The Wokingham Paper, March 11, 2016 by The Wokingham Paper

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Friday, March 11, 2016 No. 47

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FAMILY

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Scouting for cakes

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TOWN CRIME WAVE: THIEVES HITTING OLDER SHOPPERS Warning after spate of distraction thefts

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THEWOKINGHAMPAPER Friday, March 11, 2016

FAMILY NOTICES v Deaths Hunt, Brenda. On February 19th at Exeter Hospice, Brenda aged 75 years. Dearly loved wife of Trevor and much loved mum of Ian. She will be sadly missed by all her family and friends. Funeral Service took place on March 4th. Donations in her memory for Hospiscare may be sent to Richard W. Gegg & Sons, Funeral Directors, 47 Rolle Street, Exmouth. EX8 2RS.

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FUNDRAISING

Enjoy a night at the races with bowls club RACE fans are being invited to a fun night out this Saturday. Farley Hill Bowls Club is organising a race meeting ahead of the new bowls season. Filmed horse races are shown on a big screen, and guests can place bets on up to eight races during the evening. It takes place in the Victory Hall in Church Road from 7pm. Tickets cost £4 and include a supper. For more details, log on to www.farleyhillbowlsclub.org.uk or call 01344 772130.

Bellringers Liz O’Brien, Peter Davenport, Chris Cole and Liz Davenport showed visitors the ropes at St Paul’s Church belltower on Saturday Picture: Phil Creighton

OPEN DAY

Now, that face rings a bell… bells and their history. Visitors who climbed the narrow spiral staircase were able to have a go with some handbells as well as seeing the church’s bells in action. The bell ringing team answered questions, showed how the bells work and took people up into the very top of the tower.

MEMBERS of a church’s bell ringing team had an appealing offering for Wokingham on Saturday when it held an open day. St Paul’s Church in Reading Road opened the door to its bell tower, giving the borough a rare opportunity to find out more about the church’s

CRIME

MUSIC

Appeal for witnesses over attempted theft

Town hall prepares for lunchtime concert

POLICE have launched an appeal to track down two men suspected of attempting to steal a bike. Last Thursday, the pair were spotted at Wokingham train station around 12.20pm. Witnesses told Thames Valley Police that the duo were unsuccessfully attempting to steal a blue and white Vertigo mountain bike from the cycle rack outside the station on Oxford Road. Now, police officers say they would like to locate the owner of the bike and also speak to anyone who may have witnessed this incident. If you have any information that could help, contact Thames Valley Police by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 43160063042.

THE CAMEO Singers will provide the next lunchtime concert at Wokingham’s Town Hall. The event takes place on Thursday, March 17 from noon. Entry to the hour-long show is free and includes light refreshments, but donations to Macmillan Cancer Support are welcomed. For more details, call 0118 974 0882.

JAZZ

Swing concert will help hospital appeal A JAZZ quartet will be performing a special charity concert next week. The smooth sounds and upbeat rhythms of the All Jazz Quartet will

be heard during the evening of swing, jazz and Latin beats, all in support of the Royal Berks Charity. The musical extravaganza will start at 7pm on Thursday, March 17 and is being held in the Technical Education Centre at the Royal Berkshire Hospital. Tickets cost just £5 per person and places are limited. For details call 0118 322 6969.

CONCERT

Choir want to sing you a story A CHOIR named after a road will be performing in Wokingham tomorrow night. The A440 Choir will be at All Saints Church in Wiltshire Road as part of its ongoing concert season. The choir’s work includes original cantatas that tell stories through choral music blended with other storytelling elements such as

WIN £200 FOR YOUR GROUP THE Wokingham Paper and TradeMark Windows have teamed up to present Community Cash Tokens. The scheme is simple – cut out the tokens we’ll print each week. Send them in to us, as many as you like, and once every two months we’ll pull one at random from the editor’s hat. One lucky group will win £200, courtesy of TradeMark Windows. The more tokens that you and your group send in, the more chance you have of your group being picked at random. The Community Cash Tokens are open to charities and other non-profit making groups within Wokingham borough and offer a great way of boosting your funds. We’re able to offer Community Cash Tokens thanks to the generosity of Mark

Ashwell, managing director of TradeMark Windows. The Wokingham Paper’s publisher Phil Creighton said: “The Community Cash Tokens were a hugely popular ingredient of The Wokingham Times, and thanks to Mark’s support for the community of Wokingham borough, we’re delighted to be able to bring them back. “Whatever your group, charity or good cause is, Community Cash Tokens offers your supporters a fun way of helping you raise funds and awareness of your cause. “Make sure you don’t miss an issue.” Send your tokens to: Community Cash Tokens, The Wokingham Paper, 231 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS. Please note, only original tokens can be accepted.

Video technology meant that guests could see what happens when the bells rotate. A steady stream of visitors took advantage of the event. The group meets on Tuesdays and welcomes visitors interested in learning the art of bellringing. For more details, call Ken Davenport on 0118 978 6554.

narration, visual presentation, or other non-choral arts. The concert takes places from 7.30pm and tickets cost £12. For more details, log on to www. wokinghamconcerts.co.uk

CLUB

Reserves in focus A TALK about the Loddon Nature Reserve will be the highlight of the next meeting of the Twyford & Ruscombe Horticultural Association. The group will welcome Danial Akam to their meeting on Thursday March 17, a staff member at Woolley Firs and specialises in local reserves. The meeting starts at 8pm at St Mary’s Church Centre, Station Road, Twyford. Entry for members is £2, and visitors pay £3. Light refreshments will be included. For more details visit www.trha.org. uk or call 0118 9320315.

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Friday, March 11, 2016 THEWOKINGHAMPAPER

PETS

CHARGE

Police called out to garden centre puppy protest

Drug copper axed by force

Protesters outside Ladds Garden Centre in Hare Hatch

By VIVIENNE JOHNSON vjohnson@wokinghampaper.co.uk POLICE were called after protesters turned up at a local garden centre. Last Saturday, a group of people held up banners and gave out leaflets outside Ladds Garden Centre, Hare Hatch, protesting about puppy farms. The centre is home to a pet shop at the centre of an internet petition, demanding that the borough council withdraws its licence to operate because protestors believe that dogs sold on site come from puppy farms, something that the store’s owners strongly refute. Protesters say that puppy farmed dogs are bred intensively with little or no regard to their health or welfare. The group claim that pet shops such as Linton’s Pet Store are part of the problem. One of the protesters, who wishes to remain anonymous, said: “We had 15 people there. They were all either local dog owners or people involved in animal welfare, to highlight the puppy farming trade through which Linton supplies its puppies. “All animal welfare and dog welfare organisations such as the RSPCA, Battersea and Dog's Trust condemn puppy farming.

“Even the Kennel Club says that you should always see a puppy with its mother to ensure good welfare standards. You cannot do this with Linton puppies because the mother is on a puppy farm in Wales.” However, Loridana Agius, co-owner of Linton’s said: “No one from the group of protesters has come to us, they didn’t speak to us. “They can do whatever they want because I am not doing anything wrong. I’m not doing anything illegal. I’m doing everything by the book. All our puppies come from licenced breeders who are themselves checked each year.” During the protest police were called to the site and the group was asked to move from the grass verge near the garden centre’s gates to the pavement on the other side of the road. And the protestors have vowed to keep on turning up. Julie, another campaigner, said: “Puppies should not be sold in pet shops. No small licenced breeder would sell to a pet shop, they don’t need to. We have nothing against the other traders [at Ladds] we only stand there because that’s where the puppies are. “We are going to demonstrate every Saturday until Linton’s stop selling puppies.”

John Redwood speaks at the Vote Leave launch Picture: Phil Creighton

CAMPAIGN

I’m leaving EU, says John ORGANISERS of a campaign to leave the European Union said that their launch event had been so successful they had to do it twice. On Saturday, Wokingham MP John Redwood spoke at a Vote Leave campaign event, explaining why he thought Britain should quit the European Union when it votes in the June referendum. Held at the Town Hall, the event saw campaigners from all political hues join forces to hear Mr Redwood speak, answer questions and enjoy some cakes. There was also a range of Vote Leave merchandise available for supporters to take with them including bags, pens and badges. Mr Redwood told The Wokingham Paper: “We had a full house just after 10am so I spoke at 10.15am, and then we had another fairly full house at 11am so I spoke again.

VOTE

DRIVING

A VOTE to cut the £30 a week Employment Support Allowance has been criticised by Wokingham’s Labour party. Earlier this week three of the borough’s four MPs all voted in favour of axing the payment made via disability benefits, despite warnings from charities that it would make life harder for disabled people already struggling to get by. The Labour party spokesperson, Andy Croy, said: “Why is John Redwood pushing people into poverty? “Apparently cutting £30 per week from the income of someone who is recovering from, say, the effects of a course of chemotherapy, will incentivise them to get out to work more quickly. “Mr Redwood has rejected the advice of MacMillan Cancer Support and other charities who work with the cancer patients and the long term ill. These groups called on the government to, at the very least, conduct an impact assessment on the health and financial effects of taking away £1,500 per year from a seriously ill person.”

MOTORISTS using the A329M face a summer of misery as another set of roadworks are being planned. Work is planned to repair and maintain the Loddon Viaduct, including replacing the bridge’s joints, installing new safety barriers and improving drainage. A new low-noise surface will be installed, which Wokingham Borough Council say will reduce noise heard by nearby residents. This is the second part of the major project – back in 2014, work was carried out on the eastbound side, affecting traffic heading towards Bracknell. This time, the work will see the westbound carriageway affected, meaning delays for motorists

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“Sky ran a live interview just after noon from the Town Hall, and took another recorded one which they used for the rest of the day. “The speech was based on the lines of argument I have set out recently on my website.” It was not the only campaign launch on Saturday. The Berkshire Stronger in Europe vote launched in Maidenhead, home to Twyford MP Theresa May. Stronger In Europe chairman, Matt Bezzant, said “This weeks launch is the culmination of months of hard work by our dedicated team of volunteers. I am positive that with the momentum gained from Saturday’s launch Berkshire will vote to protect British jobs, ensure international security and to remain in the European Union on June 23.” n Dr Phillip Lee’s view page 15

A POLICE officer found in possession of drugs at a nightclub has been dismissed from the force. Last week, Thames Valley Police axed PC Ryan Sproat after a public misconduct hearing. The officer, was based at Loddon Valley, was dismissed without notice in front of Assistant Chief Constable Christopher Shead on Tuesday, March 1, following a twoday hearing. PC Sproat was found to have breached the Standards of Professional Behaviour through discreditable conduct. The hearing heard how, on January 13 last year, a doorman at Tiger Tiger nightclub in Portsmouth, found PC Sprout taking what was later found to be a Class A drug. The Misconduct Panel heard evidence that PC Sproat had procured the drug MDMA, in exchange for drinks. Deputy Chief Constable, John Campbell, said; “PC Sproat’s actions were totally unacceptable as a serving officer. “Thames Valley Police officers are expected, even when off-duty, to uphold the highest of standards and taking Class A drugs falls well outside of those expected standards as you would expect. “All reports of misconduct are taken very seriously and will continue to be investigated thoroughly.”

CAMPAIGN

Matt’s alright for rogue traders talk A TV campaigner who tackles rogue traders for a living will be sharing his experiences at a special talk next week. Matt Allwright, who presents the Rogue Traders segment of BBC TV’s Watchdog, will be in Wargrave on Wednesday. He will be joined by officers from the Twyford neighbourhood policing team and representatives from Trading Standards and Corgi Technical Services. The event, which is open to all members of the local community, aims to raise awareness and offer advice on a range of issues including; cold calling, hard selling, postal scams and carbon monoxide poisoning. It will be held from 1pm to 3pm at Wargrave Bowls Club, East View Road, RG10 8BH. n Distraction thieves target elderly shoppers – Page 11

Roadworks planned for A329M

THURSDAYS

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heading towards Reading. The Council said that the work is planned to take place during the school holidays. It will start on July 22 and continue through to September 2, just in time for the start of the next academic year. For most motorists there will be when few problems: the westbound section of the viaduct will be worked on a contraflow on the eastbound will keep traffic moving both ways at all times. And traffic coming on to the A329M from Winnersh Triangle or Woodley will still be able to do so. The council said that the slip road from Bader Way on to the viaduct (towards Bracknell) will be open but down to one lane.

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Traffic hoping to get on to the A329M from Winnersh and heading to Reading will follow a diversion as this section is closed. Councillor John Kaiser, executive member for planning and highways at Wokingham Borough Council, said that the works are still being finalised. He told The Wokingham Paper: “We’re putting the finishing touches to our plans this summer for this essential and important project to upgrade and improve Loddon Viaduct. “This time we’re on the westbound side towards Reading and using similar traffic measures when we worked on the eastbound side two years ago, to keep vehicles moving; plus working on it during the school holidays when roads are quieter.”

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DRIVEWAYS &&LANDSCAPING DRIVEWAYS LANDSCAPING

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Wokingham a cleaner place. . GARDEN DRIVEWAYS & LANDSCAPING DRIVEWAYS LANDSCAPING A MAINTENANCE community&litter pick has been . PROFESSIONAL organised for next weekend (March 19 and DRIVEWAY CLEANING 20) – and you won’t have to go far to make a

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PATIOS & GATES TURFING areas acrossFENCING the borough to target their Mob: 07920 524500 . SHED . BLOCK-PAVING clean-up effort. And as one will be on your BASES wokinghamdriveways@gmail.com doorstep, andEmail: the times of the litter picks Independent financial advice . Independent financial advice REPAIRS OR DRIVE vary, there are few excuses for notEXTENSIONS doing 436 Finchampstead Road | Wokingham | Berks | RG40 3RB BLINDS AND AWNINGS . GARDEN MAINTENANCE yourfuture bit. secure The Area’s Leading Supplier &for Installer ofa Window Dressings for a secure future The event – organised by Wokingham Serving the Local Community for 10 Years . PROFESSIONAL DRIVEWAY Borough Council alongside neighbourhoodCLEANING WOKINGHAM

Furniture & Bedding Superstore owner Andy Burgess is holding a huge retirement sale. Picture: Steve Smyth

RETAIL

Deals galore at furniture sale

action groups, town and parish councils, Friday, a group of councillors from across Berkshire joined forces to help Clean For The Queen. DRIVEWAYS &&LANDSCAPING DRIVEWAYS LANDSCAPING . groups nds . Curtains . Wood Venetian “There’s plenty of stock, but once it’s 0118 973 3414 07920 524 Last 500 ONE of the giants of Wokingham’s retail resident and environmental – Councillor Angus Ross from Wokingham Borough Council (above second left) joined staff for a litter critical illness & make income plansand scene is. preparing to step after 40 gone, it’s gone.Life It willassurance, be a case of firstaims to the protection borough a cleaner . Vision Roman . down Awnings collection around the Smallmead Household Waste Recycling Centre in Island Road, Reading. He Life assurance, critical illness & income protection plans

Independent Independent financial financial advice advice for a secure future for a secure future

years in the business.

come, first served. brighter place to andhome create a sense said: “Whilst we do all we can to ensure a clean environment for visitors to Smallmead, we do want Financial reviews in the convenience oflive your Financial reviews in the convenience your home Sarin “We will also be taking special orders, 0118 9733414 of .Tony community civic pride as & well asTel: raise .of . TURFING to spread the message to reduce the wanton throwing out of litter by vehicle drivers and walkers. PATIOS FENCING GATES Investments, & child trust that funds Mob: 07920 524500 and Bedding Superstore, will today launch people can order, but maybe notsavings at the awareness litter is unacceptable. Investments, savings & child trust funds So, having the surrounds of Smallmead clear of litter sends out a good message.” . SHED . BLOCK-PAVING BASES Email: a grand retirement sale from the Molly very, very low clearance prices.fund performance With profits Last.analysis year, more thanwokinghamdriveways@gmail.com 800 bags of rubbish With profits fund performance analysis REPAIRS OR DRIVE EXTENSIONS 436 Finchampstead Road | Wokingham | Berks | RG40 3RB Millars Lane base. Doors open for the sale “We still have free local delivery for up parks, spots, community areas Haddon Drive Swallowfield Annuities & open marketfrom options . beauty Conservatory Blinds . Curtains Wood Venetian GARDEN MAINTENANCE & open marketand options at 10am. to 30.miles. ” Annuities If you want to join in, turn up on the day or contact village centres were collected. The Saturday 19 March – 10am to 4pm . PROFESSIONAL Personal & group pensions Life rubbish assurance, critical illness & income protection plans Shelagh Flower on 07879 330 403 or Woodley More than £528,000 of stock. isVision being The Burgess’ business has been a key CLEANING varied from the DRIVEWAY usual drink cans, Roller . Vertical . Roman . Awnings Life assurance, critical illness & income protection plans Personal & group pensions Meet in Davis Room, Swallowfield Parish Hall – at the rear Town Council 0118 969 0356 sold off at reduced prices – and as Mr place for people to buy furtuniture from crisp packets and car tyres to the Financial reviews in the convenience of more your home . . Inheritance Tax planning of the building. Refreshments provided wokinghamdriveways@googlemail.com wokinghamdriveways.co.uk For all your Internal & External Shading Requirements Financial reviews the convenience of your524 home500 0118 in973 3414 07920 Inheritance Tax Burgess is leaving the business, everything over the past four decades, but nowplanning they’re unusual including rocking Investments, savings & a child trusthorse, funds a signed If you want to join in contact Nigel Adams on 0118 988 Wokingham Town Centre Investments, savings & child trust funds ISAs & ISA/PEP must go. looking forward to stepping down.transfers full wine bottles, analysis a rubber dinghy, ISAs & ISA/PEP transfers 4661 or email nigelcadams@gmail.com Withfootball, profits fund performance Independent financial advice With profits fund performance analysis Saturday 19 March 10am to noon Independent He told The Wokingham Paper: “We’re “We’re stopping because of our age,” tractor seat, electric pianofinancial and a deep fat advice Annuities & open market options Meeting at Wokingham Town Hall www.blindsandawnings.org for a secure future & open market options selling all our existing stock. Mr Burgess said of himself and his wife Annuities Crazies Hill fryer. for a secure future Refreshments provided Personal & group pensions “We’re in negotiations with another Debbie.range “We’re both overthe 60. Cllr Personal & Mark groupAshwell, pensionschairman of amenities Saturday 19 March – 10.30am To see the quality and excellent visit If you want to join in, turn up on the day or contact . Inheritance Tax planning Blinds . Curtains . Wood wokinghamdriveways.co.uk company to take over the store,Conservatory but they “I will certainly miss this, it’sVenetian been a wokinghamdriveways@googlemail.com for Wokingham Town Council, is supporting Meet at The Horns Inn, Crazies Hill Inheritance Tax planning Mark Ashwell on 07976 641 687 LARGEST SHOWROOM in the area: Life assurance, critical illness & income protection plans Vision .for Roman . Awnings will want to bring their own stock Roller in, so all. Vertical family. business 40 years but we’re ISAsthe & ISA/PEP transfers initiative. Life assurance, critical & income protection Authorised andillness regulated by theplans FSA If you want to join in, turn up on the day or contact Rita ISAs & ISA/PEP transfers Authorised and regulated by the FSA Financial reviews in the convenience of your home McLaughlin Pugh on 0118 940 1099 or email rita. Sandhurst, GU47to 9BH For all your Internal & External Shading Requirements Financial reviews in the convenience of your home existing 90 stockYorktown must be sold. Road, looking forward pastures new. We’re He said: “This has always been a success Wokingham Without Investments, savings & child trust funds clive@btinternet.com Investments, & child trust funds “The price of some items means they’re planning to take it easy and play a bit more in the past. Itsavings is happening over the whole of Saturday 19 March 10am With profits fund performance analysis profits fund performance analysis a steal.” golf!” theWith Wokingham borough, so just make sure Annuities & open market options Meet at Wokingham Without Parish Council office, Winnersh www.blindsandawnings.org Annuities & open market options The range includes popular names The sale starts from 10am today. For youPersonal contribute You could do & groupsomewhere. pensions Old Wokingham Road, Wokingham Without the FSA Personal & group pensionsAuthorised and regulated by To see the quality and excellent range visit the Sunday 20 March 2016 – 11am to approximately 12.30pm and regulated by the FSA such as G-Plan, Sealey, Parker Knoll and more details, call 0118 979 0600 or log on Saturday and Sunday.” . wokinghamdriveways.co.uk Inheritance Tax planning Authorised If you want to join in, turn up on the day or contact wokinghamdriveways@googlemail.com Inheritance Tax planning Meet at St Mary's Church, Church Close, Winnersh LARGEST SHOWROOM in the area: Slumberland. to www.furnituresuperstore.co.uk ISAs & ISA/PEP transfers Everyone who wants to smarten up the admin@wokinghamwithoutparishcouncil.gov.uk ISAs &320430 ISA/PEP transfers Tel/Fax 01344 466173 Mobile 07768 Email tony@independent-ifa.co.uk Refreshments (tea and biscuits) will be provided after the 90 Yorktown Road, Sandhurst, GU47 9BH Mobiletown Tel/Fax 01344 466173 07768 320430 Email centre should betony@independent-ifa.co.uk outside the town hall litter pick. If you want to join in, turn up on the day Address 5 The Paddock, Crowthorne, Berkshire RG45 6HS Evendons Address 5 The Paddock, Crowthorne, Berkshire RG45 6HS on information centre at 10am Saturday. The Tony Welsh of Susan Fleck Associates Ltd or contact Tony of until Susan Fleck Associates LtdClive Hudson on 0118 978 0244 or email litterWelsh pick will run noon and the town Saturday 19 March 10am to 12 noon clerk@winnersh.gov.uk Authorised regulated by the FSA Tel/Fax 01344 466173 Mobile 07768 320430and Email tony@independent-ifa.co.uk Authorised regulated FSA Meet at Evendons School, Evendons Lane, Tel/Fax 01344 402 466173 07768 320430and Email tony@independent-ifa.co.uk council will beMobile providing refreshments to by the Tel 0118 07768 320430 Address 5 The Paddock,8978 Crowthorne,Mobile Berkshire RG45 6HS Wokingham. If you want to join in, turn up on the Addressfuel 5 The Paddock, Crowthorne, Berkshire RG45 6HS Norreys and Wescott the workers. Email tony@tonywelshifa.co.uk day or contact ken_rowlands1946@hotmail.co.uk Anti-rubbish group the Litter Heroes will Saturday 19 March 2016 – 10am to noon Tony Welsh of Susan Fleck Associates Ltd Independent Financial Adviser Tony Welsh of Susan Fleck Associates Ltd or 07795 082 919 beTel/Fax putting its strength behind the town Meeting at Norreys Church, Norreys Avenue 01344 466173 Mobile 07768 320430 Email tony@independent-ifa.co.uk Tel/Fax 01344 402 466173 Mobile 07768 320430 Email tony@independent-ifa.co.uk Tel 0118 07768 320430 Refreshments provided. If you want to join in, turn centre effort. Address 5 The Paddock,8978 Crowthorne,Mobile Berkshire RG45 6HS Address 5 The Paddock, Crowthorne, Berkshire RG45 6HS Woosehill up on the day or contact Marian Robertson on The full list of Wokingham litter picks Email tony@tonywelshifa.co.uk Saturday 19 March – 10am Robertson_Marian@btopenworld.com and times follows – litter pickers and safety Meeting at Morrisons bottle bank. If you want to join vests will be provided, but make sure you in, turn up or call Bren Stacey on 0118 978 7897 Barkham Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority are dressed for the day’s weather and have Susan Fleck Associates Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority, registration no. 447018 Sunday 20 March – 9.30am to 12.30pm Susan Fleck Associates Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority, registration no. 447018 shoes and gloves. Head Office: Granville House, Granville Road,sturdy Maidstone, Kentand ME14 2BJ Authorised regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Registration Number AJW00121 Shinfield Parish Susan Fleck Maidstone, Associates LtdKent is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority, registration no. 447018 Head Office: Granville House, Granville Road, ME14 2BJ Meet at Barkham Village Hall car park Susan Fleck Associates Ltd is authorised and regulated byKent the Financial Head Office: House, Granville Road, Maidstone, ME14 2BJServices Authority, registration no. 447018 nGranville Facebook.com/WokinghamLitterHeroes Registration Number AJW00121 Head Office: Granville House, Granville Road, Maidstone, Kent ME14 2BJ Sunday 20 March 11.15am onwards

& External Shading Requirements Andy Burgess, who runs the Furniture

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y and excellent range visit the SHOWROOM in the area: oad, Sandhurst, GU47 9BH

Tony Welsh

Tony Welsh Fleck Ltd Independent Financial Adviser Tony Welsh of of Susan Susan Fleck Associates Associates Ltd Tel 0118 402 8978 Mobile 07768 320430 Independent Financial Adviser Email tony@tonywelshifa.co.uk

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Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority

Refreshments provided If you want to join in, turn up on the day or contact Judith Neuhofer on 0118 977 2857

Susan Fleck Associates Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority, registration no. 447018 Susan Fleck Associates Ltd is authorised and regulated byKent the Financial Head Office: Granville House, Granville Road, Maidstone, ME14 2BJServices Authority, registration no. 447018 Registration Number AJW00121 Head Office: Granville House, Granville Road, Maidstone, Kent ME14 2BJ

Charvil

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2pm to 4pm Meet at Interpretation Centre, Instow Road Refreshments provided If you want to join in, turn up on the day or contact grahamehawker@hotmail.com

Twyford and Ruscombe Saturday 19 March 2016 – 10am Meet at Loddon Hall car park, Loddon Hall Road If you want to join in, turn up on the day or contact Bridget Ditcham at b.ditcham@ntlworld.com

Woodley Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 March – 10am to noon Meet at Woodford Park Leisure Centre,

Meeting at Shinfield Parish Hall Refreshments provided. If you want to join in, turn up on the day or contact Katy on 0118 988 8220

Finchampstead Saturday 19 March and Sunday 20 March from 9.30am Meeting at various locations Refreshments provided at some locations If you want to join in, just turn up on the day or contact Richard on 0118 973 2364

Hurst Saturday 19 March – 9am Meet at Hurst Village Hall If you want to join in, turn up on the day or contact clerk@hurstpc.org.uk

Wargrave Saturday 19 March – 9am to noon Meeting at War memorial, Mill Green Apples for the children. If you want to join in, turn up on the day or contact Marion Pope at Wargrave Parish Council on 0118 940 3533

Shinfield Rise Saturday 19 March 10.30am to 1.30pm Meeting at The Community Flat, 36 Frensham Green. Refreshments provided If you want to join in, turn up on the day or call Cherish Risi-Elford on 07885 983 396

SELLING OUT TO THE BARE WALLS

37 Molly Millars Lane, Wokingham, Berkshire RG41 2RU. Telephone: 0118 979 0600 www.furnituresuperstore.co.uk

OUR STORE WILL BE CLOSED TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC UNTIL 10AM ON FRIDAY 11TH MARCH TO MARK DOWN PRICES!!

