Thatcham Connections - Issue 87 (Summer 2023)

The Independent directory serving residents of Thatcham & Newbury

Dear Readers,

I am writing this in mid May and the branches are heaving up and down with the wind, so its hard to think of you reading this in June which will surely be warmer.

As you may know, we are quite a small business but this issue marks our eighteenth birthday. Thanks to you, our dear readers - and our faithful advertisers - we are happy and thriving. Also, there would be no possibility of printing without the help of either our brilliant Graphic Designer (Ed) or our totally reliable Printer. (also Ed). They have both helped us hugely for very many years. See details on rhs.

We would now, however, like to find someone else to taKe OVer the rUNNING OF thIs Great LIttLe BUsINess. Perhaps you or a friend know someone who would enjoy it - as I have? The person selected could have my full support and help if required.

Have a lovely Summer break.

All best wishes,

Love matters (p43)

“This is for you Rosy and thank you for your wonderful support.”

01980 874242

Unit 9 Wyevale Garden Centre, Bath Road, Thatcham, RG10 3AN

01635 897665

01380 887943

The Wendy House, 3 Farrell Close, Cirencester, GL7 1HW

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Books to read

By Tash Donovan

THE ALICE NETWORK

by Kate Quinn

The Alice Network is set in the aftermath of World War Il though it straddles both world wars, and follows two women, Charlie St. Clair, and Eve Gardiner, as they navigate the dangerous world of espionage in search of a lost relative.

Charlie St. Clair is a young American woman who is pregnant out of wedlock. She is sent to Europe by her family to have the ‘problem’ taken care of. But she breaks free to search for her cousin Rose, who disappeared during the war. She meets Eve Gardiner, a former spy for the Alice Network, a secret organization of female spies, who now spends her day drunk, haunted by her past. Together, the two women embark on a journey to find Rose and uncover the truth about her disappearance.

As they delve deeper into the world of espionage and the aftermath of the war, they encounter a cast of characters, including former spies, soldiers, and politicians, who each have their own secrets. The two women must navigate

this dangerous world, relying on their wits and the support of each other to stay alive.

The novel explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and the aftermath of war. Its powerful narrative is a testament to the bravery and resilience of women in a time when their roles were often limited. Quinn’s novel is well-researched and beautifully written that will appeal both to fans of historical fiction and anyone who enjoys a page-turning spy thriller.

LETTERS FROM THE LIGHTHOUSE

by Emma Carroll

Letters from the Lighthouse is set during World War II. The story follows two siblings, Olive and Cliff, who are evacuated from London to a coastal town in Devon. Their older sister Sukie went missing during an air raid and they have no idea where she is, though a note found in Sukie’s coat pocket suggests that she was involved in something dangerous. Then, among the close-knit community where they’ve been evacuated, Olive discovers something which ties Sukie to a plot as dangerous as it is puzzling.

What do the mysterious letters that the children receive from the lighthouse on the coast mean?

Written by a shadowy figure known only as “The Keeper”, they provide Olive and Cliff with clues which send the siblings off on a dangerous adventure that takes them through the streets of the town and the surrounding countryside. Through their encounters with a spy, a resistance fighter, and a band of smugglers, they must use their wits and their courage to stay alive and uncover the truth.

PETER KIRKHAM

BERKSHIRE FRAMING COMPANY

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Open: Tuesday-Friday 9am-3pm & Saturday by appointment only

Plenty of car parking available

• Replacement glass fitting (specialist anti reflective glass for clarity and protective UV filters)

Tel: 07806 563322 email: b@berkshireframing.com

www.berkshireframing.com

Highwood View, Birds Lane, Midgham, Berks, RG7 5UL

For all your soft furnishing and sewing needs

Curtains, blinds, pelmets and alterations. Fabric choices and advice available

Contact: Judy Connolly

07747 634556

www.indigodesign.co.uk

DRAIN

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Buy a NEW BUILD with confidence

Buying a new build offers many buyers the opportunity to get onto, or move up, the housing ladder. There are plenty of advantages to new homes, including being able to specify the layout and minimal repair and decoration costs. Here are our tips to help you buy a new build with confidence.

Check for a warranty

New properties usually come with guarantees, such as the National House Building Council (NHBC)’s 10-year warranty, but some developers also provide additional warranties or guarantees. This varies from developer to developer, so is worth checking.

Ensure you know what you’re getting If you are buying ‘off-plan’ (without seeing the actual house), it can be hard to envisage exactly what your home is going to look like when you move in – don’t be swayed by the show home, as your new pad won’t come with all the staging props!

Make sure you ask the developer for a list of everything the property includes. Will the garden be landscaped? Are white goods, carpets, and fittings included? Having a list up-front will help you when it comes to the exciting activity of shopping for your new home, as well as help to avoid any unexpected costs down the line.

