RG10 Jul/Aug 2021

July/August 2021 | issue 89 | free

Audio books Summer fun Outdoor activities inside | Local news | Features | Puzzles | Food and Drink | Competition

Safe summer fun Although the spread of the Delta variant has delayed the further easing of restrictions, hopefully these will still be lifted over the summer. I, for one, wasn’t planning to go nightclubbing any time soon – though I do miss my salsa classes!

What I AM looking forward to is a week’s holiday in Devon in early July. I hope you have something enjoyable lined up this summer.

Perhaps you are going camping, or exploring more of what’s available in our local area, or just spending time in the garden… In any case, you’ll find plenty of inspiration for activities and events in these pages.

We have camping with the kids, connecting with nature, features on Henley Arts Trail and sustainable activities for all the family, gardening tips, several food-related articles and audio books – for the ultimate hands-free/eyes closed enjoyment!

Articles on local organisations include two parish councils that have been undertaking green initiatives, the police with home safety advice for the summer, the charity Parenting Special Children, and Twyford Together wishing farewell to a pillar of the community who has moved away.

Business articles include a community-minded heating engineer, professional tutors with a business birthday, a home care provider with green fingers, and a specialist fitter of accessible bathrooms.

Don’t miss our new competition: I spent a good chunk of my childhood in the Far East and can vouch for the authenticity and quality of the food from Makan Malaysia!

Contents Summer fun 2 6–7 16 26–29

Beach safety Henley Arts Trail | Art in the Garden Camping with kids Local news | What’s on

Community 10 Thames Valley Police: Home safety in summer 32–33 Twyford Together: Au revoir Gordon Holmes Family and home 25 34 39 41 43 44

Parenting Special Children: 15th anniversary S Green Plumbing & Heating: Fundraising Tutor Doctor: Celebrating 7 years in Reading Home Instead: Gardening for all ages Smart gardening AHS Installations: Updating your bathroom?

Nature and environment 19 20–21 22 23

Nature Works Wonders: Noticing nature Plastic Free Home: Sustainable summer fun Ruscombe Parish Council: Green initiatives Twyford Parish Council: Twyford in Bloom

Time out 13 36 37 38 46 47

Books: Audio books for summer Su doku, Word search General knowledge crossword Children’s puzzle page Puzzle solutions Competition: Makan Malaysia feast bundle

Food and drink 40 48 49

Seasonal food News from local pubs and restaurants Recipe: Quinoa and feta burgers

Index 50 Jul/Aug 2021 Issue 89 Advertiser information RG10 is a bimonthly magazine reaching 7,000 homes and busineses in Twyford, Ruscombe, Charvil, Hurst, Wargrave and Knowl Hill.

Copy deadline for pre-booked advertising is 1st of previous even month. rg10 also offers screen based advertising at Twyford Surgery and an online directory at www.RG10mag.com.

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henley arts trail

10–11 and 17–18 July 2021

Just a snippet of the wonderful work to be seen on the Trail.

Above left: Jewellery

by Wendy Penrose Above: Lino print

by Sally Castle Far left: Painting by Claire Burriss Left: Ceramics by Debbie Page

The big HAT...

Following the cancellation of last year’s event, the Henley Arts Trail has bounced back with its biggest event to date. Happening over 2 weekends in July the Trail will take you to some great new venues where you can see the wonderful work that artists have been busy creating during lockdown. All in and around Henley and Twyford.

Just go to the website to plan your trail.

Please check the website for opening times as these may vary and may be subject to last minute change in these uncertain times.

FREE ENTRY to 40 venues over 2 weekends in July.

Over 200 artists on show. Some stunning locations.

Meet the artists. Huge variety of work.... paintings, sculpture, textile art, jewellery, glass and more!

www.henleyartstrail.com

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Art in the Garden – Venue 36

Above left: Painting by Sarah Pye Above right: Sculpture by Rhys Davis Far left: Garden Sculpture by Elliott of London

... and the Big Plant Nursery in Twyford And what better place to start than venue 36, the Big Plant Nursery in Twyford (just “Art in the Garden” display. It’s like visiting a show garden but with the added attraction of stunning artwork. garden sculpture (as well as some smaller pieces to suit any sized garden) all nestled among the beautiful and inspiring plants that the Big Plant Nursery is renowned for.

The Big Plant Nursery, Wargrave Road, Twyford RG10 9PN Open throughout the HAT week 10th - 18th July.

Times: Mon - Sat 9am - 5.30pm, Sun 11am - 5pm

Proud to be a sponsor of the Henley Arts Trail

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thames valley police

Community update Keep your home safe now and into the summer Are you advertising more than just your holiday? #DONTMAKEITEASY

• • • • •

With so many of us having been ‘locked down’ in our homes, the number of house burglaries has dropped over the past year. However, thieves are still out and about, and have been taking advantage of open doors and windows or poorly secured garages and sheds.

Whether you leave your home to go to work, pop to the shops, get some exercise in the fresh air or even if you are working in your back garden, you should take steps to make your home look occupied and ensure any accessible windows (ground floor or reachable) and doors are secure.

• Please lock all doors and windows at night.

If you have a UPVC door, remember to lift the handle and lock it with the key.

• Keep all valuables and keys, including car keys, out of sight and out of reach of windows and letterboxes. Double check your vehicle is locked and store keyless fobs in a suitable security pouch.

• Ensure side and rear gates are in good condition and locked to prevent access to the rear of the property. Move bins away from side walls and fences.

• Keep ladders and gardening tools securely locked away. Don’t leave them outside where they could be used to break into your home.

• Ensure sheds and garages are fully secured and security mark and register tools and other items you have stored there. Padlock

items such as bikes, lawnmowers and even BBQs. Think about chaining items to secure shelves and installing anchor points to which motor bikes or bicycles can be padlocked.

Cut back your shrubs and hedges to aid visibility.

Consider a timer switch for your radio and lights.

Service and maintain your burglar alarm.

If you go out in the evening, don’t leave your home in darkness.

If you decide to go on holiday this year, please do not advertise you are away on social media – wait until you are home to upload your holiday snaps. Please ask a trusted friend or neighbour to keep an eye on your home while you are away.

Further information and advice can be obtained from the Thames Valley Police website at www.thamesvalley.police.uk.

If you have any information regarding burglary or anyone committing offences, please report it online at www.thamesvalley.police.uk or call 101. Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on free phone 0800 555 111.

Contact us • Email: You can contact your local neighbourhood team via TwyfordN HPT@thamesvalley.pnn.police.uk – please note this email address cannot be used to report crimes or for any urgent matters.

• Facebook: TVP Bracknell & Wokingham • Twitter: @TVP_Wokingham • You can receive free information updates from Thames Valley Police by registering for Thames Valley Alert at: www.thamesvalleyalert.co.uk.

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books

Audio books Summer listening

by Kate Duggan

The right story in the hands of the right narrator makes for a perfect afternoon lounging in the garden.

Klara and the Sun – Kazuo Ishiguro (narrated by Sura Siu)

As an artificial friend, Klara’s job is to be a companion for a human child. When she’s chosen by Josie, Klara’s world starts to open up. She can now see much more than just the view from the shop window. The darkness of this dystopian world is revealed through Klara’s naive viewpoint. While Josie is clearly very ill, it’s her friend Rick who is seen by society as disadvantaged, as he’s not a ‘lifted’ child. A quietly beautiful, thought-provoking story.

The Stranger Times – C.K. McDonnell (narrated by Brendan McDonald) The Stranger Times newspaper reports on weird and wonderful tales from around the world – a dog eaten by a child’s drawing, a toilet possessed by the devil. While most of the tales are somewhat far-fetched, a very real supernatural danger could be a lot closer than the newspaper staff realise. If you love dry humour and urban fantasy, this audiobook will appeal.

Cunning Women – Elizabeth Lee (narrated by Taj Atwal)

People rely on Sarah’s family for healing balms, protection and the odd curse, but it’s the seventeenth century and whispers of witchcraft are never far away. Sarah is used to being an outcast, but a forbidden relationship with a farmer’s son gives her a glimpse of how different her life could be. A gripping story and talented narrator make this a must-read for historical fiction fans.

