Wokingham Today, December 30, 2021

We wish all our readers and advertisers a safe and a Happy New Year

2021

UPDATED DAILY AT WWW.WOKINGHAM.TODAY

THE VOICE OF THE BOROUGH

Thursday, December 30, 2021 No. 344 90p

The year in review

ISSN 2634-8330 52

9 772634 833019

2 | NEWS

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, December 30, 2021

No bleak midwinter as villagers team-up for carol singing fun CAROL singing at a Hurst pub was a tradition enthusiastically kept alive this month.

On Sunday, December 19, The Castle Inn, opposite St Nicholas Church welcomed villagers for a mulled wine and a festive sing-a-long.

The carolling event has been held for many years in the run-up to Christmas.

Warming by a flaming fire pit outside the pub, churchwarden Sue Payne said: “We couldn’t do LIVE: Hope Lawrence accompanying the carols this last year because of covid.

This year we decided to bring the event outside so we could still be covid cautious.”

Among those leading the singing were Mrs Payne and Claire Lawrence, with Hope Lawrence on the keyboard.

St Nicholas Church’s associate priest, the Revd Graham Theobald, said: “It’s a lovely community event that sets everyone in the spirit of Christmas.”

WE COVER WOKINGHAM BOROUGH

SINGING: St Nicholas’ churchwarden Jenny Beasley-Smith and associate priest Graham Theobald in the foreground Pictures: Sue Corcoran

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

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.

Christmas chemists rota for Wokingham and surrounds

New Year’s Day, Saturday, January 1

CROWTHORNE – Dukes Pharmacy, Dukes Ride RG45 6DS. 9am-2pm.

Details: 01344 776622.

CROWTHORNE – HA Mcparland Ltd, High Street RG45 7AY. 9am-5pm.

Details: 01344 779007.

CROWTHORNE – Lloyds Pharmacy, High Street RG45 7AY. 9am5.30pm. Details: 01344 772432.

EARLEY – Boots The Chemist, The Parade, Silverdale Road RG6 7NZ. 9am-5.30pm. Details: 0118 926 2146.

FINCHAMPSTEAD – Day Lewis Pharmacy, Finchampstead Surgery, Finchampstead Road RG40 3RG. 7am-10.30pm. Details: 0118 973 5455.

FINCHAMPSTEAD – Jats Pharmacy, Finchampstead Road RG40 3RB. 9am-1pm. Details: 0118 973 5455.

LOWER EARLEY – Asda Pharmacy, Chalfont Way RG6 5TT. 7am10pm. Details: 0118 987 0300.

LOWER EARLEY – Boots The Chemist, Asda Mall, Chalfont Way RG6 5GA. 8.30am-1pm, 2pm7pm. Details: 0118 931 1750.

SHINFIELD – Vantage Chemist, Shinfield Road RG2 8HD. 9am-5pm.

Details: 0118 987 2850.

TWYFORD – Fields Pharmacy, Longfield Road RG10 9AN. 9am-1pm.

Details: 0118 934 1222.

TWYFORD – Newdays Pharmacy, London Road RG10 9EH. 9am-noon, 2pm-6pm. Details: 0118 934 5750.

WARGRAVE – Lloyds Pharmacy, Victoria Road RG10 8AE. 9amnoon. Details: 0118 940 3557.

WINNERSH – Lloyds Pharmacy, Sainsbury’s, King Street Lane RG41 5AR. 8am-6pm. Details:

0118 977 5276.

WOKINGHAM – Boots The Chemist, Market Place RG40 1AT. Details: 8.30am-5.30pm. 0118 978 4294.

WOKINGHAM – Rose Street Pharmacy, Wokingham Medical Centre, Rose Street RG40 1XS. 8am-9pm. Details: 0118 907 8188.

WOKINGHAM – Tesco Pharmacy, Tesco, Finchampstead Road RG40 2NS. 6.30am-10pm.

Details: 0345 677 9724.

WOKINGHAM – Wokingham Pharmacy, Broad Street RG40 1AU. 9am-1pm.

Details: 0118 978 7459.

WOODLEY – Boots The Chemist, Crockhamwell Road RG5 3JP. 8.30am-5.30pm. Details: 0118 969 5253.

WOOSEHILL – Morrisons, Woosehill

Court RG41 3SW. 9am-4pm.

Details: 0118 979 4288.

Bank Holiday Monday, January 3

CROWTHORNE – HA Mcparland Ltd, High Street RG45 7AY. 10am4pm. Details: 01344 779007.

LOWER EARLEY – Asda Pharmacy, Chalfont Way RG6 5TT. 7am10pm. Details: 0118 987 0300.

WINNERSH – Lloyds Pharmacy, Sainsbury’s, King Street Lane RG41 5AR. 10am-4pm. Details: 0118 977 5276.

WOKINGHAM – Tesco Pharmacy, Tesco, Finchampstead Road RG40 2NS. 9am-1pm. Details: 0345 677 9724.

WOODLEY – Boots The Chemist, Crockhamwell Road RG5 3JP. 10am-4pm. Details: 0118 969 5253.

WOOSEHILL – Morrisons, Woosehill Court RG41 3SW. 9am5pm. Details: 0118 979 4288. n Details subject to change according to covid situation

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Front garden concert raises more than £500 for Macmillan EXCLUSIVE

By SUE CORCORAN news@wokingham.today A FESTIVE concert held in a Twyford front garden rocked the rooftops for charity this month.

The evening event was organised

by Jacky Crossman, with around 100 passers by stopping to enjoy the music.

It raised £546 for the Macmillan nurses charity.

Woodley u3a guitar group, named The Senior Moments for the evening, were among the performers.

Two of their players gave a “rocktastic rendition” of Run Rudolph Run, said Ms Crossman.

She had transformed her front garden at Cheriton Avenue by putting up gazebos festooned with lights.

Ms Crossman, helped by her husband Ray and neighbours Sheila and Alan Dear, was inspired by Ms Dear’s earlier Macmillan fundraising.

As director and founder of The High Voltage Singers, Ms Crossman organised for the Twyford Youth Centre-based choir to perform Christmas songs in four part harmony.

And there were carols for everyone to join in with.

The choir’s keyboard player also accompanied the Run Rudolph Run performance.

Twyford Round Table brought Father Christmas and his sleigh to add to the fun.

SEALED: More than 40 manholes will be improved

GIVING: The event was in support of Macmillan

CHARITY: Fatrher Christmas came along for the fundraiser “I’d like to say a big thank you to them, The High Voltage Singers, The Senior Moments and all who helped sell sausage rolls, mince pies and raffle tickets,” said Ms Crossman.

“I’d always had it in the back of

SING SONG: Performances drew in 100 visitors

my mind to do something in my front garden for a charity. Last year it was thwarted at the last minute by covid restrictions and I had to cancel.”

The concert, held earlier in December, was a huge success.

“The neighbours said it was wonderful and it wasn’t often you got evenings like that,” she added.

Ms Crossman said that the choir’s 2018 visit to Cuincy in France was the first by a Twyford group under the towns’ twin.

Senior citizens enjoy a right festive feast thanks to Age Concern A TWYFORD charity was able to spread a little festive joy to its members earlier this month, writes Natalie Burton.

Twyford and District Age Concern was able to serve traditional Christmas roast lunches to 60 senior citizens from across the area after they missed out last year.

It was a covid safe and socially distanced week of lunches in their day centre, on Polehampton Close.

They served roast turkey with all the trimmings,

followed by Christmas pudding top small groups of diners every day from Monday, December 13 to Friday, December 17.

Centre manager Debs Heffernan said that the past 18 months have been incredibly challenging for the centre and its members.

“To finally be able to offer Christmas lunches and receive the thanks of our members for caring was a real privilege for us,” she said. n For more information, visit: ageconcerntwyford.org.uk

FEAST: Staff and members of Twyford Age Concern enjoyed the return of their annual Christmas dinner

Three Mile Cross manholes sealed to prevent sewage flooding THAMES Water is sealing 40 manholes to protect Three Mile Cross residents from flooding.

The company says that homes, businesses and the environment in an area will be better protected from sewer flooding thanks to the £120,000 project.

Watertight grouting is being used to prevent surface water overwhelming the sewer network during times of heavy rain.

The scheme, which began earlier in the month, will reduce the risk of external sewer flooding for properties in the area, as well as reducing pressure on the nearby sewage pumping station and Reading sewage works.

By sealing the manholes, rain water will drain into the surface water sewer system and flow directly to nearby water courses.

The aim is to keep the foul sewers free to carry waste from toilets, baths and household appliances and reducing the risk of them filling up and overflowing.

Bob Cunningham, Thames Water’s operations specialist, said the company is committed to alleviating sewage discharges.

“I’m pleased we’ve started this project to help protect homes and businesses in Three Mile Cross,” he said. “We’re keen to play our full part in protecting and enhancing the environment and we hope residents feel reassured by the work we’re doing and investment in our network. There’s still more to do but we’re making great progress.”

The project is part of Thames Water’s work to strengthen the sewer network.

4 | NEWS

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, December 30, 2021

SUPPORT LOCAL NEWS

Make it your New Year’s Resolution to buy Wokingham.Today every week Mental health help WOKINGHAM Recovery College has launched its new prospectus with details of courses between January and April next year.

The college runs a range of free training to support various aspects of mental health, which cover wellbeing, creativity, life skills and next steps.

Offerings include living a stress-less life, journalling, managing low moods and anxiety, and how to be more assertive.

Courses will be run in person and online.

The college aims to support people through their mental health recovery journey and advise those who wish to learn more.

Classes are devised and delivered by mental health professionals, and people with personal experiences of mental health. They wish to offer a safe space for discussion, to help people to become experts in their own self-care, and enable a better understanding of mental health.

The courses are open to all residents of Wokingham borough over 18. n For more details, visit: wokingham.gov.uk/health/ health-services-and-advice/ wokingham-recovery-college

Spring fashion show A WOKINGHAM charity is hosting a fashion show.

Wade, which runs a day centre for elderly residents, is running the charity event in spring.

There will be a catwalk show, followed by an opportunity for guests to try and buy some of the clothes.

Tickets cost £10 and must be bought in advance.

It includes a glass of wine or soft drink, and nibbles.

It will be held on Thursday, April 7, at the Reading Road site. Doors open at 7pm for a 7.30pm start. n To book, visit: www. wadecentre.org.uk/events.php

Reading Buses raises fares — but better deal for borough travellers

By JESS WARREN jwarren@wokingham.today

CHANGES: The new zone will apply to customers travelling into Reading from Wokingham, Arborfield, Shinfield, Spencers Wood, Burghfield Common and Sonning Common. Picture: Phil Creighton

BUS FARES are to rise in the New Year, a move Reading Buses says is a “difficult decision” from the company.

Single fares will generally increase by 10p, and return or day tickets will generally increase by 20p.

But Robert Williams, Reading Buses CEO, said that there is some good news for customers.

Fares bought on mobile phones will be the cheapest option across the board, with many of these frozen on the app.

A new Simply Wokingham and Reading Zone will replace the replaces the SimplyNetwork Zone for many customers, a move the company says will save money for customers.

It would mean paying £19.50 for a seven-day ticket rather than the current £20.

“There are some real positives to be taken from the fares change,” Mr Williams said. “Our app prices, for the most part, will be frozen to allow many to continue paying the same amount as they are currently doing.”

The new Simply Wokingham and Reading Zone will apply to customers travelling into Reading from Wokingham, Arborfield, Shinfield, Spencers Wood, Burghfield Common and Sonning Common.

Mr Williams said these travellers will see their fares reduced for period tickets.

“We have managed to keep many fares the same such as the great value simplyReading and simplyNetwork group tickets,” he added. “It’s worth remembering that fares have not changed for at least two years, and many for even longer than that.

“But the last two years have been extremely hard for everyone and this

Council releases video on local plan questions PROPOSALS for new homes in the borough have been explored at a public meeting which residents can watch back online.

Wokingham Borough Council is working through a nine-week consultation on a revised growth strategy, which will shape development for years to come.

Earlier this month, a virtual information event was recorded. It includes a detailed outline by officers and members of the council’s

decision-making executive of what is being put forward.

In the video, they also answer resident questions and explain why the council is concentrating most development in major new communities.

This is now available to watch on the council’s website.

The proposals include building 4,500 new homes on land south of the M4 between Shinfield, Arborfield and Sindlesham, known as Hall Farm.

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has equally been the same for Reading Buses.”

Mr Williams said that while the company receives some covid recovery funding, it has not covered the network running costs since September.

“As a result we are having to make the difficult decision to change some fares to help close the gap,” he explained.

There are no changes to simplyUni prices. The simplyReading seven-day easysaver 10 and daysaver5tickets will

The aim is that at least 2,200 would be built by 2038, plus a further 800 within the existing South Wokingham development. Other sites across the borough are also being considered.

Cllr Wayne Smith, executive member for planning and enforcement at the council, said that he is pleased to make a recording available to residents, who can watch at a convenient time.

“Sharing your views will help us shape the new Local Plan to meet your needs,” he said.

Residents can have their say until Monday, January 24. n To find out more, visit: engage. wokingham.gov.uk

be frozen at £16. The group ticket for up to four people remains £9 peak, £6 off-peak. And the simplyReading zone is being extended to Sonning to allow customers to use Thames Valley Buses services 127/8/9.

Adult tickets on Winnersh Triangle park & ride will be frozen. But boost singles and returns will increase.

The new fares begin from Monday, January 3. n For more, visit: reading-buses.co.uk

Join a Winter 5 trail run RUNNERS have been reminded that it is not too late to sign up for the Winter 5 series at Dinton Pastures.

The Enterprise Accountant’s Winter 5 is a series of four monthly runs.

The first took place in November.

The route is a five-mile (8km) multi-terrain course around the country park, covering mud, paths, fields and a flight of stairs.

There is also a 5km (3.1 mile) course for children between the ages of five and 15.

And there is an option to

take part virtually for both distances.

The remaining two events take place on Sunday, January 9 and Sunday, February 13. Both begin at 9.30am.

All finishers will have the opportunity to dedicate a tree from The National Forest or receive a medal.

The series has been organised by Barnes Fitness. n For more information, visit: barnesfitness.co.uk/ enterprise-accountants-winter5-series

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Elderly man assaulted as burglar steals jewellery

ALL TOGETHER: The annual event is a family occasion Pictures: Chris Drew

Santas dash through Dinton Pastures

RUNNERS dressed in festive costumes took over Dinton Pastures earlier this month.

On Sunday, December 18, the Hurst country park played host to 400 fun-runners dressed as Santa — and a few other seasonal characters — for the Barnes Fitness Santa Dash. They were even treated to a snowy start on their morning exercise, courtesy of a snow machine.

The dash raised £1,750 for First Days Children’s Charity.

The Wokingham-based organisation received £2 from each entry fee as well as

benefitting from sponsorship and other donations.

Money will go towards reducing the effects of poverty on children in Wokingham borough and beyond.

Organiser Ellie Barnes, said that it was relief to finally put on a fun and festive event.

“I’d like to thank Wokingham Borough Council’s public health team for their advice on how to make the event as covid-safe as possible,” she said.

“We had lots of feedback saying that the Santa Dash has become a Christmas tradition

of theirs and that people were happy to be back.”

The dash was a virtual race last year, with 300 participants.

Ms Barnes kept the virtual fun-run this year, which saw 100 more Santas dash around a route of their choosing.

“Our furthest afield entry was from Toulouse, so we’re definitely going to keep the online option for the future,” she explained.

After crossing the finish line, runners were rewarded with a medal, a mince pie and more snow. The event was sponsored

by The Flatman Partnership.

The Chequers wins sustainability award

Fun-runners walked, ran or jumped The Santa Dash is for all festive around the route fun-runners

Santas assembled and ready to dash

POLICE are appealing for information after an elderly man was assaulted and burgled.

At around 10am on Wednesday, December 15, a man in his 90s returned to his home on Binfield Road, Keephatch, to find a broken panel in his front door.

As he has opened the door, an man charged down the stairs towards him, assaulted him then ran up Binfield Road towards Barratt Crescent.

The victim was checked over by ambulance staff, but he was uninjured.

Several items of jewellery and a watch were stolen.

The watch was inscribed with “PRESENTED TO [victim’s name] ON HIS RETIREMENT FROM EASTERN AND SONS” on the back.

A 23-year-old man from Wokingham has been arrested in connection with this incident and has been released on police bail until Wednesday, January 12.

Investigating officer Richard Fisher, based at Loddon Valley police station appealed for anyone with dash cam footage to get in touch with the police. n Residents can call 101 or make a report online, quoting reference number 43210565006.

By JESS WARREN jwarren@wokingham.today

A PUB in Eversley Cross has been officially recognised for its sustainability focus.

The Chequers has been awarded a Three Star Food Made Good rating by the Sustainable Restaurant Association.

The pub and its owner Peach Pubs were given the accolade for its work over 10 environmental and ethical topics.

These ranged from celebrating local and seasonal produce, and sourcing fish responsibly, to treating its people fairly and eliminating food waste.

When combined to provide an overall performance across sourcing, society and environment, Peach and the pub were given a Food Made Good Rating of 73%, earning them Three Stars.

“It’s fantastic news to be given a Three Star Food Made Good rating,” said general manager Patrycja Gajda. “It is doubly significant after what has been a year like no other for the hospitality industry.

“We are hugely proud that what we have been doing to be a better business and put the planet first have been

WINNER: The Chequers has been celebrated Picture: Peach Pubs recognised in this way.

“It is tremendous encouragement from the Sustainable Restaurant Association and we shall be working with them over the year ahead to be even better and improve our scores in areas we need to.

“In the meantime, we shall be celebrating this excellent news with our team and with our guests.”

The award also looked at the staff, who have been busy volunteering and cooking takeaways for local residents when under lockdown.

This included delivering free meals to frontline NHS workers.

Juliane Caillouette-Noble, managing director of the Sustainable Restaurant Association said that Peach Pubs was the first pub business to complete the Food Made Good sustainability rating after the pandemic.

“Peach truly is demonstrating to its customers, staff and industry colleagues that it is 100% committed to serving up a better food future,” she said. n For more information, visit: www.thechequerseversleycross. co.uk

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Retired police officer from Earley celebrated with lifetime award A RECENTLY retired police officer from Earley has been celebrated with a Life Time Achievement Award by Thames Valley Police.

Julie Susel said that she was humbled and honoured to receive the accolade.

“I feel privileged to have served my community, doing a job that I have loved,” she said.

“Some of the jobs I have dealt with during my career will stay with me forever and I will remember those people whose lives I touched and who have touched my heart.

“It is with great pride that I receive this award and I would like to sincerely thank all of my colleagues and friends within TVP and the multiagencies with whom I worked.”

