RG10 Jan/Feb 2022

January/February 2022 | issue 92 | free

inside | Local news | Features | Puzzles | Food and Drink

Residential Sales Home from Home 0118 934 2470 | mullie@mullie.co.uk

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Please visit our website to learn more or contact Kate Spooner admissions@dolphinschool.com www.dolphinschool.com 0118 934 1277 | Waltham Road, Hurst, Berkshire, RG10 0FR

New year musings At the time of writing, the news is pretty gloomy, but at least we’re not back in lockdown like this time last year. Hooray for small mercies!

By the time you read this, Christmas will be over. I hope you enjoyed some special time with loved ones during the festive season.

This new year, let's focus on appreciating whatever is good in our lives and make time to prioritise our health and wellbeing. Perhaps you have a change of direction ahead in 2022, whether preparing for exams, considering a career change, or adopting new habits to support a healthier lifestyle.

You’ll find content around these themes within this magazine, together with feel-good stories such as the successful Twyford Tree Festival and local sustainable food charity Freely Fruity.

If you are among those in no hurry to get back to international travel, check out our ideas for a UK holiday designed to recharge the batteries.

Many thanks and very best wishes for a happy new year to all our readers and advertisers.

Please continue to support all our wonderful local businesses!

Contents Community 21

Twyford Tree Festival: Improving the local environment 22–23 Local news 29 Twyford Together news update Information and education 4 11 14

Look back in time Tutor Doctor: Preparing for GCSEs and A Levels Health: Alternatives to sugar

Business 7

Home Instead: A role in the care industry

Charity news 22–23 Freely Fruity: Sowing today for a sustainable tomorrow Time out 18 Children’s puzzle page 26–27 Books: Fresh starts | Painting and Poetry in a Pandemic 28 Quiz: Review of the year 30 Su doku, Spot the difference 31 General knowledge crossword 38 Puzzle solutions 39 Pantomimes Food and drink 40 41

Seasonal food: January Recipe: Ramen tofu noodle bowl

Index 42 Jan/Feb 2022 Issue 92 Advertiser information RG10 is a bimonthly magazine reaching 7,000 homes and busineses in Twyford, Ruscombe, Charvil, Hurst, Wargrave and Knowl Hill.

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The publisher does not endorse any advertiser featured. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without prior permission of the publisher.

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spot light

Home Instead A role in the care industry It quickly became clear that she’d made a great decision in becoming a Home Instead CAREGiver.

Cath explains: ‘I love my work. There is nothing more rewarding than helping people. I take one of my clients out to local garden centres for coffee and cake, and we always have lots of laughs together. Sometimes we are the only person a client may see all week – this was especially true during lockdown, when families couldn’t travel and social clubs were closed.

Cath Evans returned with her family to Wargrave in 2014, following the end of her husband’s work contract in Dubai.

Looking to get back into the workplace herself, Cath discovered local care company Home Instead, based in Ruscombe. Despite having no previous experience as a carer, she thought the role could work perfectly for her. After undertaking an initial 3-day training course, Cath was ready to start her new job supporting local people to stay safe and well in their own homes.

As she recalls: ‘When you are out of the job scene for some time, as I was when I lived in Dubai, you can lose confidence. So, I was quite nervous about my first client visit.’

However, with the training under her belt, the support of the office team behind her and the security of being accompanied by an experienced CAREGiver on her first few client calls, she soon took to her new role.

‘We are not just assisting people with day-to-day tasks such as getting dressed, light housework, preparing meals and other chores; we also play our part in combating loneliness. We see the same clients at their regular times, so we build such positive, trusting friendships. That’s so important, and it’s a pleasure for me to call this my job.

‘My clients live in my local area – Wargrave, Twyford and Henley – so I never have to travel far, and my work fits around my family life. I can work some evenings and some weekends, too, when my husband is at home with the kids.’

Two years ago, Cath also started working part time in the Ruscombe office, doing auditing and administration. ‘I continue to see my regular clients, though, as I didn’t want to stop CAREGiving totally – I’d miss them too much!

But I like the fact that we have the opportunity to take on different roles within Home Instead as well as working out in the community.

‘I would say to someone thinking about becoming a CAREGiver to just do it. How many other jobs enable you to make such a difference and put a smile on people’s faces every day?’

If you are looking for part-time work and think, like Cath, that a role in CAREGiving would suit you, find out more about Home Instead.