Night Watch – Terry Pratchett (narrated by Stephen Briggs)

Audiobooks might be having their heyday now, but it’s still worth delving into the back catalogue to discover gems like this one. Commander Sam Vimes is accidentally sent back in time, where he discovers he has the important job of stopping a rebellion from turning into a slaughter. He also needs to close down a torture chamber, clean up the city watch and keep his younger self from dying. Oh, and stop a murderous villain who travelled back with him. Easy…

Early Morning Riser – Katherine Heiny (narrated by Kate Rudd)

Jane meets Duncan soon after arriving in Boyne City. Falling for him is easy, but Duncan isn’t the settling down type. Everywhere Jane looks, there’s an ex with a prior claim to him. She does her best to move on, but a tragic accident sees Jane and Duncan taking on responsibilities neither of them planned for. An enjoyable taste of small-town American life by the author of Standard Deviation, Early Morning Riser is ideal for lazy summer afternoons.

Runaway Girls – Jacqueline Wilson (narrated by Mandeep Dhillon)

One for the kids… Lucy lives a financially privileged life in Victorian England but has little in the way of emotional comfort, so she runs away from home. Luckily for Lucy, she meets a street performer called Kitty, who has the wits to survive on London’s dangerous streets. The narrator does a skilful job of bringing an already engaging story to life. My twelve-year-old was hooked.

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family

Camping with kids Top tips to making sleeping under the stars a whole lot more enjoyable…

by Kate Duggan

Make sure you pack plenty of layers. You’ll appreciate a fleecy jumper when you’re huddled up sheltering from the rain. Speaking of rain, it can be difficult to get dry in a tent, so waterproofs are a good idea.

Eat, drink and be merry

Fly the flag If, like me, you have the navigation skills of Nemo’s best friend Dory, you may find yourself getting lost occasionally. A telescopic flag pole and windsock is a useful marker, particularly if you’re planning to give the kids a bit more freedom.

To wee or not to wee No one enjoys a 3am trek to the loo, so a portable toilet is your friend. A potty is fine for younger children, but you’ll need something a bit more substantial for older kids (and adults). If you have room, a bucket style loo is ideal. Otherwise, try a collapsible toilet. We recently bought the Bivvy Loo, which folds down small, supports up to 23 stone and comes with biodegradable bags and powder to transform liquid to gel.

Let there be light You’ll need headtorches to find your way around after dark. A rechargeable camping lantern is also useful for evenings (and those 3am toilet breaks). And a string of solar fairy lights around your door will help you to identify your tent at night. (They also look rather pretty.)

A decent night’s sleep Even the hottest British summer’s day can turn cool at night. Close-fitting PJs (or leggings and a T-shirt) will help to keep the warmth in.

A camping stove is essential for anything longer than a weekend break, even if you’re planning to mainly barbecue or eat out. Stick to easy-to-cook meals, from breakfast fry-ups to fajitas. Don’t have an electric hook up? A cool box with ice blocks makes a useful fridge.

You’ll need to refreeze the blocks each day, which you can usually do in the site shop.

My kids love ‘camping cereal’ (aka mini variety packs). Pour the milk directly into the cereal bag. No bowl = less washing up.

Ideally, start collecting condiment sachets a few weeks before your holiday, so you have plenty of ketchup, mayonnaise, vinegar etc. to see you through.

And what camping trip would be complete without toasting marshmallows?

Other essentials worth packing include: • Washing line – string it between your tent and a tree to dry swimming costumes on • Baby wipes – handy no matter how old the kids are • Dustpan and brush • Doormat • First aid kit • Extra-thick thermal socks (Heat Holders are ideal) • Gaffer tape for tackling leaks • Travel games, a ball and a frisbee

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nature

Nature Works Wonders We are a part of nature

Where to connect with nature

In his film A Life on Our Planet, David Attenborough asks us ‘to move from being apart from nature to becoming a part of nature once again.’

Look for nature wherever you go: even urban areas may have flowering weeds poking through pavements or buddleia growing wild on railway embankments and walls. Observe more closely the gardens and trees in your area. Develop a sense of child-like curiosity: you may even be inspired to look up the names of those flowering ‘weeds’!

Many of us have enjoyed reconnecting with it during lockdown: listening to birdsong, spending time in our gardens or going out for walks.

These activities make us feel good by using all our senses, drawing our attention outwards and giving our minds some respite.

Consider (re)starting a daily walk, perhaps picking up some litter as you go.

Improving nature connection (or connectedness) involves following initiatives to build closer, healthier and more sustainable relationships with the natural world.

The local area provides ample opportunity to immerse yourself in natural surroundings rich in wildlife: explore miles of interconnecting wetland habitats from Charvil Country Park and BBOWT's Loddon Nature Reserve in Twyford to Lavell’s Lake Nature Reserve and Dinton Pastures in Hurst.

Good examples are The Wildlife Trust’s 30 Days Wild month of June, self-guided trails and audio walks. For those seeking a deeper connection, there are more specialist activities available such as ‘natural mindfulness’ walks, immersive ‘forest bathing’ experiences and mindful nature photography.

There are some wonderful private gardens to visit this summer through the National Garden Scheme. The NGS website even has videos of virtual garden tours to enjoy on a rainy day! Or book a visit to Waltham Place, the biodynamic farm estate in White Waltham, for garden tours in small groups and nature-related talks.

Noticing nature

Allotment Week will run from 9 to 15 August, reminding us of the benefits of gardening for both physical and mental health - plus you can eat what you grow! Even sowing salad leaves or cress on a windowsill can bring satisfaction from observing the growing cycle of nature.

Gardeners can take their hobby to the next level by joining a local horticultural society and entering a show. Hurst Horticultural Society has its annual show on 21 August and Twyford & Ruscombe Horticultural Association is planning its autumn show for 11 September.

Such clubs are inexpensive to join and the shows create a lot of fun for all the family, with flower, craft and food classes to enter.

Bridge near Charvil Country Park

Whatever you choose, hopefully feeling more ‘part of nature’ will bring you joy and positivity as we move through the seasons.

Article by Nicolette Evans, The Curious Nature Connector. She runs Nature Works Wonders to help people fall back in love with nature and enjoy life again. Follow her nature observations on social media: @natureworkswondersuk | Blog: www.natureworkswonders.co.uk Please mention rg10 when responding to advertisements

19

environment

Plastic Free Home Sustainable summer fun

by Dave Lamont

involved. Check out the likes of Twyford & Charvil Running Club, Reading Roadrunners, Maidenhead Athletic Club and the Wargrave Runners; or Twyford Cycling Together, Reading Cycling Club and Bia Cycling.

Much has been written about how people have reconnected with nature and the outdoors during the pandemic, an outcome that Sir David Attenborough described as a ‘silver lining’ following a very difficult year.

We’ve acquired a greater appreciation of both the risks and rewards that nature can provide and have been reminded that the human race – and everyday life as we know it – are more fragile than we had realised.

This summer let’s all get outdoors and enjoy everything that nature has to offer, whilst minimising our impact on the environment.

Here are a few ideas to get you motivated!

Keep fit and have fun If you haven’t already been bitten by the running or cycling bug, now’s the time to get

Register for an outdoor fitness class – all you’ll need is an exercise mat and water bottle (refillable over disposable, of course!)

Check out FastTrack Fit Camp, which runs classes in and around Wokingham, or you can join in via Zoom from your own park or garden. In the past they have sometimes combined exercise with litter picking, AKA #FitterLitterPickers – fantastic!

If being out on the water is more your thing, why not hire a pedalo, paddleboard, canoe or kayak at the Dinton Pastures Activity Centre, or practice your rowing along the Thames in Henley?

Other classic outdoor activities range from climbing and swinging through the trees with Go Ape (available in Swinley Forest, Bracknell) to visiting a farm attraction such as Odd’s Farm Park near High Wycombe.

