RG10 Nov/Dec 2022

13th anniversary edition

Feeling autumnal

There’s a proper chill in the air now, and bonfire night is upon us. Then the count down to Christmas begins…

With energy prices going through the roof, it’s probably colder than usual at home too. So snuggle up in your favourite jumper and socks, make yourself a hot chocolate and settle down to read your latest RG10 magazine. Believe it or not, this marks thirteen years since our first edition in 2009!

Throughout that time it’s been a privilege and a pleasure to observe, celebrate and feel part of our wonderful local communities.

I recently enjoyed catching up with lots of people at the 10th Twyford Charity 5K and Fun Run. Talking of which, did you hear the event featured on The RG10 Podcast?

Thriving communities have plenty of clubs and societies, local initiatives to offer support where needed, and a good range of small local businesses offering excellent service and that personal touch – all of which I hope you’ll see reflected in the

of 2022

for all

support this year.

Together Community Awards

Proud

Twyford Together Awards: Business of the Year winner 2012 | Twyford Tradesmen Together award winner 2017

Stanlake Park Wine Estate

Established in 1979, Stanlake Park in Twyford is one of the oldest wine producers in England. Since 2019 it has been run by hardworking couple Nico Centonze, an Italian winemaker, and Natalia Pezzone, an Argentinian wine expert. Their fascinating story is well worth sharing…

Nico was born into a winemaking family in Puglia. He attended the Viticulture and Oenology University in Tuscany, then Piedmont. It was here that he met his soulmate, Natalia, who was working as a vet in Turin. It soon became clear that they shared a love of travel.

By coincidence, Nico's first winemaker role was in Argentina, Natalia’s home country. From here, he returned to Puglia to help with the family vineyard whilst Natalia worked as a researcher in Madrid. She moved to Italy in 2010 after deliberately missing her flight home to Argentina. So began a new career in wine – and life with Nico.

When the wanderlust returned, the couple packed their bags for the UK, where Nico secured a position at Nyetimber in West Sussex. After the harvest season they relocated to Bordeaux in France.

During this time, Nico was offered a Head Winemaker role at a winery in Romania. With their taste for adventure, the opportunity was too good to turn down. Nico has always been attracted to the less mainstream winemaking countries. Here there is still room for experimentation, innovation and creativity, allowing winemakers more freedom than under the established protocols of the large, modern wineries of France and Italy.

After Romania, the couple decided it was time to work for themselves and moved back to Italy with plans to start up their own winery. However, the opportunity they desired eluded them, due in part to the level of Italian bureaucracy and taxes!

By 2018, seeking a fresh start elsewhere, they turned their gaze to the country they loved most during their travels: England.

Making wine in England

The owners of Stanlake Park were looking for a new winemaker with passion and fresh ideas. It was clear on meeting the couple that they would be the perfect team. Having faced different challenges together and taken many

tough decisions over the years, Nico and Natalia had proved to be resilient and eager for success: an ideal match for the tricky winemaking conditions in England.

The couple could see that Stanlake Park had enormous untapped potential. It was one of the oldest and largest vineyards in the area, with ten acres of vines across the 130-acre estate. Plus the rustic charm of the buildings and stunning grounds made it an attractive location for wine tourism. Natalia couldn’t believe her eyes: in place of stainless-steel tanks, here were charming barns and walls older than her own country! She saw the 15th century walled garden and imagined people sitting by the vines enjoying a glass of wine. It felt perfect.

It was clear there was a lot to do, so they set to work. Within the first year, Nico introduced a number of award-winning new wines, while Natalia’s dynamic ideas brought rapid growth with successful tours and tastings, a tripling in sales figures and the shop and wine bar packed with people every weekend.

Today, the local community is grateful to have such a fine establishment on their doorstep, attracting over 10,000 visitors a year from far and wide. Nico and Natalia are now supported by a team of 16 people who help them to make exciting, high quality English wines, always ensuring that custom ers remain at the heart of what they do.

Stanlake Park Wine Estate is open every day. Customers can purchase the wines in the Cellar Shop together with quality gifts and accessories. The Wine Bar serves wine by the glass or bottle, alongside local craft beers, cider, cocktails, non-alcoholic drinks, coffees, cream teas and also cheese and charcuterie boards.

Wine Tours, Tastings and Events are run all year round: booking is required. Weddings and holiday accommodation are also offered at the estate. For details, visit www.stanlakepark.com

Festive events and shopping guide

Christmas lights and carol singing

Henley Christmas Festival, Friday 25 Novem ber, 7–9pm

Woodley Christmas Illuminations and Carols, Saturday 26 November, 4.30–5.30pm

Twyford Together at Bell Corner, Sunday 27 November, 5pm

St Nicholas Night by Hurst pond, Sunday 4 December, 5.30pm

Seeing Santa

Santa travelling the villages on his sleigh Follow Twyford & District Round Table on Facebook for his itinerary.