THE GREAT £528,000

RETIREMENT SALE

GREAT SALE DAYS!

10.00AM-8.00PM FRIDAY 11TH MAR SATURDAY 12TH MAR 9.00AM-5.00PM SUNDAY 13TH MAR 10.00AM-4.00PM TERMS OF SALE

- USE CASH, DEBIT CARD, OR CREDIT CARDS. - DELIVERY AVAILABLE. - EVERY ITEM MARKED DOWN ON SALE TAGS. - YOUR SATISFACTION IS OUR GOAL.

THE REASON FOR THIS GREAT SALE

After 40 years, myself and my wife Debbie will be retiring at the end of May to focus on other interests. We are currently in talks to sell the business on and continue the good name that Furniture & Bedding Superstore has built up over the past 40 years. Further communication will be sent in due course. However we must sell off all our displays of furniture and bedding, including Suites, Sofas, Armchairs, Recliners, Divan Sets, Mattresses, Bedroom Furniture, Cabinets, Dining Tables, Chairs, Occasional Furniture, Pictures, Lamps, Mirrors and Accessories and much more. OUR STORE WILL BE CLOSED TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC UNTIL 10AM ON FRIDAY 11TH MARCH TO MARK DOWN PRICES on every floor sample, every one-of-a-kind, every odds-and-ends-item. Over £528,000 of famous name merchandise by G-Plan, Parker Knoll, Ercol, Stressless, Tempur, Sealy and Slumberland will be sold at drastic sale prices. Special prices will also be given on all customer special orders. Nothing will be held back and we will not be undersold by anyone. First come, first served... you will not be disappointed. We will open to the general public on Friday 11th March at 10am. Andy Burgess - Furniture & Bedding Superstore

EVERYTHING DRAMATICALLY REDUCED

G PLAN KEATES SUITE 3 SEATER, 2 SEATER, ELECTRIC RECLINER CHAIR AND STOOL RRP £4373 NOW HALF PRICE £2186

TEMPUR KINGSIZE 21CM MATTRESS RRP £2299 NOW HALF PRICE £1149

PARKER KNOLL TRADITIONAL WING CHAIR RRP £932 NOW HALF PRICE £466

STRESSLESS HIGH BACK CREAM LEATHER SOFA RRP £3289 HALF PRICE £1644

BEDROOM CHEST OF DRAWERS TALL WITH 5 DRAWERS RRP £332 NOW HALF PRICE £166

STRESSLESS DIPLOMAT SWIVEL RECLINER AND STOOL RRP £1200 NOW HALF PRICE £600

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SALE BEGINS FRIDAY 11TH MARCH AT 10AM ALL ITEMS SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY

6 | NEWS

To advertise email advertising@wokinghampaper.co.uk

CRIME 1

THEWOKINGHAMPAPER Friday, March 11, 2016

COURSE

Teens’ chance to test drive driving

Break-in sees car windscreen smashed THE rear windscreen of a car was smashed last weekend. Thames Valley Police report that a car parked in Comet Way, Woodley was targeted. The incident took place in the Woodley street sometime overnight from Saturday, March 5 to Sunday, March 6. Police are keen to find more information about the incident. If you have any information call 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

CRIME 2

Chainsaw snatched A MAN was seen breaking into a car and stealing a chainsaw last month. The crime, which has only just been reported, took place in Martineau Lane in Hurst around 12.25am on February 3. Thames Valley Police said that a man was seen with a metal pole smashing the rear offside passenger window of a parked vehicle. He is then alleged to have reached in and stole a chainsaw before driving off in another car. If you have any information call 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

By JOHN WAKEFIELD news@wokinghampaper.co.uk

Members of the 1st Emmbrook Scouts with some of the cakes on sale. Our front page picture shows sister and brother Alice and Jack Meldrum eyeing up some cupcakes. Pictures: Phil Creighton

CHARITY

Scouts prepared to serve tea & cake THERE were cakes galore at Emmbrook Village Hall on Saturday thanks to a massive tea party. Members of the 1st Emmbrook Scouts held its first-ever Tea Prepared event, offering tea, cakes and fun to visitors. The event raised money for

the troops activities and also Dementia UK. Clare Meldrum, who helped organise the event, said: “We thought it was a worthy cause to support. “Parents made cakes – one cake has a Scouting badge on and the red velvet cake has been very popular.”

TEENAGERS wanting the right start to their life behind the wheel are invited to a free event next month. Wokingham Borough Council is bringing back its popular pre-driver training sessions to Woodley – so far, it has helped more than 1,000 young people gain skills and information necessary for a safe and enjoyable motoring life. The Drive Start pre-driver training includes up-to-date, essential car related information from the Drive Start website, designed for young motorists. Taking place at Woodley Airfield Youth Centre, Hurricane Way, the course runs between 9.15am and 4pm on Thursday, April 7, and covers a range of topics including: n Advice on buying a second-hand car n Post-accident first aid n Cause and effect of traffic accidents

n Advice on legal requirements n Hazards facing new drivers There will also be the chance for young people on the course to get behind the wheel for the first time on a taster driving lesson with a qualified instructor. The event is organised by the borough council’s road safety team and will be run by Berkshire Youth, with presentations from Thames Valley Police, Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service and the Safer Roads team with practical driving lessons. Although mainly for 16- and 17-year-olds, anyone aged between 15 and 19 can attend the workshop by booking a free place. The road safety team will also provide copies of essential guides for new drivers with other freebies at the event. For an application form for the course contact Julie Pillai, road safety officer, on 0118 974 6387.

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NEWS | 7

To advertise call 0118 328 2959

Friday, March 11, 2016 THEWOKINGHAMPAPER

BARKHAM

WARNING

Fears trees felling will lead to homes By VIVIENNE JOHNSON vjohnson@wokinghampaper.co.uk A COMPANY that felled trees in a Barkham copse insist they have done everything by the book, despite allegations that the work was carried out in nesting season. Residents in The Shires contacted The Wokingham Paper concerned that a pocket of land is being prepared for housing. Jill Allen, whose garden backs on to the affected area, said: “We are aware that Wokingham Borough Council (WBC) have to build 865 houses a year for the next 20 years, there is so much building going on but it’s all being done in big lumps. “That’s fair enough but now builders are taking away copses with a real impact on wildlife and the health of Wokingham residents. “The tree surgeons were cutting trees in May, which is illegal because of nesting birds. The tree surgeons said they were cutting down diseased trees but [we believe] none of those trees were diseased. Mrs Allen’s husband Tony said: “The trees started to be felled in May 2015. We contacted the Forestry Commission who told us that they haven’t issued anyone with a felling licence for that land. “Westbuild Homes own the land. They are using an exemption that the Forestry Commission have to cut down a small

Doorstep traders spotted

amount of trees every three months. We think they have chopped down more than they should have.” The land has been owned for 30 years by Westbuild Homes of Padworth Common when it built The Shires and the company said that during its recent work, it has been complying with all guidelines necessary . Guy West, managing director of Westbuild Homes, said: “The necessary ecological and arboricultural surveys were undertaken, then felling within the permissible guidelines, in the relevant calendar quarters. “Most in the neighbourhood know that the council allocated it as a housing site in February 2014, suitable for five houses, with their reference SAL03. “While the land is allocated for five houses, we are also considering four. “We had plans to develop in the longer run, but may advance this, if national and council planning policies permit.” A Forestry Commission spokesperson said: “We are investigating reports of suspected unlicensed tree felling on land north of The Shires, Wokingham, including measuring the felled trees. The landowner has been advised not to fell any more trees, and a decision on enforcement action will be made by our National Office for England.” WBC has put a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) on the surviving trees and hedges in the area.

Wokingham fire fighter Neil Young helps young Rhys James (3) to join in with their car wash at Wokingham Fire Station. Picture: Steve Smyth

CHARITY

Firefighters’ wash and brush up FIREFIGHTERS in Wokingham used plenty of water on Saturday – but they weren’t putting out a fire. The Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service (RBFRS) held a charity car wash at its Wokingham fire station, giving drivers the opportunity to make their vehicle sparkle. Money raised from the event went to The Fire Fighters Charity, which provides a range of services for fire service personnel and their families, including therapy and rehabilitation for injured firefighters. Sarah Lewis, RBFRS’ volunteer charity coordinator, said: “A big thank you to everyone

who came along to Wokingham Fire Station’s charity car wash event on Saturday. “It was fantastic to see the support from the local community and it was topped off by raising over £500 for some really deserving causes. “We are also going to be fundraising this Saturday at Bracknell Fire Station for The Fire Fighters Charity, so if your car is in need of a good clean then why not donate to a great cause at the same time and join us in Downshire Way between 10am and 4pm.”

REPORTS of doorstep traders were received in Woodley earlier this week. Thames Valley Police said that a resident in Haddon Drive in Woodley had some work carried out to a driveway for an agreed sum. They allege that the next day the traders returned asking for double the amount. The two men involved are descbried as Irish and driving a white truck. Thames Valley Police also said that the men were seen in Kerris Way, Lower Earley on Wednesday. If you think a neighbour, friend or relative is having work done and you are concerned that they may be victims of unethical traders please contact either the police on 101 or Trading Standards on 01635 519930.

POLITICS

Emmbrook flooding fixed

FLOODING issues on Emmbrook Road appear to have been solved. Two Conservative councillors for Emmbrook – borough councillor UllaKarin Clark and town councillor Sanjay Odedra – said that their campaigning has resulted in Thames Water carrying out a thorough clean of the sewer and a sewer root cut to prevent futue flooding. Despite the recent heavy rain, the road has remained clear of flooding. Previously, water had collected under the bridge, creating a ford for people to drive through. The two councillors say they will continue to monitor the road but are hopeful the problem has now been solved. Cllr Clark said: “After months of significant flooding problems, progress has been made to resolve the issue. We are grateful to Thames Water for responding to our calls to address the problem.”

Parcel T, Phase Two at Arborfield Green

A Disability Awareness Workshop was held at St Crispin’s School for Year Seven pupils Pictures: Steve Smyth

TRAINING

Pupils learn how to listen at disability workshop PUPILS at a Wokingham school have had a life lesson in understanding those with learning difficulties, writes Sally Bryant. Year Seven children at St Crispin’s in London Road have benefited from a series of thoughtprovoking workshops. Listen to Us, the training group of the charity CLASP – Caring Listening and Supporting Partnership – steered seven sessions, with support from Wokingham Borough Council community warden Zoran Matic. It is hoped the disability awareness workshops will be seen

as a pilot and other local schools will benefit from similar schemes. Mr Zoran said: “It was all about learning difficulties, mainly trying to show the kids that some people may need a little help, that there are people who may have all sorts of problems. “We wanted to show them they are people with feelings as well. “We wanted to show [the pupils] there are words that are really not nice and about bullying.” The workshops were also

supported by community police support officers, who spoke about hate crime. Mr Zoran said: “We have had nothing but fantastic feedback from pupils and teachers. Everything has been really appreciative and everyone was really focused. “ Anna Merrygold, head of curriculum at St Crispin’s, told The Wokingham Paper: “We were thrilled to be able to offer the opportunity to our young pupils. “It is incredibly important that students are aware of learning disabilities as they will encounter them on a daily basis. CLASP gave a very interesting presentation, which our students greatly enjoyed and benefited from.”

Have Your Say Crest Nicholson are holding a Public Consultation event for residents to view and comment on the detailed proposals for the second phase to come forward at Arborfield Green, Parcel T.

Where: Garrison Community Centre, Sheerlands Road, Arborfield, RG2 9ND When: Saturday 19th March 1pm-5pm Members of the project team will be on hand to answer any questions or queries you may have, and for more information, please contact: Email: stevec@curtinandco.com Telephone: 020 7399 2295

8 | NEWS

Parish noticeboard Monday, March 14 Wokingham Without Parish Council – Annual parish meeting and grant awards. 7.30pm. Howard Palmer Room, St Sebastian’s Hall, Nine Mile Ride RG40 3BA Wokingham Town Council Arts and Culture meeting. 7.30pm. Wokingham Town Hall, Market Place, Wokingham

Tuesday, March 15 Wokingham Borough Council Council question and motion deadline. 10am. Civic Office, Shute End, Wokingham RG40 1BN Arborfield Parish Full Council Meeting. 7.30pm. The Pavilion, Arborfield Park, Swallowfield Road Wokingham Town Council Mayoral Selection. 7pm. Wokingham Town Hall, Market Place, Wokingham Wokingham Town Council Finance & Personnel. 7.30pm. Wokingham Town Hall, Market Place. Woodley Town Council Plans Meeting. 7.45pm. The Oakwood Centre, Headley Road, Woodley, RG5 4JZ

Wednesday, March 16 Wokingham Borough Council Schools Forum. 9am. Civic Office, Shute End, Wokingham RG40 1BN Wokingham Borough Council Standards Committee. 7pm. Shute End, Wokingham RG40 1BN Finchampstead Rights of Way Meeting. 7.30pm. California Ratepayers Hall, Finchampstead

Thursday, March 17 Finchampstead Main Council Meeting. 7.30pm. Memorial Hall, The Village, Finchampstead RG40 4JU

Friday, March 18 Wokingham Borough Council Executive question deadline. 10am. Civic Office, Shute End, Wokingham RG40 1BN

Saturday, March 19 Wokingham Town Council surgery. 10am. Wokingham Town Hall, Market Place, Wokingham

To advertise email advertising@wokinghampaper.co.uk A MAN from Woodley has been fined £140 for speeding. John Robert Ashcroft, 56, of Drovers Way, denied driving at 85mph in a 50mph zone speed limit on the A4 Bath Road in Charvil on April 19 last year, when he appeared at Reading Magistrates’ Court on October 21. In his absence, he was proved guilty on December 23, and sentenced at the same court on January 20. Mr Ashcroft was fined £140, ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £20, and disqualified from driving for 14 days. A SHINFIELD woman has pleaded guilty to driving while over the alcohol limit. Cheryl Lisa Christie, 29, of Rossby, appeared at Reading Magistrates’ Court on January 22 where she admitted driving while over the alcohol limit on August 5. Miss Christie was ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £60 and costs of £85, and banned from driving for two years. A MAN from Earley has been fined £660 for driving a vehicle that had been declared off the road. David James, 51, of Mays Lane, was found to have driven a Mercedes E220 on Wokingham Road having made a declaration or statement under the Road Vehicles (Statutory Off-Road Notification) Regulations 1997 on October 23, despite the previous licence expiring on January 31 2014. Mr James, who was not present for the hearing at Reading Magistrates’ Court on January 22, was fined £660, ordered to pay £165 in compensation and £90 in costs.

THEWOKINGHAMPAPER Friday, March 11, 2016

From the courts

A WOMAN from Woodley has been fined £220 for failing to tax her vehicle. Amy Samantha Tweddle, 28, of Elmwood Close, was fined £220, and ordered to pay compensation of £21.67 and costs of £90 by Reading Magistrates’ Court on January 22. The charge related to an incident on October 15 when Miss Tweddle kept a Fiat 500 Sport on Hawthorn Way in Sonning, despite the tax expiring on February 28. Miss Tweddle was not present for the hearing. A WOMAN from Wokingham is due to appear in court charged with two counts of owning a dangerous dog. Sharni Thompson, of Ashridge

Road, denies the charge that Lexi, a Staffordshire/Whippet cross, is dangerous and not kept under proper control. The complainants, whose names have not been released, seek an order that the dog be kept under proper control or destroyed, in accordance with section 2 of the Dogs Act 1871. Ms Thompson will appear at Reading Magistrates’ Court on April 19 for the trial. AN 18-year-old man from Twyford has pleaded guilty to harassment and possessing a plastic knife in a public place. Jordan Ryan Thomas Blyth, of Broad

Hinton, was handed a conditional discharge for 12 months and a restraining order for three years by Reading Magistrates’ Court on January 25. The charges relate to incidents which took place on December 27 and January 23 in Reading. A MAN from Wokingham has pleaded guilty to two charges of theft. Scott Philip Stiller, 27, of Nine Mile Ride appeared at Reading Magistrates’ Court on January 26 where he admitted stealing a pair of mens leather gloves from Marks and Spencer in Peach Street on October 24, and stealing three Seagate Hard Drives and one Western Digital Hard Drive, to the value of £414.96, from Maplin in The Peel Centre, Bracknell on October 26. Mr Stiller was ordered to pay compensation of £300, a victim surcharge of £60 and costs of £85. He was also handed a community order to participate in a rehabilitation programme. A MAN from Twyford is due to appear in court charged with one charge of racially or religiously aggravated common assault, and one charge of assault. Mark Eaton, 51, London Road, appeared at Reading Magistrates’ Court on January 27 having previously pleaded not guilty to both charges. He was remanded on unconditional bail until April 7 to appear at East Berkshire Magistrates’ Court in Maidenhead.

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10 | BUSINESS

To advertise email advertising@wokinghampaper.co.uk

Business

Got a business story? Email news@wokingham paper.co.uk. or write to The Wokingham Paper, Crown House, 231 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS

INSIGHT

VISIT

FSB benefits in the spotlight at seminar

Every dog has their day

A SEMINAR being held next Monday aims to help people make the most of their Federation of Small Businesses membership. Organisers say that members get a lot when they join up, and want to ensure that businesses get the most from their membership. Benefits include legal, tax and employment helplines, a legal documents store, health and safety advice, occupation health support. There is also a range of advice that includes Workplace Pensions tailored for those businesses employing only one or two people. The event is free to attend and includes a light buffet and refreshments. It takes place from 7pm on Monday at the Coppid Beech hotel, John Nike Way in Bracknell. n For more details, call 0808 202 0888 or log on to www.fsb.org.uk/regions/thames-valley

DATE

Give us a boring budget! A BODY that works with chartered accountants is calling on George Osbourne to give a boring budget next Wednesday. ACCA (the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) is urging the Chancellor to break from his usual delivery and keep the steady pace of recovery going. The group said the Chancellor should eschew his usual trick of producing a rabbit out of the hat moment when he delivers his annual budget. Chas Roy-Chowdhury, ACCA head of taxation, said: “Mr Osborne is six years into his tenure as Chancellor; he’s set in motion many mechanisms to improve the UK economy for both individuals and businesses. He should not risk that progress by chasing headlines in Thursday’s papers. “We already have a review of business taxes and business rates underway, as well as a review of the entire tax system by the OTS (Office of Tax Simplification). “During his time at No.11 Downing Street he’s made many pledges to make the tax system simpler, now he has the chance to make good on those promises. Let the reviews happen and take time to study the recommendations.”

THEWOKINGHAMPAPER Friday, March 11, 2016

Woody enjoys his shower, given to him by borough mayor Cllr Parry Batth and watched by Steph Pateman Picture: Phil Creighton

WOODY the dog had an extra special visit to a Wokingham pet shop last week. Not only was he the first customer to take advantage of a new grooming salon, he was given a shampoo and rinse by the borough’s mayor. Councillor Parry Batth dropped into the Easthampstead Road branch of Pets at Home, which is celebrating after an extensive refurbishment. The store now boasts a new Groom Room, offering owners an opportunity to pamper their pets with a range of treatments, including full grooming, bath and blow dry, and nail clipping. The store will also open a Vets4Pets practice in the next few weeks. The new fully equipped surgery, which will house an operating theatre, digital X-ray facilities, in-house laboratory and a hospital ward providing a wide range of treatments from health checks to emergency operations. Store manager, Ally Slade, said: “Our mission is to ensure pets live a happy and healthy life. The grooming salon and vet practice means our customers will now find everything they need to care for their pets under one roof.”