Enjoy the arts outdoors If you’ve missed the arts, you’ll enjoy outdoor performances this summer from local theatre companies including Progress Theatre and Rabble Theatre. Henley Arts Trail in July offers the opportunity to explore a wide area visiting creative studios and

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environment

Local update exhibition spaces, including an open air sculpture garden at the Big Plant Nursery in Wargrave. Caversham Court Gardens will play host to open air screenings of classic films ranging from Top Gun to Mama Mia this summer, with Dinton Pastures and Stubbings near Maidenhead also offering cinema al fresco. Looking ahead, Henley Festival follows in September, offering memorable evenings enjoying music and hospitality on the banks of the River Thames.

Get green fingered Spend time in the garden exploring ways to give nature a helping hand, from creating an area for wildflowers and planting pollinator friendly plants to adding bird feeders and nesting boxes or creating other wildlife habitats. Also consider installing compost bins and water butts, subsidised by our local councils.

Explore new surroundings We are spoiled for choice in the fantastic walks and places to visit in and around Berkshire. On our doorstep we have the likes of Dinton Pastures, while websites such as AllTrails can suggest walking routes through the countryside.

Check out the many nature reserves and sites managed by the Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire Wildlife Trust (e.g. Loddon Nature Reserve) and The National Trust (e.g. Greys Court, Cliveden, Dorneywood, West Wycombe Park and Basildon Park).

For garden inspiration, RHS Wisley and Kew Gardens are under an hour away – or look up local gardens open to visitors this summer through the National Garden Scheme.

And let’s not forget one of the most enjoyable activities – growing your own fruit and vegetables. If you need a bit more space, register with your local parish council for an allotment. In the meantime, take the family to ‘pick your own’ at Gray's Farm in Wokingham, Copas Farm in Cookham or West Green Fruits in Hartley Witney.

You may also want to support the Big Twyford Tree Planting Project’s second season this autumn, and/or look into planting more trees (with the landowner’s permission) available free through the Woodland Trust and your local school or community group.

Photo: Dinton Pastures

Created in 2018 by blogger and voluntary hack David Lamont, Plastic Free Home is an online community with over 32,000 followers that aims to seek and share ideas on how we can all live more sustainably. Visit www.theplasticfreehome.com or @plasticfreehomeuk on Facebook.

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environment

Ruscombe Parish Council Ruscombe embraces green initiatives preparation prior to planting of trees surrounded by wildflowers).

• Tidying both the village ponds, which are a delight for all the creatures and plants that flourish in this habitat.

• Publishing on the Ruscombe Parish Council website a new walking map of lovely routes through the surrounding countryside.

Preparation for community orchard at Pennfields Over the past year, Ruscombe Parish Council has mobilised a band of residents who appreciate the positive impact of improving the local environment, not only for the community but also their own mental health.

Key initiatives include: • Installation of 30 hanging baskets around the village, plus planters under the village signs, with more to follow.

• Joining Twyford in the Green Prescriptions scheme, helping people with mild mental health conditions through a local gardening scheme.

• Regular street litter picking by residents.

Further work on finalising the Ruscombe Village Plan, with the intention of ensuring that any new housing developments are appropriate for the village and improve the environment for all.

Paul Cassidy on behalf of Ruscombe Parish Council

• Two new lampposts installed to improve lighting and encourage more walking and cycling after dark.

• Commissioning of a mile-long bee highway alongside London Road, entailing rotavating the existing grass strip and seeding with wildflowers. The intention is to create a living pollinators highway direct into the centre of the village.

• Taking over the lease of a patch of land at Pennfields to create a community orchard with a selection of fruit trees for the use of residents (photo shows initial

Photo: Gary Ellis on Unsplash

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Twyford Parish Council Twyford enters regional contest for fifth time Thames & Chilterns in Bloom is one of 16 regional and national campaigns which make up Britain in Bloom with the RHS – Europe’s largest horticultural campaign.

Twyford has achieved an impressive track record since first entering in 2016. After receiving three silver-gilt awards in a row, the village proudly celebrated winning gold for the first time in 2019. The contest was not judged last year due to the coronavirus pandemic. The event will run again this year, albeit with a few twists such as a simplified format and remote judging.

the village; the Big Twyford Tree Planting Project and Stanlake Meadow Copse; the Climate Change Plan highlighting the Living Lampposts and the achievement of Plastic Free Community Status by TRIP – Twyford Rethinks its Plastic.

The bid will also pay homage to all the local volunteers for their excellent work.

The Thames & Chilterns in Bloom committee will present the following five awards for current and ongoing projects:

The Twyford in Bloom working group has also submitted an entry for It’s Your Neighbourhood 2021, in which judges will learn about community projects such as the Green Prescriptions/Twyford Growers initiative. This is a volunteer-led green prescribing project based at the Hurst Road allotments.

• • • • •

The Twyford in Bloom working group brings together groups of volunteers, local organisations, clubs and societies, schools and businesses who work throughout the year to enhance the environment.

Community Covid-19 project Conservation and wildlife Involving children and young people Managing the environment Pride of place

Entries had to be submitted by the end of May, followed by all supporting evidence, photos and videos by the end of June.

www.twyfordparishcouncil.gov.uk @twyfordparishcouncil

Twyford in Bloom Twyford Parish Council has taken over the coordination of the Twyford in Bloom bid, working closely with Twyford Together.

The Twyford in Bloom working group has chosen ‘Bees’ as the key theme for this year.

Within the bid they plan to showcase initiatives such as the Green Taskforce encompassing the Twyford Growers; wildflower and bee-friendly areas throughout

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charity

Parenting Special Children Local charity celebrates 15th birthday ensure that they receive the support they need.

These have expanded to include a wide range of topics such as sleep, trauma, transition into adulthood and child/adolescent-to-parent violence.

Parenting Special Children is proudly marking 15 years of supporting families in Berkshire.

The charity exists to improve the wellbeing of families of children and young people with any special need or disability (SEND), including those who have suffered early life trauma (foster and adoptive families), living in Berkshire and surrounding areas.

Parenting Special Children was founded in 2006 by Ruth Pearse, the CEO of the charity, to meet a need that she identified after receiving a diagnosis for her daughter. At that time, there was a lack of support and an accessible community for families at diagnosis. Very few specialist parenting programmes existed to enable families to learn more about the diagnosis that their child or young person had received and to connect with other families in a similar situation. Since then, the charity has gone from strength to strength, helping thousands of families and professionals in Berkshire.

In response to the needs of the families they work with, Parenting Special Children has grown considerably over 15 years. The charity now offers a trauma and attachment service, sleep service, support groups including community groups in the most deprived areas of Berkshire, Kinship and Dads/Male Carers group, family events. There is also a dedicated helpline, which saw a 50% increase in calls during lockdown.

In addition, the charity runs groups for young people including social interaction groups and an autistic girls’ group. In response to the complexity of issues being faced, Parenting Special Children has recently implemented a 1:1 family project offering a holistic approach to supporting the whole family.

Apart from being quick to respond to actual need, another key strength of Parenting Special Children is that 95% of the professional team, including the trustees, are parents of a child with SEND. They are therefore part of the SEND community with lived experience of the many challenges families face.

If you are a local business looking to partner with a local charity to help make a difference to the lives of local families, they would love to hear from you.

Families facing a broad range of adversities, such as social isolation, trauma, sleep issues, poor mental health and domestic abuse, are supported by the charity and receive specialist practitioner support through a variety of services.

Parenting Special Children stays true to its beginnings, identifying gaps in provision and empowering families by offering courses and workshops, both pre- and post-assessment, to

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25

Local news | What’s on It’s been a while, but there’s now more community news to report and, happily, plenty of events coming up in the local area – though obviously still subject to change with any new government guidelines.

We’ve included a selection of events within these local news pages to whet your appetite: more details are available on our online What’s On calendar at www.rg10mag.com. Do let us know of any other events worthy of sharing so we can add them!

Local news

Twyford & Ruscombe Theatre Group

Mobile refill shop comes to Twyford

Twyford’s theatre group is planning a return of its annual pantomime, performing Rapunzel on 14–16 January 2022 in Loddon Hall. There will be evening performances on Friday 14 and Saturday 15 January, and an afternoon matinée on Saturday 15 and Sunday 16 January.