Father Christmas grotto, Moss End Garden Village, Bracknell

19–20 November, 26–27 November, 10–11 December, 16–24 December

Santa’s Grotto and Breakfast with Santa Hare Hatch Sheeplands, Twyford Multiple dates from 3 to 24 December

Getting creative

Winter Wonderland Pots & Pinot sessions and Christmas workshops, HaaHoos, Twyford See HaaHoos advert for dates, starting 6pm

Festive scents essential oils blending, Micklems Farm, Knowl Hill, Sunday 13 November, 10am–4pm

Learn about these wonderful oils and create your own signature home scent.

Festive decorations in glass, Micklems Farm, Knowl Hill, Wednesday 7 December, 10am–4pm

Create a fused glass table centrepiece or sparkling tree decorations.

Christmas craft workshops, Waltham Place, White Waltham, Tuesday 13 December, 9am, 11.30am and 2pm

Create a door wreath or swag, a table centrepiece or a garland for mantelpiece or bannister.

Wreath making workshops, Micklems Farm, Knowl Hill, 12–15 and 18 December, 10am–1pm

Create a wreath from a selection of natural components, ribbons and lights, with mulled wine and mince pies.

Gift vouchers for creative workshops and art courses, Micklems Farm, Knowl Hill

A wonderful idea for a Christmas present.

Christmas wreath making courses with Sonning Flowers, Stanlake Park Wine Estate, Thursday 24 November and Wednesday 7 December, 5.30–7 pm

Create a wreath using moss, foliage and other traditional decorations, over a deli board and drink in the cosy wine bar.

Being active

First Days Children’s Charity Glow Walk, Dinton Activity Centre

Saturday 26 November, 5pm–8pm

Alexander Devine Santa Dash, Windsor Sunday 27 November, from 8am

Barnes Fitness Santa Dash, Dinton Pastures

Saturday 17 December, 10.30am for 2km and 11am for 5km

Markets, fairs and exhibitions

Craft and Design Fair, South Hill Park, Bracknell

Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 November, 10am–5pm

Christmas Market at Sindlesham Court, Wokingham

Saturday 19 November, 10am–4pm

0118

Windsor Christmas Shopping Fair, Royal Windsor Racecourse

Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 November, 10am–4pm

The Christmas Fair at Ascot, Ascot Racecourse

Thursday 24 to Sunday 27 November, 9.30am–5pm

Henley Christmas Fair, Stonor Park Thursday 24 to Sunday 27 November, 10am–5pm

Henley Christmas Festival, town centre shops, stalls and fair Friday 25 November, 5pm–7pm

White Waltham School Christmas Market

Saturday 26 November, 4–7pm

Norden Farm Christmas Market, Maidenhead

Saturday 26 November, 12–4pm and Friday 2 December, 6–9pm

Henley Craft Market, Market Place

Sunday 27 November, 9am–3pm

Charvil Art Group 50th Anniversary Exhibition, Charvil Village Hall

Sunday 27 November, 10.30am–5pm

Wokingham Winter Carnival, Wokingham town centre

Sunday 27 November, 10am–4.30pm

Twyford Christmas Fayre, village centre

Friday 2 December, 6–9pm

St Nicholas Hurst Christmas Market, Large Village Hall (indoor and outdoor)

Saturday 3 December, 11.30am–3pm

Milestones Museum Christmas Market,

Basingstoke

Saturday 3 and Sunday 4 December, 10am–4pm

Woodley Christmas Extravaganza, Woodley town centre

Sunday 4 December, 10am–3pm

Caversham Christmas Gala, St Andrew's Hall Sunday 4 December, 2–6pm

Reading Indie Christmas Market, Double Barrelled Brewery Sunday 4 December, 1–6pm

Henley Craft & Gift Market, Market Place Saturday 10 December, 10am–4pm

For more details about any events, see the What’s On calendar at www.rg10mag.com. Please check with organisers nearer the time in case of any changes.

The Polehampton Charity

Celebrating 300 years

churches, clubs and institutions in Twyford, Ruscombe, and now also Charvil. In addition, charitable and educational grants may be awarded to individuals.

In July 2022, the trust finally entered into a formal arrangement with Wokingham Borough Council to convert the old Polehampton School building into a library and public amenity centre benefiting the residents of local villages.

This is a highly satisfactory outcome to several years of discussions involving the trustees, council representatives and other interested parties, including much dedicat ed work by the late David Turner. Once the work is complete, the converted building will offer significant improvements for local communities.

The Polehampton Charity was founded by Edward Polehampton (c. 1651–1722).

Originally from Inkpen, near Newbury, he endowed Twyford and Ruscombe with land and properties – possibly in gratitude for the kindness received from local residents when he passed through the area in 1666 on his way to make his mark in London. After building a successful career as a painter and stainer in the City of London, he became the most important benefactor in the history of the villages. Modern day inhabitants continue to enjoy the benefits of his legacy...