Speak to Gillian on 01628 299097 www.homeinstead.co.uk/maidenhead Please mention rg10 when responding to advertisements

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education

Tutor Doctor Reading Preparing for GCSE and A Level exams Mark and Jo Butler of Tutor Doctor have been providing tutors for families and schools in Reading since 2014. Covid has made GCSE and A Level exams very stressful for students over the last two years. Here they discuss how to be ready for whatever summer 2022 will bring. an Education Consultant in order for us to understand the student’s personal learning needs and style. After completing a brief for the student, we select the most appropriate tutor from our team of over 200 fully qualified local educators, checking their availability matches the student's.

Our interview process and safeguarding checks ensure that we only recruit the best local tutors.

Lessons may be delivered either in person or online, depending on the family’s preference. At this time of year many tutors are getting very busy, so we would recommend making enquiries soon if your child would benefit from exam preparation.

January is usually the time that GCSE and A Level students realise just how close the summer exams are. The good news is that they still have time to make a difference to their grades before starting their exams in May. Appointing a professional qualified tutor is an excellent way to help them understand those difficult maths concepts or how to create the perfect essay on Shakespeare.

Of course, a lot of hard work from the student themselves is essential: the tutors we work with focus not only on supporting curriculum work and developing exam technique but also helping to plan revision programmes.

After two years of assessed grades, it is still being debated exactly how the exams will be presented this year. Our advice is to assume that your children will be sitting public exams and to prepare accordingly. That way, not only will they be ready for whatever exam format is used, but also they will have completed their studies to the highest level and be fully prepared for their next academic year.

Find out more about how we can support GCSE and A Level students preparing for their exams: Please contact Mark on 0118 449 2191, by email to mbutler@tutordoctor.co.uk or visit www.tutor-doctor.co.uk/berkshire.

Tutor Doctor believe that the ideal tutor for any student is one suited to their own learning style and personality. The tutor must be able to develop a rapport, build self-confidence and help to instil effective revision and exam techniques. This is why we offer the family a free consultation with Please mention rg10 when responding to advertisements

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health

Alternatives to sugar Do you have a sweet tooth?

Normal sugar contains no nutrients, but as coconut sugar requires little processing it retains small amounts of iron, zinc, calcium, potassium and antioxidants.

Although a healthier option, coconut sugar should still be used sparingly as it holds the same number of calories as regular sugar.

Stevia The holy grail of sugar alternatives, stevia is a natural sweetener extracted from the leaves of a South American shrub. Unbelievably, it contains zero calories and is up to 350 times sweeter than sugar, so you need far less of it. This makes it the sweetener of choice for diabetics and anyone wishing to lose weight.

Whether you do or not, sugar is found in so many products that it can be hard to avoid. Blamed for everything from obesity to tooth decay, sugar has gone from being a symbol of wealth to a key factor in an international health crisis.

Yet it is found in so many products that it can be hard to avoid. Sugar’s addictive qualities, combined with its prevalence in everyday convenience foods, make it difficult to consume in safe quantities.

Thankfully, many healthier alternatives are now available, promising lower calories or higher nutrition. If improving your diet is among your New Year's Resolutions, here's a guide to the ever-growing world of sugar substitutes.

Honey Probably the most popular alternative sweetener on the market, honey is packed full of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Whilst more nutrientdense than sugar, it still poses some of the same health risks: it is just as high in calories and breaks down similarly into glucose and fructose.

Although non-chemical, stevia extracts have a noticeable aftertaste, so it’s worth trying the various forms available (e.g. powder and liquid) to find what you prefer.

Sugar alcohols A type of sweet carbohydrate, sugar alcohols are processed from plant fibres such as birch, berries and cornhusks, and contain around half the number of calories as regular sugar.

Don’t be deceived by the name, which comes from their chemical structure: sugar alcohols contain no ethanol – or sugar for that matter.

Unlike regular sugar, they don’t cause tooth decay or an increase in blood sugar levels. Plus, they’re low in fructose – sugar’s most harmful ingredient.

Examples are erythritol, xylitol and sorbitol - often found in sugar-free drinks, jams, sweets, chewing gum and sweetener brands such as Truvia.

Yacon syrup

Coconut sugar

Agave and maple syrups are hard to top, but less well known is the syrup extracted from the South American yacon plant. Sweet, dark and thick, it contains a special type of sugar molecule that our bodies cannot digest. This means that yacon syrup has just one third of the calories of regular sugar, making it a popular choice for losing weight.

Made from coconut palm sap, coconut sugar is another natural sweetener to consider if you’re looking to lower your sugar intake.

Its high fructan content has also linked it to an array of health benefits, from helping constipation to lowering blood sugar. What’s not to love?

That said, honey's soothing, healing qualities make it a great cold remedy, and it has also been linked to improved heart health and lower blood pressure.

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charity

Freely Fruity Sowing today for a sustainable tomorrow launched a website offering video growing guides and recipes, and gained a sizeable following on social media – not to mention recognition in the press, TV news and the BBC’s The One Show.

