Delivered free to 7300 Homes and Businesses in :
Issue 31
June / July / August 2011
Ashmore Green • Cold Ash • Curridge • Hermitage Midgham • Thatcham • Woolhampton • Yattendon
• Digital Aerial Upgrades • Digital Radio and FM Aerials • Tuning, Re-alignment and Setup • Plasma, LCD and Home Entertainment Sales and Installation • Sky Authorised Agent • Freesat • Domestic and Commercial • Storm Damage and Insurance Work • Extra TV, Satellite and Telephone Points • Communal Systems (SMATV & IRS) • European & Motorised Systems • OAP Discounts
Collection & delivery available
For a friendly and professional service please call Freephone
0800 0434033 or tel: 01635 224214
or email: info@onedegreewest.tv
www.onedegreewest.tv
Dr. Jeeves finds solutions to all dental problems at the Newbury Marketplace Dental Lounge
Dr Jeevana Subasinghe (Dr. Jeeves) is an established dentist in Newbury. He has 20 years of experience and holds full professional registrations to practice Dental Surgery in both Finland and in the U.K. He brings to Newbury extremely valuable knowledge from working relationships which he has with prominent clinicians and clinics in Finland and Switzerland – where the very latest and state of the art technology is used. Under one roof all disciplines of Dentistry are performed and all solutions and options offered - ‘All treatments, one responsibility’. Apart from routine dental care and hygiene, the following are also included: cosmetic dentistry, implantology, orthodontics, prosthodontics (dentures), root canal therapy, oral surgery, treatment of advanced gum infections, guided tissue regeneration, bone grafting, teeth whitening and non surgical wrinkle softening with Botulinum toxin-A.
As you would expect, Newbury Marketplace Dental Lounge is one of the most modern surgeries in the country - impeccably clean, functional and of course equipped with the most up-to-date diagnostic tools. It is BUPA accredited and all work is guaranteed. Dr. Jeeves firmly believes in allocating his patients very generous time intervals. He knows the importance of getting to know his patients and how vital it is to gain their confidence - then together they can achieve outstanding results. He has much experience in treating nervous children and adults alike, also patients with special care needs.
He runs a very flexible approach to the timing of appointments - evening and weekend appointments can easily be arranged.
Contents
WELCOME T: 0118 9886070 E: ursula@ thatchamconnecions.co.uk W: thatchamconnections.co.uk A: Stable 5, Gravelly Bridge Farm house Grazeley, Reading, RG7 1LG Editor: Ursula Aitken
Printer: Warwick Printing Co Ltd
Dear Readers Welcome to issue 31 - which marks our 6th birthday ! I would like to take this opportunity to thank the many advertisers who have supported this publication. And on pages 48/49 you will see some of those advertisers who have supported Thatcham Connections for five years or more. As always, though, we know that it is entirely a combination of you the reader, together with the advertiser, who make this directory possible. Thank you.
Sudoku
6
Recipe
10
Codeword
27
Father’s Day
30
What’s on in the Community 46/47 Garden Feature
54
Childrens’ Challenge
62
Book Review
64
Answers
66
Index
68
Handy Numbers
69
Since last writing to you before Easter it feels as if we have had a string of long breaks. It has been a special time, in my opinion. Both Easter and the Royal Wedding seem to have set the tone for a period of renewed hope and a fresh start. It is very welcome!
The front cover photograph
I must apologise for printing an inaccurate recipe in the last issue - suggesting that you would need more ingredients than necessary. A thoughtful reader took the time and trouble to let me know about the error and has assured me he will continue to value the recipe - and I do hope you will too. Do please remember to let me know if you have any community information or local stories which you would like to be included. I am always very pleased to hear from local organisations and clubs. Just give me a ring or drop me an email. Also, if you are interested in advertising your business, please do contact me to find out about our competitive rates. Like many of the business who advertise in this magazine, I am also a small independent business and can fully appreciate how much your own business will mean to you. I can assure you that I will help you as much as I can. Best wishes for a very happy Summer period ahead.
Has kindly been supplied by Ray Buckland, a member of the Thatcham Photographic Club www.thatchamphotoclub.com
DISCLAIMER Whilsteverycarehas been taken to ensure that data in this publication is accurate, neither the publisher nor it’s editorial contributors can accept any liability to any party for loss or damage caused by errors or omis-
P.S A little update: starting at the head of the household, DH (darling husband) has been planning a holiday in Italy for us both. We are going for ten days in the summer and will visit Tuscany and Umbria where we have two sets of friends. I can’t wait! Meanwhile I am trying to learn a few phrases in Italian. DD is enjoying life to the full - it is difficult to catch her in - this school year has been one she will remember and I know she is going to be very sorry to say goodbye to her year 6s in a few weeks time. DS has started a new Army job - this time it is a big change - an office job in the Ministry of Defence. - it is a temporary appointment but at least we can breath for a short while knowing he is not off abroad imminently.
sions resulting from negligence, accident or any other case. Thatcham Connections does not officially endorse any advertising material included within this publication. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in any retrieval systems or transmitted in any form, without prior permission of the publisher.
NEXT ISSUE - COVERING September and October - Copy deadline 12th August. Please book space by 29 July latest.
Ryan, a local Thatcham resident, loves his job and this is why: Ed “I meet new people every day which I greatly enjoy”. “I get much satisfaction from the challenge - whether it be putting in a socket or a whole re-wire”. “I also get satisfaction from the necessary attention to detail “. “I am proud of my reputation”. “local references can be supplied and, of course, quotations are free”.
Ryan Smart
“I have ten years experience and a strong will to succeed”.
Part P Compliant - £5 million public liability and full employers liability. One year guarantee on all materials . Five year guarantee on workmanship workmanship.
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Shop and office installations Domestic and Commercial contracts Full or part rewires New Builds (adhering to code 3 regulation) Conversions Tests and Inspections Extra TV and Telephone points Renovation work Garden and Security lighting Conservatories Extensions Kitchens Maintenance PAT testing Intruder alarms Door entry systems Data Cabling Containment
rjselectrical@btinternet.com
Please men on Thatcham Connec ons when responding to adver sements.
5
K.P. Voller (Newbury Memorials) Granite & Marble Specialists New Memorials Cremation Plaques Renovations Additional Inscriptions 30 years experience
Tel/Fax 01635 869877 - Mobile 07881 992481 E-mail kpvoller@btinternet.com (All memorials VAT free)
Personal Professional Service Guaranteed
EASY
SUDOKUS
HARD
Each 3x3 box, as well as each row and column must contain the Numbers 1 - 9 Answers on page 66.
6
Please men on Thatcham Connec ons when responding to adver sements...
Please men on Thatcham Connec ons when responding to adver sements.
7
8
Please men on Thatcham Connec ons when responding to adver sements...
Gardner Leader Business Owners - and the importance of their Wills way you are ensuring that your husband is not disadvantaged and that your estate passes to your children in the long-term. Lillian That sounds a good plan. What if I die after my husband? Lucy Your main concern is to consider how to ensure the shares in your business to pass to your daughter whilst also ensuring your sons are treated equally. If you leave your estate to your three children equally then it may be necessary for the business to be sold in order to fund each child’s inheritance. To protect against this you could take out life insurance to provide a payment to your daughter on your death to enable her to buy the shares that pass to your sons. Lillian In this extract from a meeting with her client, Lillian, Lucy Samara solicitor at Gardner Leader explains why a will is particularly important for business owners. Lillian Hi Lucy, I run a Marketing business with my husband and we hold all the shares equally. I have three adult children from my first marriage (one daughter and two sons) but only my daughter has any interest in the business. I want to leave my estate to my husband but, if he dies before me, I would like it to pass to my children equally whilst ensuring that the business passes to my daughter. Lucy The first thing you need to consider is whether it is actually appropriate to leave your entire estate to your husband? If you die before him then your assets will pass to him and subsequently be distributed in accordance with his will on his death. To protect against this you should consider creating a “life interest trust” in your will to provide for your assets to pass to trustees to hold for your husband for his lifetime and then to your children on his death. This
That sounds like a great idea – what other issues I should consider? Lucy You should always consider the effect inheritance tax could have on your estate. The value of your shares should not be liable to inheritance tax as they should qualify for “business property relief”. If your husband survives you then he will benefit from the “spouse exemption” for inheritance tax. You also have a very valuable “transferable nil rate band” following the death of your first husband. Your estate therefore effectively has two nil rate bands for inheritance tax and so you can leave up to £650,000 tax-free under the current tax rules. We will need to ensure that the benefit of this additional tax exemption is protected and we could discuss this at our next meeting.
For further information please call Lucy Samara at Gardner Leader on 01635 508 154, or visit www.gardner-leader.co.uk.
Please men on Thatcham Connec ons when responding to adver sements.
9
RECIPE: Roast Stuffed Lamb Fillet with Honeyed Shallots Perfect for a summer Sunday lunch this lamb roast has a delicious stuffing made with fresh mint, dried apricots and pine nuts. Simply serve with boiled and buttered new potatoes, steamed green beans and a spoonful of tangy redcurrant sauce. 25 g (1oz) butter 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 garlic clove, crushed 75 g (3oz) fresh white breadcrumbs 25 g (1oz) pine nuts Serves 4 - Ready in 1 hour 30 minutes
8 no-need-to-soak dried apricots, chopped 2 tbsp. beaten egg
1. Preheat the oven to 190C/375F/Gas Mark 5. Heat the butter in a frying pan and gently fry the onion for 10 minutes until very soft, adding the garlic after 5 minutes. Remove from the heat and stir in the breadcrumbs, pine nuts and apricots. Leave to cool. Stir the egg and mint into the cooled mixture and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
2 tbsp. fresh chopped mint
2. Place the lamb fillets on a chopping board and, using a sharp knife, make a deep cut along the length of each fillet (taking care not to cut all the way through). Open each fillet out and flatten slightly with a meat mallet or rolling pin.
