Round & About Magazine: Caversham/Sonning Edition - January 2020

CAVERSHAM SONNING

YEAR!

HAPPY

JANUARY 2020 | www.roundandabout.co.uk

NEW

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Eco-friendly steps we can all take

8-page Education Report inside Mill at Sonning musical highlight Biologist Liz Bonnin Q&A

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W HAT ' S I N SI D E

Contents JANUARY 2020 | Vol. 20 | No. 1

5 Disjointed Ramblings

28 Banff film festival

9 Help save the planet!

29 Chris Wallace column

12 Liz Bonnin Q&A

32 Competitions

15 Singing workshop fun

34 Singin’ In The Rain

17 Education for all

36 Classified

Local news and charity events

Environmental advice

Biologist’s wisdom

15

Magic mountains

Our star baker gets fresh!

Free to enter online

Avenue Q highlight

Our guide to learning

Musical at the Mill

34

Your essential services

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AB OUT US

The monthly magazine delivered to homes by The Royal Mail across Berks, Bucks, Hants, Oxon, Surrey, W Sussex & Wilts

THIS EDITION IS DELIVERED TO ALL 16,745 HOMES IN RG4 P­­ ublisher: Chris Savage Editor: Liz Nicholls email: lnicholls@roundandabout.co.uk Production Editor: Karen Neville email: kneville@roundandabout.co.uk Ramblings Editor: Peter Savage Sales Director: Luke Maitland Advertising Manager: Katie Marlow Display Advertising: Steve Warner, Sam Gillespie, Simon Johnson, Jennifer Sanders, Glynn Humphreys, Tara Harris Classified Advertising: Antonio Capuzzimati email: sales@roundandabout.co.uk Accounts: Vicki Charles, Stephen Clapton Production Manager: Michelle Miley email: mmiley@roundandabout.co.uk Design: Angus Scripps, Grace Tracey

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Tel: 01491 837621 enquiries@roundandabout.co.uk www.roundandabout.co.uk February publication date 3rd February 2020 COPY DATE LATEST – 1st of PRECEDING MONTH The contents of this magazine are protected by copyright and nothing may be reprinted without prior permission. The publishers cannot accept liability for loss or damage of material submitted to the magazine. LOOSE INSERTS delivered with your copy of Round & About have absolutely nothing to do with the magazine. Our inserts are secured into the magazine with staples. WE TAKE NO RESPONSIBILITY FOR ANY OTHERS. Round & About Publications Ltd does not endorse any advertisements published in Round & About Magazine. Please note all phone calls to and from Round & About are recorded for training and monitoring purposes.

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4 | JANUARY 2020

RAMBLINGS

Ramblings Local news & events

Promoting your event in Ramblings is FREE Here we are at the start of a new year and who knows what it will bring. It’s the time when people make resolutions, often to make changes, but let’s be honest how many of us stick to them?

More often than not, they are forgotten about and discarded as soon as the decorations come down.

psavage@roundandabout.co.uk

d

Max. 150 words. We cannot guarantee all entries will be published.

Karen Neville

your RamblER...

O

ne resolution we should all make this year is to be more green and more eco-aware and we’re highlighting that in this month’s edition, however small a gesture you make it all makes a difference if we do it together. So here’s to a happy, healthy and greener new year to everyone.

Reading Geological Society members paid a visit to Watership Down to walk from the high point on the Down across the valley to the high ground on the North side.

Their route revealed a changing pattern of rocks beneath their feet – first chalk, then green sands and then chalk again. The path took them beside Watership Down with views of the countryside. The author Richard Adams lived in Shepherd’s Cottage at the foot of the Down but sadly the group did not see any bunnies. This visit is typical of those made by Reading Geological Society who hold monthly lectures and field meetings. To find out more and to become a member visit www.readinggeology.org.uk

Caversham Park Bridge Club is a small friendly club whose members meet every Tuesday at the Milestone

If you’re holding a charity event, fete, fair or anything of a non-commercial nature email it in by the 1st of the month prior to publication to

Centre, Caversham Park Village to play duplicate bridge.

7.15pm for a 7.30pm start. There is computer dealing and scoring, free parking and disabled facilities. There is also a bar. The club holds various competitions, enters the Waller Bowl and has a team of eight in the Chiltern League. We are affiliated to EBU. New members and visitors always welcome. £2 table money, £3 for visitors. To find out more contact Lin on 0118 9477820 or Tony on 07917 366294.

Or visit www.bridgewebs.com/cavershampark Reading’s folk song and music club is back with a new programme for the new year at its regular home at The Community Hall, Watlington House, Watlington Street, Reading. They meet on Sunday evenings from 8-10.30pm and have a lively mix to lift the January gloom starting on 5th with Roswell, rising stars on the folk scene Jasmine Watkins and Zoe Wren are an award-winning young duo playing traditional and new material. The Salts, on the 12th, are an exciting concept band performing their original music with interpretations of traditional favourites.

There’s a singers night on the 19th and the month finishes

d...Continued on page 7.

R&A | 5

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RAMBLINGS

á ...Continued from page 5.

on 26th with Scottish singer and guitarist Bob Wood entertaining in a Burns Night special. Guest nights are £6, singers and theme nights £2. All are welcome to come along. For more information visit www.readifolk.org.uk The Sonning Common Whist Club members meet every Tuesday afternoon at Batten House, Lea Road, Sonning Common 2pm and finishing about 4.45pm; all are welcome. £2 per session which includes tea and biscuits and the chance to win prizes! Join them for an afternoon of fun, make some new friends and practise your skills.

Join West Forest Sinfonia for a programme that needs no introduction, featuring at its heart Stravinsky’s Rite of Spring. Soprano Alexandra Stevenson is the soloist in Tchaikovsky’s beautiful Letter Scene from Eugene Onegin.

Alexandra recently performed at the Royal Opera House for Classic FM, and as an oratorio and operatic soloist she has sung at Fairfield Halls, Shipley Arts Festival with trumpeter Christian Steele-Perkins, Chelsea Schubert Festival and Usher Hall, Edinburgh. The concert can be enjoyed on Sunday, 26th January, at 4.30pm, at The Great Hall, University of Reading, London Road Campus with conductor Philip Ellis and leader Giles Wade. The programme also includes Cinderella Suite No 3 from Prokofiev. Tickets: £15 adults, £5 students & under-18s.

Season ticket: £40. Call 07977 050265 or email tickets@ westforestsinfonia.org. Tickets for this uplifting evening online at wegottickets.com and on the door.

Author Julie Roberts has been writing since she was 15 years old and giving social talks for 10 years to a variety of meetings including WI groups, village communities, libraries and similar. And on Tuesday, 14th January she will be addressing Upper Basildon WI on the subject of Write your memories – the easy way at St Stephen’s Church Centre at 7.30pm. Julie has a choice of five talks for the 2020 season and a donation from her fee will go to the Thames Valley Air Ambulance. To enquire about Julie giving a talk to your group email jurb839@aol.com, call 0118 9477794. Find out more on her website www. julieroberts.me.uk

Reading Outdoor Group are hosting an illustrated talk on the Trans-Siberian Railway, from Mongolia to Russia on Monday, 6th January. The talk will be upstairs at the rear of the RISC Centre, 35 -39 London Street, Reading.

