn of the year, will ply his trade in France’s second division of rugby next season with Rouen Normandie.

The winger made just three starts for Irish before the Premiership season was suspended due to the Covid-19 pandemic in March.

Woo

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READING FC

The Royals will start with a home fixture against Stoke City, with kick-off at the traditional time of 3pm.

Mark Bowen’s side are currently in 14th position in the league with nine games left to play. They sit nine points above the relegation zone and eight points away from the play-off places.

Reading will not feature in the live TV selections in the first three fixtures, however the six games that follow in July are currently subject to change in accordance to TV selections.

Reading’s remaining fixtures, all of which to be played behind closed doors: � Reading v Stoke City – Saturday, June 20, 3pm � Derby County v Reading— Saturday, June 27, 1pm � Reading v Brentford, Tuesday, June 30, 6pm � Luton Town v Reading, Saturday, July 4, 3pm � Reading v Huddersfield Town, Tuesday, July 7, 7.45pm � Charlton Athletic v Reading, Saturday, July 11, 3pm � Reading v Middlesbrough, Tuesday, July 14, 8pm � Blackburn Rovers v Reading, Saturday, July 18, 3pm � Reading v Swansea City, Wednesday, July 22, Kick off TBC.

SPORT | 31

Barney Maddison will join Ealing Trailfinders for the start of the 2020/21 season. Picture: Steve Smyth

3

ROYALS RELEASE EIGHT

Shake-up planned for Women’s team after season brought to an end • P30

PITCH PERFECT CASH BOOST HELPS CLUB GROUNDS

Wokingham & Emmbrook in Hellenic League action at Lowther Road in the 2019/20 season. Picture: Graham Tabor

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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