2 tbsp. light olive oil
Salt and freshly ground black pepper 2 large lamb fillets 8 shallots, halved 1 ½ tbsp. honey, warmed
3. Spoon the stuffing down the centre of one fillet then place the second fillet on top to enclose the stuffing. Tie together at intervals with fine string. Heat half the oil in a large frying pan and quickly fry the stuffed lamb over a high heat until just browned all over. Place in a shallow roasting tin.
4. Cook the shallots for 1 minute in a pan of lightly salted boiling water. Drain well then place in the roasting tin around the lamb. Pour the remaining oil over the shallots. 5. Roast the lamb and shallots for 25 minutes. Remove from the oven and drizzle the warmed honey over the shallots. Roast for a further 10-15 minutes until the lamb is cooked to your liking. Cover the lamb and leave to rest in a warm place for 20 minutes before carving.
10
Please men on Thatcham Connec ons when responding to adver sements...
Welcome to The Swan Station Road, Thatcham. RG19 4QL
Tel: 01635 862084 swan.thatcham@marstons.co.uk
“ Come and enjoy our Patio and Garden this Summer - particularly when the sun is shining - this is the place to be! ” Food served daily from 12noon.
2 meals for £10 Mon-Sat on selected dishes.
Wide range of wines and real ales in stock.
Accommodation available at £62.95 per room including breakfast.
Book on line at: www.marstonsinns.co.uk
A local charity for local people providing support, care and information For more information please contact :
01635 31542
Proprietors:
Chris Harman & Glynis Snow
AA 4 Star Inn
En-suite Accommodation
AA Dinner Award
Camra Good Beer Guide 3rd Year Running Fine Dining • Real Ales • Bar Food Meals Served Every Evening and Lunch-times Wed-Sun Conferences & Functions
The Six Bells The Green, Beenham, Reading RG7 5NX Tel: 0118 9713368 Email: info@thesixbells.co.uk www.thesixbells.co.uk
12
Please men on Thatcham Connec ons when responding to adver sements...
CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING by Flair Most carpets dry in 1 -2 hours
• Protection service • Professional stain removal • No obligation quotations All work fully insured and guaranteed.
01635 524110 Email: lynch.paul2@sky.com
www.chemdryclean.co.uk/flair
Please men on Thatcham Connec ons when responding to adver sements.
13
Every Monday At Bradfield Village Hall
Pilates 6.30pm – 7.15pm Zumba 7.30pm – 8.25pm
Every Wednesday At Woolhampton Village Hall
Pilates 6.00pm – 6.45pm Zumba 7.00pm – 7.55pm Please call Lorraine for further information
On 07711 182137 lorrainevickers@hotmail.co.uk 14
Please men on Thatcham Connec ons when responding to adver sements...
A range of dynamic and exciting Yoga classes are now available in several locations in the Newbury and Oxford area. (Please refer to website) Emma Robinson is an experienced and internationally trained teacher, she has studied extensively in Australia, U.S.A, U.K, India and Thailand. Emma is a passionate advocate of the many benefits that Yoga offers in relieving stress, increasing strength, improving flexibility and balance and aiding weight loss and body-tone. Three differing classes are available, all of mixed ability, to all ages, men and women offering uniquely differing perspectives.
Yogalates - An innovative class fusing the best elements of core-strengthening Pilates and the ancient art of Yoga. A gentle class which emphasises correct posture and alignment to alleviate common problems such as low back pain. Yogalates is highly recommended to those who wish to build strength and flexibility in a relaxed environment and is a great form of post-natal exercise. Akhanda Hatha Yoga Blend - A dynamic, traditional class designed to take practitioners further into body and mind exploration. Flow with grace, find your balance and be prepared to sweat! New! Aerial Yoga -Defy gravity whilst experiencing yoga postures and exercises suspended in the air! A specially designed yoga-swing allows the body support for deeper stretches and spinal decompression along with a feeling of lightness and a smile on your face. Emma is a Registered 500 hour Yoga teacher through the Yoga Alliance and a member of the Australian Yogalates Association. For further information and a current timetable please visit my website or phone me.
www.emjyoga.com
07767 710360 Please men on Thatcham Connec ons when responding to adver sements.
15
Calling... all Mums to be … and Mums who have small children If you are either a mum to be or a mum with small children, it may be that you could do with some support - particularly at certain stages. Fears and anxieties may arise in pregnancy - most of these fears have been experienced by others before - it is quite natural and often a consultation or even a phone call can allay such fears. Motherhood can be an exciting and wonderful time but equally it can be very hard work; perplexing; frustrating and extremely exhausting! Particularly if you are a first time mum, it may be that you could do with a hand and guidance on how to make your baby prosper more fully. Many mums often feel ‘judged’ and sometimes even ‘inadequate’. Working mums can feel they are excessively battling to cope with day-to-day life. They want to get it right but need some help.
Feeding, sleeping patterns, weaning, solid foods, potty training, tantrums, are all very important aspects of those first few years and form a ‘Big area of life.’ And whilst they do only last for a relatively short period, it can be difficult at the time to see the end of the tunnel. Or, if you already have a family, perhaps the siblings are causing concern with various problems. Knowing other mums in the area often helps - Why not let me introduce you to them? I provide a personal, flexible, high quality service to suit your particular needs. You may require a child assessment or one or two visits - or a visit once or twice weekly, or indeed just a phone call. Most importantly, I know how valuable it is to talk to an expert, who is trained to listen well and who can offer a balanced view.
As a mother of three children and with over 20 years experience as a NHS health visitor, there is very little about babies and toddlers which I have not had experience with before!
Appointments can be arranged for early evenings and on Saturdays, if required. Working privately means that I can tailor my services around your lifestyle, at your convenience. Please don’t hesitate to contact me. I live only down the road in Cold Ash!
Helen Long RHV, RN
Private Health Visitor
Phone: 07795436046 E-mail:helenlong@your-healthvisitor.com www.your-healthvisitor.com Please see page 23. 16
Please men on Thatcham Connec ons when responding to adver sements...
Yoga for Young Children with Tatty Bumpkin Local mum, Judith Saunders is bringing Tatty Bumpkin Bumpkin, the award-winning series of fun, educational, yoga-inspired children’s classes, to families and nurseries in Thatcham, Newbury and surrounding areas. Each week in class, we imagine waking up on Wobble Farm with Tatty Bumpkin Bumpkin, the bendy, giggly, clever and strong doll. We warm up with a dance and song, then we have breakfast (the children don’t realise that we’re performing stretches). After running, cycling, or skipping down to the magical Giggle Tree, all our adventures begin. We go on a different adventure each week meeting lots of animals and people. We perform adapted yoga poses for these animals and enjoy songs and story telling on the way. We always finish with a calm relaxation to beautiful music. Based on the principle that movement is the basis for learning, the acclaimed Tatty Bumpkin classes are a fun and refreshing way to open the door to a child’s imagination. Children learn in a variety of ways and the multi-sensory classes reflect this through storytelling, music and yoga-inspired poses to engage and inspire children across all learning styles. They make learning fun and help parents and their children bond through play. Classes are aimed at young children from 6 weeks to 6 years and have been developed by education specialists, Yoga teachers, Paediatric Physiotherapists and musicians. For information about the times and locations of classes, please contact Judith on 0845 6808461 or e-mail classes@newburyandover.tattybumpkin.com. See also her advert on page 21.
Please men on Thatcham Connec ons when responding to adver sements.
17
Adults - £7.95 Children & OAPs - £6.95 Children under 2 years - FREE Family Tickets (2 Adults and 2 Children) - £26.50 Disabled - £5.25 Carer accompanying disabled visitor - £5.25
18
Please men on Thatcham Connec ons when responding to adver sements...
Why not become a HOST FAMILY for two weeks or more?
Newbury Hall Host Families come in all shapes and sizes! Nearly 50% of our host families are retired couples or single ladies! Being a host family for Newbury Hall is a wonderful way to meet people from other countries and cultures. Our students come from France, Spain, Germany, Italy, Russia and even further afield, eager for the opportunity to learn English and experience our culture. Newbury Hall provides a complete daytime programme of lessons and activities as well as a busy social and excursion programme. For both our students and our families this stay is an enriching and warm memory which in many cases will stay with them for the whole of their lives. For the student this part of their stay becomes the focus of many happy associations surrounding the learning of English. Newbury Hall is a highly professional teaching organisation, and we have a full-time team of support workers to deal with arrivals and departures, and any difficulties that may arise. A typical stay is two weeks, although some students stay for longer, and you can choose the dates you would like to accept students. In return for your commitment we offer good rates of pay, and accounts are settled weekly. For full details please call Suzanne Platt on 07920 808995. Newbury Hall, Enborne Road, Newbury RG14 6AD 01635 36879
Please men on Thatcham Connec ons when responding to adver sements.
