Wokingham Today, July 21, 2022

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THE VOICE OF THE BOROUGH

Thursday, July 21, 2022

No. 373 90p

Rail strikes set to cause disruption

By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokingham.today

WARM WOKINGHAM WELCOME P3

COMMUTERS are being warned of severe disruption when railway staff go on strikes later this month.

The RMT national walk-out is to take place on Wednesday, July 27, and there will be additional delays the following day as services will start late and on a reduced service basis.

Members of ASLEF will strike on Saturday, July 30, affecting Great Western Railway services.

The RMT said that Network Rail offered its workers a 4% pay rise, with a possible 4% in the second year, on the condition that rail workers accepted all terms and conditions.

However, the union said that it has yet receive a pay offer or guarantees over job losses.

Its union boss Mick Lynch said: “Strike action is the only course open to us to make both the rail industry and government understand that this dispute will continue for as long as it takes, until we get a negotiated settlement.”

Andrew Haines, Network Rail chief executive, described the strikes as “incredibly frustrating” He added:”Even more so that they haven’t even put what was a fair and affordable two-year pay offer to their members.”

South Western Railway, which runs services from Reading to Waterloo, said it is working with Network Rail to produce an amended timetable.

The firm’s managing director Claire Mann said: “We expect we’ll have no choice but to close significant parts of our network on Wednesday, July 27, with severe disruption expected on the following day.

“That’s why we’re urging customers to begin making alternative arrangements”.

Great Western Railway, which runs services from Reading to London Paddington, will also be affected.

Mick Whelan, general secretary of ASLEF, said the strikes are the result of “a failure of negotiation”.

n For more information visit: Southwesternrailway.com/industrialaction or gwr.com/strike

ANGER OVER PARK MAINTENANCE P7

TO THE NINES: Pupils dress to impress at awards • p33

FEARS FOOD BAG AXE WILL HIT RECYCLING

Delivery of council’s caddy liners dropped to save cash

EXCLUSIVE

By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokingham.today A DECISION to axe plastic bags to line food waste caddies has been met with dismay by residents and opposition councillors.

Last week, Wokingham Borough Council announced that it will no longer supply rolls of single-use plastic sacks, leading to fears that it will cause a drop in food waste recycling.

The doorstep collection scheme was introduced in 2020 to boost recycling rates – and save money.

Fiugures seen by Wokingham Today suggests it costs just £20 per tonne to process food waste compared to £120 per tonne for blue bag waste, while the cost to the council to provide bags is £120,000, although a inflationary rise would need to be added to this.

This is a rise from £75,000 last year. n Continued on page 11

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4 | NEWS

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Police solve fewer than one in 10 burglaries EXCLUSIVE

By DANIEL BLACKHAM dblackham@wokingham.today LESS than one in 10 burglaries in Wokingham result in a prosecution, with some areas seeing no suspects charged at all.

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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.

WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, July 21, 2022

According to an investigation by the Telegraph, 94.2% of burglaries in Wokingham were left unsolved between May 2019 and April 2022.

During this three year period, 1,116 out of 1,185, remain unsolved.

The data, released by Police UK, does not include cases where investigations are on-going, no update is supplied or a location is not provided.

Unsolved crimes are any crime where an individual was not charged or given an out-of-court sanction.

The worst area in Wokingham, Wokingham East, went three years

without any of its 53 burglaries being solved.

Lower Earley South also had 13 cases closed without a conviction.

Sonning and Woodley North had the best resolution rate with 10.2% burglaries leading to a conviction.

The data also shows that 95 out of 114 robberies in Wokingham remain unsolved, representing 83.3% of the total reported.

Police in Wokingham have also failed to solve 95.4% of personal thefts, such as pickpocketing, and 98.2% of bicycle thefts in the town.

A spokesperson for Thames Valley Police said: “We will always seek to bring offenders to justice for any crime reported, where we can and where there are lines of enquiry we will investigate thoroughly.

“On occasions, however, cases remain unsolved. This can be for a number of reasons, such as no suspect being able to be identified,

Berkeley Foundation teams up with Berkshire Youth in £30k partnership THE BERKELEY Foundation has partnered with Berkshire Youth, including a £30,000 grant offer.

Part of the Berkeley Group of housing developers, the foundation has partnered with Berkshire Youth as part of The Resilience Fund, designed to help charity organisations stay secure after the pandemic.

The partnership will see Berkshire Youth granted £30,000 over two years to help with its charity and support work.

It is one of 10 partnerships created in the first year of the scheme, which is expected to invest £900,000 among up to 30 organisations over the next three years.

Berkshire Youth supports more than 12,000 young people every

year as they transition from childhood to adulthood.

“The award of a grant from the Berkeley Foundation has been the boost we all needed at Berkshire Youth,” spokesperson said.

“After 85 years of supporting the young people of Berkshire we are delighted to be provided with the support needed to unlock our organisational resilience.

“The Covid epidemic has demonstrated the pressure young people have been under, and we need to ensure that our youth work offer is around for many more years.

“With the support of the Berkeley Foundation we can make sure this can really happen.”

REVEALED: Official stats from Police UK show a number of burglaries and robberies are left unsolved Picture: Andrew Martin/aitoff via Pixabay or insufficient evidence is available to prosecute a suspect.

“However, investigations that are filed, are done so pending any further information coming to light, and can be reviewed should any new evidence or information become apparent.”

Of more than 32,000 neighbourhoods analysed by the Telegraph in England and Wales, 46% of them had all their burglary cases in the past three years closed with no suspect charged by police.

Crimes in rural areas were more likely to remain unsolved.

Of the 6,361 rural neighbourhoods with burglaries, 61%, 3,874, had none solved.

That compared with 41% in rural areas.

The worst area in England and Wales, Parson Cross in Sheffield, went three years without any of its 104 burglaries being solved.

New Arley and Fillongley, in Warwickshire, also had 99 cases closed without a suspect.

For anyone who has been a victim of burglary, robbery, personal theft or bicycle theft, Thames Valley Police encourages them to report it by calling 101, making a report online or, if it is an emergency, calling 999.

There is also a range of advice to help protect residents and their homes from crime.

n For more information, visit: thamesvalley.police.uk/cp/crimeprevention/

Wellington Country Park to hold sporting weekend A CELEBRATION of the world of sport will be held in Riseley later this month.

Wellington Country Park will be holding a weekend of events aimed at letting visitors try different activities.

Reading FC will be offering a penalty shoot out in a speed cage.

Coaches will be on hand to talk tactics, and football.

Riseley Tennis Club will offer taster sessions on the Wellington Park centre court, letting anyone inspired by Wimbledon have a go.

And skateboarding experts Tic

Tac Skate School will erect some mini-skate ramps in the centre of the park.

Both children and adults can take part in the activities.

And there will be bouncy castles for all ages, including special activities for under fives.

The event runs from 10am to 4pm over the weekend of July 23 and 24.

Entry is included in the park’s general admission fee. n For more details, log on to: wellingtoncountrypark.co.uk

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Thursday, July 21, 2022 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

Multi-way lights on Shinfield Road

Alexander Savvides (4) showcasing his frisbee skills

GATHERING: The Mayor and the Deputy Mayor visit the Ukrainian stand. Picture: Steve Smyth

Wokingham’s warm welcome WOKINGHAM welcomed its latest residents in a fun-filled event at Elms Field on Saturday, July 16.

The event, entitled ‘Wokingham Borough Welcomes New Arrivals’, offered the community a chance to meet families from Hong Kong, Afghanistan, Syria and Ukraine.

More than 400 refugees have moved to the borough as part of the government’s Homes for Ukraine scheme.

The Mayor of Wokingham, Cllr Caroline Smith, partook in the festivities, and said: “I thoroughly enjoyed the afternoon and the

people who attended seemed to have a great time too.

“It was very well received by everyone. My husband and grandchildren came along and they had a lovely time.

The free event saw new and old members of the community bond over fun, family-friendly activities and meals from the various food stalls.

There were also information stalls run by council departments, charities and other community sector partners.

Visitors received support and services, with families hosting

n For more information, visit: www.wokingham.gov.uk

refugees also being offered guidance.

Cllr Smith said: “We need to advertise the services available and get together, that’s really important, just to get people talking.”

The event took place in warm conditions as visitors were given an insight into the British summer. Both children and dogs enjoyed the refuge of a paddling pool.

The mayor joked: “Looking back now, seeing how hot it is today [Tuesday], I think it was just about OK on the weekend.”

Earley Green Fair to return in August Joshua Gomez (7) trying boxing on the BXGFIT stand, helped by Tom Wilkinson. Picture: Steve Smyth

Jael (2) with Kitty and William Ho, new arrivals from Hong Kong.

Picture: Steve Smyth

Potential fly-tippers caught in the act Katie Herderova (9) having fun on the Places Leisure Stand

TWO potential fly-tippers have been stopped from dumping a large amount of clothing in Arborfield.

The men were spotted on Sindlesham Road one afternoon in June and questioned by Wokingham Borough Council’s new anti-social behaviour team which launched in April,.

One of the council’s anti-social behaviour officers noticed a van parked on the side of the road where two men appeared to be sorting through piles of clothing on to the path.

The officer approached the men, turned on a camera and read them the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 (PACE) caution.

Once questioned, the men claimed they were sorting through the items and were planning on taking them to a waste collection service.

The officer expressed disbelief in their story and stated the side of a busy road was not the correct place for this activity.

The men were asked to show their waste carriers licence, which they did, before loading the clothes back into their van.

After making note of their company name, licence number and van details, the officer let the men continue their journey.

Cllr Ian Shenton, executive member for environment, sport and leisure, said: “This is a great result for the council, our residents and the borough. We believe that these two individuals were going to commit a fly-tipping offence and thanks to our proactive anti-social behaviour officer, they were stopped in their tracks.” n To check if a waste carrier is licenced, visit: environment.data.gov.uk, or log on to: https:// environment.data.gov.uk/public-register/view/ search-waste-carriers-brokers

WOKINGHAM motorists may experience extended journey times as Wokingham Borough Council has announced the instalment of multi-way lights on Shinfield Road.

The lights will be in place between Halls Lane and Ducketts Mead from Thursday, July 21, to Wednesday, August 31.

This will allow City Fibre to carry out fibre optic cable installation works. This will eventually lead to ultrafast broadband speeds of up to 1Gbps.

The affected section of Shinfield Road includes Crosfields School and the European Centre for MediumRange Weather Forecasts.

Sunday 14th August from 2pm

‘’G and Teatime’’

- Gin Tasting and Afternoon Tea Combine two quintessentially British classics; Gin and Afternoon Tea! This bespoke series of tasting is aimed at the real Gin enthusiast and afternoon tea lovers. Our guest speaker will guide you through two very different Altitude - French Alpine Gins from the mountains in a fun and didactic way.

At the end, pick up your favourite G&T and enjoy traditional afternoon tea, this is the perfect experience for gin enthusiasts.

Gin Selection Alpine Dry Alpine Strawberry Pink Welcome Cocktail Gin Tasting Afternoon Tea Gin and Tonic Guest Speaker

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THE EARLEY Green Fair is returning for the first time since the pandemic.

The event celebrates ethical living, and this year has a theme of the Platinum Jubilee.

Stalls will come from a range of local organisations, small businesses and artisanal crafts, including plants and horticulture, butterfly conservation, hedgehog rescue, homemade jewellery, craft stalls, books, cakes and more.

The event takes place at the Beech Lane end of Maiden Erlegh Nature Reserve, between 10am and 3pm, on Saturday, August 6.

Entry is free.

6 | NEWS

To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today UNITED: Delegates from 15 schools come together and discuss ideas on climate change Picture: Wokingham Borough Council

Teachers unite to discuss climate change

TEACHERS from across Wokingham borough came together earlier this month to discuss climate change.

The first Climate Teachers Summit, hosted by Wokingham Borough Council, was held at Holme Grange School on Friday, July 8.

Delegates from 15 schools shared their own ideas, worked together to look at how climate can be brought into the wider curriculum and got information from a range of local services.

Exhibits were displayed by The Tree Project, Freely Fruity, Public Health, the council’s UNICEF UK child friendly communities programme and My Journey Wokingham, who brought along their smoothie bike.

Cllr Sarah Kerr, executive member for climate emergency and resident services, opened the event.

“We know that the climate emergency affects everybody and that we have a collective responsibility to make changes, both big and small, for the sake of our future,” said Cllr Kerr.

“Working with teachers is an effective and crucial way to make sure that our schools are working to reduce their own carbon footprint.”

Attendees brainstormed the government’s new strategy for sustainability and climate change in education and discussed how it can present opportunities to embed the subjects into learning.

Ideas generated included teaching children and parents

repair skills, reducing food waste, facilitating distribution of pre-loved uniforms and using sustainable suppliers.

The learning is set to continue, with a newly created Climate Teachers Forum, facilitated by the council open to all schools in the borough.

One of the borough’s schools has already been recognised for its efforts on climate change.

Holme Grange School is the first in the world to be awarded gold for their teaching on environmental issues by eduCCate Global, an organisation that trains and supports teachers and schools to embed climate education.

The school was awarded this after introducing a whole school policy and working with other schools in the area.

They also developed a sustainability curriculum, which all Year 9 students take part in, with topics including climate literacy, fast fashion, sustainable cooking and climate science.

Another school proactively encouraging change is Shinfield St Mary’s Primary School.

Matt Knight, sustainability and ecology lead at the school, said it has “transformed” its outside space into an eco-space.

This includes fruit tree nursery to distribute to other schools, habitats for wildlife, various beds to grow fruit and vegetables and sustainable structures such as a biodome.

WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, July 21, 2022

Residents near A4 call on police to catch ‘dangerous’ speeding motorists EXCLUSIVE

BY DANIEL BLACKHAM dblackham@wokingham.today RESIDENTS along the A4 have accused Thames Valley Police of “neglecting their duty” to catch speeding drivers.

People living on or near the A4 Bath Road in Hare Hatch and Kiln Green are now calling for more to be done to reduce speeding drivers.

Residents were disappointed to discover the speed camera site on the road, at Sonning, hadn’t reported a motoring offence in 2020 (the most recent data available).

Other nearby sites at London Road, Twyford and Butts Hill Road, Woodley were stopped earlier as they recorded no offences in 2019.

A spokesperson for Thames Valley Police has now confirmed that enforcement duties have resumed at the Sonning monitoring site following resolution of “signage issues”, but remain suspended at the Twyford site due to “operational reasons”.

The spokesperson added: “Thames Valley Police operates an evidence and risk based assessment of all potential enforcement sites, a full assessment is made and if there is evidence of speed and a risk to road users then camera enforcement will be considered as a potential solution, there are a number of considerations and checks made before deploying cameras.”

“This would be laughable if lives were not in danger,” said Mr Chapman. “The traffic police haven’t been seen around here for years and drivers have

DISAPPOINTED: A4 Residents were frustrated after discovering speed camera sites hadn’t reported any offences learned that they can speed with impunity, hence the risk to pedestrians, cyclists and especially schoolchildren and the elderly.”

According to government data, more than 23,000 vehicles pass through Hare Hatch on the A4 and residents believe most drivers exceed the 40mph speed limit.

“The illuminated speed limit sign here flashes a warning to seven out of every 10 drivers, based on my observations,” said Karen Robinson, who lives on the A4 near Dobbies garden centre.

“And most of them don’t slow down because they know their speeds aren’t being recorded.

“How can we allow children to walk or cycle to school when hundreds of motorists are breaking the speed limit every hour?”

The government’s official

2021 average speed estimate for the A4 at Hare Hatch is 36.74mph.

This data includes traffic jams and slow-moving vehicles which are counted if their speed is above 5mph.

“This isn’t real-world data,” said Mr Chapman.

“What matters is the speed of free-flowing traffic, the majority of which appears to be exceeding the speed limit.

“If the police are relying on this A4 speed data from sat navs and mobile phones to justify their two-year withdrawal from enforcement duties in the area, they are fooling themselves and condemning walkers to a risky game of Russian roulette as there are no pedestrian crossings on this stretch.”

Sections of the A4, between Tag Lane and Scarletts Lane,

were due to be resurfaced last month and residents fear the new road will encourage higher speeds.

But according to Roger Prew, who lives on the Bath Road at Kiln Green, things can’t get any worse on Sunday mornings when he walks his dogs.

“I’m certain that every single vehicle is exceeding the speed limit,” he said, “and that won’t change until there’s a speed camera here – which would pay for itself in no time.”

Mr Chapman feels residents are being left to “fend for themselves”.

“If the police want to desert their traffic monitoring posts they must first install fixed speed cameras in busy communities like Hare Hatch and Kiln Green,” said Mr Chapman, “but they show no sign of doing so.”

DELAYED: Some services have been cancelled due to a lack of drivers following a resurgence in covid cases.

Picture: Steve Smyth

Covid impacts on Reading Buses THE RESURGENCE of covid is having a knock-on effect across Reading – some bus services have been cancelled due to a lack of drivers.

In recent days, Reading Buses have been posting updates on its social media pages for passengers The messages are all variations on the same theme: Service X is cancelled due to operational issues. We apologise for any inconvenience.

A spokesperson for the company, which operates routes across the town, said: “While we are seeing a short term impact on our driver availability due to a recent spike in covid cases, we are doing everything we can to maintain our services with minimal disruption to our customers.

“To further aid this, we will soon be launching our new people-focused recruitment campaign, to inspire people to consider a change in career.”

Thursday, July 21, 2022 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

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Road to close for Disgruntled residents continue three weeks battle for playground maintenance FRUSTRATED: Maintenance of a play area in Arborfield Green has not been completed despite being raised by residents.jpg

By DANIEL BLACKHAM dblackham@wokingham.today

DISGRUNTLED residents in Arborfield are still waiting for maintenance to be carried out by a developer.

Crest Nicholson, the developer behind the new homes in Arborfield Green, is responsible for maintaining the site and had previously contracted Pinnacle to service the area.

In May, Wokingham.Today reported a number of routine maintenance tasks had not been carried out.

Residents have continued to raise the issues but so far the only work undertaken has been grass cutting.

Cllr Rebecca Margetts, Conservative councillor for Finchampstead South, has been working with residents to get the problems resolved with a focus on the play area at Nightingale Fields.

She said: “Still, we are battling to achieve the most basic of maintenance and health and safety.

“The park is completely neglected, and the pictures really say it all.

“I do not see why residents are ignored and I have to ask to get the grass cut and play equipment maintained.

WOKINGHAM motorists may be required to reroute their journeys in the coming weeks due to planned works.

School Road, Barkham, will be closed at two points from Monday, July 25, to Friday, August 19, between Wood Lane and Langley Common Road, and between Eversley Road and Wood Lane.

A third closure will see Eversley Road closed between School Road and Langley Common Road from 9.30am to 4pm on Monday, July 25 and Tuesday, July 26.

This will allow the council to carry out resurfacing works. n For more information, visit: www.wokingham.gov.uk

Coffee morning “Surely there should be routine maintenance and the park should be a priority with young children using it.”

Cllr Margetts said residents have “given up” chasing for the maintenance to be carried out, despite still being charged for the service.

She has also reached out to James Sunderland, MP for Bracknell, and Sir John Redwood, MP for Wokingham, who has written to Crest Nicholson about the issues.

A spokesperson for Crest Nicholson said the situation is being monitored and work is underway.

They added: “We are pleased to inform residents at Arborfield Green that preliminary maintenance works have begun with a team currently on site.

“Following these initial works, routine maintenance will be undertaken throughout the growing season.”

According to the Royal Society for the Prevention of

Accidents (RoSPA), “high quality inspection and maintenance programmes are essential if safe opportunities for children to play creatively are to be preserved”.

Although there is no legal responsibility for the maintenance to be carried out, procedures are recommended by the Department for National Heritage and the Welsh Office, the British Standards Institute, the Health and Safety Executive and many insurers.

RoSPA also insists that any inspections should cover the entire site, not just equipment.

This includes monitoring fences, pathways and seats as well as surrounding areas.

RoSPA believe routine inspections, operational inspections and annual inspections should be used in collaboration with a maintenance programme.

This is to ensure that all safety concerns are addressed.

DEPRESSION Xpression, holding its regular coffee morning at the Biscuit Factory on Friday, July 22.

Depression Xpression is a mental health peer support network which helps those with anxiety, depression, or who struggle with isolation in Reading and Wokingham.

The group meets informally at the Biscuit Factory every Friday, with no need to book an appointment.

The informal coffee meeting takes place every Friday, from 11am-12.30pm. Reusable coffee cups are welcome.

“Hi, I’m Neil and I created Steady Consulting with one clear purpose in mind: to help others achieve more.

Our consulting services are designed to provide expert guidance and support, to small and medium sized businesses. We'd love to help you.”

Neil Stead, Founder & Managing Consultant

HOW CAN WE HELP YOU? VISIT: Theresa May visited Yeldall Manor to learn more about its work during and after covid lockdowns Picture: © Dee Tee Photography

MP Theresa May visits Yeldall Manor MAIDENHEAD MP Theresa May visited a Hare Hatch-based addiction therapy centre to learn more about its work.

She had been due to visit Yeldall Manor in March 2020, but the first covid lockdown prevented her from doing so.

During her visit, she received updates on how the charity had coped, its fundraising and how residents have fared.

The centre helps men who have problems with drugs or alcohol to conquer their addictions and find a new way of life.

Mrs May met former resident Dave who is now a professional photographer, visited Yeldall’s prayer garden, and chatted with Sacha, another former resident who was instrumental in creating the space in a disused corner of the estate.

After the visit, Mrs May said: “I was pleased to be able to visit Yeldall Manor to discuss the excellent work they do in supporting people who have been affected by addiction.

“It was particularly insightful to hear about how the Yeldall Manor team continued to deliver vital support to their clients throughout the challenging pandemic years.”

Picture: Dee Tee Photography

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8 | NEWS

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Fire cadets’ work recognised at graduation event

By Ji-Min Lee jlee@wokingham.today BERKSHIRE fire cadets showcased their skills at a graduation ceremony at Whitley Wood Fire Station.

On Thursday, July 7, cohorts from Crowthorne, Maidenhead, Newbury and Whitley Wood fire stations were celebrated.

The initiative, which is run by Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service, helps those aged between 12 and 16 experience what being a firefighter involves.

Wayne Bowcock, chief fire officer, said: “It was an absolute pleasure to attend the Fire Cadets Graduation to celebrate and recognise the hard work of the Fire Cadets and the teams

who make it a success every year.

“Congratulations to every Fire Cadet for completing the course and the four Cadet of the Year award winners – Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service, your families and loved ones are all extremely proud of you.”

During the ceremony, each unit demonstrated the skills they had learnt by performing their own graduation drills.

Scenarios included water safety rescues and staged domestic fires.

The course helps young people develop life skills such as self-reliance, leadership and decision-making, through fire and rescue service activities.

Each programme runs for a full academic year during term time.

The vice-chair of Royal Berkshire Fire Authority, Cllr Rachelle Shepherd-DuBey was in attendance.

Of the event, she said: “The Fire Cadets initiative not only delivers on Royal Berkshire Fire Authority’s commitment to contributing to a broader safety, health and wellbeing agenda, but it also equips young people with valuable interpersonal skills to increase their selfconfidence.

“This year’s Fire Cadets have demonstrated their work ethic and dedication and should be proud of their achievements.

“Congratulations to all.”

WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, July 21, 2022

WAIT FOR IT: Bailey Dean (6) waits in anticipation at the bat a rat stall Pictures: Steve Smyth

School’s fare is a feast of delights A SHINFIELD primary school welcomed the community to its summer fayre on Saturday, July 9.

Alder Grove’s event delighted visitors, young and old, with many of its students revelling in all their school had to offer.

There was something for everyone, with children treated to traditional fayre games, a bouncy castle, face painting and an entertainment stage.

“It was lovely for us as a new school to hold our first Summer Fayre this year, after last year’s was postponed to the Autumn Term due to Covid-19 restrictions,” a spokesperson from the school said.

“It was a beautiful summer’s day and we are very grateful that so many people from our school and local community came and supported the event.”

“Our Parents/Carers and Staff Association (PCSA) did an incredible job organising a fun-filled day.”

Youngsters particularly enjoyed the splat the rat and coconut shy, with winners taking home prizes.

Adults were captivated by the various food and produce stalls, shopping opportunities and raffle.

The event raised over £4,000 for the school.

Despite being a relatively new addition to Shinfield, the school has already made a mark on the community, welcoming its second Year 3 class in addition to its inaugural cohort.

The school is holding open days for prospective Year 3 students starting in September 2023 throughout November, December and January.

Ryan Jowshan (6) tries his luck at the coconut shy WINNER: Henry Maw (5) takes home three coconuts

One in eight are NEETs NEW research has revealed that one-in-eight disadvantaged young people in the South East who have been in care or on free school meals are not in education, employment or on an apprenticeship compared with one in 27 (96%) of their better off peers.

Nationally, the number of 16-year-olds who are classified as NEET (Not in Education, Employment or Training) is at its highest levels since 2012.

As a result, social justice charity Nacro wants to see an extension to the Pupil Premium funding for disadvantaged students to 18, it currently ends at 16.

Elise Temple, director of

education and skills, Nacro, said: “The disadvantage gap remains stubbornly wide.

“Despite Government promises to level up education and help disadvantaged young people, yesterday’s statistics show more needs to be done.

“We must introduce a Pupil Premium Plus, giving schools and colleges specific funding for each disadvantaged young person. This would enable them to tailor help to the pupil’s needs, be it tutoring, holistic help, or extra support.

“This is the only way we can truly level the playing field for all pupils and ensure that no young person is left behind.”

Thursday, July 21, 2022 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, July 21, 2022

Lord Campbell warns of difficult times ahead for local authorities Fight for change says youth MP

By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokingham.today

AS WOKINGHAM Liberal Democrats continue their preparations for the THE new youth MP for Wokingham forthcoming general election has said she will “fight for the change – expected in 2024 – another party grandee paid a visit to we want to see” following her the borough to endorse their election earlier this month. candidate.