In line with the wishes of its founder, the trust makes grants to local schools,

With a new structure in place as a Charitable Incorporated Organisation and the library project due to start in the near future, the Polehampton Charity is marking its 300th anniversary in a spirit of optimism.

All children at Charvil Piggott, Colleton and Polehampton Schools received an Edward Polehampton ruler at the start of term.

The charity is also funding three 'chatty benches' to be installed around the villages, plus the planting of some memorial trees in November.

The trustees look forward to continuing to benefit the residents of Twyford, Ruscombe and Charvil, whilst honouring the wishes of Edward Polehampton.

www.thepolehamptoncharity.co.uk

Trustee Julie Jones (R) presenting a portrait of Edward Polehampton to Jenny Scott (L), Head of Polehampton Infant School

news

Twyford in Bloom

Huge congratulations to Twyford Parish Council and everyone involved with this year’s entry to the Britain in Bloom contest.

After the judges’ visits in July, the results in September were worth waiting for: Twyford was awarded Silver Gilt in the Small Town category and Level 4 – Thriving – for the RHS It’s your Neighbourhood award. To top it all, the village was declared the winner of the regional award for Heritage!

Whiteknights marks 50 years

The 2022/2023 season marks the 50th anniversary for Whiteknights Indoor Bowling Club in Earley. A special team has been working hard to plan a programme of events to make it a memorable year.

All members have received a fascinating booklet detailing the history of the Whiteknights club over the past fifty years. The full colour A4 publication is crammed with information and includes 45 photo graphs.

The anniversary celebrations kicked off in early October, from the date of the club‘s official opening in 1972, with a couple of special matches and meals.

Members are especially looking forward to the 50th Anniversary Christmas Party on Saturday 10 December, with a festive meal and a variety of fun activities.

Looking ahead to next year, on Monday 6 February Whiteknights will welcome Wey Valley IBC for a six-rink match as part of their own 50th anniversary tour, and a Members’ Fun Day will be held on Sunday 12 March, supporting the club’s chosen charity.

Those are just the main events planned so far to mark the club’s 50th anniversary: others will be added to make the 2022/23 season a special one to remember.

www.whiteknightsibc.co.uk

Talks at u3a Woodley

On Wednesday 2 November, Gary Jordan will give a lecture on the development of the classical guitar in Spain and a recital of some classical guitar gems. In December, members will enjoy a quiz.

In January, singer, songwriter, guitarist and producer Mike Hurst, the third member of The Springfields, will talk about his life in music.

u3a meetings take place on the first Wednesday of the month at Woodley Baptist Church in the Loddon Vale Centre, Woodley. Doors open at 2.00 pm, or there is also an option to join online at 2.15pm via Zoom. Pre-booking is essential: email speakerssecretary@woodleyu3a.org.uk for more information.

If you're no longer working full-time, find out more about your local u3a meetings and interest groups at www.woodleyu3a.org.uk.

Age Concern Twyford & District

The day centre in Twyford will hold its next prize bingo evening on Thursday 24 November from 6pm to 8pm. All are welcome: just £10 to take part. The charity will then be gearing up for its busiest time of the year, hosting a week of Christmas lunches from Monday 12 to Friday 16 December. If you, or anyone you know, is an older member of the community who would enjoy getting together with others for a festive meal in a warm and welcoming setting, don’t hesitate to reserve a place. The cost is just £12 per head.

Thereafter members will be looking forward to the Christmas party on Tuesday 20 December – offering a delicious seasonal buffet, great entertainment and prizes for the best dressed male and female. Again, just £12 per person, with advance booking required.

For more information or to book in for any event, call the office on 0118 934 4040.

Local history society talk

Being curious about history helps us learn from the past, understand the present and gain knowledge for the future – plus it keeps the mind active and entertained!

All are welcome to join the Twyford & Ruscombe Local History Society, which usually meets on the second Tuesday of the month from 7.30pm to 9pm in the library of the Piggott School. Visitors pay £4 to attend, whilst members go free.

The next talk on Tuesday 14 November will be ‘The Gentlemen Danes’, by John Nixon. He was a serving officer in the army, lived in Denmark for several years and is interested in the crossover between Danish and British history.

Members look forward to enjoying the Christmas Party on 12 December before the talks resume in January. For information about TRLHS and its programme of events, visit www.trlhs.org.uk.

Charvil Art Group Annual Exhibition

suggested by members, tutorials and some purely social events. Members also have opportunities to display their work, includ ing at the Annual Exhibition.

The 50th Anniversary Exhibition will be held on Sunday 27 November, from 10.30am to 5pm in Charvil Village Hall. Visitors are welcome to go along and browse the varied and interesting work of Charvil Art Group and perhaps chat to some of the artists.

Most of the pieces will be for sale – perhaps you will find the perfect Christmas present! Refreshments including homemade cakes will be available all day.