Making a difference Ryan, James and Matt are driven by a passion to make a difference: all their hard work is entirely voluntary and fitted in around their day jobs. The vision of team Freely Fruity is to create positive change by providing food for people and wildlife, reducing carbon emissions, educating for healthy eating, reducing food waste, developing a sharing community and inspiring the younger generation.

The back story A Sindlesham pub in early 2020… three friends enjoying a pint and the football. The conversation turned to dog walking – and how great it would be to have more fruit trees in local communities, accessible to everyone. So Freely Fruity was born, setting a mission to plant more fruit for people to enjoy for free. The trees would not only feed people and wildlife but also make a positive contribution to the fight against climate change.

Then the Covid pandemic struck. Finding themselves furloughed in the first lockdown, Ryan, Matt and James diverted all their energy into planting vegetables and fruit shrubs in a field offered by a landowner in Sindlesham.

Astonishingly, from a standing start, they and fellow volunteers have been able to donate close to three tonnes of fresh organic produce for distribution to families in need through local food banks and Covid hubs.

In this short time frame Freely Fruity has become a registered charity, forged strong links with complementary organisations and suppliers, attracted sponsors and volunteers,

Autumn/winter 2021/22 Following the end of the 2021 harvest season, Freely Fruity are now focusing back on planting fruit trees across the wider area. So far they have donated trees and organised planting events for several schools and care homes.

They have also created a community orchard of 100 apple trees at Winnersh Meadows, working with the Wokingham Community Garden Group and local Rotary Club.

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How you can help Freely Fruity relies totally on volunteers but does have expenses such as new plants, soil, seeds, compost, chippings, tools and other equipment. The team works hard to secure any grants available but welcomes any additional support offered by individuals and businesses in any of the following ways.

Hold a fundraiser such as a sporting challenge, cake sale or garage sale.

Donate directly – the preferred option is through LocalGiving, enabling the charity to benefit from a 25% Gift Aid supplement at no extra cost to you.

Do your shopping through Easyfundraising or Amazon Smile, first registering Freely Fruity as your chosen charity so that they receive a percentage of your purchase.

Having been watching the Freely Fruit story unfold with interest, I took the opportunity to catch up with co-founder Ryan Simpson at the Twyford Tree Festival held in late November.

The team contributed half a dozen apple trees for this community planting event at Stanlake Meadow. They also raised awareness for Freely Fruity’s activities by taking a stall, offering to the public free saplings and hundreds of strawberry plants along with advice for growing fruit and vegetables.

Purchase items from their Amazon Wishlist – vital materials needed to help them grow ever more produce in future.

Try your luck in the Reading Community Lottery for a chance to win up to £25,000, selecting Freely Fruity as your cause so they earn 50p per ticket purchased.

Business support – any seeking to adopt a new local charity, please email info@freely fruity.org. They would love to discuss partnering with you.

All the support links can be found on the website www.freelyfruityorg.

Finally, sharing is caring, so follow Freely Fruity on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter and help to spread the word about their work.

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twyford parish council

Twyford Tree Festival Improving the local environment Twyford Parish Council is committed to working with local organisations on its Climate Change Plan – and councillors have been visibly keen to make a difference within the village.

They worked with the Howard family to organise a community event last year, which saw residents plant over 80 trees at Stanlake Meadow. A further 30 trees were planted at the Twyford Tree Festival, held at the end of November during National Tree Week.

This new event was a celebration of not only tree planting but also other work that has been carried out at Stanlake Meadow. The Friends of Stanlake Copse working group have been creating woodland paths through the trees, and on the day of the festival they were building a stag beetle habitat. Next, they’ll be working jointly with the council to create an information board illustrating the fascinating life cycle of the stag beetle.

Twyford Tree Festival highlights: • Residents planted over 30 more trees • Freely Fruity kindly added to the mini orchard and gave away lots of lovely strawberry plants (and chocolates!)

• Families enjoyed eco activities and Christmas crafts with TRIP – Twyford Rethinks Its Plastic • Twyford Parish Councillors engaged with residents about the Neighbourhood Plan • High Voltage Singers got people into the festive spirit with Christmas carols • Martin demonstrated bugs in leaf litter via high tech viewing on a large screen • Stallholders showcased their groups and crafts • Twyford Comets raised funds for their Cuincy trip • The Toasty van kept everyone going with delicious hot food and drinks

Councillors also planted an oak tree in memory of Gordon Storey, a local resident of 42 years who contributed huge amounts of time, energy and ingenuity to many initiatives benefiting the village. Roy Mantel, Chairman of Twyford Parish Council, stated: ‘Gordon Storey, although not a parish councillor, did the work of a parish council all by himself.’