RESEARCH

Young Tom is helping Britain prosper By JOHN WAKEFIELD news@wokinghampaper.co.uk A YOUNG banker from Yateley is being celebrated as one of the people who is helping the country to prosper. Earlier this week, Lloyds Banking Group revealed is latest Helping Britain Prosper plan, following on from a similar initiative two years ago. It focuses on the key social and economic challenges facing the South East and Britain today, delivering support to communities and aims to ensure continued benefit to one-infour first-time buyers and one-in-five start-up businesses. Lloyds said that the 2014 plan

was ground-breaking and the first of its kind, as its targets were independently verified. Its new plan restates the Group’s commitment to helping Britain and the South East prosper by focusing its efforts on three key areas – support to people, business and communities – so that it can really help to address the most pressing issues for the UK. One of the people that has helped the deliver on the plan is Tom, 24 and from Yateley. He is a Lloyds Bank Community Bank apprentice and joined the bank after finishing school, having decided

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Cost of working is rising The Streets of Wokingham (IN Need) Have you seen the Homeless and Needy Within the streets of Wokingham “Kicking up the papers with their worn out shoes” Why is this happening to many people in our own town We need to help and provide care, shelter and a new life Join Wokingham IN Need and make a difference How can you help us to help those in need And provide the love and help they require “Let us take you by the hand And lead you through the streets of Wokingham” Wokingham IN Need will show you how to make a difference. Contact Us Now: wokinghaminneed@gmail.com

THE COST of working has risen 27% according to new research released last week. Across the country, work-related expenses including childcare, commuting, work clothes and computer equipment cost the average full-time employee £3,405 per year, compared with £3,218 in the previous year and £2,681 in 2013 – up 6% from 2014 and 27% since 2013. The research, from Santander Credit Cards, reveals that up to 16% of a full-time workers net income is just work costs with commuting being the biggest cost. To get to work by public transport, full-time employees have to pay an average of £1,357 a year, while motorists spend £1,238 a year getting to work, with £922 spent on fuel, £180 to park their car and £136 on tolls/congestion, up more than £50. Childcare is also a substantial cost, with the average outlay now £960. One in four people pay more than four times the average – as much as £3,910 a year. Santander Credit Cards surveyed workers to see how much they spend on all work-related products and services they can’t claim back, and found the total amount spent has increased significantly over the past couple of years.

that full-time education was not for him. Having started as a Customer Service Assistant, Tom (pictured inset) signed up to the Advanced (Level 3) Apprenticeship in Providing Financial Services and has now progressed to being a branch manager. He believes that the apprenticeship is one of the best things he’s ever done, helping to develop his confidence and increase his experience, with lots of support from his colleagues along the way. Jen Tippin, Group Ambassador for the South East, Lloyds Banking Group said: “We are proud of the achievements in the Helping Britain

Prosper Plan to date but know that we can and must do more. We have already seen the impact that the Plan is having in the South East in helping the people, businesses and communities of this region to prosper. “By ensuring that we deliver our commitments on a local level, we know that in the South East we can help lead the way in making Britain’s economy more productive, agile and sustainable.” The plan also aims to help good causes. Last year, more than £5 million was raised for BBC Children in Need (including Matched Giving). In 2016, the Group has a target to support 2,500 charities through a £100 million commitment. n To see the plan, visit www. lloydsbankinggroup.com/prosperplan

FESTIVAL

Business celebration helps Lilly-May fund

Claire Page receives a donation from the Festival of Business Woodley from chair Jacqueline Harris

A CELEBRATION of Woodley’s business talent has resulted in a donation to a local charity. On Monday, the chair of the Festival of Business Woodley, Jacqueline Harris, presented a cheque to Claire Page on behalf of the Arrhythmia Alliance - LillyMay Page. The charity is committed to and is successfully raising funds that has resulted in the purchase and installation of defibrillators in Woodley schools. Ms Harris said: “I am delighted to make this donation to a local charity which is doing outstanding work in raising the importance of installing and training in the use of defibrillators. The donation is a tremendous example of local people coming together to benefit their community.” The festival will return on Wednesday, November 9, at the Oakwood Centre in Woodley. For more details, visit www. festivalofbusinesswoodley.co.uk,

NEWS | 11

Friday, March 11, 2016 THEWOKINGHAMPAPER

Richard Smith talks about the appeal to buy boots for refugees living in Calais. Below: a sample pair of boots Bottom: The borough and town mayor attended the presentation. Pictures: Phil Creighton

WINDOWS & DOORS

CONSERVATORIES

APPEAL

Mayors hear about boots on the Calais ground AN APPEAL to buy boots for refugees living in Calais held a public meeting last weekend to report back on its progress. Boots WIthout Borders, set up by Richard Smith and his partner, organised the follow-up event on Saturday at Wokingham Methodist Church, so supporters could find out what happened when the brand-new walking boots were distributed last month. The audience included both borough and town mayors, Councillors Parry Batth and Philip Mirfin, church leaders and donors. Mr Smith said: “We were delighted with the

meeting. It was great to see so many people there, the discussion was lively and very helpful, and it gave us a huge boost of confidence. “We’re continuing with phase one and we’re working to get about 150 pairs of boots out in the next week or so. “Then we’re all about getting charitable status and making connections with donors. “Hundreds of thousands of people have made their way to Europe, with more inevitably coming. We need to be as organised and efficient as possible in our plans to help them.” n www.bootswithoutborders.org.uk

REPLACEMENT ROOFS

CRIME

Distraction thieves target town’s senior shoppers

BI-FOLD DOORS

By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokinghampaper.co.uk A SUPERMARKET targeted by distraction thieves says it is increasing security and adding more CCTV cameras to its store. Last week, Thames Valley Police released CCTV images of three men it wants to speak to in relation to an incident that occurred in the Waitrose supermarket in Wokingham’s town centre. Around 3pm on Thursday, February 25, an 81-year-old woman paid for her shopping in the Rectory Road store before waiting for a taxi. The police say that two unknown men were standing very close to the victim as she completed her transaction and witnessed her entering her PIN. While she was waiting for a taxi a man approached her and showed her a number of coins in his hand. A second man then helped her load her shopping into the taxi. The victim later discovered that her purse had been stolen and three attempts had been made to withdraw money from her bank account. It is one of a number of thefts that have taken place across the borough over the past few weeks. Police say that the thefts

CCTV images of three men that Thames Valley Police would like to trace in relation to a distraction theft in Waitrose’s Wokingham town centre branch

have all targeted older women and taken place in and around shops in Wokingham town centre. n Between about 11.20am and 12.45pm on Thursday, February 18, a handbag was stolen from an 82-year-old woman while she was shopping in Waitrose, Rectory Road. The offender was a man with a receding hairline, brown eyes and wearing a beige anorak style jacket. n Between about 3.20pm and 3.45pm on Tuesday, February 23, a mobile phone and purse was stolen from a 68-year-old woman in Waitrose car park, Rectory Road. n Between about 1.30pm and 2pm on Thursday, February 25, a purse was stolen from a 65-year-old woman’s handbag in the Cancer Research shop in Jocks Lane.

n At about noon on Friday 26 February, a bank card was stolen from an 83-year-old woman’s handbag in M&Co, Market Place. The offender was about 35 to 40 approximately 5ft 9inch, with short hair, a small beard and wearing a dark bomber jacket. A similar incident has also been reported in Banbury on February 5 an elderly lady was shopping in Robert Dyas, High Street, when two men engaged her in conversation. Later, the woman realised her purse has been stolen from her handbag. A Waitrose spokesperson told The Wokingham Paper: “We take the safety and wellbeing of our customers very seriously and added more CCTV cameras as part of our recent

refurbishment. We continue to work closely with the police and have increased the presence of our own security teams following the recent incidents in the town.” Police Community Support Officer Natalie White, who is based at Wokingham police station, said: “I am appealing for information from anyone who may have witnessed this theft from an elderly woman or who can identify the people in these CCTV images, as we believe they might have vital information about the incident that can aid our investigation. “If you have any information about the incident please call the 24-hour Thames Valley Police enquiry centre on 101.”

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MEETING

THEWOKINGHAMPAPER Friday, March 11, 2016

FEEDBACK

Have your say on council services

Matthewsgreen forum date EMMBROOK residents are invited to find out more about the new Matthewsgreen development at a community forum meeting later this month. Developers have outline planning consent for up to 760 homes on the site as well as a primary school and community, open green space and play areas. The area will also have the North Wokingham Distributor Road running through it. The forum on Monday, March 21 will be an opportunity for all local residents to find out more. The evening will be in two parts; from 6.30pm to 7.30pm representatives from the developer consortium will be holding a drop-in exhibition. From 7.40pm to 9pm there will be presentations from representatives from Wokingham Borough Council and the developer consortium followed by a question and answer session. The meeting will take place at Emmbrook School.

By JOHN WAKEFIELD news@wokinghampaper.co.uk

FAITH

Women gather for a world service WOMEN from across the borough joined with others across the world for special services to mark Women’s World Day of Prayer last Friday. St Paul’s in Reading Road was the venue for Wokingham women to gather for a service, which was based on the theme Receive Children, Receive Me.

It used resources prepared by women from Cuba and included a range of hymns, readings and reflections. The service started with a procession featuring the brightly dressed women pictured above. Picture: Phil Creighton

EDUCATION

OBITUARY

Local campaigner dies after illness A CAMPAIGNER for local issues died peacefully in hospital on Monday, February 29 after a long illness. Les Roland took an avid interest in local matters and was a passionate advocate for various issues such as the new distributor road and Elms Field. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

Redwood backs new school funding plan A WOKINGHAM MP said that he has been lobbying for a fairer funding system for schools. Writing on his blog earlier this week, John Redwood said that as a result of his campaign, the Government has issued a new consultation document on the issue that shows it wants to move to a system where pupils are funded “with the same characteristics and the same costs at the same rate, no matter where they live”.

Mr Redwood said: “The new system will continue to give more money to pupils from disadvantaged backgrounds. It will also take account of school and local area costs. “This should mean improvements in the amount of money paid for each pupil at Wokingham and West Berkshire schools, which currently receive a low level of support.” n The consultation document can be seen at www.consult.education.gov.uk

RESIDENTS will have the chance to meet their borough council thanks to a special event tomorrow (Saturday). Organisers are inviting people to come and talk to the council’s team about their experiences of their services and if they are happy with them. The stall, which will be based in Market Place as part of the Saturday town centre market, will also give visitors the chance to see what has happened in the 12 months since a similar event was held. Views on these changes will also be sought. A spokesperson for the council said that in addition to more than 40 new self-serve online services, it has redesigned the borough council website to make it easier for people to navigate and find things. It now also works on mobile phones. As part of these enhancements, borough residents can now use the website to track some of their service requests online, and it has also introduced accounts for residents. Additionally, the council says that

there are now improved forms for reporting missed waste collections and ordering black recycling boxes. It has also increased the number of queries dealt with at first point of contact, to save people from repeating information. The new website means that many of the new services are available all day every day, making it easier for people to do things they need to at the times they want – even if that time is 2am. “We held a successful series of Meet Your Council events last year in Earley, Woodley and Wokingham,” said Cllr Pauline Jorgensen (pictured), executive member for resident services. “These gave people the chance to meet officers face-to-face, ask questions and talk to us about issues of concern to them. “We collected lots of information, ideas, and questions, which we followed up afterwards. “Because they were so useful for us and residents, we’ve decided to repeat these events this year and the first one will be at Wokingham Market Place. “Everyone is welcome so if you’re passing, or in the area, do pop along. We look forward to meeting you.”

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challenge. A new job is a particularly challenge because it embraces most aspects of life. The journey to and from a place of employment has to be explored, different routes or modes of transport assessed, and time and costs weighed up. Then there is the environment. Will you be working on your own, under close supervision or within a team? Will you have suitable qualifications or will you be learning new skills? Becoming a carer embraces all these things and more. Not only does a home care worker need to turn up on time, at the right place and with the right skills, they also need to grow in understanding of someone who will closely depend on them. Although this is a responsibility, the carers at Bridges Home Care admit it is the close relationships they build with their clients, that reap such unexpected rewards; a huge sense of fulfilment alongside personal development of character and confidence. As well, of course, they facilitate a person with a disability or weakness to becoming independent in their own home, restoring their dignity, sense of purpose and well being. Paul Ray, one of the experienced carers at Bridges, now himself a co-ordinator says: “I have been surprised by the

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amazing things I have learnt. I don’t just mean the practical skills that Bridges have trained me in, I mean the hidden benefits... of learning to get alongside people in a way that brings them new life, sets them free and gives them more confidence. It’s been fantastic the truly interesting people I have met – from prima ballerinas and aircraft pilots to corporate business men. “All want to tell you their stories, which are fascinating. You become more than a carer – you become part of their life.” Bridges Home Care have their own staff training centre where new carers are trained in practical skills, such as how to give personal hygiene or

medication, technical skills such as how to use hoists and lifting equipment and administrative skills such as filling in the care sheets and client notes correctly. All of these aspects contribute to the significant role a home carer plays in the life of a client. Bridges is renowned for the quality of its care team, and demand is growing for its services, all over the counties of Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire. Caring is an important part of living, not only for those on the receiving end, but also for those who are giving the care. Why not give yourself a push, take up the challenge and discover the best that you can be, as a carer.

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THE WOKINGHAM PAPER N E W S W I T H A H E A RT F O R T H E B O RO U G H

Let’s get together to clean up the borough THEY say that many hands make light work. And when it comes to giving the borough a spring clean, that’s certainly true. The big tidy-up takes place next weekend, with most parishes organising their own litter picks on Saturday, March 19 or Sunday, March 20. It’s a big exercise and one that’s much needed. While some of this is to clean for the Queen’s birthday party, this is also an annual campaign where the work of litter louts is picked up. It’s a matter of shame that such efforts have to be made – it means that there are people who live and work in the borough but have little respect for it. There is simply no excuse for littering, be it a sweet wrapper, fag end or fly-tipping. It’s not just unsightly – the rubbish can also be dangerous for wildlife. The plastic that keeps a six-pack together can suffocate a duck. The drinks can or that glass bottle could break, leaving sharp edges that could harm a pet dog’s paw out on the walk. And as for leaving oil cans around – goodness know how much pollution they can bring into the local eco-system. So, mark next weekend in your diary and set aside a couple of hours to tidy up around you. Once you get the right kind of litter bug, make sure you join the Wokingham Litter Heroes: a wonderful bunch of people who want to take positive action to ensure that the borough continues to look great. Of course, being a litter hero is easy: you don’t drop it in the first place.

CHURCH NOTES

Why I’ve got 50 Easter eggs I’VE just been to Asda to buy 50 chocolate Easter eggs. Conscious that our shopping trolley was attracting some attention, matters were made worse by a poster attached to the front of the trolley asking ‘How much sugar is lurking in this trolley?’ But I wonder what the original triumvirate of English chocolate makers would have made of it all? Quaker grocers like the Rowntree’s, Cadbury’s and Fry’s came to dominate chocolate making in the 19th and 20th centuries. Until the Food Adulteration Act was passed in 1860, it was common for grocers to add used tea leaves to fresh tea; sand to coffee; starch powder to cream and poisonous food colouring to sweets. Faced with such unscrupulous goings on, the general population turned to Quaker grocers, because they had demonstrated their integrity in the face of persecution. People thought that if the Quakers held ‘truth’ in such high regard, you were less likely to get brick dust in your chocolate. ‘The Religious Society of Friends’ get their name from John 15:13-14, “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. You are my friends if you do what I command”. Many of Jesus’s friends who originally heard those words, went on to be imprisoned or executed for their faith. So, just as people in the 18th Century trusted the Quakers because of the persecution they endured, surely we can trust the apostles when they said that Jesus died for our sins, was buried and rose again. Ironically, Quakers like Messrs Rowntree, Cadbury and Fry would not have celebrated Easter at all, let alone made chocolate eggs to remember it. But at Christ Church, we will be celebrating those ancient truths as well as giving away lots of chocolate eggs too. You see, they weren’t all for me. Mark Huddleston is the Minister of Christ Church Wokingham which meets every Sunday at 10.30am at St Crispin’s School on London Road, Wokingham

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THEWOKINGHAMPAPER Friday, March 11, 2016

Your views

We love to hear from you! Send us your views on issues relatingto the borough (in 250 words or less) to The Wokingham Paper, Crown House, 231 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS or email: letters@wokinghampaper.co.uk We reserve the right to edit letters

Send your thoughts to letters@wokinghampaper.co.uk

We should vote to stay in EU ON June 23rd every one of us has an equal vote in the referendum, and an equal chance to have a say in the future of our country. The Green Party wants Britain to remain a part of the EU because we believe that we flourish when we work together on the shared challenges we face. In a fast-changing world we need international rules to control big business and finance, and to ensure that people’s rights are protected – at work and as consumers. The EU has also given us the freedom to live, study, work and retire across an entire continent. The EU helps us look after our environment too. It’s only by working with our European neighbours that we can tackle climate change, protect wildlife and reduce pollution. Thanks to EU rules, our beaches are cleaner, and our dirtiest power stations are being shut down. The European story should be celebrated. Countries with different histories and cultures have come together, opting to share sovereignty while keeping their own traditions, in order to work together for the common good. Now, more than ever, being a member of the EU helps the UK meet head on international challenges like the refugee crisis, international terrorism and climate change. We know that the EU isn’t perfect, nor is Westminster. We want it to be more democratic, and accountable to the citizens of Europe. But to make the EU better for every European we need to stay in and reform it. Let’s not leave the argument to white men in grey suits shouting at each other. A better EU is possible: where corporate influence is curtailed, where more power is held locally, and citizens have a real say. Greens are determined to build that EU, but we can only do that by staying part of it. Rob White, Reading East Green party

Why lights, not a roundabout? I have just discovered that they are planning to install traffic lights at the junction of Old Forest Road and Reading Road when the Northern distributor road is constructed. It is unbelievable that Wokingham traffic planners

Please don’t use Elms Field as a car park While South West Trains work on turning Wokingham Station car park into a multi-storey, Wokingham Borough Council will let people park on Elms Field. On Facebook, you expressed your concerns about the plans: There is a half empty multistorey car park in Town, above Argos, why is that so under used? Perhaps due to the maximum time you can park there for? Louise Brown I feel so sorry for Elms Field... and for the people of Wokingham who don’t want it to become a car park, even if it is only temporary. Sema Lunn The larger main car park at station will be closed including the

20 minute drop off spaces from March 27, so I’m guessing they are getting a wiggle on. Had to ask where the disabled spaces are going to be during the works through to July - they hadn’t thought about it previously but there will be two up the steep ramp of the season car park (don’t have to be a season ticket holder but obviously do need to be blue badge holder). I’m never gonna push hubby up that ramp in his wheelchair! Sue Robertson I wondered why they were cutting a large section of trees out at the back of Elms field, I guess it’s for access. How about people just use the car park behind the carnival pool as there’s loads of spaces in there?

have perversely and irrationally decided to install traffic lights instead of roundabouts at a number of recent developments – notably at the top of the new station link road – which have conclusively demonstrated that traffic lights continually and unnecessarily obstruct the smooth flow of traffic at these junctions at all times. The numerous roundabouts at major junctions throughout Wokingham borough demonstrably keep traffic flowing freely 24/7. A suitably constructed roundabout at the proposed junction together with controlled pedestrian crossing on Old Forest Road would provide safe provision for cyclists and pedestrians without stopping traffic unnecessarily every other minute, all day and night. This would also be cheaper to construct and maintain – and also be better for the environment with less electricity used and less pollution from cars continually forced to stop and start at traffic lights without good reason. It would seem to me from the evidence of their work, that the traffic planners do not live or work in

Or is this a way for the council to get an excuse to start work at Elms field? Claire Mear Nice… Such a shame Woky Borough Council doesn’t think of families and keep it green with a fantastic playing fields for the kids. We’ve got a perfectly good car park above Argos going spare… Oh, wait that’s too easy isn’t it! Spencer Deering Why not clear the Wellington house site and level a bigger car park rather than taking the best place in town to learn how to ride a bike. Amanda Kirby Sounds like pure spite by WBC who will not listen to its own people Steve Blunden

Wokingham and have never been to study the junctions they have created and have not used any common sense in their decisions. Neil Vokes, via email

Where are you driving, John?

I note with interest some of John Redwood’s latest complaints about modern life. (Blog, 7 March). “You drive to your next engagement. You need to be ever vigilant for the hours of operation of bus lanes, endless changes of speed limit, box junctions, cycle ways on the carriageway, left and right turn rules and the rest.” Where in Wokingham is this? And why is he so opposed to public transport and safer roads for cyclists? Does he think everyone should drive every where all the time? John is clearly out of touch with both Wokingham and the need to offer safe and speedy alternatives to car travel. Andy Croy, Wokingham Labour

GOOD ADVICE

Working children There are often pressures on children to earn money. Sometimes, because they want to go on a school trip and their parents cannot afford it, or want them to learn to pay their own way. Sometimes, because the family is so poor that the children need to contribute to the family finances. This article applies to children and young people who are under school leaving age. Young people can leave school on the last Friday in June if they reach 16 years by the end of the school holidays. There are laws to protect the employment rights of children and young people. The laws concern their health and safety, what work they can do, when they can work and how many hours they can work. These laws are very strict, and an employer can be prosecuted for breaking them. No one under the minimum school leaving age can be employed in work other than in light work. They are not allowed to do work which is likely to be harmful to their safety, health, development, or work that will affect their attendance at school or participation in work experience. They are not allowed to work: • In places like a factory or industrial site • During school hours • Before 7am or after 7pm • For more that one hour before school • For more that 4 hours without taking a break of 1 hour • In most jobs in a pub or betting shop

• Without having a two-week break from any work during the school holidays in each calendar year • For more than two hours on any school day or for more than 12 hours in any week in which they are required to go to school • For more than two hours on a Sunday • For more than eight hours (five hours if you are under 15) on Saturdays • For more than 35 hours (25 if you are under the age of 15) in any week in which they are not required to go to school The local authority where children live may also have some extra rules, called bylaws, about the employment of children in their area. Checking with the local authority should tell you what these are. By-laws authorising children to work in street trading must say which days, which hours, and the places where they may work. Employers who want to employ children under school leaving age are required to get a permit from their local authority. The permit must be signed by both the employer and one of the child’s parents. If a child is under 14, they are not allowed to work at all except in the following types of work: • To take part in sport, advertising, modelling, plays, films, television or other entertainment. The employer must apply for a licence from the local authority • To do odd jobs for a parent, relative or neighbour • To do babysitting However, children of 13 or above may be able to do some other types of work, depending on the by-laws of the local authority in their area. For example, the

by-laws may say that children of 13 and above can do a paper round, or that they can do light work which is not likely to be harmful to their health, safety or development. If a child is under school leaving age, they can only be employed if the person they work for (the employer) has done an assessment of the possible risks to their health and safety. They must pay particular attention to the child’s age, lack of experience, and other things that could be a risk to their health and safety. The employer must also tell one of the parents the results of the assessment. This must include any risks identified, and any measures put in place to protect the child’s health and safety at work. These rules do not apply when the child is doing occasional work such as odd jobs for someone they know, or babysitting. If the child is under school leaving age, they are not legally entitled to paid holiday from work. If a child is under school leaving age, there is no minimum wage that the employer must pay them. A child can babysit at any age, whether they are paid or not. A child is allowed to look after a child of any age. However, if the child they are babysitting is thought to be at risk because it is not being looked after properly, the babysat child’s parents could be prosecuted, or action could be taken to put their child into care. n You can get help, information and advice from your local Citizens Advice or visit www.citizensadvice. org.uk or contact Citizens Advice Wokingham at Second Floor, Waterford House, Erftstadt Court, Wokingham, RG40 2YF. Tel: 03444 111 306. email: public@wokingham-cab.org.uk

PICTURE OF THE WEEK

NELLIE KNOWS

Celebrating your photography

Reader John Cornish sent over this lovely picture of daffodils outside The Bull Inn in Arborfield. He said: “It made me feel that spring is almost here.” Thanks John, it’s a great reminder that warmer weather is on its way and with it, hopefully, some sunshine! We love to showcase your photos in our Picture of the Week feature. If you have a picture – landscape in format, not portrait – email it to news@wokinghampaper. co.uk. Pictures should be hi-res, landscape, 300dpi and taken by yourself, preferably within the Wokingham borough.