For anyone interested in exploring their creativity, new members are most welcome. Charvil Art Group meets at Charvil Village Hall from 7.30pm on Wednesday evenings during term time. Sessions are relaxed and friendly, enabling would-be artists to practise varied techniques and receive tuition from visiting tutors. Membership costs only £40 per annum, plus a small charge per session and for tutorials. Members range in age from twenties to eighties, and there is the opportunity to work with a variety of mediums.

For more information, visit www.charvilart group.co.uk, contact Hilary on 0118 934 3595, or just turn up on a Wednesday evening at 7.30pm during term time: you will receive a warm welcome.

Calling all songstresses

The next fun singing afternoon for female voices by local music teacher and choir director Suzanne Newman will be held on Saturday 3 December from 2pm to 4pm at Charvil Village Hall.

Charvil Art Group was founded in 1972 by artists from the local area, creating the opportunity to get together, practise their art and give each other inspiration.

Fifty years on, the group still meets weekly and enjoys a varied programme of topics

This is an opportunity to learn The twelve songs of Christmas, a medley of seasonal favourites arranged for two-part choir. The cost is £10, which includes a copy of the sheet music and light refreshments. Places need to be booked and paid for in advance: contact Suzanne on 0118 934 0589 or suzanneynewman@btinternet.com.

Local news (continued)

Suzanne’s choir, the Project Singers, invite you to their Home for Christmas concert at 7pm on Saturday 17 December at Queen Anne's School, Caversham.

They will be joined by The Abbey Senior Flute Ensemble and the Twyford Handbell Ringers to create a festive evening’s entertainment. Songs include Let it snow, Silver bells, Pavane for a silent night and Bethlehem Lullaby. Tickets cost £10 including refreshments and can be purchased directly from Suzanne.

The Project Singers are now recruiting for 2023. Their first project will be And wherever I go – all songs about travel, to include Route 66, Homeward bound, Journey to the past and All aboard! This will run from January to May, with a concert at St Mary's Church in Twyford as well as participation in Woodley and Cheltenham Music Festivals. The second half of the year will see the choirs working on number 1 songs from 1950 to 2000, with a concert at Norden Farm Centre for the Arts.

The Project Singers have two sections, each with weekly rehearsals in Charvil Village Hall: the Ladies’ Choir from 8 to 9.30pm on Mondays and the Ensemble for girls aged 10–18 from 6.15 to 7.45pm on Sundays.

Informal auditions are still taking place in November, so anyone interested should contact Suzanne for more information.

Heartbreak happens to men too

The UK charity Divorce Recovery Workshop runs courses for people at every stage of divorce or separation, no matter how long ago the relationship ended. The next local course in Earley will start on 11 November, with four sessions running over two consecutive weekends.

The DRW course welcomes people of any age, gender and ethnic background.

Forty-year-old data scientist Emos, a father of one, found the course gave him the support he needed to help him overcome the pain of his marriage break-up.

He has described how the group setting enabled him to hear other people’s stories and realise he was not alone, helping him to alter his approach, start to forgive and grow in confidence for the future.

Course participants may continue to support each other via a What’s App group and meet-ups.

Course co-ordinator Seamus Jennings said: ‘You will be greeted warmly with a cup of tea or coffee. Please call me on 07887 800521 for a chat or email info@drw.org.uk.’

Seamus has previously been interviewed on The RG10 Podcast, which you can find on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube and other platforms.

The next DRW course is at Brookside Hall, Earley, on Friday evening November 11, Saturday daytime November 12, Friday evening November 18 and Saturday daytime November 19. There is a modest cost to cover refreshments.

For more information about the content of the course, visit www.drw.org.uk. There is also a national helpline with female advisers available: 0333 335 0489.

Wokingham Home Library Service

Are you unable to visit a local library due to ill health, disability or because you are caring for someone? The Home Library Service could be exactly what you need.

The service is free to registered customers, many of whom are elderly or housebound, but it can also be used on a short-term basis following illness or during rehabilita tion. Available for delivery is a wide choice of books, DVDs, audiobooks, CDs and DVDs to be borrowed and enjoyed.

Application forms are available in local libraries or you can download one from wokingham.gov.uk/libraries/library-services /home-library-services.

0118 907 2510

Building for the Future Plus

Building for the Future Plus is a Twyfordbased charity supporting young disabled people aged 18+ as they leave college and move on to pursue career and lifestyle opportunities.

The charity helps them in a number of ways, from matching their talents to mentors and work experience to setting up sports and social groups. These can ease the isolation often felt when moving back home from supported living in an educational setting.

As CEO Jane Holmes explains: ‘Whatever our young people wish for, we try to grant! We’re here to fill the gap often left in society between one opportunity and the next.’

This winter, BFTF+ will hold an arts and photography exhibition showcasing some incredible work by young disabled people. The charity is also working on a set of exciting plans for 2023.

In the meantime, the charity continues fundraising to support its projects and keep the doors open at Our House in Woking ham, its unique, accessible play centre for families with younger disabled children. They would love to hear from anyone who could help out on collection days, hold a fundraising event or volunteer on the fundraising committee.