The tree was planted in the presence of Gordon’s wife Jo Jo and other family members.

Roy Mantel later summed up the event: ‘Nice winter sunshine helped to make the Twyford Tree Festival a great success. It was a hive of activity and demand for trees outstripped supplies. Hot food and drinks sustained the hungry workers, the community stalls were well supported, and the High Voltage Singers entertained us with carols. We are delighted that our residents enjoy contributing to the environmental improvements in the village.’

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Local news High Voltage Singers

as part of their Give a Little Love charity donation programme.

Chief Visionary Officer Fraser Cottington said: ‘LWT are honoured and excited to receive this donation. As soon as weather and access permit it, we will be building a new mini bird hut in the northwest corner of Lea Farm Lake to offer secluded views over the newly created marshy corner – yet more facilities for our wonderful members.’

The High Voltage Singers and friends hosted a wonderfully festive evening in a front garden in Twyford in early December. They’d like to thank everyone who came along to join in the music and seasonal refreshments and who helped to raise £540 in a raffle for the Macmillan nurses’ charity. A big thank you also to those who donated raffle prizes, sold tickets, served sausage rolls and mince pies and helped make it a memorable event.

High Voltage Singers entertained visitors by performing Christmas carols and other songs in four-part harmony, including their keyboard whizz and two Chuck Berry ‘playalikes’ rocking and rolling with Run, Rudolph, Run! The singers were also joined by the Senior Moments Guitarists and even Santa on his sleigh, thanks to Twyford District Round Table.

Lavells Wetland Trust Lavells Wetland Trust is a conservation charity that looks after a 46-acre nature reserve in the northern part of Dinton Pastures Country Park.

It organises monthly volunteer work parties to maintain the mixed wetland habitats for resident and migrating birds and other wildlife.

Anyone can join LWT by filling in a form on the website (see below). This is also a wonderful resource detailing the history of the area and recent sightings of birds and other wildlife.

This winter every new member’s name is being entered into a draw, giving them the chance to win a prize of a guided walk in the spring.

LWT volunteer needs have greatly increased both on and off the nature reserve, such that additional work parties are being held over the winter to complete tasks such as chainsaw work and planting. It’s not all heavy work: there are also roles organising refreshments for work parties and giving information to members of the public walking by. If you are interested in getting involved in LWT’s conservation work, please email info@lavells.org.uk.

Alternatively, if you are able to support the work of LWT by making a donation via the charity’s GoFundMe page, that would also be most welcome: please follow the link from the website www.lavells.org.uk.

LWT also looks after the paths and bird hides around the site, and hosts bird walks and information sessions for schools, Duke of Edinburgh students and other local groups.

At the beginning of December, LWT received a cheque for £1,000 from Waitrose in Woodley 22 rg10 January/February 2022. To advertise please call 0118 907 2510 or email nikki@rg10mag.com

Woodley Pensioners FC

Christmas Treecycling Wondering how to dispose of your real Christmas tree once the festivities are over? If you’re quick you can still reserve a slot to recycle it through the green scheme offered by Sue Ryder Duchess of Kent Hospice in Reading. Collections will be made from homes across various RG postcodes between Wednesday 12 and Saturday 15 January 2022, but bookings must be made by 9 January.

They will work in partnership with Just Helping, kindly supported by Arborfield Tree Care and G A Butler & Sons, to collect Christmas trees that are no longer required. They will then be chipped into mulch and recycled.

A donation is welcomed in return: by supporting the work of your local hospice team, Sue Ryder will be able to continue offering its compassionate palliative care and bereavement support services to help people make every moment count.

The FA-affiliated Woodley Pensioners Football Club provides opportunities for affordable exercise, fun and socialising in a friendly setting. Members play walking football: a slower, no-contact version of the game played on a shorter pitch.

The club welcomes players of all abilities and genders, whether for a friendly kick around or competitive games. Sessions are run by experienced coaches and first-aiders and are fully insured. The focus is on promoting the mental and physical wellbeing of members, on and off the pitch.

To find out more about Christmas Treecycling and book a collection, visit sueryder.org/doktrees by 9 January.

If you have any queries, contact the fundraising team at Sue Ryder Duchess of Kent Hospice: call 0118 955 0433 or send an email to dokh.fundraising@sueryder.org.

The club recently won the Male Team Award in the Wokingham Borough Sports Council Annual Sports Awards. This was in recognition of its ongoing commitment to promoting an active lifestyle, widening social circles, improving quality of life and keeping members in touch during lockdown.

For more details visit www.woodleypensionersfc.co.uk.