Holly Mackinnon, a Year 10 student at The Holt School, will Council leader Cllr Clive Jones represent the borough’s children will contest the Wokingham and young people in the UK Youth parliamentary seat when the Parliament, run by the British time comes. It is 18th on its list Youth Council. of target seats, with the party In her manifesto, hoping to build on their 2019 campaign, which saw them Ms Mackinnon outlined plans to lobby for the school curriculum come within 7,383 votes of unseating Sir John Redwood. to re-imagine “Britishness” from That might seem like a an ethnically diverse and antimountain to climb, but recent racist perspective. byelections and turmoil in She is also calling for more anti-hate measures, further action the national Conservative against climate change and wants party caused by Boris Johnson to ensure student representation suggest to the party’s activists across the borough. that this is within the realm of Ms Mackinnon said: “At the possibility. moment being a young person in Among them is Lord Menzies the UK is exasperating. It is easy Campbell, a former leader of the to feel helpless as our planet is party and also the man who, destroyed and inequality and between 1967 and 1974, held insecurity grows. the British record for the 100m “Becoming youth MP is a way sprint. for me to represent young people He is keen to see a change in in the borough and fight for change Wokingham, not least because we want to see. of the situation the country is in “I aim to make young people in due to the cost of living crisis.

Wokingham feel that their voices His view is influenced by the matter and their views are heard, current leadership election in by both decision-makers and the Conservative party. myself.”

Pointing out that candidates Ms Mackinnon will be are promising tax cuts, but that supported by deputy youth MP, could bring more problems.

Alassane Wone, a Year 10 student “The argument against a from The Forest School. reduction of taxation at this stage is we’re already almost n For more, email: youthvoice@ in double digit inflation. If you wokinghamborough.gov.uk

VISIT: Lord Campbell with council leader Cllr Clive Jones Picture: Phil Creighton reduce taxation, and there’s more consumption, there is every reason to accept that inflation will increase,” he said.

“Those of us who remember the 1970s remember when inflation was 20%. We remember that if you died, you couldn’t be buried because people went on strike, because they wanted wage increases which simply weren’t available.

“I don’t want to be apocalyptic about it, but we are on the edge of what could be a very, very difficult period in the life and history of this country.”

He urged the Conservative leadership candidates to look at some of the judgments of economists who are not driven by politics before promising tax cuts in their campaigns.

“They are driven by reality, see what they have to about any notion that we can embark

upon an extraordinarily generous reduction in the level of taxation,” he said.

This matters in Wokingham as, along with other local authorities, they have seen support grants from the government dwindle, while demand on social care services for both adults and children increase dramatically.

What does Lord Campbell think central government can do to help resolve the funding conundrum?

“I wish I could say to Clive Jones that it’s all going to be sweetness and light, but it’s not,” he warned. “There will be difficult decisions to be made.

“It’s not improbable to suggest that maybe the Conservatives here are rather pleased not to have had to make these decisions. But I’m pretty certain that Clive and his

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colleagues will make sure that decisions are made and, so far as they are capable of, in the best interests of the citizens of this part of the world.

“It’s not going to be a walk in the park, but they’ve started well.”

He cites buses, where the new Lib Dem-run council have worked to maintain some of the routes.

“Removal (of services) was obviously going to cause a fair amount of dislocation and hardship for people,” he said.

The last time Lord Campbell was interviewed by Wokingham Today, Lindsay Ferris was the group’s leader and the idea that the party would be in control of the borough council, let alone be going into a general election campaign to win, seemed fanciful.

How does it feel to see the party’s change in fortunes?

“It’s a great achievement,” he said. “But it’s also not a walk in the park and (running the council) will be a real test of Clive and his colleagues. I’m confident they will fulfil their responsibilities.

“We’ve just won three byelections on the trot. If you were a betting man and went to the bookie and said I want to gamble on these seats you would have got a good price and you could have probably retired.”

Lord Campbell understands the type of contest that Cllr Jones will be undertaking in the general election.

“In north east Fife, I was standing in a very traditional sort of Tory seat,” he recalls.

“What we did was fought every opportunity at local government, and we nearly beat them, before in a byelection we got within 30 votes.

“We went after them (the Conservatives) until we controlled the council.

“And if you control the council, and you show that you’re responsible, that you understand the anxieties of the public in relation to the local authority’s obligation, then it’s a much easier job to persuade them that someone from the same party can go to Westminster, with the same kind of philosophy behind what has already been demonstrated.”

Lord Campbell said he won with a small majority that increased with each subsequent election.

“The first defence is always the most difficult, because the people that have been beaten still think it was wholly unexpected and they can get it back again,” he recalls. “I had a pretty tough time, but we held on and after that it was safe, although we never regarded it as that.

“There was never any sort of complacency.”

Lord Campbell praised the current Lib Dem leader, Sir Ed Davey for his handling of the byelections, saying he had been very professional.

“I don’t think this comes as any great revelation, but there will be some consideration targeting when the time comes and we can pull out all the stops. And Wokingham is one of those,” he said.

But in 2019, the Lib Dems threw the kitchen sink at Wokingham and still came short. Surely this will always be a Conservative hold?

“The last election was always going to be a difficult one for us, and there have been difficult elections since, following the coaliation. But we’re out from under that.”

He said that while canvassing in Chesham and Amersham, they were knocking on doors of “what looks like a pretty expensive housing estate”.

“I was astonished: people would say they never vote Liberal Democrat, but they will this time. That’s been the experience of everyone in the byelections.

“We don’t take it for granted though. We fought those campaigns really hard and put a lot of people in there on the last Sunday, from all over the country, to do leaflets, knock on doors, do telephones, that kind of thing.

“One of the great things is that success brings people back.

People are excited by success.”

So what of Cllr Jones trying to open a door that has been closed ever since the Wokingham parliamentary seat was created. What advice would Sir Campbell give me?

“He has a dual mandate and a dual obligation,” he said of the new role of council leader fused with national candidate. “That means he is carrying a very substantial responsibility.

“He’s shown in his own life, his commercial life, that he’s well able to carry that responsibility.

“But in his commitment to the Liberal Democratic cause, there is a determination to go on.

“There must be times when he’s thought he would never get rid of Redwood, and he could instead put more time in with his family, but he’s stuck at it.

You can’t ask for more than that.”

Then, he turns to Cllr Jones sitting next to us and said: “Why am I here? The reason is that a friend of a mutual friend took me out to lunch back in 2014, and I’ve been coming over at least once a year ever since.

“I would not be investing in Clive if I did not think he was going to produce a return on my investment.”

The decision, will always remain in the hand of Wokingham’s electorate.

11

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Thursday, July 21, 2022 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

Fears food waste bin bag axe will reduce borough’s recycling rates

n From front page

Announcing the decision, Wokingham Borough Council’s executive member for environment, sport and leisure, Cllr Ian Shenton said: “The caddy liners the council has been supplying for the last two years are not good for the environment – they are non-biodegradable single-use plastic.

“At a time when we are encouraging all residents to decrease their use of single use plastics, it just doesn’t make sense for us to continue to supply food waste bags that are a single-use plastic.”

He added that the residents could use a compostable liner, newspaper or any soft plastic bag, such as a bread bag, cereal bags, or carrier bags to store food waste in.

Some stores sell paper bags designed to fit caddies, including these found in the Sainsbury’s store in Winnersh.

All the bags are disposed of as part of the process.

Residents commenting on social media had concerns that the move is a scheme to save money, rather than the planet that would prove to be a ‘false economy’, which would see people put food waste into dustbins and blue bags instead.

Others said the bags weren’t

LINER: Sainsbury’s has been stocking paper-based food waste bin liners Picture: Phil Creighton

the right size and had no tie handles.

The view was echoed by Cllr Norman Jorgensen, the shadow executive member for the environment and Conservative councillor for Maiden Erlegh.

He said that when the food waste collection was introduced in 2019, residents had always been encouraged to use other thin bags such as bread bags as an alternative in a bid to reduce the overall environmental impact.

The first step in the food waste processing is to strip out the bags used, regardless of type, to then be incinerated.

“The Liberal/Labour coalition now running Wokingham Borough Council has announced its decision to stop providing residents with the green bags

Your local in Winnersh

to line food waste caddies,” he said.

“Instead of removing recycling services, such as the provision of food waste bags, the Council should be aiming to increase the amount of food waste recycled reducing the amount discarded into the general waste blue bags.

“Experience has shown that when bags are not provided food recycling reduces.”

He added: “Even now around half of the Borough’s food waste is still discarded in the blue bags.

Transferring this into the food recycling would have considerable environmental benefits and also save on disposal costs thus saving us money as Council Tax payers.

“I fear that removing the supply of food waste bags will result in a decrease in the use of the food waste recycling and actually increase costs for the taxpayer.”

But council leader Cllr Clive Jones said, at the time of the decision to axe the green bags, that the cost of producing them would have an impact on other services the council provides.

“The previous administration did not budget for these caddy liners, so to supply them we would have to take the money from something else,” he said.

“In this perilous time when costs are rising across the board, it just doesn’t make sense for us to continue to supply these, particularly as they are bad for the environment.

“The council is working on a new waste collection strategy for when the current waste collection contract ends in 2026 and will be asking residents for their views on the options later this year.” n What do you think? Email your views to letters@wokingham. today

Shinfield tennis camps launch A SPORTS club is running summer camps to keep children active over the holidays.

Shinfield Tennis Club is set to hold three weeks of racquet-based games to help budding Andy Murrays and Emma Raducanus hone their skills.

Activities include fun technical drills, multisport exercises and tournaments.

The camp is open to children of all ages and abilities, with emphasis on having fun.

All coaches are LTA accredited, ensuring visitors are given appropriate support.

Morning and full day sessions are available, with no obligation to book full weeks.

Morning sessions run from 9.30am-1pm, whilst full days finish at 3pm, with weeks running from Monday to Thursday on the weeks starting Monday, July 25, Monday, August 8, and Monday, August 22.

Each morning session costs £25, with full day sessions priced at £35.

Early drop-off and late pickup are available for additional fees. Sibling discounts can also be redeemed. n For more information or to book places, visit: www.clubspark.lta.org.uk/ shinfieldtennisclub

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12 | NEWS

Spacephiller Phil Creighton

Cool it

A

MONG the many, many emails that came into our offices in the past week, there have been many salutary exchanges.

Usually, it’s a comment about the weather – we are Brits after all.

So many of these missives have been heatwave aware. Some are looking forward to bit of sunshine.

And who can blame them when us Brits have whole memes and jokes about British summertime lasting hours, rather than days, or us needing to turn the sun on and off again.

And long before the internet was even a twinkle in Tim Berners-Lee’s eyes, there were numerous jolly postcards showing torrential rain with the legend ‘summer in Cleethorpes’, or whichever town you happened to be vacationing in.

But there’s also those for whom the forecast is bad news.

I’m a veteran of several heatwaves.

The earliest was 1976. Someone on Twitter last week asked how we coped.

This was, for those who don’t remember, the summer when water was rationed and there were queues for the stopcocks in the streets.

So what was top of my list of memories? Not a lot to be honest. I was in the business of soiling nappies and drinking milk.

At a push, there might have been some rusks in there too, but to be fair, wearing underwear and sticking to cold, nourishing drinks has been this week’s modus operandi too.

The summer of 1989 was a scorcher, and the first time that many of us started to think seriously about global warming. It seems hard to believe now, but leading the way was the Daily Mail, who wanted us to go green and save the seals.

Summers since have seen the temperatures rachet up, as the University of Reading’s climate stripes diagram so aptly shows.

And winters, well, they’re just as record breakingly warm.

In fact, in the *cough* 26 years since I’ve been a resident of this neck of the woods, we’ve had cold spells, but not snow that has fallen for several days and then stuck around.

So my ambition of building an igloo remains on the ‘things to do before I shuffle off this mortal coil’ list.

Just thinking about those colder days makes me feel a little warm inside, rather than hot, bothered and flustered.

There’s something rather romantic about pacing through the fog of autumn, leaves swirling around, my infeasibly long scarf blowing around like a kite.

And then there’s a brisk stroll through crisp winter’s days, where the breath lingers in the air and the there’s a sharp pain when you breath in as it’s so cold. Preferably, as Shakin’ Stevens would sing, snow is falling, all around us.

The fact that the brisk stroll is then topped off with a warm hot chocolate by the fireplace is neither here nor there, as my stomach surely does not testify to.

All of which might give you some indication as to my lines in the email missives about this week’s heatwave.

When I had more hair, back in the full flush of youth – well, OK, back in the summer of 1976, it was auburn. Which is a notch away from ginger.

Which means that like a vampire, the slightest bit of sun and I turn to dust.

I’ve only got two skin tones: normal, and lobster pink, and the switch is faster than a Porsche can go 0-60mph.

Once the thermometer gets into double figures, it’s too hot for me.

Roll on autumn. As long as moths haven’t eaten my Dr Who scarf.

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Lottery’s £27.7m for South East good causes FOR some, it’s a Saturday night ritual that’s a load of balls, but for others the National Lottery really has made a difference.

New research conducted by Solitaired.com, a free, browserbased card game platform with more than 500 games available to play, shows that the act of picking some numbers and crossing fingers has helped raise nearly £28 million for good causes in the South East so far this year.

And since it was launched

by Noel Edmonds kicking some footballs into a goal back in 1994, the National Lottery has sponsored £3,319,173,736-worth of projects in the South East.

In our neck of the woods, Windsor and Maidenhead has come top with £147,776,166 of funding.

Reading is next, receiving £59,207,434 for a variety of projects.

Neighbouring West Berkshire received £36,020,936.

The National Lottery has sent £30,693,944 to Wokingham borough, while Basingstoke and Deane has received £24,788,485.

The borough that received the least amount of funding is Bracknell Forest, which has been awarded. £18,914,469 There are eight lottery-funded grants currently available for eligible entities in England, with a maximum funding amount of £100,000. Another seven grants are available nationwide for film –and

heritage-related projects, some of which have no maximum funding limit.

The funding goes to projects in education, environment, health, arts and sport.

Heritage is the sector in the South East that benefitted the most from National Lottery grants over the past 28 years. The latest official government data suggests that this area in the South East received a total of £874,110,189.

Sport is the second most lottery-funded sector, with £780,048,131-worth of sponsorship since 1994.

Arts causes follow at quite a distance behind, benefiting from £536,003,891 over the past three decades.

All these funds come from a proportion of ticket sales, as well as any unclaimed prizes within 180 days.

Rushmoor district, just down the road from Camberley, currently hosts one millionaire who has not yet claimed their prize. They have until Wednesday, October 26 to do so. Between October and December, there were £38m fewer claims than the previous quarter, which was added as returns to good causes.

A spokesperson for Solitaired. com said: “If you ever lost a winning lottery ticket, there is comfort in knowing that your prize would have gone to a good cause, quite possibly in your own town.”

Rare Marvel artwork to go under the hammer A COLLECTION of rare Marvel artwork is set to go under the hammer in Wokingham later this month.

Five limited edition boxed canvases and two folios of prints will be auctioned by Martin & Pole on Wednesday, July 27.

Among the canvases available at the auction house on Milton Road is The Amazing Spider-Man, Venom, Deadpool and Star Wars.

The unopened folios each contain six giclee prints featuring a mix of Marvel superheroes.

Phillip Knapper, senior valuer and auctioneer at Martin & Pole, expects them to attract a pretty penny.

He said: “We are hoping that, if they all sell, they will make about £40,000.

“I think that for the right collector they’ll look magnificent on the wall and what makes them more valuable is that they are framed which makes them more desirable.”

Mr Knapper has been in the industry for more than 35 years but insisted he has never sold anything like this collection before.

“When we go on a call we never know what we are going to look at but this is something I have never sold before.

“There is a big auction house in London who specialise in this but they only have one sale a year, in November.

“So he rang me and I went straight out, signed a contract and brought them back.”

The artwork has been stored by a local collector in a small warehouse

WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, July 21, 2022

Community quilt metal to help

By DANIEL BLACKHAM dblackham@rdg.today AN EMMBROOK community group has donated a number of handmade quilts to a Wokingham charity.

On Friday, July 15, the ladies from Emmbrook Quilters handed over 32 patchwork quilts to First Days.

The group have been working on the project for the last year and wanted to support a cause close to home.

Each quilt is made of mostly offcuts and waste materials sourced from fabric shops and takes many hours of cutting, sewing, patience and skill.

Simone McGee, the organiser of Emmbrook Quilters, said: “We have been together 17 years and we have made them every year for another charity, but this year we wanted to work on something more local and I got in touch with First Days around Christmas.

“I spoke to the ladies and said ‘girls i’ve met this lovely Wokingham charity’ and explained as much as I could and they all said ‘let’s do it’.”

The quilts will be used by First Days in their newborn baby packs which are given to families the charity supports.

A spokesperson for First Days said: “We’re very grateful for the beautiful quilts that Emmbrook Quilters have taken the time to make and donate to First Days.”

Founded in 2013, First Days offers a range of support to families in Wokingham and across Berkshire.

The charity has a team of staff and volunteers who have helped more than 10,000 children, and distributed more than 250 tonnes of donated goods.

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n For more information, visit: firstdays. net

Siren Craft Brew to launch four new beers at Time Hops UP FOR GRABS: One of the foilios for the last few years.

All items are numbered and come with certificates of authenticity from Marvel.

The value is significantly increased by the signature of revolutionary comic book writer Stan Lee. Stan Lee, who died in November 2018, was a crucial figure in the success of Marvel and created many mythic figures synonymous with the brand including Spider-Man, the X-Men, the Fantastic Four, Hulk, Iron Man and Thor.

The auction gets underway at 10am on Wednesday, July 27, and the Marvel items are the first lots on offer.

Bidding can be done in person or online.

n For more information visit: martinpole.co.uk/antique-auctions

A FINCHAMPSTEAD brewery is set to release four new beers at the Time Hops Beer Festival.

Siren Craft Brew are inviting guests to University of Reading’s 360 venue to try the beverages ahead of their public release.

The beers are a product of longterm collaboration with some of the world’s leading hop experts.

Siren Craft Brew’s events manager Matt Lincoln, said: “Time Hops refer to the four beers which we’ve created.

“This project got us thinking about where craft beer is. There was a real boom in the US in the 80s, and that’s kind of responsible for where we are now.”

Hops are the flowers of the plant Humulus lupulus, which serves as the bittering, flavouring and stabilising agent in beer.

The Time Hops are named Cascade, Centennial, Simcoe and Citra & Mosaic.

Siren Craft Brew worked with different industry-leading breweries to produce each of them to ensure they possessed their own, unique character.

The collection will take patrons for a trip down memory lane, showcasing some of the world’s favourite hops from different eras.

Being able to lean on the ‘Barcelonas and Real Madrids’ of the industry was vital in producing the Time Hops.

“People didn’t know how to brew them – there are four breweries at the forefront of production.

“Once we decided that hops would shape the landscape of what we were doing, we looked at the breweries that were responsible [for their development] and visited them.

“We learned from the techniques and knowledge that they shared.”

Mr Lincoln praised the solidarity between the breweries, who did not hold any reservations in offering up their knowledge and guidance.

The festival will offer visitors an exclusive preview of the Time Hops, a week before they are available to the public.

There will be 70 beers to try in total, featuring Siren Craft Brew’s next-door neighbours Elusive and more distant Brew York.

LEISURETODAY LEISURE TODAY

21.07.22

Your guide to what’s on across Reading and Wokingham

Does an angel contemplate my fate?

F

OR TWO weeks at the end of June, Progress Theatre put the fruits of three years’ worth of work to the stage with one of its most ambitious productions yet, Angels in America.

The play looked at the lives of two couples as they struggle to navigate their relationships in mid-80s New York, examining the effects of the AIDS crisis, homosexuality, race, suppression of self, and mental health.

Matthew Beswick, the director, says that even in the years since he began working on the production, its enduring relevance has continued to shift.

“It’s strange, because I proposed the play in 2019, but the pandemic has given it an extra edge.

“The hopeful message at the end of the play, the decision that all someone wants is more life no matter how sick they are, resonates with me far more now than before.”

He says also that there are some

parallels to be drawn between the handling of the AIDS crisis and the handling of the coronavirus pandemic.

“For many years governments and public bodies did nothing about AIDS and many people needlessly died– even when action was taken, funding was often insufficient.

“So many gay men were completely abandoned and that abandonment is at the core of the play.”

In the play, Prior and Louis, a gay couple, are cast apart when Louis struggles to come to terms with Prior’s AIDS diagnosis.

Louis leaves, and is thrown into a triste with closeted, married legal clerk Joe. “In some ways, I think the world has changed massively for the good in regards to LGBTQIA+ rights.

“But I also feel there’s always going to be a not insignificant number of people waiting for the opportunity to exclude queer people or throw

out false accusations rooted in bigotry.

“The one that springs to mind is how Drag Queen Story Hour events are being attacked across the country recently– despite the fact they grew up with panto dames and Lily Savage but they can’t see the truth through their hatred.”

He says that issues facing trans people, such as recent high-profile legislation concerning the banning of conversion therapy, are a “stark reminder of how quickly public discourse can change.

“That’s why we must stand in unison, LGB with the T, as once trans people have been oppressed then other queer minorities will follow.

“There is no satisfying bigotry by sacrificing one vulnerable group, they will just move onto the next most vulnerable.”

On the play’s most prominent subject, Matthew says that the play’s presentation of the characters’

struggles with AIDS is one of the reasons he loves the production.

“I’ve loved it since I first saw it about 20 years ago because the characters who have AIDS are not just tragic victims.

“In fact, in the case of Roy Cohn, he was a terrible person, and that really spoke to me because disease is indiscriminate.”

“Often the person dying of AIDS is a tragedy that motivates another character, but isn’t a whole fully-formed person in their own right.”

He says that this is what he feels makes Angels in America so unique.

“Everyone has very complex motivations and desires driving their actions – they are not defined by AIDS no matter how drastically it changes the characters lives.”

Now that the production has finished, he says that the realisation of the production is one of his favourite parts of the process.

He says: “A lot of the set, lighting, and music is theoretical up to that point, but once you’re on stage you really start to believe everything will come together.

“It re-energises the cast as well once they can see everything falling into place. This project was particularly special because we had some big set pieces.

“From the angel sculpture that Lydia Freeman made, to the rising platform and canvas wall that had to drop at the end of play one, it was really spectacular to see it all come together. “ Though the production of Angels in America has now finished, Progress Theatre is staging its adaptation of Charles Dickens’ Great Expectations at the Abbey Ruins from Wednesday, July 20, to Saturday, July 30. For more, see overleaf. n For more information, or to book tickets, visit: www.progresstheatre. co.uk.

JAKE CLOTHIER

14 | LEISURE

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British, American and Scandi fusion A NIGHT of music influenced by British, American and Scandinavian folk traditions.

The Shackleton Trio play songs from their new album, Mousehold.

The group has received five-star reviews and has featured on BBC Radio 2 and 4.

They play at Norden Farm, Maidenhead on Thursday, July 21.

The event starts at 8pm and tickets cost £15. n For tickets and information log on to: norden.farmor call the box office on: 01628 788977. n For information about the group visit: www.shackletontrio.co.uk

Springsteen’s greatest hits on stage FANS of the American singer songwriter will enjoy this concert.

Eight piece tribute band, The Sound of Springsteen, play the rock legend’s greatest hits.

Audiences will hear classics such as Born In The USA, Glory Days, and Streets of Philadelphia.

The group plays at Norden Farm, Maidenhead on Friday, July 22.

The event starts at 8pm and tickets cost £22. n For tickets and information log on to: norden.farm, or call the box office on: 01628 788977. n For information about the group visit: www.sospringsteen.co.uk

A night of Latin American magic

WITH its roots in flamenco, Raíces brings continental passion and rhythm to Maidenhead.

Rebeca Ortega will perform authentic steps from the traditions of the flamenco, the taranto, the tango and more.

She dances to the accompaniment of guitar, vocal accompaniment and hand clapping.

With lavish costumes, fast footwork and elegant moves, she performs on Wednesday, July 27.

Raíces starts at 8pm and tickets cost £17. n For tickets and information log on to: norden.farm or call the box office on: 01628 788977. n For information about Rebeca Ortega visit: www.rebecaortega.com

WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, July 21, 2022

But on a farm in rural Louisiana three children are hoping for a miracle.

Then teenager, Swallow, discovers a man hiding in the family barn, and thinks he is Jesus.

And she and her friends attempt to protect their saviour.

As fantasy and reality collide, Swallow begins to discover who she is and what it means to grow up.

The production runs from Friday, July 22 through to Saturday, September 10, with the exception of Sundays.

Evening performances start at 7.30pm, with Wednesday and Saturday matinées at 2.30pm.

Tickets cost from £15 depending on seating.

A first week special offer sees £5 off tickets from 22 to 26 July n For tickets and information visit: www. watermill.org.ukor call the box office: 01635 46044

Exceeding expectations FRESH from its recent production of Angels in America, Progress Theatre is set to begin showing its adaptation of Charles Dickens’ Great Expectations.

The company is promising a “fast-paced” production, set to take place in the ruins of Reading Abbey.

Great Expectations follows the life of Pip, an orphan, as he is raised by his cruel older sister and her kinder husband.

The work has been adapted for the stage by John R. Goodman.

It is the latest of Progress Theatre’s annual open air productions, which have been staged by the company since 1994.

This will be only the second open air production which is not based on a work by William Shakespeare, after Wind in the Willows was staged in 2017.

Great Expectations will be showing at Reading Abbey Ruins from Wednesday, July 20, to Saturday, July 30, except Sunday, July 24.

Showings begin at 7:30pm, and guests are reminded that due to the open air venue, rain or colder temperatures during the evening are possible. n For more information, or to book tickets, visit: www. progresstheatre.co.uk

Dancing to a new rhythm

RHYTHM of the Dance returns to the Corn Exchange with a brand-new show.

Featuring live musicians, vocalists and dancers, it follows a journey through Ireland’s history, from ancient legend and myth, to modern urban Ireland.

The audience can expect a night of spectacular Irish dance with lyrical and contemporary influences.