They are currently collecting soft toys for their next fundraising event, a Teddy Tombola at the Twyford Christmas Fayre. If you have any new or good quality preloved teddies that are ready for a new home, please drop them off at the BFTF+ office at Bell Corner in Twyford.

www.bftf.org.uk

Thinking about adoption?

If so, consider attending one of the virtual adoption information events run by Parents And Children Together (PACT). This independent adoption charity, rated ‘outstanding’ by Ofsted, finds loving and

permanent families for children waiting in care and offers award-winning support to adopting families for life.

Their information events provide an informal opportunity to learn about their services and what’s involved in the adoption process. You will also hear from one of their adopters about their experience, speak with one of their senior social workers, and get the opportunity to ask any questions.

Forthcoming dates:

Tue 15 November, 6.30– 8.30pm Wed 30 November, 5.30–7.30pm Mon 12 December, 6.30¬– 8.30pm

To book a place, call 0300 456 4800 or email enquiries@pactcharity.org. In the meantime, download a helpful Guide to Adoption from www.pactcharity.org.

The Arts Society Wokingham

Ever wondered what the life of an auctioneer is really like? If so, then don’t miss ‘Auction eer’s Tales’, the next monthly illustrated lecture at The Arts Society Wokingham.

The speaker on Monday 21 November is Marc Allum, who will share stories of great discoveries and emotive situations experienced during his 30 years as an auctioneer.

The Arts Society Wokingham meets from 7.45pm to 9pm in Moor Close at Newbold College in Binfield. Meetings are free for members, with guests always welcome (£8).

Register your interest by emaiing memsec theartssocietywham@gmail.com.

www.theartssocietywokingham.org.uk.

Community update

Don’t make it easy for burglars this winter and holiday season

• Keep all valuables and keys out of sight and away from doors, windows and letterboxes.

• Store electronic car key fobs in a signal blocking pouch to prevent them being scanned by thieves to open and steal your car.

• If you have a key safe, ensure it is not visible to people passing by, yet anyone tampering with it can be seen.

• When working from home, ensure laptops and electronic equipment are not on view.

As the winter nights close in, leave a light on... and burglars in the dark! Burglars are often opportunistic thieves and you can take steps to avoid becoming one of their victims this winter.

• Make your home look occupied by using timer switches on lights and radios: these can also help conserve energy and save money.

• Illuminate your front door with energy-saving automatic dusk-to-dawn lightbulbs.

• Consider purchasing and installing a video doorbell, house alarm or CCTV system.

• Close and double lock all doors and windows when going out: those 10 or 15 minutes on the school run or popping out to the shops are all a burglar needs to break into your home.

• Always double lock doors and windows at night and when you go to bed.

• Don’t give thieves the tools to burgle your house: ensure your sheds and garages are locked and secure.

We wish you a healthy and happy holiday season, but please:

• Don’t leave any presents on view or advertise them on social media.

• Don’t leave packaging next to your bin.

• Don’t advertise you are away from home on social media: ask a trusted friend or neighbour to keep an eye on your property.

• Ensure you security mark and register your new gifts online at www.immobilise.com.

You can find further crime prevention advice at www.thamesvalley.police.uk

Please contact us if you have any information relating to burglary in your neighbourhood. Report online or call us on 101. Always dial 999 in an emergency. Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on free phone 0800 555 111 Receive free crime and policing updates by registering at www.thamesvalleyalert.co.uk Consider joining a local Neighbourhood Watch Scheme. For more information, visit www.ourwatch.org.uk

Email: You can contact your local neighbourhood team via WokinghamNHPT@thamesvalley.police.uk

please note this address cannot be used to report crimes or for any urgent matters. Follow us on social media for regular crime updates and find out what your local policing teams are up to:

TVP Bracknell & Wokingham | @TVP_Wokingham

For giving and receiving

Whether you’re searching for the perfect Christmas present or a book to curl up with yourself on Boxing Day, we’ve got you covered… by Kate Duggan

It’s Christmas Everywhere- Hannah Barnaby and João Fazenda

This tree-shaped board book introduces young children to global festive traditions, from stencilling apples in China to making paper boats in Greece. Brightly coloured illustrations and a simple rhyming Christmas countdown will make this a new family favourite.

Get Changed – Kat Farmer

This book is for people who’ve fallen out of love with their wardrobe; or who loathe clothes shopping but want to find and express their identity, and those just seeking helpful tips for creating outfits and accessorising. Full-colour illustrations, down-to-earth writing and straightforward advice.

Do Earth – Tamsin Omond

Practical and empowering advice on the small steps we can take to collectively heal the planet. It’s easy to feel paralysed by the scale of the climate crisis, but this book is hopeful and uplifting: the perfect antidote to eco anxiety.

Our Missing Hearts – Celeste Ng

Another gripping story from the author of Little Fires Everywhere. Twelve-year-old Bird’s mother left three years ago. He knows not to talk about her. Standing out is dangerous when the authorities are prepared to use every power at their disposal to ‘preserve American culture’.