DR PHILLIP LEE EU poll: your vote matters Unlike Eurosceptics such as John Redwood, Bracknell MP DR PHILLIP LEE has decided to explore the issues about the forthcoming European Union referendum before stating where he stands. Here, he explains why

HE choice we each face on June 23, and what we decide as a nation to do with that choice, is important. Our country’s social, economic and security interests are all involved, as is our world view. Over the last two weeks we have seen a wave of speculation and political posturing. But the choice can’t be boiled down to a strapline or personality politics and the arguments are not clear-cut. In a referendum in which your vote is every bit as valuable as mine, it is not my place to tell you how to vote; we must each make up our own mind. Instead, I want to share my initial thinking. For some, our membership of the EU is ideological – they love or loathe the European project. For me, it is practical. It is about what is best for my family, my country and the wider global community. Neither do I want my country to be one that takes friends and allies for granted and leaves them in the lurch. For me, maintaining the status quo is not an option. Neither is disengagement from the European continent. In the 2015 General Election, the Conservative Party made a manifesto commitment to hold this referendum. There is a real question as to whether the UK would be better off giving up its membership of the European Union. Its response to

HAVE YOUR SAY:

those seeking refuge from the wartorn Middle East, for example, has been incoherent and often shameful. That catastrophe has again shown our quite limited control over our own borders and the inability of the EU to anticipate and react to current crises. Economic worries are also present. The continuing instability of the Eurozone and the scale of debt being carried by some Mediterranean countries, are both of particular concern. During this period of genuine continental instability, the Prime Minister has sought to reach a new UK settlement in a reformed EU. I have supported him in this endeavour. The EU has played a significant role in our international political landscape for a generation and most of us have grown up with it. It has facilitated vital security cooperation and set a gold standard for civilised nations across the globe. It has been crucially important in stabilising our near neighbourhood, the place from which the greatest threats historically come. Closer to home, I rarely come across anyone whose direct personal experience of the EU has been negative. From helping a growing tech firm in Bracknell to take on the global giant that is Google, to making our continental holidays easier, it has generally made life better for most people who live in Europe.

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At a global level, the world faces connected challenges of such strategic importance and complexity that we need every tool in our armoury to face them down. This is a time in history when we need stronger alliances against extremism and terrorism, environmental change, organised crime, economic shocks, a resurgent Russia and an expansive China – to name just a few. If we are to be on the winning side of history, we need powerful alliances and strong leadership. Negotiating a new deal was an opportunity to strengthen us and our allies. I supported the Prime Minister in the hope that he would conclude a deal which decisively addressed these significant challenges. We are not the only EU Member State that recognises the need for change. Far from it. The EU, like other great civilising influences throughout history, must reinvent itself to carry on playing a positive role. A deal that set clear direction for a reformed EU, that built on our collective achievements in the latter half of the 20th century, and that gave us a powerful global springboard in the 21st, would have been welcome. This would not have been the first time that Britain set a strong lead for the rest of our continent. However, the settlement is very far from decisive. Its conditions and caveats alone are a good example of the difficulties that stop the EU from fulfilling its greater potential as a global force for peace and prosperity, security and justice. The difficulties that the Prime Minister faced in his negotiations make me wonder if the EU can reform to meet the fundamental challenges and

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opportunities we face in the 21st century. Instead, I believe that Britain needs to be at the forefront of change in Europe if we are to ensure our continent remains the progressive, prosperous and peaceful force for good that it has been for the last 70 years. I believe that, by creating a relationship with our European allies which is based on a strong vision for our nation’s wider role in the world, an appreciation of our shared history, as well as our separate histories, and recognition of our inevitably connected futures, we can forge a new and positive path. I believe that we can and must become a catalyst for all those countries that share our views. Such change will, however, depend on exceptional leadership and a new seriousness in our national debate. The referendum will not take place for another four months. Much will be debated during that time. I will do all I can to encourage thorough consideration of what is at stake – in my constituency and nationally. For this reason, I will retain a neutral stance on the referendum for the immediate future. Follow me on Twitter (@DrPhillipLeeMP) if you would like to read articles I find of interest on both sides of the argument and let me know if you would like me to help to facilitate the conversation in your business, school or organisation. I will not preach to you about what you should be thinking but will, in due course, issue a full statement on the position I take on our future membership of the EU.

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Nellie Williams www.nelliepompoms.co.uk

REALLY do love this time of year, everywhere I look I see daffodils, the mornings are lighter, the days seem longer and it’s still comfort food weather. Oh, I’ve needed comfort food this week following a tooth extraction. I know, I know at my age I should be holding on to my teeth but sadly this one wasn’t going to make it and so I bravely said “whip it out”. I say bravely as I am petrified of the dentist’s chair after having a mouthful of fillings in my childhood and biting the drill, oh yes and biting the dentist’s finger, so I’ve not got many happy memories. However I was brave and had the tooth out, sadly I got dry socket which is fairly common and incredibly uncomfortable so I am feeling sorry for myself, hence needing the comfort foods.

Energy switching We’ve recently switched our energy providers and have a projected saving of £600 per year, which is a whopping amount. It couldn’t be easier (I did nothing as Big Welsh did it all), he priced it up on Uswitch and then arranged it through Quidco and got a £25 cash back on the same deal. Bargain! Here’s hoping we have a decent summer so we can have outside living (and save more money). I can remember as a child having all our meals outside and the hose out of the bathroom window siphoning the dirty water to the borders, hard to believe that the summer of 1976 was 40 years ago. Gosh!

Refunds and credits I’ve also been having long conversations with Vodafone about a refund I was expecting in November, after speaking to far too many people I sent an email to the CEO and I am hoping I have it sorted. I was offered a refund following a delay in them processing an order and when I chased it up they said it would be a credit to my account, I did get a tad grumpy about this and suggested a refund is not a credit and therefore I would like a refund to my bank. I can appreciate that they might well be cost effective but I find automated call centres soul destroying and I am sure I am not the only one.

This weekend… If you are wondering what to do this weekend then I can highly recommend you nip across the bridge to The Henley House and Garden Show which is taking place on Saturday and Sunday and promises to be a great event. I’m looking forward to seeing a number of the exhibitors, especially Sweetheart Darling who make beautiful things you can’t ignore using old and unloved pallets and crates together with traditional sign writing techniques.

Upcycling I’ve also been upcycling this week as I picked up some sticky backed plastic from Lidl and lined the inside of my kitchen cupboards, took me back to my Granny’s larder and the summer of 1976! You can read all about in on the blog over at www.nelliepompoms.co.uk. Hope you have a brilliant week ahead, it’s Granny Valley’s birthday on Tuesday and mine on Wednesday so there will be cake, card and candles.

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THEWOKINGHAMPAPER Friday, March 11, 2016

Wokingham’s people

TONY OH, MR JOHNSON SMITH!

Mapula’s sanctuary is the kitchen

Ain’t Misbehavin’

A chef from Wokingham wants to invite you into her kitchen. SALLY BRYANT finds out why Mapula wants to share her love of cooking with you

APULA SWANEPOEL says food is her passion and her kitchen is her sanctuary. She is one of a dozen chefs now taking orders from Wokingham people who want healthy, home-cooked dishes delivered to their door. Supper.co.uk’s new twist on the takeaway is a boon for weary workers, or anyone who doesn’t have time to cook for themselves – or indeed anyone who just fancies a break from the stove. And Mapula, an Arborfield mum of three grown-up sons, is relishing the opportunity to indulge in her favourite pastime to serve up something delicious for her customers – it’s got to be a winning recipe! Mrs Swanepoel explains: “I grew up in a household [in South Africa] where food was so important – my mother was a food writer and an excellent cook, and my father was also an excellent cook. Food is just a passion, my entire life has been food and hospitality.” This enthusiastic chef’s tie-up with Supper came out of the blue. Someone sent her a link to the website, suggesting she might be interested, and she fell in love with the idea. “I cook fresh every day and whether it is for two or six, it’s all the same.” Mrs Swanepoel has been on board since Supper’s Wokingham launch three weeks ago. At the moment she is offering six or seven dishes, including slow-cooked winter warmers, and it is a menu of family favourites and new recipes. The choices include a mouth-watering slowcooked lamb stew cooked with onion, garlic and ginger and served with rice and caramelised tomatoes. She mans the pans three or four days a week – and there are no prizes for guessing what husband Marius will be eating on the nights she is working! Mrs Swanepoel is full of praise for the way the Supper company is run, its support and the fact the nutritional values of all recipes are checked. “It’s a brilliant idea. And because I love cooking, it’s an outlet for my passion – and my kitchen is my sanctuary.”

Mapula Swanepoel prepares another fresh dish in her Arborfield kitchen, ready for users of supper.co.uk Picture: Steve Smyth

Footpaths

A tasty Supper straight to your door SINGING for your supper is a thing of the past for Wokingham foodies – download a free app, a few clicks and it will be delivered to your door. Supper.co.uk has come to the borough and it is a whole new take on the takeaway. It is the brainchild of Duncan Scott and Nick Bolter, who grew up here. They were both working long hours in the City and were conscious lack of time meant they, and thousands of others, weren’t eating too well. They came up with the idea of a service allowing people to book

VOLUNTEER CORNER n ABC to read is a registered charity which recruit, train and support community volunteers to give help to primary school children who need a little extra one-to-one help with reading. Volunteers will visit a local primary school on a weekly basis and works with children individually seeing the same children on each visit, talking and reading and playing games with them. The volunteers are supported by a field worker who is available to provide ideas and act as a link between the charity and the school. Their next training is on April 11 and 15, so please contact us as soon as

FATS WALLER created this jazz classic back in 1929. Since then it’s boosted the careers of many of the 30+ artists who’ve recorded and played it - Louis Armstrong, Ella Fitzgerald, Ray Charles. It’s been a big hit time and time again. Just like our borough is with property developers. Only they aren’t as popular. Developers started work in January down on Hatch Farm, between Winnersh and Lower Earley. All the lovely pictures and drawings they put forward to get outline planning permission in 2011 have gone. They’ve now produced the real ones, you can see them at Wokingham Borough Council’s planning website, search for 152359. Leafy winding avenues have been replaced with an ugly cattle-grid layout, packing the maximum number of houses into the smallest possible area. The primary school’s disappeared. No community facilities for doctors, shops or daycare. But the new main road has been retained as the mandated access for construction traffic. This is much better than many other developments in the borough. As many will know, part of this site is on the River Loddon floodplain and part is right by the M4. Apparently, these two areas can't be built on, so they're being fluffed up a bit and called a Country Park. One’s going to be drowned out by water when it rains too much, the other by noise, which when it's raining gets EVEN LOUDER! The gravel footpath joining the two is planned to have the unsightly overhead cables run underneath it. But before you walk along this footpath, I’d recommend reading the advice to MPs about magnetic fields and leukaemia first.

a meal home-cooked by a local chef. Market research showed it was feasible, success in south-west London since August has proved it is a winner and now Wokingham can tuck in and enjoy. All recipes used by Supper’s home chefs have been checked by a Harley Street nutritionist and diners can check calories and fat, salt and sugar content when they order via their phone. All chefs have qualifications in food hygiene and are registered with the council. The duo cooking up the Supper success is proving to be a good

combination – CEO Mr Scott has a background in wealth management and head of personnel Mr Bolter has always been involved in hospitality. Mr Bolter says: “The uptake [in Wokingham] has been superb, and it’s only the third week! It has been really good so far, positive. “We are offering a different model of the traditional takeaway and the repeat order rate is ridiculously high. It is convenient, being an app, and there is no minimum order.” If you are feeling hungry, go to the website – you can order from noon for a supper delivery at 7pm.

With Helena Badger possible if you are interested. n Community Responders are a group of people who volunteer to help save lives in the local community. Using skills taught by the South Central Ambulance Service they respond to life threatening emergencies within their local area and are able to arrive before an ambulance and start basic lifesaving treatment. The South Central Ambulance Service is looking for more volunteers to extend the amount of cover provided in the local area. They provide full training and support to local community responder. The

scheme aims to provide 24 -hour local cover, subject to enough volunteers being available. Whether you can give just one evening per month or one day per week, this could be the volunteer role for you. n Home Start is a national voluntary organisation offering informal, friendly support to parents with at least one child under the age of five. Home Start knows how hard being a parent can be, particularly during the early years, and that any additional pressures can make things seem overwhelming. Home Start Volunteers come from all walks of life, and are usually

parents themselves. They are carefully selected for their friendliness, practical approach and understanding. Volunteers attend a course of preparation and are then matched with a family. They then visit families in their own homes to offer support, friendship and practical help. These are just three of the roles we are recruiting for, but we have more than 100 different roles on our books. To find out about these or any other roles, call us on 0118 977 0749, email wok-vol@btconnect.com or visit www.volunteercentrewokingham.org.uk

Anyway, enough about plans, what about reality ? If I thought the plans were a bit shonky, the reality is even less pleasant. It doesn't match up to the “model development” that their top management talked of back in April 2015. By November, they were expressing strong concerns about the misbehaviour of residents, saying that things needed to start off well if they were to continue well. This was a chastening, but fair criticism at the time. Residents got together and spread the word via the dog walkers to help manage the situation, so that the permissive footpaths they’d been using for 20+ years might remain open. During my visit earlier this week, I asked the site manager about residents’ behaviour. “Good as gold,” was his response. But despite the improved behaviour, many of the key footpaths crossing the site got fenced off anyway. A poor reward for trying to help and a salutary reminder of the contrast between top managers’ talks in public and their staff’s and contractors behaviour later in private. So what about other aspects of the builders’ behaviour you might ask? Good question. It appears that they've “not quite” followed their own drawings, working methods, or agreements with our borough council. After complaints this February regarding mud all over Lower Earley Way, the borough’s response was spot on. They investigated, negotiated and got agreement on a resolution. There was proper follow-up later, and within the current council budgets, I can’t see how they could have done better. The builders woke up and it took them less than a month to install the wheel washing which was needed from the outset. But as this week's visit showed me, the equipment is in the wrong place. It’s bone dry, water hoses not connected, pumps off. Impressively ornamental, but misses the point. Since January, there’s been too many other examples where builder’s behaviour hasn't matched up to planning conditions or their own documentation. Not even close to that “model development” aspiration. Some might say that this is the borough bouncil’s fault. However it isn’t. Responsibility for compliance, like responsibility for behaviour, lies with the builders. And it’s their senior management’s job to ensure that their people behave. Otherwise, the public might just start thinking that they’ve been … … … … … … Again.

Friday, March 11, 2016 THEWOKINGHAMPAPER

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Introducing Luckley’s Sixth Form mentoring programme

e have set up a Sixth Form Mentoring Programme, with each student being matched to an Alumni member. The programme gives students the opportunity to form a one-on-one relationship with an Alumni member who will hopefully provide support and tips for further education, preparation for interviews and expand their horizons as they consider career options. Mentoring is a personal, important way to impact a student by becoming an educational and career role model and friend. Mentoring is particularly satisfying when the mentor is able to answer questions and settle the worries of students who are currently in the same position that they were just a few years ago. We spoke with all the students to get an idea of their plans ‘Post Luckley, whether that is university, taking a gap year, apprenticeship etc, and also what field they thought they would ideally like to work in. Obviously some of them have no firm ideas, but some were very clear on what they think they want to do. From the list of Alumni who had volunteered to take part in the programme we were able to match either with someone who had studied the same subject at uni, had chosen a non-uni route, or was in the same career field as the student’s choice. The programme will run until the end of Year 13. The students have all made their initial contact with their mentors and are already receiving some excellent feedback, advice and support.

All mentors are invited in for the Mentors Lunch in June, a thank you from the school and a chance to meet their student face-to-face. Any who are not able to attend we will try to arrange Skype chats with. The programme has been an opportunity for some Alumni who are living overseas to be involved and give something back to the school, as most communication will be by email. Some of the best matches are: Eleanor Barron – who wants to study physics, maths, science or engineering at uni with Lucy Brown whose company are particularly involved in getting girls into studying STEM projects. Ellie Brewin – who wants to do physiotherapy with Caroline White who is senior physiothepist at Gloucester Rugby Club Lauren Clark – who wants to study psychology with Femke Okten who has her own practice as a clinical psychologist. Lottie Fletcher – who wants to do primary teaching with Louisa Taylor who studied primary teaching at uni and, surprisingly enough, is now a primary teacher. Millie Swift – who wants to study Opthalmic Dispensing with Duone Fonterwell who is an optician. Alice Tren – who wants to study classics or history with Rhiannon Broad who studied classics at uni. We also have an accountant, lawyer, midwife, paediatric nurse, bio-chemist and more.

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE | 17 Forensic experiments allowed Luckley House pupils to discover whodunit at a special murder mystery day held at the Wokingham school last month

A mystery at Luckley House School!

AST MONTH, Luckley House School Year 7 were joined by eight pupils from local prep schools for an enrichment day. The theme was Murder In Chalkwell Village and the day involved challenging, but fun activities in music, English, maths and science, which led the pupils to discover the identity of the Chalkwell Murderer. The day started with ice breakers and a music session, where the pupils created and performed 'suspense music' using a range of instruments. Next, they examined the crime scene in the library, where the body of 'Hugo First' had been discovered. They worked together in small groups, as police investigators, studying the profiles of the six main suspects, and later, had the chance to interview each one, played by Year 10 pupils.

The pupils then solved clues with mathematical skills, such as logic problems and code analysis, before spending a session as Forensic Scientists in the Science Laboratories, carrying out experiments on soil and other materials found at the ‘crime scene’. The day ended with the guilty suspect, 'Anita Bath' 'coming clean' and explaining why she had committed the murder. Mrs Tudor, Luckley House’s Head, said: “It was a delight to welcome pupils from local Prep Schools to Luckley to work with our pupils on this fun enrichment day. “They all had a fabulous time and worked extremely well together.” n Photos from the day are available on its Facebook page at www.facebook.com/luckleyhouseschool

Excellent all-round education for senior boys and girls

We are proud of our outstanding academic results and exceptional pastoral care.

OPEN MORNING Tuesday 15 March, 9am

OPEN HOUSE every Friday morning

Coffee with the Head at 9.30am, followed by a tour of the school

Book online at:

www.luckleyhouseschool.org Luckley House School, Wokingham Tel: 0118 978 4175

| HERITAGE 18 Friday, August 21, 2015 TheWokinghamPaPer

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WokinghamRemembers

THEWOKINGHAMPAPER Friday, March 11, 2016

HERITAGE | 17

In association association with with In

Exploring Exploringour ourheritage heritagewith with wokinghamremembers.com wokinghamremembers.com

FAMILY REVIEW

The in the life the Walters Bearwood TheTimes past which hasofshaped our of present... Before Christmas we published two articles on the This week MikE ChuRChER reviews sale BearwoodRemembers College by the Walters just theof Wokingham articles prior to the First World War. This week of the past four months and discusses STEVE BACON provides uscontributed with the history of some of the factors which this family and their part in theand development of to the making of Wokingham its Wokingham throughout the 19th century environment.

VER the past months the NYONE with an interest inpage localhas Wokingham Remembers history seems to an know that been providing early picture ‘John Walter’ founded Times of how a small marketThe town and a newspaper and built Bearwood few villages on the edge of a forest is today Mansion and Sindlesham Village. That’s ranked as one of the country’s leading almost true – only the story revolves communities. around three generations of John Walter, Education, religion, industry, transport, not one.structures, national politics and social John Walter I was coal merchant local government area all important between and 1781. He established pieces in1755 building the great Wokingham ajigsaw. Coal Exchange and of joined Here nowinisLondon, a summary our Lloyds as an Underwriter, overcontributions to date and but a few ideas on speculated. In 1782 he bought a the next round of articles. patent for logotype printing Education, Education, and in 1784 he founded Education Square. Printing-House Wokingham is renowned as His Today’s newspaper, The one of the country’s centres of excellence Daily Universal Register for education; this The is partly due to strong was soon renamed schoolIn performance Times. 1789, he wasand the motivated parents who in one of the most imprisoned inlive Newgate highly communities in the UK. for libel,educated but pardoned in 1791.If we look into the history of Wokingham’s schools In 1795 he retired to we can see how education is his woven into its DNA. Teddington when eldest son Prior totook the Great William over. War, JohnWokingham died in was surrounded by manor houses and Teddington in 1812. members the Walter landed IIgentry who By 1803,of John wanted to behis close to the levers of power; had replaced brother i.e. the royal households William at The Times, of Windsor. upper echelons and,Ininturn 1817,these he bought possessed a serious sense of duty land at Bearwood under andnew a responsibility to In ensure their the Enclosure Act. community received at the 1820s he establishedleast a basic education. Wokingham the Bearwood Estate, also had a powerful professional building a classical villaclass, a strong church community (including the nonabove a lake, with a ‘Model conformists) and together they shared village’ of Sindlesham including a a strong beliefclubhouse in the importance of village school, and cricketteaching. field. Thedeath resultinwas with the skills, the The January 1844 of his eldest motivation and the finance available, daughter Catherine affected him greatly; thereonly developed culture of at education aged 24, she awas buried first in which still holds strong to this day. the churchyard of St Nicholas, Hurst – Wokingham but was re-interredtransport two years later at is St probably the single the Transport newly-built Catherine’s Church, most important factor in Wokingham’s Bearwood. development, in both rail and road What a memorial toits John’s daughter, systems. naming a church after her. Future will look at thetook The newarticles ecclesiastical parish railways and the inintroduction the Liberty of the Newland (including

major impact they had on the town and parts of Arborfield Cross) plus with partsthe of we have already made a start Woosehill andbyHurst, and out wasthe quite road system mapping course of separate from the civil parish boundaries. the old Forest Road. Just one year afterwards 1847, While the building of thein M4 had a John Walter II himself was buried in of the major influence on the introduction the churchyard. His obituary celebrated high tech businesses which now surround his use of steam power thewhich printing Wokingham, it istothe A329M presses: “It has enabled metropolitan in 1975 cut off the Forestthe Road and its press to connections issue an adequate supply for all natural between Emmbrook England even before the inhabitants and the villages of Hurst and Binfield.ofThe the itself have assembled at lovemetropolis and hate relationship with our rail the breakfast table.” and roads continue to this day! It was left to John Walter Wokingham’s military III to pull down his Dad’s heritage house and start again, As 2015 is the bi-centenary of the creating the impressive Battle of Waterloo, have been a pile there that we know today. number of articles Thecommemorating Bearwood Estatethis world changinggrew event. to encompass The area hasmost always been notedmuch for of Barkham, its contributionoftoFinchampstead the nation’s military and capability, with Arborfield’sparts REME, Wokingham, of RFA and Remount connections and the Arborfield and stretched as Sandhurstfar and asWellington Yateley. Colleges all situated Many very nearby. more public buildings Even the Duke of Wellington were provided for the took to living in Stratfield Saye, which today community including St is only 30 minutes away from Wokingham’s Paul’s Church and school town centre. (the rectory later formed Wokingham’s the basis of Wokingham Council’s offices), benefactorBorough culture plusWokingham the Drill Hallwas and, The area around Nine Mile Ride, the surrounded by off many remarkable firing for the local in individuals and theyrange were instrumental volunteer soldiers. building the much needed infrastructure The backlands of Nine of which underpinned the establishment Ride supplied the raw a strong Mile community. materials forbe the mansion and other We will later telling the story of the local buildings, nottheir to mention parts ofto Walter family and contributions Printing House Square in London. the building of Wokingham but in This April required sawmills brickworks first weekly issue, and we told the storyonof the Nine Ride, connected a standardmuchMile loved Arthur Hill, thevia 6th Marquess gauge tramway to the main railway south of Downshire. of Wokingham. clay was dug up, Although oneAsofthe Britain’s wealthiest landowners, Hill doubled the the brickfieldsArthur formed a series of as lakes: chief of theQueensmere, local Fire Brigade and was Kingsmere, California anda major financial contributor to this part of Robinson Crusoe. Wokingham’s public services. The Bearwood Estate became so Later articles will self-sufficient that theillustrate Mansionthe was demise of these great manors and even provided with power from itstheir own incumbent social system and the rise of gasworks.

Left: Bearwood as it is now … the grounds have changed little since this picture was taken. Below: The original Bearwood, built by John Walter II. It was his son who rebuilt the manor to his own design. Pictured inset left: John Walter II and below him his son, John Walter III

Wokingham Railway Station viewed from Wellington Road looking towards St Pauls Church.

its replacement: local government.