Ms Susel thanked Cllr Clive Jones, Cllr David Hare, Cllr Andrew Mickleburgh and the chair to Earley Neighbourhood Action Group, Jim Willis for their support.

She said that they all helped her over the last 10 years, when she was working in Earley as the Neighbourhood Officer.

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CLASP organises month of festivities throughout December EXCLUSIVE

By JESS WARREN jwarren@wokingham.today MEMBERS of a disability advocacy group have been busy this December, in the lead up to Christmas.

Debs Morrison, CEO of CLASP, a charity that supports adults with learning disabilities, said that the group is seeing out the year with a bang.

On Tuesday, December 14, the group held its Christmas Extravaganza, which included bingo, a short nativity play, competitions and festive attire. That evening, members sung outside Tesco Wokingham to raise funds for the mayor’s charity of the year.

Later that week, the group performed outside of Wokingham town centre’s Waitrose, with some carol singing.

This week, CLASP held a coffee morning on Tuesday, and an art session yesterday. n For more information, visit: wokinghamclasp.org.uk

CELEBRATIONS: CLASP have been playing Christmas bingo, carol singing and dressing up for the occasion, with a range of activities organised throughout December Pictures: CLASP

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, December 30, 2021

REVIEW OF THE YEAR 2021: JANUARY

Remembering John Wood; the vaccination programme lifts off; snow comes and goes

T

HE year began on the sad note that John Wood had died on New Year’s Day. Famous for his support of the sporting community, he had played football for Fulham Juniors, Wimbledon and Sutton United. Locally, he ran the sports shop in Wokingham town centre for many years, launched a squash club in 1975, worked on the halfmarathon, and was a key part of Finchampstead FC. Truly a local legend.

Wokingham, like the rest of the country, began 2021 in another lockdown. Schools were closed after just a day of the new term starting, and the nation was ordered to stay at home unless there was a ‘reasonable excuse’ to go out. Wokingham MP Sir John Redwood had concerns about the damage lockdown would cause to economy. Charities continued to pull together through the One Front Door scheme to help vulnerable members of our community.

They included Wokingham Citizens Advice, Wokingham Foodbank, SHARE Wokingham and The Link Visiting Scheme.

We were at the very start of the vaccine roll-out programme, and UllaKarin

Above: Snow fell in the morning of Sunday, January 24, but it didn’t stick around for long – the thaw set in by lunchtime Left: We called on Wokingham Today readers to help local cafes, restaurants and takeaways by ordering a home delivery during the latest lockdown

Above: John Wood, a Wokingham legend who died on New Year’s Day Far left: The covid vaccination programme saw older and vulnerable residents get the jab first Left: A plan was announced to build a Lidl and 43 homes at Swallows Meadow Clark, the then executive member for children’s services at Wokingham Borough Council, called for teachers to be given priority for a jab.

Our January 14 issue launched a campaign for Wokingham residents to support local businesses.

Take Out To Help Out had a simple message, that’s just as important today. Order a takeaway to help hospitality businesses that are struggling due to the pandemic.

Under lockdown rules, there was no dining in allowed so click and collect, and home deliveries were vital lifelines for many businesses.

In the middle of all this, Wokingham gained a new Indian restaurant. Dabbawalla opened in Place Place on Thursday, January 14.

The venue is part of Wokingham town centre’s regeneration project, masterminded by the borough council. The scheme won an award for its housing at the Association for Public Service Excellence awards, one of a number of gongs the overall project would win this year.

Disease resistant trees were planted in the new Elms Field by the Wokingham District Veteran Tree Association.

The new lockdown rules looked like they were starting to take effect by mid-January as case numbers started to come down, vaccination centres were opening and 500 people had signed up to help out.

The virus was making its presence felt in many ways.

Families who received free school meals were given hampers as schools were remote learningonly. There was a national and local outcry at their contents, and slow delivery. Cllr UllaKarin Clark said the council was offering food vouchers as well as food parcels featuring recipe cards.

“We have reviewed the hampers to ensure they provide nutritious meals for children and are good value,” she said.

Labour’s then group leader, Cllr Andy Croy, called for families to be given cash, while Reading East MP Matt Rodda said was very disappointed with the situation: “It worries me deeply that the government is putting families last at this difficult time.”

A story that would rumble on across the year was the planned development of Swallows Meadows.

We exclusively broke

the news that Lower Earley Properties wanted to build a Lidl supermarket and 40 homes on the land off Meldreth Way. Announcing the scheme, Andy Jansons said he was delighted.

“We think our plans will provide a real boost to the local economy,” he said.

A petition against the scheme was immediately launched by the Save Swallows Meadow campaign.

A small story revealed that the new green recycling sacks would finally start to be delivered from February, replacing the black boxes that had been so familiar to residents. The old boxes could be kept and repurposed, or handed back for recycling.

Another award-winner was David Cliff Estate Agencies.

The Peach Street-based property company won Right Move’s Top Selling Agent honour for the Wokingham area, with the company helped by the Stamp Duty holiday and also being appointed selling agents for the Elms Field redevelopment homes.

The owner, David Cliff, said part of the reason for the firm’s success was its levels of communication, raising the bar during lockdowns to help both staff and clients. “As long as we

look after our clients and look after each other, it will be fine,” he said.

A special report focused on fears that a plan to build a bus lane bridge over the historic Kennetmouth canal would be revived.

Campaigning group SOAR were concerned that the first draft of the Local Green Space Topic Paper didn’t mention the area as one that should be protected. The council essentially gave a ‘watch this space’ reply, and the draft local plan update, published later in the year, revealed that the area would indeed be protected.

The best possible snowfall came and went within a day.

Residents woke up to a blanket of the white stuff on Sunday, January 24. The early morning snow started melting as the morning wore on and was mostly gone by the evening. However, there was enough for people to enjoy snowball fights, making snowmen and going sledging as our photos showed.

The impact of covid meant that the Lions felt they had to cancel the annual May Fayre for the second year in a row.

Organiser Ian Grange said it was a difficult to choice for the team to make, not least as the

day was meant to celebrate the 75th anniversary of VE Day, the end of the Second World War in Europe.

Another covid cancellation was the inperson ceremony for the annual Wokingham Town Civic Awards. Instead, Wokingham town mayor Cllr Tony Lack presented a virtual ceremony, revealing the seven winners, including Mr Grange.

Also among the winners were Rob and Sue Hughes for their work at Evendons Schools, Michael Saynor for his work with Holt Copse Conservation Volunteers, and Ken Rowlands for his work with the Evendons Neighbourhood Action Group.

Woodley’s branch of HSBC was earmarked for closure in June, but Nationwide in the precinct had a makeover which ensured it was planning to stick around.

Barclays also said there were no plans to shut its branch in the town, although its opening hours were adjusted due to covid.

Theatre continued, just online. With venues shut, members of Twyford and Ruscomebe Theatre group produced six short plays under the banner Fives Pints and a Pig.

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REVIEW OF THE YEAR 2021: FEBRUARY

Above: Spider-man drops in to clean the windows in Spencers Wood Below left: Council leader John Halsall gets his covid jab Below right: Shelagh Casebourne with her painting for the Sky Arts contest

Above: Gordon Storey with Theresa May Far left: Sasan StarrPadidar was preparing for a very severe hair and beard cut Left: Aldi introduced a new parking system that gave people £70 fines if they didn’t register their car

Twyford’s Champion Gordon remembered; Spidey cleans up; Aldi’s eye causes upset

W

OKINGHAM’S retail scene lost another clothes shop as New Look closed its doors, joining Marks & Spencer and Wallis as big names exiting the town.

The battle against covid continued, with new rapid testing sites cropping up across the borough, including Shute End, Dinton Pastures and Thames Valley Park. Some were temporary and others ran for longer.

One care home that had been seriously affected by covid, seeing 49 staff members and 40 residents catch the virus, said that the loss of life experienced would have been worse had it not been for the help it received from Wokingham Borough Council.

Sadly, 10 people had serious reactions to the virus and four died at Shinfield View in Shinfield. But staff praised the “quick action, clear guidance and abundance of support” from the council’s team.

Manager Amanda Tanner said: “I cannot thank them enough for their help and support and expertise.

“I attribute our managing of this situation to them.”

Our Take Out To Help Out campaign continued, with David Cliff Estate Agents

revealing that they had been running Support Local Fridays by ordering takeaways for breakfasts and lunches, in a bid to help independent businesses.

David Cliff said: “It’s not just about the takeaway, but the social interaction too.”

L’Ortolan in Shinfield was able to celebrate after learning its Michelin Star had been retained.

Organisers of Woodley Carnival were the latest group to announce that this year’s event was to be called off, however it is planning on returning on Saturday, June 11, and celebrating the 60s.

“This decision will incur a loss for the year,” organisers said.

Wargrave artist Shelagh Casebourne was over the moon to be selected as a wildcard entry into Sky Arts Landscape Artist of the Year contest, winning her heat and making it to the final.

“I told nobody about taking part,” she said. “Nobody could ask if I won... because they didn’t know I was doing it.”

February is also Feb-blueary for supporters of the Olly Young Foundation. Organisers ask people to wear something blue in memory of the Wokingham youngster who died of a brain tumour, and

make a donation to the charity.

We revealed that Olly’s Dad took the instruction literally and died his hair the right shade.

Twyford became the latest village to be awarded plasticfree status from Surfers Against Sewage as the fight against single-use plastic continued.

May’s local elections, delayed a year by covid, were to go ahead this year, and parties called for residents to register for a postal vote to help keep them safe and enable democracy to carry on as normal.

Meanwhile, Council leader John Halsall received his first dose of the covid vaccine. “I was delighted to have been called by my doctor,” he said.

“Please encourage everyone to have the jab.”

A warning was given to people using a town centre car park – it’s for shopping at a food store, not for Elms Field.

Aldi had installed cameras and fining drivers who failed to register their car at kiosks set up in the store. A number of readers had been caught out and forced to pay a fine of £70. The charge had been introduced because people had been using the shop’s car park as it was free and then going to other places within the town.

A name change made national headlines. Greene King announced that The Black Boy pub in Shinfield would be given a new moniker in light of the Black Lives Matter movement.

Three names were put out to public vote: The Shinfield Arms, the King’s Rest and The Merry Monarch. Each one referred to an aspect of the village’s heritage. However, the decision was not popular with the public, leading to headlines in the Daily Mail. The Shinfield Arms won the vote.

Wokingham Borough Council said it had no plans to rename the roundabout around the corner.

A big blow to Twyford’s community was the death of its champion, Gordon Storey.

Tributes included one from former Prime Minister and Maidenhead MP Theresa May, who said: “Gordon was a key figure in the Twyford. The village owes a great deal to Gordon, who did so much to bring the whole community together.”

There was more to Gordon than just being Mr Twyford. He was also a former Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Berkshire, among other roles.

There was bad news for council tax payers – the rate they pay was to rise 4.9%, the most it could go up by without

a local referendum. The rise was broken into two parts: the council’s rise was 1.99%, while 3% would go towards its work for adult social care. There were also rises to precepts, including an additional £15 for the police.

A scheme to build 100 eco-friendly homes on land in Toutley East was first announced by Wokingham Borough Council. The project would also include a care home and would sit on land between Toutley depot and the new Matthewsgreen primary school. Labour councillor Rachel Burgess had issues with the scheme’s location and its green credentials, saying residents had concerns about traffic and the loss of “precious” green space.

Spider-man took time off from saving New York to cleaning the borough’s windows. We revealed that Chris Smalley-Ward had taken to dressing up as the masked superhero to brighten up the days of children struggling with lockdown. The selfconfessed Marvel true believer said: “I think some parents enjoy it just as much as their children”.

A consultation event was held to allow residents to learn more about plans to bring Hollywood to the borough.

Shinfield Studios announced the event would unpack its plans for the 65-acre site at Thames Valley Science Park, which include 18 stages and offices to help create blockbuster movies on our doorstep. It’s expected to create 3,000 jobs and opportunities for students studying at the university.

Repair work at an historic pub revealed hidden details dating back to Tudor times.

The Castle Inn in Hurst used lockdown to renovate the building following water damage to the wooden beams and some brickwork. During the works, an old doorway was discovered and has been resinstated as an emergency exit. The pub is haunted, with two ghosts said to nestle among the spirits on sale.

One of the problems of lockdown was the closure of barbers and beauty salons. One Wokingham man had really let nature take its course, ending up with a big bushy beard and shaggy hair that made him look more like a castaway than the svelte man he was previously.

Sasan Starr-Padidar decided to shave it off to mark the first day of spring, and the Persian new year to raise funds for Crowthorne-based Sebastian’s Action Trust. He raised more than £1,000 in the process.

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REVIEW OF THE YEAR 2021: MARCH

Banksy’s creation is a big draw; row over school catchment zones; Pistol brushes up

O

UR first issue of March contained two different messages.

One the one hand, research by the Office of National Statistics (ONS) revealed that Wokingham borough was the healthiest place to live, something council leader John Halsall said was “great news”.

On the other side of the front page was a warning for people not to have picnics in parks, due to covid.

Wokingham Borough Council said “please don’t come to country parks to meet large groups for recreation”. The warning came after spring weather tempted people out of their homes for some daily exercise.

To help manage numbers, Dinton Pastures’ overflow car park was closed and a ticketing service was introduced to the play park to help maintain safe numbers, given the ongoing nature of the pandemic.

The actions may seem extreme, but covid rates were on the rise again, and the number of people nationwide who died with covid-related symptoms was also increasing.

To help people find out if they had covid or not, home testing kits were made available for the first time.

Initially these were from local sites or workplaces and pick-up slots had to be pre-booked.

St Teresa’s Catholic Academy in Wokingham set a challenge to its pupils over half-term, asking them to get active safely. The pupils rose to the occasion, dressing up, cycling 100km, completing 1,000 burpees, and running a family triathlon. The project raised more than £9,000, which went to paying for new video conferencing and IT equipment.

The home-learners were also preparing to return to the classroom from the second week in March and school buses also returned to use. Cllr UllaKarin Clark, the then executive member for children’s services at Wokingham Borough Council, said safety measures would be followed on buses and the council would help pupils return safely to school.

The annual problem for pupils moving on up also raised its head in Wokingham, as there weren’t enough places at The Piggott for Twyford pupils.

Cllr Clark said that 85% of Year 6 children received their first choice placement, and an increased birth rate had caused the problems for this cohort.

We also revealed that parents who moved into Arborfield Green expecting

Clockwise from left: St Teresa’s pupils had a half-term of fun activities; Banksy’s artwork attracted many admirers; Pistol painted new artwork in The Redan; A mobile was found after a decade and the photos reunited with its owner; Wokingham was named the healthiest place to live in the UK; Arborfield Green parents were unable to send their children to school 100m from their phome

their children to be able to attend the new community’s primary school were being school places elsewhere. Clare Bryant lived under 100 metres away from the new school and could see it from their home, but couldn’t get a place as it was oversubscribed. Priority went to children who attended Farley Hill Primary School, which was moving from the neighbouring village to the new development.

In happier news, a Winnersh resident was enjoying cuddles with her cat after bringing Stella home … from Somalia.

Karen Lewin spent 18 months with the British Embassy in Mogadishu, and grew very attached to the very affectionate moggie, Stella. But there was an altruistic reason for bringing Stella home: she needed treatment for an allergy that wasn’t available in the African country.

A bin lorry went up in smoke in Spencers Wood after a battery put in the rubbish caught fire. Cllr Parry Batth, executive member for environment and leisure, thanked fire crews for their swift action and the bin collectors for spotting the

fire early. “All residents should dispose of all batteries correctly”, he warned.

There was big news in our neighbouring town of Reading, when artwork by Banksy appeared on the wall of Reading Gaol. He was showing his support for the campaign to turn the derelict building into an arts centre and community hub and crowds flocked to see the amazing piece, depicting a convict escaping using a rope made from a typewritten manuscript. Sadly the work was defaced days later and it’s now behind a Perspex screen to protect it.

Fellow street artist Pistol returned to action, this time giving The Redan a lick of paint ready for hospitality venues to reopen. He said that The Redan was like a gallery in his hometown.

We like giving people something to look forward to, and it was thrilling to be able to share news that Twyford Beer Festival was planned to go ahead in the summer – days after the planned end of covid restrictions in June.

The volunteer-led event raises thousands for Orchid Male Cancer charity and was

one of the first festivals in the country for 2021.

Also planning a return was the annual Wokingham Fireworks event in November.

Organisers felt that it was possible to run the outdoor event safely, despite the covid threat.

And a week later, we revealed that Wokingham Festival was coming back as well, once again taking place over the August Bank Holiday weekend. Organiser Stan Hetherington was thrilled, saying: “As long as the (Government’s) road map doesn’t change, I’m very optimistic we will get there”.

But the first event that would take place was Wokingham Walk, which we exclusively announced in our March 25 edition.

The walk was so popular that they started planning an autumn event as well.

The Census, held every 10 years, was taking place and would, local organiser Jeremy May said, be crucial in giving a snapshot of life in the borough during an unprecedented time.

A 90-year-old marked his big birthday by getting active. The Revd Clifford Smith undertook

90 press-ups to raise funds for SalGO Assist, a charity that helps vulnerable children and young people in southern India.

He raised more than £1,000 for its work.

Police patrols in Woosehill were stepped up following concerns of knife crime.

Officers didn’t give details of the incidents, but we reported an unconfirmed mugging in the area, as well as breaches of covid rules, and anti-social behaviour.

It was also revealed that violent crime in Wokingham had risen 50% since 2018, despite CCTV being installed at various hotspots. There were 357 incidents in 2018, but 542 in 2020.

One impact of the pandemic was on taxi drivers. With people working from home, fares had declined and a number decided to hang up their car keys. Their situation was not helped by the council planning a rise in license fees.

The first anniversary of the first lockdown was marked with a special report looking at everything that happened over the past 12 months… it had been a very busy time.

A family were reunited with their mobile phone, and precious memories, after 10 years. Litter picker Tony Howells found the device while clearing rubbish from a gulley in Old Wokingham Road. The SD card installed inside the machine still worked and through it was able to track the owners, who lived in Jennetts Park before moving to Shanghai.

Wokingham Town Mayor Cllr Tony Lack was re-elected for a second year in the role, after his first had been hampered by covid. The decision was formally ratified at a meeting in May. A Wokingham couple made the most of lockdown by converting a delivery van into a camper van. George Douglas and Chloe Moore planned to use the van for their honeymoon after they got married in the autumn.

“There are so many nice places on our doorstep which we’d never been to,” George said of their motivation.

The couple charted progress with an online film series, Living Slow n Wild, gaining many fans in the process.

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REVIEW OF THE YEAR 2021: APRIL

Arborfield flats burn down; church hit by arsonist; while pubs prepare to re-open

T

HREE fires were reported in April. Two were serious, and it was miraculous that no-one was hurt in either of them.