Rhythm of the Dance takes place on Thursday, July 28.

It starts at 7.45 and tickets cost £29. n For tickets and information log on to: www.cornexchangenew.comor call the box office on: 0845 521 8218.

Lottery beating magician’s new trick

Jodie Comer’s stage show on big screen

A MAGICIAN who jamming the BBC switchboards after correctly predicting the lottery, comes to Maidenhead.

His magic show promises to leave its audience ‘aching with laughter and dizzy from disbelief’.

Directed by the late Paul Daniels, The Greatest Magician stars James Phelan.

The event takes place at Norden Farm, Maidenhead on Saturday, July 23.

The show starts at 8pm and tickets cost £17.50 n For tickets and information log on to: norden.farm, or call the box office on: 01628 788977.

A THEATRE performance starring Jodie Comer, from TV’s Killing Eve, will be shown to audiences nationally.

Prima Facie, recorded earlier in its West End run, sees Tessa, a young and brilliant barrister, work her way to the top of her profession.

Along the way she must confront compelling questions of power, proof and morals.

A one-woman debut performance, Prima Facie has earned Corner star reviews.

The screening comes to The Hexagon Theatre, Reading tonight,Thursday, July 21.

The event will start at 7pm.

Tickets cost £13 for adults, £11 for students, over 60s and under 16s. n For tickets and information visit: whatsonreading.comor call the box office: 0118 960 6060

Hoping for a miracle in 50s Americana WHISTLE Down The Wind boasts a cast of actor-musicians alongside talented local young people.

With music by Andrew Lloyd Webber, it tells the story of a young person growing up in the Deep South of America.

It is set in the 1950s when the civil rights movement is growing and the golden age of television has begun.

Talented duo to perform some improv

IMOGEN Ryall and Julian Nicholas team up for a night of skilful musical improvisation in Guildford.

Vocalist Ryall has performed throughout the UK, Europe and the Middle East.

Tenor saxophonist Nicholas has been a leading player on the jazz scene since the mid 1980’s.

They are joined for an evening of music by guitar and bass instrumentalists.

The event takes place in the Yvonne Arnaud Theatre garden on Saturday, July 23.

It starts at 7pm, and tickets cost £20. n For tickets and information visit: yvonne-arnaud.co.ukor call the box office: 0148 344 0000

AT THE THEATRE

Bracknell – South Hill Park

www.southhillpark.org.uk 01344 484123 Edinburgh Previews. Fri 22. Wilde Sundays: Tomorrow Bird, Meddling Fox, Manna Ash. Sun 24. Live Music on the Terrace.

Sun 24. Ordinary Days. Fri 29-Sun 31.

FILMS: Prima Facie. Thurs 21, Sun 24. Bergman Island.

Fri 22, Thurs 28. Top Gun Maverick. Fri 22-Sun 24, Wed 27. Il Buco. Mon 25Tues 26. The Road Dance.

Fri 29-Sun 31 . Lightyear. Sat 30-Sun 31.

Camberley – Theatre

www.camberleytheatre.biz 01276 707600 Hairspray. Thurs 21-Sat 23. Mama G’s Storytime Roadshow. Sat 23. Silent Disco. Sat 30-Sun

31. Craft Show and Market.

Sun 31.

Guildford – Yvonne Arnaud

www.yvonne-arnaud.co.uk 01483 440000 Jazz on a Summer’s Evening: Imogen Ryall and Julian Nicholas. Sat 23.

High Wycombe – Wycombe Swan

www.wycombeswan.co.uk 01494 512000 NEXT SHOW: Peppa Pig’s Best Day Ever. Sat Aug 13-Sun Aug 15.

Henley – Kenton

www.kentontheatre.co.uk 01491 525050 Kenton Summer Roadshow: A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Sat 23. Fanboy. Thurs 28. Kenton

Summer Roadshow: Catch That Beast. Fri 29. Kenton Summer Roadshow: The Pirate of Penzance. Sat 30.

Maidenhead – Norden Farm

www.nordenfarm.org 01628 788997 National Theatre Live: Prima Facie. Thurs 21, Sat 23. The Shackleton Trio. Thurs 21. Elvis (12a). Fri 22, Tues 26.

The Sound of Springsteen. Fri 22. The Greatest Magician.

Sat 23. Lightyear (PG). Tues 26, Thurs 28. Flamenco Dance.

Wed 27. Minions: The Rise of Gru (U). Fri 29, Sat 30. Catch That Beast. Sat 30. The Vinyl Frontier Singles Championship.

Sat 30.

Newbury – The Corn Exchange

www.cornexchangenew.com 0845 5218 218 The Johnny Cash Roadshow. Thurs 21. The Bon Jovi Experience.

Fri 22. NT Encore: Prima Facie (15). Sun 24. Rhythm of the Dance. Thurs 28. Mystery of Science Live: Science Saved The World. Sat 30. Highclere Castle Battle Proms Concert.

Sat 30.

Newbury – The Watermill

www.watermill.org.uk 01635 46044 Whistle Down The Wind. Fri 22-Sep 10

Reading – South Street

www.whatsonreading.com 0118 960 6060 Rich Meehan Trio. Thurs 21. Mark Thomas Black and White

(preview). Fri 22. South Street Comedy Club. Sat 30.

Reading – The Hexagon

www.whatsonreading.com 0118 960 6060 NT Live Prima Facie.

Thurs 21.

Reading – Concert Hall www.whatsonreading.com 0118 960 6060 NEXT SHOW: Brindley Sherratt.

Sep 10.

Reading – Progress Theatre

www.progresstheatre.co.uk 0118 384 2195 Great Expectations: Open air in Abbey Ruins. Until Sat 30.

Reading – Reading Rep Theatre

www.readingrep.com 0118 370 2620 NEXT SHOW: Jekyll and Hyde.

Oct 10-29.

Shinfield – Shinfield Players

www.shinfieldplayers.org.uk 0118 975 8880 NEXT SHOW: Our House. Fri Sept 30-Sat Oct 1, Thurs Oct 6-Sat Oct 8.

Sonning – The Mill

www.millatsonning.com 0118 969 8000 Barefoot in the Park. Until Aug 20.

Sounds of the 70s With The Zoots. Sun 31.

Windsor – Theatre Royal

www.theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk 01753 853888 Private Lives: Windsor on Air.

Until Sat 23. Three Steps To Heaven. Sun 24-Tues 26. Blood Brothers. Fri 29-Sat 30.

Wokingham – Theatre www.wokinghamtheatre.org.uk 0118 978 5363 Daisy Pulls It Off. Until Sat 23.

NEXT SHOW: A Bunch of Amateurs. Thurs Sept 8-Sat Sept 17.

Wokingham – The Whitty Theatre

www.thewhittytheatre.org 0118 974 3247 NEXT SHOW: Wokingham Film Society: Drive My Car (15).

Thurs Aug 4.

Woodley – Theatre

www.woodleytheatre.org 07488337838 NEXT SHOW: Teechers. Sept 27-Oct 1.

Thursday, July 21, 2022 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

LEISURE | 15

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Angels in America shows community theatre has real wings

Stop me if you’ve signed this before

Matthew Turner as Joe, and Karmella Czwordon as Harper.

A

NGELS in America has garnered its writer, Tony Kushner, a number of awards, including two consecutive Tony awards in 1993 and 1994, and Pulitzer Prize.

With productions like Progress Theatre’s, it’s easy to see why.

The play follows the lives of two separate couples as their worlds collide in mid-80s New York, where Prior contracts AIDS and his boyfriend Louis leaves.

Louis meets Joe, a lawyer who is struggling to connect to his wife, Harper.

It takes place over two full-length plays, Millenium Approaches and Perestroika, with most full productions lasting well over seven hours.

It is, as such, no small feat that Progress Theatre’s production doesn’t even begin to approach the feeling of an overly generous run-time.

In fact, it is to its great credit that the first half of the production races by in a flash.

Firstly the strong cast of eight show not only versatility– with each actor filling at least two roles, most closer to four or five– but also their ability and comfort in their roles.

Jake Turnell Willett plays Prior with a dramatic, pearlclutching campness which still avoids being over-egged.

He gives a more grounded, well-observed flamboyance which suits the character perfectly, and the warmth of his portrayal is the keystone which holds much of emotional investment in the events of the play.

He is matched by Dan Clarke’s similarly credible portrayal of Prior’s boyfriend, Louis, which takes a comfortable but considered approach to the Jewish diaspora in the United States of the late 80s.

Again, the warmth of the portrayal means that Louis and Prior feel, rightly, like the focus of the play’s first half.

They’re joined by Joe and Harper as the “main” four characters of the play, who are also struggling to hold their relationship together.

Harper is wrestling with with her mental health, while Joe tackles pressure from his work as a legal clerk and suppressed sexual frustrations.

Karmella Czwordon’s portrayal of Harper delights in the often absurd places the strange reality of the play takes her, but without making light

of them.

Similarly, Matthew Turner carried the struggles of homosexual repression well, torn between the idea of a white-picket-fence, American Dream-style marriage and his more realistic internal desires.

Paul Gallantry’s portrayal of American lawyer Roy Cohn was enjoyable, especially as the very darkest sides of the character come to the fore while he spirals during the second half.

Melanie Sherwood in particular juggled a number of roles with ease.

As both Hannah, Joe’s mother, and the ghost of Ethel Rosenberg, she carried a solemn counterpoint to the lighter aspects of the production, adding a palpable gravity to much of the narrative’s plot developments.

As Rabbi Chemelwotz, however, she shows a weary, sardonic wit in an opening scene which, through her alone, sets the contrasting tones of the production perfectly.

Rounding out the cast, Megan Turnell Willet shows a comparable dexterity, and Nii Okyne’s soft-spoken portrayal of ex-drag queen nurse Belize is a joy to watch.

Overall, the production is carried by its characters, which is often a necessity without a West End budget.

However the preparation and thorough consideration that went into this production is clear from the first line.

Director Matthew Beswick’s work is commendable, not only because of the sheer unwieldy duration of the plays, but also because it seems immaterial on viewing.

Seven hours or more of passable theatre would be one thing, but seven hours of funny, touching, authentic, and at times devastatingly sad storytelling is entirely another.

In fact, it’s an impressive show of talent and dedication from everyone involved.

Angels in America has had some incredible productions, with the likes of Daniel Craig, Andrew Garfield, Russell Tovey, and Bob The Drag Queen taking up roles.

Progress has shown, not for the first time, that while big names and production values can make a great performance, a cast and crew who care about their craft can make a truly memorable one.

JAKE CLOTHIER

Ray Bradshaw will be at South Street and Norden Farm next year - tickets are already on sale

A

COMIC who can tell a joke just by moving his hands is preparing to come to Reading and Maidenhead next year.

Award-winning gagmeister Ray Bradshaw will tour his new show Deaf Com 1.

In it, he will explore the changes to his life since becoming a Dad, including trying to teach his young son to use sign language.

Ray is a CODA - child of a deaf adult - so he has an incentive to tell his son that it’s time to sign.

The show also looks at a trip to Bahrain that was memorable, just not necessarily for the right reasons.

Ray’s sets are always performing in both British Sign Language and English, making them accessible to audiences that might not otherwise get the joke.

His 2018 show, Deaf Comedy Fam, was the first-ever live comedy experience for more than 800 deaf audience members.

Ray received rave reviews for the show, which sold out its run at the Edinburgh Fringe, went on to win the

Innovation Award at the Adelaide Fringe 2018 and be nominated for Best Comedy at Perth Fringe.

Since then, he has toured with Doctor Who actor John Bishop, and toured with Frankie Boyle in 2019.

He was the first comedian to ever win a Scottish Culture Award and is a regular host of Scotland’s most popular radio show, Off the Ball.

Ray says: “I’m so excited to be go back out on tour and play all these amazing venues and even go to places I’ve genuinely never heard of.

“If you’ve read this far then it’s legally binding that you have to buy a ticket to the venue closest to you.” n The show comes to South Street on Wednesday, February 15. For tickets, log on to www.whatsonreading.com, or call the box office on 0118 960 6060. n And the Norden Farm date will be Thursday, March 23. For tickets, log on to norden.farm. n For more on the show, log on to www.mcintyre-ents.com

PHIL CREIGHTON

16 | LEISURE

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Classical music evening at Minster AN EVENING of classical lieder, operatic arias and musical theatre is coming to Reading town centre this weekend.

On Friday, soprano Stephanie Hershaw and pianist George Ireland will perform at Reading Minster Church.

The duo are both alumnae of the Royal College of Music.

Doors open at 7.15pm, with the performance starting at 7.30pm. There is a charity bar in the interval.

Tickets cost £10, with a limited number on the door.

They can ordered in advance via Eventbrite. n For more details, log on to: www.readingminster.org.uk

Kossoff tribute WOKINGHAM MUSIC Club will be back on Friday, with a performance in tribute to blues rocker Paul Kossoff.

He was the lead guitarist in 1970s band Free, but died when he was just 25.

His music lives on with The Band Plays On, featuring Terry Slesser, the lead vocalist of Koss’s post-Free band, Back Street Crawler.

The gig takes place the Royal British Legion in Winnersh from 7pm. Tickets cost £20 in advance, or £24 on the door, if available. n For more details, log on to: http://www. wokinghammusicclub.co.uk/gigs

Be captivated by Ordinary Days at South Hill Park

A

MUSICAL described as funny, fresh and modern is coming to Bracknell next weekend.

BB Theatre Productions will present Ordinary Days at South Hill Park, ahead of a run at Edinburgh later this summer.

The show is about two women and two men who navigate their relationships against the backdrop of vibrant New York City.

The story follows Deb as she loses her most precious possession, the notes to her thesis and this unwittingly starts a chain of events that turns the ordinary days of these four New Yorkers into something extraordinary.

But it’s not just the search for the notes. It’s also a quest for love, success and happiness.

TJ Lloyd directs an ensemble of four, seasoned musical performers singing acoustically, with piano accompaniment by Richard Whennell.

“The music and lyrics take us on an inspirational feel-good and emotional journey and is a must-see for Bracknell audiences, having never been performed here before,” he said.

RHYTHM OF THE DANCE IS COMING TO THE HEXAGON IN READING THIS NOVEMBER

DAYS OUT: Ordinary Days will be performed at South Hill Park from Friday, July 29, through to Sunday, July 31 BB Theatre Productions was established in 2016 with the aim of bringing fresh, new talent to the National Stage.

Performances at the Edinburgh Fringe in 2016 (Assassins), 2017 (Merrily We Roll Along) and 2018 (Lucky Stiff) were met with critical acclaim and the company recently performed a Berkshire revival of Assassins, which is running alongside

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Return coach travel from Crawley 4 nights at the Warner Corton Coastal Village with dinner & breakfast Daytime activities in resort Entertainment every evening Excursions to Norwich & the Norfolk Broads by coach

Return coach travel from Wokingham 4 nights at the Seacote Hotel, St Bees, with dinner & breakfast Entertainment some evenings Heritage train journey on the Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway Lake Windermere cruise Excursions to Bowness-on-Windermere, the World of Beatrix Potter Attraction, Hawkshead (via the Kirkstone Pass) & Grasmere

Optional excursion to Aldeburgh, Southwold & Oulton Broad (£12pp)

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Ordinary Days this summer.

The slice of New York life will be at South Hill Park from Friday, July 29, through Sunday, July 31.

Curtain up is 8pm on Friday, 3pm and 8pm on Saturday and 3pm on Sunday. Tickets cost £15.50, or £13.50 for members.

For more details, or to book, log on to: southhillpark.org.uk or call the box office on: 01344 484123.

Irish dancers to bring some festive cheer to The Hexagon TICKETS have gone on sale for a Christmas special.

Rhythm of the Dance will be performing at The Hexagon, with a new show just in time for the festive season.

The show will see favourite seasonal numbers performed by world-class musicians, star vocalists and world champion dancers.

Organisers say: “Prepare to be taken on a special journey that is Irish in essence with that added touch of Christmas magic.”

The show takes place on Tuesday, November 22, from 7.30pm.

Tickets cost £32, and can be reserved by calling the box office on: 0118 960 6060, or logging on to whatsonreading.com

Rising Sun to shine with festival THE RISING SUN will be shining with the return of its popular festival event after a covidenforced break.

Here Comes The Sun is a one-day extravaganza that takes place in the Silver Street venue, featuring a celebration of everything the arts centre holds dear.

There will be live entertainment both inside and outside the buildings, and a celebration of visual arts, and activities for children.

The event helps raise funds to keep the centre going, making it a space for artists, audiences and groups to enjoy.

On the line-up are soul and Motown covers band The Mark II, alt-rock four-piece Elucidate, psychedelic rager Dr Satso, and country, folk, chanson and skiffle group Grae J Wall and Los Chicos Muertos.

Lee Switzerland-Woolf will perform folktronica, and alt-rock will come from Dakorra, a new project from Ocean Ruins singer

Kate Herridge.

On the arts side, expect performances from the Dreading Poetry Slam team, comedy from Zap!, and Cameron Chung will present a few of their songs.

Other acts include Phantom Booth, Jen Berkova, and Jamie Larbalestier.

The event takes place on Saturday, August 6. Tickets cost £11 in advance, under 14s can get in free, and the capacity is 150. n For more details, or to book, log on to: risingsunartscentre.org

Open-air celebration of Women’s Institute thanks to Mikron Theatre AN AFFECTIONATE celebration of the Women’s Institute is coming to three Reading-area venues over the coming weeks.

Mikron Theatre Company is a touring group that perform at riverside venues.

For their summer tour, they will be performing Raising Agents.

The play is set around the failing Bunnington WI. Its dwindling membership means they can barely afford the hall hire fee, let alone a decent speaker.

But a PR guru’s big ideas go down like an overcooked rock cake.

A battle then ensues for the soul of Bunnington, with the

stakes higher than a five-tiered cake stand.

The show comes to Caversham Court Gardens on Tuesday, July 19. On Wednesday, July 20, it will be at The Rowbarge in Station Road, Woolhampton.

And on Wednesday, July 27,

The Cunning Man in Burghfield will be the destination.

All shows start at 7pm. No tickets required, after the show, there will be a ‘pay what you feel’ collection. n For more details, log on to: https://mikron.org.uk/shows

SPORT TODAY

WOKINGHAM

NO ONE CHRONICLES THE ACTION BETTER THAN US

21.07.22

BRACKNELL BEAT BOARS

FINCH HIT FIELDERS FOR 4

SWORDS TESTED IN FRENDLY

LONG MAKES ROYALS RETURN AT FRIENDLY

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today SHANE LONG made his greatly anticipated return in a Royals shirt last weekend in front of the home fans.

Having made his miraculous return to the club where he made

HOME SWEET HOME his name, Long put on the blue and white hoops for the first time in more than a decade in a pre-season friendly against West Ham. In a fresh looking Reading side under Paul Ince, Long made a second-half appearance as Yakou Meite grabbed a goal to see the

Royals take a commendable 1-1 draw against the Premier League outfit.

After an eight-year stint on the South Coast with Southampton, Long has signed a one-year deal with Reading and will hope to bolster their striking options ahead of the 2022/23 Championship season.

The Royals begin their new season away at Blackpool on Saturday, July 30, and face Brighton & Hove Albion on Saturday, July 23, at the Select Car Leasing Stadium in their final friendly match.

n Match report and pictures on pages 22 & 23

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HUTCHINSON CLOSE TO SEALING ROYALS SWITCH READING FC are close to sealing a deal to sign defender Sam Hutchinson.

Hutchinson has been on trial with the Royals and has featured in pre-season matches against SL Benfica and West Ham United.

His impressive performance in front of the home fans at the Select Car Leasing Stadium against the Hammers caught the eye of many in attendance.

Hutchinson, who was born in Berkshire, started his youth career at Chelsea and was tipped to become a big star in West London.

After making three Premier League appearances for Chelsea’s first-team during his first spell at the club, Hutchinson decided to retire from professional football at the age of just 21 after persistent knee injuries in August 2010.

However, after making a good recovery, Hutchinson came out of retirement in December 2011, and signed a new 18-month deal with the Blues.

He kickstarted his career after a move to Sheffield Wednesday loan in 2014 after a successful loan spell. He went on to make 133 league appearances in his first sixyear spell with Wednesday, with three goals to his name.

After a brief spell with Cpriot club Patos in 2020 where he made seven appearances, Hutchinson returned to Wednesday in January 2021.

He played 22 Championship games in the 2020/21 season and played 28 times in League One for Wednesday last campaign.

WOKINGHAM TODAY READING TODAY 0800 30 50 30 www.trademarkwindows.co.uk

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Matt Gilkes batting Finchampstead (batting) v Wokingham Pictures: Steve Smyth

Eversley 2s (batting) v Bracknell Pictures: Steve Smyth

By ANDY PRESTON sport@wokingham.today

Thames Valley Division 1 CRICKET

OAKS OUST FINCH IN LOCAL BATTLE

By ANDY PRESTON sport@wokingham.today

Home Counties Premier Division 1

WOKINGHAM ensured their place in third as they stayed in touch with the top two with victory over FINCHAMPSTEAD. Finch selected to bat first and made a reasonable start by putting 45 runs on the board before the first wicket fell when Moffatt was caught by Max Uttley, bowled Shaan Khan for 18.

Finch batted resolutely and had 178 runs on the scoreboard by the time that five wickets were taken.

Finch ended the first innings with 230 with Matt Gilkes top scoring with 59, while clinical Oaks bowler Uttley collected five wickets.

Wokingham set about their task in strong fashion and surpassed the century mark by the time two wickets were taken.

With 209 runs on the board by the time six wickets were up, the Oaks were well on their way to victory which saw them seal the win with three wickets to spare.

Opening batsman Andy Rishton scored 87, while Conrad Louth totalled a half century.

Home Counties Premier Division 2

WARGRAVE picked up nine points on the road with a draw at Horspath.

Toby Greatwood hit 73 not out which saw Wargrave finish with 195-9 after 52 overs compared to 207-9 from 58 overs from the hosts.

The result leaves Wargrave just 10 points behind league leaders Harefield in second position.

BCM Championship WEST READING are in fourth despite losing out to Penn & Tylers Green.

Saqib Gulfraz took four wickets, while Muhammad Zameer collected three wickets for West Reading which saw Penn finish on 174..

Gulfraz top scored with 38, but Reading were all out on 124.

SHINFIELD earned a one-wicket win on the road at Ley Hill.

Four wickets from F Ali saw Hill all out on 278 and a century from Abhishek Chatterjee saw Shinfield over the line after 41.3 overs.

CROWTHORNE & CROWN WOOD amassed 38 points with a 12-run success over Braywood.

Four wickets from Crows bowler Jeff Cluett helped them to take the points.

CMB Premiership EMMBROOK AND BEARWOOD are up to third after they defeated Denham.

Three wickets each from Charlie Sawyer, James Gibbs and Andy Lazenbury helped to bowl Denham all out for 109.

The Bears got the job done after 20.1 overs thanks to 43 runs each from Matt Loxton and Will Wells.

Chilterns Division Two EMMBROOK AND BEARWOOD 2s are in second after accumulating 35 points away from home.

Daniel Mead and Mark Lazenbury ended with three wickets each, while 73 runs from Matt Booth helped the Bears to a three wicket win.

BCL Premier Division SHINFIELD 2s are in second position after their two wicket success over Welford Park.

They chased down 142 to take the win after 26.2 overs.

FARLEY HILL got the better of WEST READING 2s by just nine runs in a close contest.

Ali jalil recorded a half century for Farley and a five wicket haul from Errol Masters in the second innings saw Farley to victory.

SANDHURST amassed a huge 127-run win over Goring on Thames.

Dilupa Chandrasekara top scored with 70 and took three wickets in the second innings.

EVERSLEY remain in sixth after they got the better of league leaders Stoke Green.

A superb first innings from Eversley saw them put 288 on the board after 95 from Oli Parsons And three wickets from B Salter helped them bowl Stoke Green all out for 219 to confirm a 69-run success.

Thames Valley Division 2B WOKINGHAM 2s stay at the top of the table after they drew with third place FINCHAMPSTEAD 2s.

Jed Crerar hit 57 runs for Finch, while John McDonald was in exceptional bowling form and collected five wickets.

Mac D’Souza totalled 75 runs not out for the Oaks as Wokingham finished on 161 compared to Finch’s 199.

READING fell to defeat against Slough 2s by four wickets.

S Jheeta smacked a century for Reading in the first innings, but Slough chased down the target with four wickets to spare.

HURST hit 214 in the second innings to take a draw away at Cove.

BINFIELD are still in sixth after they drew with Sulhamstead & Ufton.

Thames Valley Division 3A SONNING kept their status at the top of the table with a nine wicket win over WARGRAVE 2s.

C Wardlow smacked 97 runs in the second innings as Sonning breezed to victory after 23 overs, dropping just one wicket.

Thames Valley Division 4A WOKINGHAM 3s are still league leaders after they took a draw away at Purley on Thames.

Bishop ended with a five wicket haul, while 63 not out from Martin saw the Oaks finish on 218-3 from 48 overs.

FINCHAMPSTEAD 3s are in sixth after their seven wicket loss to Henley 3s.

Sam Smith hit 68 runs for Finch but they lost out after Henley chased down the target of 221 to take the game.

Thames Valley Division 5B READING 2s are in second place after they got the better of bottom side Purley on Thames 2s.

An outstanding bowling spell from D Wood saw him collect seven wickets to skittle Purley all out on 58 after a first innings total of 182 from Reading to seal a big 124-run win.

BRACKNELL remain in third after they held off fourth place EVERSLEY 2s.

M Martin hit a huge total of 137, but 83 from Zee saw Bracknell over the line in the second innings with four wickets in reserve.

BINFIELD 2s won on the road by 33 runs at Bagshot 2s.

S Jeffrey amassed 77 runs as Binfield hit 269, while S Atkins took four wickets to see them to an away win.

FINCHAMPSTEAD 4s recorded 14 points, while SONNING 2s ended with eight after the teams drew.

Finch ended with 295-6 from 52 overs, while Sonning 2s were on 235-7 after 48 overs.