Wokingham’s wild side

Before we believe too much in the idea that Wokingham’s development was a solidly sedate experience, May’s article John IVthe hadrioting been groomed to told theWalter story of in the town take over the estate andofthe but centre during the time thebusiness, 1857 General after a Grand Tour of Europe, he returned Election. in December 1870 andaplanned describe Such events were commontosight in what he’d and seenthis to the assembled family. the town short and bloody battle On Christmas Eve,and his the brothers between the Whigs Toriesand also cousins werethe skating frozen highlighted Bush on andthe Rose hotels in Bearwood Lake; the ice broke, Market Place aswhen the headquarters ofJohn these two feral groups. IV bravely rescued his brother and cousin story was also to reflect butThe in the process wasable himself drowned. upon the national scene corruptin There’s a memorial to himand on the an island nature the lake.of general elections before the introduction of the private ballot. Walter John IV’s brother Arthur Fraser articles will include wasFuture quite different. Trained to further be a tales of anarchy and revelry in this old barrister, he was rather like King George market VI in thattown. he was ill-prepared to take the upfront role vacated by his brother. Wokingham at War Nevertheless, he becamemoments a steadying There are watershed in hand over the next taking history which markfew theyears, moment of great control John Walter III died. changeafter in a society and the Great War of Unlike his grandfather (a Conservative 1914-1918 is one such time. MP)Therefore and fathera (a LiberalofMP), Arthur was number centenaries content remain localwill Councillor and betweento2014 anda2018 commemorate lossesBattalion, of war an officer in thethe 1st great Volunteer whichBerkshire scarred the people of Wokingham Royal Regiment. forHis thedeath rest of 20th century. inthe February 1910 came as a May’s followed story shock, butedition probably not sothe much as his of two fromrather Langborough wish to brothers be cremated than buried. Road Wokingham One As aindirector of thetown. LSWR, heof our

historians, Sarah Huxford, also took us on a journey to the old battlefields in search of their graves. This story reflects only a microcosm of the losses around the county of Berkshire, but affirms the importance of the wars in the development of our local character.

Wokingham and the Royal Forest

Looking at today’s community, it is difficult to visualise just how rural the area once was and in part explains the sometimes fragile relationship between the old and new Wokingham; few areas in the UK have witnessed such extraordinary growth and change in the profile of its population. Although Wokingham’s history has always been intertwined with the surrounding villages by providing would have known all about Woking a market place for agricultural and Crematorium, the firstitof itsalso kindain the commercial produce, was Forest country and served by special Town. The term ‘forest’ did nottrains mean from a Waterloo. cluster of trees, but a system of laws laid With many down bytheir royalty for connections, the protection of the theirWalters’ huntingfunerals grounds.were major events. These onerous rules restricted local A special coaches people from train usingwith large12parts of the land carried 140 mourners Waterloo for sustenance and in from part led to the to Wokingham Station’s short platforms rise of local highwaymen and general lawlessness. As a result, thewhile subsequent for John III’s burial in 1894, another Black Act of 1723 came down heavilytoon special train brought 200 mourners the these ‘Wokingham Blacks’ resulted in depositing of Arthur Fraserand Walter’s ashes either their transportation or execution. on February 26, 1910.

The story was told in June, and also commemorated the 800th anniversary of the Magna Carta, signed at nearby Runnymede in 1215.

Shining a light on Wokingham’s ‘Dark Ages’

To bring us up to date the August articles are focused on the kids who are now entering into their summer holidays. What better way to use this month’s editions than to tell the stories of the Romans, the Celts and the Saxons influence on the area before Wokingham was even a twinkle in old Wocca’s eye? David Nash Ford provided a set of articles and puzzles which makes history fun for the young and no doubt will also catch the interest of the parents who will be looking over their child’s shoulder. It fell to JohnofWalter V Here’s toArthur’s the nextson round articles! to pay the Death Duties, and so theSteve Thanks go out to our contributors: Bearwood Estate wasNash put up for sale in Bacon, Jim Bell, David Ford, Sarah two auctions 1911 –Trevor but that is a story Huxford, RogerinLong, Ottlewski in itself. and Peter Shilham for all their continuing Hearing that the auctions were to take contributions. place, the work Chicago Tribune of All this is provided by our May historians 31 expressed noting local freesurprise, of charge and with can behyperbole found on the front pageevery of theone some that: “almost Wokingham Remembers website of the hundreds of printers, mechanics, www.wokinghamremembers.com in fact, all the non-editorial employees also to Mark Ashwell at the [ofThanks The Times] have been born on TradeMark for supporting Bearwood estate, as have the theirpaper’s fathers commitment to this project. and before them.”

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WELLBEING | 19

Friday, March 11, 2016 THEWOKINGHAMPAPER

Good health

You’re under doctor’s orders to read this page!

HEALTH MATTERS with Nicola Strudley

Question time with our MP

HEALTH

Raise a glass (of water) for World Kidney Day

How to contact us : Facebook @healthwatchwokingham Twitter @HWWokingham Phone 0118 418 1 418 Website www.healthwatchwokingham.co.uk E-Mail enquiries@healthwatchwokingham.co.uk Walk in via Citizens Advice at 2 Waterford House, Erfstadt Court, Denmark St, Wokingham RG40 2YF. Nicola Strudley works two days a week as the manager for Healthwatch Wokingham Borough. Opinions expressed in this blog are her own

Our membership scheme is available for only You do not need to be dentally fit to join BMS but a new patient examination is required before signing up. If treatment is needed during the 12 month contract a member discount of 15% is given.

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Need to regular dental visits?

For more information, please contact us on 0118 978 3815, visit our website at www.beechcroftdental.com or call into Beechcroft Dental Practice, 32 Station Road, Wokingham, RG40 2AE and speak with one of our team.

AST Friday, Healthwatch Wokingham Borough hosted the first local health and social care Question Time. It was attended by more than 40 people. Healthwatch Wokingham Borough wanted to give local residents the opportunity to air their views and have their questions addressed by John Redwood MP. We were delighted with the fantastic response, the number of questions submitted in advance of the event and the turnout. John Redwood was elected as a Member of Parliament for Wokingham at the 1987 General Election, retaining his seat at six General Elections since first entering the Commons. A long-term member of both the Cabinet and Shadow Cabinet during the Conservative Party’s various spells both in and out of government, Mr Redwood has spent the last decade serving as a backbencher. There were individual cases over access to social care, particular local provision for young people with special needs. Mr Redwood explained that these were matters run by the Council. Their first opportunity to sort out difficulties lies in a conversation with the Council officer handling their case. They have a right to involve their councillor, who is elected to supervise Council policy and administration and to help residents sort out complaints and difficulties. There is also an independent appeal system where things go wrong, and a Local Government Ombudsman if all else fails. The biggest topic of conversation was around concerns about our need for more GP services as the population of Wokingham grows. Mr Redwood explained that money follows the patients, so there will be more money for GP practices taking on additional patients. There is also capital money available from the NHS and local and national government for new premises to back new practices or practice extensions. A Councillor present reminded us that Wokingham had negotiated some money for additional health facilities in their deals with developers over new homes. The immediate need is for our local Clinical Commissioning Group (local NHS management board) and the relevant section of Wokingham Borough Council to finalise their views on where GP practices can and should be expanded or added to provide services for the new housing areas being built. Healthwatch values any opportunity to engage with local residents and talk about local health and social care services. Healthy debate and discussion of issues such as that provided through the Question Time event will enable us to ensure that local resident’s views are heard and service improvement and development take these opinions and experiences into account. It was suggested by a member of the audience that Healthwatch organise another question time with the Council and the Clinical Commissioning Group. Healthwatch is independent consumer champion for health and social care and is non-political.

Need to budget for regular dental visits?

Our membership scheme is ava Our membership scheme is available You do notfor need to be dentally fit to join butaa new patienta examination onlyforBMS £21 month Our membership scheme is available only £21 month is You do not need to be dentally fit to join BMS but a new patient examination is required before signing up. If treatment is needed during the 12 month contract a member discount of 15% is given.

required before signing up. If treatment is included? needed during the 12 month contract What is a member (including discount of 15% is given. • 2 Examinations x-rays) • • •

2 Hygienist visits Accident & Emergency Insurance 15%For member discount on treatment please more information, (excludes specialist and implant treatment)

visit our website at www.beec You do notBeechcroft need to be dentallyDental fit to join Practice, 3 BMS but a new patient examination is For more information, please contact us on2AE 0118 3815, RG40 and978 speak with one required before signing up. If treatment

visit our website at www.beechcroftdental.com call into is needed during the 12 monthor contract a member discount of 15% is given. Beechcroft Practice, n EatDental healthy and keep your weight in 32 Station Road, Wokingham, Yesterday was World Kidney Day. Here, Royal check: this can help prevent diabetes, Berkshire Hospital presents eight ways in which RG40 2AEheart and speak with one of our team. disease and other conditions

Rita Taylor, Renal Social Worker with Joanna Tilbury, Kidney Care Nurse at the Royal Berkshire Hospital

you can help look after your kidneys and stay healthy in the process

EMBERS of the public had the chance to find out how kidneys work and how to care for them as the Royal Berkshire Hospital marked World Kidney Day yesterday. Kidneys are two bean-shaped organs, each about the size of a fist. They are located just below the rib cage, one on each side of the spine. Every day, your two kidneys filter on average 159 litres to produce about 1 or 2 litres of urine, composed of wastes and extra fluid. When kidneys do not function properly, people are given dialysis. Dialysis is a procedure to remove waste products and excess fluid from the blood when the kidneys stop working properly. It often involves diverting blood to a machine to be cleaned. Every week, more than 300 people have dialysis at one of four centres run by the Trust: the Royal Berkshire Hospital, the Dialysis Centre in Windsor, one in Bracknell, and the Berkshire Community Hospital. A dialysis at home service is also offered for some patients who are suitable. Nephrology is the branch

associated with Chronic Kidney Disease. n Reduce your salt intake: the of medicine that deals with the recommended salt intake is about physiology and diseases of the a teaspoon per day – this includes kidneys; the Trust has about 150 the salt in crisps, snacks or prepared specialist nurses and doctors in foods. its Nephrology team. Among the n Drink lots of water: although group of patients cared for are the clinical studies have not reached an 411 patients who have had kidney agreement on the ideal quantity of transplants at the hospital. water and other fluids, we should Kidney diseases are silent drink about 1.5 to 2 litres of water a killers, which will largely affect day – that’s 3 to 4 pints. Consuming your quality of life. There are eight plenty of fluid helps the kidneys clear easy ways to reduce the risk of toxins from the body which, in turn, developing kidney disease. results in a “significantly lower risk” of n Keeping fit helps to reduce your developing chronic kidney disease. blood pressure and therefore reduces n Give up smoking as smoking slows the risk of Chronic Kidney Disease. the flow of blood to the kidneys. Keep regular control of your blood When less blood reaches the kidneys, sugar level: about half of people who it impairs their ability to function have diabetes develop kidney damage, properly. Smoking also increases the so it is important for people with Ourriskmembership scheme a month of kidney cancer by about 50%.is available for diabetes to have regular tests to check n Do not take over-the-counter pills their kidney functions. on a regular basis: common drugs What is included? do not need to be dentally fit to join Kidney damage from diabetes can You such as ibuprofen are known to cause • 2 Examinations (including x-rays) but adamage new patient examination be reduced or prevented if detected BMSkidney and disease if taken is • 2 Hygienist visits early. It is important to keep control required regularly. before signing up. If treatment of blood sugar levels with the help Such medications probably do not • Accident & Emergency Insurance is needed during the 12 month contract of doctors or pharmacists, who are pose significant danger if your kidneys • 15% member discount on treatment a member discount of 15% is given. always happy to help. are relatively healthy and you use (excludes specialist and implant treatment) n Monitor your blood pressure: them for emergencies only, but if you although many people may be aware are dealing with chronic pain, such as that high blood pressure can lead to a arthritis or back pain, work with your stroke or heart attack, few know that doctor to find a way to control your it is also the most common cause of pain without putting your kidneys at kidney damage. risk.

Need to budget for regular dental visits?

For more information, please contact us on

only3815 £21 , 0118 978

visit our website at

www.beechcroftdental.com

or call into Beechcroft Dental Practice, 32 Station Road, Wokingham RG40 2AE and speak with one978 of 3815, our team. For more information, please contact us on 0118 visit our website at www.beechcroftdental.com or call into Beechcroft Dental Practice, 32 Station Road, Wokingham,

20 | PICTURE SPECIAL

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THEWOKINGHAMPAPER Friday, March 11, 2016

The Reddam Run 2016

Picture special by PHIL CREIGHTON

RESULTS 10Km O/All Pos 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70

Race No 658 618 664 635 647 605 668 661 591 648 641 597 663 637 598 614 590 645 593 595 636 610 592 628 644 626 629 655 613 650 643 665 659 667 589 617 631 646 630 622 627 620 625 155 649 634 619 633 612 638 660 657 621 654 656 662 603 651 611 652 653 639 642 599 600 640 616 615 623 609

Name Time Calum Hart 38.01 John Burnett 38.06 Shane Grove 38.24 Chris Moseley 38.32 Roanna Vickers 38.48 Rich Warner 39.19 Russel Robinson 39.19 Jamie Hayes 39.44 James Insley 41.52 Ian Moore 42.27 Gary Cooper 42.28 Anneliese Tomlinson 43.2 Dave Armstrong 43.55 Asim Munir 43.56 Eric Tomlinson 44 Paul Mackenzie 46.34 Paul Birchall 47.32 Darren Turner 47.4 Julian Brewer 48.36 Stephen Gilford 49.2 Jon Kempster 49.21 Andrew Howarth 49.22 David Forsythe 49.35 Mike Frizzell 49.44 Richard Percival 50.51 Melissa Lewis 52.02 Rizwan Nazir 52.5 Chris Webb 52.57 Karl Shepherd 53.09 David Mills 53.29 Sarah Taylor 54.1 Sophie Ware 54.28 Liam Webster 54.36 Richard Whitaker 54.37 Tori Pellow 54.4 Charlotte Parmenter 55.04 Mike Hurley 55.06 Andrew Turner 55.46 Paul Brooks 56.18 Melvin Randall 59.22 Teresa Romero 59.3 Laura Potter 59.54 Rita Dykes 60.22 Neil Carpenter 60.29 Brett Date 60.29 Luke Kendrick 60.53 Noe Nkala 61.03 Jennifer Atkins 62.15 Peter Jackson 62.3 Naomi Gibbins 63.01 Joanna Murray 63.23 Bev Henry 64.16 Joanne Middlemiss 64.17 Pip Durant 64.24 Jofi Alexander 67.12 Leeann Matthews 67.18 Joanna Speak 67.22 Katie Dover 67.27 Susan Howarth 67.27 Anna Woozley 68.06 Maria Williams 68.49 Greta Smith 69.04 Janet Weekes 69.04 Rebecca Riley 70.18 Lisa Jeffries 70.18 David Evans 70.45 Laura Carlaw 70.54 Sue Carlaw 70.56 Mike Thompson 75.35 Rena Ball 76.11

5km 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35

156 162 154 149 159 148 164 146 163 160 666 138 151 587 158 172 153 166 167 143 139 140 134 152 150 147 171 170 161 168 169 145 142 165 141

Simon Webster Joseph Howarth Vicki Taylor Joshua Taylor Ethan Guy Diane Turner Bob Finch Jasmine Shepherd Lucas Murray Oliver Guy Clare Bryant Shaun Taulbut Joanna Powley Alice Hill Joanna Guy Zara Allen Claire Cutting Denise Moore Liz Pattison Kerry Preston Caroline Gilford Katy Overton Cheryl Harrigan Charlotte Fraser Mary Percival Wendy Spencer Tony Mcqueen Rachel Greig Matthew Salter M Anderson L Anderson Rachel Slater Jennepher Salter Anna Glazer Alison Tennant

24.3 25.35 25.53 25.53 26.23 28.53 28.58 29.1 29.26 30.07 30.16 30.21 31.15 31.29 31.34 32.11 32.46 33.2 33.28 33.37 33.48 33.55 34.06 34.08 34.56 35.1 35.14 35.14 36.15 36.23 36.23 37.31 37.37 41.29 46.37

The route started and ended with a run uphill from the lake towards Reddam House

By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokinghampaper.co.uk HUNDREDS of people enjoyed a run in the spring sunshine thanks to Reddam House. The school, in Sindlesham, hosted the third annual 10km, 5km and 2km race on Sunday and saw all ages take part. For the off-road race, runners went through the grounds of the 125-acre complex, formerly known as Bearwood House. The course included wooded areas, playing fields and a 50-acre lake. The first race was the 5km and 10km – both set off together from Bearwood Lake, running up a hill towards Reddam House and then through the woods. Those opting for the longer race took part in two laps of the grounds. First home was Simon Webster, who ran the 5km in 24 minutes and three seconds. In the 10km race, a time of

38 minutes and 1 second was enough to see Calum Hart take the honours. A junior runner scooped gold in the family-friendly 2km race: Ben Morhall pipped his father by a second to come home in 9 minutes 31 seconds. Also taking part in the 2km were members of the Reddam House Berkshire Combined Cadet Force, who ran round the course pulling a field gun carriage. Timings were recorded by members Tadley Runners and sponsorship came from Foundation-sp, David Cliff and Fyffes. Proceeds from the event will be donated to The Children’s Trust, chosen by school students. The event was organised by Reddam House Bearwood Parents Association and they were Liam Webster has the finish line pointed out to him by Richard Whitaker

delighted with how it went. Anne Heath, a member of the Association, told The Wokingham Paper: “It’s been an amazing day. We’ve had more runners than we’ve had before. We had a perfect weather day in a magnificent setting with lots of very enthusiastic participants and volunteers. “We’re raising money for charity. The school’s motto is ‘we will give back’ so this is an event where we’ve got the kids from the school involved and the money’s going to The Children’s Trust, which is for children with brain injuries. It’s a charity that the students at Reddam have chosen.” “It was lovely to see so many younger children taking part in the 2km race – there’s been a lovely atmosphere for that one.” The team at Reddam are now planning next year’s event. Richard Percival knows he’s on the home straight Inset above: Ethan Guy celebrates coming home in the 5km

Eric Tomlinson (left) and Andrew Turner at the start

2km results overleaf The grounds of Reddam House made a beautiful backdrop for the races

Alice Hill at the start of the race

Clockwise from top left: Lucas Murray heads home in the 5km, followed by this young runner. In the 10km, Roanna Bickers was the first female home, while (above left) Chris Moseley checks his run time. Left: Runners including Clare Bryant are all smiles as they tackle the hill towards the finish line. Inset: The country route was muddy, as evidenced by these legs

PICTURE SPECIAL | 21

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Friday, March 11, 2016 THEWOKINGHAMPAPER

Running together are the Andersons

Children encourage Claire Cutting to the finish line during her 5km run

Everyone who completed the course received a medal Caroline Gilford tackles the hill to home

Nearly there! Runners tackle the hill that will take them to the finish line â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and their medal

Above: A victory wave from Denise Moore while (right) Zara Allen jogs over the line

Simon Webster was the first home in the 5km race

Calum Hart won the 10km race in 38.01

Above: Charlotte Fraser

We did it! Vicki and Joshua Taylor tied for third place in the 5km as they crossed the finish line together

Left: Joanna Guy Above: Shane Grove. Both are pictured coming home

Diane Turner sprints to the finish line

Chris Webb at the halfway stage of his 10km run

22 | PICTURE SPECIAL

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THEWOKINGHAMPAPER Friday, March 11, 2016

And we’re off! Participants in the 2km race set off on their run round the Reddam House grounds

Members of the Reddam House Berkshire Combined Cadet Force ran the 2km with a gun. From left: Calum, Brandon, Jess, Alex, Will and Jaime. The course went through the grounds of Reddam House including Bearwood Lakes

2Km O/All Pos 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62

Race No 54 57 42 6 65 67 64 28 52 53 5 7 15 66 21 26 41 49 56 61 60 40 50 32 43 32 18 19 24 25 16 55 39 45 44 17 13 70 71 69 47 46 59 58 10 8 170 51 48 35 36 38 37 1 3 33 31 26 27 29 2 4

Name Ben Morhall Simon Morhall Mitchell Woozley Scarlett Dean Jacob Gibbins James Olivia Gibbins Child Thornhill Finley Anderson M Anderson Grace Dean Stephen Dean Benjamin Salter Alexandra Charlotte Morris Zhenya Thornhill Amelia Woozley Oliver Yates Denise Moore Richard Whitaker Herbert Whitaker David Woozley Leo Yates Child Dat Neil Carpenter Child Dat Ellena Teague Lola-Bella Teague James Powley Andrew Powley Phebe Salter Brooke Moore Issie Dover Dexter Carpenter Harrison Carpenter Alex Sharp Jenny Salter Zac Eggington Holly Eggington Mike Eggington Cai Leyau Cai Chengyu Jamit Hayes Bethany Hayes Samantha Munden Vicki Heaver Rachel Greig Eloise Yates Sarah Yates Krishnapriya Lekha Shivani Kishor Aaryaa Awasthi Vandana Awasthi Clare D’souza Jasmine D’souza Child Dat Nur Dat Zhenya Thornhill Adult Thornhill Child Thornhill Ian D’souza James D’souza

Time 9.31 9.32 10.12 10.15 10.47 11.18 11.2 11.35 11.36 11.36 11.37 11.43 12.47 13.5 13.51 12.52 12.54 12.56 12.59 13.02 13.03 13.05 13.12 13.19 13.22 13.26 13.41 13.44 13.46 13.46 13.48 13.51 13.53 13.58 14.31 14.31 14.54 14.55 15.03 15.33 15.34 15.48 15.51 16.08 17.23 17.24 18 18 18.06 18.06 18.14 18.15 18.26 18.27 18.37 18.38 20.26 20.27 20.28 21.03 22.31 22.31

Pictures: PHIL CREIGHTON

First home was Ben Morhall (54) pictured left, behind him is Simon Morhall in second place. Above: Mitchell Woozley (42) beats Scarlett Dean (6) to third place

Grace Dean arrives at the finish line

Oliver Yates (49) comes home with son Leo (50)

A victory wave as this runner reaches the finishing line

Cai Leyau smiles as she reaches the end of the race Phebe Salter races to the line to get her medal

Home together: Charlotte Morris and Alexandra are spurred on to the finsh line

Alex Sharp and Jenny Salter also took part in the 10/5km races

Jacob Gibbins looks determined as he finishes

Looking cool in white is Benjamin Salter

Pets as Therapy dog Daisy enjoyed taking part in the run

Jasmine D’Souza heads for home in the 2km race

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Friday, March 11, 2016 THEWOKINGHAMPAPER

Leisure

LEISURE | 23

Your guide to what’s happening around Wokingham THEATRE

Swash steps in BRITAIN’S newest secret agent is off the leash … and ready for action in a fun-filled, family extravaganza for all the family this Easter. Your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to join Ashleigh and Pudsey, everyone’s favourite Britain’s Got Talent champions, for a brand new interactive spy adventure suitable for the whole family. Joining the cast is EastEnders actor Joe Swash who will keep audiences laughing with his unique blend of humour and mischief. K9 Intelligence Agents, Ashleigh & Pudsey must defeat their arch nemesis Dr Feline and his side-kick Karl, played by Joe, as well as acrobatic cat burglars – as they battle for world domination. With a fantastic array of gadgets, cars, jet packs and gizmos, the audience can help Ashleigh and Pudsey by finding clues, breaking codes, and solving puzzles. This fun-filled musical adventure comes to The Hexagon in Reading on Easter Monday, March 28 (3pm, 6.30pm) and Tuesday, March 29 (1.30pm and 4.30pm). Tickets cost £20, £17 for children. For details, call the box office on 0118 960 6060 or log on to www.readingarts.com

The Jigantics will be in Emmbrook next Friday night for the latest Wokingham Music Club event

MUSIC

Jig with the Jigantics

EXT Friday night, Wokingham’s Music Club returns with another night of great music. The club offers regular gigs featuring some of the best groups and a very eclectic mix of musical genres. Next Friday, the headliners will be The Jigantics. The group has been described as performing a fusion of blues, rock, folk and Americana. Organiser Stan Hetherington said: “As far as I am concerned they are great entertainers. “This will be a wonderful night of live music at our club. There will be something for everyone from a band

who provide an absolute masterclass in entertainment.” Supporting The Jigantics will be Irene Rae. Stan said: “She has a vivid imagination which is clear to see in any live performance from her. “She mixes emotional song writing and a powerful yet delicate vocal with entertaining and funny stories about life, love and places her travels have taken her.” The evening of music takes place at the Emmbrook Sports & Social, Lowther Road, Emmbrook from 7.45pm. Tickets are £10 in advance. It’s not the only music night coming up over the next few weeks. On Monday, February 4 they will

host a performance from folk and roots band Fred’s House as part of the club’s team-up with Artree Live. Then on Friday, April 15, The Fliks will return to Wokingham. The group closed Wokingham Festival last year and had the joint jumping as they sang an incredible selection of 60s songs. On Friday, May 13, Kiki Dee will perform with singing partner Carmelo Luhggeri. A week later, and as part of Wokingham’s month of culture, country music star Hank Wangford will be performing For more details on all these gigs or to book tickets, log on to the club’s website, www.wokinghammusicclub. co.uk.