They meet at 7.30pm, and the talk starts at about 8pm. For further information please call Mike on 01189 616506.

The group also organises a range of walks as well as weekends away. To find out more about what they do visit www.readingoutdoorgroup.org.uk

d...Continued on page 14.

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E N VI RO N M E N T

Go green!

If we each make small changes to our lives we can collectively make a huge impact to protect our planet for future generations.

Here are some positive ideas…

H

ere we are, at the dawn of a new year, a new decade. Recent news has delivered bleak news. We all know – thanks to Greta Thunberg et al – our species must take action now to mitigate the damage wreaked upon our planet. We believe positivity is the only way toward change so consider these tips inspirational rather than guiltinducing. Some might seem like common sense (especially to those who’ve always been frugal) but together we can make a huge difference.

Tree’s company

Scientists have found billions more trees could remove two thirds of all the carbon dioxide created by humans. The Woodland Trust is working hard to protect the 1,064 ancient woods threatened by development in the UK. Buy saplings to plant yourself or donate at www.woodlandtrust.org. uk. Also plant bee-friendly plants and wildflowers.

Aim to use only naturally derived products and fertilisers and keep lawns real rather than paving.

Your council cares!

Garden compost bins will reduce your household waste. Ensure you utilise food waste, green waste and recycling schemes in your area – they vary greatly but all local authorities are under pressure to hit targets so you might be surprised. Do check online what can and can’t be recycled to reduce landfill, e.g. Christmas trees. Reusing, and buying

less packaging in the first place is still the best way to lessen your carbon footprint.

Monitor and aim to reduce your levels over time.

Shower power

Just 2.5% of the world’s water is freshwater (the rest being saltwater) and most of it is frozen or deep underground so we can’t afford to waste a drop. According to the Environment Agency, we could run short of water within the next 25 years.

We’re not asking you to be stinky, but shortening your shower will save 10 litres per minute. Look for a water-saving shower head. An average fiveminute shower uses 40% less water than a bath.

R&A | 9

ENV I RON ME N T

Feeling flush

Using the small button on your loo saves half the water. Or fit a low-cost water saver in your cistern.

Perhaps surprisingly, dishwashers use far less water and energy than washing up. Run taps slowly & less frequently and get a water butt if you can.

Home heating

Turn radiators off or down in less-used or unused rooms. It sounds obvious but popping a jumper on or snuggling under a warmer duvet might mean you don’t need the heating on. Turning down your thermostat by just one degree can save up to £80 a year. Home boiler heating is responsible for nearly 20% of the UK’s greenhouse gas emissions.

Bright sparks

You can save electricity – and about £30 a year off your energy bills – just by remembering not to leave your appliances on standby (and more by unplugging). Don’t leave devices charging unnecessarily. Switch to energy-efficient LED lightbulbs and save about £40 per year.

People power

Switch to renewable electricity and green gas at home and reduce your carbon footprint and bills. Leading providers include Bulb, Octopus Energy and Ecotricity.

The average home can stop 1.5 tonnes of CO2 from entering the atmosphere. Install a Smart Meter too – get inspired at www.uswitch.com

Holiday

at home

Consider a UK staycation for your next holiday. A longhaul return flight, say to New York can generate 1,000kg of CO2. A flight to America’s west coast would 10 | JANUARY 2020

produce 50% more emissions, and a flight to say China or Australia double that.

Web wise

Forget the big search engines and instead switch to Ecosia which commits 80% of its profits to supporting reforestation projects. To date, it’s helped to plant more than 70 million trees.

Shopping savvy

Shop responsibly to significantly reduce your output. And “punish” big supermarkets for their inaction! Look for local suppliers of milk, bread, fruit and veg, meat, dairy and more. Buy products made or grown in the UK, less wrapped, such as loose veg. Sign up to Freegle and for clothing, join the kids & buy vintage on apps such as Depop.

Waste not

Switch to a disposable safety razor, a bamboo toothbrush, planet-friendly deodorant, bamboo loo roll, soap bars or refillable shampoo and shower gel. Plus Mooncup for women. More zerowaste shops and pop-ups are appearing across the UK: we will keep bringing you news of these locally.

Cleaning up

There are great eco dishwasher and washing machine aids, from brands such as Ecoleaf to soap nuts, household cleaner such as Koh, refillable detergent and more (try Splosh or Smol) and plasticfree cloths and scourers (Ecococonut or Loofah).

Avoid palm oil

Research by Rainforest Rescue shows the equivalent of 300 football fields are destroyed every hour to produce palm oil, which can be found in close to 50% of the packaged products. Visit www.wwf.org.uk for a list of ingredients to avoid.

Drinking problem

Invest in a reusable cup (from R Cup or Stojo) or bottle (Klean Kanteen /Jedz / One Green Bottle).

Food for thought

Every year in the UK we throw away £13 billion worth of food (an average of £500). See our monthly Ramblings for a wealth of gardening clubs to grow your own or share the fruits of others’ labours in various swap sales in your community.

Visit www.sustainweb.org, www.ilovefreegle. org and www.theplasticfreehome.com

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R&A | 11

S TAR Q&A

Heal

the world

Liz Nicholls asks award-winning presenter and biologist Liz Bonnin about school, the live tour of the BBC’s Planet Earth II this spring and how we can all do our bit.

Q.

Which early experiences or teachers sparked your love of nature? “I grew up in France, in the mountains above Nice. My sister and I were always out in the wood near our house with our two dogs, having adventures with hedgehogs, snakes and spiders. Nature just works its magic if you plonk kids in the middle of it. At school, I was fascinated by little birds, how everything worked inside that perfect little body, which led me to biology. Then I wanted to understand how everything worked in every living system and I had a great chemistry teacher in Ireland who nurtured my passion. A good teacher will do that. I wasn’t very good at physics or maths but I loved school.”

Q. Do series such as Planet Earth, and Sir David Attenborough’s latest Seven Worlds, One Planet have an influence on how we treat our planet? “We’ve reached a tipping point in terms of our impact, and one of the things I’m most astounded by is that petrochemical companies are just seemingly carrying on as if it’s ‘business as usual’. I believe we can make a difference, but need to be aware of the facts. I think series like Planet Earth can both move and inspire people.”

12 | JANUARY 2020

Q. Has filming Meat: A Threat To Our Planet changed your eating habits? “I already was eating less meat. The show certainly made me think again about how we treat a food that, considering its impact, should be a luxury rather than an everyday staple. I don’t eat red meat and any chicken I eat is free range, high welfare.”

Q. How do you feel about Planet Earth II’s live tour? ”It hasn’t quite sunk in that I’ll be involved.

So, to be stepping out as part of the tour and getting to see it all on a gigantic screen with a full orchestra as well... I think I’ll be quite emotional.”

Q. What is it like working with a national treasure Sir David? “I’ve met Sir David on a few occasions now, and I’ll never forget the first time I saw him about 12 years ago when he was talking at an event. I was a bit starstruck; he was my hero when I was growing up. He went from production work into inventing natural history programming with the BBC. There really is nobody else like him and I doubt there ever will be again. He’s not just a national treasure, but one for the whole world.” ● For Planet Earth II Live in Concert 2020 visit www. planetearth2live.uk and see our competitions.