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books

Fresh starts Give your New Year’s resolutions a helping hand…

By Kate Duggan

Running Made Easy – Lisa Jackson and Susie Whalley Whether you’ve got your mind set on running a marathon this year, or you just want to complete Couch to 5K, this book could prove as invaluable as the right pair of trainers. Within its pages, you’ll find plenty of tips, running plans and advice, mainly aimed at beginner runners. Perhaps most importantly, however, you’ll also find lots of motivational real-life stories of people who’ve used running to dramatically improve their lives.

The Book of Hopes – Edited by Katherine Rundell This book brings together poems, short stories, essays and illustrations – all designed to ‘comfort, inspire and entertain’. It’s perfect for dipping into on a coffee break or when you’re in need of a moment of solace. While it’s aimed at children, there’s no reason why The Book of Hopes can’t be enjoyed just as much by adults. A beautiful book to give or receive.

Everyday Cook – Donal Skehan Is your New Year’s resolution to cook more meals from scratch? Most of the recipes in Everyday Cook are designed to take you from fridge to table within half an hour. (Some dishes can be whipped up in just fifteen minutes.) There are also meals to freeze for days when you really don’t have the energy to cook.

The recipes might be simple, but they’re far from boring. Think Cheat’s Spring Risotto, Kung Pao Chicken and Aubergine, and Spicy Prawn Aglio e Olio.

The Wildlife Gardener – Kate Bradbury British wildlife has declined dramatically over the last few decades. Once common species, such as the hedgehog, are under threat. If you want to play a role in helping to reverse the decline, this book is a good starting point. It’s packed with practical tips on encouraging all manner of wildlife into your garden. You’ll find step-by-step projects, ideas for plants and plenty of gorgeous photography. And you’ll also be taught how to identify some of your new garden visitors.

Farrow & Ball Recipes for Decorating – Joa Studholme Planning to refresh your home in 2022? Before you go anywhere near a paintbrush, get some advice and inspiration from the experts. Farrow & Ball’s no-nonsense guide covers everything from creating different moods using colour, to tackling common problems such as dark rooms and small spaces.

There are several case studies and tons of photos. Whether you’re craving an ultra-modern living room or want to bring some country-cottage comfort to your kitchen, this book is for you.

The Sustainable(ish) Living Guide – Jen Gale Going green can feel pretty daunting, but this book sets out small steps we can all take to help combat climate change, reduce plastic and cut waste. It’s about making more conscious, informed choices – from small swaps that you’ll barely notice to more impactful life changes. There are no lectures, no guilt trips and no preaching – just relatable, easy-to-read advice and ideas.

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Local author A topical book by a Twyford artist Poetry and Painting in a Pandemic is a beautiful hardback book featuring over 40 botanical paintings

by Lorna Minton, together with a similar number of rhyming poems by the artist documenting the pandemic. Written in a largely light-hearted style, some of the poems have been published previously in the local newspaper Wokingham Today.

Some earlier botanical watercolours are included in the book as well as those produced during the various lockdowns.

The book measures approximately 24cm by 16cm and can be purchased directly from the artist for £17.50 (plus £2.50 if requiring P&P withinthe UK).

If you would like the book to be sent to you or a gift recipient, you can order via her website www.lornaminton.com.

Alternatively, please contact Lorna if you wish to pay by cheque and collect locally: call 0118 934 5783 or email lornaminton53@gmail.com.

Reading is good for you!

This winter make time for reading.

Scientific studies suggest that just 30–45 minutes of reading per day can benefit our long term health.

Reading is a mindful activity which helps to: ●

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twyford together

News update

Hi folks

Christmas Fayre

I hope you all had a great Christmas.

Christmas tree lights switch on A lovely tree, a fantastic turnout by the Twyford public and snow right on cue were all features of a wonderful Sunday evening at the end of November.

The Christmas tree was decorated with baubles, lights and special Christmas wishes from the children of both the Colleton and Polehampton junior schools. Theresa May was on hand for the countdown and the snow began to fall shortly before the lights came on.

As always, there are so many people to thank: Amy Goodall-Smith of Goodall-Smith Wealth Management for sponsoring the tree provided by Nick Barnes of Treetop Landscapes. Parkers Estate Agents for supplying the electricity. Terri Martin and her Twyford Glee Club choir for their brilliant singing, and not forgetting Ian Wisdom who provided the sound system.

I’d also like to thank everyone who came out to help put up and decorate the tree earlier in the day, and of course the brilliant turnout in the evening that made the event so special.