19

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OLD OFF EVERSLEY FIGHT

HONOURS BOARD BATTING

Eversley 2s (batting) v Bracknell

Eversley 2s (batting) v Bracknell

Thames Valley Division 6B

EVERSLEY 3s leapfrogged WOKINGHAM 4s in the table after their away success.

Anup Urath top scored with 74 to contribute to Eversley’s 286, while the Oaks were all out on 228 to verify a 58-run win for Eversley.

The result puts Eversley up to eighth, while Wokingham are ninth after 11 games each in the division.

Eversley 2s (batting) v Bracknell

Eversley 2s (batting) v Bracknell

Thames Valley Division 7A WHITE WALTHAM 2s dropped from top spot after their defeat to Newbury 2s.

WOKINGHAM 5s climbed up to eighth after their victory over Maidenhead & Bray 3s.

Thames Valley Division 8A BINFIELD stay in command at the top after their 36-run victory over READING 3s.

Eversley 2s (batting) v Bracknell

WOMEN’S CRICKET

CROWS TAKE CONVINCING WIN OVER EVERSLEY

By GUEST CONTRIBUTOR sport@wokingham.today CROWTHORNE & Crown Wood Women’s first XI defeated Eversley Girls & Ladies in a friendly match on Saturday.

The Crows were sent in to bat with openers Lou Roberts and Marsha Connolly setting the pace by scoring 10 off 18 before Nik Mansfield and Seetal Bhati took over to attain a further 17 in their partnership.

The third pair with top run scorer Lorna Owens rattled the opposition with their 26 runs and the baton was then handed over for the final couplet to take another 23 runs t o move the total up to a respectable 305-1.

The Coyotes then took to the field with the first wicket falling in the first over courtesy of Marsha Connolly.

The mood was electric and the action was far from over with more scalps taken by Anita Applin, a second from Marsha Connolly

and then some timely catches – a single handed stretch from bowler Gillian Finucane and another careful gather from Helena Jones.

Sensational wicket keeping from Nik Mansfield ensured the run rate was kept to a minimum.

She also saw only one ball fall behind her and her quick thinking to move into place for a sensational run out with the ball hurtling in from the boundary left the Eversley visitors having too big a mountain to climb, racking up 249-6, falling 56 runs short.

Dan Molloy - White Waltham v Windsor - 156* Matthew Martin - Eversley 2s v Bracknell - 137 D Saodekar - Bracknell 2s v Bradfield 2s - 120* Mitesh Patel - Binfield 3s v Reading 3s - 113 Abhishek Chatterjee- Shinfield v Ley Hill - 104 S Jheeta - Reading v Slough 2s - 103 Daniel Aston - Eversley 4s v Bagshot 3s - 101 Arshad Kaffar - Berkshire Royals v Reading United - 97* Connor Wardlaw - Sonning v Wargrave 2s - 97 Oli Parsons - Eversley v Stoke Green - 95 Andy Rishton - Wokingham v Finchampstead - 87 Zeeshan Mehtab - Bracknell v Eversley 2s - 83 Imran Zaman - West Reading 3s v Checkendon - 82 S Jeffrey - Binfield 2s v Bagshot 2s - 77 Mac Dsouza - Wokingham 2s v Finchampstead 2s - 75* Vinoth Palanisamy - Reading Lions v Stallions - 75 Gavankar - Finchampstead 4s v Sonning 2s - 74* Toby Greatwood - Wargrave v Horspath - 73* Matt Booth - Emmbrook and Bearwood 2s v Knotty Green 3s - 73 Dilupa Chandrasekara - Sandhurst v Goring on Thames - 70 C Morgan - Binfield v Sulhamstead & Ufton - 70 Sam Smith - Finchampstead 3s v Henley 3s - 68 I Humphrey - Binfield v Sulhamstead & Ufton - 66 Emad Khan - Reading United v Berkshire Royals - 64 Hanson Martin - Wokingham 3s v Purley on Thames - 63* James Watt - Hurst v Cove - 63 Anderson - Sonning 2s v Finchampstead 4s - 63 Yadavendra Natu - Woodley v Earley 2s - 62* Jathavedan - White Waltham v Windsor - 61 Matt Gilkes - Finchampstead v Wokingham - 59 Gary Shacklady - Earley 2s v Woodley - 59 Jed Crerar - Finchampstead 2s v Wokingham 2s - 57 Upendra Deshpande - Rangers v Farley Hill 2s - 55* Robert Casey - Earley v Silchester - 54 Ali Jalil - Farley Hill v West Reading 2s - 51* Lucky Sardar- Shinfield v Ley Hill - 51 Conrad Louth - Wokingham v Finchamptead - 50

BOWLING

Ranganath Deshpande - Rangers v Farley Hill 2s - 5-20 Ajay Singh - Woodley v Earley 2s - 5-21 Aran Long - Crowthorne & Crown Wood 2s v Shinfield 3s 5-24 Errol Masters - Farley Hill v West Reading 2s - 5-31 Dilip Maringanti - Reading United 2s v Warefield - 5-38 John McDonald - Wokingham 2s v Finchampstead 2s - 5-43 David Bishop - Wokingham 3s v Purley on Thames - 5-48 Saad Jaffary - Waltham St Lawrence v Mortimer West End 5-53 Morgan - Binfield 4s v Theale & Tilehurst 3s - 5-56 Max Uttley - Wokingham v Finchampstead - 5-57 Ankush Jain - Reading Lions v Stallions - 4-20 Jeff Cluett - Crowthorne & Crown Wood v Braywood - 4-27 Saqib Gulfraz - West Reading v Penn & Tylers - 4-29 Azmath Atham - Berkshire Royals v Reading United - 4-36 Deep Singh - Earley v Silchester - 4-41 S Atkins - Binfield 2s v Bagshot 2s - 4-41 Hessam Raja - West Reading 3s v Checkendon - 4-45 William Reis - Eversley 2s v Bracknell - 4-49 Fakhir Ali - Shinfield v Ley Hill - 4-51 Meganathan Kanagaraj - Bracknell v Eversley 2s - 4-77 Simon Hards - Sandhurst v Goring on Thames - 3-10 James Bewick - Finchampstead 2s v Wokingham 2s - 3-10 Andy Lazenbury - Emmbrook and Bearwood v Denham - 3-16 Mark Lazenbury - Emmbrook and Bearwood 2s v Knotty Green 3s- 3-18 James Gibbs - Emmbrook and Bearwood v Denham - 3-23 Charlie Sawyer - Emmbrook and Bearwood v Denham - 3-29 Jawad Ahmad - West Reading 2s v Farley Hill - 3-29 Daniel Mead - Emmbrook and Bearwood 2s v Knotty Green 3s - 3-34

20 | SPORT

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THE HEAT IS ON: TEAMS GRAB VALUABLE M FOOTBALL

Wokingham & Emmbrook in action against Marlow Pictures: Andrew Batt

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today WOKINGHAM & EMMBROOK FC got another 90 minutes under their belts ahead of the new Combined Counties Premier North campaign.

The Sumas took a 1-1 draw in sweltering conditions on Saturday against Marlow after Enow Ojong’s goal.

Eliot Whitehouse’s side have confirmed several more players to remain on the books for next season in the last

week including last season’s top scorer James Clark, Allen Bossman, Enow Ojong, Olly Noyes and Jordace HolderSpooner.

The Sumas also confirmed that last season’s U18’s captain Ellis Riley has been added to their squad for the upcoming campaign.

Wokingham host Woodley United on Saturday in a clash between two local sides at Emmbrook School (2pm kickoff).

BINFIELD visited Flackwell

Woodley United Ladies took on Burghfield Pictures: Andrew Batt

Heath in their latest friendly and came away with a 1-1 draw.

The Moles are in action this weekend at Hill Farm Lane against Ascot United.

After their battle against Ascot, Binfield are back in action on Tuesday, July 26 when they play hosts to Slough Town (7.45pm kick-off).

Meanwhile, BINFIELD U23’s contested their first friendly and defeated Sheerwater U23’s 5-2.

READING CITY lost out 4-0 at home against Thatcham Town.

BERKS COUNTY collected a 3-2 success against FC Fleet Town on Saturday.

WOODLEY UNITED got the better of Westwood Wanderers in their latest pre-season run out.

Woodley manager Jordan Blake said: “Good afternoons work out in the scorching conditions. Starting to gel and understand each other more and more as the pre season games go by.

“Most pleasing thing for me was to keep a clean sheet and

on another day we could of won by a bigger margin.”

The Kestrels will face Maidenhead Town on Thursday in their next test.

The match was originally scheduled to take place on Tuesday but has been rearranged due to the extreme weather conditions.

WOODLEY UNITED LADIES hosted BURGHFIELD LADIES as both sides prepared for the new season.

Woodley United manager Marc Surtees said: “I was really

pleased with the football we played today, everyone worked really hard in such hot conditions and there were some really good team goals.”

The Kestrels also announced Maddie Carter as their new signing this weekend to bolster their squad.

EVERSLEY & CALIFORNIA faced North Greenford United in their most recent friendly outing.

The Boars have retained sevaral players ahead of the new season in their hope

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MINUTES AHEAD OF NEW SEASON Woodham becomes ambassador for Proud Royals READING FC Women’s Lily Woodham has become the first player ambassador for LGBT+ group Proud Royals.

to push on from what was a successful 2021/22 season.

New signing Adam Crocker has been added to Matty Angell’s team after he turned out for both Hartley Whitney and Badshot Lea last season.

Meanwhile, Eversley has retained the services of goalkeeper Henry Pidgeon, right-back Troy Baker, Joe Pantony, Luke Frewin, Connor Allston, and Jamie Griggs as Angell’s squad begins to take shape ahead of a fresh schedule in Combined Counties Division One. Following their 4-0 defeat to READING CITY in their last preseason outing, BURGHFIELD return to action on Tuesday evening.

Their match against the Cityzens was their first run out of pre-season and they are up against Andover NS FC in midweek as they continue

preparations for a new season in the Thames Valley Premier League.

Another Thames Valley Premier League side, READING YMCA, have four more pre-season fixtures to look ahead to.

They battle with Chalvey Sports on Saturday before matches against Kintbury Development, Holyport Reserves and Hurst FC in the following weeks.

READING YMCA RAPIDS take on West Berks Wanderers this weekend and then continue their pursuit for fitness against BERKSHIRE ROYALS, SOUTHBANK and Henley Town Development.

Rapids manager Jamie Froude is also on the lookout to appoint a new assistant manager to join his coaching team ahead of their campaign in Thames Valley Division Two.

CRICKET

CROWS 3S TAKE FULL POINTS IN WIN OVER SHINFIELD 4S

By ANDY PRESTON aprestoN@wokingham.today CROWTHORNE & Crown Wood third XI took full points again after an impressive 50 run victory away to Shinfield 4s.

On a scorching day, the Crows won the toss and elected to bat.

Some tight bowling by Shinfield and variable bounce from the pitch left the Crows on 35-3 and facing an

uphill struggle.

An excellent century partnership from Simon Sheppard (64) and Prakash (72) Singh wrestled the momentum back.

Debutant youth player Arjit Das (11) made a useful contribution to help the Crows post a defendable 202-6 from their 40 overs.

In the field, the Crows were miserly in the first 10 overs with tight bowling from Marshall Miller

(0-27) and Shravan Sathiyan (1-5) giving the away side the upper hand.

The game swung back to Shinfield with an excellent partnership including 61 for Vineet Gandhi, but just as Shinfield were threatening to take control Mike Storey (2-29) got the key breakthrough.

At the other end Dave McQuitty (4-31) probed away and took wickets

with regularity, including a one handed catch from keeper/captain Richard Hester and a brilliant grab in the deep from Arjit Das to give the Crows full control.

They then closed out the game with smart death bowling from Prakash Singh (2-19) to make it 6 wins on the spin and leave them comfortably in fourth place in BCL Div 3 with the teams above them now looking over their shoulders.

The group, which is aiming to improve the matchday experience for supporters by promotion inclusivity at the club, was founded by matchday steward Tom Williams earlier this year.

21-year-old Woodham joined Reading in 2018 and recently put pen to paper on a new contract to extend her stay in Berkshire until 2024.

The full-back played 26 times for Kelly Chambers’ team last season.

After signing her new deal, Woodham said: “When I first joined, it took me a while to prove myself and now I feel completely trusted by the staff which has only helped boost my confidence in my own abilities.

“I have loved being here, being involved in every game I have, and learning from some of the best in the game with the likes of Fara Williams and Brooke Chaplen.

“Looking ahead to the next 50, it’s all about continuing to improve, repaying the faith Kelly and all the coaches put in me and hopefully getting my first goal.”

Proud Royals chairman Williams added: “I’m so excited for Lily to join Proud Royals as an ambassador. With her recent contract and joining us, I think on and off the pitch we can together make a difference.”

Proud Royals has recently begun running ‘Rainbow Royals’ football sessions at the Select Car Leasing Stadium Dome where it has invited people to come along to play football in a fun environment.

Williams added: “It’s a way of getting active in a safe and welcoming environment with qualified coaches and is open to everyone, not just the LGBTQ+ community.

“We want to get people involved and interested in the sport, and the aim is to try and build a team to enter the league within the Berks & Bucks area.

“That is a long way from now but just to get people active and enjoy being in an environment that suits them.

“The community trust has done a great job putting all this together, it will be a great event.”

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How they rated

WOKINGHAM TODAY READING TODAY 0800 30 50 30 www.trademarkwindows.co.uk PRE-SEASON FRIENDLY

MEITE ON TARGET AS ROYALS H READING 1 WEST HAM 1

Joe Lumley

Made fantastic saves to keep out Jarrod Bowen and Pablo Fornals.

Displayed his game awareness, notably cut off a threatening ball.

Tom McIntyre

Looked assured. Carried the ball well, breaking past West Ham’s front line on multiple occasions. Got the assist for Reading’s goal.

Sam Hutchinson

Commanding and composed.

Used his voice to organise a defensive line he has joined only recently.

Tom Holmes

A quiet display from the youngster. Definitely seemed to benefit from Hutchinson’s presence.

Junior Hoilett

Could have done better with West Ham’s goal; Jarrod Bowen jinked past him before putting in a sumptuous cross.

Tyrese Fornah

Impressive. Was assured with and without the ball. Seemed to gel with Hendrick in what could be a blossoming partnership.

Jeff Hendrick

Worked hard. Primary goal was to nullify West Ham’s midfield, which became harder after Rice and Fornals came on at halftime.

Andy Yiadom

Largely contained Said Benrahma and Ben Johnson. Started positively, finding himself in advanced positions early on.

Tom Ince

Created a golden chance for Joao. Became increasingly frustrated as the match wore on, regularly dropping deep in search of the ball.

Ovie Ejaria

Quiet. Showed some positive signs, notably playing a teasing through ball which only just evaded an on-rushing Ince.

Lucas Joao

To be fair to the front man, he did not have an awful lot to work off.

Did his best to hold the ball up and played his teammates in on occasion.

7 6 8 5 5 7 6 6 6 5 4

PLUS: Femi Azeez 5 Kian Leavy 5 Guinness-Walker 4

Dejan Tetek 6 Shane Long 5 Yakou Meite 7

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today A NEW LOOK Reading FC side made another step towards the new season as they held Premier League West Ham United to a draw at the Select Car Leasing Stadium.

Playing in front of the home fans for the first time this pre-season, Paul Ince’s men made a strong impression up against David Moyes’ Hammers side.

With plenty of new faces in the squad, it was Yakou Meite who popped up on the scoresheet to level after Nikola Vlasic’s opener for West Ham early in the first-half.

It’s been a summer of change in Berkshire which started with the appointment of Ince as full-time manager and was followed by former manager Mark Bowen returning as Head of Football Operations.

With several more changes behind the scenes, Reading also have a fresh look on the pitch after losing key players such as John Swift, Andy Rinomohta and Josh Laurent.

However, spirits were lifted by the nostalgic homecoming of fan favourite Shane Long who joined on a one-year deal, while Jeff Hendrick was added on loan from Newcastle United.

Hendrick was given a spot in the starting line-up, as was trialist Sam Hutchinson, while new club captain Andy Yiadom started at the back alongside Tom McIntyre and Tom Holmes.

With a few more trialists among the Reading squad, there was a familiar face in the Hammers’ starting eleven as former Royals academy product Michail Antonio

Ovie Ejaria pushes his way past his

Yakou Meite grabs the equaliser

Young player Kian Leavy

Match stats Reading: Lumley, Yiadom (c), McIntyre, Holmes, Hutchinson, Hendrick, Fornah, Ejaria, Hoilett, Ince, Joao

Meite is congratulated by his teammates

Subs: Bouzanis, El-Mhanni, Meite, Long, Guinness-Walker, Tetek, Abbey, Azeez, Ehibhatiomhan, Leavy, Clarke, Holzman, Scott, Abrefa West Ham: Fabianski (c), Coufal, Aguerd, Johnson, Downes, Lanzini, Benrahma, Bowen, Vlasic, Antonio

Zouma,

Subs: Areola, Randolph, Cresswell, Masuaku, Diop, Ogbonna, Ashby, Rice, Fornals, Coventry, Chesters, Muamba

started up front.

Starting the game in a high tempo in the blistering heat, new loan signing Tyrese Fornah stole the ball from West Ham with a tough tackle in midfield but couldn’t ignite a Reading attack after an overhit pass out wide to Ovie Ejaria.

A first big chance for the Hammers came when Jarrod Bowen broke into the box and pulled the ball back for Antonio, but Holmes managed to throw his body in the way to make a last ditch block.

Shane Long made his return in Ro West Ham tried to test Reading’s resolve but the hosts stayed compact when Andy Yiadom held his nerve with a patient piece of defending before nicking the ball from Ben Johnson.

But with both sides quickly tiring in the sweltering conditions, the half ended goalless with few chances created by either side.

With the second-half just six minutes old, the Irons scored the first goal of the contest.

REACTION

Royals ‘working hard’ to bolster squad ahead of new season

By JI-MIN LEE sport@wokingham.today

ASSISTANT manager Alex Rae says Reading FC are looking to add to their squad before the start of the 2022-23 season.

Speaking after Saturday’s 1-1 draw against West Ham, Rae expressed his satisfaction with the Royals’ performance.

Rae said: “I think it was a really good run out. It was different with the conditions, that gave the supporters the opportunity to see what we’ve got at the club at the moment.

“Once we get a few more through the door then we’ll be ready.”

Rae is hopeful Reading can sign trialist Sam Hutchinson, who put

in a positive display, backing up his showing against Benfica.

He continued: “He brings a level of professionalism and he’s vocal, he’s experienced and he’s fitted in brilliantly so hopefully everything falls into place for that one.”

“We need to have people who can play in multiple positions, if we can. You look at Tom (McIntyre), played centre back today, can play left back, played at Sheffield in the middle of the park.

“The more players who are equally as comfortable in various positions the better really because it gives you flexibility.”

Reading are currently without a recognised senior left-back, a position many fans have expressed concerns about.

With the start of the upcoming campaign just 14 days away, the Royals will be looking to recruit quickly.

“We’re constantly working as hard as we can. We’ve been offered several (left backs) and had (GuinessWalker) at left back today, we’ll have a look at him.

“We’ll have to keep knocking at the door to get the right one in. The important thing for us is not to dive in and get one that’s not really what we’re looking for.

“We have to keep pushing and try and keep the quality that does come in the door the highest level so that we have a chance to get to where we want to be.”

And with more friendlies to come, including yesterday’s against Wimbledon, Rae says the main goal will be to give players more minutes without picking up any injuries.

“You have to prepare properly. As much as you don’t want to lose any games, in pre-season it’s really about trying to get the minutes in.”

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HOLD HAMMERS TO A DRAW Meite finds the net to beat Areola

‘This is not the best of me, there’s more to come’

By JI-MIN LEE sport@wokingham.today READING FC’s Tyrese Fornah insists he has more to give, despite impressing on his first outing at the Select Car Leasing Stadium.

Dejan Tatek picks a pass Paul Ince

Reading v West Ham United New signing Jeff Hendrick on display

oyals colours for the first time in over a decade Pictures: Steve Smyth

Tom Ince holds off Ogbonna

After keeping the ball for a considerable period of time with some neat passing, Nikola Vlasic got on the end of Bowen’s cross to nod the ball into the corner past Joe Lumley.

Reading came close to an instant response when Tom Ince drove down the left and hung up a cross for Lucas Joao, but Alphonse Areola was able to clutch the ball after a tame header.

The next chance came for Pablo Fornals when he tricked his way into the box, but Hutchinson got his frame in the way to protect his goalkeeper.

Summer signing Lumley made Andy Yiadom strikes at goal

an excellent fingertip save to keep out Bowen after the England international opened up his body to try and pick out the left corner.

Another England international on display, Declan Rice, came inches away from grabbing a second for West Ham when he worked space for a drive at goal which smacked the inside of the post and stayed out.

Reading responded with 68 minutes on the clock when Meite pounced from close range to convert from McIntyre’s cross on the half volley to level the match.

Meite continued to make a bright impression as he tried to fling himself on the end of Femi Azeez’ cross.

Reading thought they had snatched a win in the 86th minute when Meite got in behind the Hammers defence and drilled the ball through Areola’s legs, but he was denied by a marginal offside decision.

Long showed a turn of pace to bear down on goal before he was tripped on the edge of the box which brought Reading an inviting free-kick in the 90th minute, but Meite’s effort was deflected wide by the wall

AFC WIMBLEDON 0-2 READING

MEITE AND HENDRICK NET AS ROYALS CLAIM CAPITAL VICTORY READING FC continued their promising pre-season form with victory away to AFC Wimbledon on Tuesday night.

Goals from Yakou Meite and Jeff Hendrick either side of half-time proved the difference as the Royals came away 2-0 winners.

On a night where Reading’s goal was left untroubled for long periods, Dean Bouzanis made a name for himself in his debut with a penalty save midway through the second-half.

The 691 travelling fans at the new Plough Lane would have left satisfied by

their side’s performance.

New signing Shane Long did not make the trip to London after picking up a knock in Saturday’s match against West Ham. Reading started the brighter of the two sides, finding joy down Wimbledon’s left side. Good combination play between Andy Yiadom and Ince led to an early sighter for Ejaria.

Meite who was able to bring the ball down and fire into the bottom right corner to open the scoring.

Ince would have been happy with how his side controlled the battle in the middle of the park

in the first 45 minutes, perhaps feeling that the extra man could be better-utilised in a more advanced position.

Meite and Ince adopted wide positions on the left and right respectively, with Joao adopting his solo forward position once again.

Wimbledon were awarded a penalty against the run of play after former Royal Alex Pearce was fouled.

Zach Robinson went to the keeper’s left, but Bouzanis guessed correctly to keep the strike out.

A period of possession in front of the Wimbledon defence led to a

half-opening for Ejaria, who instead passed to Hendrick on the edge of the box. The Irishman unleashed a fierce strike, which beat Broome to his bottom right and found the back of the net.

Reading continued to pile on the pressure, with Yasin Ben El Mhanni latching onto a poor Wimbledon clearance. The trialist curling effort just went past the wrong side of the post.

The Dons applied some late pressure, but some last ditch defending and a reflex Bouzanis save were enough to preserve the clean sheet.

The midfielder looked composed in the hour he was given, protecting the ball effectively and starting attacks.

Fornah joined the Royals on loan from Nottingham Forest two weeks ago.

Speaking after the game, he said: “All of the boys, from first half to second half, we gave it our all. Even though it’s pre-season, we had the idea to try and win.”

The 22-year-old linked up well with fellow loan signing Jeff Hendrick in the centre of the park.

Fornah hopes the performance can be the start of a fruitful relationship.

“We both came back a bit late from preseason but just getting the minutes in our legs and building our understanding in training and obviously in the games,” he said.

“It was good today, obviously he’s an experienced player so just to learn from him, play with him in midfield and get used to him and the team, it’s been great.

“It’s just about building relationships. I’ve only been in the building for under two weeks so I’m getting used to it and building my sharpness; this is not the best of me, there’s more to come.”

Fornah enjoyed a brief spell with the Royals as an academy player.

Through loans at Casa Pia, Plymouth and Shrewsbury, he gained experience playing in the men’s game.

He said: “When you’re a bit tense, you don’t play your game, so I just want to enjoy my football and learn from the gaffer, Alex Rae and the coaching staff, and just give the best account of myself.”

Born in Canning Town, East London, Fornah describes manager Paul Ince as the area’s ‘poster boy’.

“We’re both East London lads so I can relate to him,” he explained.

“What he’s done in his career, coming from the same area as well - he’s the poster boy.

“Everyone wanted to be like Paul Ince, so for me to have him as a gaffer for a year, he’s going to build my game up so much and I’m just so happy to be here.”

Tyrese Fornah has impressed since signing on loan from Nottingham Forest. Picture: Steve Smyth

24 | SPORT

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Our Woodley showroom is open 7 days a week

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READING FC

LONG AWAITED RETURN: SHANE IS BACK Long gets forward for the Royals

By Ji-Min Lee sport@wokingham.today READING FC have secured the services of Shane Long on a oneyear deal.

The free agent returns 11 years after an initial six-year spell with the Berkshire club.

Murmurs of a potential return emerged earlier this summer as Long ran down his contract at Southampton.

The Saints announced he had left on Friday, July 1.

The Irishman initially joined Reading from Cork City in 2005, with compatriot Kevin Doyle making the same move.

The club achieved a record 106 Championship points in his first season, with Long adopting a peripheral role.

He went on to make his name as a prolific striker, scoring 54 goals in 203 appearances.

Long netted 21 league goals in his final season with Reading, helping Brian McDermott’s side reach the 2011 play-off finals.

After falling to Swansea at Wembley, Premier League interest intensified and ultimately saw Long leave for West Brom.

Since then, the forward has become a top-flight mainstay for West Brom, Hull and Southampton.

Long also established himself as a fixture in the Republic of Ireland’s national side, amassing 88 appearances.

His 17 goals make him his country’s seventh top goalscorer.