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RAMBLIN G S

á ...Continued from page 7.

Come and discover the fun of dancing. Dunsden Green Country Dance Club continues to meet for English Country Dancing at Dunsden Green Village Hall, RG4 9QG. They welcome both beginners and experienced dancers, and those in between. All dances are called. Dates for 2020 up to Easter are 15th and 29th January, 5th and 19th February, 4th and 18th March, 1st April. All sessions 8pm - 10pm, £4 and first visit is free. For more information please call 0118 9481195 or else you can email dunsdencountrydance@yahoo.co.uk

Just over two years ago Caversham Champions to End Loneliness was formed and now it has become an independent voluntary organisation it is adapting its name to be less of a mouthful - Ctel (pronounced “see-tell” ) North Reading. The group aims ‘to make north Reading an inclusive community where no-one feels isolated, by providing support, information and encouragement to

initiatives that lead towards that vision’. In attempting to make North Reading a friendlier place there have been pledge cards with ideas such as making a phone call, offering to go with someone to a new group, talking to someone you would not normally speak to, shopper bags with a message “It may only take a smile”, tables in cafes where people can have a chat to someone and a workshop encouraging street parties. Two more of those workshops will be held this month on 6th at 6pm and 18th at 2.30pm, both in the upstairs room at The Griffin in Caversham.

To reserve a place at one of them visit www.eventbrite. com/e/lets-have-a-street-party-tickets-82790774435 It’s time to grab your technicoloured dreamcoat and join Festival Sinfonia, Festival Voices and for the first time Universal Voices as they prepare to perform Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat in March at the University of Reading Great Hall. Performers will work together in intensive rehearsals and all performers are required to register to take part. Orchestral members wishing to take part should register at www.r1.dotmailer-surveys.com/ f44r68cd-3f48bw93 with the first read through of Act I taking place on Friday, 31st January. Attendance of all rehearsals is required. The choral ensemble, Festival Voices, will learn the music over the course of Thursday evening or Friday lunchtime rehearsals before joining up with Sinfonia for weekend rehearsals. To join Festival Voices, register at www.r1.dotmailer-surveys.com/f44r68cd-1848bq2a

If you’re saying "I do" this year or next then you’ll want to say "I do" to the wedding fair at Crowne Plaza Reading on Sunday, 12th January. Whether you’re

d...Continued on page 26.

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SI N G I N G

Right on Q!

One of the world’s most successful musicals is coming to Emmer Green... but this time it’s local residents who will be the stars for the day, without even needing to audition.

A

venue Q, the story of one man (well, puppet) and his quest to find his purpose in life, is being brought to Emmer Green Primary School by West End musician and local Rock Choir leader, Lucy Hewes.

She describes the event as “an opportunity for anybody with an interest in musicals to sing songs in a friendly environment, no matter what their ability. Avenue Q is one of my all-time favourites, so it’s a pleasure to bring this workshop to Reading. “Despite the show having some rather risqué lyrics, we’ve avoided those parts so it’s family-friendly.” The workshop will also include learning the ever popular

As an added bonus, she’ll have some help on the day. “The event will be run by myself and West End star Daniel Boys who will also give us an intimate performance and Q&A.” Daniel was a

finalist in Any Dream Will Do (BBC), played Princeton in Avenue Q [pictured] and starred in the film Nativity Rocks in the role of Mr Johnson. The event is at Emmer Green Primary School on Sunday, 12th January, 10:30am-1.30pm.

“People often think they can’t sing, or that singing in harmony will be difficult, but I believe that if you can talk, you can sing and everyone has what it takes,” Lucy adds. “Whether you have sung in this sort of situation before or not, with nothing but a lyric sheet in your hand we will have you singing in harmony in no time.”

For tickets and more information visit www.warblethewestend.com

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To become a Headteacher is both a privilege and an honour and I am so pleased and excited to have been appointed Headteacher of Maiden Erlegh Chiltern Edge

Andrew Hartley appointed new Headteacher at Maiden Erlegh Chiltern Edge JANUARY 2020 Maiden Erlegh Chiltern Edge (MECE) has been through a turbulent period in recent years but it is clear that progress is now tangible and the school, under the sponsorship of Maiden Erlegh Trust, is moving rapidly in the right direction.

My journey to MECE has been lengthy and varied. I have been Deputy Headteacher at Brakenhale School in Bracknell since September 2015. Brakenhale has had a long history of low achievement and poor behaviour however as part of a team we have transformed the school beyond recognition. A huge waiting list, a very positive OFSTED report (with three Outstanding categories out of five) and results that have improved beyond recognition. The experience I have gained as a part of this team will be invaluable in the journey I want to take MECE on over the next few years. Prior to this I was Assistant Headteacher at The Downs School in Compton where, as Post 16 leader I oversaw seven years of incredible results with many students securing places at Oxbridge and Russell Group universities.

My values and philosophy towards education are simple. I believe that every student is capable of great work and making the right choices. I will be working hard to inculcate an aspirational mind-set into all students whilst ensuring those who need extra support and opportunity can access this. Furthermore, I believe that teaching and learning must be of the highest quality and I will be working tirelessly with staff to ensure the quality of lessons remain high at all times.

I want to make MECE the first choice for the local community and look forward to working for you and with you to achieve this.

We warmly invite visits from parents who are considering Maiden Erlegh Chiltern Edge and who would like to see the school on a normal working day.

Please contact the school office to arrange an appointment.

16 | JANUARY 2020

Andrew Hartley

Maiden Erlegh Chiltern Edge, Reades Lane, Sonning Common, Reading RG4 9LN www.maidenerleghchilternedge.co.uk

Telephone: 0118 9721500

E D U C AT I O N

Education Guide d Winter 2020

Find your brave S

uperheroes would probably feature highly for most children if they were asked who they thought was brave.

However, bravery comes in all shapes and sizes as this year’s Children’s Mental Health Week is out to prove.

The week from 3rd to 9th February invites schools, youth groups, organisations and individuals to take part with one goal to “Find Your Brave”.

Bravery is about so much more than just fighting evil villains, it can be about fighting your own enemies, sharing worries and not being afraid to ask for help. Perhaps you want to try something new or push yourself outside your comfort zone, build your self confidence, improve your selfesteem and feel good about yourself.

Wellbeing is becoming as much a part of the curriculum as maths and English. Find out how it can help you and your school

Children’s mental health charity Place2Be which provides counselling and mental health support and training in schools, says bravery is all about finding positive ways to deal with things that may be difficult, overcoming physical and mental challenges and looking after yourself.

Place2Be launched the first Children’s Mental Health Week in 2015 to highlight the importance of children and young people’s mental health. Now in its sixth year, they hope to encourage more people than ever to get involved and spread the word.

d

Co-educational boarding and day school for children aged 11 - 18

Sixth Form Taster Day

Whole College Open Morning

Friday 14 February 2020

Saturday 25 April 2020

Book with the Admissions Team 0118 976 7415 • admissions@pangbourne.com

“small, distinctive and family oriented school… caring and supportive…”

Good Schools’ Guide 2019 www.pangbourne.com

R&A | 17

EDUC ATION

Berkshire schools encouraged to enter conservation awards

S

Pupil power!

chool children in Berkshire are being invited to do their bit for the environment by taking part in the 2020 Dorothy Morley Conservation Awards in honour of a pioneering campaigner.