The first Friday of December means only one thing in Twyford and that is the annual Christmas Fayre. It was wonderful to see so many people visiting all the fantastic stalls along London Road, enjoying the reindeer, food, mulled wine and entertainment. A HUGE thank you to all those who came along: we hope you had fun. You certainly helped to make it a magical evening, which put everyone in the mood for Christmas!

I’d like to thank the Christmas Fayre committee for all their time and considerable effort in putting on a fantastic event, and of course all our stall holders for supporting us.

Special thanks to Grapevine Estate Agents, Bridge House and The Louis Baylis Charitable Trust for their sponsorship this year.

Christmas hampers Once again, gift hampers were delivered to our elderly residents in place of holding a Christmas Tea Party. The boxes were laden with goodies, sourced from Hare Hatch Sheeplands and sponsored by Home Instead, The David Brownlow Charitable Foundation, RG10, Time Finders and Twyford Together.

Looking forward to 2022 There will be a packed agenda of events for the coming year, thanks to the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee adding to the normal schedule. Keep your eyes peeled for the March/April edition of RG10 magazine for more details.

Wishing you a happy and prosperous 2022.

Robin Yeadon Twyford Together Chair

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29

Sudoku

Level - hard

30 rg10 January/February 2022. To advertise please call 0118 907 2510 or email nikki@rg10mag.com

General Knowledge Crossword

Across 3. Onyx marble (9) 8. Crack in a lip caused usually by cold (4) 9. Pretending one set of feelings and acting under the influence of another (3-5) 10. Glacial period in Earth's history (3,3) 13. Greek muse of love poetry (5) 14. Painfully desirous of another's advantages (7) 15. Ugly, evil-looking old woman (3) 16. Citizen who has a legal right to vote (7) 17. Devoutly religious (5) 21. Breathe out (6) 22. Early Christian church (8) 23. Bake in a kiln so as to harden (4) 24. Apiarist (9)

Down 1. Copyist, scribe (9) 2. Implanted device that controls heartbeat (9) 4. Milky plant substance that coagulates on exposure to air (5) 5. Sell illicit products such as drugs or alcohol (7) 6. Unwanted email (4) 7. Fencing sword (4) 11. Mental illness in which the mind is dominated by a single thought or idea (9) 12. Of a triangle, having two sides of equal length(9) 14. Container used to store jam, dried fruit, etc (3) 15. Facility caring for the terminally ill (7) 18. Make cloth by interlacing threads (5) 19. Strong, forceful wind (4) 20. Mammal having partially webbed feet; valued for its fur (4) Please mention rg10 when responding to advertisements

31

General building, Extensions Kitchens & Bathrooms, Roofing Carpentry, Plumbing, Plastering

No job too small Professional & reliable | Reasonable rates Free estimates | Fully insured References and photos available

Robert Cox bocedevelopments@gmail.com

Home: 0118 934 3613 Mob: 07850 057249

Live well

your way

Your home is where you feel the most comfortable and the happiest. It is the place you know the best.

If you want to stay living well at home, Home Instead can help make that possible.

• Home Help

• Personal Care

• Companionship

• Dementia Care

01628 299 097

melissa.johnson@homeinstead.co.uk www.homeinstead.co.uk/maidenhead

Award winning support since 2012, from hourly care to live-in

32 rg10 January/February 2022. To advertise please call 0118 907 2510 or email nikki@rg10mag.com

Did you know?

• We are a Karndean Approved Retailer.

• Our fitting teams will move the furniture for you and uplift and dispose of existing floorcoverings.

Book your no obligation consultation today, or visit our fantastic showroom in Twyford!

Proud to be a member of

7 High Street, Twyford, RG10 9AB clare@thefloorstorecompany.co.uk | robert@thefloorstorecompany.co.uk

travel

Staycations Health and wellbeing holidays in the UK If the last two years have taught us anything, it’s that there’s nothing more important than our health. With the New Year’s resolution season now upon us, what better way to start than by planning a holiday dedicated to prioritising our body and mind?

Health and wellbeing holidays are the latest trend to hit the tourism market. In a world where the pace of life seems to get faster and faster, there’s a growing need for sanctuaries that allow us to slow down and take some time to focus on what’s important – our health.

Fortunately, there’s no need to travel far. The UK is packed with fitness, health and wellbeing escapes, from mindfulness retreats on the Isle of Wight to wellbeing festivals in Wales. Here are a handful of places in the south to get you thinking.

Our Retreat, Somerset This yoga and meditation retreat is hosted in a beautiful nineteenth-century farmhouse in the heart of idyllic countryside. A daily schedule typically includes morning meditation, restorative yin yoga or Pilates, breath work, sound baths and guided walks.