REVIEW

Maybe it’s because I’m a Londoner… THE Wokingham Theatre are currently entertaining us with The London Cuckolds, a Restoration comedy directed by Anne Latto. Written by Edward Ravenscroft in 1681 the version performed by The Wokingham Theatre was adapted by Terry Johnson in 1998 where it was produced at the National Theatre on London’s South Bank. Johnson has made a fantastic job of making the play accessible to modern ears while retaining the comedy of the original. The plot is based on the social situation that, at the time, an unmarried man seeking sex only had recourse to a prostitute and the health issues that went with that, or, seeking out a married woman. The story revolves around three husbands: Wiseacres (Joe Haynes), Doodle (Jeremy Radburn) and Dashwell (Robin Newell) and their wives: Peggy (Jessica Mallett), Arabella (Rachel Pearson) and Eugenia (Gemma Burgess) and thrown into the mix, a couple of Lothario’s. Ramble (Lloyd White) who tries to snare all three women and invariable fails miserably and his friend Townley (Thomas Joy) who manages to follow in his wake and take advantage of the situation. The husbands believe that their wives can do no wrong, however, the wives are plotting and scheming behind their backs to find themselves a younger and more attractive love interest. Although The London Cuckolds has a number of strong female characters it certainly would not pass the Bechdel test.

Director Anne Latto on the set of the London Cuckolds

It’s difficult to point to any one actor as the cast were wonderful but I would be amiss not to give a shout out to the two younger members: Jessica Mallet who holds her own as one of the wives and Ben Squires who plays the Lamp Boy. Both are members of the Wokingham Youth Theatre. I was also ‘fan-girling’ when Rachel Pearson had centre stage. She was word perfect and spoke so quickly and smoothly that the witty repartee sounded like a rap. There were laugh out loud moments such as when Arabella had her husband neighing and jumping over benches like a horse to show his love to her, proving that the women had the

upper hand even if the men in their lives didn’t realise. The sets were simply and beautifully designed by Anne Latto and a sumptuous 17th century wardrobe by made by Kate Hughston and her team of talented tailors. The London Cuckolds by Edward Ravenscroft, adapted by Terry Johnson is at The Wokingham Theatre until tomorrow. All tickets are £10 and the curtain up is at 7.45pm. Performances have sold out but you can contact the box office to see if there have been any returned tickets. For details call 0118 978 5363 or email: boxoffice@wokinghamtheatre.org.uk

Your weekly puzzle challenge

24 | LEISURE

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Quiz Challenge

CROSS CODE 13

23 20

1. Which novel by J.P. Donleavy charts the racy misadventures of the book’s protagonist, Sebastian Dangerfield? 2. On which London thoroughfare did King James I keep his aviary? 3. Which chemical, with the formula H2O2, is used as an oxidant and bleaching agent? 4. Epistaxis is the medical name for which common complaint? 5. Which brand of beer did brewers Shepherd Neame advertise with the slogan: ‘Downed all over Kent, just like the Luftwaffe’?

19 10

14 14

10 5

23 25

7 4

14 22

26 26

1 3

3 10

10 12

NONAGRAM

2 10

Spell out a 15-letter word or phrase by moving from one chamber to another within the pyramid. You may only enter each of the chambers once and may only proceed O through openings in the walls. The F first letter may appear in any chamber. H T

E U D

ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ

W N R

Each number in our Cross Code grid represents a different letter of the alphabet. You have three letters in the control grid to start you off. Enter them in the appropriate squares in the main grid, then use your knowledge of words to work out which letters should go in the missing squares. As you get the letters, fill in other squares with the same number in the main grid and control grid. Check off the alphabetical list of letters as you identify them.

MAGIC SQUARE

ECHO HER PEACE POEM

How many words of four letters or more can you make from this Nonagram? Each word must use the central letter, and each letter may be used only once. At least one word using all nine letters can be found. Guidelines: 19 Good; 23 Very Good; 27 Excellent.

SUDOKU Easy

1 3

8 5 9

5 6 8 9 1 4 8 4

8 6

7 6 2 1 3 2 9 4 1 5 7 9 4

1 2

2 5

5 4 9 2 3 5 2 8 6 1

7 8

T O

O T

6 3

Here are two miniature fivesquare crosswords using the same grid – but the letters have been mixed up. You have to work out which letters belong to which crossword.

Place the four signs (add, subtract, multiply, divide) one in each circle so that the total of each across and down line is the same.

4 6

Perform the first calculation in each line first and ignore the mathematical law which says you should always perform division and multiplication before addition and subtraction.

All puzzles on this page are supplied by Sirius Media Services. To try more of our puzzles interactively online go to www.puzzledrome.com

EQUALISER 4 9 1 1 4 3 6 12 2 2 7 3

Hard

Each row and each column must contain the numbers 1 to 9, and so must each 3 x 3 box.

4 3 7 2 1

8 9 10 11

10 11

12 13

16 17

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

FIVE ALIVE

Any word found in the Concise Oxford Dictionary (Tenth Edition) is eligible with the following exceptions: proper nouns; plural nouns, pronouns and possessives; third person singular verbs; hyphenated words; contractions and abbreviations; vulgar slang words; variant spellings of the same word (where another variant is also eligible).

Using all 16 letters of the phrase above, form four words each of four letters which will fit in the grid to form a magic square in which the words can be read both horizontally and vertically.

6. In which joint of the human body would you find the trapezium bone? 7. English actor Kit Harrington is best known for playing the role of Jon Snow in which globally successful TV series? 8. Brontophobia is the irrational fear of what? 9. What are the chemical elements with the atomic numbers 9, 17, 35, 53 and 85 collectively known as? 10. Which fictional horse lived with Ginger and Merrylegs?

WORD PYRAMID

C O D

THEWOKINGHAMPAPER Friday, March 11, 2016

SOLUTIONS

ACROSS 1. Ruling out first hundred for the game (7) 8. Rain had frustrated the old emperor (7) 9. Salt is cheaper during offpeak hours, one hears (7) 10. Thus without us the oarsman becomes an illegal bowler (7) 11. Most unpleasant fruit is found in France (7) 12. Remarkable Utopian cactus (7) 14. Do not include Rex in extract (7) 18. Hops round with chilled water from the nursing home (7) 20. Nathan returns from Indian city with a figurine (7) 21. Falls right out of agrarian ploughing (7) 22. Pluckily played in this country, you hear, by the French twice (7) 23. Mug that’s sort of dark brown first (7)

DOWN 1. Travelling band’s organised trip? (9,4) 2. Toy snake? (6) 3. I’m taking a long time to produce a likeness (5) 4. Arrive at hospital in slum area (6) 5. Douro so awfully smelly (7) 6. Fool young insect with intelligence (6) 7. Maddening rate adjustment is much sought after (2,5,6) 13. One needs to be pressed to get a report! (7) 15. Unendingly seek information from a foreign agent (6) 16. Former island clan chief, a leader of troops (6) 17. Bounder in American intelligence unit finds an insect (6) 19. Bird takes in one country youth (5)

QUICK CROSSWORD 1

8 8

11 12

17 22

27 28

27. Musical interval ACROSS of an eighth (6) 1. Expensive (6) 4. Position, rank (6) 28. Mayhem (5) 29. Line on weather 8. Citrus fruit (6) map (6) 10. Funeral car (6) 30. Originate from (6) 11. Women’s 31. Pact (6) quarters (5) 32. Engraved (6) 12. Glorifies (6) 14. Unostentatious (6) DOWN 1. Cupboard (6) 16. Fully occupied (4) 2. Dung beetle (6) 17. Supplicate (4) 3. Ignites (6) 19. Prejudice (4) 5. Shudder (6) 22. Icy rain (4) 6. Domestic fowl (6) 26. Sleigh (6)

7. 9. 10. 13. 15. 18. 19. 20. 21. 22. 23.

Knife case (6) Simple (4) Cannabis (4) Crystal clear (5) Ship’s crane (5) Help (6) Ahead of (6) Appalled (6) Scorch (4) Cowl (4) Stress, emphasis (6) 24. Opulent (6) 25. Rely (6)

6 9 1 7 8 4 5 2 3

5 8 2 3 1 9 7 4 6

4 7 3 6 5 2 1 9 8

7 2 4 8 6 5 3 1 9

3 1 8 9 4 7 6 5 2

9 6 5 1 2 3 8 7 4

1 3 7 4 9 6 2 8 5

2 4 6 5 7 8 9 3 1

9 6 5 4 8 1 2 7 3

8 5 9 2 3 1 4 6 7

EASY SUDOKU

14 1

15 2

16 3

CROSS CODE

8 1 3 2 5 7 9 6 4

7 2 4 3 6 9 8 1 5

4 5 9 6 2 3 1 8 7

1 7 8 5 9 4 6 3 2

2 3 6 7 1 8 4 5 9

5 9 1 8 7 2 3 4 6

6 4 2 1 3 5 7 9 8

3 8 7 9 4 6 5 2 1

HARD SUDOKU

17 4

18 5

19 6

20 7

21 8

22 9

WORD PYRAMID: A tooth for a tooth. EQUALISER: Clockwise from top left – multiply; add; divide; subtract. Total: 5. MAGIC SQUARE: ache; crop; home; épée.

Q W

QUICK CROSSWORD: Across – 1 Costly; 4 Status; 8 Orange; 10 Hearse; 11 Harem; 12 Exalts; 14 Modest; 16 Busy; 17 Pray; 19 Bias; 22 Hail; 26 Sledge; 27 Octave; 28 Havoc; 29 Isobar; 30 Derive; 31 Treaty; 32 Etched. Down – 1 Closet; 2 Scarab; 3 Lights; 5 Tremor; 6 Turkey; 7 Sheath; 9 Easy; 10 Hemp; 13 Lucid; 15 Davit; 18 Assist; 19 Before; 20 Aghast; 21 Sear; 22 Hood; 23 Accent; 24 Lavish; 25 Depend.

6 Nitwit; 7 In great demand; 13 Trigger; 15 Consul; 16 Thanet; 17 conure; cornu; crud; crude; cued; curd; cure; cured; douce; dour; dude; Cicada; 19 Swain. dunce; dune; durn; durned; ecru; enduro; euro; nude; ounce; redound; rewound; roué; round; rounded; rudd; rude; rued; rune; udder; udon; unco; UNCROWDED; under; undo; unwed; wound; wounded.

Down – Cysts; Bound; Range. CRYPTIC CROSSWORD: Across – 1 Curling; 8 Hadrian; 9 Nitrate; 10 Thrower; 11 Ugliest; 12 (2) Across – Delta; Pinch; Dusts. Down – Doped; Links; Ashes. Opuntia; 14 Excerpt; 18 Hospice; 20 Tanagra; 21 Niagara; 22 Ukulele; 23 Tankard. NONAGRAM: Down – 1 Conducted tour; 2 Rattle; 3 Image; 4 Ghetto; 5 Odorous;

QUIZ CHALLENGE: 1 The Ginger Man; 2 Birdcage Walk; 3 Hydrogen peroxide; 4 Nose bleed; 5 Spitfire; 6 The wrist; 7 Game of Thrones; 8 Thunder; 9 Halogens; 10 Black Beauty.

(1) Across – Caber; Spurn; Sidle.

FIVE ALIVE:

What’s on Friday, March 11 FINCHAMPSTEAD – Library, FBC Centre RG40 4ES. Rhymetime for under fives. 11am. Details: 0118 908 8176. HARE HATCH – Floral Mile RG10 9SW. Paulo’s Circus. Details: 0702 1125454 or www.pauloscircus.co.uk SHINFIELD – Shinfield Players Theatre, Whitley Wood Lane RG2 9DF. Shinfield Players present Two Plays, One Evening: The Dumb Waiter and Something Unspoken. 7.45pm. Details: www.shinfieldplayers.org.uk LOWER EARLEY – Library, Chalfont Close, Chalfont Way RG6 5HZ. Pass The Book Club. 10.30am11.30am. Details: 0118 931 2150. WOKINGHAM – Library, Denmark Street RG40 2BB. Crochet Group with Gaynor White from Barkham Hookers. All abilities welcome. 9.30am-11.30am. £4. Local history surgery: drop-in advice with a local expert. 10am-noon. Details: 0118 978 1368. WOKINGHAM – Baptist Church, Milton Road. Made In Our Image: Pornography, Body Image and Young People. Includes live performance of Object and a panel discussion featuring the Revd Joanna Jepson. £10. 7.30pm. Details: soulscape.co.uk or 07464 069037.

Saturday, March 12 EARLEY – Earley Home Guard Social Club. Skittles evening. £1 per player, 50p for under 12s. 8pm. Details: www.ehgsc.co.uk or 0118 926 5936. FARLEY HILL – Victory Hall, Church Road RG7 1TR. Farley Hill Bowls Club race

night. 7pm. £6. Details: 01344 772130. HARE HATCH – Floral Mile RG10 9SW. Paulo’s Circus. Details: 0702 1125454 or www.pauloscircus.co.uk HENLEY – Christ Church, Reading Road RG9 1AG. Tamesis Chamber Choir: Six Sacred Songs. £12, £8 concessions. Details: 0118 934 3200. LOWER EARLEY – Library, Chalfont Close, Chalfont Way RG6 5HZ. Dad and Baby Rhymetime. 10.30am-11am. Patchwork Workshops - 1: Make your own mug cosy, cushion or iPad cover. 10am-noon. £5. Details: 0118 931 2150. SHINFIELD – Shinfield Players Theatre, Whitley Wood Lane RG2 9DF. Shinfield Players present Two Plays, One Evening: The Dumb Waiter and Something Unspoken. 7.45pm. Details: www.shinfieldplayers.org.uk WOKINGHAM – Theatre, Twyford Road RG40 5TU. Wokingham Theatre presents The London Cuckolds. Details: www. wokingham-theatre.org.uk WOKINGHAM – All Saints Church, Wiltshire Road RG40 1UE. The A440 Choir in concert. 7.30pm. £12. Details: www. wokinghamconcerts.co.uk. WOKINGHAM – Library, Denmark Street RG40 2BB. Teen writing group for ages 11-18. 10.30am-noon. Poetry Writing Group for adults. 10am-11.30am. Book binding workshop. 10am-3pn. £3. Details: 0118 978 1368. WOODLEY – Coronation Hall, Headley Road RG5 4JB. Thames Valley Ancient Egypt Society Lecture. Foreign Connections : Egypt and the outside world before the New Kingdom. Dr Garry Shaw on new insights into warfare, trade

LEISURE | 25

To advertise call 0118 328 2959

Friday, March 11, 2016 THEWOKINGHAMPAPER

Holding a community event? Send your listings to events@wokinghampaper.co.uk

The best guide for local, community events across Wokingham borough and diplomacy. Members free, visitors £3. 2pm4.30pm. Details: 01491 838803.

Sunday, March 13 GRAZELEY – Village Hall. Car boot sale. 9am-1pm, £7 outside sellers, £9 inside stalls, Free parking. Details: 0118 983 3132. HARE HATCH – Floral Mile RG10 9SW. Paulo’s Circus. Details: 0702 1125454 or www. pauloscircus.co.uk SINDLESHAM – Bearwood Lake Golf Course, Bearwood Lakes RG41 4SJ. Wedding Showcase noon-3pm. Details: 0118 979 7900. WOODLEY – Town Centre. Car boot sale. 8am-1pm. £10 per Car or £8 for table top pitch/Walk on, bring own tables. Details: 07861 654 674 or www. woodleytowncentre.co.uk. WOODLEY – Library, Headley Road RG5 4JA. French Conversation Club for those with basic French knowledge. 2pm-3pm. Details: 0118 969 0304.

Monday, March 14 BRACKNELL – Bracknell Open Learning Centre, Rectory Lane RG12 7GR. Bracknell Camera Club meeting: A Window On The World. 7.30pm. Details: www. bracknell-camera-club. co.uk. BRACKNELL – Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way. Federation of Small Business seminar: Get Value for Money. 7pm. Details: MAIDEN ERLEGH – Library, off Silverdale Road RG6 7HS. Colouring For Adults. 2.15pm-3pm. Details: 0118 966 6630. SPENCERS WOOD – Library, Basingstoke Road RG7 1AJ.

Storytime for ages 3-5. 4pm. Details: 0118 988 4771. WARGRAVE – Library, Woodclyffe Hostel, Church Street RG10 8EP. Storytime: stories and rhymes for under fives. 4pm-4.30pm. 10.30am-noon. Details: 0118 940 4656. WOKINGHAM – Library, Denmark Street RG40 2BB. Knit Stitch and Natter: drop-in session, all abilities welcome. 2pm-3pm. First Steps in Drawing with Lyn Ebbett: Session 3: Spring flowers. 2pm-4pm. £5. Details: 0118 978 1368.

Tuesday, March 15 EARLEY – Palmer Building, University of Reading Whiteknights Campus RG6 2AH. Reading Film Theatre presents: The Martian (12a) plus talk. 7.15pm. £5 members, £8 nonmembers, £7 concessions. Membership £20. Details: 0118 378 7151 or readingfilmtheatre.co.uk. EARLEY – St Peter’s Church Hall, Church Road. East Reading Horticultural Society meeting: 75th anniversary lecture with Tom Hart-Dyke: Plant Adventures in South America. 7.45pm. Details: www.erhs.org.uk or 0118 926 7606. WOKINGHAM – Methodist Church, Rose Street RG40 1XS. Wokingham Art Society Meeting: Wendy Jelbert: Using Texture with Acrylics. 7.30pm. £4, includes refreshments. Details: www.wokinghamartsociety. org.uk. WOKINGHAM – St Paul’s Parish Rooms, Reading Road, Wokingham. Wokingham Evening Townswomen’s Guild AGM and talk by local poet Jean

Hill. All welcome. 7.30pm. Details: 0118 989 2649. WOKINGHAM – Library, Denmark Street RG40 2BB. Storytime: stories and rhymes for parents and children to enjoy. For ages 3-5. 4pm-4.30pm. Third Tuesday Group. Group meets to discuss new books, bestsellers and favourites. 10.30am-11.30am. National Careers Service: Advice sessions to help you with career planning, CVs and interviews. 9.40am-3.40pm. UK Online: Help and support with computers and the internet for beginners. 2pm-4pm. Details: 0118 978 1368. WOODLEY – Library, Headley Road RG5 4JA. Crochet Group with Gaynor White from Barkham Hookers. All abilities welcome. Noon2pm. £4. Crafts and Laughs. 2pm-4pm. Details: 0118 969 0304. WOOSEHILL – Woosehill Church, Chestnut Avenue RG41 3RS. Lent Course 2016: The Psalms: Prayers For Today’s Church. 8pm9.30pm. Details: 0118 979 2122.

Wednesday, March 16 EARLEY – Our Lady of Peace Social Club, Wokingham Road RG6 7DA (entrance off Aldbourne Avenue). Quiz Night. 8.30pm. Details: 0118 935 2927. FINCHAMPSTEAD – Library, FBC Centre RG40 4ES. Book group. 10.30am11.30am. Details: 0118 908 8176. WARGRAVE – Library, Woodclyffe Hostel, Church Street RG10 8EP. Crafts and Laughs. 1.30pm-3.30pm. Details: 0118 940 4656. WOKINGHAM – Library, Denmark Street RG40 2BB. Rhymetime for toddlers:

18 months-3 years. 11am11.30am. Details: 0118 978 1368. WOODLEY – Town Centre. Farmers’ Market. 9am-4pm. Details: 0118 921 6920 or www.woodleytowncentre. co.uk. WOODLEY – Library, Headley Road RG5 4JA. National Careers Service. Advice for your CV and career planning. 10am-5pm. Details: 0118 969 0304.

Thursday, March 17 EARLEY – Palmer Building, University of Reading Whiteknights Campus RG6 2AH. Reading Film Theatre presents: Spotlight (15). 7.45m. £5 members, £8 non-members, £7 concessions. Membership £20. Details: 0118 378 7151 or readingfilmtheatre. co.uk. EARLEY – Our Lady of Peace Social Club, Wokingham Road RG6 7DA (entrance off Aldbourne Avenue). St Patrick’s Day celebration. 7pm. Irish stew £2. Details: 0118 935 2927. LOWER EARLEY – Trinity Church, Chalfont Close RG6 5HZ. Chalfont social afternoon: The birth of a nation: Australia, a talk by Macolm Nelson. £1. 2pm. Details: 0118 931 3124. LOWER EARLEY – Library, Chalfont Close, Chalfont Way RG6 5HZ. Board Games Club. 10am-11am. Storytime for ages 3-5. 2.30pm-3pm. Details: 0118 931 2150. SPENCERS WOOD – Library, Basingstoke Road RG7 1AJ. Crafts and Laughs. 3pm-4pm. Details: 0118 988 4771. WINNERSH – Library, The Forest School, Robin Hood Lane RG41 5ND. Keep Calm and Fly Casual: Club

AT THE THEATRE

Basingstoke – The Anvil www.anvilarts.org.uk 01256 844244 The Moscow State Circus. Thurs-Fri. Sean Taylor. Fri. 80s Invasion Tour. Sat. Philharmonia at the Movies. Sun. Berkshire Maestros. MonWed. Brendan Cole. Sat 19. Marry Waterson and David A Jaycock. Sat 19. Basingstoke Symphony Orchestra. Sun 20.

Basingstoke – The Haymarket www.anvilarts.org.uk 01256 844244 Dealer’s Choice. Wed-Sat 19.

Bracknell – South Hill Park www.southhillpark.org.uk 01344 484123 Crowthorne Musical Players present Calamity Jane. Until Sat. Bracknell Jazz: Simon Allen. Fri. The Comedy Cellar. Fri. Artree Live: Folk and Roots Music. Sat. London Military Band. Sun. Mission Improbable. Sun. Romesh Ranganathan: Irrational. Tues. At Your Services. Wed-Sat 19. Pasdena Roof Orchestra. Wed. Navi, King of Pop. Thurs. Charlotte Hoather and George Todica: Conservatoire Concert

Series. Fri 18. The Comedy Cellar. Fri 18. Caribbean Crush Masterclass. Sat 19. Hip Hop Masterclass. Sat 19. Contemporary/Performance masterclass. Sat 19. Lift Off Youth and Community Galas. Sat 19. Berkshire Young Dance Artist of the Year. Sun 20. Creative Control Band Night. Sun 20. FILM: Victor Frankenstein. Fri. The Danish Girl. Fri-Sat. Spectre. Sat-Sun. Carol. Mon. Comme Un Avion. Tues. Creed. Thurs-Fri. The Revenant. Fri-Sun.

Camberley – Theatre www.camberleytheatre.biz 01276 707600 The Savoy Singers Present WS Gilbert and Arthur Sullivan’s Princess Ida. Until Sat. Chris Ramsey. Wed.

Didcot – Cornerstone www.cornerstone-arts.org 01235 515144 Skerryvore. Fri. Jenny Eclair: How To Be A Middle Aged Woman (Without Going Insane). Sat. Little Shop of Horrors. Tues-Wed. Hackney Colliery Band. Fri 18. Dracula: The Kisses. Sat 19. Cinderella Green The Recycling Queen. Sun 20.