The awards are promoted by CPRE Berkshire and recognise the two best school projects promoting environmental conservation with prizes of £1,000 and £500 on offer.

CPRE Berkshire branch secretary Gloria Keene said they were encouraged by young people’s desire to change their local environment.

She said: “By promoting this award scheme throughout the county, we hope that we can help school children feel that they can really make a difference, particularly when news about the climate change emergency might feel overwhelming.

d Continued...

“We believe local action can bring big changes and look forward to hearing about pupils, teachers and parents working together on what we know will be some fantastic projects.”

Past examples of projects include tree planting and waste recycling, partnerships with organisations in towns and villages, promoting organic and local food, creating and developing school gardens and creating and maintaining wildlife friendly community areas.

The award reflects the work of Dorothy Morley who died in 1995 and was a strong campaigner on environmental issues. In addition to the £1,000 first prize and £500 for the runner up, all shortlisted schools are invited to display information about their project at CPRE Berkshire’s July presentation event.

The deadline for schools to register their interest is 31st January. For more information contact Gloria on 0118 930 6756 or email cpreberkshire@ btopenworld.com

Last year, Place2Be worked with 639 schools in England, Scotland and Wales, reaching 364,080 children and young people. In the same year, more than 300 schools took part in Mental Health Champions programmes, equipping school leaders, teachers and staff with the skills and confidence to support pupils’ mental health. Over 1,600 child counsellors took part in training on various levels, building an ever-growing number who specialise in working with children and young people.

dance, run, swim, jump or walk, it’s a great way to deal with negative thoughts and feelings.

The Mental Health Foundation offers The 5 Ways to Wellbeing, a set of actions which have been proven to improve wellbeing, offering a starting point for schools.

Lifelong learning is the way to keep the brain healthy, the sense of achievement from learning something new can be great for your mood, or try a quiz or a new skill.

Connect

Be mindful Take time to check in with your thoughts and feelings, you may notice things you’ve missed, try a yoga session or mindfulness, breathing techniques can be a real help especially at exam time.

Keep learning

Give to others

Get to know your classmates, it’s a great support network, get together over activities or just tea and a chat.

Helping others can help reduce your own stress, improve your own emotional wellbeing and even benefit your physical health.

Get active

● To find out more about how these charities can help you or your school, visit www. childrensmentalhealthweek.org.uk and www.mentalhealth.org.uk

Exercise can be good for your mind as well as your body, whether you cycle, 18 | JANUARY 2020

QAS_Roundandabout_(Caversham/Sonning_RG4)_147X91.5mm_Dec_2020

OPEN MORNINGS Friday 6 March Saturday 2 May • • • • • •

Set amongst 35 acres Award-winning Sixth Form building Extensive co-curricular programme State-of-the-art music centre Outstanding pastoral care Community spirit

Book today:qas.org.uk Paddington to Reading in just 26 minutes

An extensive transport network, including the Sonning area

Day and boarding Full and flexi options available

Queen Anne’s is an independent school for girls aged 11 to 18

CAV E R S H A M P R E PA R ATO RY S C H O O L

Inspiring Individuals S AT U R DAY O P E N M O R N I N G S 18th Jan • 8th Feb • 29th Feb • Inspiring happy children who achieve senior school scholarship and exam success • Individualised learning in small classes • Funded places available (Scholarships & Bursaries) • Extensive extra curricular programme of sports, music, drama, and art • Breakfast club, after school care, and holiday clubs • Registration Open for Reception 2020

For more information contact our Registrar Tel:

01189 478 684 • Email: secretary@cavershamschool.com R&A | 19

EDUC ATION

Banbury Chipping Norton 26

Bicester 24

AYLESBURY

8 36

12

OXFORD 27 4

15 23

2

Abingdon 18

11 20

Wallingford 3

Wantage

22

16

32 6

14 13

25 38

33 1

28 30

Marlborough 19

35

5 7 21

READING 37

Newbury 39 10 34 17 29

40

Bath

Basingstoke

9

Slough 31

E D U C AT I O N

THAMES VALLEY

d Schools & organisations

1.

Oratory Preparatory School, RG8 7QA, 0118 984 4511

2.

Abingdon Preparatory School, OX13 5NX, 01865 391570

3.

Brightwell cum Sotwell C of E Primary School, OX10 0QH, 01491 837024

4.

Oxford Science Studies Ltd, OX4 1BD, 01865 240637

5.

Hemdean House school, RG4 7SD, 01189 472590

6.

Herries Preparatory School, SL6 9BD, 01628 483350

7.

Caversham Preparatory School, RG4 8JZ, 0118 947 8684

www.oratoryprep.co.uk/ www.abingdon.org.uk/prep/ www.brightwell.oxon.sch.uk/ https://www.oxss.co.uk/ www.hemdeanhouse.co.uk/ www.herries.org.uk www.cavershamschool.com

8.

Summer Fields School, OX2 7EN, 01865 459204

9.

Little Ducklings Day Nursery, RG5 3NA, 0118 430 2822

www.summerfi elds.com

10.

Newbury College, RG14 7TD, 01635 845000

www.newbury-college.ac.uk

11.

Abingdon & Witney College, OX14 1GG, 01235 555585

www.abingdon-witney.ac.uk

12.

Abingdon & Witney College, OX28 6NE, 01993 703464

www.abingdon-witney.ac.uk

13.

Cranford House School, OX10 9HT, 01491 651218

14.

Moulsford Boys Prep School, OX10 9HR, 01491 651438

15.

Chandlings, OX1 5ND, 01865 730771

www.littleducklingsdaycare.co.uk

www.cranfordhouse.net www.moulsford.com www.chandlings.org.uk

16.

Puddleduck Nursery, OX10 8BA, 01491 839815

17.

St. Gabriel’s, RG20 9BD, 01635 555680

www.puddleducknursery.com

18.

The Manor Preparatory School, OX13 6LN, 01235 858462

19.

Marlborough College Summer School, SN8 1PA, 01672 892388

20.

Our Lady's Abingdon School, OX14 3PS, 01235 524658

21.

Queen Anne’s School, RG4 6DX, 0118 918 7333

22.

St. Laurence C of E School, OX10 7DX, 01865 858270

23.

Buckland Church of England Primary School, SN7 8RB, 01367 870236

24.

ARCh Oxfordshire, OX26 6AA, 01869 320380

25.

Checkendon Church of England Primary School, RG8 0SR, 01491 680693

26.

Kingham Hill School, OX7 6TH, 01608 658658

27.

NTC – School De Droomtorens, OX1 4NA

28.

The Downs School, RG20 6AD, 01635 270000

29.

Horris Hill, RG20 9DJ, 01635 40594

30.

Pangbourne College, RG8 8LA, 0118 984 2101

31.

St John's Beaumont Preparatory Boys, SL4 2JN, 01784 432428

32.

Little Roos Marlow, SL7 1JW, 01628 476672

33.