In 2019, Long recorded the fastest goal in Premier League

IN the KL, MEBC travelled to Maidenhead Thicket.

They suffered a setback, losing away against a strong Maidenhead Thicket team.

54-73 shots and 2-12 on points.

Rink scores, 14-19, 14-12, 14-25, 12-17. Skips were Mark Hiley, Mike Fraser, Martin Lewis and Keith Hawkins.

In OTL, MEBC hosted Goring and Almshouses.

A strong showing by MEBC saw wins on three rinks and a draw on the fourth.

Points were 12¾-1¼ and shots 91-43. Individual rinks 306, 19-10, 14-14, 28-13 and skips were Mike Fraser, Mike Lewis, Ken Cheshire and Chris Fellows.

In KLV-A, MEBC hosted

FOOTBALL Pre-season friendlies Reading 1-1 West Ham United Flackwell Heath 1-1 Binfield Reading City 0-4 Thatcham Town Sumas 1-1 Marlow

Home Counties Division 2 Horspath (207-9) drew Wargrave (195-9)

Shane Long made his return on Saturday against West Ham

Long in action against the Hammers history, scoring after just 7.69 seconds against Watford.

The move will delight Royals fans, many of whom have taken to social media in recent weeks to express their excitement.

Long was unable to feature in the club’s 150th anniversary match, which took place the day before the final day of the Premier League season.

However, the former number nine addressed fans through a video message.

“My first season over here with Reading, we managed to finish the season with 106 points and get promoted to the Premier League.

Been through it all, got relegated two years later and the play-off final years down the line,” Long said.

“I have nothing but fond memories of the club, fond memories of the lads, a great set of players over my seven years at the club and we still want [the club] to have success in the future.”

Head of Football Operations, Mark Bowen, said: “When he first arrived at this club, very few fans will have known anything about Shane Long.

“But now, he needs absolutely no introduction to Royals supporters.

“A return to the club where it all

WOKINGHAM BOUNCE BACK WITH EMPHATIC HOME VICTORY Maiden Erlegh Bowls Club

Saturday, July 16

CRICKET Home Counties Premier Division 1 Finchampstead (230 all out) lost to Wokingham (233-7)

BOWLS

By Staff Writer sport@wokingham.today

RESULTS

Twyford in a friendly match.

MEBC beat Twyford by 8-2 points and 73-32 shots. Rinks 31-8, 28-7, 14-17. Skips were Mike Fraser, Mike Lewis and Keith Hawkins.

In KLV-C, MEBC hosted Wokingham. In a tightly fought match MEBC narrowly won on two rinks and drew the third, to win 9-1 on points and 57-52 shots.

The team was supported by two new bowlers, playing for the club for the first time.

Individual rinks were 18-16, 20-17, 19-19 and skips Ray Pontet, Neil Monham and John Peacock.

In KLV-B, MEBC travelled to Hurst. In hot conditions, it was a successful visit for MEBC, winning on two of the three rinks, and overall. 8-2 points, 67-40 shots. Individual rinks 30-6, 24-18, 13-16. Skips Keith

Boulter, Robert Spencer, Frank Parkinson.

Wokingham Bowls Club Following the disappointment of losing 0-14 away to Reading on July 5, Wokingham ‘A’ bounced back with an emphatic 14-0 win at home to Royal Household on July 12.

After 10 games of the 14game season, Wokingham ‘A’ sit a credible 4th in the Division 1 East.

Prospect Park Bowls Club In the KL, Prospect were defeated by Trenthams who look favourites to take the title.

The KLV A team beat Tilehurst B and Prospect B team beat Trentham B on their turf.

began for Shane has been rumoured for a number of years, so I am delighted to have made that rumour a reality.”

Royals boss Paul Ince said, “The arrival of Shane is something of a football fairytale for Reading fans.

“But make no mistake about it – he is coming into the dressing room purely on the merits of what he can offer this squad out on the pitch.

“Experience, energy, leadership, desire and a natural instinct you need to score goals… Shane will be an important addition to the group we are patiently trying to build and grow.”

CRICKET

Berkshire to host reigning champions Oxfordshire BERKSHIRE play reigning champions Oxfordshire in a three-day NCCA Championship Western Division 1 game at Finchampstead starting on Sunday.

They could also clash in the NCCA Trophy final after being kept apart in the semi-finals to be played on August 7, when holders Berks will take on Dorset at Finchampstead.

Earlier this month, Berks hammered Dorset by 319 runs in the Championship – one of their biggest wins ever.

They bounced back to defeat Devon by seven wickets in the Trophy last weekend with Oli Soames, the former Finchampstead and Hampshire player, hitting 99.

At the same time, Berkshire were coasting through their semi-final against Wales NC at the Falkland club, winning by 58 runs.

The Wokingham all-rounder made a competition-best 75 from 80 balls and lifted Berkshire to 278 all out with excellent support from two of the county’s talented young brigade.

He and Rhodri Lewis (39) added 66 for the sixth wicket and then Jafer Chohan weighed in with 48 from 43 balls in a seventh-wicket partnership of 81.

BCM Championship Crowthorne & Crown Wood (155 all out) beat Braywood (143 all out) Ley Hill (278-7) lost to Shinfield (282-9) West Reading (124 all out) lost to Penn & Tylers Green (174 all out)

Thames Valley Division 5B Sonning 2s (235-7) drew Finchampstead 4s (295-6) Bagshot 2s (236 all out) lost to Binfield 2s (269-9) Reading 2s (182 all out) beat Purley on Thames 2s (58 all out) Eversley 2s (228 all out) lost to Bracknell (232-6)

Sunday, July 17

CRICKET Home Counties Women’s Division 1 Chesham v Binfield Finchampstead v St Albans

FIXTURES

Saturday, July 23

FOOTBALL Pre-season friendlies Reading v Brighton Binfield v Ascot United Reading City v Frimley Green Tadley Calleva v Sandhurst Town Sumas v Woodley United

CMB Premiership Emmbrook and Bearwood (113-3) beat Denham (109 all out)

CRICKET Home Counties Premier Division 1 Finchampstead v Aston Rowant Oxford v Wokingham

Chilterns Division Two Knotty Green (182 all out) lost to Emmbrook and Bearwood 2s (184-7)

Home Counties Premier Division 2 Wargrave v Great Brickhill

BCL Premier Division Farley Hill (174 all out) beat West Reading 2s (165 all out) Mortimer West End (290-7) beat Waltham St Lawrence (130 all out) Sandhurst (214-7) beat Goring on Thames (87 all out) Shinfield 2s (142-8) beat Welford Park (141-9) BCL Division 1A Checkendon (337-6) beat West Reading 3s (169 all out) Reading Lions (208 all out) beat Stallions (139 all out) Reading United (267 all out) lost to Berkshire Royals (270-3) Silchester (286 all out) beat Earley (244 all out) Thames Valley Division 1 Stoke Green (219 all out) lost to Eversley (288-9) Thames Valley Division 2B Slough 2s (264-6) beat Reading (262-5) Binfield (275-7) beat Sulhamstead & Ufton (209-6) Hurst (214-6) drew Cove (287-6) Wokingham 2s (161-9) drew Finchampstead 2s (199-8) Thames Valley Division 3A White Waltham (336-6) beat Windsor (332-5dec) Wargrave 2s (151 all out) lost to Sonning (156-1) Theale & Tilehurst (132-4) beat Thatcham Town (128 all out) Thames Valley Division 4A Purley on Thames (254 all out) drew Wokingham 3s (218-3) Finchampstead 3s (220 all out) lost to Henley 3s (221-3)

BCM Championship Crowthorne & Crown Wood v West Reading Shinfield v Braywood CMB Premiership Monks Risborough v Emmbrook and Bearwood Chilterns Division Two Emmbrook and Bearwood 2s v Penn & Tylers Green 2s BCL Premier Division Stratfield Turgis v Shinfield 2s Welford Park v Sandhurst West Reading 2s v Woodcote BCL Division 1A Earley v Reading Lions Peppard Stoke Row 2s v Berkshire Royals West Reading 3s v Reading United Thames Valley Division 1 Ickenham v Eversley Thames Valley Division 2B Wokingham 2s v Flett Royal Ascot v Hurst Cove v Binfield Reading v Finchampstead 2s Thames Valley Division 3A Theale & Tilehurst v Aldershot Kidmore End v Wargrave 2s Sonning v Harpsden Bagshot v White Waltham Thames Valley Division 4A Falkland 2s v Finchampstead 3s Wokingham 3s v Peppard Stoke Row Thames Valley Division 5B Eversley 2s v Reading 2s Binfield 2s v Sonning 2s Finchampstead 4s v Royal Ascot 2s Newbury v Bracknell

LEISURE | 25

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Thursday, July 21, 2022 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

LIVEMUSIC RaW Sounds Today Chris Hillman

www.bit.ly/raw sounds today

A

FTER a week like this, there are plenty of us who need to take a deep breath… so here’s one you can listen to.

Heading up this week’s hit parade is A Better Life with a track from their great album of the same name.

The RaW Sounds Today playlist is on a mission to champion and showcase great music from acts that have a connection to Reading and Wokingham (that’s the RaW in our Sounds Today name).

We’ve got 10 fantastic tracks for you to enjoy as part of this, an eclectic mix of stuff that will help you discover something new. All you have to do is find it on Spotify.

To hear this week’s selection, simply head to https://bit.ly/rawsoundstoday and enjoy the music.

There is also a Facebook page and group chat that

To advertise in this section, call Claire on 0118 327 2662 bands and music fans can tap into. You can search for RaW Sounds Today and it will come up.

A Better Life – Take A Deep Breath This title track of A Better Life’s 2021 album has just been released as a new single and video.

Local producer and musician Phil Daniels, who heads up the electronica collective, says that this will be the last single released from the album as he and his talented collaborators have been working on some new material.

We’ll look forward to hearing that and in the meantime why not take the time to take a deep breath, chill out and relax to their wonderful album – https://abetterlifemusic.com/

The Telephones – Pale Saints Here’s a song from the new album by Derbybased psychedelic pop rockers, The Telephones.

It’s from their new album, Prosaic Turbulence, that has just been released on Billywitch Records, the offshoot of Wokingham-based, Mega Dodo Records.

It’s an album of melodic psych pop with a 60s West Coast feel as vocal harmonies combine with jangly guitar to produce another very good addition to the expanding Mega Dodo / Billywitch catalogue – https://www.facebook.com/TheTelephonesUK

Kindred Spirit Band – Kindred Spirit

Phantom Booth – Blind Emotion

We go back in time with this song from Kindred Spirit’s 2015 album, Phoenix Rising as they will be making a welcome return to Wokingham Festival in August – https://www.facebook.com/ KindredSpiritBand

This Reading band describe their second single as ‘a cheerful bittersweet bop’ and it certainly is.

Wonderful melodic indie! They are live in Reading in September 29 at Heavy Pop’s Roseate Sessions – https://linktr.ee/phantombooth

Nora Mac – Dropping Out of Love

Char – Control

Nora Mac is a talented singer-songwriter from Marlow who will be at Wokingham Festival.

Her band there will include Dean Nelson from Generation Studios and Robin Johnson from Kyros guesting with her – https://noramacmusic.com/

Char’s pop/R&B style has already got her noticed

by Kiss FM and the BBC so we’ll look forward to seeing her at Wokingham Festival on Saturday, August 27.

This song is from the Simpler Times EP that Char released last year – https://linktr.ee/CHARmusic

Lonely Robot – Recalibrating Reading-based producer, musician, vocalist and songwriter John Mitchell releases A Model Life, his fifth album under the Lonely Robot name, on August 26, and Recalibrating is the excellent first single from it – https://johnmitchellhq.com

Third Lung – Lo-Hi Here’s a single from this Reading band’s forthcoming debut album, Gameplay.

They have an album launch show at Sub89 on November 10, and will be at Wokingham Festival in August and at Loddfest in September – http://www. thirdlungband.com

Yaoki – Brand New Life They played their first-ever gig, opening the night, at Split the Dealer’s amazing Sub89 show recently and what a great gig it was. Here’s their first-ever single which combines melody and power – https:// www.facebook.com/YaokiBand

The Paradox Twin – Prism Descent They topped our Best of 2021 list and following an appearance on July 1, at the impressive Prog For Peart Charity event in Abingdon we are looking forward to their return to Wokingham Festival – https://www.theparadoxtwin.com/

GIG GUIDE Friday, July 22

BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF. Sugar and Sax. Details: 01344 303333.

PLAYHATCH – The Flowing Spring, Henley Road RG4 9RB. Logicaltramp. Details: 0118 969 98978.

READING – The Butler, Chatham Street RG1 7DS. Open Mic Night. Details: 0118 959 5500.

READING – O’Neill’s, Friar Street RG1 1DB. Live music Fridays. Details: 0118 960 6580.

READING – The Pitcher and Piano, Friar Street. Stars in their Minds Karaoke and disco.

READING – Playlist Live, Friar Street RG1 1EP. Friday Night Live requests.

Details: playlistlive.co.uk READING – The Rising Sun, Silver Street RG1 2ST. Brazilian Gypsy Fusion with Theo Mizú & Banda.

Details: 0118 986 6788.

READING – Sub89, Friar Street RG1 1EP. Guns II Roses. Details: 0118 959 5395.

EMMBROOK – Emmbrook Sports & Social, Lowther Road RG41 1JB. Wokingham Music Club presents Kossoff… The Band Plays On. Details: www. wokinghammusicclub. co.uk YATTENDON – West Berkshire Brewery Tap Room, The Old Dairy, Frisham Farm RG18 0XT. Friday night sessions.

Details: 01635 767090.

Saturday, July 23

BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF. Hubba Bubba. Details: 01344 303333.

EARLEY – The Seven Red Roses, Maiden Place RG6 3HA. Gary Roman as Elvis.

Details: 0118 935 4103.

HURST – Dinton Pastures, Davis Street RG10 0TH. Marvellous 2022: The Chicago Blus Brothers, Phil Collins No Jacket Required, One and Only Adele, UK Foo Fighters, The Rat Pack, Re-Take That and Robbie, Wild Boys. Details: www. marvelousfestivals.com PLAYHATCH – The Flowing Spring, Henley Road RG4 9RB. Totally Tina. Details: 0118 969 98978.

READING – The Butler, Chatham Street RG1 7DS. The Mythicals. Details: 0118 959 5500.

READING – Grosvenor Casino Reading, Rose Kiln Lane RG2 0SN. Totally Tina.

Details: 0118 402 7800.

READING – The Jolly Anglers, Kennetside. Fly Project.

From 5pm.

READING – Milk, Merchants Place. Lights Out with Keyboard Warrior DJs. READING – Mojito Beach Bar, The Oracle RG1 2AG. Los Dos Gringos. Details: www. theoracle.com READING – O’Neill’s, Friar Street RG1 1DB. Al Fresco Music. Details: 0118 960 6580.

READING – Playlist Live, Friar Street RG1 1EP. Britney Spears tribute act Bottomless Brunch.

3pm. Saturday Night Live requests. Details: playlistlive.co.uk READING – Prospect Park, Liebenrood Road RG30 2ND. Summer Love Festiva: Aswad, The Dualers, Tyler and Pete, General Levy, Kiko Bun, Reggae Roast. Details: summerlovereading.com READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. Reggae Sundays. Brother Strut Live. Details: 0118 959 7196.

READING – Revolution, Station Road. Revolution Saturdays: music, cocktails and more.

READING – Salisbury Conservative Club, Kings

Road RG1 4HX. Solace.

Details: 0118 926 5804.

READING – The Retreat, St John’s Street RG1 4EH. Cool Hand Luke and The Coolness. Details: 0118 376 9159.

TILEHURST – The Royal British Legion Club, Downing Road RG31 5BB. Full Flavour Band. Details: 0118 942 9606.

WHITCHURCH – Greyhound, High Street RG8 7EL. The Never Nevers. Details: 0118 984 1485.

WOKINGHAM – The Ship Inn, Peach Street RG40 1XH. Augusto Molina. Details: 0118 978 0389.

WOKINGHAM – The White Horse, Easthampstead Road RG40 3AF. Marmalade Live. From 3pm. Details: 0118 979 7402.

WOODLEY – Bull and Chequers, Woodley Green RG5 4QP. Anna Nightingale. Details: 0118 969 9756.

Sunday, July 24

BRACKNELL – South Hill Park, Ringmead RG12 7PA. Live music on the terrace. 2pm.

Wilde Sundays: Tomorrow Bird, Meddling Fox and Manna Ash. 2pm. Details: 01344 484123.

EARLEY – The Roebuck, Auckland Road RG6 1NY. Afternoon karaoke. 2pm.

Details: 0118 966 7153.

HURST – Dinton Pastures, Davis Street RG10 0TH. Marvellous 2022: How Sweet It Is, Flash, Platinum Abba, Definitely Mightbe, Oye Santana, Katy Perry, The Jam’d. Details: www. marvelousfestivals.com READING – The Blagrave Arms, Blagrave Street.

Miss Tina Bortion.

READING – Community Hall, Watlington House, Watlington Street RG1 4RJ. Readifolk presents: Terry Hiscock with Roger Trevitt. Details: www. readifolk.org.uk

READING – Prospect Park, Liebenrood Road. Raver Tots family-friendly outdoor festival 2022: advance booking essential, no tickets on the gate.

Details: www.ravertots. co.uk READING – Queens Head, Christchurch Road RG2 7AZ. Northern Soul Social Sunday. 2pm-5pm. Details: 0118 931 0232.

Tuesday, July 26

BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. New Music Tuesday. Details: www. theacousticcouch.co.uk STOKE ROW – Crooked Billet RG9 5PU. Take Five.

Details: 01491 681048.

Wednesday, July 27 READING – Veeno, Valpy Street RG1 1AR. Live & Love Music: Tom Martin, Albert Benton Jr, Paul Glover, Thomas Heppell.

7pm. Free. Details: 0118 950 5493.

Thursday, July 28

BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. The Cream of Hendrix. Details: www. theacousticcouch.co.uk EARLEY – Harley-Davidson, Wokingham Road RG6 8HN. Bottle Kids. Details: 0118 334 4300.

READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. Found Native. Details: 0118 959 7196.

READING – The Roseate, The Forbury. Heavy Pop presents The Roseate Sessions with Daughter of the Water and Buildings on Fire.

Friday, July 29

BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. Bacchanal. Details: theacousticcouch.co.uk BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF.

Vintage Sound Collective.

Details: 01344 303333.

GORING – Don Giovannii at The Leatherne Bottel, Bridleway RG8 0HS. Liza Marshall. Details: 01491 598622.

PLAYHATCH – The Flowing Spring, Henley Road RG4 9RB. Abba’s Angels.

Details: 0118 969 98978.

READING – The Blagrave Arms, Blagrave Street.

Sam Solace.

READING – The Butler, Chatham Street RG1 7DS. Open Mic Night. Details: 0118 959 5500.

READING – The Foresters Arms, Brunswick Street RG1 6NY. DJ Jacky D: Funk, Soul and Disco.

Details: 0118 304 3648.

READING – O’Neill’s, Friar Street RG1 1DB. Live music Fridays. Details: 0118 960 6580.

READING – The Pitcher and Piano, Friar Street. Stars in their Minds Karaoke and disco.

READING – Playlist Live, Friar Street RG1 1EP. Friday Night Live requests.

Details: playlistlive.co.uk READING – The Rising Sun, Silver Street RG1 2ST. Club Velocity presents The August List, Eat Daddy Eat, As Loud As A Mouse.

Details: 0118 986 6788.

WOKINGHAM – Broad Street Tavern, Broad Street RG40 1AU. 4G. Details: 0118 977 3706.

WOODLEY – Bull and Chequers, Woodley Green RG5 4QP. Ibiza Summer Dance Vibes. Details: 0118 969 9756.

YATTENDON – West Berkshire Brewery Tap Room, The Old Dairy, Frisham Farm RG18 0XT. Friday night sessions.

Details: 01635 767090.

Saturday, July 30

BINFIELD – The Binfield Club, Terrace Road RG42 4HP. The Shelf Side. Details: 01344 420690.

HOLDING A GIG, QUIZ OR GAMES NIGHT? SEND DETAILS TO EVENTS@WOKINGHAM.TODAY

BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. Reggae Fever. Details: heacousticcouch.co.uk BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF. Whitney Houston Collection. Details: 01344 303333.

BRACKNELL – The Royal Oak, London Road RG12 2NN. From The Ashes. Details: 01344 422622.

CHARVIL – The Wee Waif, Old Bath Road RG10 9RJ. Moon Hill presents karaoke and disco.

CROWTHORNE – The Crowthorne Inn, High Street RG45 7AD. The Cherries. Details: 01344 530615.

EARLEY – Earley Home Guard Social Club, Pitts Lane RG6 1BT. Nightrider. Details: 0118 926 5936.

PINGEWOOD – Lagoona Park RG30 3UH. Lakestock 2022: DJs and more.

Details: lakestock.co.uk READING – The Blagrave Arms, Blagrave Street.

Club FOD: monthly LGBTQ+ night.

READING – The Castle Tap, Castle Street RG1 7RJ. The Rainbow Barn Dance.

Details: 0118 958 0473.

READING – Grosvenor Casino Reading, Rose Kiln Lane RG2 0SN. Retro Karaoke.

Details: 0118 402 7800.

READING – The Jolly Anglers, Kennetside. Apache Sounds day party. From 2pm.

READING – The Monks Retreat, Friar Street.

School Disco for over 18s.

READING – O’Neill’s, Friar Street RG1 1DB. Al Fresco Music. Details: 0118 960 6580.

READING – Playlist Live, Friar Street RG1 1EP. Ibiza Classics Bottomless Brunch. 3pm. Saturday Night Live requests.

Details: playlistlive.co.uk READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1

2JR. L1nkn_p4rk: Hybrid Theory Special with The Final Clause of Tactitus.

The Scarlet Vixens: The Naughty 90s. Details: 0118 959 7196.

READING – Reading University Students Union, Whiteknights Campus RG6 6EH. Siren Craft Brew presents Time Hops. 2pm.

Details: tkts.me/tl/qwch READING – The Retreat, St John’s Street RG1 4EH. Jazz with Stuart Henderson, Simon Price and guests. 3.30pm.

Details: 0118 376 9159.

READING – Revolution, Station Road. Revolution Saturdays: music, cocktails and more.

READING – Salisbury Conservative Club, Kings Road RG1 4HX. Classic Tracks. Details: 0118 926 5804.

TILEHURST – The Royal British Legion Club, Downing Road RG31 5BB. Mystery Machine. Details: 0118 942 9606.

WHISTLEY GREEN – The Elephant and Castle, Lodge Road RG10 0EH. Abi Powell. Details: 0118 934 0886.

WHITLEY – Whitley Social

Club, Northumberland Avenue RH2 7QA. Plato and the Bees. Details: 0118 374 0052.

Sunday, July 31

BINFIELD – Peacock Farm, Peacock Lane RG12 8SS. Said and Done. Details: 01344 423481.

EARLEY – The Roebuck, Auckland Road RG6 1NY. Afternoon karaoke. 2pm.

Details: 0118 966 7153.

EVERSLEY – The Golden Pot, Reading Road RG27 0NB. Paul Tino. 3pm. Details: 0118 973 2104.

READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. Reggae Sundays. Details: 0118 959 7196.

READING – Queens Head, Christchurch Road RG2 7AZ. Northern Soul Social Sunday. 2pm-5pm. Details: 0118 931 0232.

READING – The Retreat, St John’s Street RG1 4EH. Jazz with Stuart Henderson, Simon Price and guests. Details: 0118 376 9159.

SONNING – The Mill at Sonning, Sonning Eye RG4 6TY. Sounds of the 70s with The Zoots Details: 0118 969 8000.

MARMALADE Live Music Saturday 23rd July 4pm - late Tickets £15 wegottickets.com THE WHITE HORSE Easthampstead Road Wokingham, RG40 3AF

0118 979 7402

26 | LEISURE

To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today

WHAT’SON Films at Reading Biscuit Factory

READING – The Biscuit Factory, Queens Walk RG1 7QE. They include Thor: Love and Thunder (12a). From Thurs 21. The Railway Children Return.

Thurs 21. Minions: The Rise of Gru (U). Thurs 21.

The Gray Man (15). Thurs 21. NT LIve: Prma acie (15).

Thurs 21, Wed 27. Where The Crawdads Sing (15).

Fri 22-Thurs 28.Details: readingbiscuitfactory.co.uk

Friday, July 22

BURGHFIELD – Burghfield Common Recreation Ground, Recreation Road RG7 3EN. The Bulging Sack In The Park: enjoy a drink with family and friends, and raise funds for Thames Valley Air Ambulance.

Food and drink available.

5pm-9pm. Details: burghfieldsantas.org.uk EARLEY – St Nicolas Church, Sutcliffe Avenue RG6 7JN. Re:Fresh cafe with Friendship Table. 10amnoon. linkvisiting.org READING – Abbey Ruins, Chestnut Walk. Progress Theatre presents Great Expectations by Charles Dickens. 7.30pm. Details: readingopenair.com READING – Reading Biscuit Factory, Broad Street Mall, RG1 7QE. Friday coffee morning with Depression Xpression.

11am-12.30pm. Details: www.facebook.com/ ReadingBiscuitFactory READING – Reading Minster, Chain Street RG1 2HX. A Classical Evening recital: Stephanie Hershaw soprano, George Ireland pianist. 7.30pm. £10. Details: Events@ readingminster.org.uk WOKINGHAM – Salvation Army, Sturge Road RG40 2HD. Cafe Refresh Friendship table.

10am-1.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org WOKINGHAM – Norreys Church, Norreys Avenue RG40 1UU. T&C at SHARE Wokingham Friendship table. 12.30pm-2.30pm.

Details: linkvisiting.org WOKINGHAM – St Paul’s Church Parish Rooms, Reading Road RG41 1EH. Coffee and Chat: a warm welcome, a listening ear and refreshments. 2pm4pm. Details: 0118 979 2122 or church.office@ spauls.co.uk.