Here's a way to shop more ethically and cut back on packaging: discover Refill Hub. Refill Hub founder Natasha brings her mobile shop, Martha the Van, to the Loddon Hall car park twice a month between 9am and 12 noon. She offers a wide range of loose dry food ingredients (think cereals, pulses, grains, rice and pasta, nuts and seeds, herbs and spices) plus oil and vinegar, maple syrup, and also ethically sourced household cleaning products and toiletries.

I recommend having a proper browse online at the products, making a list so you don’t forget anything, and taking plenty of your own clean containers, jars and bags: visit www.refill-hub.co.uk.

To check dates follow @marthathevan on Facebook or @refillhub on Instagram.

All are welcome to auditions for parts: auditions will take place on 21 and 23 September at Loddon Hall, where rehearsals will be held on Tuesday and Thursday evenings starting from 28 September. For more information visit www.twyrusdrama.org .uk or follow @twyrusdrama on Facebook or Twitter.

Hurst Pantomime Group Hurst Pantomime Group is also planning a return to the stage in January: rehearsals will begin in September for a new pantomime, A Lad in the Wild West, to be performed at Hurst Village Hall each evening from Wednesday 17 to Saturday 22 January 2022, with an additional show on the Saturday afternoon. Anyone curious is invited to attend the information evening at 7.30pm on Monday 6 September. For further details visit www.hurstpanto.org.uk or follow @hurstpanto on Facebook or Twitter.

Twyford Big Tree Planting Project You may remember the Twyford Big Tree Planting Project last year, facilitated by Twyford Parish Council.

Twyford Folk Music Workshop This group of musicians will restart their monthly meetings at 8pm on 7 July and every first Wednesday of the month thereafter. They meet at Loddon Hall in Twyford, which has plenty of car parking. They play traditional music from the British Isles, and the scores are available in advance.

If you play an acoustic melody instrument in C, can read music and are over 18, then check out www.twyfordmusic.uk for more information, sample scores, and contact details.

Organiser Rebecca Howard has been in touch with the sponsors of the 60 trees planted at Stanlake Meadow in late 2020, encouraging us all to revisit our saplings now and again and give them a helping hand by checking the supporting stakes and doing some watering and weeding.

Happily the RG10 hornbeam in the far corner is doing quite well, no thanks to us!

There are plans for a further 25 young trees to be planted later this year, as part of a tree festival in November that will include activities and workshops for the public to get involved in.

Further details to follow!

26 rg10 July/August 2021. To advertise please call 0118 907 2510 or email nikki@rg10mag.com

D of E Bronze bakes for Age Concern Local charity Twyford & District Age Concern supports Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme students, often benefiting members of its Twyford day centre at the same time.

Here is Centre Manager Debs Heffernan with student Olivia Martin, who has now achieved her Bronze Award, together with one of the cakes she made for the lucky day care members.

If you have any questions or are interested in going along to try them out, please contact Unit Leader Nina on 07988 068326.

Dinton delights Dinton Pastures Country Park just south of Hurst offers not only beautiful walks around the lakes, excellent playgrounds, The Dragonfly Café with plenty of outdoor space, boat hire and other activities; there are also some special events to look forward to over the summer.

The open-air cinema returns on 30–31 July, 13–14 August and 27–29 August with late evening shows of Back to the Future, Dirty Dancing, Dark Knight, The Greatest Showman, 10 Things I Hate About You, Mean Girls and Grease.

There are several events based around kayaks or SUPs (stand-up paddle boards): the Doggy Paddle on Saturday 24 July and Sunday 15 August, the Sunset SUP on Saturday 24 July, SUPper on the Lake on Friday 6 August, and the Perseids Meteor Shower Paddle on Friday 13 August.

New this year is the Dinton Country Show on Lea Heath on Sunday 8 August, promising arena demonstrations, craft and food marquees, live music and a traditional Ferris wheel.

For fans of live music there’s also Marvellous Festival returning in July see below.

Come and try 1st Knowl Hill and Waltham Guides Are you a girl aged between 10 and 14 (or turning 10 soon)? How would you like to join a local Guides group between 7pm and 9pm on a Friday night?

1st Knowl Hill and Waltham Guides are a very friendly small unit, with their own outdoor space in Knowl Hill.

Their five leaders enjoy creating a programme with as many varied activities as possible. They have a passion for the outdoors and aim to give the girls many adventurous experiences.

Having their own campsite enables them to enjoy the outdoors all year round. They hold weekend camps as a unit and also join other groups for larger Division and Region camps, allowing them to make new friends and get the most of out of Girlguiding UK. 1st Knowl Hill and Waltham Guides welcome girls from across the local area, from Knowl Hill and the Walthams to Maidenhead, Hurley, Bisham and Twyford.

For more information, visit www.dinton-pastures .co.uk/whats-on-guide and follow @dintonpasturescp on Facebook or Instagram.

Festival fever Marvellous Festival This family-friendly tribute band music festival returns to Dinton Pastures over the weekend of 17–18 July. There’ll be live music on two stages hosting a wide choice of excellent tribute acts, plenty of entertainment, food and drink plus camping or glamping options.

Visit www.marvellousfestivals.com for the full lowdown.

Henley Festival The prestigious riverside music event has been delayed from its usual midsummer dates and is now due to run from Wednesday 15 to Sunday 19 September in the usual fabulous location synonymous with Henley Royal Regatta.

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Local news | What’s on (continued) Festival tickets bought in advance for July 2020 or July 2021 will remain valid, with most of the original acts having been reconfirmed for the new dates. The headline acts are Madness, James Blunt, Sophie Ellis-Bextor, Sara Cox presenting Just Can’t Get Enough 80s, Disco Classical featuring Kathy Sledge, and (new) Don’t Stop Me Now, a rock and symphonic spectacular featuring the music of Queen, Abba and the Bee Gees.

Henley Festival Summer Fling That’s not all! The organisers are putting on a new pop-up event, a three-night summer party running from Thursday 8 to Saturday 10 July. This once-only event is sure to be popular, offering bands, celebrity DJ sets and other entertainment such as a vintage fun fair, street food and bars.

For full information and tickets for either the main Henley Festival or the Summer Fling, visit www.henley-festival.co.uk.

Pub in the Park, Marlow Tom Kerridge’s epic foodie festival Pub in the Park will be back in Marlow from Thursday 16 to Sunday 19 September. This year, members of the public are being invited to nominate local health care heroes and key workers to receive a pair of complimentary tickets to attend on the Thursday.

The initiative is being called A Thousand Thank Yous because 200 tickets are being reserved per event, across eight Pub in the Park locations running across the UK between June and September.

super friendly marshals around a clearly marked route, fruit at the finish together with a very nice medal (or opt to dedicate a tree instead).

Trophies and prizes will be awarded to the winners in various categories.

This year there is the additional option of registering to take part virtually – still running, obviously! – but at a location of your choosing within 4 days of the race date. For full details or to enter visit www.barnesfitness.co.uk.

Sonning 10k Barnes Fitness is also organising the family-friendly Sonning 10k event on Sunday 4 July. There’s a 5k route too, with both options starting at the Berkshire County Sports Club (BCSC) clubhouse in Sonning Lane and taking in the beautiful village of Sonning and the Thames Path. The kids’ fun run will be held on grass over a 2km course within the BCSC grounds. All races will be chip timed.

Let’s hear it for horticulture As far as horticultural shows go, nothing beats a real in-person event with all the produce and creativity on public display together with the awards made by the judges. Happily, families in two local communities are busy growing their fruit, veg and flowers or planning their entries in other classes, in preparation for shows coming up in the not-too-distant future.

Hurst Horticultural Show

Tom Kerridge said: ‘Key workers have been the true superheroes of this pandemic, and we want to say thanks by offering 1,000 complimentary tickets per region we visit so these superstars can let their hair down while enjoying some awesome music and lush grub.’