19
Nightingale’s Swim School
Small, friendly classes for all ages & abilities. Sunday morning lessons at Downe House School, Cold Ash, Thatcham
Spaces Available! Telephone 01264 771043 or email info@nightingales info@nightingales--swim swim--school.co.uk www.nightingales swim--school.co.uk www.nightingales--swim
20
Please men on Thatcham Connec ons when responding to adver sements...
There is so much to do from biking in the woods, feeding lambs, cooking, circus workshops, henna tattoos, trampolining, games and races or just hanging out with
Jubilee Jets is open every school holiday from 8.00-18.00 for children aged 4 ½ to 11 years For further information please contact: Jubilee Day Nursery on :
Set in fantastic countryside location
0118 9701 600
www.jubiledaynursery.co.uk Paddock View, Rectory Road, Padworth Common, Berkshire RG7 4JD
Please men on Thatcham Connec ons when responding to adver sements.
21
Jubilee Day Nursery celebrates with a ‘Royal’ Garden Party
On Thursday the 28th of April, Jubilee Day Nursery held a ‘Royal’ Garden Party to celebrate the marriage of Prince William to his Princess Catherine. The children invited their Grandparents to be the special guests. Leading up to the party the children had been learning about the Royal family through stories, role play games and art & crafts. The children helped with the preparations by making bunting, flags, crowns, hats and decorations for the celebration wedding cake. The ‘Royal’ Garden Party began with a procession from the Pre-school children - who had dressed up in their finest fashions for the occasion - with all the smaller children taking part in games and singing songs to the Grandparents. We had over 125 Grandparents and Parents join us at our Garden Party. The weather was gorgeous. We were able to take advantage of our lovely garden area and spend the afternoon outside, enjoying the sunshine and delicious cake specially made for the occasion. At Jubilee Day Nursery we celebrate many different special occasions. We believe this helps children learn more about the world around them and understand other cultures. If you would like to know more about Jubilee Day Nursery or would like your child to be part of this amazing learning adventure then please do not hesitate in contacting us on
0118 9701600 or Jubilee Day Nursery Paddock View, Rectory Road, Padworth Common, Reading, Berkshire RG7 4JD email: info@jubileedaynursery.co.uk website: www.jubileedaynursery.co.uk 22
Please men on Thatcham Connec ons when responding to adver sements...
“If you want to learn from the professionals, then this is the place to be!”
Tracey
Mobile Hairdressing 07770 823283
Read Dance & Theatre Schools
I offer quality, personal, affordable hairdressing in the comfort of your own home at a time to suit you. I can travel to you in Thatcham and the surrounding villages. Please call if you would like to make an appointment. Tel: 07770 823283 Email: traceyblick@virginmedia.com
Mini Theatre School (ages 5-7) Saturday Theatre School (ages 8-16) Children’s Street Dance Classes Adults’ Street, Tap and Ballet Classes Private Singing Lessons Trinity Guildhall Acting Grades Holiday Courses throughout the year!
Our teachers bring to us experience from London’s West End, along with years of teaching experience, qualifications and CRB checks. For your free trial session, call us or visit us on line 08451 307408 www.readtheatreschools.co.uk
Discounts available for double and group adult bookings.
Private Health Visitor
HELEN LONG
RHV RN
I provide a personal health visiting service to you and your family in the comfort of your own home and at a time to suit you.
Giving both of you the best possible start
Giving advice and support on a whole range of issues, including: • Infant feeding • Weaning • Sleep • Behaviour • Potty Training • Developmental reviews
For further information please contact me:
Email: helenlong@your-healthvisitor.com Tel: 07795 436046
www.your-healthvisitor.com
Please men on Thatcham Connec ons when responding to adver sements.
23
Face First Clinic ANNOUNCING
NEW TREATMENTS AVAILABLE Intense Pulsed Light Therapy • Permanent Hair Reduction • Acne Treatment • Treatment of Sun Damage/Age Spots • Small Vascular Lesions (such as Thread Veins) • Facial Collagen Stimulation SPECIAL INTRODUCTORY OFFER FOR THATCHAM CONNECTIONS READERS
Buy any course of treatments and receive two FREE (for example, a course of four—you will only pay for TWO)
For further information call Karen
on
07917 890510 or email karen@facefirstclinic.com For more information please visit our website:
www.facefirstclinic.com 24
Please men on Thatcham Connec ons when responding to adver sements...
Bernies Hair & Beauty Barn
Kennet Holme Farm Buildings, Bath Road, Midgham RG7 5UX Telephone: 01189 713 562
Kim Jones
With 8 years beauty experience, Kim delivers a high quality service in all of her treatments. This is supported by extensive product knowledge including Dermalogica, Bio sculpture, Jessica manicures and pedicures, Fake bake tanning, Crystal clear microdermabrasion and Hot stone massage. Free File and polish when you book a Fullbody Spray tan.
07717 507839
email: revive_beauty@yahoo.co.uk
Helena Dowling Helena specialises in colouring, cut & blow drys and hair up for a unisex clientele. Helena also delivers a high quality result in wedding hair. 25% off cut and blow dry price when booking in for any type of colour, with this advert.
Mobile - 07788639832 , email - helenadowling007_@hotmail.com
Karen Hackwood RGN
Face First Clinic now at Bernies “Enhance the beautiful you” with non-invasive treatments such as: Wrinkle Relaxing Injections (Botox), Dermal Fillers, Chemical Peels, Microdermabrasion - and skin needling. Call Karen on 07917 890510 to book your FREE consultation www.facefirstclinic.com for more information
When you mention this advertisement receive 10% off your first treatment!
Janie Perry
Relax to Revive (please see opposite page) “Choosing the natural path to health” with naturopathy, nutritional therapy, reflexology and yoga. These can improve well-being or aid current health issues; including digestive issues, arthritis, insomnia, ME/Fibromyalgia and many more. Visit www.relaxtorevive.co.uk for further information. Call Janie on 01189 834470 and receive 20% off your first appointment. Please men on Thatcham Connec ons when responding to adver sements.
25
MEMORIALS IN STONE New Memorials Supplied and Installed. Existing Memorials Renovated and Cleaned. Headstones Tablets Vases Pet Memorials House Signs
Personal Service and Home Visits Enquiries: 0118 9815591 0776 5232911 Angie’s Nails and Beauty www.angiesnails.co.uk
Bio Sculpture Gel Overlays Jessica Prescriptive Nail Care Waxing Fake Bake Spray Tanning Pamper Parties & Bridal Packages Jane Iredale Mineral Makeup Ear Piercing Susan Molyneux Facials Š Brian Chase. Image from BigStockPhoto.com
Podiatry/Chiropody
Thatcham on Thursdays Chapel Row Surgery on Fridays
Professional treatments for a variety of foot problems including: Corns/hard skin Ingrown toenails Diabetic feet Flat feet Thickened toenails Cracked heels Emma Barrow, Podiatrist BSc (hons) MChS HPC registered (no home visits)
Eyelash & Eyebrow Tinting
Indulge in a professional and personal experience in a relaxed friendly atmosphere in my home salon or in the comfort of your own home Thatcham, Newbury and the surrounding area.
Give Angie a call on
07811 769753
26
TREAT YOUR FEET
For more info pick up a leaflet at Chapel Row Surgery or check website www.crsurgery.co.uk (Allied practitioner)
Phone 01635 299149 Phone or text mobile 0776 5996772 Email treat_your_feet@msn.com
Please men on Thatcham Connec ons when responding to adver sements...
CAP SECURITY LOCAL LOCKSMITHS All types of domestic electrical work undertaken from a simple light fitting to a complete rewire.
Professional Family Run Business
All makes of Locks Opened/Fitted/Replaced/Repaired
To ALL Types of Doors Windows and Garages UPVc Door and Window Maintenance Specialists
Fully qualified and insured. Please call to arrange a free no obligation quote.
Call: 07766 880504 or 01635 876759
matthewoke@btinternet.com
FALKLAND BUILDERS
Over 30 years Experience
All types of Building work undertaken
Brickwork Specialist Extensions Alterations Renovations
01635 201125 & 07831 470693 e: falklandbuilders@hotmail.com
Free Security Advice & Estimates
01635 868 318
101A Park Lane, Thatcham Berkshire
GJH Plumbing
Plumbing & Oil Fired Heating > General Plumbing > Oil fired boilers > Service, Installations, > Repairs > Qualified, Fully Insured > Local, Friendly & Reliable Graham Hayes Tel: 01635 862836 Mob: 07704 145859
Please men on Thatcham Connec ons when responding to adver sements.
27
CODEWORD
24
Each letter in this puzzle is represented by a number between 1 and 26. The codes for three letters are shown. As you find the letters enter them in the box below.
12 9
16
23
16 17
9 19
11
3
24 9
18 1
23
18
17 4
18
20
12
22
16
26 15
17
14
6
1 1
6
14
6
14 16
23
21
14
17
19
6
23
16
3
T
O
19
18
18
5
18
12 24
6
11
18
5
16
16
13
5
18
13
18
18
6
20
16
18 12
4
4
22 23
16
18
6
5
2 1
11 24 1
1 11
16
23
14
11 23
20 4
7
2 1
6
16 24
13
14
25 10
4
18
17 4
P
1
3
18
21
18
6 19
16 1
6
18
8 12
16
19
Solution on page 66
28
Please men on Thatcham Connec ons when responding to adver sements...