Negotiate a price

When buying a new build, it can be difficult to negotiate a purchase price, however, we recommend ensuring that you negotiate some incentives, for example, will the developer pay the stamp duty, install carpets, fitted wardrobes or even help with

energy costs for a certain period? Don’t be shy, if you don’t ask, you don’t get!

Consider your conveyancer

It’s not uncommon for developers to encourage buyers to use their preferred conveyancers or brokers. However, as with all house purchases, you can select an independent solicitor and lender to help you complete the process. This is an important decision and choosing your own conveyancer can be helpful in ensuring that they have your interests as a priority, rather than the developers’.

Talk to us about a mortgage for your new build

At Newbury Building Society, we provide 6-month mortgage offers for new build homes. This is longer than the average due to the property not being built yet! If you would like to talk about a morgage as a first-time buyer or for a new build home, appointments with our mortgage advisers are available on weekdays, in the evenings, and on Saturdays via video, phone, or in branch. Book online by visiting www.newbury.co.uk/mortgages/.

Visit our Thatcham branch; 4 High Street, Thatcham, RG19 3JD. Call: 01635 555777 or visit: www.newbury.co.uk

Matthew Wilding, Senior Branch Manager of Newbury Building Society’s Thatcham branch.

YOUR MORTGAGE IS SECURED ON YOUR HOME.THINK CAREFULLY BEFORE SECURING OTHER DEBTS AGAINST YOUR HOME. YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE.

Newbury Building Society is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority (Financial Services Register number 206077). English Law applies and we will communicate with you in English. We are participants of the Financial Ombudsman Service. We have a complaints procedure which we will provide on request. Most complaints that we cannot resolve can be referred to the Financial Ombudsman Service. 9501 Building Society Newbury

GARDNER LEADER’S 2023 CHECKLIST

3. A Letter of Wishes. As above, this letter is also held alongside your Will but allows you to be even more specific about what your wishes are. A common use for this is when you have children under the age of 18 and may wish to detail to a guardian how you would like your children raised. Or to provide examples of when an inheritance could be given to a child early, such as to pay for school fees, a house deposit or a car. This makes it easier for your trustees to make decisions.

IT IS VERY EASY TO POSTPONE AND PROCRASTINATE ON LIFE ADMIN TASKS THAT MAY RAISE UNCOMFORTABLE TOPICS OR MAY SEEM DIFFICULT TO DO.

A popular way to do this is listing them as a New Year’s Resolution to be subsequently forgotten about come February. However, although it may not be a priority for many, it is very important to ensure that you have a Will that is up to date and a power of attorney ready in case it is needed.

We would recommend having the following in place:

1. An up-to-date Will. Without a Will your estate will go through the intestacy rules, which may mean that those you wish to benefit from your estate don’t receive anything and it may instead go to people you would rather have not benefitted. Having an up-to-date Will ensures that your wishes and current circumstances are taken into account.

2. A Memorandum of Chattels. This is a document that is held alongside your Will. In essence it is a list of specific items that you may wish to gift to specific people, such as a watch or jewellery. The benefit of using a memorandum of chattels is that it can be easily updated as often as needed without having to change your Will.

4. A Lasting Power of Attorney for both property and financial affairs and health and welfare. This is a document that is used while you are still alive but lack physical or mental capacity to make decisions for yourself. A common misconception is that you should wait until you are elderly or ill to obtain a power of attorney. In fact, the opposite is true, these documents must be put into place when you have capacity and we typically recommend them to everyone over the age of 18. These documents will allow those who you appoint to step into your shoes. The property and financial power of attorney can be used to pay for any household or property expenses on your behalf. The health and welfare power of attorney allows your attorneys to express your views and beliefs to medical professionals when you are unable to do so, such as in relation to life sustaining treatment. If a power of attorney is not in place then your loved ones will be restricted in what they can do, even if they are your spouse.

Alex Poole, Solicitor

T: 01635 508085

E: a.poole@gardner-leader.co.uk

www.gardner-leader.co.uk

Buyspecs Direct

We are a family business supported by a friendly professional team that caters for all your optical needs. From detailed eye examinations to a wide choice of eyewear, your eye health is in good hands at BuySpecs Direct. Our philosophy is to provide tailored, high quality optical care for you and your family at an affordable price.

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Our practice offers topcon Maestro 3D-Oct (Ocular Coherence Tomographer) which uses laser scans to detect early macula changes and glaucoma retinal nerve fibre changes that would not be visible through our other tests. It also allows us to measure corneal central thickness and aassess Anterior Chamber Angles. We strongly recommend regular OCT examination especially of you are diabetic, have a family history of glaucoma or moderate to high shortsightedness.