Hurst’s annual horticultural show is due to take place on Saturday 21 August in Hurst Village Halls. Classes cover not only horticulture but also baking, cooking, preserves, handicraft, art and photography. Visit www.hursthorticulturalshow.org.

From NHS workers and carers to refuse teams, teachers and cleaners – any of these essential members of our communities will be eligible for nomination. Nominate your local hero at www.pubintheparkuk.com/a-thousand -thank-yous.

Twyford & Ruscombe Horticultural Association

Running order Dinton Summer Series The last two races in this year’s Dinton Summer Series will be held on the evenings of Thursdays 8 July and 12 August. This is a friendly, well-established event by Barnes Fitness welcoming runners of all abilities to enjoy a flat off-road course around Dinton Pastures Country Park over 5km or 10km.

Participants can expect chip timing, event photos,

The TRHA Autumn Show will be held on Saturday 11 September in Loddon Hall. The classes will be the same as published in the Show Schedule for 2020, except for the Children’s Class, 121, which will be awarded for the largest pumpkin grown from seed provided by TRHA. Visit www.trha.org.uk.

More music and theatre Kenton Theatre, Henley This summer, the historic Kenton Theatre will see a range of performances both on stage and also out in the community. In a new initiative, the

28 rg10 July/August 2021. To advertise please call 0118 907 2510 or email nikki@rg10mag.com

Kenton Theatre Summer Road Show 2021 will feature events in local open spaces across July and August.

It does sound fabulous: children will love having a picnic and watching Wind in the Willows – actually sitting under the willows! That production runs from 29 to 31 July at Peel Fold off Mill Lane.

The fun kicks off on 24 July with The Three Musketeers at Henley Rugby Club and ends with The History of Soul in the theatre on Saturday 14 August. Along the way there’s a comedy night, a bit of Gilbert & Sullivan and a tribute to Elvis…

For full details visit www.kentontheatre.co.uk.

Please also consider donating to the ‘Kenton for Keeps’ fundraising campaign to help Henley’s Grand Old Lady (now 216 years old) survive the latest challenge posed by loss of income due to Covid. The original ‘Kenton for Keeps’ campaign enabled the theatre’s trustees to purchase the freehold of the building back in 2011 and no doubt fans will wish to secure its future for generations to come.

South Hill Park, Bracknell As well as offering free live music on the terrace on selected weekends through the summer, South Hill Park is planning a return of its Festival of Food and Music on Sunday 29 and Monday 30 August.

This is a fantastic event for all ages, showcasing a wealth of music plus a range of food and drink from a variety of suppliers in beautiful grounds.

Just turn up: entry is free but obviously stallholders will charge for food, drink or activities.

Live music has been serenading people enjoying the terrace of the Atrium Restaurant since late May, with dates remaining on Sunday 4 and 11 July, Saturday 17 and 24 July, and Sunday 8 August. See the website for details of performers, from a vintage songstress and a singer-songwriter-guitarist to bands playing upbeat funk, soft rock, pop and country.

South Hill Park Arts Centre is determined that the shows will go on, so please support them by attending their live events and consider donating to the South Hill Park fundraising campaign, also available via the website: www.southhillpark.org.uk.

The Mill at Sonning The only dinner theatre in the UK is set in a beautifully restored mill on the bank of the Thames. The Mill at Sonning provides a very

special experience, whether popping in for a coffee or drink at the Water Wheel Bar or terrace (open 11am to 5pm Tuesday to Sunday) or enjoying the whole Mill experience: lunch or dinner followed by a show in the theatre.

You can catch the Alan Ayckbourn comedy Relatively Speaking until the end of July, then from 5 August enjoy Ray Cooney’s farce Two Into One. Performances are interspersed with all the musical shows and concerts that had to be postponed last year, so do check the website for full listings: www.millatsonning.com.

Ready, steady, regatta Henley Royal Regatta The big one is now due to take place from 11 to 15 August in Henley, not at Dorney Lake, which had been one of the options being considered earlier in the year. The six-week delay obviously poses significant challenges to organisers, suppliers, clubs and competitors, and the regatta will most likely be staged with limited site infrastructure and reduced spectator attendance, but at least it should be back! Visit www.hrr.co.uk.

Wargrave & Shiplake Regatta Sadly, in May the committee took the decision to cancel this year’s event, which would normally have taken place the first Friday and Saturday in August. Even if all lockdown measures were lifted in late June, it would still have been very difficult to line up everything necessary.

Furthermore, as the announcement explained: ‘In so many ways, Wargrave & Shiplake Regatta is a free-form, open event: as much a 2-village picnic – meeting friends, socialising and having fun on the riverbank – as a racing regatta. We pride ourselves on a relaxed family approach and delivering this in the face of current COVID requirements would have been a very real challenge without compromising the character of the event.’

Ending on a more positive note: ‘You can be sure we WILL be back bolder, brighter – and maybe even better!’ So be sure to put in your diary Friday 5 and Saturday 6 August 2022…

See the website for more about the Wargrave & Shiplake Regatta and the fierce and friendly rivalry between two villages on either side of the River Thames, coming together for generations racing the traditional rivercraft of skiffs, punts and canoes. Visit www.wsregatta.co.uk.

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29

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twyford together

Au revoir to Gordon Holmes and volunteers. He was inspirational, caring, and supportive.’

Patrick Heather, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, said: ‘We were very fortunate to have Gordon as our Centre Manager and equally so when Gordon returned as a trustee. He was influential in guiding the centre during the lockdown and involved in its successful re-opening. I wish him and Penny many happy years over in Bromyard.’

Twyford Twinning Association

After 23 years living in Charvil, Gordon and Penny Holmes have moved to their new home in Bromyard, Herefordshire.

With typical modesty, Gordon kept a low profile and liked to think he slipped under the radar, so I suspect many RG10 readers may not be aware just what a significant driving force he has been in the area over the years. This is our opportunity to set the record straight!

Age Concern Twyford & District Day Centre I first met Gordon at a ‘Twyford Village Partnership’ (now Twyford Together) business networking meeting at La Fontana many years ago. On that occasion he enthusiastically explained his role at Utility Warehouse. A few years later he took over as the Day Centre Manager for Age Concern Twyford & District. He set about the role in a similarly committed manner, helping to upgrade the centre into a popular place for the elderly to go and enjoy all the activities on offer.

Gordon was involved in Twinning Twyford with Cuincy, France. Marielle Patterson (centre) had this to say about Gordon: ‘Meeting Gordon Holmes for the first time in his capacity as the then Deputy Chairman of Twyford Twinning Association, after being persuaded to get involved myself, was a pleasure. He is the kind of person that puts you at ease straight away and makes you feel welcome.

'Three years on, the Twinning Association is growing in numbers despite the past year curbing our activities. Gordon has been the driving force behind the many initiatives to date: the inaugural charter signings here and in Cuincy, football, art, concerts, school visits and always the stalwart manning the stand at village events.

“They say you should give a busy person another job: well, Gordon had three! Deputy Chairman, Secretary and Treasurer. He will be a hard act to follow and we wish him and Penny all the best as we bid them “au revoir”!’

In my role as a trustee, I have witnessed his dedication and drive to make the day centre the best it could be. His successor, Debs Heffernan, said ‘Gordon is a person who always sees the good in people. He was an incredibly special manager, always respecting his staff members 32 rg10 July/August 2021. To advertise please call 0118 907 2510 or email nikki@rg10mag.com

Twyford Rethinks Its Plastic (TRIP) Gordon was a founding member of Twyford Rethinks Its Plastic (TRIP), which was set up to reduce the use locally of single use plastics. He was largely responsible for Twyford being awarded ‘Plastic Free Community’ status by Surfers Against Sewage last year.

Updates

Gordon encouraged businesses to reduce their plastic use and now Twyford can boast several local businesses who are Plastic Free Champions!

Thanks to everyone who donated to our crowdfunding page in memory of Gordon Storey. Your generosity raised over £3,000 for local charities. One of those that Gordon supported most, Age Concern Twyford & District, recently held a private event for family and guests to hang an iconic picture of him in the day centre.

We're busy planning a few events, Covid permitting, so keep up to date by following our Facebook page.