20 % cheaper on average
than supermarkets
ACCOUNTANCY AND TAX SERVICES FOR SMALL BUSINESSES AND THE SELF-EMPLOYED Business Accounts Self Assessment Returns VAT Buy-to-Let CIS Payroll Meetings at Home/Business Fees fixed in advance
(01635) 582829
Short & long term secure storage for home or business
organic vegboxes or choose your own from the full range including meat, milk, eggs, juice and wine free delivery 01803 762059 www.riverford.co.uk
Ri v
e r f ord
Upp er Nor t on Far m
Open 7 days a week 8am – 8pm Easy access, all on one level Security alarms, CCTV cameras and 24 hr surveillance
Church Farm, Baughurst, Tadley, Hants RG26 5JY t: 0118 982 0788 m: 0776 025 5063 e: tadley@barn-store.co.uk
www.barn-store.co.uk
Please men on Thatcham Connec ons when responding to adver sements.
29
FEATURE: Father’s Day - By Ted Bruning There is a very good reason why my family should buy me lots of presents this Father’s Day, which falls on 19 June. They, and all other families for that ma er, should be queuing up at the na on’s department stores to spend, spend, spend on bo les of scotch, pipes, slippers, motoring sundries and all similar items beloved of dads in order to save the na on.
A Special Father’s Day
At this point I can quite clearly hear the cynics saying that’s all that Father’s Day is about – envious dads trying to even the score with mums, who are pampered, showered with gifts and generally spoilt rotten on Mother’s Day. I thought so myself until recently, but the truth is slightly different. For, surprisingly, Father’s Day was started by mums. Although the one utterly unsurprising thing is that they were American mums. But they didn’t have a consumer-led economic boost in mind. It was all far, far more serious than that. The first Father’s Day was held in Fairmont, West Virginia, on 5 July 1908, as a memorial service for more than 200 men recently killed in the Monongah Mining Disaster, leaving 1,000 fatherless children. It was a largely local affair, although in what seems to have been a case of simultaneous invention, the town of Spokane, Washington, held another Father’s Day service two years later. The idea belonged to Sonora Smart Dodd whose father William, a Civil War veteran, had raised six children on his own after his wife died in childbirth. This was at a time when motherhood was becoming increasingly sentimentalised and Mothering Sunday (the fourth Sunday in Lent) was being more and more widely celebrated. Dodd felt that men deserved an equal break (hurrah!). She won the support of the local YMCA and churches, and on the appointed Sunday – which, rather neatly for us in 2011, happened to be 19 June – YMCA members all went to church wearing roses in their lapels to honour their dads. Spokane’s church service attracted much wider attention than Fairmont’s and became an annual event. President Wilson was a speaker at the 1916 event, and eight years
30
later President Coolidge backed one of several failed bids in Congress to recognise it as a national holiday – an ambition finally realised by President Nixon only in 1972. A rather cheapskate holiday, though. As it’s always on a Sunday, nobody actually has a day off work. So last year was the centenary of the first Father’s Day. This was celebrated by the ringing of church bells and processions of grateful children bearing bottles of scotch. Well, it should have been, but it wasn’t. The reason – and I’m guessing here, but there must be a reason – was that everyone realised that the 101st anniversary was far worthier of celebration because, like the first, it falls on Trinity Sunday.
surprisingly, Father’s Day was started by mums
If you’re a practising Christian (which I hasten to add, I’m not), you’ll see the significance of this. God the Son has loads of space in the liturgical calendar – Christmas, Easter, Ascension Day and so on. The Holy Ghost has Pentecost. But God the Father doesn’t have his own special day (although there is a movement to dedicate the second Sunday in August to him). Trinity Sunday is the nearest we come. As I said, I’m not religious, but the symmetry still pleases. But what would really please me would be for someone to buy me a bottle of scotch…
Please men on Thatcham Connec ons when responding to adver sements...
Karen Tyler-Trillo
After a lifetime of loving, caring for and owning pets and with a farming background, Karen has turned her attention to the welfare of animals in a professional capacity. Karen will visit your pet and look after him/her with much loving care. Whatever your pet may be, Pet Angels UK are here to offer a variety of fully insured services. Not only is your life made easier - and you have peace of mind when you are out or away - but also this ensures no stress for your animal. These services include: Dog Walking, Pet Feeding, Pet/House sitting, Basic pet grooming in your home. Also, Pet Taxi and Dog Midwifery.
In addition to the services already mentioned, Karen and her team are also happy to water plants, pick up post and carry out basic house security checks at your request. One-to-one Clicker training for your dog is also offered with an experienced trainer. Pet Angels UK services are expanding all the time - to include Pet Portraits and provide accessories. Please have a look on their website for more information: Readers who mention seeing this ad will be given a 10% discount on their first booking.
Your local friendly Pet Service Tel: 01635 881 891 or 07876 785312
www.petangelsuk.co.uk
Please men on Thatcham Connec ons when responding to adver sements.
31
FEATURE: Our Health Therapist - Theresa Wright
The simple and the complex Carbohydrate is a complex matter! There are basically two types of carbohydrate; simple and complex. Carbohydrate comes from plant foods and provides 4 calories of energy per gramme. We burn carbohydrate when we work our bodies at a high intensity (over 70% of capacity). That’s why so much is made of eating carbohydrates when exercising. Assuming, of course, that we are all always working out at a high intensity! Let’s look at simple carbohydrates first. Simple carbohydrates are often referred to as sugars which can be confusing, because this gets interpreted as a teaspoon of sugar. However, fruit, fruit juices and dried fruit are all simple carbohydrates. Nobody is suggesting that eating fruit is bad for you – in fact quite the reverse! – All carbohydrates are made of molecules or units of sugars called saccharides. Saccarides are found singularly, in pairs and in complicated chains. Simple carbohydrates comprise of two single units called monosaccharides – glucose, galactose and fructose - and disaccharides which are two units of sugar joined together; examples are Sucrose = glucose and fructose (table sugar) Lactose = glucose and galactose (milk sugar) Complex carbohydrates are made up of many units of saccharides and are called polysaccharides (from the Greek poly meaning many). Polysaccharides are often called starches. Starch is the plant world’s equivalent of sugar. Starch provides plants with energy which we, in turn, can also utilise. Starch makes up a large percentage of our daily diet and can be found in bread, rice, pasta, vegetables and all grain based foods.
32
We can divide these foods into two units, refined carbohydrate and unrefined. Refined foods in this group would include white bread, pasta and rice and notably, the carbohydrate content of processed foods. Refined foods, although a good source of energy, are largely stripped of their nutrient content (vitamins and minerals) and are insufficient in dietary fibre. The amino acids (protein part of the food), remains largely intact and these refined carbohydrates can be used as a source of incomplete proteins (see my website http://www.bitesize-exercise.com/ipadexercise/2011/04/14/lets-talk-protein/). However, by far the best type of complex carbohydrate is sourced from unrefined foods such as whole wheat bread and pasta, brown rice and whole grain cereals where the nutrient and energy value of the foods is far greater than the refined foods – notably the Vitamin B complex which is necessary for the utilisation of carbohydrate. It would be unrealistic to try and eliminate all refined carbohydrates from our diet, but to make a conscious effort to include unrefined sources of carbohydrate is a sensible and healthful choice. Carbohydrate is broken down in the body by digestive enzymes and turned into glucose. Glucose stimulates the release of the hormone insulin. Insulin is like a key which allows the glucose to enter the cells of the body offering nutritional energy. Glucose is stored in the cells when it is then changed to glycogen where it is stored for later use. Excess is stored as fat. About 25% of the glucose remains in the blood stream and is used to fuel our brain. As we can see carbohydrate is the most complex of the macro nutrients (the other two macro nutrients are protein and fat). Next time I will be talking about the macro nutrient fat and dietary fibre, both of which are an important and often misunderstood part of our
diet. Theresa Wright Health Therapist 0118 9710255 www.theresamwright.com www.bitesize-exercise.com
See page 67.
Twitter @tw_training
Please men on Thatcham Connec ons when responding to adver sements...
PETER KIRKHAM YOUR LOCAL HANDYMAN
Specialising in:
Building and Garden Services I am reliable and honest Reasonable costs References available Fully insured I am also an Approved Contractor for the Local Parish Council
Fencing Patios Deckwork Brickwork and Repointing Garden Maintenance - from domestic one-offs to regular commercial contracts Decorating Tiling Carpentry - general building and maintenance Please visit my website to see more:
www.berkshirehandymanservices.co.uk All major credit cards accepted
72 Loundes Close, Thatcham, Berkshire RG18 3EB
t: 01635 872285 m: 07849 078204
THE MATURE HANDYMAN FOR ALL THE JOBS YOU CANT DO YOURSELF! Martin Newman is a mature 50 plus tradesman with many years experience in the building and flooring trades. FLOORING
From a cloakroom to an entire house, we have a large selection of carpets, vinyls or wood laminate flooring which can be supplied and fitted expertly
CARPENTRY
Curtain rails, shelving, door hanging, flat pack furniture assembly.
He aims to provide a reliable and professional property maintenance service for people of all ages. He covers Thatcham, Newbury and surrounding areas. He offers a ‘pay as you go’ service based on very reasonable half hourly rates, or fixed price quotes for jobs of 8 hours or more duration.
PAINTING
All types of internal and external painting and decorating
PLUMBING
From a new tap washer to a new bathroom suite
For more details or to book a home visit please call Martin on
01635 741377 or 07970 897317 e: martinnewman1956@btinternet.com
www.thematurehandyman.com
34
Please men on Thatcham Connec ons when responding to adver sements...