WOOSEHILL – Acorn Community Centre, Fernlea Drive RG41 3DR. Acorn Cafe with Friendship table. 10.30am-noon.

Details: linkvisiting.org

Saturday, July 23

HURST – Dinton Pastures, Davis Street RG10 0TH. Marvellous 2022: The Chicago Blus Brothers, Phil Collins No Jacket Required, One and Only Adele, UK Foo Fighters, The Rat Pack, Re-Take That and Robbie, Wild Boys. Details: www. marvelousfestivals.com PADWORTH – Village Hall, Padworth Lane. Jumble sale. 2pm-3pm. Donations 10am-11.30am. In aid of

village hall.

READING – Abbey Ruins, Chestnut Walk. Progress Theatre presents Great Expectations by Charles Dickens. 7.30pm. Details: readingopenair.com READING – IKEA, Pincents Kiln Industrial Park, Pincent Lane RG31 7SD. Balloon artist and face painter for children. 11am5pm. Free. Details: www. ikea.com RISELEY – Wellington Country Park. Spectacular sports weekend with Reading FC, Riseley Tennis Club, Tic Tac Skate School and bouncy castles. 10am4pm. Some events weather dependent. Details: wellington countrypark. co.uk WOKINGHAM – St Paul’s Parish Rooms, Reading Road RG41 1EH. Wokingham Art Society 65th summer exhibition.

10am-5.30pm. Paintings, jewellery, ceramics, cards and more. Free parking, wheelchair accessible, refreshments available. Details: www. wokinghamartsociety. org.uk.

WOKINGHAM WITHOUT – Pinewood Bar and Cafe, Pinewood Leisure Centre, Old Wokingham Road RG40 3AQ. Friendship table available. 9am-4pm.

Details: linkvisiting.org WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents Saturday market. 9am3pm. Details: www. woodleytowncentre.co.uk WOODLEY – The Good Companions, Loddon Bridge Road RG5 4AG. Charity car wash in aid of Macmillan Cancer Care.

11am-2pm. £5 per car.

Details: 0118 969 3325.

WOOSEHILL – Woosehill Church, Chestnut Avenue RG41 3RS. Sip and Share with friendship table. 11am-noon, every second Saturday. Details: linkvisiting.org

Sunday, July 24

HURST – Dinton Pastures, Davis Street RG10 0TH. Marvellous 2022. Details: www.marvelousfestivals. com MORTIMER – West End Village Hall, Church Road RG7 2HZ. Family Treasure Trail and Woodland Walk.

Set off from 11am-1pm. £5 per team. Barbecue afterwards. Dogs on leads.

Wear suitable footwear.

Details: www.facebook. com/mwevillagehall READING – Forbury Gardens, The Forbury RG1 3BB. Forbury Bandstand concert season: Reading Community Gospel Choir.

3pm-4.30pm. Free. Details. whatsonreading.com READING – Phantom Brewery, The Haunt, Units 2-3, Meadow Road RG1 8LB. Vintage Bazaar at the Brewery. 1pm-6pm.

Free entry. Cash stalls, card bar. Details: www. phantombrew.com READING – Prospect Park, Liebenrood Road. Raver Tots family-friendly

outdoor festival 2022: advance booking essential, no tickets on the gate.

Includes garage, drum and bass, DJs including Brandon Block,s Paw Patrol meet and greet, fun fair, dance space, food and drink, face painting, glitter and licenced bar. Details: www.ravertots.co.uk RISELEY – Wellington Country Park. Spectacular sports weekend with Reading FC, Riseley Tennis Club, Tic Tac Skate School and bouncy castles.

10am-4pm. Some events weather dependent. Details: wellingtoncountrypark. co.uk WOKINGHAM – St Paul’s Parish Rooms, Reading Road RG41 1EH. Wokingham Art Society 65th summer exhibition.

10am-5.30pm. Paintings, jewellery, ceramics, cards and more. Free parking, wheelchair accessible, refreshments available. Details: www. wokinghamartsociety. org.uk.

WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents car boot sale. 8am-1pm. Cars £10, vans £15. Details: 07861 654674 or www. woodleytowncentre.co.uk WOODLEY – Bull and Chequers, Woodley Green RG5 4QP. Car boot sale and Macmillan coffee morning. 10am. Details: 0118 969 9756.

Monday, July 25

ARBORFIELD – Royal British Legion, Eversley Road RG2 9PR. Friendship table.

9.30am-11.30am. Details: linkvisiting.org CAVERSHAM – St Anne’s Primary School, Washington Road.

Churches Together Caversham presents Wonderzone! A sciencethemed summer holiday club for primary school children. 10am-3pm.

Includes crafts, music, sports and circus skills with a Christian ethos. £25, financial help available for those who need it.

Booking essential. Details: holidayclub.caversham@ yahoo.co.uk COLEY – All Nations Christian Centre, Berkeley Avenue.

Mega Makers Bible Holiday Club. 10am-12.15pm.

For primary School aged children. Details: www. allnationselim.org/events/ holiday-club READING – Abbey Ruins, Chestnut Walk. Progress Theatre presents Great Expectations by Charles Dickens. 7.30pm. Details: readingopenair.com READING – Reading Central Library, Abbey Square RG1 3BQ. Drag queen Story Hour UK for families.

10.30am. Details: 0118 937 5103.

TILEHURST – Library, School Road RG31 5AS. Rhymetime for under fives. 9.45am-10.15am, 10.45am-11.15am.

Booking essential, free.

Drag queen Story Hour UK for families. 2pm. Details: 0118 937 5109.

WOKINGHAM – St Paul’s Parish Rooms, Reading Road RG41 1EH. Wokingham Art Society

65th summer exhibition.

10am-5.30pm. Paintings, jewellery, ceramics, cards and more. Details: www. wokinghamartsociety. org.uk.

WOKINGHAM – Salvation Army, Sturges Road RG40 2HD. Cafe Refresh Friendship table.

10am-1.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org WOKINGHAM – Norreys Church, Norreys Avenue RG40 1UU. T&C at SHARE Wokingham Friendship table. 12.30pm-2.30pm.

Details: linkvisiting.org WOODLEY – Woodley Baptist Church, Hurricane Way RG5 4UX. Four Seasons cafe Friendship Table. 1.30pm-3.30pm.

Details: linkvisiting.org

Tuesday, July 26

CAVERSHAM – St Anne’s Primary School, Washington Road.

Churches Together Caversham presents Wonderzone! A sciencethemed summer holiday club for primary school children. 10am-3pm.

Includes crafts, music, sports and circus skills with a Christian ethos. £25, financial help available for those who need it.

Booking essential. Details: holidayclub.caversham@ yahoo.co.uk CAVERSHAM – Library, Church Street RG4 8AU. Rhymetime for under fives. 10.15-10.45am, or 11.15am-11.45am.

Booking essential, free.

Details: 0118 937 5103.

COLEY – All Nations Christian Centre, Berkeley Avenue.

Mega Makers Bible Holiday Club. 10am-12.15pm.

For primary School aged children. Details: www. allnationselim.org/events/ holiday-club EARLEY – Earley CResCent Resource Centre, Warbler Drive RG6 4HB. Friendship table. 2pm-3pm. Details: linkvisiting.org.

FINCHAMPSTEAD – FBC Centre Cafe, Gorse Ride North RG40 4ES. Friendship table. 10amnoon. Details: linkvisiting. org READING – Abbey Ruins, Chestnut Walk. Progress Theatre presents Great Expectations by Charles Dickens. 7.30pm. Details: readingopenair.com READING – Reading Central Library, Abbey Square RG1 3BQ. Rhymetime for under fives. 10.30-11am. Booking essential, free. Details: 0118 937 5103.

SOUTHCOTE – Community Hub, Coronation Square RG3 3QP. Drag queen Story Hour UK for families.

2pm. Details: 0118 937 5109.

WHITLEY – Library, South Reading Community Hub, Northumberland Avenue RG2 7QA. Drag queen Story Hour UK for families.

10.30am. Details: 0118 937 5109.

WOKINGHAM – St Paul’s Parish Rooms, Reading Road RG41 1EH. Wokingham Art Society 65th summer exhibition.

10am-5.30pm. Paintings, jewellery, ceramics, cards and more. Free parking, wheelchair accessible, refreshments

available. Details: www. wokinghamartsociety. org.uk.

WOKINGHAM – Bradbury Centre, Wokingham Methodist Church, Rose Street RG40 1XS. CLASP Wokingham cafe with Friendship table.

10am-noon. Every third and fourth Tuesday of the month. Details: linkvisiting. org WOKINGHAM WITHOUT – Pinewood Bar and Cafe, Pinewood Leisure Centre, Old Wokingham Road RG40 3AQ. Friendship table available. 9am-4pm.

Details: linkvisiting.org WOOLHAMPTON – The Rowbarge, Station Road RG7 5SH. Mikron Theatre Company presents Red Sky at Night. 7pm. Details: https://mikron.org.uk/ Wednesday, July 27 BURGHFIELD – The Cunning Man, Burghfield Road RG30 3RB. Mikron Theatre presents Raising Agents: 100 years of the Women’s Institute. Pay what you feel collection after the show. 7pm.

Details: https://mikron.org. uk/shows CAVERSHAM – St Anne’s Primary School, Washington Road.

Churches Together Caversham presents Wonderzone! A sciencethemed summer holiday club for primary school children. 10am-3pm.

Includes crafts, music, sports and circus skills with a Christian ethos. £25, finanical help available for those who need it.

Booking essential. Details: holidayclub.caversham@ yahoo.co.uk COLEY – All Nations Christian Centre, Berkeley Avenue.

Mega Makers Bible Holiday Club. 10am-12.15pm.

For primary School aged children. Details: www. allnationselim.org/events/ holiday-club EARLEY – Brookside Church, Brookside Close RG6 7HG. Open Door cafe with Friendship Table. 2pm4pm. Details: linkvisiting. org READING – Abbey Ruins, Chestnut Walk. Progress Theatre presents Great Expectations by Charles Dickens. 7.30pm. Details: readingopenair.com WOKINGHAM – St Paul’s Parish Rooms, Reading Road RG41 1EH. Wokingham Art Society 65th summer exhibition.

10am-5.30pm. Paintings, jewellery, ceramics, cards and more. Details: www. wokinghamartsociety. org.uk.

WOKINGHAM – Bradbury Centre, Wokingham Methodist Church, Rose Street RG40 1XS. Cafe Mosiac with Friendship table. 11am-noon. Details: linkvisiting.org WOKINGHAM – Salvation Army, Sturge Road RG40 2HD. Cafe Refresh Friendship table.

10am-1.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents Artisan market. 9am2pm. Details: www. woodleytowncentre.co.uk

Thursday, July 28

CAVERSHAM – St Anne’s Primary School, Washington Road.

Churches Together Caversham presents Wonderzone! A sciencethemed summer holiday club for primary school children. 10am-3pm.

Booking essential. Details: holidayclub.caversham@ yahoo.co.uk COLEY – All Nations Christian Centre, Berkeley Avenue.

Mega Makers Bible Holiday Club. 10am-12.15pm.

For primary School aged children. Details: www. allnationselim.org/events/ holiday-club EARLEY – Harley-Davidson, Wokingham Road RG6 8HN. Bike night from 5pm.

Details: 0118 334 4300.

EARLEY – Trinity Church, Chalfont Close RG6 5HZ. Re:Fresh with Friendship Table. 2pm-4pm. Details: linkvisiting.org READING – Abbey Ruins, Chestnut Walk. Progress Theatre presents Great Expectations by Charles Dickens. 7.30pm. Details: readingopenair.com READING – The Biscuit Factory, Queens Walk RG1 7QE. Stand and Deliver comedy club. Over 18s only. £8. 7pm Details: readingbiscuitfactory.co.uk READING – Reading Central Library, Abbey Square RG1 3BQ. Rhymetime for under fives. 10.15-10.45am, or 11.15am-11.45am.

Booking essential, free.

Details: 0118 937 5103.

SPENCERS WOOD – Village Hall. One-off comedy: Mat Wills, Michael Hackett and others. 7.30pm.

Adults only. Details: readingcomedy.eventbrite. co.uk SPENCERS WOOD – Spencers Wood Pavilion, Clares Green Road RG7 1DY. Social Seniors Tea and Coffee with Friendship Table. 10am-noon. Details: linkvisiting.org SOUTHCOTE – Community Hub, Coronation Square RG3 3QP. Rhymetime for under fives. 9.45am10.15am. Booking essential, free. Details: 0118 937 5109.

TILEHURST – Library, School Road RG31 5AS. Rhymetime for under fives.

2.15pm-2.45pm. Booking essential, free. Details: 0118 937 5109.

WOKINGHAM – Bradbury Centre, Wokingham Methodist Church, Rose Street RG40 1XS. Cafe Mosaic lunch club with Friendship table.

Noon-1.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org WOKINGHAM – St Paul’s Parish Rooms, Reading Road RG41 1EH. Wokingham Art Society 65th summer exhibition.

10am-5.30pm. Paintings, jewellery, ceramics, cards and more. Details: www. wokinghamartsociety. org.uk.

Friday, July 29

BURGHFIELD – Burghfield Common Recreation Ground, Recreation Road RG7 3EN. The Bulging Sack In The Park: enjoy a drink with family and friends, and raise funds for Thames Valley Air Ambulance.

WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, July 21, 2022 Food and drink available.

5pm-9pm. Details: burghfieldsantas.org.uk CAVERSHAM – St Anne’s Primary School, Washington Road.

Churches Together Caversham presents Wonderzone! A sciencethemed summer holiday club for primary school children. 10am-3pm.

Details: holidayclub. caversham@yahoo.co.uk EARLEY – St Nicolas Church, Sutcliffe Avenue RG6 7JN. Re:Fresh cafe with Friendship Table. 10amnoon. linkvisiting.org READING – Abbey Ruins, Chestnut Walk. Progress Theatre presents Great Expectations by Charles Dickens. 7.30pm. Details: readingopenair.com WOKINGHAM – St Paul’s Parish Rooms, Reading Road RG41 1EH. Wokingham Art Society 65th summer exhibition.

10am-8pm. Paintings, jewellery, ceramics, cards and more. Details: www. wokinghamartsociety. org.uk.

WOKINGHAM – Salvation Army, Sturges Road RG40 2HD. Cafe Refresh Friendship table.

10am-1.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org WOKINGHAM – Norreys Church, Norreys Avenue RG40 1UU. T&C at SHARE Wokingham Friendship table. 12.30pm-2.30pm.

Details: linkvisiting.org WOKINGHAM – St Paul’s Church Parish Rooms, Reading Road RG41 1EH. Coffee and Chat: a warm welcome, a listening ear and refreshments. 2pm4pm. Details: 0118 979 2122 or church.office@ spauls.co.uk.

WOOSEHILL – Acorn Community Centre, Fernlea Drive RG41 3DR. Acorn Cafe with Friendship table. 10.30am-noon.

Details: linkvisiting.org

Saturday, July 30

READING – Abbey Ruins, Chestnut Walk. Progress Theatre presents Great Expectations by Charles Dickens. 7.30pm. Details: readingopenair.com READING – Abbey Gateway, The Forbury. Abbey Gateway Rooftop TourAbbey Gateway Rooftop Tour. 2pm. £15, maximum 15 per tour.

No step-free access, uneven steps and floors.

Details: https://www. readingmuseum.org.uk READING – The Castle Tap, Castle Street RG1 7RJ. The Rainbow Barn Dance, hosted by Big Jay. 7pm11.30pm. Details: 0118 958 0473.

READING – IKEA, Pincents Kiln Industrial Park, Pincent Lane RG31 7SD. Balloon artist and face painter for children. 11am5pm. Free. Details: www. ikea.com READING – Prospect Park, Liebenrood Road. Car boot sale. Sellers from 6am. Buyers from 7.30am. £10 car, £12 van. Details: 07773 539172.

READING – Reading University Students Union, Whiteknights Campus RG6 6EH. Siren Craft Brew presents Time Hops: a

celebration of hops with live music and street food.

From 2pm. Details: tkts. me/tl/qwch RISELEY – Wellington Country Park, Odiham Road. Summer crafts and bouncy castles. Details: wellingtoncountrypark. co.uk SONNING – Berkshire County Sports Club, Sonning Lane. Round Reading Ultra Marathon – a 50k run round Reading. Starting between 7am and 9am.

Details: www.rrun.co.uk WOKINGHAM – Elms Field.

Sunny Saturdays: The Blue Sky Big Band. 11am-1pm.

WOKINGHAM – St Paul’s Parish Rooms, Reading Road RG41 1EH. Wokingham Art Society 65th summer exhibition.

10am-5.30pm. Paintings, jewellery, ceramics, cards and more. Details: www. wokinghamartsociety. org.uk.

WOKINGHAM WITHOUT – Pinewood Bar and Cafe, Pinewood Leisure Centre, Old Wokingham Road RG40 3AQ. Friendship table available. 9am-4pm.

Details: linkvisiting.org WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents Saturday market. 9am3pm. Details: www. woodleytowncentre.co.uk WOOSEHILL – Woosehill Church, Chestnut Avenue RG41 3RS. Sip and Share with friendship table.

11am-noon. Details: linkvisiting.org

Sunday, July 31

CAVERSHAM – Waitrose, Prospect Street.

Caversham artisan market.10am-3pm.

READING – Forbury Gardens, The Forbury RG1 3BB. Forbury Bandstand concert season: Take Note.

3pm-4.30pm. Free. Details.

Whatsonreading.com READING – The Grumpy Goat, Smelly Alley (Union Street). Beer club: discover new releases.

6.30pm-10pm. Booking essential. Details: www. thegrumpygoat.co.uk READING – Town Hall, Blagrave Street RG1.

Reading Vintage Kilo Sale.

11am-5pm. £2-£3, under 12s free. Details: Search Facebook for more.

RISELEY – Wellington Country Park, Odiham Road. Summer crafts and bouncy castles. Details: wellingtoncountrypark. co.uk WOKINGHAM – Elms Field playground, Elms Road. Bottom’s Dream: the story of Bottom from Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream suitable for all the family.

10am-11.15am.

WOKINGHAM – St Paul’s Parish Rooms, Reading Road RG41 1EH. Wokingham Art Society 65th summer exhibition. 10am5.30pm. Details: www. wokinghamartsociety. org.uk.

WOODLEY – 2nd Woodley Scout HQ, Vauxhall Drive RG5 4EA. Flea market: toys, games, DVDs, books, kitchenware and more.

9.30am-2.30pm. Details: 0118 969 9885.

No. 5423

Your weekly puzzle challenge

27

To advertise, call 0118 327 2662

Thursday, July 21, 2022 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

TO ADVERTISE ON THIS PAGE, CALL CLAIRE ON: 0118 327 2662

Quiz Challenge

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1. Where would you find the international vehicle registration GBA? 2. What is the meaning of the French cookery term ‘en croûte’?

3. The binding edge of a book is better known as its what?

4. Which singer partnered George Michael in the UK No 1 hit song Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me? 5. Actress Sienna Miller has been closely associated with which style of fashion?

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NONAGRAM

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ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ 1

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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

ARCANE HOME HUMOUR

N Y N 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: 18 Good; 21 Very Good; 25 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.

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7. Which English county hosts the Glastonbury Festival?

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8. ‘After all, tomorrow is another day’ is the ending of which novel set during the American Civil War?

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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.

ER

EQUALISER 12 5 6 1 2 3 4 13 7 2 1 2

2 5

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9 1 4 7 8 6 2 9

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DOWN 2. Look in the joint (4) 3. Place to keep stray currency? (5) 4. Not in favour once more over the way (7) 5. To the point and saying little (5) 6. Admitted we’ll do a medley (7) 7. Typical error? (8) 11. Nothing to tie symbol of affection (4-4) 13. Dull ringing sound coming from the floor (7) 14. Pierced a revolutionary leader in haste (7) 16. Part of step over yonder is eroded (5) 17. Large cask is found on the north African coast (5) 18. Swinging from part of an armchair? (4)

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This puzzle page is supplied by Sirius Media Services Ltd.

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© Sirius Media Services Ltd

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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.

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

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QUICK 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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ACROSS 1. The plane that crashed was a jumbo! (8) 6. Large number Mary organised (4) 8. Polenta removed from damaged Fallopian tube in one’s leg (6) 9. Enjoy spicy food (6) 10. Ass has a job that is drudgery (6-4) 12. Shape for a floor covering (6) 14. I’d make notes about the track (6) 15. Improvement from gambler with books about the Middle East (10) 19. A French male dies for ladies’ clothing (6) 20. Off hurried the detectives (6) 21. Beastly type of party? (4) 22. Make new plans when gender is altered (8)

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Each row and each column must contain the numbers 1 to 9, and so must each 3 x 3 box.

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10. Which wood comes from the bombax tree?

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 K through openings in the walls. The A first letter may appear in any chamber.

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9. What is the county flower of Norfolk?

SUDOKU

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WORD PYRAMID: Heartbreak Hotel.

EQUALISER: Clockwise from top left – subtract; multiply; divide; add. Total: 10.

SOLUTIONS

6 2 9 7 5 4 8 3 1

Easy

1

6. Liverpool Football Club won the 2022 FA Cup Final on penalties. What was the penalty score?

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CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

PZ1P5423

CROSS CODE

5423

ACROSS 1. Call to appear (7) 8. Family (7) 9. Non-Jew (7) 10. Moulded (7) 11. Certificate of proof of will (7) 14. Sphere (3) 16. Before (4) 18. Female child (4) 19. Nervous (4) 20. Labour (4) 21. Colouring agent (3)

23. Wearing away (7) 26. Backache (7) 28. ------- Lipman, actress (7) 29. Patron saint of music (7) 30. Goads (7) DOWN 1. Path indicator (8) 2. Tropical fruit (5) 3. Seance board (5) 4. Meat pin (6) 5. Preposition (4) 6. Offspring (7)

7. Correct text (4) 12. Inflamed swelling (4) 13. Narrated (4) 15. Ale (4) 16. Matures (4) 17. Wages (8) 18. Publicity device (7) 22. Beefeater (6) 24. Seed (5) 25. Perfect (5) 26. Deficiency (4) 27. Wheel shaft (4)

QUICK CROSSWORD: Across – 1 Summons; 8 Kindred; 9 Gentile; 10 Wrought; 11 Probate; 14 Orb; 16 Ante; 18 Girl; 19 Edgy; 20 Toil; 21 Dye; 23 Erosion; 26 Lumbago; 28 Maureen; 29 Cecilia; 30 Needles.

Down – 1 Signpost; 2 Mango; 3 Ouija; 4 Skewer; 5 Into; 6 Progeny; 7 Edit; 12 Boil; 13 Told; 15 Beer; 16 Ages; 17 Earnings; 18 Gimmick; 22 Yeoman; 24 Ovule; 25 Ideal; 26 Lack; 27 Axle.

FIVE ALIVE: QUIZ CHALLENGE: 1 Alderney; 2 Cooked in a pastry wrapper; 3 Spine; 4 Elton John; 5 Boho chic; 6 6-5; 7 Somerset; 8 Gone With the Wind; 9 Common poppy; 10 Balsa wood.

(1) Across – Muted; Rabid; Emote.

Down – Merge; Taboo; Dodge.

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD: CROSS CODE 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 Across – 1 Elephant; 6 Army; 8 Fibula; 9 Relish; 10 Donkey- (2) Across – Cache; Crumb; Anger.

V P E G Y L H T J N S R Z work; 12 Format; 14 Siding; 15 Betterment; 19 Undies; 20 Down – Cocoa; Clung; Ember.

14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 Rancid; 21 Stag; 22 Redesign.

O A M X I U F W K B C D Q Down – 2 Loin; 3 Pound; 4 Against; 5 Terse; 6 Allowed; 7 NONAGRAM: environ; envoi; envoy; envy; invent; Misprint; 11 Love-knot; 13 Matting; 14 Speared; 16 Riser; 17 inventor; INVENTORY; invert; ivory; MAGIC SQUARE: EASY SUDOKU HARD SUDOKU Tunis; 18 Wing. chum; hero; urea; nervy; oven; over; overt; ovine; renvoi; moan. rive; riven; rivet; rove; trove; vein; veiny; vent; verity; vert; very; veto; vine; vinery; vino; vintner; viny; vireo; vote; voter.

28 | LIFE

To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today

Enjoying a safe barbecue Healthy heart tip

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UMMER is a perfect time to get friends and family together to enjoy some healthy, nutritious food.

We all know Covid-19 has impacted on social activities, so barbecues provide a welcome opportunity to get together, share tips and recipes and have some fun in the process.

Choose the rainbow See how many different vegetables and fruits you can add to the barbeque to make it extra colourful.

Whether this is on a skewer or as a side, including more fruit and

Volunteer corner Wokingham Volunteer Centre

can contribute to high cholesterol.

Dips and sauces

vegetables will increase your fibre intake and reduce your risk of heart disease.

Grilled aubergine, courgette, peppers, pineapple and peaches work well.

Be creative Think of a food theme that everyone can enjoy and have fun with. How about having a variety of foods from around the world, trying new recipes, and experimenting with flavours.

You could find foods that are low in fat, such as chicken, fish, or plantbased alternatives.

Burgers and sausages are often high in saturated fat, which

How about creating your own dips and sauces?

Use fat free yoghurt or low-fat crème fraiche with fresh herbs and spices.

A lot of ready-made sauces are high in salt and sugar and they can be high in calories, which can lead to weight-gain and high blood pressure.

By being adventurous and trying out new healthy recipes, you can begin to reduce your risk of heart disease and increase your creativity. n For more tips on how to stay healthy, sign up for our weekly healthy tips at www. heartresearch.org.uk/ healthy-tips n To help keep your heart healthy, why not try out some of our Healthy Heart recipes from our website:

D

O you have some spare time on a Wednesday morning?

https://heartresearch. org.uk/heart-researchuk-recipes-2/ n Or have a look

through our Healthy Heart cookbook filled with recipes from top chefs, celebrities and

food bloggers: https:// heartresearch.org.uk/ heart-research-ukcookbook/

Seek out life-changing health information from your pharmacist while shopping

P

EOPLE in Reading are being urged to seek life-changing health information during their weekly shop, as a new survey suggests many may be missing out on free and accessible support via their local pharmacies.