Our April 1 issue showed the effects of a fire at St Paul’s in Reading Road, Wokingham.

Several items in the church were set on fire, including Victorian artefacts. However, the church kept calm and carried on with its preparations for Holy Week and Easter Sunday.

A week later, we reported that vandals torched the Latimer Road playground, melting a slide as the blaze got out of control.

However, it was a fire in Arborfield Green on Thursday, April 15 that will linger in the borough’s memory.

Nineteen flats at The Cavalry estate went up in smoke around 2.15pm. Firecrews battled to contain the blaze while residents watched in horror. It took seven hours to get the fire under control.

Charities and community groups immediately leapt into action to help affected residents. With the help of Church on the Green, affected people were able to collect clothing, bedding and food. The Cowshed set up an Amazon Gift List and a GoFundMe appeal was launched.

April Fools is a big tradition at Wokingham.Today and we managed to fool some people twice over.

Our story that a petition calling for the Woke to be taken out of Wokingham, set up by the People’s Front of Wokingham, was absolutely true.

The group want the borough to be renamed Brexinghamon-Sea in light of Sir John Redwood’s constant tweets about the UK fishing industry.

Sir John said: “Wokingham residents like UK fish and the name of their borough.

“They also know enough about geography to know we don’t have our own seaside, however much we would like easy access to the beach.”

Our real April fool did fox some readers, who were up in arms about the proposal to rename Tiger Close in Woodley to Tiger Far Away because some children were afraid to walk down the street – they thought it was a warning sign meaning there was a tiger close by.

Our crack team of reporters are already working on another convincing tale for April 2022.

Ahead of the reopening of pub beer gardens, The White Horse unveiled its covidfriendly makeover: the garden

There were three fires in April. The biggest was at Arborfield Green, an arsonist struck at St Paul’s Church, and vandals destroyed equipment at Latimer Road Playground Middle left: The White Horse had a makeover; Bottom left: Tiger Close was our April fool had been transformed with the installation of several specially decorated huts for people to use in their groups of six.

And Andy Rogers, publican at The Redan and Bar Fifty Six, said the reopening was easier as there were no curfews, and no requirement for food to be served for people to get a drink in pubs. Outdoor, seated table service was, he said, much easier.

Plans to launch a new café were revealed. The Kimel Foundation aims to help people with autism get support for moving into the world of work.

Nic Landers said: “I firmly believe there is a job out there for everybody”. After lots of preparation work, the café is due to open in the next few weeks.

Beauty salons and

hairdressers were also allowed to reopen, and salons reported brisk trade as clients could look forward to some ‘me-time’ once again.

Opening for the first time was Hamlet, which was in Peach Place. The bistro promised a “simple, ingredientled menu”, with a focus on seasonal ingredients to showcase local produce.

Also opening was Energie Fitness, a new gym where Argos used to be in Wokingham town centre. Peacock House Interiors, a homeware shop, was launched by Wokingham Borough mayor, Cllr Malcolm Richards. The shop is one of a number of independent businesses to open Elms Walk, a new shopping street close to Elms Field.

And Wokingham borough

libraries were also reopening, with some reduced hours.

Many services had gone online during the pandemic, and some events remain virtual.

Not everything was reopening. Residents were calling for the reopening of Joel Park’s playground. Like many playgrounds, gates had been locked during the pandemic, and swings removed. One reader called for them to be restored as the Easter holidays came around.

As the first steps out of lockdown were made, some events started to take place.

There were scarecrow trails in Spencers Wood and Hurst, showing the creativity of residents.

The vaccination programme continued, with over 45s able to book jabs from mid-April.

Heelas – aka John Lewis and Partners – in Reading’s Broad Street was saved from the axe.

The department store chain was closing some stores as a result of changes to the retail environment, with Newbury’s branch going. Instead, the store was due to reopen on April 12.

The Red Arrows made an appearance in Wokingham, and was a special treat for pupils at St Crispin’s, Wescott Infants, and Westende Juniors to give pupils a boost following lockdowns. Headteacher Ginny Rhodes said: “The weather and timing simply couldn’t have been more perfect and a great reminder of how wonderful it is to have all pupils back.”

A church treasurer stole more than £20,000 which in office at Wokingham Methodist Church. Nicholas Scott

Bormann-Hill admitted two counts of abusing his position when he appeared at Reading Magistrates Court. He had taken collection plate money over a four-year period.

The launch of the new green recycling bags were met with fears that they would blow away, not helped by stormy weather during the initial weeks of the new scheme.

Wokingham Borough Council said that the bags would get blown about during extreme windy conditions and called on residents to label their bags with their house number.

Tributes were paid to Woodley town mayor Cllr David Mills, who died. South Lake North ward councillor Jenny Cheng said he considered being mayor of Woodley an honour.

“We shall miss him”, she added.

A week later, our masthead turned black to mark the passing of Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh.

The same issue lead on the news that Reading Toy Run founder Ben Spiller had died after a short illness.

One of the ongoing stories of the year was the street artist we dubbed Catsy. The mystery painter has been spray painting, using non-permanent paints, pictures of cats with googly eyes across Wokingham and has brought much joy.

Rosie Skinner from Emmview Veterinary Centre said it was “like having our own little Banksy”.

Barkham Hookers cheered up the borough by crocheting Easter-themed toppers for post boxes, raising funds for Dingley’s Promise.

Across the year, we had been reporting on a fundraising campaign for Dawson Gosling, who needed £60,000 to fund a vital operation to help alleviate a rare form of cerebral palsy, which affects movement in his legs, including his ability to walk.

Fundraising efforts included having a special curry named after him by the Sultan Balti House and top boxers Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua signing a special print which was raffled by his family.

Late night racing on the streets of the borough was an issue for much of the year.

The anti-social drives was both a nuisance and a breach of lockdown restrictions.

Arborfield residents wanted action and Thames Valley Police said that the car cruises were a danger to the public.

“We would ask that people do not gather for any other event,” they warned after a weekend of misery for the borough.

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, December 30, 2021

REVIEW OF THE YEAR 2021: MAY

Vigil held after police kill escaped cow; Moles head to Wembley; Day’s RSCPA run

M

AY began with the launch of a search for an internationallyrenowned artist to create a breathtaking sculpture for the new Carnival Leisure Hub development.

Arts 4 Wokingham wants to find a landmark piece of art for the development, which will be a gateway for the regeneration project.

Applications were invited from all over the world, and the panel have been whittling them down.

A shortlist of five has been created and in next week’s paper, we will reveal who they are. Wokingham Today editor Phil Creighton will be part of the final judging panel when they meet next month.

Thames Valley Police held an awareness day for drivers in Finchampstead, stopping those who were a little too close to cyclists for comfort.

More banking changes were announced for the borough.

HSBC’s Wokingham branch was to switch to cash machines for in-branch banking rather than a counter service, a move that the bank said would make it “sustainable and fit for the future” and “virtually all other services the branch previously offered will be maintained, it just might be done in a different way”.

And Santander announced the closure of its Broad Street branch. It had previously closed the Woodley branch, forcing customers to head to Reading town centre if they needed to visit a branch.

Covid rates continued to drop, with the rate reaching 22.6 per 100,000 Wokingham people at the start of the month, while restrictions would ease again and see people allowed to hug once more. Also allowed would be indoor events, including exercise classes, cinemas, and service inside for pubs, restaurants and cafes.

Outdoor sporting arenas could host to a capacity of 1,000 people, while outdoor events would be limited to a maximum of 4,000, and up to 30 people would be able to attend weddings, receptions and wakes, as well as other life celebrations.

As the month went on it reduced further, reaching 11.7

by May 11, and many people got used to the new regime of home tests twice a week.

One group that started returning to practising was the OBJ Morris. The side had been rehearsing via Zoom, but given the dances mainly involve whacking sticks together and jingling bells, it wasn’t

Clockwise from main picture: The vigil held after Thames Valley Police killed an escaped cow; a socially distanced election count; the new mural in Wokingham town centre; a search was launched for an artwork for Carnival Hub; a new Winnersh relief road opened; OBJ Morris returned to in-person practices quite the same remotely.

An issue that has reared its head during the pandemic was access to doctors’ appointments. A special report looked at problems readers had with Wokingham Medical Centre. Sir John Redwood said he had spoken to then health secretary Matt Hancock about the issue.

“I have been getting complaints where a surgery requires someone to ring at a single specified time each day to see if they can get an appointment that day,” he said. “In the worst cases, there is great difficulty in getting through at all.”

The governing CCG apologised for anyone having difficulty speaking to staff and said: “The surgery is receiving a higher number of phone calls that usual”.

Ultimately, the medical centre has 13 GPs for 22,764 patients or 1,751 patients per GP. The national average is 1,751 patients per GP. Thursday, May 6 was local elections day and, as Wokingham Today comes out on polling day, our letters page was packed with pictures of readers’ pets rather than political views.

Due to covid, the results were counted not overnight on Thursday, but during Saturday daytime. Tellers were socially distanced in bubbles at Loddon Valley Leisure Centre, with the press (well, Wokingham Today) up in the gallery looking down and safely out of the way.

In the end, it was a good day for the Conservatives who retained control of the council, taking the scalp of Wokingham Labour leader Andy Croy in the process. Not every result went their way: in Emmbrook, UllaKarin Clark lost to the Lib Dems., one of three seats the party gained on the night. The Tories saw seven new faces elected, some coming in after previous councillors retired.

Among the fresh intake was Rebecca Margetts, the wife of fellow councillor Charles.

The new make-up of the council was 31 Conservatives, 18 Lib Dems, three Labour and two independents. This has since changed to two Labour and three independents, after Carl Doran resigned from the party.

All parties will feel bullish about their chances in the forthcoming local elections in May 2022.

On the same day, the Police

and Crime Commissioner elections were held, with Conservative candidate Matthew Barber winning the seat for the Thames Valley.

We love reporting on the various charity initiatives that readers get up to. Six-year-old Daya Gill from Earley raised £446 for the RSPCA by running 30km around Reading and Whiteknights lake, including a time when she ran dressed as a dog.

Wokingham gained a new tap room in the form of Outhouse Brewery. Owner Peter Rhodes promised readers that it would be a one-of-a-kind venue where customers would be drinking in the brewery itself.

Around the corner, in Elms Field, there was an insect invasion as new wooden animals, carved from trees chopped down for the regeneration, were installed.

They included a caterpillar and a beetle.

The Winnersh Relief Road opened, taking traffic off the Reading Road and running behind Sainsbury’s. However, it was not without controversary as motorists were expecting to be able to turn right on it but unable to do so. There

were a number of accidents on opening days, but it has since settled down.

The council also revealed it was motoring on with a hitech solution to easing traffic congestion across Wokingham borough. A new real-time information system would lead to intelligent traffic schemes. It will then help motorists choose unblocked routes to reach their destination.

Another housing project was given approval: 1,600 homes in the South Wokingham Major Development scheme. The land will include the South Wokingham Distributor Road, and include two primary schools, parks and play areas.

A third of the scheme will be affordable housing.

The big story of the month was Binfield FC – the Moles – reaching Wembley for the FA Vase Final. We printed a special poster, as well as a cutout-and-keep rosette and DIY Moles scarf to wear to show support. We joined villagers as they lined the streets to watch the team coach drive through Binfield before heading to the stadium. Sadly it wasn’t to be victory, but it was still a great day out, and we can all be proud of the team.

Thames Valley Police were to be subject to investigation following their handling of an escaped cow. The frightened animal ran through streets of Woodley, onto the A329m and was eventually run over close to The George pub. It was then put down by a vet. An outcry included a vigil by animal rights protestors angry with the force, but police and crime commissioner Matthew Barber said he was satisfied the police had acted correctly.

Dabbawalla opened in January, but due to lockdown was unable to welcome customers in person. That was finally put right in May with a ribbon-cutting ceremony by Wokingham borough mayor Cllr Malcolm Richards, in one of his last engagements prior to stepping down.

And the new borough mayor, Cllr Keith Baker, unveiled a mural in Wokingham town centre hours after he had been installed as the first citizen of Wokingham. The mural is a colourful map of the town, with many special touches including images of wildlife, buildings and hints to Wokingham’s heritage. It can be seen in Erftstadt Court, off Denmark Street.

Thursday, December 30, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

T

HE ONGOING problem from late-night car meets hit the headlines again.

This time, the focus was on Wokingham town centre, where petrolheads had been meeting in a multi-storey car park.

Readers said the noise was making it an “ongoing and extremely distressing” situation, with the motorists reportedly backfiring engines, hooting horns and racing about.

Thames Valley Police said they were aware of the incidents and had patrols in the area.

One of the knock-on effects of the pandemic was a boom in the property market. The Chancellor’s stamp duty holiday helped people buying homes under £500,000, and Wokingham became a seller’s market.

Property website Zoopla said that demand in the borough had risen 71% in two months, with people looking for fourand five-bedroom homes. The company said Wokingham was in the sweet spot of being close to Reading, London and other key cities, as well as the borough’s excellent schools. We like to think it’s down to the brilliant local newspaper, but they didn’t mention that.

After seeing the covid rate plummet, it started to rise again in June, with Wokingham being above the average for the region at 45.6 per 100,000 in the first week in June.

But some parts were affected more than others.

The borough was one of the areas affected by the new Delta variant of the virus, and surge testing for affected parts of the borough was introduced – 40,000 residents were asked to get a PCR test as part of the push, with the rate per 100,000 soaring to 220.

Special test sites were set up across parts of Wescott, Norreys, Evendons and Bulmershe and Whitegates.

Residents in parts of Newtown in Reading were also asked to take part and message boards were driven round the area to remind people to take part.

As the month went on, the vaccination programme was extended to all adults aged 18-24, with a mass vaccination site set up in Bulmershe Leisure Centre attracting large queues.

Sir John Redwood, Wokingham MP, called for all covid restrictions to be ended, saying: “The current restrictions have gone on long enough”, adding, “There was no simple relationship between length and severity of lockdown and death rates”.

He also felt that businesses were harmed by being forced to operate well below normal capacity.

“I favour letting people make more of their own decisions about how much risk they are

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REVIEW OF THE YEAR 2021: JUNE

Remembering the Forbury Three; surge testing; statues unveiled

Clockwise from left: The memorial service for the Forbury Three; the statues at Arborfield Green are uneviled; Shinfield Studios; a Catsy artwork; surge testing reminders; the team from CLASP

willing to run in their lives,” he said.

It was not all bad news.

Residents were asked to help thank volunteers who had taken part in the vaccination programme in Wokingham.

David Dunham was planning a party for these brilliant people in September and made an appeal for residents to make donations, including goodies, so it would be a real beano.

In the Queen’s Birthday Honours List, Sonning-lad Professor Ben Cowling, who accurately predicted the pandemic back in February 2020, was awarded an MBE. Council leader John Halsall said: “His work at this time has been invaluable.”

Plans were also announced for the return of the Wokingham winter carnival in November, but to help with social distancing, there would be no procession at the end of the day.

With people working from home, that meant plenty of working cheese and wine parties.

So it was no wonder we had to print an appeal asking residents not to dump empty bottles next to overflowing recycling facilities. The Sainsbury’s Winnersh site had

been given a makeover and the replacement bins, not part of the council’s recycling scheme, was overflowing.

Cllr Paul Fishwick urged residents to use alternative sites such as Sindlesham Court and Winnersh British Legion if Sainsbury’s was full.

Also on the increase was fly-tipping: up 79% in a year, but prosecution levels were just 1%.

Three charities received the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service: CLASP, The Link Visiting Scheme and The Link Foundation all celebrated their honour.

Elsewhere, a touch of Hollywood came to Wokingham with filming for The Devil’s Hour in Starmead Drive. The drama will be screened on Amazon Prime when it is completed.

Wokingham railway station’s Grade II listed bridge was finally due to be refurbished, and it would reopen by the end of the summer.

Network Rail had run a public consultation on its plans with the Wokingham Society giving them the approval needed.

More details about the plans for Swallows Meadows were released in June. Earley Town Council expressed their

concerns for the 43-home plan that included a Lidl supermarket. Its leader, Cllr Clive Jones, said its petition against the development had garnered 1,500 signatures and the council had applied for a public footpath to be created on the land which had been used by dog walkers for many years, while tree protection orders were made on the patch’s trees.

Fundraising continued with 12-year-old Jessica Widdicombe having a big chop for the first time ever. Her haircut saw 26in taken off, with at least 18in going to the Little Princess Trust, which makes wigs for children with or recovering from cancer. She raised nearly £700, which covers the cost of making the wig.

A shake-up to local democracy was revealed, with the Boundary Commission’s review into parliamentary seats unveiled. If it goes ahead, there would be a Wokingham County seat, Earley and Woodley Constituency, Bracknell Borough and Reading County. Each would have between 70,000 and 77,000 electors, making the seats fairer and taking into account changes to the population in recent years.

Catsy’s pictures hit the big time, with his efforts making headlines in national newspapers. The mysterious artist created paintings which he then hid in various locations across Wokingham for people to find. We interviewed him to find out more about the pictures and he promised to try some different poses to keep people interested.

There was more art on show, with the unveiling of a horsethemed sculpture at Arborfield Green, playing homage to its heritage. Amy Goodman, who devised the three sculptures received a large round of applause at the event as people admired the three statues she had devised.

Members of St Catherine’s of Bearwood held a flower festival to mark its 150th anniversary, saying it with flowers to tell the story of the church.

The council’s mowing team made a mistake when they cut down some rare bee orchid plants growing at Shepherds Hill … and also at the Black Boy roundabout.

An apology was issued and contractors reminded of the various wildflower areas in the borough.

Our issue of June 24 marked the first anniversary of the

Forbury Gardens terrorist attack, which saw three people lose their lives.

We featured pictures from the memorial service held in Reading and broadcast by BBC Radio Berkshire.

It included a performance by members of the Aldworth Philharmonic Orchestra, and contributions from Holt School pupils taught by James Furlong.

Members of James’ family joined with the families of Joe Richie-Bennett and David Wails, council leaders, police officers and MPs to share their condolences and ensure that the three will never be forgotten.

Shinfield Studios put in its planning application for Thames Valley Park, making the dream of Hollywood in Shinfield edge that little bit closer.

Wokingham Borough Council switched its domestic abuse contract from Berkshire Women’s Aid to Cranstoun, a decision that was met with concern, not least as Cranstoun did not have any refuges set up locally. Cllr Bill Soane said that he hoped the council would continue to work closely with Berkshire Women’s Aid and its primary focus was on supporting victims.

14 | NEWS

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REVIEW OF THE YEAR 2021: JULY

Twin town suffers flooding; Sonning 10k and Twyford Beer return; Euro 2020 fun

A

ROW over the work of town councils during the pandemic erupted over the summer.