“PURR-FECT AMATEUR ENTERTAINMENT”
“PURR-FECT AMATEUR ENTERTAINMENT”
Leighton Park School
Take the stress out of the school run.
NUSERW OUTE
B We have a new bus route serving: Thatcham
Woolhampton
Mortimer
School
The location of a school and the logistics of getting your child there should not be a hindrance to finding the right school. Leighton Park School in Reading is now offering school transport from the Thatcham area following requests from both current and prospective parents. To find out more please visit our website or call 0118 987 9608
www.leightonpark.com/thatcham
36
Please men on Thatcham Connec ons when responding to adver sements...
Please men on Thatcham Connec ons when responding to adver sements.
37
Laws Floors Visit: www.lawsfloors.com
“Always striving to go that extra mile” We are suppliers and fitters of
CARPETS, VINYLS, WOODS, KARNDEAN & SAFETY FLOORING,
We cover Thatcham and the surrounding villages.
covering the Domestic, Commercial and Industrial Sectors.
Our prices really are very competitive as we have very little overheads and can cut out the middle man, which is how we manage to beat most other quotes.
Below are the services we can provide: Free estimating service Fitting service Adaption of old carpets Supply of underlay, grippers and door bars Supply of a massive range of carpets Supply of vinyls, laminates and solid wood Supply of Karndean Carpet delivery Door Easing
We are fully insured and full references are available upon request. So if you are looking to have a replacement floor or just require some free professional advice, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Our customers have said the following: “Thank you to Laws Floors for supplying and fitting carpets in 2 of our houses. The price and quality of your work has been excellent – I couldn’t fault anything, Thank you also for completing the work within the time schedule.” - Victoria “Thanks for all your hard efforts this week, we feel that the flat is fast becoming a home now.”
- Stuart and Caroline Please see more testimonials on our website.
(office) 01491 684020 (mobile) 07834 723942 (email) law235@btinternet.com
BIG PRINT 0845 470 4040
Âź page pdf
sales@bigprint.org.uk www.bigprint.org.uk
For all your print requirements Friendly people and sensible prices Big Print Limited. Harts Hill Road, Thatcham, Berkshire, RG18 4NW
Featured in Michelin and all main food guides A la carte menu available in the restaurant Classic bar food menu available in the bar Weekday lunchtime set price menu Seasonal game always on the menu Award-winning local real ales Lovely big garden with loads of seating Dogs welcome in the bar and garden Beautiful views across fields and woodland Great walks from the pub As seen on ITV’s Countrywise Open every day except Tuesdays Booking recommended www.potkiln.org | 01635 201366
Please men on Thatcham Connec ons when responding to adver sements.
39
The school offers a range of dance classes for adults Ballroom, Latin American and Sequence Dancing. All abilities welcome from ‘two left footers’ with little sense of rhythm - to those who wish to improve their technique and style. Classes held in Thatcham & Cold Ash.
School of Dance
01635 580930 www.1stepahead.info
www.cookerburra.co.uk
D D. Chimney Sweep Professional
P.
Services Est. 10 Years • Brush and Vacuum • Pots, Cowls, Caps & Birdguards Fitted • Chimney Stacks Repaired • Brick Fireplaces • Fully Insured Contact: P Dollin
Tel: 01635 871885 Mobile: 07885 105 006
ROGER FIS FISHER HER
Est. 1993
THE UK’S NO 1 OVEN CLEANING SERVICE
Carpenter/Joiner Kitchen Fitter/ Glaze Tiling House Maintenance Painting/Decorating
DIRTY COOKER ? OVENS, HOBS, RANGES & AGAS YOUR FRANCHISE COVERING
NEWBURY & THATCHAM
30 Years Experience
Call Angela: 01488 684955
Tel: 01635 201047 mob: 07876 588721
ARE CLEANERS APROVED APROVED ARE YOUR YOUR OVEN OVEN CLEANERS BY STANDARDS ?? BY BERKSHIRE BERKSHIRE TRADING TRADING STANDARDS
P.C. DECORATING Paul Coulson
Newbury Cats Protection
Tel: 07771 610230 or 01635 201835
• • • •
Local Painter and Decorator with 8 years Experience All types of decorating undertaken including plastering & wallpapering Call now to arrange a FREE No Obligation Quotation No job Too Small
We have many cats seeking loving homes especially older cats fundraising volunteers always needed For further information contact 01635 200111 Open daily 11am-3pm by appointment www.newbury.cats.org.uk
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
40
Please men on Thatcham Connec ons when responding to adver sements...
No time for housework? We’ll clean your home to the highest standard! 9 Friendly, fully trained team
9 Flexible cleaning services (weekly, fortnightly, monthly)
9 Spring cleans, one-off blitz 9 All cleaning products & equipment provided 9 Your clean is fully insured & guaranteed Call Phil Ryder on
01635 873911 for a FREE estimate
Newbury.clean@myhome.com
TWO HEROES
Thornford Road Crookham Common Newbury RG19 8EL All Dogs Walked Daily Professional Care and Attention at all times Viewing welcome by appointment. For further details please ring:
01635 268544
In April of this year in Afghanistan, Corporal Liam Tasker’s dog, Theo, (a springer spaniel aged 22 months) died of ‘a seizure’ just a few hours after his master was killed. Three weeks prior to his death, Theo was praised as a record breaking Army sniffer dog.
Do you have an unusual story about a great dog? If so, please email me.
Ed
Looking for a lovely dog? Call our Newbury centre now On 01488 658391 www.dogstrust.org.uk
Reg Charity No: 227523 & SC037843
42
Please men on Thatcham Connec ons when responding to adver sements...
The Grooming Room We are caring Groomers offering a wide range of specialist services including:
Bathing, Clipping, Trimming, Stripping & De-Matting. Nail clipping, ear plucking and dental care also available. A full animal spa available including pick-up and delivery service if required. In addition we have a full range of holistic foods and treats on site to give your animal the vitality and health that it deserves.
Contact:
0118 971 2936
or
07786 820 239
Your Pets (The Reptile House), Bath Road, Midgham, Berkshire, RG7 5XB.
10% OFF with this voucher
DRAIN & ABLE
Local Based Independent Family Drainage Service 24/7 SERVICE 24/7EMERGENCY EMERGENCY SERVICE GUARANTEED GUARANTEED ARRIVAL ARRVAL ALLTELEPHONE TELEPHONE CALLS ALL CALLS ANSWERED PERSONALLY PERSONALLY ANSWERED
• Sinks • Urinals • Toilets • Baths • • Soakaways • Storm Drains • • Foul Water Drains • Downpipes • • CCTV Surveys • Full Drain Repair Service No Call-Out Charge - We’re Local Fully Insured Honest & Reliable ~ Call Kevin any time on 0118 9576244 / 07795 598207 www.drainandable.co.uk
NEW CURTAIN GALLERY OPEN
By the UK’s largest oven cleaning company
Non-caustic. Ovens, hobs, extractors and microwaves cleaned.
: 01635 818080 www.ovenclean.com 44
Please men on Thatcham Connec ons when responding to adver sements...
Join us as we step back in time to present a war time revue set in the second world . The show combines a mixture of comedy, music and a glimpse into life both home and abroad from the outbreak of war to Victory! There will be a war time theme throughout the venue which will be dressed as an air raid shelter and village hall! We include a piping hot 2 course meal for you, as the rations will allow! Please feel free to join in and dress for the occasion and ... don't forget your gas mask! Tickets are £10, £8 concessions and there is a matinee on the Saturday. Tickets can be obtained from the Family Bookshop in Thatcham. or through our web site.
www.kats.org.uk
MAKE A NOTE IN YOUR DIARY
KENNET AMATEUR THEATRICAL SOCIETY
AT
BUCKELBURY MEMORIAL HALL
Wednesday 27th - Saturday 30th July 2011
“We hope to make generous donations to
Help For Heroes and The British Royal Legion from any profits.”
THATCHAM & NEWBURY MAINTENANCE SERVICES
WATER SOFTENERS Drinking Water - Salt
plumbing / heating electrical / carpentry Specialists in plumbing and heating. We are registered to install and service all systems. We offer many other maintenance services, including:
• Electrical • Small Building • Carpentry • Installing bathrooms and kitchens We always offer free quotes for our services and free call outs.
Call us now on 01635 826770 or 07771 653289 www.plumbersberkshire.co.uk email: williams.ron@virginmedia.com Please men on Thatcham Connec ons when responding to adver sements.