Commissioned by the British Heart Foundation (BHF), Cancer Research UK, Diabetes UK and Tesco, the YouGov survey reveals just 10% of people in the South East have turned to their local pharmacy for advice and information on lowering their risk of serious health conditions including heart disease, cancer, and type 2 diabetes.

Now shoppers at the Reading and Reading West Extra stores, as well as the Wokingham superstore, are set to benefit, as the charities have joined forces with Tesco to deliver specialist training that will help Tesco pharmacy teams provide more information and support as to how people can help lower their risk of these serious conditions through small changes to their day-to-day routine.

This could include advice on stopping smoking and helping people to manage their weight.

Underlining the need for the new initiative, in the South East 60% of people are living with overweight or obesity.

Also in the region, there are around 455,800 people living with type 2 diabetes, around 55,800 new cancer cases are diagnosed each year and around a million adults are living with heart and circulatory diseases.

BHF, Cancer Research UK and

GET HELP: People in Reading are being urged to seek life-changing health information during their weekly shop, as a new survey suggests many may be missing out on free and accessible support via their local pharmacies Diabetes UK say that supporting people to make healthy changes and seek referrals for concerning symptoms could “save thousands of lives” every year from some of the UK’s most prevalent and serious health conditions.

Across Britain, of those who had visited a pharmacist for health-related advice or checks - 43% said talking to a pharmacist had eased their concerns around wasting their GP’s time.

Speaking on behalf of the partnership, Elisa Mitchell, Cancer Research UK spokesperson for Berkshire, said: “With thousands of individuals and families across the region affected by these devastating conditions, it’s clear from our survey results that pharmacists are an untapped resource for many local communities.

WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, July 21, 2022

“In the UK around four in 10 cancers, many heart and circulatory diseases and up to five in 10 cases of type 2 diabetes could be prevented or delayed.

“That’s why, by teaming up with Tesco to create this world-class training programme, we want to harness the positive power pharmacy services have to help save and improve lives – all with the incredible convenience of being able to tick the weekly shop off the list at the same time.”

The survey also found only 2% of people in the South East had visited their pharmacist for a blood pressure check in the last 12 months, despite an estimated 4.8 million people in the UK living with undiagnosed high blood pressure.

Tesco and the health charity

partners hope that shoppers take advantage of the convenience of having their local pharmacist in-store for support such as this.

Nearly a quarter (24%) of those across Britain who had visited a pharmacist for health-related advice or checks found it easier to speak to someone in a pharmacy than in other healthcare settings, while more than half (53%) identified not having to book an appointment as a benefit of using a pharmacy for information and advice about a health-related concern.

Sandy Jack, Tesco Pharmacy Manager for the South East, said: “Our Tesco pharmacy colleagues can provide information, resources and support on ways to help reduce your risk of developing cancer, type 2 diabetes and heart and circulatory disease.

“They are available for a private and confidential chat in our pharmacy consultation room, something 15% of people said was a benefit of visiting a pharmacy for information or advice about a health-related concern.

“As part of our role in supporting community health, we are encouraging customers to shop for affordable, healthy and sustainable food.

“Now, we want to encourage everyone to take advantage of the resources and support available in Tesco pharmacies to help people live healthier lives. So, if you’re shopping at Tesco, go to the pharmacy counter and one of our pharmacy colleagues wearing a ‘Let’s Talk’ badge can help you.” n To find your local Tesco Pharmacy visit tesco.com/store-locator

Do you have good IT skills and excellent communication skills?

The Wokingham Transport scheme is a scheme is looking for a new Desk Coordinator based in their offices in Wokingham Town Centre. Run from the Wokingham Volunteer Centre and provides transport mainly for the to hospital, the doctors, dentist and physiotherapy appointments.

We also provide transport for social trips such as shopping, lunch clubs and other social activities.

Drivers will be called on an ad hoc basis and they then help the clients get to and from their desired destination and in most cases, help them to attend their appointment.

We are looking for a volunteer on Wednesday mornings to take telephone requests and to enter all the booking into the CATTS booking system, to liaise with volunteer drivers to allocate the drives effectively. and to update the system whenever necessary. Training will be provided.

Time Commitment is 9.30am-1pm on Wednesdays, plus possible other ad hoc cover for holidays and sickness if possible.

Essential skills; Good IT skills, excellent communication and an empathy for elderly or other clients with health problems. Volunteer travel and parking expenses can be claimed.

Based Wokingham Town Centre. Long-term commitment needed due to the training involved. n Me2Club supports children and young people with additional needs and disabilities across Wokingham and the surrounding areas to take part in activities. Our young people want to attend weekly clubs, but their additional needs and disabilities can make it difficult for them to take part in activities that you may have taken for granted like swimming lessons, Beavers, football, Brownies and more.

The level of support our children need varies, due to the range of additional needs they have.

By becoming friends with one of our young people you can help them overcome their barriers to be included.

The children attend activities all around the Wokingham Borough and in Reading. You will need to travel to and from the activity and we will reimburse any cost incurred.

The next training course is on Wednesday, July 27, between 9am and 5pm in Woodley.

Please get in touch ASAP if you are interested.

n Over The Wall helps children, young people and their families reach beyond the boundaries of their health challenges to discover a world of mischief, magic and new possibilities.

We do this by providing free of charge, transformative activity camps.

Teammates are an essential part of camp, supporting campers throughout their time at Camp, building fantastic relationships whilst encouraging and inspiring and empowering campers as they complete camp activities.

Campers will be divided into teams based on age. You will also be part of a team of other amazing Volunteers support Campers.

You will also look after the day-time and night-time needs of the Campers in their accommodation. Training is provided.

We have multiple camps throughout the year, we are currently looking for volunteers for camps based at St Mary’s College in Ascot running from August 15-19. We require volunteers to commit to the whole of camp. n These are just a few roles on our books. Please visit our website www. volunteerwokinghamborough.org.uk to find out more about volunteering and have a look at all the roles we have to offer. If you would like to get in touch with us, please call 0118 977 0749 or email volunteer@wok-vol.org.uk.

Thursday, July 21, 2022 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

ters pedal to the lp First Days

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Zac’s starring role in The Railway Children’s sequel

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WorcesterObserver

Reader travel OXFORD

& Cream of the Cotswolds Oxford&CreamoftheCotswolds_D.pdf

Departing Fri 9 Sep ‘22 ON TRACK: The cast of The Railway Children Return Picture: StudioCanal

ated more than 30 quilts to Wokingham charity First Days Picture: Daniel Blackham

THE film now arriving, just in time for the school holidays, is a new take on an old favourite … and with a familiar face.

The Railway Children Returns is a sequel to the ever-popular children’s film from the 1970s and is now playing in cinemas nationwide.

Among the cast is Zac Cudby, a nine-year-old who plays one of the lead roles, Ted. The film also stars Jenny Agutter, Tom Courtney and Sheridan Smith.

He spent eight weeks filming the movie in Yorkshire last year.

The youngster is a member of the Spotted Talent Agency, which operates a theatre group in Shinfield.

Earlier this month, other members enjoyed a film premiere of their work at the Roseate Hotel in The Forbury.

POETRY CORNER Pride of Lions Today I stand with pride in my town that another tenement of hate has come tumbling down LGBTQ+ pride, we celebrate We don’t turn away, we don’t just tolerate So yes, God made Adam and then he made Eve But then in His wisdom He made Elton and Ellen and Steve Because being gay isn’t an abomination there’s diversity, power and more in creation And who you love doesn’t matter you see if you’re not hurting others, you’re not hurting me It’s LGBTQ+ and of this I am sure the plus equals better, the plus equals more Although I must admit it’s a struggle for me to get LGBTQ+ into rythmic poetry

TAP TIME: Siren Craft Brew will be launching four new beers entitled Time Hops, featuring aficionados favourite hops from past and present. Picture courtesy of Siren Craft Brew Live music and a DJ set will provide the backdrop to what promises to be a fun-filled day.

“There’ll be lots of great food and drinks. We’ll have street food and it’ll be the first time Clay’s Hyderabadi Kitchen are doing something like this.

“For people who don’t like beer, there will be a selection of ciders, wine and coffee.

“It’s going to be a real celebration and an opportunity to see what local businesses and breweries have to offer.”

The event takes place between 2pm-10pm on Saturday, July 30.

n Tickets cost £12, which includes access to the festival, a Time Hops glass, programme and tokens to use on the day.

Bookings can be made online.

“But being gay isn’t natural”, I take a different view have you met the gay penguins down Central Park Zoo? Baboons, dolphins, lions all engage in homosexual behaviour and they’re not packed off to conversion therapy later The parrot fish can change gender at will parrot fish Jack becomes parrot fish Jill

And the work is leading to success.

Members have landed parts in a short film, Do They See What I See?, a commercial for the Co-op, and parts in a new animation.

They were chosen following a casting session by Michelle Jones of Brilliant Casting who selected children exclusively from the film school.

The agency also represented Elijah Sholanke and helped him land the role of Young Alex Antetokounmpo the NBA star with online coaching. Disney Rise charts the rise of the basketball stars which is now streaming on Disney+ Elijah is in the white tuxedo and flew to LA for the premiere in June.

Elijah was supported by the agency as he spent three months in Greece last year during production.

This relaxing getaway gives us the perfect opportunity to discover some of England’s prettiest locations as we visit the iconic city of Oxford and explore the striking scenery of the Cotswolds’ most delightful towns and villages for a charming four-day break.

Your break includes Return coach travel from Crawley 3 nights at a selected hotel in the Coventry area with dinner & breakfast 2 for 1 bar (6pm-9pm) on selected drinks Excursions to Oxford, Bourton-on-the-Water & Stow-on-the-Wold

4 Days by Coach

only £144

.99 Single Supplement £45

GREAT LITTLE TRAINS

of North Wales & Portmeirion And nature is cool and totally complex these beautiful creatures can vary their sex Isn’t it great they teach sexuality matters at school It’s not turning kids gay you ignorant fool My son has managed to get through Vikings without engaging pillage and rape He’s completed his maths without becoming a polygon shape Gay, straight, bi, trans, pansexual Define yourself how you want or abide by no label You tell me the pronoun you expect and will call you because I owe you respect Him, her, them, xie You do you and I’ll do me and that is how we are all of us free to carve and create our right to selfidentity You are you and you are complete a rose by any other name still smells as sweet Love is patient and love is kind and love leaves homophobia behind So roar out of the closet let’s all storm the gates because the power of love overcomes the power of hate And yes there’s will be those that rage with disgust But you know the old mantra, they doth protesth too much

Fiona Dignan

We love receiving your poetry and print a selection every week. Send your verse to news@wokingham.today

GreatLittleTrainsofNorthWales&Portmeirion_D.pdf

Departing Mon 3 Oct ‘22 We explore the spectacular scenery and historic railways of North Wales on this fantastic five-day break. Combined with North Wales’ rugged coastline, magnificent castles and the endless panoramas, this memorable break makes for a charming few days away.

Your break includes Return coach travel from Crawley 4 nights at the Risboro Hotel, Llandudno with dinner & breakfast Entertainment some evenings Heritage journeys on the Welsh Highland Railway, Great Orme Tramway & Ffestiniog Railway Free time in Llandudno Excursions to Caernarfon & Portmeirion

5 Days by Coach

only £324

Single Supplement £60

Operated by Just Go Holidays Ltd. Coach package holidays and short breaks are subject to Just Go! Holidays terms and conditions. Your booking is protected by Bonded Coach Holidays (BCH) and the Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust Limited (ABTOT); this is a government approved consumer protection scheme. Tours offered subject to availability and government guidelines. Errors and omissions excepted. Prices per person, based on two people sharing a double/twin room. Calls to 033 numbers are free within inclusive minutes packages otherwise standard rates apply.

For more information, or to book, please call

03332 342 527 Quote WPR

or visit justgoholidays.com/WPR 033 numbers are free within inclusive minutes packages otherwise standard rates apply.

30 | VIEWPOINTS

WOKINGHAM.TODAY THE VOICE OF THE BOROUGH

Let’s not leave anyone behind

AMONG the warnings for this week’s extreme temperatures was also advice.

How to cope with excessive heat, and ensure we don’t succumb to heatstroke.

Always carry a bottle of water, to help avoid getting dehydrated.

Try not to travel, or even be outside during the peak hours of 11am to 3pm, when the sun’s UV rays are at its hottest.

And a reminder to look out for our neighbours.

It’s something we’ve been doing during covid, and also during the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations.

Whenever there are flashpoint moments, we need to take a moment to remember those around us and ask one question – how can I be of help?

A simple checking in to ensure our neighbours are OK is sometimes all that’s needed. It might just be a text message or an email, ensuring that they can get additional support.

We are fortunate that the One Front Door scheme exists, run by Wokingham Citizens Advice and connecting volunteers, goods and services with people who need help.

The number is 0808 278 7958, and is open 9am to 5pm on weekdays.

Let’s ensure no one is left alone.

CHURCH NOTES

True, honourable, just, pure, pleasing..

I

AM sure many of us watched the service in St Paul’s Cathedral to celebrate and give thanks for our beloved Queen on her Platinum Jubilee.

I do not know who selected the readings for this very special occasion. But the second one in particular was indeed an inspired choice for two reasons.

First, it served as an apt commentary on the way Her Majesty has fulfilled the promises she made to us all when she came to the throne.

Second, it offered an agenda for the future of our country.

This affects not just those who are chosen to lead it, but equally each one of us, if we are to discover a sense of community and service to one another.

Let me recall the words St Paul wrote to lift the spirits of new Christians in difficult times, and to assure them of God’s constant presence with them.

He gives us a wonderful list of adjectives describing qualities of which we can never get enough.

“True…honourable…just…pure…pleasing… commendable”. To drive his message home he invites them “if there is any excellence, anything worthy of praise, to think of these things” and to keep on doing them.

We must never imagine that this is something just for other people.

It is only when we all, as best we can, follow this way that divisions in our society may be healed and a better life becomes a possibility.

Colin James is an Honorary Priest at All Saints Church, Wokingham, writing on behalf of Churches Together in Wokingham

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Your letters Send your thoughts to letters@wokingham.today

Did you put your specs on?

You’d have to pretty unobservant if you failed to notice that the so-called Lib Dem “newspaper” was a party political publication.

Where do we usually start reading?

Top left of the page.

Where did it state that it was a Lib Dem publication?

Top left of the page.

Michael Storey, Wokingham

Alternatives to driving I read Cllr Jorgensens’ piece, ‘From the Chamber’ (July 14) with interest.

I am glad she enjoys cycling, I have only seen her twice in the past few years on her electric bike, I hope to see more of her cycling.

I was sad she said there was no funding gap for the buses, when you arrive in power and on the first day are shown a paper saying there was no budget for the buses from September when the real truth becomes a reality, we have had to work quickly to save bus services by using S106 funding as a temporary measure until we set a new budget.

As a partnership (NOT a coalition) running Wokingham Borough Council we are NOT forcing people out of their cars.

We are giving people good alternative choices to cycle, walk (both good for mental and physical health) or take the bus, and investing in these options.

If people still need/want to use their cars this is their choice, what we are doing is making the choice wider for the sake of our health and the health of the environment.

Indeed as more people walk, cycle, or use the bus there will be more room

IN this very hot weather, it’s more important than ever to be mindful of the amount of water we use, while continuing to stay hydrated and safe.

We naturally use more water when it’s hot and dry, but the knockon effect is demand for water has increased substantially up and down the country.

Fortunately, there are small, simple things everyone in the area can do to ease the strain and ensure water is readily available for all – from learning to embrace a brown lawn and taking shorter showers, to saving yourself a chore and not washing the car!

It may not sound like much, but it’ll have a big impact on your water consumption and help save you money. Cutting a minute from your morning shower could save up to 12 litres a minute and cut £70 a year

C

week.

Not one, but two public consultations about cycling and walking have been launched by the Borough Council and judging by reactions on local social media everyone is in favour of improved cycleways – just as long as they are not outside their houses.

The Woodley to Reading Active Travel Route is back - readers may remember this as the Woodlands Avenue, one-way proposal which originally launched earlier this year,

from your bills – and an extra £60 from your water bill if you’re on a meter! You can find out more at the Water’s Worth Saving campaign

website - https://watersworthsaving. org.uk/.

Peter Jenkins, Director of Campaigns at Water UK time taking no responsibility, will not bring back those green fields.

Perhaps, just perhaps, we might save some green fields going forwards, if we spent as much time and effort in working together as we do playing party politics.

The letters in the issue of July 7 ‘Drop the nasty act’ and ‘Divide and rule’ would, on the surface, seem to be unrelated and perhaps even polar opposites.

Yet if you read carefully they both contain the same message. A clear message to all Wokingham Councillors.

That message being we need to put aside party politics and political point scoring games, it is time to work together.

In recent weeks much is being made of the local plan and what

has not been done in the past few weeks. Nothing however seems to be mentioned about the past few years.

The pains resulting from the local over development of the Shinfield area, the (in my opinion) unfair 97% to 3% split of previous local plans or the breaking of the agreed local plan (Executive decision with no consultation) to bring forwards the significant development (South of Cutbush) well before the agreed planned date, have been and continue to be, by far the biggest cause of resident complaints to me as a Shinfield councillor is resident issues directly related to previous local plan developments.

We are, however, where we are and no amount of complaining will bring back our green fields.

Scattering blame but at the same

causing uproar among Woodley Town Conservative Councillors who accused Wokingham Borough Conservative Councillors of not consulting them.

Strange really as five Woodley Town Councillors also happened to be Wokingham Borough Councillors at the time, but anyway the net result of these shenanigans was that Council officers went away and modified the plan and have removed the one-way aspect.

So, everyone is now happy?

Well, no actually.

They are now unhappy about narrowed carriageways, 20mph limits and weight limits on some roads.

And rather disingenuously, they are trying to blame the new administration of the Council for a project which was in fact set in motion under the previous regime.

If you are trying to view the plans on a phone or tablet it is almost impossible to fully understand what is planned so I have asked officers to provide enlargements of these rather complicated plans to be put on display in Woodley as soon as possible.

The second consultation is much broader and affects the whole borough. It is the Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan (LCWIP). This is a strategy which sets out the Council’s draft cycling and walking network plans for the next 10 years, and the improvements that might be needed to make these key routes safer and more convenient to use.

Both consultations are open until Friday, August 19, and I would urge all residents to go to engage. wokingham.gov.uk to have your say.

The Council has made the decision to no longer provide plastic bags for the food recycling caddies and this has caused great consternation in some quarters, particularly from members of the previous administration who seem to have u-turned completely on their commitment to rid the Council

of single-use plastics.

I have lost count of the number of times I have had to wade in on Facebook to explain that food waste isn’t composted so it doesn’t need to be in compostable bags – you can recycle food in any bag.

The food waste goes to an anaerobic digester; the bags are all removed – both the bags and food are processed to generate electricity. re3 has an excellent video which explains the process.

What this has brought home to me is just how naïve most people are about what happens to their rubbish and recycling and the Council really needs to up its game in providing information to residents if it wants to increase its recycling rate to 70% by 2030.

Perhaps we could start with costs - it costs you, the council tax payers, £120 per tonne to dispose of the blue bag waste but only £20 per tonne to recycle food waste.

Just think of all that money going into other services – it really is a no-brainer.

Cllr Shirley Boyt is a Labour councillor for Bulmershe and Whitegates ward on Wokingham Borough Council

on the roads and a win for drivers as well.

Cllr David Hare, Councillor for Hawkedon Ward, Executive member for Adult Services

A clear message

Cllr Shirley Boyt

YCLING and recycling are two issues which have got residents (and Town Councillors) vexed this

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

Stay hydrated, but save water too

From the chamber

Cycling and recycling

WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, July 21, 2022

Cllr Jim Frewin, Independent councillor for Shinfield South

Summer of discontent Now that Heathrow has announced a curtailing of passenger numbers as it struggles to cope with demand, residents around the airport are wondering when a reduction in night flights will occur?

The past few weeks have seen too many flights operating past midnight, with some even past 1am.

This is unacceptable, particularly as flights begin to arrive again over

some parts of London from as early at 4.15am.

The many hundreds of thousands of people under Heathrow’s flight paths must not continue paying the price for Heathrow’s recruitment backlog – staff they were keen to fire at the beginning of the pandemic but have struggled to re-hire and train quickly enough to cope with demand.

As London and the Thames Valley suffer record-breaking temperatures, we hope that the airport will reduce flights at these most disruptive times – when the heat means we are already having difficulty getting a decent night’s sleep.

Heathrow’s summer of discontent cannot be allowed to continue to impact such large swathes of the population.

Justine Bayley, Chair, Stop Heathrow Expansion

Sermon in the parliament Did a sermon by the Revd Les Isaac at a Parliamentary prayer meeting move Sajid Javid to resign as Health Secretary?

Saint Luke writes how the Apostle Paul preached at a centre of power in ancient Athens-’The Areopagus’almost 2,000 years ago.

Some listeners laughed at Paul while others reserved judgment on the resurrection. A senior official called Dionysus responded to Paul’s message.

The penetrating power of the preacher is not a new phenomenon by any stretch of the imagination.

We should not be surprised at all on hearing media stories about how a sermon appears to have impacted the timing of Sajid Javid’s resignation.

Do more MPs need to heed the spiritual or moral message delivered by preachers?

J T Hardy, by email

If you see a stag beetle...

Today I was lucky enough to see my first Stag Beetle [an endangered species] for 2022 by a roadside in Wokingham and gently picked him up and moved to a quiet corner of a nearby park where he’ll be safer, he was exploring his new surroundings when I left him.

I have recorded my sighting of him on the People’s Trust for Endangered Species Great Stag Beetle Hunt website.

So far this year across the UK they’ve had over 8,000 sightings.

Time to tackle NEETS Data from the Department of Education showed that the proportion of 16-year-olds who are NEET (Not in Education, Employment or Training) is at its highest level since 2012.

This is a devastating indication of the effect that years of interrupted education and the pandemic has had on our young people, on their ambitions, on their mental health.

In our education centres we are aware of these missing young people, the ones that were already vulnerable, already struggling but because of the pandemic this wasn’t picked up.

Unfortunately, many of those young people have now slipped through the net.

We need a reunited effort to find these young people and to engage them back in education, training or employment. Once we had a national Connexions service which could do this exact task.

Now we have a patchy, postcode lottery of provision to support and engage NEET young people. They deserve better than this.

We need more focus and more funding for those young people who are disengaged from education and we need this funding to be extended to cover 16-18 year olds through a Pupil Premium Plus.

From the chamber

Cllr David Hare

Why adult social care costs is the elephant charging down Wokingham’s road

M

ANY people know that the adult Social Care reforms trumpet the fact that none of us will have to pay for Social Care once we have paid £86,000.

But what does that mean for you, and what does it mean for the Council accounts?

The first thing to say is the amount you have paid for care is the only criteria for costs.

So, if you pay £1,000 a week for a bed in a care home and £650 of that is for the care then £350 is ‘hotel costs’ that do not get counted.

The next thing is a local cost for care will be worked out, this will be the amount used to judge what you have paid towards the limit.

If you are in an expensive home

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Thursday, July 21, 2022 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

the amount you pay for care may well be above the amount you are counted as paying.

Many complaints to Adult Services now are to do with payments, this will multiply that problem, even if we can recruit the staff to work out a local cost of care and then what counts for each individual.

The primary aim of the charging reforms is to redistribute the financial responsibility for paying for an individual’s care between the individual and the local authority.

At its simplest, the cost to the individual will reduce, and the cost to the local authority will increase.

To achieve this aim, there are four key components: n a cap on the amount any

If you too have seen a Stag Beetle, Male [with the reinforced jaws / “antlers”], Female or Larvae then please do record your sightings

Elise Temple, Director of Education and Skills, Nacro (one of the country’s largest independent providers of further education and skills)

Join fight against breast cancer

People with breast cancer need you. And they need you now. Every year, around 55,000 women and 370 men in the UK have their lives turned upside down by a breast cancer diagnosis. In 2007 I experienced this first hand when I was told I had the disease.

Nearly five years after I finished treatment I was diagnosed with secondary (metastatic) breast cancer which had spread to my liver.

Secondary breast cancer can be treated but cannot be cured.

I’ve worked with the charity Breast Cancer Now for a long time because they’ve been with me right from the start. That’s why I’m calling on readers join me this August by hosting an Afternoon Tea. Afternoon Tea is Breast Cancer Now’s annual fundraising event, that gives you a chance to get together with friends, family or colleagues over a cake in the garden, or a picnic in the park, to raise money for charity.

Money raised will help Breast

individual can spend on their personal care over a lifetime; n a more generous system of means testing; a ‘fair’ cost of care will be established to support providers; n enactment of section 18(3) of the Care Act which will mean all individuals can ask the local authority to arrange their care, so self-funders will not pay an excess. n Self-funders support people who are funded by the Council. The payment for self-funders is about 40% over what the Council pays.

This will change so that self-funders will pay less while the Council pays more, so that everyone pays the same for a set level of care. Having to pay the cost of care when people reach the limit for self-funding will mean, after about three years, that the Council has a bill for at least an extra £26.5 million per annum on the Adult Care Services budget as there are, in Wokingham, about 3,117 private funders.

There is this cost of care, but in addition we will need about 20 additional social workers to assess and review care plans, the ICT needs of the service must be newly developed as well as at least 4 extra administration workers to manage care accounts being required. The cost of care exercise must be completed by October, and authorities must write a plan to say how they will meet the extra costs of this service.

also on the PTES website, also if the Beetle was Alive, Injured or Deceased and where you’ve found it]. Thank you.

The website is: https://ptes.org/ campaigns/stag-beetles-2 Did you know the Male Stag Beetles use their reinforced jaws to battle opponent Males to try and flip the other onto its back, the victor gets the Female Stag Beetles within a territory, the loser has to look elsewhere - that’s if they can right themselves first.