Modern Manners – The Gentlewoman

This humorous collection of essays covers everything from regifting and apologising to anonymity, drinking alone and umbrellas. With references to Kirsty Wark, Yasmin Le Bon, Katherine Hamnett, Hilary Mantel, Kylie Minogue, Naomi Alderman and others, think of it as a handy guide to navigating modern life.

Queen of Our Times: The Life of Elizabeth II – Robert Hardman

Published before her death, this is a fascinating insight into our longest-reigning monarch. Incredibly detailed, impeccably researched and with plenty of photo graphs across the decades, this is a must-read for not only biography fans, history lovers and royalists but also anyone curious to learn more about the Queen from people who knew her well.

Twyford Charity 5K and Fun Run

Waitrose for the bananas, Age Concern Twyford & District for the pre-loved books,and all our local schools and RG10 Magazine for the enthusiastic support.

A sunny autumn day set the scene for our fantastic 10th anniversary fun run on Sunday 9 October. The event attracted over 300 entries, plus plenty of supporters enjoying the stalls and activities.

Special thanks to Barnes Fitness for expertly organising the races, and to Castle Royle Golf & Country Club for being our primary sponsor.

Thanks also to The Piggott School for allowing us to use their premises, all our terrific volunteers (especially the marshals, the Piggott sixth formers handling registra tions and St Mary's Church at the finish line).

The event wouldn’t have been the same without Saxcelerate providing the speedy tunes or this year's wonderful stallholders: My Journey Wokingham, 1st Twyford Scouts, Cafe2U, Scarlett (our talented young face painter), Maya’s Refillables, The Shredquar ters, Polehampton PTA Usborne, Twyford & Ruscombe Horticultural Association, Happy Hours Preschool, Twyford Comets FC and First Days Children's Charity.

Additional thanks to Stanlake Park Wine Estate, Rural Pie Co., Waltham Place, ABL Photography, Decathlon, Up & Running, Reading Biscuit Factory and Nettlebed Creamery for donating the prizes, and to

Last but not least, huge thanks to Twyford Together’s Emma Donald for all her help in putting together a terrific event.

Twyford Together Business Networking

Our inaugural networking event was held at the Duke of Wellington on Friday 14 October. Attendees appreciated the opportunity to connect with other local businesses to share ideas, learn more about each other and give and receive support.

We plan to make this a regular event on the second Friday of each month from 8.30am to 10am at a central Twyford location. All local businesses are welcome.

Piggott School Business Mentoring

This year’s mentors, drawn from our local business community, are supporting their student groups online rather than visiting the school. Students work in pairs to come up with an idea, develop a plan and present a case for a new business that could be viable in the local area.

The standard was so high last time around that we are really looking forward to seeing the presentations from this year’s group of business students.

I must thank our mentors for volunteering their time and expertise to this project, which is greatly appreciated by the GCSE Business Studies section of the Piggott School.

Twyford Christmas Fayre

Christmas Fayre, which will be held in the village centre as usual on the first Friday

evening of December. Once again, the event is sponsored by our friends at Bridge House, for which we are deeply grateful.

For stallholder enquiries, please email twyfordchristmasfayrebookings@gmail.com We always like to hear from new volunteers interested in helping with the organisation of any of our events: please email us on hello@twyfordtogether.org.

The Tree of Christmas Wishes

I’m delighted that Goodall-Smith Wealth Management is sponsoring the Christmas Tree and lights.

Amy Goodall-Smith is inviting pupils of the Colleton and Polehampton schools to write their Christmas wish on a wooden decoration to be hung on the tree. In recent years the tree has been a huge draw for the communi ty, with people coming to read the wonderful Christmas messages.

Join us for a festive celebration at Bell Corner on Sunday 27 November at 5.30pm. There will be Christmas carols, a special guest to switch on the lights, and mince pies and mulled wine for the grown-ups!

Business & Community Awards

We'll be asking for your nominations in the new year, so I hope you're already thinking about the individuals and organisations that deserve to be recognised.

In the meantime, we wish everyone an excellent festive season.

Rob Yeadon Twyford Together Chairman

travel

Christmas markets in Europe

the markets are filled with local arts and crafts and festive treats. They’re also joined by Tallinn’s very own Santa, who arrives at his winter grotto on an authentic reindeer sleigh.

The highlight must be the Christmas tree, which has been displayed in front of the town hall since 1441 – the earliest known in Europe.

Budapest, Hungary

With Christmas now approaching, you may soon find yourself fantasising about mulled wine and steaming chestnuts. The solution is to wrap up warm, head to a Christmas market, and have your fill whilst browsing unique gifts.

While we have plenty of world-renowned markets here in the UK – Winchester, Edinburgh, Bath and Cambridge to name a few – nothing quite compares to the fairy-tale, festive spirit in some of Europe's historic cities.