Maiden Erlegh Chiltern Edge, RG4 9LN, 0118 972 1500

34.

Mary Hare Primary School, RG19 8XA, 01635 244215

35.

Mary Hare Secondary School, RG14 3BQ, 01635 244215

36.

Dragon School, OX2 6SS, 01865 315400

37.

Practical Philosophy Berkshire, RG1 4HJ, 01628 947 848

www.practicalphilosophyberkshire.org/

38.

Practical Philosophy Berkshire, SL6 6JE, 01628 947 848

www.practicalphilosophyberkshire.org/

39.

Progressive Technology Ltd, RG14 5TS, 01635 500480

40.

Kingswood School, BA1 5RG, 01225 734210

41.

Master Builders Club, info@masterbuildersclub.co.uk

www.stgabriels.co.uk www.manorprep.org www.summerschool.co.uk www.olab.org.uk/open-morning www.qas.org.uk/ www.st-laurence.oxon.sch.uk/ www.bucklandprimaryschool.org.uk www.archoxfordshire.org.uk www.checkendon.oxon.sch.uk www.kinghamhill.org.uk www.dedroomtorens.org.uk/ www.thedownsschool.org.uk/ www.horrishill.com/ www.pangbourne.com/ www.sjbwindsor.uk/ www.littleroosdaynursery.co.uk www.maidenerleghchilternedge.co.uk www.maryhare.org.uk www.maryhare.org.uk www.dragonschool.org

http://progressive-technology.co.uk www.kingswood.bath.sch.uk www.masterbuildersclub.co.uk

R&A | 21

EDUC ATION

Story

competition winners Our younger readers have proved to be a very talented imaginative bunch if the entries for our short story competition are anything to go by. We received a great variety of stories demonstrating there could well be some future David Walliams’ and J K Rowling’s out there. Well done to all who took part, here are their winning entries…

Keep Dreaming by Bethan Hopton

B

ethan’s entry charmed us for the way she showed how small random acts of kindness can make all the difference, often in the most unexpected ways and how dreams can come true Sam was cycling down a hill when all of a sudden… ”STOP”. He looked behind him and saw an elderly man next to a road. “Little boy” he croaked “can you be a dear and help me across the road?” Sam flinched at the word “little” but he couldn’t help stopping his bike and going over to help the man.

He checked the road to see if there was any traffic.

He was used to checking the road as he was twelve.

He went out on his own all the time!

They walked across the road really slowly because it took ages for Sam to walk whilst carrying all of the man’s heavy bags. Sam checked his watch. He had been helping the man for almost five minutes 22 | JANUARY 2020

and they were barely quarter of the way across the road!

Sam sighed as he thought of the football match he had intended to watch when he got home from school. It would be starting any minute!

“Did you have a good day at school?” the man asked in a suspiciously high voice. ”I guess,” murmured Sam. Eventually, they got to the end of the road. “Bye,” Sam said and began to climb onto his bike. “Bye,” the old man called after him.

When he got home, Sam slumped onto the sofa and switched on the television. He groaned as he looked at the time. He had missed a whole half an hour of the game. “Mum” he called ”can I have a drink?” ”Sure” she answered.

The next day at school started normally. Sam met his friends outside the gates and cast a cheeky grin at Ffion, his girlfriend who was d

Hemdean House School Caversham

Hemdean House’s Minibus Success!

NG TARTI

S S PLACE FINAL PTION CE FOR RE 0

02 SEP 2

EXCELLENCE IN INDEPENDENT EDUCATION FOR BOYS AND GIRLS AGED 2 - 18

Their future

In order to help more parents get their children to and from school, we recently introduced after school drop offs to our Minibus service. We are delighted to announce the uptake was so popular that we have added a further Minibus! This will allow us to consider alternative routes from the new school year and branch out even further.

Starts in Reception September 2020

Specialist teaching starting in Reception Small class sizes with superb facilities Excellent pastoral care Rated “Excellent” in all categories* Over 100 extra curricular clubs on offer Oxfordshire/Berkshire minibus service

For more information on routes and timings, contact the school directly on office@hemdeanhouse.net.

Look out for our new school website coming soon!

Hemdean House School Hemdean Road, Caversham, Reading, Berkshire RG4 7SD Tel: 0118 947 2590 www.hemdeanhouse.co.uk

Cranford House School, Moulsford, Wallingford, Oxfordshire OX10 9HT www.cranfordhouse.net *Latest inspection Nov 2014

CranfordHouse_Round&About_71.5x91.5mm_JAN AW.indd 1

11/12/2019 10:54

“A place with a palpable buzz and vibrancy that gets the balance between giving children the freedom to be themselves, whilst maintaining a focus on traditional values, excellent manners and respect, absolutely spot on.”

The Good Schools Guide Review 2019

OPEN MORNINGS 5 FEBRUARY • 6 FEBRUARY • 29 FEBRUARY 2020 Goring Heath, near Reading • RG8 7QA • 0118 984 4511 • c.atkinson@oratoryprep.co.uk • oratoryprep.co.uk

R&A | 23

EDUC ATION

standing outside the assembly hall when he got in.

Everybody was sat down when the head teacher entered. ”So,” she said, “we have a special guest today and I’ll let them introduce themselves.”

She walked off the stage and an elderly man walked on. Sam instantly realised that the man was the same man that he had helped yesterday and smiled at him. “Hello,” the man said, peeling off a mask, “I am Harry Kane.”

Sam stared at Harry and gasped. He recognised him! “You will be pleased to know that I have chosen Sam Jeffers to be my mascot at our next game because of his kindness to elderlies.

I disguised myself as an elderly man yesterday, waiting for someone to help me. Many people ignored me but Sam helped me even though he didn’t seem to particularly want to.”

Beeep! Sam’s alarm clock was beeping. ”Are you awake?” his mum called from downstairs. “Yes” Sam shouted back.

He quickly got changed in the uniform that Harry had told him to wear and jumped in the car. They got to the stadium early so that Harry could go over things with him.

Sam gasped “It’s amazing!” “I know” whispered Harry “Good luck!”

Turning over a new leaf by Elijah Mayers

E

lijah’s use of description, painting pictures through words made it easy to visualise the story he was telling and again showed the value of being kind and thinking of others Sam was cycling down the hill when all of a sudden, his mother appeared by the roadside with her hands firmly placed on her hips. He knew straight away that something was very wrong. Sam got off the bike and walked sheepishly with his head down towards his mum.

Sam’s mother Simone was a stout overweight woman who always wore clothes two sizes too small. Her face was as round and pale as the moon.

Her eyes were cold and blue like the sea. Her black hair was long and thin like liquorice running down to her waist. Simone in her high-pitched voice shrieked at Sam to “Get in the house!!!”.

Sam made his way into the house and went straight into the living-room. The house was a mess and Dad lay spread out on the sofa fast asleep. Sam’s dad was a skinny man with a potbelly who loved to wear string-vests. He had thick Ginger hair covering his entire body, making him look like an orangutan. As he slept, Sam’s dad snored. In fact, he snored so loudly that the glass of water on the table next to him shook and eventually fell on the floor.

Ever since Sam’s dad had been sacked for stealing a pair of pink pyjamas from the warehouse where he worked, all he did was lay around the house snoring like a tractor.