Ian Hydon, Wokingham Cancer Now continue to provide award-winning health information, fund cutting-edge research projects, and give someone much-needed reassurance on their Helpline, which I know from calling the team myself, can make all the difference.

Research into finding new treatments is incredibly important and everyday Breast Cancer Now’s research in the lab brings us closer to a future where everyone with breast cancer lives and is supported to live well. By hosting an Afternoon Tea, you can raise vital funds to help researchers get there faster.

I’ve hosted an Afternoon Tea this year and loved being able to invite friends over to share in my passion with food, whilst raising money for a cause close to my heart.

This year’s Afternoon Tea fundraising kit includes a whole host of exciting decorations and games to make your event special, including beautiful bespoke bunting designed by iconic British brand Cath Kidston.

Join thousands of people across the UK and host an Afternoon Tea at any point throughout August, sign up for your fundraising kit at breastcancernow.org/cuppa

Jane Devonshire, 2016 MasterChef winner and Breast Cancer Now supporter Yes, if you are going into care from the start of this system (and counting the cost of care doesn’t start until October 2023), your assets will be damaged but not obliterated. But it will mean a huge extra bill, with funding not seeming to be available from anywhere, for the Council to meet.

Being a small unitary and very badly funded borough, Wokingham has not got the reserves to meet this increased cost. It also has one of the largest proportion of self funders in the land, if nothing is done and this becomes a statutory cost it will mean that some of the services we provide that are not essential statutory provision, however positive they are for the population, will need to be cut.

I had some plans to develop some area of the Adult Care field that I felt needed to be extended, but I understand my director is very wary of starting new developments when this elephant seems to be charging down the road.

I must agree that the role of the dice to put someone in a home should not see the end of their assets but expecting the Local Authority, who have consistently been underfunded, to find this type of extra cost is not something we can understand or, in any way afford.

Cllr David Hare is the executive member f or Health, Wellbeing and Adult Services

From the leader

Cllr Clive Jones

The strength of working together

W

E have all been impressed by the courage and determination of the Ukrainian people in resisting an unprovoked

invasion.

The response across the free world has shown that Russian hopes of sowing division have backfired.

Putin wanted to deter his neighbours from joining NATO and the EU; instead, he has driven them into the arms of these international organisations.

But despite the heroism of the Ukrainians and the misjudgments of Putin, the most striking thing about the invasion is the human suffering it has involved.

Many innocent people have been killed or injured, homes have been destroyed and enormous numbers of people, especially women and children, have been displaced.

Here in Wokingham, we are playing our part in the dealing with the fall out from this humanitarian crisis.

I want to take this opportunity to pay tribute to all those who have done so much to help the Ukrainian refugees who have arrived in our community.

We all owe a debt of gratitude to the residents of the borough who have generously opened their doors to Ukrainian families.

To share your home with strangers is surely the greatest act of humanity and kindness.

The voluntary sector has been brilliant, stepping up to the challenge in a truly impressive way.

We owe them enormous thanks.

I am also grateful to the officers of the council who have gone over and above the call of duty to help match up potential hosts and guests. Many residents have contacted me to praise our officers for their exceptional work in this area of council activity.

Residents, the voluntary sector and council officers working to a common objective – helping Ukrainian refugees - exemplifies the idea of partnership, which the new administration at Wokingham is keen to promote.

Partnership is central to our approach, that’s why we are happy to work with other political parties, including Labour and independent councillors.

We are also working with Conservative MPs locally in an attempt to get housing numbers down.

We can achieve so much more when we work together than we can achieve on our own.

Cllr Clive Jones is the leader of Wokingham Borough Council and Lib Dem member for Hawkedon ward

32 | BUSINESS

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A business park that is changing

Courier firm to expand A COURIER firm is expanding its operations to meet demand, with Reading one of the key points in its operation.

CitySprint, which operates a same-day delivery service, says it is focusing on highgrowth in the healthcare sector.

It is seeking additional staff in London, Manchester, Birmingham, Bristol, Reading and Nottingham.

And the firm is looking to expand it electric vehicle fleet.

Mark Footman, chief operating officer at CitySprint, said: “As a business, we have enjoyed another year of considerable growth — winning new clients and, most recently, acquiring Manchester-based same-day courier company, EcoSpeed.

“We are committed to providing our 14,000+ clients with the best possible service all year round, which is why we’re bolstering the fleet to ensure we are prepared to face anything that comes our way over the busy summer months.

“We look forward to welcoming new suppliers on board, to help us deliver on these promises and stay ahead of our competitors.”

The company currently has a fleet comprising 3,500 vans, bikes and cars

n For more details, log on to: www.citysprint.co.uk

InstaGroup opens new HQ

By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokingham.today

A COMPANY that is committed to helping people reach net zero is practising what it preaches with a new headquarters in Finchampstead.

And to celebrate, InstaGroup invited Darren Jones to cut the ribbon and declare InstaHouse open.

The Labour MP for Bristol North West is the chair of the cross party House of Commons Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy Committee, so understands the challenges facing the industry.

InstaGroup has four branches: its buildings arm helps the construction industry, its insulation and heating services help install all kinds of energy saving measures, while its flooring solutions include specialist systems for sports and indoor leisure activities, as well as acoustic underlays for homes.

It also has an installer network, providing insulation system design, high quality materials and technical back-up. Its services can work with local authorities and social housing providers.

WPR_2022-07-18_ReadingToday_16x4 (1)_Just Go

Now, the firm has smart new offices from which it can offer its services and support to both domestic and business customers.

Based in Hogwood Business Park, the open plan space includes a mezzanine level, and plenty of space for its team to work and enjoy some downtime.

Introducing the ribbon cutting, InstaGroup’s David Robson said that the previous base was “very tired” and needed some TLC. “We’ve given it

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BIG MOMENT: InstaGroup’s David Robson watches as Bristol North West MP Darren Jones cuts the ribbon to open the new InstaGroup HQ in Hogwood Industrial Park in Finchampstead Picture: Phil Creighton

House Party

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Return coach travel from Reading 3 nights at the Burlington Hotel, Torquay with dinner & breakfast Happy hour every evening before dinner Tea, coffee and cake on one afternoon Bingo afternoon Entertainment every evening Excursion to Exeter

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slightly more than that. I’m really proud that we have a bright, modern home,” he said.

He added that the building helped “symbolise the changes we’ve gone through as a business and where we are heading”.

“The preparations we are making to enable us to be in the best possible shape to make the most of the opportunities that lie ahead with net zero,” he said.

“It’s also about attracting the next generation into this sector.

“This is so important as the industry needs to adapt and modernise if we are going to deliver

the changes needed to our building stock in order for net zero to be delivered.

“The committee on climate change issued a report with a pretty stark warning: we are way behind where we need to be on energy efficiency, we urgent need to ramp up.”

Mr Jones was thrilled to visit.

“The new offices are fantastic,” he said. “It’s great to support InstaGroup. They are one of the leading companies in the country for energy efficiency work.

“We know how important it is to decarbonise buildings to hit our net zero targets, and we can’t do that without companies like InstaGroup.”

The visit was also beneficial as it meant Mr Jones was able to leave Westminster and see for himself the difference the company can make.

“When we’re in Westminster, looking at evidence, thinking about how we spend taxpayers money making policy decisions, all that really matters is that we know there are companies like InstaGroup who are able to do the work that we need to be doing across the country.

“This is ultimately about people and businesses being able to prepare the country for the worst effects of climate change, and to limit climate change for the future.

So it’s great to be here and see that in real life.”

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MEETING: A previous meeting of the Wokingham Positive Difference group. It meets at the town hall on Friday

Positive meeting about teamwork A BUSINESS networking group will meet on Friday with an aim of helping companies grow.

Creating Your Dream Team is the theme of the Wokingham Positive Difference meeting, which takes place in the town hall from 8am.

This is the networking group’s 75th event, and is themed around its motto of TEAM – together, everyone achieves more.

Organisers say that as nobody achieves success

entirely on their own, companies need to utilise skills of others to provide an elevated level of service.

This, they add, allows people to continually develop, sell goods and services more efficiently, and create outstanding networks, while contributing to wider community endeavours.

The meeting looks at how to create the team, and how to perfect it.

The event also includes

open networking, a buffet breakfast, news updates from the team, local businesses, government, and community groups in addition to the keynote session.

Booking is essential, and places cost £17. The session runs from 8am to 9.30am, with further networking opportunities available.

n For more details, log on to: https://www. wokinghampositivedifference. co.uk/

Thursday, July 21, 2022 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

NEWS | 33

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Pupils bring glitz and glamour to town

By DANIEL BLACKHAM dblackham@wokingham.today

GLITZ and glamour came to Wokingham last week, courtesy of a Finchampstead primary school.

Nine Mile Ride Primary School held an Oscar-themed event for its year three students, at the Everyman Cinema on Elms Field, to present an array of movies they had created for the big screen.

Children dressed up for the red carpet occasion and grabbed their popcorn as they made their way to their seats.

Star-shaped cards with pupils’ names on were laid on the staircase creating a walk of fame for families to feel like they were on Hollywood Boulevard.

Throughout the school term, the students scripted, directed, edited and acted in their own short black and white films.

Mark Scurr, one of the teachers who organised the event, said: “This is a really nice way for us to end the year and show all the hard work of the teachers and students.

“We like this event. It gives the children a purpose behind their work with something they can look forward to.”

Mr Scurr was keen to pay tribute to his colleagues’ efforts, as well as thanking Everyman Cinema for hosting.

He added: “The teachers who help put it together deserve recognition because it is hard work, but when it comes together and we have a day like this, seeing how happy everyone is, then it’s really worth it.

“We would also like to thank Everyman, they have been so supportive and we have tried to help them out with parents buying food and drink.”

KNIT PRIZE: Maggy won top honours in the knitted item category Picture: Daniel Blackham TO THE NINES: Nine Mile Ride School dressed for the occasion as they hosted their very own Oscars at The Everyman Picture Daniel Blackham

Crowthorne show debuts at church A CROWTHORNE church has hosted its first flower and vegetable show.

On Saturday, July 9, the Crowthorne Methodist Church held the event as part of the Crowthorne Carnival.

There were four classes for cooking, produce, flowers and crafts.

Each class contained a number of subcategories and residents from the community were invited to showcase the best they had to offer.

Rosettes were awarded to the top three in each category with all entries receiving an award for participating.

There was also a further honour given to the best in show.

A spokesperson for the church said: “This was our first year running the event so we are really happy with the entries we have received.”

Alison Hamilton with her first place in one of the many vegetable categories

The Cherries to rock The Crowthorne Inn A ROCK covers band is fine tuning its set list as it prepares to play in a Crowthorne pub later this month.

The Cherries perform music from bands such as

Stereophonics, Snow Patrol, Foo Fighters, Weezer, Green Day and Oasis.

Established in 2005, the group have built up a following across the region,

and can be heard at The Crowthorne Inn on the village’s High Street on Saturday, July 30.

For more details, call the pub on 01344 530615.

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Audio trail launched to explore university’s ‘hidden gem’

By JI-MIN LEE jlee@wokingham.today

CHILDREN and families are set to enjoy one of Reading’s bestkept wildlife secrets thanks to the launch of a new audio trail.

On Monday, July 11, The University of Reading launched the initiative at Harris Garden, to help visitors learn about its rare and unusual plants.

The trail is 35 minutes long and was made in conjunction with soundscape artist Richard Bentley, children from three local primary schools (Redlands, Alfred Sutton and Newtown primary schools), as well as outdoor educators Charlotte Allchin and Teresa Verney-Brookes.

Stéphanie Mitchell, Arts Development Officer at the University of Reading, said: “The Harris Garden is one of Reading’s hidden gems.

“Open to all, it is a beautiful green space that gives people the chance to admire some interesting and unusual plants and, more importantly, reconnect with nature.”

ON THE TRAIL: The Harris Gardens features trees and shrubs from around the world, some of which date back to its 18th century origins. Picture courtesy of the University of Reading “The audio trail is aimed at helping visitors to the Harris Garden access some of its treasures.

“We were keen for local school children to be involved in the project so that they could create something special for their local community and have the experience of creating a different type of art.

“Working with our outdoor educators meant that they

could learn more about the Harris Garden as a place to visit but also as a way of nurturing a sense of environmental stewardship.

“It was a real pleasure to see the excitement and wonder of the children as they learnt about the garden and the wildlife within it.”

The trail’s narration is set to sounds recorded in the garden by the school children, featuring

birdsong, crunching leaves and wind blowing through the trees.

The students also used percussion instruments from around the world.

The Harris Garden was established in 1972, and named after distinguished palaeobotanist and former professor Tom Harris.

Located on the south side of the Whiteknights campus, it is a small botanical garden

containing many tree and shrub species from around the world.

Monkey trees, ginkgos and redwoods feature, with some plants dating back to the garden’s 18th century origins.

Emily Farahani, a teacher at Newtown Primary School, said: “Visiting the Harris Garden was a wonderful opportunity for our children. It was fantastic to see them spend the day outside and the effect this had on their wellbeing and self-confidence was incredible.

“Having access to spaces like the Harris Gardens is so valuable for our children who live in urban areas to enable them to connect with nature.”

The audio trail was produced as part of the university’s public arts strategy, with assistance from Reading School of Art, the Institute of Education, Estates Team and School of Biological Sciences.

The Harris Garden is currently undergoing path construction and re-surfacing works, as the university creates an accessible loop of the entire garden.

Royals’ SEND sports camps

READING FC Community Trust welcomes budding athletes to attend its SEND sports camps this summer.

Held at The Avenue School, Tilehurst,the camps are for children between the ages of eight and 18 who have disabilities.

At this time, the club cannot accept participants who require PEG feeding or have epilepsy.

All support staff have experience working with young people with a range of disabilities.

Coaches will run play sessions focusing on engagement and developing fundamental skills.

There will be four camps, each lasting three days, starting on Monday, August 15.

Each day runs between 10am-1pm.

Bookings cost £10 per day.

n For more information or to book places, visit: www.readingfc. co.uk/community-trust/

36 | NEWS

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INTHECOMMUNITY

WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, July 21, 2022

Share news from your groups, clubs and societies.

Send reports to news@wokingham.today

Charity ball raises thousands for Sue Ryder

Dear Ma’am, congratulations on 70 years of service, love from Wokingham borough

FUNDRAISER: The Sue Ryder Thames Valley Summer Ball raised £40,000 which will go towards funding Sue Ryder’s bereavement services in Berkshire and South Oxfordshire.jpgPhoto caption: (L-R) Emma Leiper Finlayson, Sue Ryder’s National Head of Community Fundraising; Kiren Sharma; Cllr Rachel Eden, Mayor of Reading; Amal Sharma, Senior Partner at Gravity Personnel; Kathy Sharma and Fern Haynes, Sue Ryder’s Head of Fundraising for Thames Valley A BLACK tie gala saw TV star Chris Tarrant help raise thousands for a charity that helps families with bereavement support.

More than 200 people attended the Sue Ryder Thames Valley summer ball, held at Reading’s Hilton Hotel on Saturday, July 2.

Mr Tarrant said in a video message: “I was born in Reading, and I know all about the great work that Sue Ryder do in the Thames Valley area and all over the UK. “The very special auction pledges may well go to support your loved ones at the time when they need it most.

“Thank you, Sue Ryder, for everything you do.”

The evening included an auction, comedy from Adger Brown, a drinks reception sponsored by Laithwaites, a three-course meal, and live music and dancing from the Vodka Martinis.

Among the attendees was the Mayor of Reading, Cllr Rachel Eden, who selected Sue Ryder Duchess of Kent Hospice as one of her charities.

More than £40,000 was raised.

Local supporter Sue Webb delivered an emotional speech on the night about

the vital support she received from Sue Ryder when her husband, John, who had dementia, was receiving palliative care.

She said: “I never realised dementia was going to be as bad as it was.

“I thought I could handle a bit of forgetfulness but without Sue Ryder I just don’t know what I would have done, I really don’t.

“It was their kindness but also the change in John while they were here and when they had been here. He would smile and it made him happy to see them.”

She described the team as ‘angels’ that helped in a time of need.

“They made so much difference to me and to my family as I’m sure they have to many of you. And we’re here tonight to make sure Sue Ryder can continue to be there when it matters for many years to come,” she said.

Amal Sharma, senior partner from Headline Sponsor Gravity Personnel, said: “It was a fantastic night. Thanks to everyone’s hard work and generosity we managed to raise £40,000.

“This will truly have a massive impact in ensuring that the local community can have access to Sue Ryder’s palliative

and bereavement services which are vital in supporting families grieving from the loss of a loved one.

“Thank you all so much.”

And Sue Ryder’s Head of Fundraising for Thames Valley, Fern Haynes, said: “Our Summer Ball was a fabulous evening from start to finish and we’d like to say a special thank you to Chris Tarrant for his message of support, our Headline Sponsor Gravity Personnel, our Creative Sponsor A.B.Walker and to all of the businesses and individuals who came along and made it such a huge success.

“Every penny raised from the event will go towards helping local people get the vital bereavement support they need at what has and continues to be a really challenging time.

“The support from the local community for this event has been inspiring and I am truly grateful to everyone who has contributed. I would like to say a special thank you to our Sue Ryder Community Ambassador, Sue Roberts, who went above and beyond to make the event possible.” n For more information about Sue Ryder, visit: sueryder.org

CONGRATULATIONS: Wokingham borough mayor Cllr Caroline Smith signs a letter to The Queen Picture: Stewart Turkington CARDS congratulating the Queen on her Platinum Jubilee have been sent to Buckingham Palace.

The cards, designed by Wokingham Borough Council, were available for residents to write their good wishes inside.

These were then displayed in borough libraries and at the council’s Shute End offices.

After the jubilee weekend, the council combined all the cards, including printing a number of digital messages, and bound them into a physical congratulations card.

Last week, the cards were hand tied with a ribbon and posted to Buckingham Palace which included a letter from Wokingham borough mayor, Cllr Caroline Smith.

Cllr Smith said: “It is a great pleasure to share the signed

congratulations cards for Her Majesty The Queen.

“More than one hundred residents took the time to write their heart-felt messages and good wishes inside the cards, younger residents showed their artistic talents by drawing castles and crowns, and one of our borough libraries created a large-scale stamp collage in the shape of The Queen’s head.

“On behalf of Wokingham Borough Council, I would like to extend my congratulations and sincere gratitude to Her Majesty The Queen for her incredible 70 years of service to our country.”

A digital version, featuring all the well wishes, has also been created with an additional copy sent to the Berkshire Record Office. n To view or download the card, visit: news.wokingham.gov.uk

Sign up for September-based fitness challenge A FITNESS challenge is being launched in September in a bid to raise awareness of Leukaemia.

The Step Out Challenge runs across the autumn month, and participants are asked to walk, run or cycle throughout the month. There is no minimum or maximum distance to the challenge, just a request to raise sponsorship.

Chief executive of Leukaemia Care, Zack Pemberton-Whiteley, said: “The challenge is free to sign up to and people can raise anything they can as every penny raised makes a difference to those living to help make a difference to those living with a leukaemia, MDS or MPN diagnosis.”

And anyone who raises £50 or more receives an eco-friendly medal. Those who raise more than £100 receive a T-shirt, and those who raise more than £250 can enjoy a £20 gift car for the charity’s online shop.

There are trophies for the biggest fundraiser and the person who covered the most distance.

As part of the challenge, the charity hopes people will share the six most common symptoms of leukaemia: fatigue, shortness of breath, fever or night sweats, bruising or bleeding, bone or joint pain, and repeated infections. n For more details, log on to www.leukaemiacare.org.uk

Thursday, July 21, 2022 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

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Set in the historic village of Binfield, Tilehurst Green is a superb collection of two, three and four-bedroom homes.

The Buckworth offers balanced living space over its 1186 sq ft.

The ground floor features a spacious triple-aspect and open-plan area for the lounge / kitchen / dining room while a snug towards the rear of the property provides an ideal space for home working, with bifolding doors to the rear garden offering plenty of natural light. Upstairs are three bedrooms, two are doubles, with the main bedroom boasting an en-suite.

The high standard specification includes: • Low carbon Heating • Integrated Bosch appliances • Laufen sanitaryware • Oak veneer internal doors • A mirrored wardrobe to bedroom one • An electric car charging point

SHOW HOME AVAIL ABLE . SALES CE NTRE OPE N DAILY 10AM -5PM TILE HURST.GRE E N@BURRINGTONESTATES .COM 01344 231280 BURRINGTONESTATES .COM Photography of show home, indicative only. Price correct at time of print.

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PUBLIC NOTICES

ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 WOKINGHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL (VARIOUS ROADS, WOKINGHAM BOROUGH) (TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF DRIVING) ORDER 2022 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 to prohibit any vehicle from proceeding along: 1. Church Lane, Arborfield between its junctions with B3030 Sindlesham Road and A327 Reading Road.

The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via A327 Reading Road and B3030 Sindlesham Road or by this route in reverse.

Works requiring this restriction will take place between 12th August and 16th August 2022.

2. Dell Road, Finchampstead between its junctions with B3348 The Ridges and Lower Sandhurst Road.

The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via Lower Sandhurst Road, Ambarrow Lane, A321 Wokingham Road B3348 Wellingtonia Avenue and B3348 The Ridges or by this route in reverse.

Works requiring this restriction will take place between 30th August and 5th September 2022.

3. Remenham Lane, Remenham between its junctions with A4130 Henley Bridge and Remenham Church Lane.

The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via Remenham Church Lane, A4130 White Hill and A4130 Henley Bridge or by this route in reverse.

Works requiring this restriction will take place between 1st September and `12th September 2022.

4. Aston Ferry Lane, Remenham from its junction with Remenham Lane.

Works requiring this restriction will take place between 5th September and 23rd September 2022.

5. Aston Lane, Remenham between its junctions with A4130 White Hill and Remenham Lane.

The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via Remenham Lane, Remenham Church Lane and A4130 White Hill or by this route in reverse.

Works requiring this restriction will take place between 7th September and 27th September 2022.

The reason for these prohibitions is to allow Gigaclear contractors to rectify blockages, undertake fibre optic installation and other 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 12th August 2022 and shall continue in force for a period not exceeding 18 months or until the works have been completed, whichever is the earlier.

N OTIFICATION OF APPLICATION FOR PLANNING PERMISSION UNDER ARTICLE 13 OF THE TOWN AND COUNTRY PLANNING (DEVELOPMENT MANAGEMENT PROCEDURE) (ENGLAND) ORDER 2015

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WOKINGHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL PLANNING APPLICATION The Town and Country Planning (Development Management Procedure) (England) Order 2015 AND/OR Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Regulations 1990 The following application(s) have been submitted and are advertised for the reasons below: Application Address

Description

Proposed development at: Land adjacent to Blagrove Lane, Wokingham.

Reasons for Advert

221797

I give notice that Berkeley Strategic Land Limited (the “applicant”) has submitted an outline planning application to Wokingham Borough Council for the following:

Crockers, Rushey Way, Earley

Major Application

Outline application with all matters reserved for the proposed erection of 10 no. dwellings following demolition of the existing dwelling.

221881

24 Denmark Street, Wokingham

Works to a listed building

Application for listed building consent for the proposed erection of 1 no. non-illuminated fascia sign.

“Outline application, with all matters reserved except for access, for up to 350 homes (Use Class C3), new access onto Barkham Road, community space (Use Class F2), landscaping and onsite SANG.” Any owner of the land or tenant who wishes to make representations about this application should write to the Council at Planning, Wokingham Borough Council, Shute End, Wokingham, Berkshire RG40 1BN or send an email to development.control@wokingham.gov.uk within 21 days of this notice.

Signed: Nicola Jones (for Lichfields) on behalf of Berkeley Strategic Land Limited Date: 21/07/2022 Statement of owners' right: The grant of planning permission does not affect the owners’ rights to retain or dispose of their property, unless there is some provision to the contrary in an agreement or in a lease.

Statement of agricultural tenants’ rights: The grant of a planning permission for non-agricultural development may affect agricultural tenant’s security of tenure.

‘Owner’ means a person having a freehold interest or a leasehold interest the unexpired term of which is not less than seven years.

‘Tenant’ means a tenant of an agricultural holding any part of which is comprised in the land.

GOODS VEHICLE OPERATOR’S LICENCE Penwood Transport Limited trading as Penwood Transport of Beech Tree House, St Johns Close, Mortimer, Berkshire, RG7 3SZ is applying for a license to use: Manor Farm, Binfield Road, Wokingham, Berkshire, RG40 5PP as an operating centre for 2 goods vehicles and 2 trailers.

Owners or occupiers of land (including buildings) near the operating centre(s) who believe that their use or enjoyment of that land would be affected, should make written representations to the Traffic Commissioner at Hillcrest House, 386 Harehills Lane, Leeds, LS9 6NF, stating their reasons, within 21 days of this notice.

Representors must at the same time send a copy of their representations to the applicant at the address given at the top of this notice.

A Guide to Making Representations is available from the Traffic Commissioner’s office.

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The application is available to view online at wokingham.gov.uk � Planning � Search planning applications and typing in the application number above. Comments on the application can be made online from this web page.

Any comments must arrive on or before the 11th August 2022. Any comments made are not confidential and can be seen by any one as they form part of the public record. The comments, unless offensive, discriminatory and/or racist, will appear on the Council’s website within 24 hours and include the submitted name and address. Due to the high volume of comments received we do not provide individual responses.

Date: 21st July 2022

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MEDIA SALES PEOPLE > I wish I could choose what days I work. (You can!) > I wish I could choose my hours. (You can!) > I wish I could choose if/when to go to the office. (You can!) > I wish I could choose the home/office/patch split. (You can!) > I wish I could have a job where I’m in control. (You can!) > I wish I could have a job where I’m paid properly for my results. (You can!)

Dated: 21st July 2022 Trevor Saunders Assistant Director – Delivery and Infrastructure Wokingham Borough Council Civic Offices Shute End Wokingham Berkshire RG40 1WL

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