Qualifications for 2023 onwards

At age 13/14 pupils in Year 9 have their first taste of responsibility for their future. It’s GCSE choices time! There are a myriad of courses including many subjects in traditional GCSE form with a series of exams at the end of the summer and some ‘controlled assessment’ which is an investigation or project submitted during the year. There are also courses which include a higher degree of practical learning such as Creative Media, Construction, or Enterprise (used to be called Business Studies) all of which are GCSE level qualifications. Both types of qualification are highly valuable and lead to the full range of options at Sixth Form. I can certainly myth bust a little here - you CAN do A Level courses if you studied a range of technical and traditional courses at GCSE, something that is always discussed at options evenings with parents.

At the age of 15/16 in Year 11 pupils have to make the next big choice: stay on at Sixth Form, go to a technical college or take on an apprenticeship. The rise of the apprenticeship has been exponential, not only for our pupils but as an employer. We offer them as a way of growing our workforce and developing careers. At Kennet Sixth Form there are again a whole range of qualifications, and pupils start to prepare for adult life more independently with all the additional events and enrichment courses, alongside bespoke career support and work placements. Something which sets Kennet pupils apart are the many leadership opportunities for pupils as universities and employers place high value on personal responsibility. We think this is imperative as pupils prepare for life beyond school. The course options available to pupils are again changing - something of which the public are often unaware unless they have a child or friend having to make these choices.

There is a whole range of A Level subject courses, mostly assessed by a series of exams at the end of two years, with a small number including elements of controlled assessment during the course such as Art and Geography etc. Really importantly, there is also a whole suite of technical options which are as highly valued as A Levels. These include BTEC style qualifications (structured into units of learning with

individual exams or project work) and T Levels which are the latest suite of qualifications to be on offer to pupils. T Levels answer the calls of employers to ready pupils for the work place. They are highly technical and include both practical learning and high academic rigour, providing a spring board into employment or further training including degree apprenticeship. Pupils have been securing high level paid degree pathways in computing, engineering and sciences over the last five years but this is a rapidly growing option. T Levels include both exam and project work but also a long term work placement through which the learning is applied and tested. These are game changing qualifications.

They have high entry requirements and are taught in specialised rooms which model the workplace. At Kennet there are two starting in September 23: Health and Social Care and Business Studies, with other courses joining the offer the following year. Many local employers are looking forward to meeting their long term placement pupils. Overall, these qualifications certainly chart a new path for the future medical professionals and business leaders in our community. The future is bright!

Mrs G Piper KSAT CEO

You have two minutes to find all the words of three or more letters that can be made from the letters above. Plurals are allowed, proper nouns are not. The 6-letter word will always be just a normal everyday word.

3 letters: 8 4 letters: 9 5 letters: 7 6 letters: 1

GarDeNING matters

LIQUID GOLD

Water conservation and management in the garden

As you swivel the magic turnkey that releases a gushing stream of clean and sparkling water into your can, pause for a moment. Marvel at the luck of the draw that finds us living in a part of the world where water is available for us to use and to misuse. The water that you pour into summer hanging baskets and sprinkle liberally on your beds and borders was once excreted by huge reptiles. Your café latte contains dinosaur pee.

Indeed, water on Planet Earth has been here for almost five billion years and the total amount is just about the same as ever. It represents the ultimate success story in terms of recycling. So, what’s the problem?

Portability is the problem. Gardeners will be familiar with the weight of a big can of water –bringing in water where it’s needed isn’t always easy. And when crops fail in Africa, knowing there’s ample water in the world for everyone is no help.

Climate change is causing a warmer atmosphere. We either have too much water or too little; Goldilocks would rarely judge things to be ‘just right’. What we all need to do is our bit, so what ‘bit’ is best in a garden, and how can gardeners help?

• Creating space for water within a garden can be life-enhancing. Aim to slow rainfall down –allow some of it to be absorbed in vegetation, then catch and retain some more. Provide a pond that collects water run-off, then enjoy watching the biodiverse-rich habitats that develop. Surround your pond with plants that can cope with flooding and drought. They will help to absorb some of the excess during times-a-plenty, but they won’t die of heat exhaustion during a prolonged dry spell. Some examples are: Acanthus, Astilbe, Brunnera,

Cornus, Eupatorium, Hemerocallis, Iris, Kniphofia, Miscanthus, Persicaria, Rudbeckia, Scabious and many more. Experimentation is all part of your gardening fun.

• In places that require hard materials, choose porous options through which the rain can drain.

• Divert your downpipes into water butts – these can be surprisingly beautiful if you shop around. It means you capture some of the rainwater for use when you need it the most.