Simone soon 24 | JANUARY 2020

followed Sam into the living-room and scream at him “What have you done!!!”. Simone went on to explain that the Headmaster’s office had called her, and they wanted a meeting tomorrow.

“I can’t miss work and your dad is useless, so your grandad will have to go with you,” Simone yelled.

A wave of fear spread over Sam and that night, he had a horrible nightmare about being told off by the Headmaster.

The next day, the doorbell rang as Sam was getting dressed for school. It was his grandad Jonas wearing a bright green suit and a blue tie shimmering in the sun. Sam sighed and let him in.

Later at school, the Headmaster’s secretary told them to wait in the Headmaster’s office. Sam was so worried that he started to feel nauseous.

A moment later, a tall skinny man entered the room and introduced himself as Mr Pearce the Headmaster.

Mr Pearce explained that in the past, Sam had been in trouble a lot of times for bullying. Sam was known for Kicking, punching and pushing the smaller pupils in the school. Recently, Sam has changed his behaviour and now actually helps the other pupils when they hurt themselves. Mr Pearce went on to say how pleased he was that Sam had turned over a new leaf and made himself a better person. Sam nearly fell off his chair when Mr Pearce told him they had awarded him a commendation.

When Sam got home, he showed Simone the commendation and she was so pleased that she nearly fainted.

From that day on, Sam’s mum stopped shrieking at him and started praising him instead.

Introduction to

A D F E AT U R E

philosophy Courses on offer in Practical Philosophy and Economics with Justice

P

ractical Philosophy Berkshire is again offering introductory philosophy courses in Reading and Maidenhead starting on Tuesday, 14th January.

These courses, which have been offered locally for more than 30 years, are designed to introduce the great concepts of western and eastern philosophy in a fun, interactive and practical way. No previous knowledge is required.

Also on Monday evenings in Reading, Economics with Justice. This is based on the course offered in London that has developed over the last 80 years.

This is a course in ethical economics, exploring how economics can be directed towards providing freedom and prosperity, enabling people to live together naturally; how the economy can work in the best interests of all and in harmony with nature – but why it doesn’t often do so.

To find out more visit https://www. practicalphilosophyberkshire.org/

MAKE LIFE MAKE SENSE This course of 10 weekly adventures in Philosophy looks at life’s assumptions. Armed with sayings of the wise and building on personal experience, it encourages students to find the freedom to be the master, not the slave, of events. We invite you to explore everyday - and yet perennial – questions, in the company of like-minded people.

PracticalPhilosophyBerkshire.org School of Philosophy and Economic Science, charity numbers 313115 and SCO039950

Practical Philosophy Berkshire

Painting courtesy: Jeffery Courtney

R&A | 25

RAMBLIN G S

Caversham Aerial Services TV Aerials Supplied and Fitted Poor Reception? Old Aerials?

Can’t get the new digital channels?

Give us a call – We can help!

Phone 0118 967 3596 www.caversham-aerials.co.uk

á ...Continued from page 14.

considering it as your venue or just want to meet some local suppliers this is a "one-stop shop" essentially for all the answers. The wedding coordinator will be on hand to answer questions as you take in the riverside setting where the venue can cater for anything from 10 to 180 guests. The wedding fair runs 11am to 3pm. To register your attendance visit www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/crowne-plaza-readingwedding-fair-12th-january-2020-tickets-76911792241 Make one of your new year’s resolutions to support local producers. Reading Farmers’ Market is a twice-amonth event showcasing fantastic local food and drink – fruit and veg, meat, fish and eggs, fresh baked goods and much more. There are often seasonal and ad hoc sellers.

The market is held at the Cattle Market, Great Knollys Street, from 8.30am to noon. Go along and "shop local" on Saturdays 4th and 18th.

If you’re looking for a new job in the new year, then make sure you put Reading Jobs Fair in your diary. The event on Friday, 24th January, will feature about 30 companies recruiting on the day so make sure you take your CV. You can register with employers for jobs, collect info on employers, ask questions, apply for jobs or even have a mini interview on the day. The jobs fair runs from 10am to 1pm at the Town Hall in Blagrave Street. It’s free and there’s no need to register, just turn up and see what’s for you.

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26 | JANUARY 2020

There are still a few days left to catch this year’s family fun panto at The Hexagon; Cinderella starring Reading’s favourite CBBC star Justin Fletcher. Join the cast for a ball and find out if Cinders’ dreams come true or if her wicked stepmother and evil stepsisters thwart her dreams.

The amazing show runs until Sunday, 5th January, except on new year’s day with two shows a day. Tickets £15. To book call 0118 960 6060 or visit www.whatsonreading. com/venues/hexagon/whats-on/cinderella

There’s a celebration of all that’s good in the business and community world with the Thames Valley Business and Community Awards on Thursday, 30th January. There are 12 awards to be presented with nominees on their edge of their seats in categories ranging from charity of the year to the leisure and tourism award to apprentice and entrepreneur of the year awards. The ceremony at the Hilton Reading will celebrate some truly wonderful winners. Good luck to them all!

Join the world’s leading adventure film-makers and explorers as they push themselves to the limits in some stunning locations. The Banff Mountain Film Festival features epic feats and challenges and with some cinematography that’ll blow your mind on the big screen!

d...Continued on page 31.

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FILM

Marvellous mountains Scale new heights with this year’s films with the Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour Picture: Ben Tibbetts

C

elebrate the great outdoors with exhilarating stories and intrepid characters as the Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour returns for 2020.

The tour features two different collections of films from the world’s best film makers, with super-human challenges, inspiring journeys and stunning cinematography from the four corners of the globe.

free prize draw for exciting outdoorsy goodies from the tour partners.

Details of the films for the 2020 tour have yet to be released but if those for the 2019 season are anything to go by, they are sure to be hair-raising and breath-taking.

UK tour director Neil Teasdale said: “We can’t wait to share the latest

The tour’s films are chosen from hundreds of entries into the Banff Mountain Film Festival, which is held every November in the Canadian Rockies. The UK and Ireland tour visits 60 locations along the way. As well as thrilling films, each event features a

inspirational films from the world’s most prestigious mountain film festival on our biggest tour yet.

“As well as exhilarating stories starring intrepid characters and pioneering journeys, an evening at Banff is a celebration of the great outdoors, with a vibrant atmosphere and a real sense of community. And we guarantee audiences will leave inspired to have an adventure of their own.”

For more information about the films and to book tickets please visit www.banff-uk.com The tour comes to The Hexagon in Reading on Wednesday, 29th January, and Wednesday, 18th March.

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A happy, prosperous 2020 to you! Have you made any resolutions?

I

Tablet/Granular 25kg from

Care and Support in your Own Home

used to make one or two and then break them so I don’t bother any more. I just resolve to try and look after myself generally, have fun and – most importantly of all – still enjoy my baking!

It’ll be seven years since I took part in the Great British Bake Off and already I have over 30 bookings for this year which is amazing considering all the bakers that have gone through since our series, but also gratifying. Lot of you ask me if I ever get fed up with all I do. I reply that when I feel that way I’ll give up but while I enjoy it all I shall carry on!