Don’t worry, you’ll still have the flexibility to do what you want too, with plenty of time carved out for reading, massages or simply dozing off in the sun. Throw in some wholesome meals and you have a retreat that’s guaranteed to nourish your mind, body and soul.

Skyros, the Isle of Wight Hosted at The Grange, a Georgian B&B with sweeping sea views and a spacious garden, Skyros is famous for its two, three and four-night courses that help you become the person you truly want to be.

From writing, comedy and photography to yoga, dance and wellbeing, there are holidays for everyone – whatever you’re into and whether you’re travelling solo or with friends. The location is pretty idyllic too; set in the south of the Isle of Wight, a stone’s throw from the sea, there’s plenty to do, see and explore nearby.

34 rg10 January/February 2022. To advertise please call 0118 907 2510 or email nikki@rg10mag.com

Birch, Hertfordshire Proof that you don’t always need to escape into deep countryside to slow down, this manor house hotel not far from London provides a creative space to recharge or embrace learning something new.

Take part in classes ranging from gong baths to sourdough and soda breadmaking, glassblowing workshops and yoga.

The five-star facilities enable you to start your day in the gym, swim some lengths in the outdoor pool and dine on homegrown food each day.

Yeotown, Devon This rustic-meets-luxury haven near Barnstaple is best known for its health and fitness programme.

Expect everything from long hikes along the North Devon coastline and bike rides in the forest to sunrise yoga and lessons on diet and nutrition.

There’s also a hot tub and sauna to make the most of relaxation time, not to mention healthy, vegan cuisine delicious enough to convert the most die-hard carnivore.

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35

Financial wellbeing is all about getting your ducks in a row It can be time-consuming and complex keeping on top of all the aspects of your financial planning.

Having access to an experienced local adviser with the backing of a FTSE 100 wealth management company will help you understand your current position and plan for a secure future.

●

Investment planning

●

Retirement planning

●

Financial protection

●

Intergenerational planning

Josephine Blythe DipPFS I have 30 years’ experience in helping individuals understand and manage their finances and plan for their futures.

I provide a comprehensive wealth management service offering advice tailored to you and your goals.

Contact me for a no-obligation initial consultation.

17 Sheeplands Farm, Wargrave, Berkshire RG10 8DL Proud to be a member of

Tel: 0118 313 0270 | 07956 277750 Email: josephine.blythe@sjpp.co.uk www.josephineblythe.co.uk

Josephine Blythe is an Appointed Representative of and represents only St. James's Place Wealth Management plc (which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority) for the purpose of advising solely on the group's wealth management products and services, more details of which are set out on the group's website www.sjp.co.uk/products.

36 rg10 January/February 2022. To advertise please call 0118 907 2510 or email nikki@rg10mag.com

ADD Plumbing & Heating Experienced plumber & heating engineer

Interior & Exterior Decorating No job too small Fully Insured Free Quotes Call Iain Tel: 01189 Mob:

343613 07740 431646

Free written estimates – no job too small Many positive testimonials from local residents ‘Trustworthy, reliable and efficient’ ‘Excellent attention to detail’ ‘Meticulous in his work’

0118 934 4624 07932 072912 addplumbingsolutions.co.uk

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37

Puzzle solutions

Crossword Across: 3 Alabaster 8 Chap 9 Two-faced 10 Ice age, 13 Erato 14 Jealous 15 Hag 16 Elector 17 Pious 21 Exhale 22 Basilica 23 Fire 24 Beekeeper.

Down: 1 Scrivener 2 Pacemaker 4 Latex 5 Bootleg 6 Spam 7 Épée 11 Monomania 12 Isosceles 14 Jar 15 Hospice 18 Weave 19 Gale 20 Mink.

Children’s page (left to right) Red square - 1 4 5 4 Blue square - 3 1 2 4 Green square - 2 4 0 3 Mitchell the monkey is saying, 'May I have a banana sandwich?'

A river A towel A hole

Quiz 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

Alan Turing Volkswagen Little Mix Boohoo.com Harry Kane and Harry Maguire Liverpool Bitcoin The Great Ouse Anthony Hopkins USA, China and Japan

Sudoku

Spot the difference 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

Pirate eyebrow missing Cutlass blade missing Parrot different colour Lock missing on treasure chest Pirate trousers different colour Pirate tongue missing Skull and crossbones on hat missing Crab mouth different Beach pebble missing Gem in treasure chest different colour

38 rg10 January/February 2022. To advertise please call 0118 907 2510 or email nikki@rg10mag.com

Pantomimes This January, why not book a family treat to see one (or more!) of the local village pantomimes?

It’s the perfect multi-generational activity, with something for audiences of all ages to enjoy.