• Choose drought-tolerant planting for the driest parts of your garden. These plants will generally have silvery-coloured leaves or foliage that is covered in fine hair, which reduces evaporation. Once established, they should survive the hottest, driest weather that they are ever likely to get, without needing to be watered. Surround them with gravel, pebbles or boulders as this will conserve what little moisture there is in the soil, plus it looks great too.

• Use plants to help your plants. One species can prop up another and provide shade if they are planted close together. Avoid bare patches of soil that will dry out in hot weather.

• Consider adding structural reinforcement to your shed roof so that you can add plants. It’s such a great look and captures water as it falls. Sedums and wildflowers will give you butterflies and bees all spring and summer long.

By Caroline Knight: Gardendesignideas.co.uk

Fabulous Fun Attractions, Fun Fair and Classic Cars

Fabulous Fun Attractions, Fun Fair and Classic Cars

Dazzling Dog Show, Dance and Music Stages

Dazzling Dog Show, Dance and Music Stages

Superb Sports Tasters, Street Food, Stalls and Street Theatre

Superb Sports Tasters, Street Food, Stalls and Street Theatre

Where can we go?

Tuesday 13th Jun,

Tuesday 20th Jun,

Tuesday 27th Jun and Tuesday 4 July

Thatcham Rock Choir

FREE taster session with the Thatcham Rock Choir

Thatcham baptist church, wheelers green way, Thatcham, berkshire rg19 4yf

start time: 8:00pm

If you have ever wondered ‘are there any community choirs near me?’ then the answer is firmly yes!

Your friendly local Thatcham choir is run by vocal teacher Chloe Payne. The choir will be performing locally again soon so it’s a chance for you to join in, sing and perform without pressure and under the supportive guidance of Chloe. Rock Choir members have performed and sung across the country at venues including Wembley Arena, on top of the BT tower and many more iconic landmarks. The choir also has a charitable function in raising money and awareness for Missing People and Refuge.

See why your local Thatcham choir is so popular by booking a FREE trial session!. It’s the new friends, the performance achievements, the socials, our incredible choir leader Chloe and above all - singing those very special pop song arrangements!

Here is a quote about our choir - ‘The most uplifting, inspirational and empowering choir in the country. Not only are they the biggest choir in the world, they truly do move you in a way I didn’t think possible ‘ - Nick Patrick (7 x Classical Brit Award winning record producer with record sales of 40 million records).

see page 30 – Thatcham fun day sunday 25th June!

book on https://rockchoir.com/

Friday 30 June 6.30pm

Swifts in Newbury

west berkshire museum, The wharf, newbury rg14 5as starts: 7.45pm

A walk and a talk by local bird expert, Ailsa Claybourn, about these amazing birds who are disappearing from our skies, and how we can help them.

Did you know they live almost entirely aerial lives, fly up to 2 million km/1.24 million miles in a lifetime, sleep with only half their brain at a time and bathe by flying through rain?

After a talk inside the Museum, Ailsa will take us to see swifts and their nest sites in a walk from West Berkshire Museum, along the canal and back through Westfields. This talk and walk is in support of Swift Awareness Week 2023.

Please note: places are limited and there will be no access to the Museum during or after the walk. book online: www. westberkshireheritage.org/whats-on

Saturday 1 July Opera on the Lawn

shaw house, church rd, shaw, berkshire rg14 2dr

gate 5pm, performance 6pm, adult £15, child £10 book online: booking.westberks. gov.uk/heritage_events.html?event_ id=1691286&companyId=37003

Newbury’s Kennet Opera present an outdoor programme of favourites, from the well-known to the rarely heard; the serious and the ridiculous; choruses, solos and everything in-between.

Bring your own picnic, warm clothes, seating/rug. The café will be open selling snacks, drinks and ice creams.

Performance approx. 90 mins with a 30 minute interval.

contact phone: 01635 279279

Call to check latest times or cancellations.

Sunday 16 July

Summer Fair

shaw house, church rd, shaw, berkshire rg14 2dr

Share all the fun of the Summer Fair in the beautiful surroundings of Shaw House! Out on the lawns you can browse over 45 craft stalls of local makers and visit our caterers offering a variety of hot food and drinks. To entertain we will have live music, craft activities, performances from Mr Muddle the Magician and children’s rides. In addition, there will be a dog show so remember to bring along your four legged friend!

The House, including the Exhibition Rooms, will be open. Our Dressed for Shaw costume exhibition will also be on display.

Dogs on leads are welcome outside.

11am – 4pm | Adults £2, Children £1 (Free for children aged 3 years and under).

contact telephone: 01635 519562

Call to check latest times or cancellation

Wednesday 26 July 10am-3pm

Family Activity Day

shaw house, church rd, shaw, berkshire rg14 2dr

no need to book, just drop-in, £2.50 per child

Our summer Family Activity Days are themed around the places that some of the spices were found in Elizabethan times. There is also a free Elizabethan spice trail.