We hope to arrange a get-together at Buratta's this summer for representatives of local businesses, charities and sports clubs.

Other volunteering and fundraising In addition to all of the above, for many years Gordon has been involved in all sorts of charity events and has helped to raise thousands of pounds for many deserving charities. Gordon was particularly fond of fundraisers that involved a passion of his, golf, having been a member of Hennerton Golf Club in Wargrave for many years.

Most recently Gordon has served as the Secretary of Twyford Together; his help has been invaluable to me and others at Twyford Together.

So, au revoir Gordon – we are all indebted to you for everything you have achieved for our community, and we wish you and Penny many years of happiness in your new home.

Robin Yeadon Twyford Together Chair

Look out for news of the return of the Twyford Charity Family Fun Run in October.

The Twyford Christmas Fayre committee is already planning this year's event for Friday 3 December.

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33

house and garden

S Green Plumbing & Heating Service your boiler to benefit local charities Each year he pledges to donate £10 for every boiler service booked during the months of July and August.

A standard boiler service still costs just £72.

The fundraising idea has enabled S Green Plumbing & Heating to donate hundreds of pounds each year to local charities such as Building for the Future, Camp Mohawk and Daisy’s Dream.

The idea is a win-win for all: • • Ruscombe-based heating engineer Stephen Green is once again calling on RG10 residents to book in their boiler service over the summer in order to boost his annual fundraising for local charities.

•

Peace of mind for homeowners and landlords before the heating goes back on Fundraising boost for the charities – much needed after the loss of income during the pandemic Fewer emergency call-outs for S Green Plumbing & Heating during autumn and winter.

Book in your boiler service today!

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Ruminating on Retirement?

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Sudoku

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36 rg10 July/August 2021. To advertise please call 0118 907 2510 or email nikki@rg10mag.com

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Down Across nish dance in triple Australian a young 1 1 Australian term forterm a youngfor kangaroo (4) kanga 7 Spanish dance intime triple (6) time (6) 2 State of extreme delight or exaltation (7,6) 8 Acid found in vinegar (6) d found in vinegar (6) 2 State of extreme delight or exalta 3 Heavenly body also known as Sirius (3,4) 9 Funeral pile (4) eral pile (4) Heavenly also 4 3 Small canoe madebody watertight withknown animal as Sir 10 Chinese port city on the estuary of the nese portYangtze city on (5) (8) the 4 skins Small canoe made watertight ary of11the Yangtze 5 Period of the French skins Revolution Receptacle used(8) by smokers (7) with animal (5)marked by extreme repression and bloodshed (5,2,6) 13 Non-metallic element, atomic number 5 (5) eptacle used by smokers (7) Period of resembling the French Revolution 6 5 Sleeveless dress an apron (8) 15 Racing vessel (5) -metallic element, by extreme repression 16 Small falcon that hovers in the air (7) 12 Pilemarked of waste matter from coal mining, mic number 5 (5) game bird (8) and bloodshed (5,2,6) etc (4,4) 18 Long-tailed 19 Red(5) eruption of the skin (4) 146 Flower associated with alpineresembling regions (7) ing vessel Sleeveless dress an a 21 Small, roofed building affording shade 17 Craftsman who works with stone (5) all falconand that hovers 12 Pilejazz of where waste matter fromare rest (6) 20 Singing nonsense syllables e air (7) coal mining, etc (4,4) 22 Hooded waterproof jacket (6) substituted for the words of the song (4)

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37

education

Tutor Doctor Celebrating 7 years of Tutor Doctor in Reading Mark and Jo Butler of Tutor Doctor have been providing tutors for families and schools in Reading since 2014. In May this year they marked 7 years in business. detailed consultations we offer to families, we are able to ensure that the right tutor is in place each and every time. Jo adds: ‘High quality professional tuition can be the key to better grades in school. Results are vital of course, but it’s the added confidence and enjoyment of learning we see in the children we teach that gives us the greatest thrill.’

Nominated for a prestigious British Franchise Award Mark and Jo Butler launched their Reading based tutoring business in May 2014. In those seven years they have been nominated for national awards, have been recognised as the largest franchise in the company’s network and are known as Reading’s number one tutoring company.

Mark, Jo and their team provide excellent tutors for our children. We have used them for 6 years now with both our children, from age 12-18 and 11-15 years old. They provide prompt service when you are looking for a tutor and listen carefully to you to help match the right tutor for your child's needs. I really recommend them.

Mark was previously in the creative and media industry while Jo had been a State Registered Podiatrist. Mark says: ‘This was a dramatic change in direction for both of us. We wanted to create a business that would make a difference in the local community. It’s been an amazing seven years and the number of lives we have impacted in that time has been incredible.’

To put this into numbers, Mark and Jo have tutored close to 1,600 students since they began and have provided work for over 900 tutors locally.

I have been using Tutor Doctor Reading for over 3 years.

Mark visited us and had a long chat with my son about his educational needs and since then his team have been providing teachers for various subjects. The matching has been excellent and the teachers have all been very good.

Most importantly the tutoring has improved my son's scores and made him more confident. Money well spent – Kudos to Mark and his team; will recommend them any time.

And there is more to come, as Jo explains: ‘The company has expanded into Surrey and now covers Reading, Maidenhead, Wokingham, Walton-on-Thames, Weybridge and Kingston. We have an excellent track record as our students achieve great marks in SATS, GCSEs and A-Levels, and we have supported many students as they prepare for 11+ and School Entrance Exams.’ Additionally, Jo is very excited by the Tutor Doctor Bursary. ‘We created this to support less able and disadvantaged students. The bursary funds tuition for three post-16 students as they continue their education into the sixth form, hopefully providing a platform for them to go to university or find an excellent apprenticeship as they begin their career.’

Happy seventh birthday to Mark and Jo and their Tutor Doctor business. They have supported many local families in their first seven years and are keen to multiply that number in the next seven.

Find them at tutordoctor.co.uk or call 0118 449 2191.

Talking about their approach, Mark says that ‘Tutor Doctor’s philosophy has always been to match the perfect tutor for each child. This is achieved by carefully recruiting every single tutor so we know their specific skills and approach to teaching. Coupled with the Please mention rg10 when responding to advertisements

39

family

Home Instead Gardening for all ages Pick your plants carefully Choosing plants that are easy to maintain and able to withstand a variety of conditions is essential for an easy gardening experience. This ultimately makes gardening less strenuous overall. Easy-to-grow crops include spring onions, broad beans and carrots. If your soil is poor, try growing hardy crops such as rosemary, sage or thyme, which smell beautiful in the garden and can be used in cooking.

Check paths and decking Gardening can be a great activity for the young or old. It’s satisfying, productive and a very good way to stay active and get some fresh air. Age can make some tasks harder, but here are some top tips on how to make gardening a safe and fun activity no matter what your age.

Build raised beds Raised beds make gardening easier if you struggle to stretch or bend down to the plants.

They are much easier to weed and maintain, as you can perch on the side and use a trowel to plant and weed.

Try container gardening Essentially, this means planting into a pot or container of your choice. You can place the garden virtually anywhere so that it’s easily accessible – but remember to use lightweight containers for extra easy handling.

Look at the surface of paths to check they don’t get slippery at any time of the year. Wood can also get very slippery, so keep an eye on decking.

Algae and moss present risks.

Use the right equipment Using long-handled forks and spades will mean less digging. Choose tools that are lightweight to prevent arm, shoulder and back injuries. Use a stool or chair to save your legs from having to squat or kneel.

Work within your limits and enjoy Only take on what you can manage and don’t overdo things. Make sure you stretch between activities and swap around regularly: for example, a bit of digging, a bit of watering, a bit of pruning.

Most importantly, have fun!

Following these top tips will enable you to do your gardening safely and effectively.