JM Softeners 0118 984 1500 0500 600 490
www.jmsofteners.co.uk Service & Repairs of most makes Free site survey without obligation Professional advice given Visit our showroom: Unit 1, The Old Mill, Reading Road, Pangbourne, Berkshire, RG8 7HY
45
WHAT’S ON IN THE COM COMMUNITY: MUNITY: Thatcham’s third Family Fun Day with Junior Fun Run in the Field will take place on Sunday, 26th June at Henwick Worthy Sports Field on the A4, off Henwick Lane in Thatcham. The Fun Day will be open to the general public from 11am until 4pm and its objective is ‘… to promote health, fitness and fun’. Building on the success of previous events, where in 2009 and 2010 over 2,000 people attended, Thatcham Town Council’s Fun Day Committee are planning new attractions and are hoping to have some new sports on show and a larger variety of stalls. The aim is to offer the residents of Thatcham an opportunity to meet with representatives of as many of the different sports organisations serving the town as possible, watch displays and where practical, to join in a taster session of each sport free of charge! There will also be local Charities raising funds for their causes by running games, tombolas, face painting, cake sales and lots more. The day will be rounded of with a tug of war competition and although it’s just some regular teams are expected to fight it out for the GKG Vets Tug of War Shield! The annual United Service of Remembrance to remember deceased friends and family will be held at Thatcham’s London Road Cemetery on Sunday 17th July 2010 from 3pm. The Service combines carefully selected prayers, secular readings and hymns accompanied by a group from Cold Ash Brass. Clergy from the Town's churches will be present and representatives from the Samaritans and CRUSE will be on hand to assist and talk with residents following the loss of family members and friends. All are welcome. For more information about the United Service of Remembrance please visit www.thatchamtowncouncil.gov.uk or call the Thatcham Town Council Offices on T: 01635 863592.
“A Neighbourhood Watch Meeting is being held on Monday 15 August 2011 at 7.30 pm in West Berkshire Council Offices, Market Street, Newbury. We shall be having a talk by a representative from the Thames Valley Police Dog Section based at Sulhamstead. Crime updates will also be given by the Neighbourhood Policing Team and Fire Service. Anyone is welcome to attend Angela Money, Chair of Newbury and this meeting.” Thatcham Neighbourhood Watch.
'Saturday 9 July - Summer Fete at St Finian's Catholic Primary School, The Ridge, Cold Ash, Thatcham, 01635 865925. Enjoy an afternoon filled with family fun in a beautiful setting overlooking Newbury. Live musical entertainment including local talents Cold Ash Brass Juniors, barbecue, home-made cream teas, bouncy castle, face-painting and lots of stalls and games. 2 pm - 6
46
Please men on Thatcham Connec ons when responding to adver sements...
Royal School of Military Survey Freedom of the Town Wednesday, 20th July 2011 at approx. 1.30 pm in Thatcham Broadway The Royal School of Military Survey (RSMS) traces its heritage back to 1833 when it was established at the Royal Military Academy Woolwich as a survey training branch. After a period of stability the School moved to a number of locations including Chatham, Fort Southwick, Ruabon and Longleat before finally settling at Hermitage, Berkshire in early 1949, when it was renamed the School of Military Survey. In 1979 a major rebuild at Hermitage at last provided the School with purpose built facilities. As part of Military Survey’s 250th Anniversary celebrations in 1997, Her Majesty the Queen graciously awarded the School the Royal accolade. Thatcham Town Council has resolved to honour the School with the Freedom of the Town. The honour is in recognition, nationally and internationally, of the outstanding contribution the RSMS has made to the education and training of Defence personnel and the close relationship which has existed between the Royal School of Military Survey and the Corps of Royal Engineers at Denison Barracks and the residents of Thatcham for more than sixty years. The recognition is being given on the occasion of the 90th Anniversary of the Royal British Legion. The Freedom confers upon the Royal School of Military Survey “the right, honour and distinction of marching through the streets of the Town on all ceremonial occasions with colours flying, bands playing, drums beating and bayonets ficted”. To confer this honour, a ceremonial event is being planned to take place on Wednesday 20th July 2011 at approx. 1.30pm in Thatcham Broadway. This will include a presentation of a scroll and a parade by the soldiers and representatives from the Royal British Legion. Residents of Thatcham are warmly invited to witness this historic and prestigious event. More details of the event will be published on the Town Council’s website: www.thatchamtowncouncil.gov.uk.
Please men on Thatcham Connec ons when responding to adver sements.
47
50
Please men on Thatcham Connec ons when responding to adver sements...
Garden Thyme
Garden Maintenance and Landscape Services
Garden Thyme is run by Ian Douglas and Mark Lissenden. Ian and Mark have over 30 years of combined experience and knowledge in the gardening sector, maintaining and developing private and commercial gardens to a high standard. Our qualifications include NVQ Certificates in Amenity Horticulture and RHS General Certificates. We offer a reliable and professional service, so that we can create, maintain and develop an enjoyable garden.
Our Thyme is your Pleasure.
Their services include: •
Regular maintenance on private and commercial properties, weekly, fortnightly or monthly visits
•
Small tree removals
•
Hedge Cutting/Pruning
•
Garden clearances
•
Jet Washing
•
Fence/Shed Painting
•
Weed control
•
Scarifying services
•
Rotovating service for vegetable plots and allotments
Mark
Office 01635 866546
Ian
Ian Douglas 07725 819 652 Mark Lissenden 07742 078 026 gardenthymeservices@hotmail.co.uk
www.gardenthyme.org.uk Please men on Thatcham Connec ons when responding to adver sements.
51
Quick & Easy Installation New Conservatories Quality Where It Matters
All sizes and specifications available. Prices start from ÂŁ5,250 which includes full installation of the conservatory and the base. Thatcham & Newbury Conservatories Ltd are a local company offering great personal service and unbeatable value for money.
THATCHAM & NEWBURY CONSERVATORIES LTD For more information and a free quote contact Tony Coombs
01635 860159 - 07785 525752 ajcservices@hotmail.co.uk
52
Please men on Thatcham Connec ons when responding to adver sements...
Please men on Thatcham Connec ons when responding to adver sements.
53
FEATURE: Hanging Baskets - By Pippa Greenwood
Garden Feature The Hanging Gardens of Babylon may be the famous ones, but why not create a superbly colourful hanging basket of your own? Garden centres and nurseries are crammed full of summer bedding plants at this time of year and there are colours to suit every taste. If aerial gardening is not for you, then the same type of plants can be used to produce a superb container for your terrace, patio or backyard. The great thing about summer bedding containers is that you can do just about whatever you want in the way of planting ...and get away with it. So now that the frosts are over in most areas, why not start planting? All you need is readily available from your local garden centre: a good-sized basket choose a 12” basket as it’s easier to keep moist than smaller ones, a hanging-basket liner (make sure it is the same diameter as the basket you’ve chosen), or a good-sized pot or planter with plenty of drainage holes. A good quality multi-purpose compost is essential for excellent results. What you choose is up to you, but the range is vast - Nemesia, Surfinia Petunias, Upright Petunias, Cineraria ‘Silverdust’, purple-bronze leafed Thalia Fuchsias or their more traditional cousins, Pelargoniums, Lobelia ...the list is endless. Think carefully about colours and textures. Decide whether you’re going for subtle or brash and bold, or if you would like to coordinate the flowers with other garden features. If you are planting a basket, place it in a large flowerpot as this stops the round-bottomed basket from moving and makes it much easier 54
to plant. Place the liner in the basket, adjusting it to fit the basket and trimming off any excess. Next add handfuls of compost up until the point where you want to plant around the sides of the basket. Planting slits are included in some liners. If you are using a pot, place a few inches of broken flower pots or large stones in the base and top up with compost to within a few inches of the pot rim. Carefully remove the plants you need from their containers, easing the root balls out gently but firmly. An upright plant such as a Fuchsia or Pelargonium is a perfect choice for the centre of the basket or container as it helps to give your planting height and structure. For hanging baskets carefully ease the root ball of each through the planting slit and nestle the root ball in to the compost. It is easier posting the roots through and you’re less likely to do any long term damage. Any container looks better if there are plants cascading over the sides, so choose trailing plants and put these in around the edge. Space the trailing plants evenly around the sides of the basket. Drizzle compost around and between the root balls of all the plants, making sure that each one has new and fresh compost to grow in to. Use your fingers to firm the compost and make sure that there are no gaps. It is best to use a combination of cascading plants and some upright ones around the outer edges of a basket. This will ensure a really well filled and colourful display and should help to hide the basket framework too. Once the planting is complete, water the container thoroughly using a watering can with
Please men on Thatcham Connec ons when responding to adver sements...
FEATURE: the rose attached. It is best not to hang a basket up or stand a pot in its final position until it has had a few days ‘rest’ sitting in a cool spot out of too much hot, direct sunshine. This little rest period allows the plants to settle in to their new home and perform better later on.
Tips for Keeping your Summer Planter or Basket Looking Great • Water regularly, never letting the compost dry out completely. Use a watering can with rose attached, or a gentle spray nozzle on the end of a hose to minimise the risk of disturbing the compost or the plants.
• If the container does become too dry it may be difficult to re-wet the compost. If so, carefully sit it in a bowl of water for about an hour, allowing it to soak up the water it needs from the base and sides.
• Regularly remove faded flowers, before
they have a chance to set seed. This should help to encourage the plants to continue producing more flowers. Pinching them off by hand works well for most plants
but if the stems are a bit tough, use secateurs or sharp scissors.
• Check regularly for any pests such as greenfly and treat the problem promptly. When plants are as tightly crammed together as they are in a flourishing basket or patio pot, problems soon build up and spread if you’re not quick off the mark.
• Feed every couple of weeks with a high-
potash liquid fertiliser such as a tomato feed, as this will help to encourage more flowers to develop. If you position a planter full of summer bedding on the paving beneath a hanging basket, then any excess water or feed from the basket won’t be wasted.
Pippa Greenwood is a gardening writer and journalist and regular panellist on BBC Radio 4’s ‘Gardeners’ Question Time’. Pippa gives a wide range of talks and lectures to gardening clubs and societies. Visit www.pippagreenwood.com and sign up as a ‘Friend of Pippa’ to receive a free e-book and regular gardening updates and bulletins. Browse the site to buy signed books and find out more.