Today’s Central American-themed craft is a musical stick to call the rain. With a cardboard tube, marker pens and other craft materials, you’ll make and decorate your own rainstick.

Aimed at 7-11 year olds, but younger and older children are welcome. An adult must remain with the child at all times; if possible, one accompanying adult per child only.

Please dress for mess, although disposable aprons will be available. You are however welcome to bring your own.

contact telephone: 01635 279279

Friday 28 July

Messy Museum Day: Skilful Saxons

west berkshire museum, The wharf, newbury rg14 5as 10am-3pm

Skilful Saxons - Make a tile from air-drying clay and then draw or stamp on Saxon patterns. Then

go and see the stamped Saxon pots on display. This event is part of the Festival of Archaeology 2023, and there is a free Archaeology trail.

Aimed at 7-11 year olds, but younger and older children are welcome. An adult must remain with the child at all times; if possible, one accompanying adult per child only.

Please dress for mess, although disposable aprons will be provided. You are however welcome to bring your own.

no need to book, just drop-in, £2.50 per child

Monday 14 August

Outdoor theatre: The Wizard of Oz

shaw house, church rd, shaw, berkshire rg14 2dr gates 5pm, performance 6pm, adults £13, child £9

You are invited to click your heels and ease on down the yellow brick road as Immersion Theatre proudly presents a brand-new adaptation of The Wizard of Oz, a magical family show guaranteed to have you in stitches from beginning to end. With lashings of audience participation, dazzling costumes, an original script and bags of laughter, our hilarious adaptation has consistently proven to be a huge hit with audiences all across the country. A fantastic treat for all the family, this high energy, larger-than-life show is a guaranteed good time whether you’re 4 or 104!

Suitable for all the family. Performance approx. 1hr 40 mins (plus 20 minute interval).

Please bring your own seating/ rug, warm clothes and picnic.

The café will be open selling snack, drinks and ice cream.

book online: tinyurl.com/bdem8hfw

contact telephone: 01635 279279

Call to check latest times or cancellations.

Disclaimer: whilst every effort has been taken in the preparation of these listings, Thatcham Connections accepts no liability for any inaccuracies, misprints or omissions. you are strongly advised to check current details before committing to an event and best to call the event in advance.

Offe R in G a R an G e O f c L asses and hea Lthca R e

LEVEL 2 IyEngAR yOgA TEAchER

Maria Bird

Maria Bird is the owner and creator of Orchard Life in Midgham, she has been practicing and teaching yoga for 30 years. With a wealth of knowledge in the discipline Maria has the ability to teach with empathy and light heartedness and has established herself as a well respected teacher in the local area. Classes range from beginners to intermediate and with student numbers limited you are always under her watchful eye. Maria is happy to discuss any questions you may have via email: mariayogalife@gmail.com or mobile: 07989 403167.

ShIATSU & kInESIOLOgy

fiona carson

Fiona has been working as a holistic health practitioner for 20 years, using zen shiatsu, energy healing and kinesiology to help clients with a wide range of ailments. Her sessions are individually tailored to suit your needs. Fiona’s mission is to help you feel better on every level, and to support and empower you to connect with your body and your deepest levels of self, in order to heal, grow and thrive. Fiona has helped thousands of clients with a wide range of health issues such as: headaches and migraines, back pain, joint pain, depression, anxiety, stress, digestive and menstrual problems to name a few. Find out how you too can feel good with shiatsu and kinesiology! Call: 07958 543320 or Email: ficarson@gmail.com. Website: www.fionacarson.com.

OSTEOpAThy

danielle Gadd & Gary hickling

Danielle and Gary are registered with the General Osteopathic Council and are fully insured. They are specialists at fixing problems in your muscles and joints using techniques such as soft tissue massage, manual therapy, stretching and improving the mobility of your joints. They also treat conditions such as Headaches, Sciatica, Pregnancy Related Pain, Sports Injuries & Arthritis. Find out more information and book online at www.nolanosteopathy.co.uk or call: 01635 597290. We are a registered provider with health insurance companies including Aviva, Cigna, Health Shield, Vitality Health, Simply Health & WPA.

pILATES

Mel Rickerby

Mel is a highly skilled Pilates teacher who has been practising and teaching Pilates for many years. Mel teaches small groups and individuals in the Orchard Life Studio. With her experience and knowledge, Mel is able to explain to and support students of all levels. Pilates complements all aspects of life at every level by developing strength, alignment and breathing. Improving your fitness and well being. Please contact Mel who is happy to discuss any questions or concerns you may have via email: mel.pilates@btinternet.com or mobile: 07776 482360.