Home Instead proudly sponsors Love Your Garden with Alan Titchmarsh, returning to ITV in July at 8pm on Mondays. We have ten boxes of our Sensory Seed kits to give away. Each kit contains Lavender (smell), Greater Quaking Grass (sound), Spearmint (taste), Sunflowers (sight) and Silver Sage (touch), all of which are fantastic for anyone with sensory loss or dementia – or who just enjoys beautiful plants! Boxes will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis. If you would like to be a lucky recipient, just call 01628 299097 or email melissa.johnson@homeinstead.co.uk quoting RG10 Magazine.

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gardening

Smart gardening If you want more time to enjoy your garden, there’s plenty you can do to reduce the maintenance work lifted and replanted each year – often seem able to withstand the winter without this effort.

Perennials

Soil condition Get your soil in good condition before planting, by digging in bulky organic matter such as compost, well-rotted manure or leaf mould. This improves soil fertility and moisture retention.

Mulch flower beds and borders, and vegetable and fruit areas too. This hugely reduces the time you need to spend watering, weeding and generally titivating your plants. Make sure the soil is moist before you apply the mulch, to help it retain moisture during dry conditions.

Remove big or deep-rooted weeds such as dandelions before you mulch; once in place the mulch will help prevent smaller and annual weeds from appearing.

Big containers Containers make for a lot more work than flowerbeds, as plants in a container are totally dependent on you for food and water. Grow as much as you can in the soil and choose pots and planters that are as big as possible and incorporate controlled-release fertiliser and moisture-retaining granules at planting time.

Grow lots of bulbs; they are great labour-saving plants, as once planted they reappear every year with little need for care. In the current warmer climate even those plants like dahlias, gladioli and tulips – which traditionally were

Grow lots of relatively short herbaceous perennials i.e. plants that reappear every spring and die back late in the season, as they are more low-effort than annuals, which need planting and removing every year. Varieties that are relatively short and sturdy are less likely to flop and should not require support.

If plants do need staking or supporting, the quickest, easiest way to do this is to drive a few 45-60cm twiggy sticks, taken when you’ve had to cut back shrubs or trees, into the soil around the base of the plant. Twiggy sticks are unobtrusive and attractive enough to be left in place all year round, with no need for you to keep replacing them.

Shrubs Shrubs are great plants, as once established they need little effort and often provide colour and interest for more than one season. If you want to minimise your input even further, go for shrubs such as Chaenomeles, rhododendrons and azaleas, deciduous cotoneasters and Magnolia stellate, which need little, if any, pruning.

Grow ground cover plants – either herbaceous perennials or low-growing shrubby plants.

These don’t need a lot of maintenance and will soon cover bare soil, meaning less weeding will be needed. Dense groundcover reduces evaporation from the soil and so also makes for less watering time. Plants such as Cistus x hybridus, lavenders and rosemaries work well on a dry site. Other good choices include hypericum, Euonymus fortune and Cotoneaster dammeri.

At www.pippagreenwood.com you’ll find a range of pet-and-wildlife-friendly biocontrols, Speedweeders, the fantastic SpeedHoe, signed books and more.

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43

bathrooms

AHM Installations Updating your bathroom? safely. They wanted to have their downstairs study and toilet knocked together to form one large wetroom. This may sound like a job for a builder, but AHM have all the skills and experience you need.

‘We created a completely new space from scratch’, said Charles Weeks, Bathroom Surveyor at AHM. The dividing wall was knocked down, a new ceiling was put in and a new extractor fan was installed. The fuse board, which was previously situated in the study, was moved out into the hallway – a complex electrical job. Light switches were moved and a shaving socket was added, all to make the room easier for Mr Booth to use.

AHM Installations takes the hassle out of finding the right tradespeople.

When you’re updating your bathroom, naturally the style of shower, basin and tiles are important.

But there may be structural work needed too – AHM Installations can do it all.

The family are clearly delighted with their new wetroom: ‘AHM is an absolutely wonderful company – we couldn't recommend it more. It's made such a difference to Dad and to all of us.

Amazing designers and the men who fitted it were wonderful, polite and patient.’

AHM often have jobs that require structural work.

For example, you could create a bigger bathroom by removing a wall or create a new ensuite bathroom by adding a wall. If you wanted a more powerful shower the electric cables could need updating. A floor might need taking up to examine the pipework underneath.

‘We frequently have to do electrical work to ensure our bathrooms meet regulations,’ said Terry Filler, technical surveyor at AHM. ‘If you want to upgrade or move your shower, you need to make sure all of your electrics are up to date before you do anything else.

A good installations company doesn’t shy away from this type of work, ensuring instead that your bathroom is safe, that it meets regulations and that it works for you. The last thing you want in your bathroom is dodgy electrics!

‘And we have another job happening at the moment, where someone is having their garage converted into a bathroom.’

The Booth family called AHM Installations for advice as their father, who uses a wheelchair, was struggling to access the bathroom easily and

AHM take the hassle out of organising the tradespeople you need to complete the job. All their fitters are members of BIKBBI, which means they are DBS checked, fully insured and continually monitored.

AHM Installations is a family-run firm installing safe, affordable bathrooms for people with limited mobility.

Call us on 0118 911 1062 to discuss your needs.

Member of the British Healthcare Trades Association (BHTA) | Checkatrade score 10/10 (May 2021) 44 rg10 July/August 2021. To advertise please call 0118 907 2510 or email nikki@rg10mag.com

Get Your Oven’s Sparkle Back Before

Ovens Filters ● Hobs ● Grills ● BBQs ● Ranges ● Extractors ● Microwaves ● AGAs

White Goods Repairs & Cleaning After

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I’m simply delighted at how sparkly clean my oven and hob look now! It really does look like the cooker is brand new again!

Call Trevor & Dominic or go online for your FREE quote

07397 394232 or 0800 840 7127 ovenclean.com

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Ovens Fridges Freezers

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Washing Machines Dishwashers Tumble Dryers

End of Tenancy Cleans | Patio Cleaning Gutter Cleaning | Man and a Van Services Grass Cutting

Call 07397 394232 for a free NO OBLIGATION quote from either Dom or Trevor Cox

Need an emergency plumber or heating engineer?

Call Chris on 07909 937419

See website for more information

walterworksplumbingandheating.com Please mention rg10 when responding to advertisements

45

Puzzle solutions

Crossword

Children’s page

Across: 7 Bolero, 8 Acetic, 9 Pyre, 10 Shanghai, 11 Ashtray, 13 Boron, 15 Yacht, 16 Kestrel, 18 Pheasant, 19 Rash, 21 Gazebo, 22 Anorak.

Down: 1 Joey, 2 Seventh heaven, 3 Dog Star, 4 Kayak, 5 Reign of Terror, 6 Pinafore, 12 Slag heap, 14 Gentian, 17 Mason, 20 Scat.

Spot the difference 1. Flag on sandcastle different colour 2. Seagull facing other way 3. Spade in boy’s hand missing 4. Swingball different colour 5. Bow on boy’s trunks missing 6. Naughty boy mouth different 7. Seaweed door missing on sandcastle 8. Trunks on boy 2 different colour 9. Starfish missing 10. Crab eyes shut

Wordsearch

Hidden phrase: One swallow does not make a summer (Aristotle)

Sudoku

4 3 5 8 9 6 7 1 2

1 6 9 7 5 2 3 4 8

2 7 8 3 4 1 9 5 6

6 4 1 5 8 3 2 7 9

5 9 2 6 1 7 4 8 3

3 8 7 4 2 9 5 6 1

46 rg10 July/August 2021. To advertise please call 0118 907 2510 or email nikki@rg10mag.com

8 5 3 9 6 4 1 2 7

7 1 6 2 3 5 8 9 4

9 2 4 1 7 8 6 3 5

Competition Our competitions are open to anyone living within the RG10 postcode area.

Enter online via the competitions page at www.rg10mag.com.

Winner(s) will be drawn at random from all valid entries received. They will be contacted as soon as possible confirming details of their prize.

For entries to be valid, you must:

Congratulations to our last competition winner, Julie Gwynn in Twyford, who will be enjoying a three-course meal for two plus a bottle of house wine at the Boathouse at Boulters Lock.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Enter by the deadline given Agree to the T&Cs on our website State which competition you are entering Provide any answers requested Give your address with an RG10 postcode as well as an email and phone contact.