Boo and hiss the villain, cheer the hero/heroine, fall in love with the animal/comic character, laugh at terrible jokes, sing along when invited to, argue oh no it isn’t / oh yes it is and perhaps also yell it’s behind you…!

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39

food and drink

Recipe

Ramen tofu noodle bowl This is such a light, refreshing soup and low in carbs too, thanks to the use of vegetable ‘noodles’. You could also use kelp noodles, or stick with regular noodles if you prefer.

Method 1.

Use a spiraliser to make long noodles from the courgette; alternatively use a swivel potato peeler to create long strips.

Set aside. If using kelp or regular noodles prepare according to instructions and drain well.

2.

Heat 1 tbsp oil in a frying pan and add the tofu. Sauté for 5 minutes over a medium-high heat until the tofu is lightly golden. Remove from the pan and set aside.

3.

Heat the remaining oil in a pan and sauté the spring onion and garlic for 1–2 minutes over a medium heat. Pour in the vegetable stock and bring to the boil. Add the pak choi and mushrooms and simmer for 5 minutes until the greens have wilted.

Stir in the miso paste, tamari soy sauce, beansprouts, tofu and courgette (or other) noodles and stir briefly. Turn off the heat and allow the soup to sit for 1–2 minutes to allow the noodles to soften.

4.

Ladle the soup into bowls and scatter over the sesame seeds and coriander to serve.

Ingredients • • • • • • • • • • •

1 medium courgette (or use 150g kelp noodles or cooked regular noodles) 1½ tbsp olive oil 450g firm tofu, drained and cut into 2cm cubes 2 spring onions, finely chopped 2 garlic cloves, crushed 600ml vegetable stock 2 pak choi, roughly chopped 150g shiitake mushrooms, sliced 1 tbsp white miso paste 2 tbsp tamari soy sauce Handful of beansprouts

To serve: • 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds • 1 tbsp chopped coriander leaves

Nutrition per serving: 176kcal, fat 10.6g (of which saturates 3g), carbohydrates 5.4g (of which sugars 3.7g), protein 14.5g

Serves: 4 Preparation time: 10 minutes Cooking time: 14 minutes

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41

Index Accounting 10 Starfish Accounting Advertising and marketing 35 RG10 Marketing Arts and crafts 24 HaaHoos Painting & Party Centre 27 Lorna Minton 6 VB Glass Art Building services 32 Boce Developments 6 The Loft Access Company Care providers 8 Bridge House of Twyford 37 Hightown Housing Association 7, 32 Home Instead Carpets and flooring 33 The Floor Store Charities 16–17 Freely Fruity Cleaning 9 All and Good House Cleaning Services 19 Oven Clean 28 OvenU 10 Peacock Carpet Cleaning Community 21 Twyford Parish Council 29 Twyford Together Domestic appliance repair 19 D&T Services Dressmaking and alterations 32 Can’t Sew Education 2 Dolphin School 11 Tutor Doctor Electricians 5 Westgate Electrical Services

Estate agents and property developers 1, 43 McCarthy Stone 1 Mullie 44 WentWorth Estate Agents Finance, insurance and legal 13 Benedict Charles Financial Planning 6 Blandy & Blandy Solicitors 36 Josephine Blythe 25 Vickers Young Florists 24 Beauty in Blooms Food and drink 25 Stanlake Park Wine Estate Garage doors 12 Garolla Gardens and landscaping 10 Cartmell Gardens 12 Hazelwood Tree Care 20 Twyford Landscapes Gifts 12

Phoxy Design

Kitchens and bathrooms 28 AHM Installations 15 Kitchen & Bathroom Place Painting and decorating 37 Cox Decorators 9 PB Decorating Plumbers 37 ADD Plumbing & Heating 25 JJ & SJ Plumbing 9 S Green Plumbing & Heating 10 Walterworks Plumbing & Heating Self storage 21 Sheeplands Farm New or returning advertisers are shown in green.

For more local services see our online directory at www.rg10mag.com

42 rg10 January/February 2022. To advertise please call 0118 907 2510 or email nikki@rg10mag.com

Similar to Nov/Dec 2019 advert. BUT alongside We include a Thank you NHS rainbow image, (The one provided is not good - in Dropbox - so probably n

please try sourcing avaluation different festive garland Contact us now for a FREE salesAlso and lettings

Finally the strip of logos below that now also need added.

Visit our website for our current properties Notes about item : www.wentworthea.com

CORRECTION: they want at the top WentWorth log before, Thank you NHS rainbow smaller and to the previous email.

The Old Butchers, 15 High Street, Twyford RG10 9AB Sales: 0118 934 0027 twyford@wentworthea.com

Lettings: 0118 934 3886 lettings@wentworthea.com