REFLEXOLOgy & REIkI

nicky Broomfield

A member of the Association of Reflexologists and the Reiki Federation, Nicky’s aim is to ensure her clients enjoy a relaxing treatment. Reflexology is suitable for everyone and uses pressure-point massage on the feet to promote energy flow throughout the body, easing congestion and restoring natural balance. Reiki is a form of energy healing used for relaxation and stress reduction that promotes natural healing and emotional wellbeing. Please visit: www.flowreflexology.co.uk call: 07770 695679 or email: flowreflexologyuk@gmail.com.

BREAThwORk

ann-Marie James

Ann-Marie is a BACP Accredited Psychotherapist with over 15 years’ experience & a certified breathwork coach. She offers specialist coaching in stress resilience, sometimes combined with psychotherapy. She regularly works with individuals struggling with anxiety, chronic stress, or those who want to optimise their wellbeing by understanding their mind-body system better. She uses breathwork, movement, and nutrition to help clients create calm & clarity through their physiology. Ann-Marie will be offering regular yoga nidra classes for deep relaxation starting in Spring 2023.

For more information visit www.evolve.me.uk or contact by email at: amj@evolve.me.uk or call: 07940 703132.

ABOUT US

At Orchard Life, our practitioners have come together to offer our clients a range of therapies to suit their individual needs. Our aim is to empower every one of our clients to make treatment choices and to guide and support them in their unique plan. Practitioners and teachers working together to advise, within our range of expertise, on health advice. We take time to listen to you.

At the village fete there was a ‘Guess How Many Sweets are in the Jar’ Competition.

Jenny and her four friends entered. Here are their guesses:

Jenny 300

Nisha 290

Jamal 250

Tyrone 260

Hattie 280

Two of the guesses were ten sweets away from the number, one guess was 40 away and the other was wrong by 30. So how many sweets were in the jar and who

Which of the boxed tiles should go in the blank grid space to complete the

What's orange and sounds like a parrot? (A carrot!)

What happened when a red ship crashed into a blue ship? (The crew was marooned!)

Why did the tomato turn red? (Because it saw the salad dressing!)

the bottom tile should have four blue dots. The blue dots wiuld be invisible on the blue tile so the plain blue tile is the correct answer!

group of four white dots and a single white dot so

top to bottom contains a group of four blue dots, a

contains a yellow, blue and red tile, so the tile should be blue. Each line across and also each line

Each line across and each line from top to bottom

Trial by Tile Solution

There were 290 sweets in the jar so Nisha guessed exactly.

How Many Sweets?

Steve Cole stevendcole.123@gmail.com

Tel: 07565 594356

He's based in Thatcham and covers Thatcham and all the surrounding areas. He hangs doors, lays wood flooring, makes and fits wooden windows and bespoke radiator covers.

INFACT MOST THINGS!

His particular niche is bespoke fitted wardrobes/cupboards/understair storage. As most of his work is word of mouth and recommendations from satisfied clients, so references, if requested, can easily be supplied.

mIND m atters

Decisions, Decisions

I am often baffled by just how many choices we are all faced with every day.

It might feel there are some situations where there are no choices. The most obvious to me is a young child who has to go to school, eat their dinner, suffer the abuse etc. It is hard to imagine the last one there and what choice does that little, vulnerable human being have. But, we always have a choice, even if it is to make no conscious choice at all; that is still an unconscious choice. In the face of adversary, we choose how we respond – Have you heard the expression “flight, fight, freeze, flop, fawn”? It is the way in which our unconscious mind manages extreme distress. Somewhere a part of our mind makes a decision for us. It might be the lesser of two (or 5) evils and it is often not a voluntary or conscious decision we are making, but the one deep in our psyche which we believe will keep us safer in that moment.

In other less traumatic environments, we can still struggle to recognise we have choices. Or we are fearful of the choices we make; will it be the “right or wrong” decision? We have to remember that whatever choice we make there will be consequence – not “right” or “wrong” but different outcomes, a chain of events will be set in motion that will influence ourself and others. Think of it terms of a Satnav. It offers us two or three alternative routes. If, at the next junction, we choose to turn left, we will get to our destination in 23 minutes, if we turn right, it will take as 5 minutes longer. We will still get there - and we might get to enjoy a lovely view on the country lanes of this route. But there will be consequences – we might miss our train, or the start of the meeting (for example). So we need to accept responsibility for the route we took. If we miss our train, and there someone at our destination awaiting our arrival, we are responsible for their frustration. If we are late for the meeting, will everyone wait for us to start which potentially has a knock-on effect for their whole day? Or perhaps we miss a vital bit of information at the very beginning of the meeting, which means we cannot

contribute appropriately to the meeting and this frustrates the rest of the group, and ourselves.