Makan Malaysia was created by Kat and Sue – the talented twosome and best friends from the Far East that turned their love for the Malaysian cuisine they grew up with into a thriving business. Based in Reading, Kat and Sue are on a mission to share the food and culture they love through food deliveries, pop-up events and supper clubs. Makan = Eat! Malaysian cuisine is influenced by Chinese, Indian, Tamil, Portuguese, Dutch, Arab and Javanese flavours, to name just a few.

Makan Malaysia are kindly offering RG10 readers the chance to win a fabulous prize: The Malaysian feast bundle.

This includes everything you need for a festive feast, glitzy gathering, leave-lockdown-behind luncheon or party: you can wow your guests with a meal that's different but delicious. There’s something for everyone – literally: the feast bundle feeds at least six people, with leftovers!

Good news: Readers of RG10 can sample the Makan Malaysia deliciousness using this discount code for 10% off your first order, valid until 1 September 2021: RG10MAKAN How does it work? Orders are placed by Sunday and are sent out the following Wednesday on a next day delivery service nationwide. The food is freshly prepared, vacuum sealed, insulated with eco-friendly reusable packaging and delivered by UPS: just refrigerate and heat up when you’re ready! (Can be frozen for up to three months.) www.makanmalaysia.co.uk

Competition entry deadline: 6pm on Sunday 1 August 2021. Winner will be notified by RG10 as quickly as possible; the prize voucher will be sent out by email directly from Makan Malaysia (valid for 3 months).

Prize is for the Malaysian feast bundle worth £75: no cash equivalent available.

Please mention rg10 when responding to advertisements

47

food and drink

News All change at the Bird in Hand

Jimmy’s Taste of Henley Pop-Up If you’re reading this before 13 July, there’s still

time to check out Jimmy Garcia’s Taste of Henley Pop-Up at Upper Thames Rowing Club in Remenham – the perfect spot for river watching, dining and drinking. There’s also a BBQ street food offer with no need to book – ideal for combining with a riverside walk.

To find out more, visit www.jimmyspopup.com /a-taste-of-henley.

St George & Dragon Dine at Home Following Butcombe Brewing Co’s recent acquisition of the Bird in Hand, this Knowl Hill pub, restaurant and hotel has been given a new lease of life, with lots of exciting changes and a new team led by managers Will and Hannah.

Expect all-day dining with stunning new menus offering seasonal dishes and exciting takes on pub classics, all created with the best locally sourced ingredients and produce. Leading the brigade in the kitchen is Head Chef Samuel, who has previous experience at The White Oak, Cookham, and the Michelin starred Royal Oak, Paley Street. Behind the bar it’s all about the award-winning Butcombe real ale and craft beer, plus a great selection of wine and cocktails.

The Bird in Hand has a spacious outside courtyard, perfect for al fresco drinking and dining during the warmer months, with food and drink easily ordered to your table via the Butcombe App. Looking for somewhere to rest your head?

The Bird in Hand offers 21 cosy and comfy bedrooms – ideal for business stays or as a base to explore the local area.

This riverside pub in Wargrave has launched a brand-new Dine at Home service to bring delicious, seasonal dishes to your home in just a few clicks. It’s perfect for nights when you feel like indulging without lifting a finger!

Order on the day at www.stgeorgeanddragon .co.uk/takeaway, selecting the time you wish to collect and then choosing from the wide range of dishes on offer.

Heron on the Ford garden revamp It was great to see this destination pub in Charvil choosing to work with one of our long-term advertisers earlier this summer.

Andy Ward at Twyford Landscapes helped them transform their outdoor space in a project involving levelling a bank, installing new fencing and wooden planters, and laying top soil and new turf. (More pictures on Facebook @heronontheford.)

Before

After

01628 826622 butcombe.com/bird-in-hand-berkshire @birdinhandknowlhill 48 rg10 July/August 2021. To advertise please call 0118 907 2510 or email nikki@rg10mag.com

Recipe Quinoa and feta burgers A vegetarian burger packed with flavour and topped with a simple tomato relish.

Preparation time: 15 minutes Cooking time: 40 Minutes Makes 6 burgers

Ingredients

Method

• 80g / scant ½ cup quinoa • 2 tsp vegetable bouillon powder or a vegetable stock cube • 2 tbsp olive oil • ½ red onion, finely chopped • 2 garlic cloves, crushed • 1 tsp ground cumin • 1 x 400g can kidney beans, drained • 115g / 4oz feta cheese, crumbled • 1 tbsp parsley, chopped • 1 tbsp mint, chopped • 2 tbsp cornflour • Salt and pepper • 4 tomatoes, quartered • 1 red onion, quartered • 1 tbsp olive oil • ½ small chipotle chilli, soaked in warm water for 20 minutes • 1 tbsp fresh coriander • 2 tsp xylitol • 2 tsp balsamic vinegar

1.

Add the quinoa to 250ml water with the bouillon powder or stock cube and bring to the boil. Lower the heat, cover and simmer for 15 minutes until cooked. Keep the lid on and let the quinoa sit in the pan for another 10 minutes. Place in a bowl.

2.

For the relish, preheat the oven to 1180C / fan 160C / gas mark 4 and place the tomatoes and onion on a baking tray. Drizzle over the oil and cook in the oven for 15 minutes until soft. Place in a food processor with the remaining ingredients and pulse to form a thick and chunky puree. Allow to cool.

3.

Heat 1 tbsp of the olive oil in frying pan. Add the onion, garlic and cumin. Cook, stirring for about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Add the beans, feta and cooked quinoa. Stir in the herbs and cornflour and mash with potato masher to break up the beans. When cool enough to handle, divide into 6 portions and shape into burgers.

4.

Heat the remaining olive oil in large frying pan on a medium-high heat. Add the burgers and cook until browned or each side, about 5–6 minutes.

5.

To serve, place the burgers into buns and add the toppings of your choice.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION PER SERVING: Calories per burger with relish (no bun): 215kcal, protein 8.5g, carbohydrates 24g (of which sugars 6.2g), fat 9.7g (of which saturates 3.4g) Please mention rg10 when responding to advertisements

49

Index Accounting 30 Starfish Accounting Advertising and marketing 11 RG10 Marketing Arts and crafts 14 HaaHoos Painting & Party Centre 6–7 Henley Arts Trail Building services 17 Boce Developments 45 Just Brickwork 14 The Loft Access Company Care providers 2 Bridge House of Twyford 8 Hightown Housing Association 24, 41 Home Instead Carpets and flooring 18 The Floor Store Charities 25 Cleaning 12 45 8 8 Community 20–21 22 10 23 32–33

Parenting Special Children All and Good House Cleaning Services Oven Clean OvenU Peacock Carpet Cleaning

Florists 30

Plastic Free Home Ruscombe Parish Council Thames Valley Police Twyford Parish Council Twyford Together

Dressmaking and alterations 4 Can’t Sew

Beauty in Blooms

Food and drink 12, 48 The Bird in Hand 47 Makan Malaysia Gardens and landscaping 7 The Big Plant Nursery 30 Cartmell Gardens 42 Twyford Landscapes Hair and beauty 4 Dani Louise Health and wellbeing 24 DōTERRA Essential Oils IT support 11

PC Knight

Kitchens and bathrooms 14, 44 AHM Installations 31 Kitchen & Bathroom Place Nature 19

Domestic appliances 45 D&T Services

Education 39

Finance, insurance and legal 9 Benedict Charles Financial Planning 4 Blandy & Blandy Solicitors 35 Josephine Blythe 17 Vickers Young

Nature Works Wonders

Painting and decorating 12 Cox Decorators 11 PB Decorating Plumbers 24 15 34 45

ADD Plumbing & Heating JJ & SJ Plumbing S Green Plumbing & Heating Walterworks Plumbing & Heating

Self storage 17 Sheeplands Farm Tutor Doctor

Electricians 5 Westgate Electrical Services Estate agents and property developers 51 McCarthy Stone

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

50 rg10 July/August 2021. To advertise please call 0118 907 2510 or email nikki@rg10mag.com