Borough council leader John Halsall told a meeting of the council that Earley and Wokingham town councils had been asleep for 18 months “with no evidence that either body has done anything material in that time”, something angrily denied by the Lib Dems who ran both town councils.

Cllr Halsall called on the councils to praise the surge testing programmes that had been set up at short notice, saying the borough council had the green light to go ahead with it on Friday evening and the project was up-and-running

by Monday morning.

“That’s fantastic, leading the way,” he said.

There was more anger as Cllr John Kaiser, the council’s deputy leader, said that poor people voted for opposition parties. He made the comments during a debate about Gorse Ride.

Afterwards, Cllr Kaiser said: “The point I was trying to make is that Labour claim to stand up for the least well-off in our society, but don’t live up to that in their words and actions.

They don’t want to talk about how we (the Conservatives) are helping the poorest in our community and instead want to manufacture a row about the word I used … they are stoking up division rather than doing something to help people.

“Residents will take a dim view of Labour’s attempts to start a class war.”

An anonymous donor was helping a Wokingham-based charity. First Days said that it had been receiving regular gifts for six months. The mystery gifter had been selecting items that they knew the charity needed and had them delivered to their new depot in Mollys Millars Lane. The charity’s CEO, Emma Cantrell, said it was moving that people wanted to help in this way, adding: “They seem to always know what we need”.

Arborfield youngster Charlie Kristensen received The Diana Award for his anti-bullying campaign #Cheer Up Charlie, which stemmed from his own experiences. He has trained as a Diana Ambassador and said the award was a dream come true.

Pupils at The Holt School unveiled a memorial to James Furlong, the teacher murdered during the Forbury Gardens terrorist attack. The artwork is a mosaic by artist Gary Drostle that depicts a golden heart surrounded by symbolic images

Clockwise from main picture: Flooding in Erftstadt; The Holt School unveiled a memorial to teacher James Furlong; Twyford Beer Festival; Sonning 10k returned; and fans celebrate England reaching the Euro 2020 finals including a circle of hearts, a rainbow and the words passion, courage, dedication, integrity and humour.

Covid rates continued to bob along at around 100 cases per 100,000 people, as the vaccination programme continued. However, there were regional pockets of infection. The Palmer Park area of Reading saw rates hit 1,690 per 100,000 people, while parts of Woodley had so few cases they didn’t register on the government’s covid map.

The Berkshire West Clinical Commissioning Group announced the launch of a mobile vaccination bus which would help reach people who could miss out on a jab because they couldn’t get a vaccination centre.

All covid restrictions were to end on Monday, July 19, and in readiness Wokingham Borough Council announced that it would use covid marshals to patrol the streets during the evenings.

There was also some anger that publications featuring columnists calling the pandemic a hoax were being placed in Wokingham Today’s display stands in the borough’s leisure centres and people had picked them up thinking they were getting the latest issue of your favourite local newspaper.

The impact of Marcus Rashford’s campaign for the free school meal programme to carry on throughout the school holidays continued to be felt, with Woodley Lunch Bunch promising that its Grub Club would return for families who needed it, pointing out the vouchers provided by the government only covered the children receiving free school meals, not the family. The Grub Club in Wokingham expected to feed 129 children and their parents during the holidays.

Bracknell MP James Sunderland called on schools to be able to restrict self-isolation.

At the time, if one pupil came down with covid, the whole class needed to selfisolate for 10 days.

“We owe it to our children to get back to normal,” he said.

Events started to be held again, including the return of the Hurst Show. Covid restrictions were in place to ensure the event went ahead safely, including using four venues for the weekend-long event. Money raised went to Alexander Devine Children’s Hospice and Just Around The Corner.

The Sonning 10k returned and saw more than 400 runners join in the fun. First home was Mark Worringham from Reading Roadrunners,

who completed the course in 35 minutes and 48 seconds.

Wokingham Pride returned with a covid-safe gathering by the town hall, a small parade and a picnic in Elms Field. It is hoped that the 2022 event will be bigger and better.

Tribute band festival Marvellous returned to Dinton Pastures, bringing with it a weekend of musical fun for 6,000 people. The event was held with covid-safe precautions in place and judged to be a success.

Tributes were paid to Twyford see-sawing ace Dave Turner, who campaigned hard for the village to have a new library at Polehampton Boys School. Cllr Lindsay Ferris said: “He was very committed to Tywford and the surrounding community.”

The Mill at Sonning announced that it was to rename its auditorium in honour of playwright and master farce writer Ray Cooney, after help and support he had given the theatre during the pandemic.

Shinfield Studios was going to be joined by a new TV studio, as part of the University of Reading’s Cine Valley project.

Throughout the month, Wokingham celebrated England’s success in the Euro 2020 tournament. The team

reached the final and punters flocked to the reopened pubs to enjoy the tournament in safety.

Sadly, England lost a penalty shoot-out and emerged as runners-up, but it was good to be back in the pubs again.

And there was more good news from the pub sector: The Pheasant inn in Winnersh was to reopen with new owners, who promised a fusion menu and a complete revamp of the pub’s interior and exterior.

Elsewhere, The Rose Inn in Wokingham’s town centre announced that it would reopen in October following an extensive refurbishment.

It was announced that the name of the new primary school in Matthewsgreen would be St Cecilia, and it will open in September 2022.

Clothing retailer FatFace announced it was to shut its Wokingham branch at the end of August, although its Bracknell and Wokingham branches would remain open.

Council leader John Halsall expressed his desire that the Carnival Hub development would include a proper theatre space, with 450 seats and appropriate facilities. This was a change to the previously published aim of having a sports hall that could be used for arts events.

Wokingham’s twin town of Erftstadt suffered heavy flooding, leaving families homeless, following days of heavy rain. The town lost power, and the sewage works was forced to close. Torrents of water flowed through the streets.

Residents here, led by Wokingham Town Council and the Town Twinning Association, helped where they could with many responding to an online appeal. Wokingham Lions gave £1,000 to this.

A campaign to see a sixth form built at the Bohunt School in Arborfield continued, with parents warning that 89% of affected pupils would go to schools and colleges outside of the borough for their Year 12 and 13 studies as it was easier than crossing Wokingham.

Catsy revealed that he had a copycat – or copykit – after a young artist made some tribute artwork featuring a Catsy-style cat on a rainbow. He said it was “very touching”.

And spare a thought for Nick Salter, a man who does things by halves. He grew a big bushy beard during lockdown and then shaved half of it off toi raise more than £1,000 for Addison’s Disease Self-Help Group. The charity said that Nick’s half-beard photos “made our day”.

Thursday, December 30, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

NEWS | 15

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REVIEW OF THE YEAR 2021: AUGUST

Clockwise from top: Ronnie Franklin’s 90th birthday was spent in a hot-air balloon; grass grew at aggressive rates; pick-you-own returned to Gray’s Farm; Sir John Redwood looked at level crossing problems; A-level and GCSE results were revealed

Aggressive grass problems; hot air trip for 90th; Sir John leaps into action

A

GGRESSIVE’ grass was blamed for below standard grass cutting across the borough.

Contractors Tivoli said that work had been thwarted by the grasses growing an an unprecedented rate.

Spencer Rock, from the firm, said it was “around 60% more aggressive than last year. The flush experienced in late May and early June is the most extensive we’ve seen in 20 years.”

Labour shortages were also blamed for the problems and Mr Rock apologised for the uncut verges and playing fields that could be seen across the borough.

Growth was welcomed at Grays Farm as its pickyour-own service was able to resume. Owner Peter Gray said that the farm was an enjoyable outing for families, taking a couple of hours in the sun, while ensuring they came away with “first class fruit and vegetables to eat for their dinner”.

He added: “There’s no food miles and no question about where the food came from.”

Covid rates in the borough were now reaching more than 240 people per 100,000. It was with this in mind that Cllr Charles Margetts, the executive member for health, warned that a third jab could be needed, and preparations were being made.

There was one side to

lockdown that shouldn’t really be a surprise: Wokingham and neighbouring Reading had seen a boom time for new births, with December 2020 and January 2021 being the peak months for births, roughly nine months after the first lockdown was announced.

Community groups across the borough spent part of August preparing for the arrivals of Afghan refugees following US troops’ withdrawal and the return of the Taliban as rulers. Council leader John Halsall urged people to donate to foodbanks and clothing charities so they had enough to help people as they came to the borough.

“Like many other local authorities, we want to do everything we can to help individuals seeking refugee in the UK, ensuring they feel safe and supported,” he said.

Outdoor events continued to be popular, with an estimated 3,000 people flocking to a fun day in Cantley Park in aid of Saving Abandoned Fly-Grazing Equines (SAFE) – not bad considering it took place in some torrential downpours. We featured a very British picture of people queuing for an ice cream from the van while it was tipping it down.

In political news, there was a disagreement over the status of Wokingham’s BAME (black and minority ethnic) forum.

Resident Liz Mayers used a council meeting to ask why the forum had been suspended.

Council leader John Halsall said that council officers would engage with Ms Mayers and, in response to another question on the issue, said that the forum was awaiting an independent review which would be complete by the end of the year.

Some of the work of the forum had been curtailed by the pandemic, and Cllr Halsall was determined that send the message out that council is “committed to engagement with the community where this is helpful to them.

“The forum has not been disbanded .. but paused.”

No wonder our headline to this report was ‘BAME forum not dead, just resting’.

A 90-year-old had a birthday to remember: he spent it up in the air with a hot air balloon ride across the borough, landing in Hurst where he lived for many years. Residents came out of their homes to wave at the family in the high-flying basket, and birthday boy Ronnie Franklin was thrilled.

His daughter, Pauline, said: “It was like a fairy tale.”

A Twyford-based pie-shop helped a pre-school in the village by selling a special creation. The Rural Pie Co. donated 15% from the sale price of its Roast Chicken Pies to the Happy Hours Pre-School, helping out the venue which had struggled during lockdown as its usual fundraising activity had been curtailed by restrictions.

The ongoing problem with petrolheads holding late-night meetings in Wokingham was again the front-page story, this time in our August 12 issue. Up to 100 motorists were thought to be gathering in the town centre, revving engines outside homes, taking over the Elms Field multi-storey car park, and making a lot of noise. Again, Thames Valley Police were aware and patrolling the area.

For the second year in a row, A-level and GCSE results were determined by schools.

While pupils could collect results from schools in person, the usual celebrations were more muted and, due to the way in which grades had been tabulated, there are no league tables or overall results for each school.

Preparations for Wokingham Festival continued, with more than 40 artists planned for the three-day event over the August bank holiday.

Organiser Stan Hetherington said: “We only charge low prices for tickets, but we deliver stages much bigger than we should be able to because of our volunteers and the community spirit, which is also helped by the great support from Wokingham Borough Council.”

The annual Rewind 80s fetstival was held in the Wokingham-side of Henley and was a great success.

Also returning after a covid break was the Pinewood Miniature Railway, run by

steam enthusiasts. The facility is popular with families and in 2019 attracted more than 5,000 people for rides around Pinewood on a specially devised track.

Wokingham Town Mayor Cllr Tony Lack opened a new sensory garden at The Acorn Centre, created by Wokingham In Need, supported by groups including the borough council, Wokingham Town Council and Optalis.

A school bus service from Bohunt in Arborfield was axed by Reading Buses as it was deemed to be “not commercially viable” with it only transporting around 20 pupils at a time. Cllr Charles Margetts said the cancellation was a real problem and wouldn’t help congestion along the A327.

Plans for Swallow Meadow were paused by the developer, who asked for more time to gather more information for the scheme, which would see 42 homes and a Lidl built on the Lower Earley land.

A Wokingham town centre café and bakery won the Tripadvisor’s Travellers’ Choice Award for its cakes. Blue Orchard Bakery, based in Peach Place, was delighted to have won. Owner Elena Jenkins said she was so happy and praised her staff. “They’re all amazing,” she said. “They always go out of their way to give such good customer service.”

Wokingham borough Council was awarded £250,000

towards its new smart traffic lights aimed at reducing congestion on the roads.

Grant Shapps MP said: “This vital funding will cut journey times, reduce emissions and keep the UK at the forefront of technological developments in road maintenance.”

Another form of transport was in the news in August, as Sir John Redwood helped residents on Gipsy Lane tackle noise complaints from the Smiths Level Crossing. Trains were tooting and shining bright lights as they passed each other at the crossing, and Sir John called on Network Rail to reduce the speed limit at this section of track.

The company told us: “We will continue to work to balance the impact of noise … and glare from the crossing lights to make the crossing as safe as possible for the public.”

Labour councillor Carl Doran quit the party over his frustrations with the national party’s leadership. He was concerned over its “antidemocratic decisions”.

“I am a democratic socialist and I will remain a democratic socialist,” he said.

“It has become very difficult to remain in the party when your leadership and your team clearly does not have a working relationship with either of these concepts.”

He now sits as an independent and will stand down when his term of office ends in May.

16 | NEWS

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, December 30, 2021

Spacephiller Phil Creighton

Tasting normal

From May 27, 2021

I

S THERE a soul in the country who is not fed up with the coronavirus?

While the vaccines might be the way to rid ourselves of this troublesome priest, even with the lifting of lockdown restrictions we’re in a kind of hokey cokey.

We can put our right arm on Spain, but the government’s mixed messaging means we’re in out, in out and shaking our heads all about as we’re not sure we can get our passports out or stick with the bottles of fake tan for another summer.

Travel within the UK is allowed again, thank goodness.

There’s a whole year of growth that grandparents have missed out on after all.

It’s been so long since we’ve left Berkshire that even a day trip to Oxfordshire seems exotic.

Earlier this month, we managed to sit under umbrellas in the back garden of my parents. It was the first time in 15 months we’d been able to do so, and it also meant we came home with Christmas presents and beer bought for planned celebrations so long past that the bottles were out of date.

Still, stale beer was a small price to pay for an afternoon in torrential rain, mimicking our favourite spots like Margate and the Costa del Bognor Regis.

As the nation gradually reopens, so does the transport network and earlier this month National Express put its coaches back into gear, ferrying passengers from Mereoak to all over the country.

Once, a long time ago, in far happier days, I took the National Express from London Victoria to Bonnie Scotland.

The overnight journey meant we hit the highlands as dawn arrived. The view of misty glens was nothing short of magical and made the all-night travel worth every penny.

So it’s with similar anticipation that a tin of travel sweets dropped into my lap. National Express has released a limited-edition collection featuring flavours inspired by the nation’s favourite dishes: Curry in honour of Birmingham, Wensleydale cheese and cranberry in a nod to Yorkshire, a Cornish pasty in honour of Skegness … not really, it’s in honour of Cornwall.

The ones that were sent to our offices were fish n chip flavoured, inspired, say the marketing gurus, by day trips to the seaside or coastal holiday such as Devon, Brighton, Margate, Scarborough and Blackpool.

Each is a boiled sweet. A proper one that you’d suck on and enjoy the sensations as first it glides around the tongue and then after as the insides of your mouth are puckered with the sugar.

But these are different.

On carefully prising open the tin, the unmistakable scent of fish ‘n’ chips, with lashings of vinegar and plenty of salt, assault the nostrils. They look like sweets, but they smell like savoury. If you’ve ever made a coffee and thought you were about to drink a cup of tea, and your tastes buds struggle to make the mental switch, you’ll know what it’s like.

Chris Hardy, managing director of National Express UK Coach, said: “As the UK’s largest coach operator, we’ve always been part of seeing friends and family, going to events, on day trips and holidays. We wanted to mark helping make this happen again in a fun way.

“Fish and chips and pork pies might not be the kind of flavours anyone would expect to taste in boiled sweet form, but each confectionery celebrates the wonderful diversity of the UK. We hope the tastes will take people to a place they’ve missed and can now happily and safely return to with National Express.”

Brave words Chris.

No one who have sampled one of the delights from our tin has managed to suck it and see. One brave soul crunched their way through it and then sought a glass of water to soothe his pallet. It’s become a game of chicken.

Still, it’s a lovely idea and the people who enjoyed these tins, winning them from YouTwitFace websites, will no doubt be thinking the sweets are a pale imitation of the real thing.

Yes, it’s a taste of normal: the bitter disappointment of a wet and miserable day at the seaside. Wouldn’t have it any other way.

Now, where did my Kiss Me Quick hat go? n For more on the sweets, visit www. nationalexpress.com/tastesofnormal

Catsy loves his copycat JULY 29 – WOKINGHAM’S mystery artist has a copycat(sy) as pictures are put up across the town imitating his work.

Catsy, the undercover graffiti artist who has been painting a trail of cats across the borough, has spotted a number of artworks paying tribute to his signature feline friends.

The copycat’s work features a rainbow with a heart inside and a Catsy sat on top with the words “don’t lose hope”.

Catsy recently shared one of the pieces, found at St Paul’s C of E Junior School, on social media in a bid to find out who created it.

“I absolutely love it and it melted my heart the first time I saw it,” Catsy says. “It looks like I’m inspiring another generation.

“I think it’s amazing and I want to know who made it so I can tell them how much I like it.”

The artist said the mystery piece of work has also been spotted in Woosehill.

He believes the heart and the rainbow are a nod to his ongoing support for Pride.

“People shouldn’t be discriminated against,” Catsy says.

“This was very touching.

“It shows they see Catsy as a positive thing and I just think that’s brilliant.

Light, fa

By CHARLOTTE KING news@wokingham.today JULY 1 – ENJOY the town centre in a new light, thanks to Wokingham borough drone photographer James Singleton.

The owner of photography firm JS Aerial Solutions, James has been busy capturing Wokingham

at sunset from a bird’s eye view.

He took up drone photography as a hobby three years ago, and now snaps scenic shots from points of interest across the borough.

He says getting a good sunset photo is all in the timing.

“Generally, my best shots are taken about 10 minutes before the sunset,

Reading as you’ve never seen it before As seen in our January 14 issue

Together after a year apart

APRIL 15 – A COUPLE separated

by Covid restrictions have been reunited after a year apart.

Arthur Twitchett, known as Ron, lives at Lord Harris Court in Sindlesham. He has been unable to be in the same room as his wife, Francine for more than a year, due to the pandemic.

But now, Francine has moved into the care home, to be closer to her husband.

“I can’t believe we are finally together,” she says.

Ron says that he was lost for words when they were reunited.

“It’s been so long and we had been looking forward to this day for such a long time,” he says.

Abigail Cranston, the home manager, was delighted to have the couple reunited.

“What a beautiful moment,” she says. “At long last you are together

TOGETHER AGAIN: Ron and Francine Twitchett again. We wish you so many more loving memories here.”

During the pandemic, the couple met through the home’s covidsecure visitor pod, separated by glass.

OCTOBER 14 – Talented artist Sally Castle has created a magical book for children and adults based on a classic story where good deeds are rewarded.

The Twyford-based artist used the quietness of covid lockdown to illustrate Oscar Wilde’s children’s story, The Happy Prince.