Then there are multiple choices. The fear of ‘getting it wrong’ can prevent us from making a decision; we procrastinate in the hope someone will make it for us - then we can blame them for the consequences and responsibility. For example; someone asks if I want an ice-cream, I say “you choose”. Then I’m disappointed I didn’t get the ice-cream I wanted**. Somehow, I hoped the person buying knew what I wanted. I still made a choice though; I chose to let someone else make it!

How do we know how the other options would have turned out? What if we had chosen ‘fight’ rather than ‘flight’? When we took the long way round and missed the first train, did we meet someone on the later train (that ‘Sliding Doors’ moment) who changed our life? Did the different ice-cream turn out to be more delicious than our ‘usual’?

We can gain some element of control in making a decision for ourselves. Settle in the choice you made; you cannot change a past choice, you can only use the knowledge of the outcome of that choice to influence your next choice.

** In case you were wondering mine’s a double dark chocolate and caramel one please.

By Maxine Hoskins MA, MBACP (Accred) Psychodynamic Counsellor

Across 1 Reels, spools (7)

5 Having the same measure as another (5)

8 Portable bed used when camping (8,3)

9 Soft creamy sweet (5)

10 Fast train that makes a limited number of stops (7)

12 Row of unravelled stitches in a stocking (6)

14 Unborn vertebrate in the later stages of development (6)

17

Author of major works on the history of the Roman Empire (circa 56–120 AD) (7)

18 To hinder or preclude, in law (5)

20 Serving to instruct or enlighten (11)

22 Product derived from cane or beet (5)

23 Outstanding musician (7)

Solution

Down

1 Self-consciously timid (7)

2 Food often named the ‘staff of life’ (5)

3 Piece of equipment or tool (9)

4 Poem of fourteen 10- or 11-syllable lines (6)

5 Outward flow of the tide (3)

6 Soothing ointment (7)

7 Golf course by the sea (5)

11 Leisurely walk by the sea (9)

13 Tying up at a wharf (7)

15 Most important person in an organisation (7)

16 Place of religious retreat for Hindus (6)

17 Small, savoury Spanish snacks (5)

19 Oliver ___, Dickens character (5)

Across: 1 Bobbins, 5 Equal, 8 Sleeping bag, 9 Fudge, 10 Express, 12 Ladder, 14 Foetus, 17 Tacitus, 18 Estop, 20 Informative, 22 Sugar, 23 Maestro.

Down: 1 Bashful, 2 Bread, 3 Implement, 4 Sonnet, 5 Ebb, 6 Unguent, 7 Links, 11 Promenade, 13 Docking, 15 Supremo, 16 Ashram, 17 Tapas, 19 Twist, 21 Fir.

Press Joy Into The World

I have been thinking about manifestos recently, not so much because of the current political situation, but rather because a young artist I know produced a rather different kind of manifesto. her purpose was to set out what she was trying to achieve in her art and in particular in her work of illustration.

One phrase that jumped out at me from Naomi’s manifesto was “press joy into the world”. What a wonderful thing to want to do – but why did it take an artist to show me that what the world might most need at the moment is an influx of joy? It seems so obvious when I say it. But artists have a special training in noticing things – even obvious things – that the rest of us can easily miss: showing us what was there all along and making it meaningful.

And then I look at the political world around me, and the financial world, and tax cuts and government borrowing and public sector (key worker) pay restraint and interest rate rises and the “cost of living crisis” and the leadership contest in the Conservative Party. And I wonder whether any of them have ever though about what it would take to press joy into the world – that a better world would be a more joyful place? I wonder whether too many of us have almost given up on being joyful, or even thinking about joy. And yet if life is to be worth living, surely joy has to be a part of it.

And where does joy come from? Naomi can use her skill as an artist, and there is certainly a great deal of joy in her work. Can we bring joy into the world, without being artists? Well I think we all have that ability, though some of us lack practice. On the whole joy comes from outside ourselves –the joy of nature, or joy brought to us by a friend or neighbour – we can’t make joy so very easily for ourselves. So if we are making joy, it will be for other people – it is something we share. Perhaps it is important at the moment to offer joyful possibilities to people living on their own.

One of the things I like most is that Naomi does not say “force” joy into the world. There is no sense of telling people they must be joyful. “Press” joy into the world for me means making it difficult to avoid, but not forcing it on anyone. If we are not such good artists, what might we be able to do?

Here are some of Naomi’s suggestions:

• Decorate the space for autumn

• Give away something of yours that someone would like

• Put together a picnic for somebody

• Make someone something crafty

• Give the gift of your presence, enjoying traditions with others

• Plan a walk with someone

And you may well have your own ideas – it doesn’t have to be so difficult, after all.