Please men on Thatcham Connec ons when responding to adver sements.
55
Liege Carpentry & Construction Carpentry, Joinery and all other building requirements Specialist in traditional Carpentry methods and maintenance/repairs on listed buildings > All other Carpentry and Joinery > Oak Frame Buildings Truss & Cut Roofs > Refurbishments & Extensions > Paving / Decking / Fencing > Kitchen Fitting, Brick and Flint Work
Fully Insured • Local family run business Free no obligation estimates OAP & Forces Discounts available
Brett Messenger Based in Thatcham
07581 299148 or 01635 868253 Email: liegecarpentryandconstruction@hotmail.co.uk
The Complete Garden Service
FUNERAL DIRECTORS & MEMORIAL CONSULTANTS 15 Hampton Road Newbury Berkshire RG14 6DB Tel: 01635 41615 Fax: 01635 522050
Dignity Funerals Ltd. A company registered in England
56
Please men on Thatcham Connec ons when responding to adver sements...
IN WOOLHAMPTON VILLAGE HALL - TUESDAYS
BETWEEN
9.30 & 3.30
Stroke Care offers invaluable support to Stroke Survivors and we need your help!
This thriving Stroke Group is run by Alison who is urgently looking for help. Our aim is to give help, advice, companionship and care to each person who joins us for the day. We try to make sure that we provide a useful, balanced and fun day - one that everyone feels is very worthwhile - and that includes all helpers!
∗ ∗ ∗
Are you adaptable? Could you spare a few hours on Tuesdays? ay Are you good with people?
If the answer is ‘yes’ please contact Alison as soon as possible.
01635 241378
An idea: “If you are a student at home for the holidays, it could look very good on your C.V!
Please men on Thatcham Connec ons when responding to adver sements.
57
A. Thompson Builders A family run business specialising in a range of both external and interior building work.
Extension Specialist • • • • • • • • • • • •
Barn Conversions Garage Conversions Driveways and Patios All Roofing and Guttering works Brick, Stone & Flint work Hard Landscaping Drainage Kitchens Bathrooms Plumbing Electrical Painting and Decorating
Telephone 01635 201087 Mobile 07909 902435
Email athompsonbuilders@gmail.com Oakwood, Slanting Hill, Hermitage, Newbury, Berks RG18 9QG w w w. a t h o m p s o n b u i l d e r. c o . u k
58
Please men on Thatcham Connec ons when responding to adver sements...
from as little as per month
Please men on Thatcham Connec ons when responding to adver sements.
59
• Sheds • Garden Rooms • Summerhouses • Garages • Studios Within Hillier’s Garden Centre, Hermitage, Newbury Telephone 01635 200000 www.newburygardenbuildings.co.uk
60
Please men on Thatcham Connec ons when responding to adver sements...
F R A N C H I S E S AT THE HILLIER GARDEN CENTRE H E R M I TAG E T H AT C H A M RG 1 8 9 T G Turf and Paving Centre
www.nigelbelcherturf.co.uk
01635 202 700
Berkshire Aquatics
The Energy Warehouse Ltd Please see opposite page for main advertisement.
• Wide range of Koi and pond fish • Equipment • Pond Design & Build
Renewable Energy Showroom & Consultancy
01635 203344
01635 2000 00
01635 202300
Prestige Swimming Pools
01635 201623
01635 201854
Please men on Thatcham Connec ons when responding to adver sements.
61
FEATURE: Thatcham Connections - Challenge Page
WORD SEARCH K C O D D A P G
N H A R V E S T
D E E O K P G F
O E K T T G G A
C C B C F S E R
G P A A I A F M
R H S R R H C E
C E I T G N C R
ime! Riddle Tbottom
at (answer e) of the pag
the Why did sh? lu b to toma
Tractor Har vest Chicken Eggs Farmer Paddock Barn
8
1
18
+
=
56
45
-
=
21
=
35
X
7
IC MAGBER NUM
Can yo u work these s ums ou t?
7
3
7
9
th To e fin n d ea um th ch be e o rs ma in the tog gic to r, e n ci an the um rc d r le p th ber be ut at , j lo th a us w e re t th an n ad em sw ex d er t to !
3
2
Riddle answer: Because he saw the salad dressing!
An s w e r s s e e p a g e 6 6 62
Please men on Thatcham Connec ons when responding to adver sements...
BUCKLEBURY
CONSTRUCTION Established 25 years
• Extensions • Groundwork • Driveways and Patios • Painting and Decorating • Alterations & Refurbishment • And many other aspects of building projects
01635 860253
07767252485
“We have recently built the extension to Bucklebury Memorial
Please men on Thatcham Connec ons when responding to adver sements.
63
FEATURE: passing her by, she’s missing out on quality time with her two young sons and as far as she can see, there’s one thing making it all twice as difficult - and she’s married to him. Compiling a spreadsheet of ‘infringe-ments’, from displaced used teabags to wet towels left on the bed, as well as a few positives to redress the balance, husband Joel unknowingly has six months to correct his score. Or else. Brilliant, funny and sharp – all mums/ partners to untidy spouses will love this.
Books for the Summer! Hothouse Flower by Lucinda Riley Having suffered a huge personal tragedy, concert pianist Julia Forrester returns to the stately home where she grew up. Now undergoing renovations under a new owner, a hidden diary has been discovered which transports Julia and the reader to France and Thailand as she pieces together a love story from the distant past. Both funny and heart-breaking, there’s a real depth of emotion to this debut novel which won’t be quickly forgotten. Artichoke Hearts by Sita Brahmachari This is the touching tale of twelve year-old Mira, who is on the verge of adulthood and trying to cope with the loss of a beloved Grandmother whilst also experiencing a blossoming friendship which opens a new chapter in her life. Exploring emotion on every level, from love, loss and acceptance to family, friendship and growing-up, this is a lovely book which every girl must read. The Man who Broke into Auschwitz by Denis Avey Perfect for Dads with a taste for a gripping true story, this is the 64
incredible account of a British soldier who in 1944 marched willingly into Auschwitz to see for himself if the awful rumours were really true. Swapping places with a Jewish inmate, Denis Avey witnessed the horrors of the camp as well as the final Death March. Here he recounts his heartbreaking experience with both courage and wisdom. War Horse by Michael Morpurgo The worldwide success of this story confirms that it is one that’s not to be missed. Here we have an unusual account of the WWI trenches, as seen through the eyes of a horse, Joey. Both horrific and powerfully involving, the author has captured hidden tales of friendship and humanity whilst revealing the futility of war in a way which both children and adults will understand. This special edition from Egmont will make a great gift, featuring beautiful illus trations from François Place. The Pile of Stuff at the Bottom of the Stairs by Christina Hopkinson
The Help by Kathryn Stockett An utterly absorbing, deeply moving tale which delves into 1960s America and the story of the black maids who raised white children whilst dealing with ongoing discrimination from a prejudiced society. The author creates some truly wonderful characters in her presentation of ‘the other side to Gone with the Wind’. Inspirational, beautifully written and sincere - you won’t be able to put it down.
Mary Gilmour is a frustrated mum with too much to do and too little time. Life is Please men on Thatcham Connec ons when responding to adver sements...
ÖâtÄ|àç {tÇw vÜtyàxw DESIGNED • MANAGED • CONSTRUCTED
Holdaways Farm, Brimpton RG7 4TD
Email: info@thebarnpartnership.co.uk Tel: 0118 971 4400 www.thebarnpartnership.co.uk
For all your Decorating Requirements 20 Years Experience - City & Guilds Qualified Free Quotes
T. 01635 863 362 M. 07510 545 973 Almond Drive, Thatcham, Newbury, Berkshire, RG18 4DZ Please men on Thatcham Connec ons when responding to adver sements.
65
*M
*F FR IT EE TI NG *
E A FR E SU E RI NG
SMART BLINDS
*
01635 860463 07834 920827
& SHUTTERS
sim simons-w.c.s@hotmail.co.uk k www.simons-windows.co.uk k
SHOWROOM HIGH ST, THATCHAM
• • • • • • •
“CLEANING WINDOWS
Romans Wood Venetian Pleated Vertical Blinds Rollers Plantation Shutters Conservatory Blinds
THE TRADITIONAL WAY SINCE 1993 1993”” Exterior and interior windows cleaned Conservatory roofs cleaned exterior and interior UPVC framework wash down on windows/conservatories/guttering/ facias/ soffits and bargeboards Gutter clearing and minor repair
Keenest Prices - Best Service We are a local family business Call PAUL or SUE 01635 866600
Wasp and Hornet nest treatment Analogue aerial removed
www.smart_blinds.net
THATCHAM BASED
FULLY INSURED
ANSWERS: Solutions to Sudokus page 6
Answers to page 62
Solution to Codeword
Can You Work These Sums Out?: 38, 24, 5 Magic Number: 280
66
Ed
Please men on Thatcham Connec ons when responding to adver sements...
Please men on Thatcham Connec ons when responding to adver sements.