Guildford – Yvonne Arnaud www.yvonne-arnaud.co.uk

01483 440000 Our House. Sat-Sat 19.

Henley – Kenton www.kentontheatre.co.uk 01491 575698 The Constant Wife. Until Sat. Henley Youth Festival. Wed-Sat 19.

High Wycombe – Swan www.wycombeswan.co.uk 01494 512000 Horrible Histories: Incredible Invaders. Until Sat. Mark Beaumont - Africa Solo. Sun. Ray Mears. Tues.

Maidenhead – Norden Farm www.nordenfarm.org 01628 788997 Rory McGrath Remembers (or is it forgets). Fri. The Dime Notes. Fri. Dane Baptiste: Reasonable Doubts. Sat. George Egg Anarchist Cook. Sun. Mitch Benn: Don’t Believe A Word. Fri 18. Maidenhead Drama Festival. Tues-Sat 19. Fred’s House. Sat 19. Festival of Choirs. Sun 20. The Vinyl Frontier: David Bowie SOLD OUT. Sun 20. FILM: Youht (15). Wed-Thurs. Spotlight. Fri 18.

Newbury – The Corn Exchange

www.cornexchangenew.com 0845 5218 218 The Witches. Until Sat. Bolshoi Encore: Spartacus. Sun. Opus 7. Tues. Barb Jungr. Wed. Sing-a-long-a Dirty Dancing. Thurs. Cafe Concert: Bernstein Revealed. Fri 18. Jongleurs Comedy Club. Fri 18. JS Bach’s St John’s Passion. Sat 19. Simon Weston. Sat 19. FILM: Carol (15). Until Sat. The Martian (12a). Until Sat. Room (15). Until Sun. Amy (15). Until Sun. 45 Years (15). Until Sun. Steve Jobs (15). Until Tues. Mad Max: Fury Road 2D (15). Until Tues. Creed (12a). Until Wed. Spotlight (15). Until Thurs. The Revenant (15). Until Thurs. Bridge of Spies (12a). Until Thurs.

Newbury – Watermill www.watermill.org.uk 01635 46044 Romeo and Juliet. Until Apr 2.

Reading – South Street www.readingarts.com 0118 960 6060 Gary Delaney: There’s Something About Gary. Fri. Adem + Support. Sat. Made In China: Tonight I’m Gonna Be The New Me. Wed. Andy Smith and Fuel presents The Preston Bill. Thurs. Poet’s Cafe: John Foggins. Fri 18. Third Friday Blues: Mark Harrison. Fri 18. Voodoo Room: Paying Tribute to Hendrix and Cream. Sat 19.

for players of the X Wing Miniatures Game, Star Wars and Armada. 16+. 5.30pm7.45pm. Winnersh Book Group. 7pm-8pm. Details: 0118 979 7519. WOKINGHAM – Baptist Church, Milton Road. Wokingham Literary Society meeting: Members evening: Aspects of Love. £2.50 nonmembers. 7.30pm. Details: 0118 978 6782. WOKINGHAM – The Cornerstone, Norreys Avenue RG40 1UE. Wokingham and East Berkshire Camera Club (WEBCC) meeting: Internal competition. 7.30pm. Details: 0118 977 5670. WOKINGHAM – Library, Denmark Street RG40 2BB. Book chat for adults. 10.30am-11.30am. Classics Book Group: for lovers of Dickens, Austen etc. 6.30pm-7.30pm. National Careers Service: Advice sessions to help you with career planning, CVs and interviews. 9.40am-3.40pm. Details: 0118 978 1368.

Friday, March 18 BRACKNELL – Priestwood Community Centre, Priestwood Court Road RG42 1TU. Berks Family History Society Bracknell & Wokingham Branch meeting. A talk on The Hearth Tax with emphasis on Berkshire with Jameson Wooders. Free. 7.15pm. Details: bracknell@berksfhs. org.uk EARLEY – Our Lady of Peace Social Club, Wokingham Road RG6 7DA (entrance off Aldbourne Avenue). Reading and Wokingham Spanish Circle meeting: Los Becadoes de San Francisco, by Jon Roberts. 7.45pm. £3. Details, 0118 977 2569 or 0118 979 2458. FINCHAMPSTEAD – Library,

Reading – The Hexagon www.readingarts.com 0118 960 6060 Fascinating Aida’s Dillie Keane. Fri. Next Level: Christian youth conference. Sat. Henley Symphony Orchestra. Sun. The Stranglers. Tues. Anton and Erin: Just Gotta Dance. Thurs. Ed Byrne: Outside, Looking In. Fri 18. Real Vintage and the Good Food Market. Sat 19. WASMA Concert. Sun 20.

Reading – Concert Hall www.readingarts.com 0118 960 6060 Bradfield College Spring Concert. Fri 18. Age UK: Classical Concert: The Voyage. Sat 19.

Reading – Progress Theatre www.progresstheatre.co.uk 0118 384 2195 Marat/Sade. Mon-Sat 19.

FBC Centre RG40 4ES. Under fives rhymetime. 11am. Details: 0118 908 8176. WOKINGHAM – Library, Denmark St RG40 2BB. Crochet Group with Gaynor White from Barkham Hookers. All abilities welcome. 9.30am11.30am. £4. Cribbage and card games club. 10.30am. Local history surgery: drop-in advice. 10am-noon. Wokingham VIP group: book group for visually impaired. 2pm-4pm. Details: 0118 978 1368.

Saturday, March 19 BINFIELD – St Mark’s Church, Popeswood Road RG42 4AH. Thames Voyces: Fauré’s Requiem. £12, £10 concessions, under 16s free. Details: 0118 967 7319. MAIDEN ERLEGH – Library, off Silverdale Road RG6 7HS. Children’s Writing Group for ages 9-12. 10.15am11am. Storytime for ages seven and under. 10.15am10.45am. Craft time for ages two to five. 10.45am11.15am. £1. Details: 0118 966 6630. READING – Concert Hall, Blagrave Street RG1 1QH. Charity concert: The Voyage, performed by Phoenix Choir, Berkshire Youth Choir, BBC Berkshire Choir and Berkshire Maestros Academy Chamber Ensemble. £12. Details: 0766 103427. WOKINGHAM – Town Hall. Town councillors’ surgery. 10am-noon. Drop-in. Details: 0118 978 3185 or www.wokingham-tc.gov.uk. WOKINGHAM – Library, Denmark Street RG40 2BB. Teen writing group for ages 11-18. 10.30am-noon. Wokingham Writers Group for adults. 10am. Details: 0118 978 1368.

Waiter and Something Unspoken. Until Sat.

Sonning – The Mill www.millatsonning.com 0118 969 8000 The Perfect Murder. Until Sat. Storytime: Duck In The Truck. Wed. Last of the Red Hot Lovers. Wed-May 7.

Windsor – Royal www.theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk 01753 853888 Coppelia. Until Sat. Kevin’s Gert Big Laughter Show. Sun. Showstopper: The Improvised Musical. Mon-Wed.

Woking – New Victoria www.ambassadortickets.com 0844 871 7645 The Last Tango. Until Sat. Hairspray The Musical. Tues-Sat 19. That’ll Be The Day. Sun 20.

Wokingham – Theatre

www.stbartstheatre.org 07737 477193 Eclipse. Sat-Sun.

www.wokingham-theatre.org.uk 0118 978 5363 The London Cuckolds. Until Sat. NEXT SHOW: Hactivists/Chatroom. April 12-16.

Shinfield – Players

Woodley – Theatre

www.shinfieldplayers.org.uk 0118 975 8880 Two Plays – One Evening: The Dumb

www.woodleytheatre.org 07939 210121 NEXT SHOW: Raving. April 19-23.

Reading – St Barts

26 | LEISURE

To advertise email advertising@wokinghampaper.co.uk

Gig guide Friday, March 11 BAGSHOT – The Cedar Tree, High Street GU19 5AG.T Roze and Co. Details: 01276 473160. BINFIELD – Binfield Club, Forest Road RG42 4DU. Whozdrivin. Details: 01344 420572. BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF. Hidden Agenda. Details: 01344 303333. BRACKNELL – South Hill Park, Ringmead. Bracknell Jazz: Simon Allen plus support. Details: 01344 484123. BRACKNELL – The Royal Oak, London Road RG12 2NN. The Mays. Details: 01344 422622. CAMBERLEY – The Four Horseshoes, Frimley Road GU15 3EQ. Ma Might. Details: 01276 63842. FARNBOROUGH – The Alexandra, Victoria Road GU14 7PH. Herbie Duoh. Details: 01252 519964. FINCHAMPSTEAD – The Queen’s Oak, Church Lane RG40 4LS. Daryl Gould. Details: 0118 973 4855. FLEET – The Falkners Arms, Falkners Close GU51 2XF. Lost Roberts. Details: 01252 811311. GORING – The Village Hall, High Street. Gap Gig: jazz night featuring Alec Dankworth’s Spanish Accents. Details: 01491 874492. LITTLEWICK GREEN – The Novello, Bath Road SL6 3RX. Lea Lyle Quartet. Details: 01628 825753. READING – RISC, London Street RG1 4PS. Greg Mayston Trio. Details: 0118 958 6692. READING – Sub89, Friar Street RG1 1EP. Sundara Karma and Beach Baby. Wiley. Details: 0118 959 5395. READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. Influences: A night of bass music. Details: 0118 959 7196. READING – The Red Lion, Southampton Street RG1

2QL. Red Lion Rock: Gli Avanzi. Details: 0118 958 2797. SANDHURST The White Swan, Swan Lane GU47 9BU. The Cherries. Details: 01252 872444. WOKINGHAM – Hope and Anchor, Station Road RG40 2AD. Nicky Booty and friends. Details: 0118 978 0918. WOKINGHAM – Broad Street Tavern, Broad Street RG40 1AU. Nine Mile Riders. Details: 0118 978 0918. WOKINGHAM – The Molly Millar, Station Road RG40 2AD. 70s, 80s night with DJ Mally. Details: 0118 977 4548. WOKINGHAM – The Red Lion, Market Place RG40 1AL. Ultimate Party Nights. Details: 0118 979 5790. WOKINGHAM – Spin Nightclub, Alexandra Court RG40 2SL. Frisky Fridays. Details: 07415 354056. YATELEY – Blackwater Valley Golf Centre, Sean Deveraux Park GU46 7SZ. Poppy’s Folk & Acoustic club presents: Alison Frosdick and Jack Burnaby. Details: www.poppyfolk.co.uk

Saturday, March 12 ASCOT – Jagz, Station Road. Frank The Cat. Details: 01344 878100. BAGSHOT – The White Hart, Guildford Road GU19 5JW. Chris Banderas. Details: 01276 473640. BINFIELD – Binfield Club, Forest Road RG42 4DU. Whozdrivin. Details: 01344 420572. BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF. The Beat Goes On. Details: 01344 303333. BRACKNELL – South Hill Park, Ringmead. Airtree Live: Folk and Roots Music. Details: 01344 484123. BRACKNELL – The Silver Birch, Liscombe RG12 7DE. The Serial Thrillers. Details: 01344 457318.

THEWOKINGHAMPAPER Friday, March 11, 2016

HOLDING A GIG, QUIZ OR GAMES NIGHT? SEND DETAILS TO EVENTS@WOKINGHAMPAPER.CO.UK CAMBERLEY – Mr Bumble, GU17 9AP. Replicant. Details: 01276 32691. CAMBERLEY – The Royal Standard, Frimley Road GU15 2PP. The Lee Aaron Band. Details: 01276 27641. FARNBOROUGH – The Ivy Leaf Social Club, Cove Road GU14 0HF. The Replays. Details: 01252 542962. FARNBOROUGH – The Alexandra, Victoria Road GU14 7PH. Phil and Al. Details: 01252 519964. FINCHAMPSTEAD – The Queen’s Oak, Church Lane RG40 4LS. Daryl Gould. Details: 0118 973 4855. FLEET – The Falkners Arms, Falkners Close GU51 2XF. The Cobbles. Details: 01252 811311. FLEET – The Harlington, Fleet Road GU51 4BY. King of Pop: The Legend Continues, starring Navi. Details: 01252 811009. FRIMLEY GREEN – Frimley Green Working Mens Club, Sturt Road GU16 6HX. Murphy James. Details: 01252 835322. READING – South Street. Adem Returns. Details: 0118 960 6060. READING – RISC, London Street RG1 4PS. DJ Dom. Details: 0118 958 6692. READING – Grosvenor Casino Reading, Rose Kiln Lane RG2 0SN. The Ed Sheeran Songbook with Jack Bowater. Details: 0118 402 7800. READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. Alan Clayson and the Argonauts. BattleActs: Improv Comedy five-star show. Sound Jam. Details: 0118 959 7196 READING – The Turks, London Road RG1 5BJ. The Corsairs. Details: 0118 957 6930. READING – The Red Lion, Southampton Street RG1 2QL. Red Lion Rock: Third Lung. Details: 0118 958 2797. SANDHURST – The Rose and Crown, High Street GU47 8HA. Said and Done. Details: 01252 878938. SANDHURST – Wellington Arms, Yorktown Road GU47 9BN. The Miller Family. Details: 01252 872408. WEST END – West End Social Club, High Street GU26 9PL. The Scallywags. Details: 01276 858501. WOKINGHAM – Hope and Anchor, Station Road RG40 2AD. Motown Night.

Details: 0118 978 0918. WOKINGHAM – The Molly Millar, Station Road RG40 2AD. 70s, 80s night with DJ Mally. Details: 0118 977 4548. WOKINGHAM – The Red Lion, Market Place RG40 1AL. Ultimate Party Nights. Details: 0118 979 5790. WOKINGHAM – Spin Nightclub, Alexandra Court RG40 2SL. Essential Saturday. Details: 07415 354056. YATELEY – The Dog and Partridge, The Green GU46 7LR. Leech. Details: 01252 870648.

Sunday, March 13 ASCOT – Jagz, Station Road. Sunday lunch jazz: Alison Neal with the Leon Greening Trio. Details: 01344 878100. READING – The Abbot Cook, Kings Road RG1 5DE. Sunday jazz: Stuart Henderson Trio. 2.30pm. Details: 0118 935 4095. READING – RISC, London Street RG1 4PS. American Old Time Picking. Details: 0118 958 6692. READING – RISC, London Street RG1 4PS. Readifolk: Theme Night – Fish and Ships. Details: 0118 958 6692. READING – Sub89, Friar Street RG1 1EP. Section Boyz. Details: 0118 959 5395.

Tuesday, March 15 READING – The Hexagon. The Stranglers. Details: 0118 960 6060. READING – RISC, London Street RG1 4PS. Fleur Stevens Jazz Singers night. Details: 0118 958 6692. WOKINGHAM – Baranda, Peach Street RG40 1XG. Neil Diamond tribute act: Bod Drury. Details: 0118 977 6100.

Wednesday, March 16 BRACKNELL – South Hill Park, Ringmead. Pasadena Roof Orchestra. Details: 01344 484123. FLEET – The Harlington, Fleet Road GU51 4BY. An Evening With Simon Callow: Oneman Band. Details: 01252 811009. FLEET – Propaganda Music Canteen, Fleet Road GU51 3BU. Coyote. Details: 01252 620198.

The BROAD ST TAVERN

LIVE MUSIC EVERY FRIDAY NIGHT MARCH 17

MARCH 18

ST PATRICK’S PINKFISH DAY FEEL-GOOD TRACKS OPEN MIC FROM THE 50’S TO TODAY NIGHT COME AND JOIN US! 29 Broad Street, Wokingham RG40 1AU 0118 977 3706 WWW.BROADSTREETTAVERN.CO.UK

The Bear Blues Band will be performing a charity gig at Arborfield British Legion next Saturday READING – RISC, London Street RG1 4PS. Bohemian Night. Details: 0118 958 6692. READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR.BBC Introducing LIVE: Tom Dunne, Bare Traps and Vinyl Staircase. Details: 0118 959 7196 STOKE ROW – Crooked Billet RG9 5PU. St Patrick’s Night celebration. Details: 01491 681048. TWYFORD – The Golden Cross, Waltham Road RG10 9EG. Open Mic night with Damian Delahunty. Details: 07946 342551.

9EA. Jazz night: Ade Holland Quartet. Details: 0118 988 4130. SUNNINGDALE – Sunningdale Lounge, London Road SL5 0DG. Remix. Details: 01344 876887. WHITE WALTHAM – White Waltham and Shottesbrooke Social Club, Hurst Lane SL6 3JJ. Monthly Jam night with The Jukesters. Details: 0118 934 3785. WOKINGHAM – Broad Street Tavern, Broad Street RG40 1AU. Open mic for St Patrick’s Day. Details: 0118 978 0918.

Thursday, March 17

Friday, March 18

BRACKNELL – South Hill Park, Ringmead. Navi King of Pop. Details: 01344 484123. CAMBERLEY – Mr Bumble, GU17 9AP. Jam Night. Details: 01276 32691. CROWTHORNE – The Prince, High Street RG45 7AZ. Goldeneye. Details: 01344 772241. FLEET – Propaganda Music Canteen, Fleet Road GU51 3BU. Will.i.an. Details: 01252 620198. HENLEY – Magoos, Hart Street. Stars In Their Minds karaoke. Details: 01491 574595. READING – O’Neills, Friar Street RG1 1BD. Open mic night. Details: 0118 960 6580. READING – South Street. Andy Smith and Fuel presents The Preston Bill. Details: 0118 960 6060. READING – RISC, London Street RG1 4PS. Jamie Howell’s Evidence Bass. Details: 0118 958 6692. SHINFIELD – Magpie and Parrot, Arborfield Road RG2

BAGSHOT – The Cedar Tree, High Street GU19 5AG. Utter Madness. Details: 01276 473160. BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF. Dolly Parton Cabaret Night. Details: 01344 303333. CAMBERLEY – The Four Horseshoes, Frimley Road GU15 3EQ. Tony Barker and Keith Chilvers. Details: 01276 63842. CAMBERLEY – The Royal Standard, Frimley Road GU15 2PP. Fuzz Universe. Details: 01276 27641. CAMBERLEY – The Royal Swan, London Road GU17 9AA. Inside Track. Details: 01276 31560. EMMBROOK – Sports and Social Club, Lowther Road RG41 1JB. Wokingham Music Club presents The Jigantics. Details: wokinghammusicclub.co.uk FARNBOROUGH – The Alexandra, Victoria Road GU14 7PH. The Weathertop

HOPE & ANCHOR Free entry, fantastic beers & a great night out! Tonight @ 9pm

WEY NICKY BOOTY LIVE Playing originals and covers MUSIC Saturday

MOTOWN NIGHT

Fri 18 IN TOO DEEP Rock covers band

Station Road, Wokingham RG40 2AD 0118 978 0918 www.hopeanchor.co.uk

Preachers. Details: 01252 519964. FLEET – The Fox and Hounds, Crookham Road GU51 5NP. Stealers Bluff. Details: 01252 663686. PLAYHATCH – The Flowing Spring, Henley Road RG4 9RB. Baron Manfred Von Landlord and His Flying Circus: LIVE. Details: 0118 969 9878. READING – The Roebuck, Auckland Road RG6 1NY. The Vinyl Covers. Details: 0118 966 3305. READING – South Street. Third Friday Blues: Mark Harrison. Details: 0118 960 6060. READING – RISC, London Street RG1 4PS. Jewels and the Jacuzzis. Details: 0118 958 6692. READING – Sub89, Friar Street RG1 1EP. Tragedy! An all metal tribute to the Bee Gees. Details: 0118 959 5395. READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. Junction Music: Tanch, Osiris, Rez, Tizzy J, Atilla. Dark Matter: Hannah Wild. Details: 0118 959 7196 WOKINGHAM – Hope and Anchor, Station Road RG40 2AD. In Too Deep. Details: 0118 978 0918. WOKINGHAM – Broad Street Tavern, Broad Street RG40 1AU. Pinkfish. Details: 0118 978 0918. WOKINGHAM – The Molly Millar, Station Road RG40 2AD. 70s, 80s night with DJ Mally. Details: 0118 977 4548. WOKINGHAM – The Red Lion, Market Place RG40 1AL. Ultimate Party Nights. Details: 0118 979 5790. WOKINGHAM – Spin Nightclub, Alexandra Court RG40 2SL. Frisky Fridays. Details: 07415 354056. YATELEY – The Cricketers, Cricket Hill Lane GU46 6BA. Glen Cooper. Details: 01252 872105.

Saturday, March 19 ARBORFIELD – Arborfield Royal British Legion, Eversley Road. RG2 9PR. The Bear Blues Band night in aid of Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal. Details: 0118 976 0432. ASCOT – Jagz, Station Road. John James Newman Band. Details: 01344 878100. BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, Market Street RG12 1JG. The Warehouse Soul night. Details: www. theacousticcouch.co.uk BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF. Mirrorball. Details: 01344 303333. BRACKNELL – South Hill Park, Ringmead. Caribbean Crush Masterclass. Hip Hop Masterclass. Details: 01344 484123. CAMBERLEY – Mr Bumble, GU17 9AP. The New Ambassadors. Details: 01276 32691. FARNBOROUGH – The Ivy Leaf Social Club, Cove Road GU14 0HF. Continuum. Details: 01252 542962. FARNBOROUGH – The Alexandra, Victoria Road

GU14 7PH. Zak. Details: 01252 519964. FARNBOROUGH GREEN – The Fox, Chapel Lane GU14 9BN. Shakin’ A Round. Details: 01276 34735. FLEET – The Falkners Arms, Falkners Close GU51 2XF. The Mushrooms. Details: 01252 811311. FLEET – The Fox and Hounds, Crookham Road GU51 5NP. The Miller Family. Details: 01252 663686. READING – The Jolly Anglers, Kennetside RG1 3EA. The Jason Hendrix Experience. Details: 0118 376 7823. READING – South Street. Voodoo Room. Details: 0118 960 6060. READING – RISC, London Street RG1 4PS. Hugh Turner Heavy Quartet. Details: 0118 958 6692. READING – The Turks, London Road RG1 5BJ. Highwasters. Details: 0118 957 6930. READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. Speakbeats: Spoken Word with Amy Neilson Smith and Andrea Spisto. SoundJam. Details: 0118 959 7196 READING – O’Neills, Friar Street RG1 1BD. No Way Out. Details: 0118 960 6580. SUNNINGDALE – The Royal Oak, Station Road SL5 0QL. Dukes of Rock. Details: 01344 623625. WEST END – West End Social Club, High Street GU26 9PL. The Dene Street Brothers. Details: 01276 858501. WOKINGHAM – Hope and Anchor, Station Road RG40 2AD. Live music. Details: 0118 978 0918. WOKINGHAM – The Molly Millar, Station Road RG40 2AD. 70s, 80s night. Details: 0118 977 4548. WOKINGHAM – The Red Lion, Market Place RG40 1AL. Ultimate Party Nights. Details: 0118 979 5790. WOKINGHAM – Spin, Alexandra Court RG40 2SL. Essential Saturday. Details: 07415 354056. YATELEY – The Dog and Partridge, The Green GU46 7LR. Off The Record. Details: 01252 870648.

Sunday, March 20 BRACKNELL – South Hill Park, Ringmead. Creative Control band night. Details: 01344 484123. BRACKNELL – The Crown Wood, Opladen Way RG12 0PE. Jam session: Martin Deadman acoustic. Details: 01344 867374. READING – The Abbot Cook, Kings Road RG1 5DE. Sunday jazz: Stuart Henderson Trio. 2.30pm. Details: 0118 935 4095. READING – RISC, London Street RG1 4PS. Readifolk: Jim McLean. Details: 0118 958 6692. READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. Odyxxey Pres: Birdskulls, Pipedream, Tara. Details: 0118 959 7196 WEST END – West End Social Club, High Street GU26 9PL. Daniel Berry. Details: 01276 858501.