Come Christmas, one of my favourite carols is “Joy to the world …”. How did I ever make it all so difficult, and forget it the rest of the year? Be inspired, as I have been, to press a little joy into the world before Christmas comes round again.

Revd Mark Bennet, St Mary’s, Thatcham

Sweet Recipe

Lemon Pot Puddings

These delicious individual hot lemon puddings are the perfect sweet treat after a hearty winter supper or Sunday lunch.

Ingredients:

• 100g unsalted butter, softened, plus extra for greasing

• 175g golden caster sugar

• Zest and juice of 2 large lemons (you will need about 120ml lemon juice)

• 4 medium eggs, separated

• 75g plain flour

• 130ml milk

• 2 tbsp flaked almonds

• Icing sugar, for dusting

Makes 6 Ready in 40 mins

1. Preheat the oven to 180C/fan 160C/gas mark 4. Grease six 175ml ovenproof ramekin dishes with butter

2. Beat the butter and sugar together in a large bowl until pale and creamy. Beat in the lemon zest then beat in the egg yolks, one at a time. Sift over half the plain flour and fold in, then fold in the lemon juice and milk. Sift over the rest of the flour and fold in. Gradually fold the egg whites into the mixture.

3. Divide the mixture evenly between the prepared ramekin dishes and sprinkle over the flaked almonds. Place the dishes in a large roasting tin and pour in enough hot water to come halfway up the sides of the dishes. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden on top. Serve immediately, dusted with icing sugar.

TIP

These puddings will form a lovely layer of thick lemon custard under the sponge topping so take care not to overcook them. They will still have a slight wobble in the centre.

angela money Bem - our NeWBUrY Neighbourhood Watch Co-ordinator

…Gives us all some further tips on how we can best keep Safe

Criminals are still targeting parents via WhatsApp or text by pretending to be a child in need of financial help. Data from Action Fraud reveals victims lost nearly £50,000 between August and October last year; some victims are out of pocket by up to £3,000 each, says the fraud reporting body.

There are a number of Facebook Marketplace scams circulating at the moment and I have heard of several in West Berkshire with some similar to the article in the below link:

Facebook Marketplace ‘thief snatches £1,000 phone out of seller’s hand’ in Stafford (msn. com) (To read this article just copy and paste this link into your browser)

Also other Facebook Marketplace scams such as a buyer using a fake UPS account to purchase items and then proceeded to send fake UPS email to pay insurance for collection. Email address was: upsexpressservice880@gmail.com

www.whocallsme.com is a good place to check phone numbers of marketing calls, unwanted SMS messages, or if it is a number you do not recognise.

Burglars can use the letterbox or cat/dog flaps to “fish” through to take house or car keys or even to operate the handle to open the door from the inside. Some simple security measures can reduce your risk of being a victim.

At night or when out in the daytime always deadlock the front door. If you can open it from the inside just by turning the handle, so can a burglar from the outside via the letterbox.

Have the front door key readily available in case of emergency but not within at least 6 ft of the front door where an implement can be put through the letterbox to reach it.

Keep handbags, purses, mobile phones, all keys (including car keys) out of sight of the letterbox and again not within easy reach of it. It is a good idea to take keys to your bedroom at night and in an emergency you have quick access to them.

Lock doors when out in the garden, even if only putting washing on the line or if you have gone upstairs.

When you go out or on holiday, it is always a good idea leaving a radio on, which can be put on a timer especially if you are going to be away.

If you do not currently have a Neighbourhood Watch scheme in your road, I would really appreciate your help by setting one up. Please contact me if you would like more information about becoming a Coordinator.

If you would like me to send you details of how to set up a scheme, please phone me, Angela Money, the local Neighbourhood Watch Area Coordinator, on 01635 40866 or forward your email address to ajmy5m7@gmail.com and I will make contact with you. All we ask is for you to be the receiver of the Police/NHW/Action Fraud Alerts and then to forward them on to your neighbours. Neighbourhood Watch signs, stickers and leaflets are free. Additionally, all neighbours receive various local discounts. To make the community a safer place to live in and help combat crime, it is important for more schemes to be set up.

Visit: www.thatchamconnections.co.uk

Proposed term dates for 2023/24

These term dates provide a guide. Sometimes a school may adjust the dates slightly due to specific circumstances, and we recommend that you check with the school if a specific date is key to your plans, e.g. before making a holiday booking.

Do you love the idea of outdoor entertaining? Do you want to invest in the value of your home?

Or you’d like to grow your own vegetables? Or maybe you’d like a bit of everything?

Since 2004 we’ve been creating dream gardens as individual and unique as the people we create them for.

Carefully designed, built and planted to make dreams a reality and bring joy for years to come.

Share your dream and we’ll make it a reality

01235 835664

office@wildtowonderful.co.uk

www.wildtowonderful.co.uk