2020 is full of fun with the fifth Didcot Food Festival, Street Fair Parade and much more! Of course, I can’t do it all alone… I’m a part of Didcot Events and have tremendous help from the committee. Our chairwoman is Jeanette Howse who founded the Street Fair in 1994 and has masterminded them all. The committee are all volunteers who work so hard purely for the good of the community.

I hope new residents to Didcot support us! If you or your group wish to join in email chris@didcotevents.co.uk

• Live-in care • All aspects of personal care • Assistance with household tasks • Light meal preparation • Shopping help • General companionship and accessing the community • Night-sitting service • Waking night service • Direct payments accepted Caremark (West Berkshire, South Oxfordshire and Reading)

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Patios / Driveways / Decking / Fencing Gates / Gate Automation / Turfing Retaining Walls / Garden Design

Now food…if you still have any leftover cooked poultry visit www.bakerchristine.co.uk and try my Curry in a Hurry or Leftover Turkey Pie. The lovely Chicken Caesar wraps use chicken fillets, but you can easily substitute with cooked meat. These are particularly fun to make, perhaps with the children as they love to see the pitta wraps puff up, delicious for a lunchtime snack or quick supper.

When I’m visiting various WIs I get great feedback on my recipes and super hints and tips. No one ever knows everything; I learn new things every day so if YOU have any gems or new recipes let me know through my website!

Before Bake Off I NEVER created recipes but I do it all the time now and find it SO rewarding. I worked a couple of years ago with a local brewery to develop different dishes using their beers and it was so much fun! My husband loved time as the garage was full of different beers!

See you in February, keep warm, be happy!

Christine XX

Tel: 0118 972 1423 Mob: 07789 222 310 Email: saslandscaping@gmail.com

www.saslandscaping.co.uk R&A | 29

RECI P E

Ingredients: • • • • • • • • •

Vive la

revolution!

• •

•

We share an exclusive recipe from Ollie Hunter’s upcoming sustainable cookbook with two copies up for grabs

•

Ä Chicken breast tagine

•

with locally dried fruit

Method:

P

reheat the oven to 180°C fan/200°C/400°F/gas mark 6. Mix all the spices together and set aside.

Rub the chicken breasts with 1 tbsp of the spice mix.

Add a few glugs of oil to an ovenproof saucepan and place over a medium heat. Quickly fry the chicken breasts – just to sear the outside on both sides – then remove from the pan and leave to one side.

Win!...

We have two copies of Ollie Hunter’s book to give away. Visit www.roundandabout. co.uk to enter

Add some more oil to the same pan and then sauté the diced onion, garlic, coriander stalks and chilli until soft. Once soft, stir in the rest of the spice mix and cook for a few minutes. Add the wine, cider or water to deglaze the pan. Add the tomatoes and molasses and give it a little stir.

Simmer for 10 minutes to reduce the sauce.

Add the drained beans or pulses and dried fruit, stir and season with salt. Nestle each seared chicken breast into the sauce, then add 100 ml/31/3 fl oz/1/3 cup cold water and transfer to the oven to cook for between 30 and 35 minutes.

Serve the tagine scattered with fresh coriander leaves and perhaps some edible flowers, with dollops of yogurt and some spelt or couscous.

30 | JANUARY 2020

•

•

1 tbsp ground cumin 1 tbsp ground coriander 1 tbsp ground turmeric 1 tbsp paprika Two raw chicken breasts Oil of your choice, for frying One onion, diced Six garlic cloves, diced A handful of fresh coriander (cilantro), with stalks diced and leaves left whole One red chilli, diced 100 ml/31/3 fl oz or 1/3 cup red wine, water or even cider (hard cider) 1 x 400g/14oz can of chopped tomatoes 1 tbsp apple molasses, or use whatever molasses is locally produced 1 x 400g/14oz cooked beans or pulses – cannellini beans are delicious Handful of local dried fruits such as prunes, damsons or apricots, pitted Salt

To serve • Dollops of plain yogurt • Grains such as spelt or couscous, cooked

Prep: 25 minutes Cooking: 35 minutes Serves: Two

RAMBLINGS

á ...Continued from page 26.

If you’re looking for a thrilling start to your year there's nothing better than going to the Hexagon on Wednesday, 29th January at 7.30pm. Book at www.banff-uk.com There’s another chance to get your new year off to a fresh start with a careers fair at PentaHotel, Oxford Road, Reading on Friday, 17th January. The fair will offer candidates from all backgrounds, experience and education the opportunity to speak to a variety of local employers all in one place. Meet employers face-to-face and get the chance to ask as many questions as you like and find out as much as you can about potential employers. The event is from 10am to 2pm and there’s no need to register, just turn up on the day and make the most of the opportunities on offer. Find out more at www.ukcareersfair.com

A peer support group for those affected by mental illness, Mental Health Mates – Reading, organises walks and talks for those in the area and their families, children, friends and dogs on leads. Meet on the middle of Caversham Bridge for the walk which will be from 10.30am to noon on Saturday, 18th January.

If you need to blow away the cobwebs this new year then how about taking part in the Woodcote 10k on Sunday, 12th January starting at 10.15am? The event is

limited to 600 runners, if you’re leaving it late to enter keep checking www.woodcote10k.org.uk as a notice will be posted if they are reaching the limit. Runners are advised to arrive before 9.30am to avoid congestion and parking spaces are limited. Hot drinks will be provided before and after the race as well as a water station en route and at the finish. Race numbers and timing chips will be distributed from the village hall. All finishers receive a medal and trophies will be awarded to winners with the presentation scheduled to be in the village hall around 11.45am. See the website as above for more information.

Enjoy a winter wonderland in Sonning Common with the chance to build a snowman from playdough or paper, play in the igloo with snowballs, seals and the polar bear.

Pop up Play Village is inviting you to build an igloo and let your imagination run riot. There’ll be the chance to enjoy some messy play and crafts too, so pack your slippers and join in. Join in the fun at Sonning Common Village Hall on Thursday, 16th January, 10-11.15am. To find out more and to book a place visit www.popupplayvillage.co.uk/ event/winter-wonderland-in-sonning-common-2/

Here’s a different way to mark the new year – go along to The Servants’ Ball at The Museum of Rural Life, Redlands Road, Reading. Once a long-held tradition in

d...Continued on page 33.

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R&A | 31

Competitions

Closing date for competitions is 12pm on 31st January

FREE to enter online OR via post (use the address on page 4) * To check results, call 01491 837621* Winners will be notified * Postal entries are accepted. Please include a “yes” or “no” if you wish to opt in or out of marketing communications from the competition supplier and Round & About Publications Ltd. Entries without a name, address or telephone number will not be valid.

Full terms & conditions online* STRICTLY ONE ENTRY PER COMPETITION PER HOUSEHOLD To enter all competitions, visit

www.roundandabout.co.uk

Win! Two VIP pairs of tickets to the spectacular

Planet Earth II Live in Concert 2020 up for grabs

From BBC Studios and the acclaimed BBC Natural History unit behind Blue Planet II and Dynasties, this UK & Ireland arena tour is a must-see experience.