She has lettered the Irish writer’s words in a style loosely based on copperplate, written with a pen dipped in Quink. The end result is a beautiful art book edition, with a sketchbook feel.

A professional artist, Sally was born in Reading, the town where Oscar Wilde became the local gaol’s most famous inmate. He was imprisoned there in 1895.

For these reasons her drawings set The Happy Prince story in the town.

Sally went out and about gathering details with her sketch book and camera.

Readers will be able to spot the local landmarks: the prison and town hall are on the front cover which includes gold foil blocking.

Inside, delightfully, the picture of Wilde’s beautiful Palace of Sans-Souci is in fact the Co-op store at Cemetery Junction. The upper section with its

mouldings and window framings inspired Sally to think of it as a palace.

She has other amusing references.

The drawing of Wilde’s lion that roars is of course the war memorial Maiwand lion in Forbury Gardens.

“It started just as a personal project during covid. I’d really wanted to do one of Wilde’s fairy stories. The Happy Prince appealed because it shows good deeds being rewarded. It’s a book adults will buy for children. It just looks so lovely,” she says.

Sally, 68, has worked closely with Reading Museum.

“The book will be launched there and they will have the art work in their collection,” she says.

“I’ve also devised a route round the town, about three miles long, so people can look for the book’s landmarks. Details of the online map will be published later,” she said.

She has designed covers and illustrated over 40 books for Reading-based Two Rivers Press, the publishers of her latest book. She is a director of the company.

The company say she has “a reputation for original hand lettering and a particular interest in linocut

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Thursday, December 30, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

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

WPR_2021‑12‑06_TheWokinghamPaper_33x2 (1)_Just Go

WorcesterObserver

Reader travel HISTORIC YORK & the Dales

HistoricYork&theDales_D.pdf

Departing Mon 21 Mar ‘22 Join us on this lovely short break to beautiful Yorkshire, where we combine the rolling hills, panoramic landscapes and charming towns of the Yorkshire Dales with the historic city of York, famous for its glorious Minster and warren of narrow streets.

Your break includes

BLOCKBUSTER: William Morgan has recreated his favourite cinema in Minecraft

antastic just before the sun dips over the horizon,” James explains.

“At this time, you generally get all the best colours coming out.

“You really need there to be some clouds over the horizon to catch the light as the sun goes down: glowing iridescent pinks, oranges and yellows.”

The photographer says aerial

photography gives a great perspective of places you already know.

In May, Wokingham.Today spoke to James about the regulations drone pilots have to follow.

He uses a 250g device, meaning he can fly it responsibly near public spaces.

n To see more of his work, visit www.jsaerial.co.uk

FAMILIAR FACES: Sally Castle has used Reading landmarks for her new adaptation of The Happy Prince

NOVEMBER 18 – A movie-loving eight-year-old boy from Reading has recreated his local cinema by using his favourite video game Minecraft.

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

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

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

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

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

William said: “I missed going to

POETRY CORNER When Illness Strikes printmaking, environmental lettering and mixed media artwork.”

Her work is on panels at Chatham Place and on the Forbury Square Stone in Reading.

It’s also on Reading Museum shop items including tea towels and mugs, and most recently biscuits and sweets packaging which include Wilde’s words: “I can resist everything except temptation”. Sally was part of the save Reading Gaol campaign, designing T-shirts for it.

Wilde expert and collector Michael Seeney’s introduction to the book says it is “beautifully written and illustrated.”

He adds: “By setting the story

in a recognisable town rather than the stereotypical middle-European towns often used as a setting, Sally Castle allows us to see the universal application of Wilde’s moral, and the whole lives up to his wish that we should ‘find in simplicity a subtle strangeness’.”

Sally dedicated her book to her late father Ken Grover, born in Reading, but living in Wargrave at the time of his death last year. The book is inscribed: “He wanted this book to be for his great-grandchildren.”

It is being published at £9.99 on October 21.

n It will be available at Reading Museum and by visiting tworiverspress.com

Dear friends of ours have cancer.

We pray for them each day.

They have fighting spirit; Their faith a strong mainstay.

When illness strikes our loved ones We share their suffering too Each day we cheer each other As we seek what’s best to do.

The doctors and the nurses Do everything they can Deciding on the treatment As they read the latest scan.

Showcase so much because they have the biggest screens and really comfy seats.”

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

“He is absolutely over the moon that Showcase love his creation as much as we do. We had a great time visiting recently and can’t wait to be back again soon.”

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

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

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

Our God, knowing all about us But loving us just the same It’s because He loves each one so much That to share our lives He came.

We have His loving presence.

We know He’s with us here; With us in our joy and pain And all that we might fear.

So, Father, into your hands we give ourselves in faith Together with our loved ones and all who help us too Trusting you whate’er befalls That you will see us through.

We love featuring your poetry. Send your verse to news@wokingham.today

Jim Horsnell

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, December 30, 2021

REVIEW OF THE YEAR 2021: SEPTEMBER

Star Wars in Shinfield; filming in town; a late night hit and run; lobbying phone calls

Above: A Reading Festival goer gets their first covid jab Below: An artist’s impression of a proposed development in Ruscombe

Above: Star Wars characters were shown around the Thames Valley Science Park by university students Far left: A pop-up cafe for new TV series The Inside Man Left: Damage caused to homes in Hurst by a hit-and-run driver

O

NE of our biggest stories of the year broke in the first issue of September.

Conservative councillors from other parts of the country were lobbying Wokingham councillors encouraging them to back plans to build 2,500 homes on greenbelt land between Ruscombe and Twyford. If the scheme ever saw the light of day, developers say it would include the moving of Twyford’s railway station and the creation of a new bypass.

The phone calls were condemned by politicians from every party in the borough, with council leader John Halsall formally objecting to the tactics. “It is entirely wrong, a district councillor should not behave in this way,” he said.

Twyford Lib Dem councillor Stephen Conway said: “It’s so morally wrong, I would never dream of offering my services to developers for a fee.”

Labour’s Cllr Rachel Burgess said she was not surprised by the lobbying.

Residents in Hurst were left shocked by a late-night hit and run driver who hit two cottages and then drove off, leaving a trail of destruction behind them. Thames Valley Police were quick to arrive on the scene but the rogue motorist had already fled from the scene.

The vaccination campaign continued with people getting a jab at Reading Festival, while doctors warned that they were receiving abuse from so-called anti-vaxxers, people who think covid is a hoax or have concerns about the nature of the covid vaccine.

The doctor who spoke to Wokingham Today was so concerned we couldn’t name him or his surgery, but he said that people who chose not to have the vaccine could be putting others in real danger: “I’ve seen people die from covid. I’ve lost colleagues.

There are still people dying.”

The covid uplift to Universal Credit, worth £20, was coming to an end, and there were fears that some households would have to skip meals as a result.

More than 6,500 households in the borough receive the benefit and Annette Medhurst, manager of Wokingham Foodbank, said: “Wokingham is a very expensive place to live and I am very concerned that people will slip back down into needing to attend a foodbank.”

The booster jab programme started for people aged 50 or over from mid-September, and older residents were warned to get a flu jab at the same time. The rate per 100,000 had reached 289 people per 100,000.

There were concerns from residents that their boat storage area was to be flattened

to allow Dinton Pastures Outdoor Activity Centre to have a new car park. Under the new proposals, the boat keepers will have tow their vessels to the lake in future, but users argued there had been “a lack of communication” over the plan.

Shinfield Studios held a special launch to showcase the types of movies that could be made there. Featuring Star Wars characters, the event didn’t confirm who would make movies there but with Disney owning the rights to the film franchise, you could argue it was a clue. The launch event saw the University of Reading’s vice chancellor, Professor Robert van de Noort, say: “Cine Valley is not just a studio, it is an ecosystem that will support film, television and everything that goes with it for hopefully many decades to come.”

The council’s deputy leader, Cllr John Kaiser, said: “how can it not be brilliant? They’re bringing jobs for youngsters.”

Bikers held a special ride in memory of Reading Toy Run founder Ben Spiller who died earlier in the year, while a memorial was held for Gordon Storey in Twyford.

A new café appeared in Broad Street, but it didn’t stick around for long. Betty J’s was created on the site of The Flower Corner as part of filming of Inside Man, a new drama being filmed for BBC One and

Netflix, written by Sherlock co-creator Stephen Moffat. It stars former Doctor Who David Tennant, who was not present for the filming.

Large crowds turned up to see Broad Street used as a location for the drama, with cars filmed by a drone camera.

A long-service award was presented to Hattie Gutzman, landlady of the Hope and Anchor, to mark her 10th anniversary behind the bar of the popular Station Road pub.

The venue hosted a launch for the Timeless spirit company, which has roots in the borough. The company makes specialist gins and other spirits and the bar was packed for the launch event.

Another pub became a Co-op. The former Bramshill Hunt became the store and opened on Friday, September 24, creating 15 jobs and would help serve the Arborfield Green community.

Members of the South East Berks Radio Model Club appealed for help to find a new home after the owner of its current base, off Heathlands Road, asked them to move on.

They offered a £1,000 reward to anyone who could help them find new facilities. The group needed a field large enough for the planes to take off and land safely.

Fun activities included the return of Henley Festival with

acts including Sophie EllisBaxtor, Sara Cox, Al Murray, and Sister Sledge, among many others.

The inaugural Farley Hill Soapbox Derby took place, attracting a good number of entrants including a threewheeler based on the Robin Reliant used by Del Boy in Only Fools and Horses. The winner was the Pheasant Plucker. Organiser Ben Teale said: “It was such an amazing day, made possible by the commitment and hard work of so many people.”

Wokingham’s Arts Trail had 21 creators taking part across 12 different venues. Residents could meet artists in their workshops and studios, buy pieces and learn more about the processes involved.

Artist Jill Chadwick said artists enjoyed themselves.

The Rural Pie Co. was back in the news again after winning five awards at the British Pie Awards, including a highly commended mention for their special Rams Pie, created for RAMS Rugby team.

Amy Smith said judges had been looking for something traditional, and it had been tough deciding what to put forward to the contest. “The judges will consider a lot of things, including pastry consistency and how the gravy oozes out.”

Catsy revealed he had a

superfan in the first of Blake Gresty. The six-year-old loves visiting the various artworks across the borough. His mum Sarah said: “He became a fan during Beat The Street competition, when a Catsy opposite our house piqued his attention.”

And as a thank-you, Catsy created a Harry Potter-themed canvas. “He loves it,” Sarah told us. “Blake has written a thank you card. Now I need to get it to him, but I have no idea who the artist is.”

A charity fun day helped raise £8,000 for Macmillan Cancer Charity. Vicky Martin, who helps tattoo nipples for women who have undergone a mastectomy, organised the event at Trunkwell House.

More than 2,000 people came along and explored 40 stalls, enjoyed a barbecue and met farm animals.

Reading Blue Coat School announced that it would go fully co-educational from 2023.

The school already has a mixed sixth form and will start to include both boys and girls with its Year 7 intake.

Learning disability charity CLASP held a special barn dance to celebrate its 15th birthday. The event, at Wokingham Cricket Club, included a hog roast and an opportunity to thank volunteers for their work across the year.

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NEWS | 19

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REVIEW OF THE YEAR 2021: OCTOBER

Above: Youngsters take on the Twyford Fun Run Left: The Wokingham Children’s Book Festival returned for some literary fun Right: Wokingham Today gained a sister title in the form of Reading Today

Above: The aftermath of an accident in Peach Street Far left: Theresa May opens the Citizens Advice mobile van Left: The Wokingham Walk launched an autumnal event

October ends with a bang; covid rates up; Matt beats The Chasers; Advice on the move

O

CTOBER was an exciting month for us, as we revealed that Wokingham Today was to gain a sister title, Reading Today.

The new newspaper launched on October 20, and has been a smash hit. We’re looking forward to seeing it grow in 2022.

It’s worth reminding readers that Wokingham Today is a social enterprise from a local company. We are not part of a big group but a hyperlocal news organisation that offers quality journalism.

Your support plays a massive role in our success, and the best way to help us is to place a regular order at your newsagent, make a contribution to our work via our website, Wokingham.today, or both.

Our first front page in October revealed that the borough council was planning a special festive market for the Cantley Park. The wonderland would include outdoor market huts selling food, drink and gifts, while there would be a synthetic ice rink serving up fun daily between noon and 8pm all the way through to January 7.

Sadly, things didn’t quite go to plan and the event closed earlier than scheduled. We hope that it will return in 2022, bigger and better than ever.

There was bad news for

Twyford when council leader John Halsall announced that due to rising costs of building materials, plans to convert Polehampton Boys School into a library would have to be paused indefinitely.

He told a meeting of Wokingham’s Executive committee that he was “bitterly disappointed” about the news, but the cut had to be made as a result of pressures on council finances in the wake of the pandemic. “Projects that are unsupported, which means they don’t generate an income, we have to review,” he added.

Wokingham’s Citizens Advice went mobile. The charity revealed it had received sponsorship, including from Wokingham Today, to buy a van that it converted into an office, allowing it to offer surgeries in car parks across the borough.

Chief executive Jake Morrison said: “This Mobile Advice Unit has a specially designed interior, with electricity, so that we can take our office out on wheels. We can park up in any location and support people who want our help.”

Maidenhead MP cut the ribbon to the new van at a special ceremony held in Waitrose in Twyford.

There was a shortage of petrol thanks to panic buying.

The shortage was caused by a lack of lorry drivers, blamed

both on covid and Brexit, and large queues formed in petrol stations that had fuel, while others were dry for days.

The knock-on effect was that charity Keep Mobile had to halt its services as a result. It usually carried out 50 ‘dial-a-ride’ journeys for older or vulnerable residents so they can access medical appointments, vaccinations and other healthcare services.

Fred Rule, a trustee of the charity, said: “We just put our services back in place because people have the confidence to go out, and it has knocked everybody for six.”

Another covid casualty was the borough’s green waste collections, which had to be paused for four weeks due to a driver shortage.

The halt allowed crews to take outstanding leave so that services wouldn’t be affected over the festive and winter periods.

A new campaign was launched to try and save Woodley’s final link to its aircraft-building past.

A planning application had been submitted to convert the Adwest site, off Headley Road East, into new industrial units. The plan would mean the demolition of the art deco building dating back to the 1930s and was once home to the Miles Martin Pen Company, the first factory in the UK to create biro pens.

Ward councillor Shirley Boyt said to the developers: “Listen to the residents. Go back to the site, look into it and come up with a proposal for saving this building for alternative use, and recognise its importance to the community.”

The leadership of Wokingham borough Lib Dems changed as Cllr Lindsay Ferris stepped down after five years in charge. His deputy, Cllr Clive Jones, was elected leader, while Cllr Stephen Conway became his deputy.

Bracknell MP James Sunderland paid a visit to the Gorse Ride redevelopment to see the standard of 46 finished homes in Arnett Avenue.

Cllr John Kaiser, deputy leader of Wokingham Borough Council, said: “It’s a testament to the quality of what can be achieved by working with the community and investing in the great housing they need.”

Wokingham Children’s Book Festival returned with nine authors hosting a mixture of online and in-person events, giving young readers the chance to find out more about their favourite books and how they are made.

It was not the only special event that took place around the town hall. Chalk About It was a special mental healththemed event that saw people come together to create chalk artwork in Market Place, including a fetching image of

a man with flowers coming out of his head. It is hoped the event will become an annual gathering.

The Twyford Together fun run returned, giving families a chance to get racing to raise funds for charity. The event included a series of stalls from Twyford-based businesses, groups and charities.

Covid rates continued to rise as the new term continued, reaching the highest levels ever seen in the borough. It meant schools saw a return of mask wearing in communal areas and classrooms to try and mitigate the spread.

The situation was not helped by a lab returning incorrect results to PCR tests that had been taken at Mereoak Park and Ride.

Rogue Traders host proved that he had a heart of gold when he took on the Chasers in a celebrity version of Beat The Chasers. He did indeed beat the brainboxes, and won an amazing £75,000 for Readingbased homeless charity Launchpad.

There was good news for movie lovers: Shinfield Studios received permission to start building its 18 film stages at a planning meeting, although there were concerns over the amount of traffic the scheme would generate.

Work on the new Carnival Hub progressed, with a topping out ceremony taking place.

Cllr Parry Batth, executive member for environment and leisure, said: “It is going to be a fantastic community facility and this is an exciting milestone in the project.”

The scheme includes 55 new homes, which will be built off-site and then installed in February.

As we revealed back in 2020, plans were being made to create a new Royal Berkshire Hospital by 2025.

One possibility is to see the healthcare centre move to Shinfield.

The month closed with a bang, quite literally. A car crashed into the front window of Hunters estate agency in Peach Street.

A staff member who usually sits by the front window had moved his desk that morning, saving his life.

The autumnal Wokingham Walk, held for the first time, was a hit and raised more than £2,500 for charities. Not bad for the sake of a few blisters.

Siren Craft Brew launched its first pub, with a takeover of the George and Dragon in Swallowfield.

The brewery retained the existing staff and owner Darron Ainley said: “It’s very different to (Siren’s) tap yard” and the venture was “really exciting”.

“We want to make sure it’s the best beer we can put out,” he said.

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, December 30, 2021

REVIEW OF THE YEAR 2021: NOVEMBER

A new Family Fortune; a Pointless jackpot; marching for COP26; return of Giving Tree

F

OLLOWING hot on the heels of Matt Allwright’s win on ITV’s Beat The Chasers, there was another success in a prime-time gameshow, as the Young family hit the jackpot on an edition of Family Fortunes. The group won £30,000 by getting the correct answers in the final round.

The family planned to spend winnings on treats such as a trip to New York, as well as supporting charities including the Olly Young Foundation, CLASP and Thames Hospice.

They said their success came from practising using the board game.

And that’s not the only TV success. Rugby fans Colin and Connor Stapley, from the Rams, appeared in Pointless, scooping a £1,250 by giving a correct answer in the final. Their winnings would be spent on a hiking and camping trip.

Wokingham Foodbank urged people to hold a reverse Advent Calendar – aimed at helping those hidden behind closed doors facing food poverty.

Plans to build a new SEND school in Winnersh Farm were delayed after the Department of Education withdrew funding, despite Theresa May and Matt Rodda joining forces to put pressure on education secretary Nadhim Zahawi.

Cllr John Kaiser, the deputy leader of Wokingham Borough Council said: “The DfE said something about a problem with planning conditions. We know that is nonsense as they are pretty standard things.

“If the real problem is money, and we suspect it is, we can have a proper conversation about that, because this investment would save money.”

L’Ortolan in Shinfield revealed it has scooped three AA Rosettes, making the restaurant one of the best in the Thames Valley.

It was praised by inspectors for its “consummate modern gastronomy”.