From Hungary’s regional specialities and the dazzling lights of Vienna, all the way to Tallinn’s cobblestone streets sprinkled with snow, here’s the lowdown on five of the most magical Christmas markets in Europe.

Vienna, Austria

Every winter, Vienna’s prettiest squares transform into a maze of Christmas markets, adorned with fairy lights. Wherever your feet take you, expect to see everything from artisanal handicrafts and traditional wooden toys, to ice rinks, Ferris wheels and merry-go-rounds. This is Christmas at its most traditional.

Oh, and the food… Warm the cockles of your heart with a mulled wine while inhaling the smell of roasted chestnuts and freshly baked pretzels.

Tallinn, Estonia

Part of what makes Tallinn’s Christmas markets so magical is their setting. Come December, this beautiful medieval city is dusted with snow, and

Officially hailed as Europe’s best Christmas market in 2022, Budapest’s Advent Feast at the Basilica is a delight for the senses. Shop for unique gifts from more than 160 artisan vendors and sample local Hungarian specialities. Goulash and flódni are must-tries!

There’s even an ice rink at the heart of the action, circling a nine-metre-tall Christmas tree. Be sure to hang around for the real star of the show – a spectacular laser light show projected onto the facade of St Stephen's Basilica.

Nuremberg, Germany

Home to more than 150 towns and cities with established Christmas market traditions, Germany is synonymous with the festive season. Berlin and Cologne are world renowned, but most visitors agree that Nuremberg’s Christ kindlesmarkt just about comes out on top.

One of Germany’s oldest Christmas markets, dating back to around 1530, Christkindlesmarkt is a foodie’s paradise. Grilled sausages, crackling pork, mulled wine, sweet gingerbread – you’ll fulfil every festive food fantasy here.

Prague, Czech Republic

Postcard-worthy Prague was made for the festive season, so it’s no surprise the market in the capital city is one of Europe’s favourites. This is part and parcel down to its magnificent setting, but as Czechs love their alcohol, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to booze! Sample mead, punch and grog – a concoction of rum, lemon, sugar and hot water.

If you’ve got little ones, they’ll love the Old Town Square’s petting zoo – complete with sheep, goats and donkeys.

0118 907 2510 or email nikki@rg10mag.com

Sudoku

Level - Hard

General

First Days Children’s Charity

Winter will be hard

We’re here to help families in our community

Earlier this year, we set up the Elevate Centre, a space in the centre of Wokingham where people can come in, take a breath, and find support, strength and understanding. During the summer holidays it was used as a ‘one-stop uniform shop’, providing children with all the essentials for school.

Over the coming months it will be transformed into a welcoming space, where families identified as needing support will be invited to come and choose gifts for their children and items for a food hamper.

At First Days we give choice, restore dignity and empower families living on a low income or experiencing financial hardship. We’re currently seeing a significant number of people in our community suffering greatly as a result of the cost of living emergency. This winter will be harder than ever.

Last Christmas, we supported families with the gift of choice. We listened to parents who, without our help, would not have been able to offer a Christmas present to their children. Using money generously donated by the public and local businesses, we were able to purchase gifts chosen by the families.

This winter will be like no other we’ve experi enced. Nevertheless, we remain determined to give children and their families a Christmas to remember.

We are expanding on what we did last year, teaming up again with Wokingham Borough Council, SHARE Wokingham, Wokingham Foodbank, and other local charities and groups to run a community Christmas project we’ve called A Christmas Presence.

The Elevate Centre will also have a warm space named ‘The Snug’, helping people to reduce the amount of energy they consume at home. The Snug will be an inviting and comfortable place enabling residents to keep warm, have a hot drink and access other services whilst charging devices and even doing some laundry.

They’ll have access to warm clothes and jackets for children and teenagers, plus energy efficiency items for the home, such as slow cookers and air fryers. There will also be a play area for those with young children, who would normally be at home during the day but might struggle this winter to keep the heating on for long.

We are seeking support from the local community to get these winter projects off the ground. We appreciate that many of us are feeling the pressure on our household budgets, but if you are able to consider helping those less fortunate, please visit our website. You can either make a donation or use our Amazon wish list to purchase an essential item or Christmas gift for a child.

Thank you so much.

Emma Cantrell Founder and CEO www.firstdays.net

Simon Drillingcourt & Peter Smith

Puzzle

Crossword

Across: 1 Brae, 4 Sycamore, 8 Hibiscus, 9 Ring, 10 Wales, 11 Rooster, 14 Pomelo, 16 Emblem, 18 Bombard, 20 Bible, 23 Toll, 24 Emeritus, 25 Horsefly, 26 Flex.

Down: 2 Raita, 3 Evil eye, 4 Sock, 5 Customer, 6 Mares, 7 Elgar, 12 Eve, 13 Four-leaf, 15 Ono, 17 Bailiff, 18 Batch, 19 Bolus, 21 Louse, 22 Bevy.