Hosted by Liz Bonnin and featuring music by Hans Zimmer performed by the City Of Prague Philharmonic Orchestra, audiences can enjoy sensational footage from the BAFTA and EMMY® award winning BBC series. The show brings you closer to the planet’s spellbinding animals, landscapes and wildlife dramas than ever before. The arena tour runs from 26th March to 4th April and our two lucky winners can choose between London or Birmingham shows. Enter as above & visit www.planetearth2live.uk for more info about the show or to book.

Win! A luxurious Sonoma Indulge spa day for two at Donnington Valley Hotel & Spa in Hampshire

Surrounded by stunning parkland, Donnington Valley Hotel & Spa is a privately owned hotel, spa and golf club. Awarded the prestigious ‘5 Bubbles’ by the Good Spa Guide, the hotel’s spa is a light, uplifting space with heavenly treatments and a menu designed to leave you feeling relaxed and revitalised. One lucky reader will win a luxury Spa Day for two worth £250.

The winner and guest will enjoy a welcome smoothie or hot drink, light breakfast, delicious Bento style lunch or classic afternoon tea, plus 55-minute treatment per person and full use of the spa facilities. Enter as above or, for more information or to book, visit www.donningtonvalley.co.uk

Win! Dinner, bed & breakfast for two at The French Horn in Sonning on the banks of The Thames

Alongside the bridge in the busy village of Sonning, The French Horn (originally a coaching inn) has been run by the Emmanuel family since 1972, with a focus on excellent food and service. It has a reputation as one of the area’s finest restaurants with comfortable rooms. Head chef Josiane Diaga and her team use the best seasonal produce to create delicious classical meals, allowing flavours to speak for themselves. There’s an extensive wine cellar to complement the fine food. Our winner can stay with a guest, enjoying dinner and breakfast (excl drinks, dates subject to availability).

Enter as above and find out more or book at www.thefrenchhorn.co.uk 32 | JANUARY 2020

RAMBLINGS

á ...Continued from page 31

country estates (think Downton!), popular music of the day would be played alongside traditional country dance tunes.

And don’t worry if you’ve never danced before, there’s a free step dance workshop before the fun, 5.50-6.30pm, booking required. A pre-performance talk will be held at 7.30pm before the dancing starts at 8.30pm. Tickets £10 + £1 booking fee. For more information and to book visit www.merl.reading.ac.uk/event/servants-ball/ The University of Reading is looking for people to take part in a new study. Do you have a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease? Take part in original research which aims to understand the adjustment process to your diagnosis and the role of psychological support in your journey. This research may help to inform and influence organisations such as the NHS to indicate where physical and emotional support is needed. It will take roughly 20 minutes to complete an online questionnaire, and your responses will be kept confidential. For more information about the study and to take part in it, please visit: www. reading.onlinesurveys.ac.uk/neurological-conditions2019jdr

There are fun activities at Reading Museum starting with an artists' drawing day of insects on Saturday, 11th January, 10am to 4pm. Share in a day based on flat trays of

TOGETHER WE HAVE THE ABILITY TO DO MORE

Part time Secretary/Administrator Being a member of Foresters Friendly Society is incredibly rewarding, allowing you to share your skills, give back to your community and make new friends.

We’re currently looking for a Secretary/Administrator, which will be homebased, for our branch in

Henley on Thames. You will need good organisational and basic financial skills, the ability to enthuse and socialise with people.

The positions offer an honorarium for 4/5 hours per week of circa £2,400 per annum plus reasonable expenses. Training will be given.

To apply or seek more information, please contact Sharon Blunsdon at sblunsdon@ forestersfriendlysociety.co.uk or phone 01869 240528. Closing date for applications: Friday 31 January 2020.

pinned butterflies, moths and beetles. Specimens include Indian butterflies and British moths. £20. Book at www. readingmuseum.org.uk/whats-on/artist%E2%80%99sdrawing-day-insects On 25th January, why not have a go at making origami animals? Animals have been folded from paper for centuries so join experienced origami artist, author and teacher Tung Ken Lam. Skill ranges from beginner to intermediate. Each hour explores a different animal; book as you wish (10-11am – birds, 11.30am-12.30pm - fish, 1-2pm - insects, 2.30pm-3.30pm – mythological animals). Suitable for ages 12+. £7 per person per slot. To book visit www. readingmuseum.org.uk/whats-on/origami-animals

Do you like to play chess? A local appeal for all interested in like-minded players has had a solid start!

Now the new club – Watlington and South Oxfordshire – is securely based and playing in the West Room in Old School Place, every Thursday from 7.30pm. Organiser Tim Horton says: “We've members who have not played since school, some who have played the odd game on the internet and accompanied young people who want to test their brain cells in a supportive place! We are the only club for 10 miles registered with the English Chess Federation. Please email timhorton1664@gmail.com

Enjoy the start to 2020 and we'll be back next month with more ideas and news KN

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wokinghamauctions.com R&A | 33

TH EAT RE

Rain supreme

Peter Anderson catches up with musical arranger Charlie Ingles about tap-dancing sensation Singin’ in the Rain at The Mill At Sonning

A

brilliant script, show-stopping choreography and a hit-parade score of Hollywood standards are promised in musical form at the Mill.

This year it is the greatest movie musical of all time, Singin’ in the Rain. And, yes, inside the theatre there will be real rain! Set in Hollywood in the waning days of the silent screen era, Singin’ In The Rain centres on romantic lead Don Lockwood, his sidekick Cosmo Brown, aspiring actress Kathy Selden, and Lockwood’s leading lady Lina Lamont, whose less-than-dulcet vocal tones make her an unlikely candidate for This will be the stardom in the transition from silent films first year we’ve to “talkies”.

“

included tap

I caught up with musical arranger Charlie Ingles, who once again teams up with director Joseph Pitcher, during a gap in rehearsals. I wanted to ask: what can the audience at the Mill look forward to? “Something new for our musicals at the Mill, which we have been doing now for a few years. This will be the first year that we have included tap dancing in the show, as part of Ashley Nottingham’s brilliant choreography. One thing we decided was that because the orchestra are “remote” in another part of the Mill and video-linked, we would aim to recreate the MGM film sound.”

34 | JANUARY 2020

“You need know your space when you are arranging the music. It is easier in a larger theatre, especially one with a built-in orchestra pit, as they are designed to amplify the sound. But Joseph and I have worked together all the musicals at the Mill, and we can spend a couple of days working out what we want to achieve. Then I work out the instruments and arrangements to get that ‘sound’. With going for the film sound, this means we enjoy the lovely harmonies, rather than the large sound that would be needed to fill a major theatre.”

Are there any musicals on Charlie’s wish list, for the Mill or elsewhere? “Oh, there are three! I would really love to do a reworking of Oklahoma.

There is another musical which is not often done called The Drowsy Chaperone. It was written in the late 1990s and is a parody of the 1920s musicals.

Then, I don’t know if we would do it at the Mill, (though the timing would be ideal), but I would really love to do White Christmas.”

If you enjoyed High Society, My Fair Lady or last year’s Guys & Dolls at The Mill, you will not want to miss this irresistibly charming show. Singin’ in the Rain runs until Saturday 8th February. For tickets please visit www.millatsonning.com or call the box office on 0118 969 8000.

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