Drivers were warned not to park on a roundabout. The Suttons Seeds roundabout in Earley has a concrete section in the middle that had been used by motorists looking for free parking, particularly from East Reading where Reading Borough Council runs a permit scheme.

Earlier in the year, the council placed a temporary parking restriction on the site after the paving cracked up under the weight of the vehicles, but this ran out and it started to be used again, including by council contractor Volker Highways.

A new restriction is to be made permanent.

Clockwise from left: The Young family on Family Fortunes; DJ Nik-Nak who won an award for her Pride work; parking on the Suttons Seeds roundabout; the return of The Giving Tree; Victory on Pointless Bottom picture: The COP26 climate justice march organised by Shinfield Baptist Church pastor Nathan Hunt

The first details of a new garden village for an area of land between Shinfield and Arborfield were revealed.

Wokingham Borough Council published its latest Draft Local Plan Update for consultation, outlining where homes could go.

Originally, the council hoped to create a new town in Grazeley, but the plan was nixed by the Ministry of Defence due to its proximity to AWE. Now, it wants to create 4,500 homes on Hall Farm, an area that usually floods when there is heavy rain.

There were concerns too over the council’s plans for

Pinewood Leisure Complex, home to a number of local groups and organisations. It was cited in the Draft Local Plan as a possible site for redevelopment including some housing, but there were no details beyond a commitment to invest some of the income from homes built back into the area. A petition was launched by concerned residents.

The Royal Berkshire Hospital revealed that demand for its Emergency services had risen 20%, and Steve McManus urged people to seek alternatives as the department was under extreme pressure.

As the COP26 climate

emergency conference got underway in Glasgow, a march was held in Reading organised

by Shinfield Baptist Church.

It saw politicians, members of the public and church groups come together to call for climate justice. Among the marchers was Reading East MP Matt Rodda, who said the large numbers attending was “a sign of people’s commitment to tackling the dangerous climate change.”

The annual Giving Tree appeal was launched in early November by Wokingham borough mayor Cllr Keith Baker, his deputy Cllr Abdul Loyes, and Wokingham town Mayor Cllr Tony Lack.

They gathered at Tesco in Wokingham where they met staff, and looked at the tags added to the store’s giving tree, before urging readers to come and choose a tag, buy the present listed on it and return it. All the toys donated would be given to disadvantaged children in time for Christmas Day so they had presents to open.

Tributes were paid to the founding headmaster of The Emmbrook School, Richard Carter, who died. He launched the school in 1965, and remained as headteacher

until he stepped down in 1983.

He was in his 90s when he passed away peacefully in his sleep. The current head, Nick McSweeney said: “He expressed real pride in this community”.

Remembrance parades returned after a year off due to the covid pandemic, with the procession from Wokingham town hall to All Saints Church the centrepiece for Wokingham’s remembrance.

Wreaths were also laid in the town hall memorial after the civic service.

Finchampstead held its first new-look ceremony in Memorial Park, rather than at the war memorial, while Swallowfield villagers knitted 1,000 poppies which were draped around the war memorial in the village. The service was filmed for ITV Meridian News.

A Wokingham-based DJ won an award for her support of the LGBT+ community. Nikki Gladwin-Stride, also known as DJ Nik Nak, won DJ Set of the Year at the Where Pride Lives awards. She takes part in Reading Pride, hosting the family area, and was full of praise for the event, held in September. “For a free festival, it’s pretty epic,” she said. “To

see families attending from all walks of life and celebrating diversity is a special feeling.”

A seven-year-old from Twyford raised £900 from greetings cards she had created for charity. Amelie Turnball said she hadn’t expected to raise so much money. Her mum Davina said, “It was this summer we found she the talent she has for watercolours.” Her designs are printed onto recycled card and the first batch sold out quickly.

At the time of publication the family had printed a fourth batch, which was selling from Home of Twyford, Antique Rose, and NOOD in Caversham, among other places.

Bracknell MP James Sunderland urged communities to sign up to a new speedwatch campaign, aimed at catching speeding motorists.

Mr Sunderland said: “There’s a problem with anti-social driving, traffic noise and excessive speed. It’s really important that we curb it.”

A Christmas shop with a twist was announced for Elms Field. Wokingham Foodbank, First Days and SHARE Wokingham teamed up to launch the Christmas Presence shop to provide gifts and food for struggling families across the festive season. Items on offer included Christmas jumpers and toys.

There were also craft sessions for children, and carol singing on the Saturdays running up to Christmas. Support and advice were also available.

Following on from problems with school places in Arborfield, the ruling executive voted to expand the new Farley Hill primary school to enable more pupils to attend.

Hare Hatch Sheeplands announced plans for a £5 million renovation to its site – subject to planning permission, of course. It held an exhibition to inform customers of its proposals.

There was anger over Wokingham’s Conservatives decision to shut down a debate on whether the council should join the White Ribbon campaign, this calls for men to take a stand against male violence against women, and asks them to call out bad behaviour when they see it.

The Lib Dems introduced a motion on the subject at the November council meeting, but Conservative councillors introduced an amendment to the motion that was approved.

This said it would consider its position at the council’s January meeting of the Equalities Working Group.

This wouldn’t be the last this subject would be touched on this year.

Thursday, December 30, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

NEWS | 21

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REVIEW OF YEAR WRITTEN BY PHIL CREIGHTON

REVIEW OF THE YEAR 2021: DECEMBER

Clockwise from above: A protest in support of the White Ribbon campaign; Theresa May at Woodley’s Christmas Fayre; and the Twyford Christmas light switchon; The aftermath of a collision between a car and Clarks shoes in Wokingham; the annual Toy Run returns; Cllr Shirley Boyt points to cars that were lifted, had double yellow lines painted on the road, then given a ticket

When parking fines when global; toy run’s big tribute; Mrs May switches on lights

A

BYELECTION called for Wescot East saw the Lib Dems take the seat and win overall control of Wokingham Town Council in the process.

The success saw its leader, Cllr Imogen Shepherd-Dubey reflect on the “long journey” to see the party take control of the council and, she added, it could be a sign of things to come in next year’s borough elections.

When she was elected to the council in 2015, she was the only Lib Dem. Since then, the electorate has shifted the balance of power.

A vigil was held outside Wokingham Borough Council’s Shute End offices ahead of an executive meeting to raise awareness of public feeling relating to the White Ribbon movement. Around 50 people came together for the protest, among them Cllr David Hare who proposed the motion brought to the council meeting earlier in November. “Men have got to tell other men how wrong the violence against women is,” he said. “This is an issue that needs tackling now.”

Council leader John Halsall said: “We fully support the principles and messages conveyed by the White Ribbon movement. We are committed to creating a community where everybody is safe … and a safe community for all.”

Wokingham Foodbank announced it was moving

to Winnersh, in a space off Reading Road. It needed to move to a larger space to meet demand. It will continue to offer foodbank collections from its Wokingham town centre base until February, before switching to Waterford House in Erftstadt Court, ensuring that people can still access help from Wokingham town centre.

Christmas came to Woodley with the return of its traditional events. First came the light switch-on, held on the last Saturday in November. The event included carol singing led by Woodley Concert Band, and seasonal refreshment.

Then the winter extravaganza returned, with a new look.

Now known as a winter fayre, the event was opened with speeches from MPs Theresa May and Matt Rodda, Wokingham borough mayor and Woodley Town Council leader Cllr Keith Baker, and the mayor of Woodley, Cllr Janet Sartorel.

Afterwards, Mrs May and Mr Rodda explored the many, many stalls with Mrs May coming away with some Christmas presents to give to her friends.

It was a busy time for Mrs May – she also switched on the Christmas lights in Twyford, joining people at Bell Corner to push the button. And as she did so, it started to snow. You couldn’t ask for a better start to the festive season.

Another festive tradition

that returned was Wokingham Town Council’s annual Dressing the Christmas Tree ceremony.

School children from across the borough made decorations that were placed onto the large Christmas tree next to Wokingham town hall, and presented them to the town mayor, Cllr Tony Lack, during an outdoor carol service.

Wokingham’s Winter Carnival returned, seeing crowds flock to the town centre. An estimated 15,000 people came along and enjoyed the show, raising thousands for Wokingham’s charities in the process. The chairman of the organisers, Philip Mirfin, had to miss the event because he came down with covid.

Another street fayre was held in Crowthorne, with hundreds flocking to the High Street for an evening of fun and late-night shopping. Santa set up a socially distanced grotto in Jim Finnie Square, while the Revd Kevin Mills from Crowthorne Baptist Church led a short carol service for people to enjoy.

A similar event took place in Twyford.

The Reading Toy Run also had a successful return, with motorcyclists donating thousands of toys to Barnardo’s. Sean Stillman, a good friend of Ben Spiller who organised the event and passed away earlier in the year, said that Mr Spiller’s ashes were scattered as the toy run

went along its route. Before the run started, 1,320 bikers and 300 pillion passengers all joined in a moment’s silence to remember him.

Mr Spiller said: “Ben was an ordinary bloke who founded something extraordinary.”

We’re delighted the event is carrying on in his memory.

Panto season returned, with CBeebies megastar Justin Fletcher writing and starring in The Hexagon’s show Beauty and the Beast. Sadly due to covid, many of the usual tropes couldn’t take place, including the lack of young dancers, but audiences were still able to join in the behind yous and booing the baddies.

The biggest story of the year had to be one of imperfect timing.

Workmen came to Blackthorn Close off Culver Lane, lifted the cars up to paint double yellow lines, put the cars back and then a traffic warden came by and gave them all parking tickets.

The mix-up came about because no warning was given to the residents before the work was carried out, and the council has promised that as a result, it will make changes to the way it informs residents in future.

It was all coincidental, but our story went global.

Sadly, covid rates continued to shoot up and up, first due to Delta and, as the month wore on, due to the Omicron variant.

Wokingham now has the highest rate per 100,000 in the county, with cases climbing in school children.

Wokingham United Charities revealed that since April it had donated £43,000 in grants to provide essential items to families in need.

This included 34 cookers and 13 fridge freezers, as well as microwaves, tumble dryers, beds and mattresses. Grants were made up to the value of £500.

One recipient, Sarah Lee, said she has fled domestic violence and have been left with nothing. With the help of Wokingham Citizens Advice, she received funding for a cooker.

“I am so grateful. It means the world to me,” she said.

Wokingham’s Poppy Appeal revealed that it had raised a record-breaking sum for its 100th anniversary: Wokingham residents gave an astonishing £58,038.91.

Organiser David Dunham received special recognition from the Royal British Legion for his amazing efforts, receiving a special Legion 100 pin – awarded to just 100 people – as a way of thanking him for his work. Mr Dunham said he had been involved in the appeal since he was a child.

He’s now a little older, and was thrilled with Wokingham’s generosity.

Shinfield Studios ended the year by finally announcing

who would be making movies at its new site: Disney. It’s very exciting.

There was good news for residents of Lower Earley, as the council’s planning committee rejected the Swallows Meadows proposals for a Lidl and 43 homes. Now, Earley Town Council leader Clive Jones said the land should be given to Wokingham Borough Council, protected as green space and rewilded, with new trees planted on the land to replace those that had been chopped down. However, the developer could lodge an appeal against the decision and have six months to do so.

A late-night driver had a bit of a kerfuffle, and managed to smash into the doors of Clarks shoe shop in Market Place.

Police arrested a 21-yearold from Slough and appealed for CCTV footage to help their investigation.

Two refurbishments took place: Sultan Balti House has spent £100,000 revamping its premises, while Mike Cobb has taken over The Jolly Farmer in Hurst and given it a spruce up.

A grand opening is planned in the new year.

We also reported on a visit of some petting animals to a Sindlesham care home.

Residents of Lord Harris Court were delighted to welcome a visit from some cute alpacas, Truffle and George.

The pictures put a smile on our faces.

22 | LEISURE

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, December 30, 2021

Wokingham’s Top 20 tracks from You can tune in att https:// spoti.fi/323SUor

RaW Sounds Today

Happy New Year to you – here’s to another 12 months of brilliant music.

Chris Hillman

1. The Paradox Twin – Wake Vortex

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W

ELL, Old Father Time is here ready for us to bid 2020

goodbye.

While many of us have had tough years thanks to covid, there have also been good spots.

In the summer, some festivals were able to return and we were thrilled that Wokingham was among them, as was Marvellous.

Some gigs have also been back as pubs saw restrictions ease.

But bands haven’t stopped making music. If anything, lockdown has helped those creative juices flow. We’ve seen some of the fruits of these labours in our weekly playlist,

and there will be more to come.

But as we raise a glass to 2020, and get ready to ring in the new, here’s a chance to look back at the 20 top tracks of the year.

As with last year, the RaW Sounds Today playlist has been chosen by a panel from the local music scene. Each track under consideration has featured in the RaWSounds.

Today and it’s predecessor, Wokingham Loves Music, playlists throughout the year.

It’s great that the Top 7 are all up-and-coming talent from the local area.

Importantly, for one week only the playlist can be found at a different Spotify location to usual – don’t worry, it’s still free to listen to.

This Reading band’s second album Silence from Signals has seen great reactions worldwide so no surprise that this is No1.

The album, takes you through powerful and beautiful moments with the stunning vocals of Danny Sorrell and Nicole Johnson combining wonderfully with the band’s musicianship.

They have performed live around the UK and Europe, but have never played their home town until now.

They have a special homecoming show at the Facebar on February 4 - https:// www.theparadoxtwin.com/

2. Third Lung – I A Fire Another local band that has done some great things in 2021. They released a stream of great singles during the year including this one and they showed what a quality live band they are with

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some excellent live shows.

They also created their own sell-out festival, Loddfest, in conjunction with the Loddon Brewery. A hard-working band and clearly one to watch in 2022 – http://thirdlungband. com/

3. Hoopy Frood – Round Shaped Hole

It had been about a 12- year wait for a new album from this Wokingham-based band but this year it arrived.

It was certainly worth the wait with this track being a highlight from that album entitled Affirmations. They also released a very cool video which is well worth checking out if you haven’t already https://www.hoopyfrood.co.uk/

4. Aaron Cilia – Infinitum Aaron is a talented young local musician, producer & sound engineer and this is an instrumental single that he released earlier this year on which he played every instrument himself – https://www.facebook.com/ AaronCiliaArtist/

5. The Wave Machine – Ocean’s Brew

Here’s an artist that had the crowd singing along with his uplifting summer feel set at Wokingham Festival this year.

He’s a Brighton-based singersongwriter, originally from the area – https://www.facebook. com/thewavemachine

6. A Better Life (ft. Pete Rawcliffe) – Wicked Game A beautiful new version

of the Chris Isaak classic by an electronica collective created by local musician Phil Daniels. This song was recorded with the help of singer Pete Rawcliffe – https:// abetterlifemusic.com/

7. Katie Ellwood – Self Love Here’s another talented young local songwriter who sings and plays every instrument on her releases.

This one showcases Katie’s chilled grooves and subtle melody and we love that closing string section – https:// www.katieellwood.com/

8. Ronnie Lane & Slim Chance – The Poacher

Wokingham Music Club continues to bring legendary artists to the town and one of those this year was Slim Chance which includes members who played with the late great Ronnie Lane – https://www.slim-chance.co.uk/

9. Split the Dealer – Chinchilla

This talented singer was at No.3 in our Top 20 of 2020 with his Deva St. John duet and here he is in Top 20 this year with one of his own excellent 2021 single releases – https://www. facebook.com/splitthedealer

10. Marky Dawson – Radio Gaga

Marky is a charismatic piano player with a huge voice who showed his quality with a stunning set at Wokingham Festival in August. Here’s his unique version of a Queen classic – https://www. markydawson.co.uk/

11. Hank Wangford – Perfect Day This is the opening song on the UK Country/Americana legend’s latest album ‘Holey Holey’. He was due to play at Wokingham Music Club but it was unfortunately cancelled.

Hopefully we’ll see him back soon – http://www. hankwangford.co.uk/

12. Mike Wagner – Be Yours Mike performed at live events during 2021 including Wokingham Festival & Loddfest. This song from his Life... A Seven Day Journey album showcases the talents of this local singer songwriter – https://www.facebook.com/ mikewagnermusic

13. Kyros – Cloudburst (Isolation Sessions)

This is on the band’s Celexa Streams album which was recorded during their critically acclaimed virtual lockdown shows.

They topped our chart last year with ‘Rumour’ from their ‘Celexa Dreams’ album - http:// www.kyrosmusic.com/

14. The 286 – One Way Love The 286 are a rock ‘n’ roll orchestra who perform their unique interpretations of classical pieces and more as well as their own self-penned songs. They performed at Wokingham Festival in August - https://www.the286.co.uk/

15. Valeras – Let Me Go Reading-based indie rock duo Valeras are here with a single from their Tell Me Now

Thursday, December 30, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

LEISURE | 23

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2021 – is your favourite here?

Hoopy Frood at Wokingham Festival Picture: Andrew Merritt EP. They performed some great live shows during the year including at Sub89 and an ‘in store’ at Wokingham’s Beyond the Download – https://www.facebook.com/ valerasband

16. Mississippi Voss – Stranger in Paradise

The Paradox Twin head our 2021 Top 20 of the year Picture: Will Ireland

They describe themselves as an indie-funk duo from Berkshire and they played a great set on the Wokingham Music Club Stage at Wokingham Festival in August – https://www.facebook.com/ mississippi.voss

17. Red Tape Resistance – Time is a Killer

This single from the Bracknell based band has a mellow atmospheric opening gradually building in intensity to a strong and powerful closing section – https://www.facebook.com/ redtaperesistance

18. Moth Man – Fatal Blow They have band members in Reading and Manchester and this is a track from their excellent debut album, Where The Dead Birds Go released on Wokingham’s

Third Lung at Wokingham Festival Picture: Andrew Merritt Billywitch Records – https:// mothman.band

19. In Albion – Earth Here’s a band from Surrey who describe themselves as a ‘theatrical prog rock band’ and who performed shows in the local area including one of the Peach Place Wokingham events put on by the Beyond the Download record store https://inalbion.net/

20. Deva St.John – Reckless

This talented singer was at

No.3 in our Top 20 of 2020 with her Split the Dealer duet.