Children’s page

Anagrams:

Key, rue, rut, rye, try, yet, trek, true, tyre, yurt, retry, turkey

Crossword

Wordsearch

Hidden phrase: Christmas is a time for families. Dorothy Koomson

Sudoku

Mary Berry

The magic of Mary

Dame Mary Berry, the much-loved former judge of The Great British Bake Off, has been teaching the nation to cook since first appear ing on our TV screens in the early 1970s. Her latest show was a six-part series shown recently on BBC2: Mary Berry – Cook and Share (available on BBC iPlayer).

Born in Bath in 1935, Mary admits she was ‘hopeless’ by academic standards. After leaving school, she studied at Bath College of Domes tic Science and then at the Paris Le Cordon Bleu. She recalls: ‘I didn’t like Paris at all. I stuck it out, but it wasn’t the highlight of my time.’

Fast forward to the swinging 60s, and Mary landed the role of cookery editor of Housewife magazine. She enjoyed an active social life, with boyfriends in both Bath and London. As she put it, ‘you keep your options open...’

After many years living in Buckinghamshire, in 2018 Mary and Paul moved to Henley-onThames. Home is a four-bedroom house with separate cottage, indoor pool and gym.

Talking about their life together, Mary has said: ‘Paul is wonderful. He is always there for me… but him do the cooking? You must be joking! I do the cooking at home, and on the rare occasion that I’m not well, he will always make an omelette. After two or three omelettes, I’m normally better!’

Mary was awarded a CBE in 2012 and honoured with a damehood in 2020. With more than 80 books to her credit, the first published in 1966, how does she keep her classic recipes modern and relevant?

‘I adapt them by updating and using new ingredients such as baking spreads, new fruits and vegetables, new grains like quinoa and puy lentils. These are all modern ingredients if you compare them to when the classics were invented.’

What about Christmas? Mary and Paul refuse to spoil their five grandchildren over the festive season. Said Mary: ‘We’re good at keeping to a budget and nearly always give them an experience, like sailing lessons or tennis lessons.

In the end, she married antique bookseller Paul Hunnings – accepting his third proposal! They tied the knot in 1966 at Charlcombe Church, near Bath, with Mary wearing a £5 dress and making her own wedding cake.

Paul and Mary had three children, two sons and a daughter, but tragically lost their second son, William, in a car crash aged 19.

‘We always have the family over at Christmas… We have a turkey with all the trimmings, fresh veg, Christmas pudding, trifle, mince pies. I love doing the cooking, but we share it on Christmas Day.’

Mary Berry’s new book Cook and Share is out now, published by BBC Books, priced £26, with photography by Laura Edwards.

Visit maryberry.co.uk

Mary Berry with husband Paul HunningsMary Berry with husband Paul Hunnings

Butternut squash wreath

These colourful puff pastry wreaths are easier to assemble than they look and make a fabulous centrepiece for Christmas Day lunch or dinner. Roll out the pastry trimmings to make ‘stars’ to decorate the tops

Ingredients

• 900g butternut squash, peeled, deseeded and cut into small cubes

• 2 red onions, peeled and thinly sliced

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 2 tbsp maple syrup

• 4 unpeeled whole garlic cloves

• Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

• 2 x 375g packs of ready-rolled puff pastry

• 100g baby spinach leaves

• 85g shelled pistachios

• 1 red chilli, deseeded and diced

• 100g grated Cheddar cheese

• 4 tsp green pesto

• 4 tsp cranberry sauce

• 1 medium free-range egg, beaten

Method

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C / fan 180°C / gas mark 6. Line 2 baking trays with baking parchment.

2. Place the squash and red onions on 2 other baking trays and drizzle with the olive oil and maple syrup. Tuck the garlic cloves in between, season lightly with salt and pepper and roast for 30–40 minutes, or until tender and starting to caramelise.

3. Meanwhile, roll out each pastry sheet until about 6mm thick and large enough to cut out a circle of around 27cm (use a dinner plate as a guide). Set aside the pastry trimmings. Place each disc on a lined baking tray, then use a smaller plate to lightly mark out an inner circle in the centre. Take a sharp knife and cut lengthways and widthways across the inner circle, then twice more through the quarters to create 8 sections.

4. Squeeze the garlic out of the skins and stir into the hot roasted squash and onion mixture. Add the spinach and leave it to wilt slightly and soften. Place spoonfuls of the mixture over each ring of pastry, avoiding the very outer edge and central star. Sprinkle with the pistachios, chilli and grated cheese then drizzle alternately with pesto and cranberry sauce.

5. Working your way around each pastry ring, first raise the outer edge a little, then fold each of the centre star points towards it over the filling. Wherever the pastry joins, pinch with your fingers to seal together.

6. Lightly brush the pastry with beaten egg, saving some to attach a few stars cut from the pastry trimmings (optional). Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until puffed up, crisp and golden brown.

Extracted from The Veggie Christmas Cookbook by Heather Thomas, HarperNonFiction,

hardback, photography Joff Lee.

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