67
INDEX Accommodation to let Upper Lodge Farm 7 Aerials - satellite One Degree West 2 Amateur Theatrical Society KATS 35/45 Architects Abigan Technology 7 Barns The Barn Partnership 65 Blinds Reynolds Blinds 44 Smart Blinds 66 Boarding Kennels Foxhold 42 Builders Bucklebury Construction 63 Falkland Builders 27 A Thompson 58 Building Society Newbury Building Society 44 Car Maintenance Halfway Garage 13 Revive 63 Carpenter/Joiner Ivan Ivanov 8 Liege Carpentry 56 Roger Fisher 40 Carpet Cleaner Chem Dry 13 Cats Protection Newbury Cats Protection 40 Charity The Newbury & Dist Cancer Care Trust 12 Children Including Babies GR Swimming School 18 Illume - photographer 20 Jubilee Jets Holiday Club 21 Jubilee Day Nursery 22 Leighton Park School bus 48 Monkey Music 21 Nightingale’s Swim School 20 OISE 19 Read Dance 23 Tatty Bumpkin 17/21 Chimney Sweep PC Dollin 40 Cleaning My Home 41 Computers Sarah Sladen 53 Conservatories Thatcham & Newbury 52 Conservatories
Curtains & Soft Furnishings Indigo Designs 40 Dancing School One Step Ahead 40 The Dance Studio 14 Decorator Lady Painter & Decorator 13 PC Decorating 40 Tony Fegan 65 Dentist Dr Jeeves 3 Dog Grooming Services The Grooming Room 43 Drains Drain & Able 44 Electrician Home Electrics 27 RJS Electrical 5 Farm Park Bucklebury Farm Park 18 Fitness Classes Sportbilly 20 Flooring Laws Floors 38 Funeral Directors Turner Brothers 56 Garden Centre Hilliers Garden Centre 61 Gardening Services AJC Services 50 Buckingham Landscape 40 Garden Thyme 51 Green Thumb 59 Jims Mowing 56 JPH Forestry 55 Mowers UK 53 Newbury Garden Buildings 60 Salcey Arborcare 57 Gas Specialists LPC Limited 71 Golf Club Bradfield College 28 Guttering Services CD Guttering 12 Handyman Peter Kirkham 33 Martin Newman 34 Hair & Beauty Angie’s Nails & Beauty 45 Bernies 25 Face First Clinic 24 Tracey Mobile 23 Health Visitor Helen Long 16/23 Health & Fitness Club Bradfield College 28
Health Therapist Relax to Revive 24 Theresa Wright 32/67 Kitchen Refurbisher Renu 39 Letting Agents Downers 70 Locksmith Cap Security 27 Memorials Memorials in Stone 26 Newbury Memorials 6 Organic Foods Riverford 29 Oven Cleaning Cookerburra 40 Ovenclean 44 Pet Carer Pet Angels 31 Picture Framer Inner Piece 13 Plumber GJH Plumbing 27 Thatcham & Newbury Maintenance Services 45 Paul Worsley 67 Podiatrist/Chiropody Treat your Feet 26 Printer Big Print 39 Restaurants The Coach & Horses 66 The Pot Kiln at Frilsham 39 The Six Bells 12 The Swan 11 Sand & Gravel Rivar 55 Solicitor Gardner Leader 9 Tax Advice Tax Assist 29 Storage - secure The Barn Store 29 Vet O’Gorman Slater Main 42 Water Softener JM Softeners 45 Window Cleaner Simon’s Windows 66 Yoga Classes Discover Yoga 15
HandyNumbers Emergency Community Responders Police/Emergency Thames Valley Police British Gas Emergency Thames Water Emergency Southern Electric Emergency Royal Berks Ambulance NHS Royal Berks Fire & Rescue
0800 587 0207 Dial 999 0845 8505 505 0800 111 999 0845 9200 888 0845 770 8090 0118 9365500 0118 945 2888
Post Offices Cold Ash (last posting 4.20pm) Hermitage (last posting 4.30pm) Tesco, Northfield Road The Co-op, 54 The Broadway Woolhampton (Last posting 4.45pm) Yattendon (last posting 4.00pm)
01635 588300 01637 200276 01635 873251 01635 863223 01189713729 01635 201236
Schools Brockhurst & Marlston Downe House School Elstree School Francis Baily Kennet Parsons Down Infant & Nursery Parsons Down Junior Spurcroft Primary St Finians Cold Ash St Marks Cold Ash Thatcham Park C of E Trinity Whitelands Park Primary Yattendon Primary School Chemists Boots, Thatcham Medical Practice Lloyds Pharmacy, Burdwood Ctre Lloyds Pharmacy, Crown Mead Lloyds Pharmacy, Kingsland Ctre
Supermarkets Tesco, Northfield Rd The Co-op (24 hrs) at Texaco Garage The Co-op Broadway The Co-op Burdwood Centre The Co-op Dunston Park Waitrose, The Broadway Yattendon Stores
Hospitals West Berkshire Community Hosp Minor Injuries Only Royal Berkshire Hospital, Reading
Medical Practitioners Thatcham Medical Practice, Bath Rd Burdwood Surgery 01635 200293 Emergency Only 01635 200286 Out of Hours Doctor 0118 971 3302 01635 862188 Helping Services 01635 862121 A.A. 01635 862475 Cruse Bereavement Care 01635 866700 Newbury & District Cancer 01635 871541 Care Trust 01635 865925 Childline 01635 862600 PALS 01635 870950 Royal British Legion 01635 41373 RSPCA 01635 862517 Victim Support 01635 201397 Library
01635 864423 01635 868538 01635 863334 01635 869244
0845 0269402 01635 588300 01635 865052 01635 869701 01635 865011 01635 868113 01635 201236
01635 273300 0118 3225111
01635 867171 01635 868006 01635 866169 0118 9787811
0845 7697555 01635 523573 01635 31542 0800 1111 0118 932 3799 01635 867621 08705 555999 0845 30 30 900
Citizens Advice Bureau West Berks CAB, at Thatcham Health Centre Helpline for Carers Client Advice Line
01635 516605 01635 864245 0844 4779980
Travel Rail Enquiries Newbury Buses
08457 484950 01635 567500
Other Important Numbers B.T. Fault Line Fly Tipping, to report KATS Thatcham Connections Thatcham Photographic Club Vet: O'Gormon Slater Main DVLA Swansea
0800 800 151 01635 519080 0870 285 5289 0118 9886070 01635 865516 01635 868382 0300 7906801
Recycling Hermitage Garden Centre,
01635 200 442
(glass, textiles, books)
Kingsland Centre Car-park adjacent to Waitrose (paper, glass, mixed plastics, textiles, cans)
Household Waste Recycling Centre (opposite St Gabriel's School)
01635 866049
Mon: 9.30-5.00 Tues: 9.30-7.00 Wed: NOT OPEN Thurs: 9.30-5.00 Fri: 9.30-7.00 Sat: 9.30-12.30
Term Dates 2010 - 2011 Term 1 - Wednesday 1st September 2010 - Friday 22nd October 2010 (Holiday: Monday 25th October 2010 - Tuesday 2nd November 2010) Term 2 - Wednesday 3rd November 2010 - Friday 17th December 2010 (Holiday: Monday 20th December 2010 - Tuesday 4th January 2011) Term 3 - Wednesday 5th January 2011 - Friday 18th February 2011 (Holiday: Monday 21st February 2011 - Friday 25th February 2011) Term 4 - Monday 28th February 2011 - Friday 8th April 2011 (Holiday: Monday 11th April 2011- Tuesday 26th April 2011) Term 5 - Wednesday 27th April 2011 - Friday 27th May 2011 (Holiday: Monday 30th May 2011 - Friday 3rd June 2011) Term 6 - Monday 6th June 2011 - Friday 22nd July 2011 (Holiday commences Monday 25th July 2011) In Service Day - Wednesday 1st September 2010, the first day of term one, will be an INSET DAY for all West Berkshire Schools.
D Are you already a Landlord or thinking of becoming one? Since 1988 DOWNER & CO have been carefully letting and managing rental properties. We now look after more than 500 apartments, cottages, family houses and country homes. We continue to expand our business with advanced IT, more staff and improved systems and are keen to help new Landlords. You can expect: a clear fee structure with no hidden costs, inclusive of EPCs, legal agreements and notices, independent inventories (check-in/check-out), referencing, deposit protection (TDS) and keyholder service. Plus, for managed properties, regular inspections and written reports, 24/7 emergency contractor, rent collection/remittance and deposit release negotiation. Phone us and see what we can do for you
DOWNER & CO 44 Cheap Street Newbury Berkshire RG14 5BX 01635 523880
www.downer.co.uk 70
Please men on Thatcham Connec ons when responding to adver sements...
P L C
Mechanical Services ltd Heating & Plumbing
Your Local Gas Specialists ♦ LPG (Bottled Propane Gas) ♦ Mains Gas ♦ Commercial Properties
We are a local company with over twenty years experience In providing a friendly, caring and professional service LPC are proud of our excellent customer service and offer A wide and varied range of products and services including A five year warranty for all Worcester Bosch products We can give you free advice on ways to improve your heating system to reduce your energy costs and carbon footprint Servicing Boiler Breakdown Water Heaters Power Flushing Landlords Gas Safety
Boiler Repairs Catering Equipment Boiler Replacement Planned Maintenance Controls
0118 9712954 or 0800 3282867 (free call) LPC Ltd are proud to sponsor Ryan Lamb & London Irish RFC Please men on Thatcham Connec ons when responding to adver sements.
71
Ursula Aitken
Thatcham Connections
Stable 5
Tel: 0118 9886070
Gravelly Bridge Farmhouse
email: ursula@thatchamconnections.co.uk
Grazeley
Reading
RG7 1LG
www.thatchamconnections.co.uk