She makes our Top 20 this year in her own right with one of her quality single releases – https://www.facebook.com/ dayvasaintjohn

THE PANEL AND THEIR TOP TRACKS OF THE YEAR

n ANDREW MERRITT (Andrew Merritt Photography) Top track from the year’s playlists - ‘Round Shaped Hole’ by Hoopy Frood Top non playlist track – ‘Liquidator’ by Harry J Allstars

n CHRIS HILLMAN (White Star Records / Magick Eye Records) Top track from the year’s playlists - ‘I A Fire’ by Third Lung Top non playlist track – ‘Parachutes’ by Moron Police n DEAN NELSON (Generation Studio) Top track from the year’s playlists - ‘I A Fire’ by Third Lung Top non playlist track – ‘The Ripple’ by Grizfolk n JOHN BLANEY (Mega Dodo Records / Billywitch Records) Top track from the year’s playlists - ‘The Poacher’ by Ronnie Lane & Slim Chance Top non playlist track – ‘Black Bear’ by The Halluci Nation n STAN HETHERINGTON (Wokingham Music Club & Wokingham Festival) Top track from the year’s playlists - ‘Ocean’s Brew’ by The Wave Machine Top non playlist track – ‘More Than A Miracle’ by The Blow Monkeys

n The ‘non Wokingham’ panel faves have been added as extra tracks to the Top 20 Playlist of the year. Top 20 Playlist Link is at https://spoti.fi/323SUor

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No. 5394

Your daily puzzle challenge

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, December 30, 2021

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Quiz Challenge

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NONAGRAM

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Each number in our Cross Code grid represents a different letter of the alphabet. You have three letters in the control grid to start you off. Enter them in the appropriate squares in the main grid, then use your knowledge of words to work out which letters should go in the missing squares.

As you get the letters, fill in other squares with the same number in the main grid and control grid. Check off the alphabetical list of letters as you identify them.

MAGIC SQUARE

HEALTH SALES ALARM

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How many words of four letters or more can you make from this Nonagram? Each word must use the central letter, and each letter may be used only once. At least one word using all nine letters can be found.

Guidelines: 11 Good; 13 Very Good; 15 Excellent.

Any word found in the Concise Oxford Dictionary (Tenth Edition) is eligible with the following exceptions: proper nouns; plural nouns, pronouns and possessives; third person singular verbs; hyphenated words; contractions and abbreviations; vulgar slang words; variant spellings of the same word (where another variant is also eligible).

Using all 16 letters of the phrase above, form four words each of four letters which will fit in the grid to form a magic square in which the words can be read both horizontally and vertically.

Spell out a 15-letter word or phrase by moving from one chamber to another within the pyramid. You may only enter each of the chambers once and may only proceed R through openings in the walls. The O first letter may appear in any chamber.

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2. Take away tar pipe (6) 3. Loop on optic broken (5) 4. See through doctor breaking law (6) 5. Scream at seeing mass of debris on church (7) 6. Heavenly twins (6) 7. Clothes that shouldn’t be worn out (13) 13. Learnt about duets I’d composed (7) 15. Sailors reportedly on pleasure trip (6) 16. Clothes, you say, included with restraint (6) 17. Nocturnal primate eats a tuber (6) 19. I name surly fellow to suffer (5)

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To try our new puzzle, Zygolex, go to www.zygolex.com

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This puzzle page is supplied by Sirius Media Services Ltd.

© Sirius Media Services Ltd

DOWN 1. School covering all risks?

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QUICK CROSSWORD 1

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Perform the first calculation in each line first and ignore the mathematical law which says you should always perform division and multiplication before addition and subtraction.

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Here are two miniature fivesquare crosswords using the same grid – but the letters have been mixed up.

You have to work out which letters belong to which crossword.

Place the four signs (add, subtract, multiply, divide) one in each circle so that the total of each across and down line is the same.

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WORD PYRAMID: By hook or by crook.

EQUALISER: Clockwise from top left – subtract; add; divide; multiply.

Total: 10.

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EQUALISER 12 12 8 2 4 7 8 5 4 2 2 2

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6. The Jaffa orange was first hybridised in which country?

7. Who took up the position of Chief Medical Adviser to the UK Government in 2019?

8. “Whatever our souls are made of, his and mine are the same” is a quote from which classic Bronte novel?

9. What G is a semi-precious gem and the birthstone for January?

10. Who did British tennis star Emma Raducanu beat in the 2021 US Open final?

2. Surfin’ USA, Good Vibrations and Wouldn’t It Be Nice were hit songs for which American band?

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1. The Jasper National Park is in which country?

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CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

PZ1P5394

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CROSS CODE

5394

ACROSS 1. Curved shape (8) 8. Substantial (6) 9. Biblical garden (4) 10. Vehicle (3) 11. Type of acid (6) 12. Huge (8) 15. Womb (6) 16. Diminish (6) 20. Couch (3,3) 24. Meal (6) 27. Endearing (8) 28. Feeding trough (6)

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29. Gear (3) 30. Profound (4) 31. Distend (6) 32. Vikings (8) DOWN 2. Blistering (3-3) 3. Detector (6) 4. Surplus (6) 5. Slavery (6) 6. Stroke (6) 7. Endeavour (6) 12. Dairy product (4) 13. Tax (4)

14. Certain (4) 17. Large jug (4) 18. Crust formed over wound (4) 19. Short letter (4) 21. Slow (mus.) (6) 22. Mendicant (6) 23. Ranked (anag.) (6) 24. Cad (6) 25. Light oar (6) 26. Part of garment (6)

FIVE ALIVE: QUIZ CHALLENGE: 1 Canada; 2 The Beach Boys; 3 Tin; 4 Q; 5 They were issued with lime juice to combat scurvy; 6 Israel; 7 Professor Chris Whitty; 8 Wuthering Heights; 9 Garnet; 10 Leylah Fernandez.

(1) Across – Algae; Haunt; Nodal.

Down – Ashen; Gourd; Extol.

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD: CROSS CODE 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 Across – 1 Clapper; 8 Unclean; 9 Modicum; 10 Beeline; 11 (2) Across – Beset; Lobby; Suede.

P A G T E C I O X D Q B V Recital; 12 Etching; 14 Excited; 18 Uniform; 20 Shudder; 21 Down – Bolts; Sable; Thyme.

14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 Enchain; 22 Vespers; 23 Serious.

L Y Z W R U F H J N S M K Down – 1 Comprehensive; 2 Abduct; 3 Picot; 4 Rumble; 5 NONAGRAM: elfin; fail; fain; fane; fanzine; faun; faze; Screech; 6 Gemini; 7 Undergarments; 13 Studied; 15 Cruise; 16 file; final; finale; fine; flan; flea; flue; MAGIC SQUARE: EASY SUDOKU HARD SUDOKU Duress; 17 Potato; 19 Incur. mash; area; sell; fuel; funnel; INFLUENZA; leaf; lief; halt. life; naif.

QUICK CROSSWORD: Across – 1 Crescent; 8 Hearty; 9 Eden; 10 Car; 11 Acetic; 12 Colossal; 15 Uterus; 16 Lessen; 20 Day bed; 24 Repast; 27 Adorable; 28 Manger; 29 Kit; 30 Deep; 31 Dilate; 32 Norsemen.

Down – 2 Red-hot; 3 Sensor; 4 Excess; 5 Thrall; 6 Caress; 7 Strive; 12 Curd; 13 Levy; 14 Sure; 17 Ewer; 18 Scab; 19 Note; 21 Adagio; 22 Beggar; 23 Darken; 24 Rotter; 25 Paddle; 26 Sleeve.

SPORT | 25

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READING FC

ROYALS FACE CHALLENGES IN CLUB’S ANNIVERSARY YEAR

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today

IN the club’s 150th anniversary year, it’s certainly been one to remember, but not always for the right reasons.

The club were involved in negotiations with the EFL for several months after breaching profit and sustainability regulations over a number of years which eventually saw them deducted six points.

On top of that, like all other clubs around the country, they have had to deal with the ongoing pandemic which has seen fixtures postponed among other restrictions with almost the entirety of the 2020/21 season being played behind closed doors.

Having made a flying start under Veljko Paunovic in the Serbian’s first season in charge, the Royals looked likely to make a push for the play-offs.

2021 began with a 2-1 away win at Huddersfield and continued to be a profitable month, only dropping points in a goaless draw at Preston.

The Royals picked up arguably their most impressive win of the year against eventual runners-up Bournemouth in a 3-1 home victory.

February was less successful with two wins, a draw and four defeats, with three of the four losses coming at home.

Form picked up in March with a run of three games without defeat, including wins over Blackburn Rovers and Sheffield Wednesday.

But the month ended in disappointment with draws at Nottingham Forest and QPR, and a 2-1 away loss to Birmingham City as Reading started to lose grip on their place in the top six.

A torrid run of form in the final two months of the campaign saw

Reading celebrate after scoring a goal – we hope to see more of that in 2022 Picture: Steve Smyth Reading slip out of the play-off places, with injuries to key players including John Swift proving pivotal to their downfall.

They won just one of their final 11 Championship matches which left them in seventh at the end of the campaign, seven points outside of the play-off places.

Despite their faltering form at the end of the season, Michael Olise was awarded with the Championship’s Young Player of the Season award for his outstanding contribution.

But with a transfer embargo in place, it would prove to be a tricky summer for the club to negotiate.

Olise was rewarded with a move

to Premier League Crystal Palace, while another one of the season’s formidable performers, Omar Richards, left on a free transfer with a spectacular move to European giants Bayern Munich.

It was a challenging couple of summer months for the club with transfer restrictions in place which saw them bolster their squad with the arrival of loan signings and free transfers.

Danny Drinkwater and Baba Rahman both arrived on loan for the season from Chelsea, while Tom Dele-Bashiru joined for the season from Watford.

The club took advantage of the free agents market by signing

Junior Hoilett and experienced defender Scott Dann.

Injuries, transfer embargos and points deductions have all played big factors in the 2021/22 season which started with a 3-2 defeat to Stoke City.

Reading followed that up with a win in their first home match in August with two goals from Femi Azeez helping them to three points over Preston.

The month ended terribly with losses to Bristol City and Coventry City before a humiliating 4-0 loss to Huddersfield Town.

Reading picked up form in September with an enthralling 3-3 draw at home to QPR and wins over Peterborough and Middlesbrough.

Meanwhile, they earned probably their most impressive result to date with a surprising 2-1 victory over promotion favourites Fulham after an Ovie Ejaria double.

Wins over Cardiff City and Barnsley saw Reading start October well only to lose three on the bounce to see them slide further down the table.

November saw the arrival of well-renowned forward Andy Carroll, who signed on a short-term deal with the club.

Carroll made his mark in a 3-2 away win at Swansea as he found the net alongside summer loan signings Danny Drinkwater and Tom Dele-Bashiru.

The last month of the calendar year has been greatly impacted by a surge in covid cases which has seen three successive matches postponed, including what would have been the club’s 150thanniversary match against Luton Town just before Christmas.

The club is now planning to mark their special birthday in 2022 in February’s home match against Blackburn.

PREVIEW

READING RETURN AGAINST BOTTOM CLUB

READING FC are hoping to be back in action to host Derby County at the Select Car Leasing Stadium on Wednesday, January 3.

The Royals have been one of many teams that have had a depleted squad due to Covid-19 and injuries, causing three successive fixtures over the festive season to be postponed.

Veljko Paunovic’s side were last in action on Saturday, December 11 when they lost 1-0 at West Brom, leaving them just one place above the Championship drop zone.

There are parallels to draw between the two sides who have both been punished with points deductions this season.

Ovie Ejaria in action against Derby Picture: Steve Smyth Reading have lost six points, meanwhile, Derby 21 points, leaving them at the foot of the table.

Despite their problems off the pitch, the Rams have found some form on the pitch with six wins, 10 draws giving them seven points.

It will take a monumental effort from Wayne Rooney’s team to avoid the drop, with a 14-point gap separating them from the relegation zone and Reading in 21st.

They have struggled to find the net with regularity and have scored just 19 goals in 23 matches.

However, they have been formidable at the other end of the pitch and boast one of the finest defensive records in the division.

They have conceded 21 goals, a record that is only bettered by the top two in the Championship, Bournemouth and Fulham, and fourth-placed West Brom.

Derby have picked up some inspired results with some spirited

displays including a goalless draw at Fulham on the back of a magnificent 3-2 victory over league leaders Bournemouth.

They managed to heap more misery on another team hopeful of promotion on Monday, December 27, when they earned three points at home to West Brom.

The last meeting between the teams saw Derby take the points with a 1-0 triumph earlier in the season as Craig Forsyth netted the only goal of the game.

The Royals were victorious on the Rams’ last visit to the SCL with a 3-1 win in April 2021 with goals from Michael Olise, George Puscas and Lucas Joao.

FOOTBALL

THIRD SUCCESSIVE MATCH FALLS TO POSTPONEMENT

Danny Drinkwater in action for Reading Picture: Steve Smyth LAST NIGHT’S match against Fulham was another victim of the resurgent Omicron strain of covid.

And it was the third successive Royals match called off after their scheduled 150thanniversary match at home to Luton Town, and an away game at Peterborough United on Boxing Day were both cancelled.

This means that Reading’s next scheduled fixture will be against Derby County on Monday, January 3 – unless it also gets pulled due to the pandemic.

A statement on the club’s website reads: “A significant number of ongoing Covid-19 cases continues to severely impact already injuryhit first team and Under-23 squads at the club and, during such a hectic period in the festive fixture schedule, there has been insufficient time for enough players to safely return from their periods of isolation or recover from the symptoms of the virus.

“We approached the EFL to inform them about the current situation and it was confirmed that the fixture against Fulham would consequently be postponed.

“We wholeheartedly apologise for the inconvenience and understandable disappointment this postponement causes to both home and away supporters.

“We have worked extremely hard to ensure we would be able to fulfil this fixture, so this decision was reached reluctantly by all at the club.

“This is an entirely unprecedented situation. However, we have to appreciate that these are unprecedented circumstances we live in.

“And we hope our supporters understand that the health and safety of our players, coaching team and staff must remain our highest priority at this uncertain time.”

The fixture will be rescheduled in due course with all tickets purchased remain valid.

All tickets are also eligible for a refund if supporters are unable to attend the rearranged match.

26 | SPORT

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, December 30, 2021

BOARS END 2021 IN STYLE WITH FOOTBALL ROUND-UP

Joe Pantony starts an attack during Eversley & Californi’as win against AFC Aldermaston Pictures: Richard Milam

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today

Combined Counties Division One EVERSLEY & CALIFORNIA ended 2021 in style by hitting five past AFC Aldermaston.

The Boars made the best start possible and flew in front after just 20 seconds when Ross Mckernan latched onto the rebound of Brad Brown’s shot to score.

Eversley found themselves

Wokingham & Emmbrook in action against Ascot Pictures: Andrew Batt

two goals in front in the 15th minute when Jamie Griggs met Harinder Hunjan’s corner and powered a header past the goalkeeper.

Matty Angell’s team notched a third goal before the break when Harinder Hunkan broke free of the offside trap and squared the ball across for Brown who slotted it in to give them a 3-0 lead.

Reece Buckett continued Eversley’s tremendous afternoon when he lobbed the keeper from 35 yards out to put

them four in front.

Eversley capped off the perfect away performance with a fifth when Lewis Wall smashed a shot into the top corner from 30 yards out.

Eversley & California: Pidgeon, Dickie, Moriarty, Griggs, Pantony, Blackie, Catt, Wint, Brown, Singh, Mckernan Subs: Buckett, Wall, Farruggia, Frewin, Gill

Combined Counties Premier North WOKINGHAM & EMMBROOK

are just one place off the bottom of the table after defeat to Ascot United.

Ascot started strongly and troubled the Sumas defence after just two minutes but skipper Cummuskey turned the ball over the crossbar.

But the hosts ensured they took advantage of their fast start and netted from the resulting corner through Gutteridge.

Goalkeeper Aron Kanyai came up with an important save just a few minutes after

to prevent Wokingham from falling further behind.

Ascot continued to create chances and put pressure on the Sumas’ backline and doubled their advantage in the 12th minute when the visitors failed to clear their lines from a corner and Gutteridge converted at the back post.

Eliot Whitehouse’s team grabbed a goal back to get back in the contest in the 28th minute when Clark beat several Ascot defenders before he slotted the ball past the keeper.

Clark had a chance to find a second before the break with a free header but was denied by Ascot keeper Sam Gray which kept United in the lead at halftime.

The Yellamen restored their two-goal advantage early after the restart when Daniel Bailey scored from a corner.

The home side found a fourth on the hour mark to put Ascot into a commanding lead.

With 15 minutes to go, Chris Robson smashed in a sensational strike from

Thursday, December 30, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

SPORT | 27

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FIVE-GOAL VICTORY

From the middle

Dick Sawdon-Smith

The loss of referees

W

FOOTBALL

BINFIELD’S WEMBLEY HEROICS AND A SEASON OF CHANGE FOR SUMAS

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today

25 yards into the top corner to claw a goal back for the Sumas.

Josh Harris had the chance to set up a grand stand finish when he played Olly Noyes through one-on-one, but he was thwarted by the keeper.

But the Sumas were unable to force the issue and fell to a 4-2 loss.

Wokingham are in 17th position in the Combined Counties Premier North with 12 points from 18 matches, one point above bottom side Holyport having played two less games.

Wokingham & Emmbrook: Kanyai, O’Connell, Cummuskey (c), Badshah, Tuttle, Riley, Carter, Shaw, Curtis, Harris, Clark Subs: Robson, Hodge, Pearson, Noyes

READING CITY ended the calendar year with a heavy home defeat to Tadley Calleva.

The away team made a bright start, and created an early opening from a corner but stabbed the ball wide from a corner.

City goalkeeper Charlie York then made an important stop when he turned a goalbound shot over the bar.

York got in the way of another effort just a few minutes later to keep the game scoreless.

The Cityzens then created two chances of their own when Joe Pilling found Tyler D’Cruz but he couldn’t direct his effort on goal, before the hosts were

unable to convert following a goal mouth scramble.

Tadleythen struck the frame of the goal when they stole possession from Reading, only to be denied by the crossbar.

Reading broke down the other end with a two-on-one following Tadley’s missed chance but couldn’t capitalise.

Just moments later, Tadley hit the bar again with a powerful volley as the half came to a close with no change to the score.

Five minutes after the restart, City took the lead when captain Jemel Johnson sent the goalkeeper the wrong way from the penalty spot to open the scoring.

Tadley were only behind for two minutes when Ben Wright levelled the game.

The away team completed a quick turnaround and were in front two minutes later.

Tadley found a third in a remarkable spell in the game to race into a 3-1 lead in the 64th minute.

The visitors put the game beyond doubt in the 76th minute with a fourth to secure a 4-1 victory.

The result means that Reading remain in 12th position after 19 matches on 21 points.

Reading City: York, Desousa, Baker, Baines, Gallimore, Grant, Le Paih, Pilling, D’Cruz, Touray, Johnson (c) Subs: Parker, Holder, O’Kelly, Davis, Butcher

BINFIELD FC enjoyed a remarkable year with the undeniable highlight being their magnificent journey in the FA Vase.

The Moles had the mother of all cup runs which saw them reach the promised land of a final contested at Wembley Stadium.

Carl Withers and Jamie McClurg’s team booked their place at the home of English football in the most dramatic of circumstances with several penalty shootout victories.

Despite covid restrictions being in place, both teams, Warrington Rylands and Binfield, were able to take a maximum of 2,000 to celebrate the occasion, which was also broadcast live on BT Sport.

The match was a contest befitting of a final which saw Warrington come out on top with a 3-2 win to take the trophy.

The Moles are currently in eighth place in the Isthmian South Central having been promoted to step four at the beginning of the season.

It has been a season of change at WOKINGHAM & EMMBROOK after long-term managers Dan Bateman and Matt Eggleston departed at the start of the campaign.

The management duo had led the club to a successful period which culminated in their promotion to step five where they now compete in the Combined Counties Premier North.

Eliot Whitehouse took over the reins at Lowther Road in what has been a transitional season so far for the club.

The Sumas are currently one place off the bottom of the table

in a challenging first half of the season.

EVERSLEY & CALIFORNIA have had a superb first half of the campaign in the Combined Counties Division One. Their tremendous recent form has seen them climb up to fourth in the table where they now have a shot of promotion if they can maintain their purple patch.

WOODLEY UNITED are beginning to find their feet under manager Christian Parker in the same division.

After a turbulent start, the Kestrels ended the year with an away win which put them up to 16th.

WOODLEY UNITED LADIES have had a tricky start to the season in the Southern Region Women’s Premier Division.

They are at the foot of the table with one win from 10 matches.

TILEHURST PANTHERS have had a tremendous run in the Thames Valley Women’s Division One. After 10 matches, they sit in second place with six wins.

CAVERSHAM UNITED are in sixth on nine points, while WARGRAVE are just two points behind in seventh.

S4K BERKS COUNTY sits proudly at the top of the tree in the Thames Valley Women’s Division 3S. A colossal effort has seen them win nine of their 10 opening matches.

CAVERSHAM AFC are going strongly in fourth place with 14 points, while EVERSLEY & CALIFORNIA RESERVES are in eighth and WARGRAVE DEVELOPMENT are ninth.

HEN you buy something online these days it is almost always followed by a questionnaire asking what you thought of the website and of the store’s service.

All with the intention we assume, of seeing if they need to make some improvement.

Some firms also have exit interviews when people leave their employment.

This is something I feel we are lacking in football in this country.

We are told that something like 7,000 referees give up the whistle each year.

According to the FA, about the same number are recruited, but there is still never enough to provide referees for all games played.

Also only about a sixth of these new referees are 16 or older.

It is only referees over 16, who can referee what is called, open-age football.

Under that age, they can only referee games of players two years younger than themselves.

When you consider that the refereeing lifetime of many of these young men and women is about two years, this doesn’t help local adult football very much.

I read a report recently by a local Referees Association recruitment officer, who in reporting a loss of membership, said: “We don’t know why they have left, we assume they have found a more interesting hobby”.

I ought to point out to anyone who is not aware, that the Referees Association is not connected with the FA. It started as a referees’ union and its aim is for the betterment of referees.

It means that referees do not have to join, although there are many benefits if they do.

When I was chairman of the Reading Referees Association we used to phone anyone who didn’t re-join and ask why.

In this way we could look at what we were providing, was it good enough.

This year we understand that the dropout from refereeing is higher than ever but, of course, the pandemic has prevented any training courses taking place to recruit new referees.

County FAs throughout the country are working hard running courses to catch up but as I think I’ve shown, it will be some time before they reach adult football, and we need to discover what’s needed to retain them.

28 | SPORT

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RUGBY UNION

RAMS: MIXED START IS THE STORY SO FAR

By RICHARD ASHTON sport@wokingham.today

RAMS RFC head into the Christmas break sitting eighth in the National One table after their Friday Night Lights game against Chinnor was postponed due to a Covid outbreak in the visitors’ ranks.

In what has been an up-and-down campaign to date, Seb Reynolds’ side started the season with a six-try blitz and 34-28 victory at Cambridge as Tom Vooght bagged a brace and Jamie Guttridge, Connor Hayhow, Kieran Leicester and Henry Bird all touched down to secure a bonus-point success.

They followed up with another four-try triumph at home to Tonbridge Juddians, a penalty try and further scores from Ben Henderson and Ollie Cole putting the hosts 19-6 up at half-time, before Hayhow’s second in as many weeks helped wrap up a 24-13 win.

Week Three saw Rams make their maiden trip to Plymouth Albion, eventually coming away with a 26-19 win in front of a passionate home crowd.

Bird, Ollie Moffitt, Ellis Jones and Connor Stapley were the try-scorers, but the visitors had to withstand a late rally from Albion.

A perfect start to the season continued with a fourth consecutive bonus-point success as Leeds Tykes went down 29-11 at Old Bath Road.

Jack Rossiter dives over against Sale

Jamie Guttridge runs in a try at Rosslyn Park Pictures: Paul Clark Vooght was again at the double and Bird, Ollie Taylor and Cole also touched down to temporarily take Rams to the top-of-the-table at the end of September.

The early-season form was recognised as the RFU named the side Team of the Month for Levels Three and Four, but that proved something of a curse as the unbeaten run came to a halt with an 18-17 defeat from the last play of the game at Taunton Titans.

On a miserable afternoon, things had started well for the visitors with two Jones scores

helping his side move 17-3 up early in the second half, but Titans hit back and ultimately snatched the win with Gary Kingdom’s penalty proving the last action of the match.

Rams rallied, however, and in the highlight of the season to date, downed Rosslyn Park 24-21 in front of almost 1,000 fans at OBR. A breath-taking opening 40 minutes saw the hosts go into the break 24-0 up with Bird having touched down twice and Guttridge also on the scoresheet, and despite

Tom Vooght touches down at Cambridge a brave comeback from Park, Rams held on.

They made it six wins from seven with a battling 21-19 triumph at Bishop’s Stortford the week after, Jak Rossiter grabbing an interception score on his first start of the season before a penalty try and Robbie Stapley effort just got the visitors over the line.

Vooght grabbed his fifth and sixth tries of the season at Darlington Mowden Park, but despite Moffitt and Max Hayman both also crossing, the hosts ran out 29-23 winners.

And another defeat followed in Week Nine, Sale inflicting a 32-21 defeat on the hosts despite Hayman’s brace and Rossiter’s fine finish.

Rams returned to winning ways with a dramatic 22-20 home success against highflying Cinderford following a three-week break to get their campaign back on track.

After Humberstone and Liam Hemming had exchanged penalties, Rams hit the front when Ollie Taylor crossed, only for tries from George Porter and Nathan Taylor to give the Foresters a 13-8 half-time lead.

ISTHMIAN FOOTBALL

MOLES HUMBLED BY LEAGUE LEADERS

By ARTHUR STRAND sport@wokingham.today

Bracknell Town 5 Binfield 0 BINFIELD were punished by league leaders Bracknell Town who put five past the Moles without reply.

The local derby kicked off at Bottom Meadow on Bank Holiday Monday when Bracknell immediately took the ball away and up to the far end created an early corner kick which was collected by Chris Grace in Binfield’s goal.

Ten minutes had elapsed when Max Herbert took a glancer from an incoming ball from the left wing, wrong footing the keeper.

An early lead gave Bracknell added confidence and Binfield found it a struggle to compete but the guys battled on anyway.

Moles gained a free kick after Bowerman had attempted a shot which was headed out and some good passing by Bracknell took them closer to goal but the last pass saw a front runner offside.

Herbert, with the ball at his feet, rounded the defenders but the shot went behind for a corner kick.

Bowerman took a shot which was saved by Grace but a corner was conceded.

With the ball in open play, a handball gave Moles a free kick and Robins regained the ball and a good approach forced another corner kick.

When Moles broke away, a foul

gave them a free kick and McClurg found the wall from just outside the penalty area.

Ethan Burden distributed the ball to the left flank and Shamar Moore went on a long sprint and a corner ensued.

Bowerman then added a second just before the break to make it 2-0 to Bracknell.

Bowerman then boosted his game after the interval with a shot on target which Chris Grace tipped round the post for a corner kick and the header went over the crossbar. Having gained ground, Robins took a corner kick which was hoofed clear by an alert defender.

On the hour, Bowerman made his tally go to two as Robins dominated play and the third goal provided a cushion for the rest of the game as long as

Robins did not get too complacent.

All systems were revived and in the 72nd minute, Bowerman collected his hat-trick with Bracknell running up the tally of four goals to the good.

Two minutes later he added his fourth for the Robins to secure a convincing win for the side at the top of the table.

Bracknell Town: 1. Eacott, (GK). 2. Dean. 3.

Burden. 4. Eweka. 5. Bayliss. 6. Rees. 7.

Herbert. (c). 8. Atkinson. 9. Shamar Moore.

10. Knight. 11. Bowerman. Substitutes: 12.

Culley. 14. Clark. 15. Lewthwaite. 16. Aksio.

17. Genovesi.

Binfield: Grace: 1. (GK). 2. Thomson-Wheeler.

3. Legg. 4. K. Duncan. 5. Gavin. 6. Rowe.

7. Harris. 8. McClurg. 9. Sean Moore. 10.

Montague. 11. Tack.

Substitutes: 12. Gater. 14. K. Maloney. 15.

Valentino. 16. Howell. 17. Griffiths.

Yet Bird went over for a converted score before Rams bagged a penalty try from the scrum, and despite Taylor’s second, added to by Hemming, the hosts held on for victory.

However, after their trip to Birmingham Moseley was postponed because of snow, Rams suffered a disappointing 17-13 home loss to Blackheath.

A Freddie Gabbitass penalty put the visitors in front, but a Guttridge try and five points from Humberstone’s boot steadied the ship.

Gabbitass converted an Ollie Claxton try to level, but another Humberstone penalty made it 13-10 at the break.

However, it was Club who took the spoils as Gabbitass’ conversion of Jake Lloyd’s try proved the only points of the second period.

Lastly, Rams’ 152-match tryscoring streak ended with a 20-3 reverse at in-form Caldy.

Humberstone and Ben Jones exchanged penalties to leave the teams locked at 3-3 at the break, but tries from Jack Parker and Joe Sanders, added to by seven points from the boot of Jones, sealed the win for the Ravers.

All this leaves Rams with 36 points from their 12 games – meaning they have two in hand on most sides above them in the table – ahead of a trip to bottom side Tonbridge Juddians when play hopefully resumes on Saturday, January 8.

RESULTS

Sunday, December 26

FOOTBALL Sky Bet Championship Peterborough P-P Reading

Monday, December 27

FIXTURES Fixtures may be postponed due to covid situation. Check before travelling to avoid disappointment.

Monday, January 3

FOOTBALL Sky Bet Championship Reading v Derby County

FOOTBALL Isthmian South Central Bracknell Town 5-0 Binfield

Isthmian South Central Marlow v Binfield

Combined Counties Premier North Ascot United 4-2 Sumas Reading City 1-4 Tadley Calleva

Combined Counties Division One Berks County v Chalvey Sports Eversley & California v Cove Woodley United v AFC Aldermaston

Combined Counties Division One Berks County P-P Sandhurst Town AFC Aldermaston 0-5 Eversley & California

Wednesday, December 29

FOOTBALL Sky Bet Championship Reading P-P Fulham

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ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 WOKINGHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL (VARIOUS ROADS, WOKINGHAM BOROUGH) (TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF DRIVING) ORDER 2021 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: 1. Dunt Lane, Hurst between its junctions with Little Hill Road and Green Lane.

The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via Little Hill Road and Green Lane, or by this route in reverse.

2. Green Lane, Hurst between its junctions with Dunt Lane and Little Hill Road.

The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via Dunt Lane and Little Hill Road, or by this route in reverse.

Works requiring this restriction will take place between 17th January and 19th January 2022.

The reason for these prohibitions is to allow Thames Water contractors to undertake installation work in safety.

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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 17th January 2022 and shall continue in force for a period not exceeding 18 months or until the works have been completed, whichever is the earlier.

Dated: 30th December 2021 Mark Cupit Assistant Director – Delivery and Infrastructure Wokingham Borough Council Civic Offices Shute End Wokingham Berkshire RG40 1WL

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ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 WOKINGHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL (A329 SHUTE END (EASTBOUND), WOKINGHAM) (TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF DRIVING) ORDER 2021 NOTICE IS HEREBY given that on the 23rd December 2021 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: A329 Shute End (Eastbound), Wokingham between its junctions with A321 Station Road and A329 Broad Street.

The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via A321 Station Road, B3349 Barkham Road, Molly Millars Lane, A321 Finchampstead Road, A321 Sandhurst Road, B3430 Nine Mile Ride, Old Wokingham Road, Peacock Lane, Vigar Way, A329 Berkshire Way, A329 London Road, A329 Peach Street, A329 Market Place and A329 Broad Street.

Works requiring this restriction will take place on 7th January 2022 between 20:00 and 06:00.

The reason for these prohibitions is to allow Wokingham Borough Council contractors to undertake electrical power supplycable transfer and associated work in safety.

Access for residents and businesses within the boundaries of these restrictions will be maintained at all times.

The restriction imposed by the Order shall only apply during those periods when traffic signs complying with the Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions 2016 are lawfully displayed.

The restrictions contained in the Order shall come into operation on the 7th January 2022 and shall continue in force for a period not exceeding 18 months or until the works have been completed, whichever is the earlier.

Dated: 30th December 2021 Mark Cupit Assistant Director – Delivery and Infrastructure Wokingham Borough Council Civic Offices Shute End Wokingham Berkshire RG40 1WL

ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 WOKINGHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL (SCARLETTS LANE, HARE HATCH) (TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF DRIVING) ORDER 2021 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:

ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 WOKINGHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL (VARIOUS ROADS, WOKINGHAM BOROUGH) (TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF DRIVING) ORDER 2021 NOTICE IS HEREBY given that on the 23rd December 2021 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. Mill Lane, Earley between its junctions with B3270 Lower Earley Way North and B3030 Mole Road.

The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via B3030 Mole Road, B3030 King Street Lane, Hatch Farm Way, B3270 Lower Earley Way North, A329 Reading Road, A329 Wokingham Road, B3350 Wilderness Road, B3350 Elm Road, A327 Shinfield Road, B3270 Lower Earley Way West and B3270 Lower Earley Way or by this route in reverse.

2. B3270 Lower Earley Way North between its junctions with Mill Lane and Hatch Farm Way The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via B3270 Lower Earley Way , B3270 Lower Earley Way West, A327 Shinfield Road, B3350 Elm Road, B3350 Wilderness Road, A329 Wokingham Road and A329 Reading Road or by this route in reverse.

Works requiring these restrictions will take place between 8th January and 9th January 2022.

The reason for these prohibitions is to allow Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks contractors to undertake installation, removal and replacement of overhead lines and associated work in safety.

Access for residents and businesses within the boundaries of these restrictions will be maintained at all times.

The restriction imposed by the Order shall only apply during those periods when traffic signs complying with the Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions 2016 are lawfully displayed.

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

The restrictions contained in the Order shall come into operation on the 8th January 2022 and shall continue in force for a period not exceeding 18 months or until the works have been completed, whichever is the earlier.

Dated: 30th December 2021 Mark Cupit Assistant Director – Delivery and Infrastructure Wokingham Borough Council Civic Offices Shute End Wokingham Berkshire RG40 1WL

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Scarletts Lane, Hare Hatch between its junctions with Milley Lane and A4 Bath Road.

The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via Milley Lane and A4 Bath Road, or by this route in reverse.

Works requiring this restriction will take place between 17th January 2022 and 18th January 2022.

The reason for these prohibitions is to allow Thames Water contractors to undertake Sewer Cleaning works in safety.

Access for residents and businesses within the boundaries of these restrictions will be maintained at all times.

The restriction imposed by the Order shall only apply during those periods when traffic signs complying with the Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions 2016 are lawfully displayed.

The restrictions contained in the Order shall come into operation on the 17th January 2022 and shall continue in force for a period not exceeding 18 months or until the works have been completed, whichever is the earlier.

Dated: 30th December 2021 Mark Cupit Assistant Director – Delivery and Infrastructure Wokingham Borough Council Civic Offices Shute End Wokingham Berkshire RG40 1WL

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WOKINGHAM SPORT TEAM WISH YOU A SAFE NEW YEAR RAMS REFLECT ON MIXED START

ROYALS REVIEW: 2021 IN FOCUS

SUMAS LOSE AT ASCOT

KINGS WIN .. BUT TIES HIT BY COVID

BOARS CONTINUE FINE FORM

EVERSLEY STRIKE FIVE IN AWAY WIN

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today EVERSLEY & CALIFORNIA ensured they ended the calendar year with a bang after they struck five past AFC Aldermaston.

The Boars have been in fine form throughout the last few months and continued their free scoring approach with a convincing away display at Aldermaston.

They made the perfect start and found the net within the

opening 20 seconds of the contest through Ross McKernan who latched onto Brad Brown’s rebounded shot.

Harinder Hunjan played provider on two occasions in the next two Eversley goals, with Jamie Griggs and Brown getting themselves on the scoresheet to give their side a three goal lead going into the break.

An audacious lob from Reece Buckett and a thumping 30-yard drive from Lewis Wall saw Eversley

cap off a magnificent performance with two more goals in the secondhalf to wrap up the three points and earn a clean sheet.

Eversley & California manager Matty Angell said: “Such a great way to end the year with a great performance in difficult conditions, this group gets better each week and really proud of everyone involved at Eversley & California FC. Come such a long way in the last 12 months. Now prepare for the second half of the season.”

The Boars are in a healthy position in the Combined Counties Division One table in fourth after their first 22 matches.

They have amassed 42 points with 13 wins, three draws and six losses which puts them in a strong position to challenge for promotion in the latter half of the campaign.

They find themselves just four points behind league leaders Hilltop, but the top side have five games in hand to play.

n More football pages 26-27

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KINGS third team returned to winning ways just before Christmas after a hard-fought seven-point win over Brixton Ballers in Division Three South.

The game saw JJ Francis and Jamie Bedford scoring their first National League Baskets for the Kings.

The result leaves the Kings 3s on top of the Division Three South table over the festive period.

In the Premier Division game, King’s first team faced Coventry’s CWBA, the game was fast and furious with end-to-end action throughout with CWBA taking the win, 74-42.

Reece Barker was Kings top scorer with 16 points and also led total rebounds with six and his Brother Liam led assists with five.

The Division 2 South game of Kings seconds against Warwickshire Bears had to be postponed due to Covid after positive tests were recorded from members of the Warwickshire club.

Up next for the Kings First Team will be Tee Valley Mohawks currently scheduled for Saturday, February 19.

Published by The Wokingham Paper Ltd, Crown House, 231 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS. Printed at Reach Watford © The Wokingham Paper Ltd, 2021

CHRISTMAS CRACKER!

Joe Humphreys lines up the shot in the Division 3 South game against Ballers