LEISURE | 27

To advertise call 0118 328 2959

Friday, March 11, 2016 THEWOKINGHAMPAPER

AT THE CINEMA

The acoustic couch

London’s burning

Come and sit on our couch

Kim Taylor-Foster

Upcoming music with Jody Mc

There’s a load of great events coming up at The Acoustic Couch –you’ve got to come and join us! JODY Mc explains

AYBE you saw Olympus Has Fallen by accident. It’s the sort of film you’d blunder into the pictures to see if you’d rocked up with action on your mind but no set idea of what you want to watch. Or as a second choice if your timing was off or your chosen film screening got cancelled due to failing technology (it happens). However you stumbled across it, it turned out it was what it was – an unpretentious, largely mindless, Nineties-style cheesy, violent action thriller with an edge; the edge being that terrorists targeting the White House is not so far-fetched. To label the film escapist garbage, therefore, as we might ordinarily with this kind of thing, is problematic. Interestingly, the film preceded the release of White House Down, a similarly plotted action flick. London Has Fallen is essentially a re-tread of the original but – no spoilers here – the action has transferred to the UK capital. What we have, ladies and gents, is a mini sub-genre. Presumably, we can look forward to the imminent arrival of House of Commons Down in the coming months… Anyway, if the first was a bit close to home for UK viewers, this follow up forces its way through the front door, raids the fridge, settles in and drops crumbs in the bed. Gerard Butler returns as Secret Service agent Mike Banning. Reinstated as the President’s (Aaron Eckhart) head of security having restored his reputation and repaired his buddy-buddy friendship with the US head of state, Banning’s personal life has become increasingly settled. With a baby on the way, Banning is a click away from emailing his resignation – but one last job accompanying the President to the British Prime Minister’s funeral in London beckons. Little do they know that it’s a trap. A terrorist organisation has infiltrated the police and all hell breaks loose ahead of the service. There are explosions across the city and a barrage of gunfire from a heavy artillery of automatic weapons: the civilian body count is immense. A tense chase across the city ensues, with the gunmen desperate to capture the US president and execute him live on the internet. But they don’t count on Banning… Butler has made this kind of gung-ho violent actioner his own and though its big, dumb, tawdry personality might be tough to reconcile with the former would-be solicitor’s otherwise intelligent, measured character, it does lend an air of ‘he-knows-what-he’sdoing’ to proceedings: Butler also produced the film. This helps lift it from senseless rubbish to knowing popcorn movie. Coming off the back of the real-life, large-scale disaster rehearsal held in the capital recently, London Has Fallen unapologetically plays on our fears and is blatantly a message to prospective terrorists not to mess with the West. Wearing its politics on its sleeve, it would be controversial if more people took it seriously but many critics have dismissed it as boring nonsense with bad effects, dull action and under-par performances. It’s certainly not Stanley Kubrick, but it’s not trying to be anything more than it is – and that’s commendable. Don’t knock the beans on toast when that’s exactly what you’ve ordered. Performances from Butler, Eckhart, Morgan Freeman and Angela Bassett in particular are meant to come with a sprinkling of cheese. But if there is anyone emerging with a slice more credibility, it’s the standout Charlotte Riley as MI6 agent Jacquelin Marshall who brings a welcome dose of realism and a moral centre to the film. With the reputable cast rounded out by the likes of Melissa Leo, Robert Forster, Jackie Earle Haley and Colin Salmon, Butler must be doing something right.

give generously, all his donations collected are donated to small Bracknell-based charities and community concerns. We soon hope to take this vibrant colourful gentleman on a lil’ road trip with a few musicians. We’d love to hear from our friends in Berkshire towns. If you’d like to see Bracknell’s most

STR8TS Medium

Previous solution - Tough

1 8 2 6 7 9 7 6 8 7 2 3 1 2 4 3 4 5 3 4

6 7 1 1

8 6 2 7 5 3 9

mention a mahoosive (under £2 a night, restrictions apply) multistorey carpark. The event page: www.facebook. com/events/1655988354660656/ Or search Theacousticcouch on Facebook and check out this and other events coming up. Each event (unless stated) will offer a humble bottle and spirit bar, but we are a not a pub so please be advised we do not stock our bar like a pub might.

SUDOKU

No. 272

charming treasure pop up and play. Next up on the theacousticcouch calendar… We are welcoming back for the second time I Love Soul on march 19, who will be hosting a night of ‘warehouse soul’. A night of music and madness as the over 30s crowd get to show the youngsters how party. We again will be, how you might say ‘growing old disgracefully’. With such great public and taxi services on our doorstep, not to

7 6

6 8 7

You can find more help, tips and hints at www.str8ts.com

2 5 4 9 8 7 3 1 6

3 1 2 5 9 8

3 5 4 6

7 6 9 7 8

7 6 4 6 7 3 2 3 1 1 2 5 4 6 5 7 2 8 1 9

No. 272

Medium

2 6

Previous solution - Easy

1 7 6 2 9 8 3 4 5

7 1 3 2 9

1 4 2 6

9 8

How to beat Str8ts – Like Sudoku, no single number can repeat in any row or column. But... rows and columns are divided by black squares into compartments. These need to be filled in with numbers that complete a ‘straight’. A straight is a set of numbers with no gaps but can be in any order, eg [4,2,3,5]. Clues in black cells remove that number as an option in that row and column, and are not part of any straight. Glance at the solution to The solutions will be published here in the next issue. see how ‘straights’ are formed.

5 4

5 8

1 7 6

6 3

Stars: Gerard Butler, Aaron Eckhart, Morgan Freeman, Angela Bassett

I Got Soul and The Warehouse are two of the great events coming up at our brilliant new venue

London has Fallen (15) «««««

OU gotta fight for your dreams before you can live them, and boy I’m fighting for mine. As I continue to set up Theacousticcouch, I want to thank the endless support from some very incredible people. There’s still a long way to go before the dream of the arts venue becomes a reality and I’ve had an awful lot of setbacks. So, get your war paint on and come and help us fight for our community. With spring picking up a steady pace and a few events under our belts we are starting to see a few new faces popping up among our fabulous little support network/family, which leads me nicely... (*unsung hero alert*) It’s such a pleasure to welcome our new friend Bill. Bill aka busker bill, a retired man (from the 9am-5pm at least), is a regular in Bracknell town centre and seemingly loved by everyone who passes by. Nearly every Saturday and during holiday times the stellar gent positions himself outside our much loved Bentalls, armed with nothing more than a mic, a song book and his portable karaoke machine. The charmer will also have time to stop and chat too which is how we met. His motives for being out loyally week after week, rain or shine are simple. The man loves to sing. It certainly is not for the money, though if you see him please

8 3 2 4 5 1 9 7 6

9 5 4 3 7 6 2 1 8

6 1 3 5 2 7 8 9 4

5 4 8 6 1 9 7 3 2

2 9 7 8 4 3 6 5 1

7 8 9 1 6 5 4 2 3

3 2 5 7 8 4 1 6 9

4 6 1 9 3 2 5 8 7

To complete Sudoku, fill the board by entering numbers 1 to 9 such that each row, column and 3x3 box contains every number uniquely. For many strategies, hints and tips, visit www.sudokuwiki.org If you like Str8ts check out our books, iPhone/iPad Apps and much more on our store.

IN A BAND? HOLDING A GIG? HEARD SOME GREAT MUSIC? WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! E-MAIL NEWS@WOKINGHAMPAPER.CO.UK

28 | CLASSIFIEDS

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PUBLIC NOTICE ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 WOKINGHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL (A329 SHUTE END – WOKNGHAM) (TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF DRIVING) ORDER 2016 NOTICE IS HEREBY given that on 7th of March 2016 Wokingham Borough Council as Traffic Authority made the above-named Order under Section 14(1)(a) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 the effect of which is to prohibit any vehicle from proceeding along A329 Shute End between its junctions with Station Road and Rectory Road The reason for this prohibition is to enable Wokingham Borough Contractors to undertake maintenance works in safety. The alternative route for all vehicles affected by the restrictions will be via: Vehicles Travelling Northbound – Rectory Road, A321 Glebelands Road, A321 Milton Road, Jubilee Avenue, Holt Lane and A329 Reading Road. Vehicles Travelling Southbound – A329 Reading Road, Holt Lane, Jubilee Avenue, A321 Milton Road, A321 Glebelands Road, Rectory Road, Wiltshire Road, Peach Street, Broad Street. The Order will come into operation on 14th of March 2016 and will continue in force for a period not exceeding 18 months or until the works have been completed whichever is the earlier. The works will be carried out between the hours of 09:30 and 16:00, and it is anticipated that these works will be completed by the 31st March 2016. Dated this 11th day of March 2016. Matt Davey Head of Highways & Transport Wokingham Borough Council, PO Box 151, Shute End, Wokingham, Berkshire RG40 1WH

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THEWOKINGHAMPAPER Friday, March 11, 2016

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DECORATING

quality decorators We are proud to support The Wokingham Paper A local family business established for 30+ years, we guarantee customer satisfaction with our highly professional and personal service.

We provide all aspects of internal and external painting and decorating, domestic and commercial, plus artexing, coving and tiling. Also general building and allied work. Free estimates and advice

RECRUITMENT

Advertise your job vacancy for free! During March, you can advertise your recruitment posts for FREE in The Wokingham Paper. We’ve put together an amazing offer for you – a free linage advert of up to 30 words for your vacancy. There’s no strings and no catch. Just email your wording to advertising@ wokinghampaper.co.uk and we’ll insert your job vacancy in our next available issue. Please note, we can only accept these adverts by email. You can pay a little and include your company logo, a box or convert it into a bigger advert – for more details email advertising@wokinghampaper.co.uk. Please note: offer is limited to one advert per company and is only open during March 2016. We will place your advert only when there is space. For upgrade prices, please contact us. For multiple inserts or vacancies there will be a charge. We reserve the right to decline an advert.

PA to Headteacher, Bohunt School Wokingham

Mobile: 07966 551698 Phone: 0118 973 3537 Email: trevor@quality-decorators.co.uk Website: www.quality-decorators.co.uk

ELECTRICAL

We are looking to appoint a highly skilled, well-organised and professional individual to provide high level administrative support to the Headteacher and oversee administrational management of the new school.

David Elgood Electrical Services Father-and-son business established for 40 years

• Seven-day call-out service • No job is too small • Part P registered with NAPIT and a JIB approved electrician • Approved member of Wokingham Trading Standards Service • Age Concern registered and CRB checked

This role is an integral part of the setting up, opening and on-going development of the new school which will open in September 2016 to Year 7 only, ultimately growing into a vibrant and successful 11-18 comprehensive by 2022.

Tel: 0118 978 6753 Mobile: 07768 914303 Email: davidelgood1@gmail.com A satisfied customer is a good advert. See our reviews at www.littlegreenbook.co.uk

The successful applicant will have excellent communication and interpersonal skills, be able to work to deadlines with initiative and discretion, and demonstrate accuracy and professionalism in all aspects of the role.

MOTORING

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TUITION 11+ (CEM) Tutor

For Reading, Kendrick and Slough Grammar Schools. Structured approach, track record. Based in Wokingham. www.11plustutor.education 07906 387368

RECRUITMENT STONEHOUSE AUTOS LTD Local family-run garage Currently looking for: • Qualified vehicle technician/trainee • Part time office administrator/receptionist e-mail CV to stonehouseautos@yahoo.co.uk

Get your business seen!

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2959

WOKINGHAM SPORT

SPOILS SHARED: Wokingham Ladies draw against local rivals in hockey clash — Page 34

Unrivalled coverage of sport in the Borough

Contact the sports desk: sport@wokinghampaper.co.uk | Log on the for latest sports news www.wokinghampaper.co.uk NETBALL

Maiden Erlegh girls Storm to victory at the Copper Box DEFEATING St Christopher’s 25-15 saw the Year 8 netball team at Maiden Erlegh School crowned COCO5 tournament winners at the weekend. It was a day the youngsters are unlikely to forget in a hurry, for they outscored their Brighton counterparts to secure glory at the Copper Box Arena. The school in Silverdale Road took up an invitation to take part in a competition jointly organised by the sponsors of the Netball London Live event last Saturday and one of the teams involved – Surrey Storm – who met Hertfordshire Mavericks at the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. And in securing their place in the final, the girls had to qualify from an earlier round of the tournament held at Surrey Sports Park on February 20, where they saw off Guildford school Tormead. Maiden Erlegh would then carry this momentum into the showdown, where the contest took place prior to the main event. The squad of nine were soon back on the court too following their triumph, as they were invited to collect their winners’

The Year 8 Maiden Girls with the medals they won at the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park

medals during the half-time interval of the Superleague clash, where the school received a warm round of applause from the 6,000 capacity crowd. “We are extremely proud of the girls’ achievement, it was a really enjoyable day,” said Sian Young, head of PE at Maiden Erlegh.

“The girls got to get changed in the Surrey Storm changing room, meet the players and received their medals and trophy at half-time in front of the crowd. “We are already looking forward to next year’s season.” Surrey Storm later defeated the Mavericks 30-24.

BASKETBALL

Loddon Valley to host Rockets, but Carter is a doubt DANNY CARTER is an injury doubt for Reading Rockets. The captain hurt his lower back during the 78-73 success over Worthing Thunder last Saturday and sat out the 74-68 triumph over Bradford Dragons the following day – the club’s sixth and seventh league wins on the spin. Carter is due to have an X-Ray to try and discover the extent of the damage, but the 27-year-old could face a spell on the sidelines with a problem which has plagued him in the past. This means the forward could miss Saturday’s game with Team Northumbria at Loddon Valley Leisure Centre on Saturday (6pm) and the game at London Lituanica on Sunday afternoon (1pm). “Losing Danny was, and is, a bit of a blow for us and we are still to see the extent of the injury, but I was very happy with the rest of the team and how we pulled together in the difficult parts of each game to secure two vital wins,” said Rockets head coach Manuel Pena Garces. “In both games we had a bit of trouble with execution and scores against us, but we continued to battle and showed some

togetherness and resilience that maybe we didn’t have earlier on in the season, so that pleases me.” The Spaniard is now preparing his squad to take on a Northumbria side they have already faced twice this season, losing 76-73 in the league before taking victory in the semi-final of the National Trophy (80-72). Rockets then head into the capital looking to secure successive wins over Lituanica, having prevailed 65-55 in a league clash back in December. Pena Garces added: “We have two very hard games coming up against two really good teams in this league. “Coach Marc Steutel has done a great job with Team Northumbria and I know he has worked hard to get the best out of them, which is exactly what he is doing. “I know they will be very keen to overturn their National Trophy loss, so I am expecting a tough game, especially as both teams are vying for the top four. “Sunday’s game against London Lituanica provides us with another really difficult test. “At home they are really tough and not too many teams have come out with a win, so we will have to play really well to try to have the outcome in our favour. “Keeping Ausridas Petraitis quiet will be a key for us, but matching their physicality and breaking them down will, I think, be the thing that can give us an advantage.”

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THEWOKINGHAMPAPER Friday, March 11, 2016

WOKINGHAM HOCKEY CLUB

Ladies share the spoils as derby day ends in a draw By LEWIS RUDD lrudd@wokinghampaper.co.uk

TIME is running out on Wokingham Ladies’ attempts to stay in Trysports Premier 1. Although a recent run of defeats came to an end when playing out a 1-1 draw with local rivals Bracknell at Cantley Park, the point still leaves them bottom of the table.

Wokingham’s players put their bodies on the line to keep out opponents Bracknell

Jemima Simpson clears her lines

The Ladies are now two points adrift of the team directly above them, Bicester, with two games remaining – but unfortunately for Wokingham, these are against leaders Reading 2s and

second-placed Amersham and Chalfont. The SECOND XI also sit precariously in 11th place in Division 2 following a 2-0 loss at midtable Oxford 5s. WOKINGHAM 3S conceded their game with Oxford Hawks 6s due to unavailability in Division 5. Wokingham Men A GOAL from Ravi Patel secured Wokingham Men a useful point from a credible draw at promotion-chasing British Airways. Dav Sehmi was on target for the hosts. The result keeps Wokingham 11th in MBBO Regional Division 2 ahead of a

huge local derby and basement battle with bottom side Bracknell on Saturday. The 3S, meanwhile, pulled further away from trouble with arguably the result of the weekend in Division 7. Second-placed Abingdon 2s were the guests to Cantley Park, but they would return home with their tails firmly between their legs after being handed a 5-1 thrashing. Victory moves Wokingham seven points clear of the drop zone and effectively secures safety. There was joy too for the VETERANS, who chalked up a first win of the year when defeating Havant Cavaliers 3-1 on their own turf in the Wessex Supervets Fixtures Alliance. Jess Dunn (left) finds herself outnumbered

The hosts team up to thwart another Bracknell attack

From left: Toby Jones, Harrison Scott, Kaya Campion and Matti Temmink turned out for Berkshire Under-13s at the County Championships in Sussex at the weekend

COUNTY CALL-UPS

Four-some Wokingham quartet do club proud while on Berkshire duty NO FEWER than four players from Wokingham Hockey Club represented Berkshire at the Under-13 boys’ County Championships. Kaya Campion, Harrison Scott, Toby Jones and Matti Temmink all pulled on the county colours during the first round of the competition, which took place in Eastleigh, Sussex, on Sunday. Jones and Temmink, who captained the side, retained their places following eye-catching debuts last year, but it was first time out for both Campion and Scott. All four have helped Wokingham rack up some polished wins and performances in the Mercian Regional League.

The quartet would play their part in helping Berkshire defeat Buckinghamshire 7-0 in the opening game, but could not stop the side slipping to a 2-1 reverse against Hampshire. All four have retained their place in the team for the next round of matches, where the county will take on Sussex and Surrey at Leighton Park School in Reading. Also added to the squad is another player from the club. Justin Stanger impressed while playing in a development match against Maidenhead and too gets a first Berkshire call-up.

Wokingham Fixtures – Saturday, March 12

Wokingham Vets TRYSPORTS PREMIER 1: Reading 2s v Wokingham Ladies DIVISION 2: Wokingham 2s v Bicester 2s DIVISION 5: Wokingham 3s v Amersham and Chalfont 4s

MBBO REGIONAL DIVISION 2: Wokingham Men v Bracknell DIVISION 3: Wokingham 2s v Windsor DIVISION 7: Windsor 2s v Wokingham 3s WESSEX ALLIANCE: Sunbury Red Lions v

Pictures: Steve Smyth

SONNING HOCKEY CLUB

Atter-boy! Jon’s double boosts Men’s 3s hopes of beating the drop SONNING MEN’S 3s gave their hopes of beating the drop in MBBO Division 2 a boost after winning their basement battle with Staines 3s, writes LEWIS RUDD. Jon Atterbury led the scoring in this 4-0 victory at Berkshire County Sports with a brace of goals. He was also joined on the scoresheet by Adrian Trueman. Victory moves 11thplaced Sonning on 12 points for the season, where they now sit just one behind Wallingford 2s, who occupy the position just outside the relegation zone. SONNING’S pursuit of the promotion places in Regional Division 2 suffered a setback when held to a 3-3 draw by Slough. Ian Gallagher, Jack Mason (pictured above) and Steve Ridley were all on target for the villagers, but a Bobbie Bansal brace and Rai Singh strike

ensured honours finished even in this fifth-played-sixth encounter. The result leaves Sonning seven points behind Aylesbury in second with three games remaining – meaning as many wins will be needed if they are to have any chance of gate crashing the top two. Goals from Jamie Haworth and Alex Littleboy, meanwhile, secured SONNING 2S a 2-0 win on the road at OMT 2s, with the win consolidating sixth position in Division 1. A 4-0 loss away at Eastcote 4 means SONNING 4S attempts to avoid slipping out of Division 4 are all but over. A Jat Chana double and further efforts from Jas Nijhar and Nihal Shah secured the hosts the points. Defeat leaves Sonning bottom of the pile, where they sit seven points adrift of potential safety.

The club’s FIFTH XI, on the other hand, remain on course to secure promotion out of Division 8 West. Despite seeing their game at Reading Rovers postponed, the fact closest rivals Bracknell Terriors and Newbury and Thatcham 4s played out a 1-1 draw means the second-placed side hold a four-point buffer with two games left to play. SONNING 6S could take their place in this division, as a comprehensive 5-0 victory over struggling Oxford 9s preserved second place in Division 9. They hold a two-point lead on Newbury and Thatcham 5s in third. Jon Newman and David MacInnes both hit the backboards for a SONNING 7S side which picked up a useful point against Bicester Development. The 2-2 draw means they are only a point behind Oxford 9s at the bottom of the standings. Sonning Ladies SONNING 2s stunned promotion-chasing

Gerrards Cross when recording a 2-1 victory which pulled the side off the bottom of the Division 1 table in the Trysports League. It was just a second success in the league for the ladies this term, but it could prove pivotal as the season nears a conclusion. SONNING LADIES’ search for honours looks set to go down to the wire. A narrow 1-0 triumph when hosting Wycombe 2s keeps them third in Premier 1, where just a point separates them and Amersham and Chalfont in second. Sonning are also only five behind leaders Reading 2s, but have a game in hand on both, so realistically need to win all three remaining fixtures if they are to snatch top spot and the title. The club’s SECOND XI, meanwhile, were unable to do their club-mates any favours, as they succumbed to a 4-2 reverse against Amersham and Chalfont. In Division 3, a 1-1 draw with Aylesbury 3s did little for SONNING 4S

chances of climbing off the foot of the table, while the VETERANS’ attempts to pull away from trouble in Division 4 were thwarted by a frozen pitch. Their game at neighbours Reading 4s was postponed. Unable to field a team saw SONNING 5S hand fellow strugglers Aylesbury 4s an automatic 5-0 victory, but means the two sides swap places in the Division 6 ladder, with the latter slipping to the bottom of the table. FIXTURES — Saturday March 12

TRYSPORTS PREMIER 1: Oxford Ladies 2s v Sonning Ladies 2s; Bracknell v Sonning Ladies DIVISION 1: Sonning 3s v Oxford 4s DIVISION 3: Thame 2s v Sonning 4s DIVISION 4: Sonning Veterans v Marlow 4s DIVISION 6: Sonning 5s v Witney 3s MBBO REGIONAL DIVISION 2: Phoenix and Ranelagh v Sonning Men DIVISION 1: Sonning 2s v Thame DIVISION 2: Henley 2s v Sonning 3s DIVISION 4: Sonning 4s v Witney 2s DIVISION 9 WEST: Banbury 4s v Sonning 6s; Sonning 7s v Oxford 9s

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Friday, March 11, 2016 THEWOKINGHAMPAPER

ICE HOCKEY

LOCAL RUGBY

Bees pay price for poor start Rams’ resurgence continues Dorking 7 Redingensians Rams 13

Bracknell Bees 4 Manchester Phoenix 7 CONCEDING four goals inside the opening three minutes saw Bracknell Bees beaten again by Manchester Phoenix on Sunday. Despite producing a valiant fightback at the Hive, with Vanya Antonov, Alex Barker, Carl Thompson and Lukas Smital all adding their names to the scoresheet, it was this shocking start which proved to be the difference between the two sides. Bees, surprisingly, would out-shoot their opponents on the night having peppered Phil Spanswick in the Phoenix goal with some 48 attempts compared to the 30 opposite number Alex Mettam had to deal with. It is, however, the tallies totted up on the scoreboard which matter the most, and it was once again difficult reading for a Bracknell side defeated for the 38th this term. While the campaign has been difficult for everyone involved, the first 10 minutes was truly the stuff of nightmares. The contest was just 11 seconds old when Robin Kovar stole in over on the right wing and sprayed the puck to the opposite side of the rink, where an unmarked Martin Baranek broke the deadlock with a close-range finish. Things would get even worse for the home side just moments later when Kovar lit the lamp at the second attempt as Bees were caught out by a fluid counter attack. The Czech forward was doubling his tally just 11 seconds later. The hosts were again without the influential and injured Lewis Turner in defence, and his absence was clearly being felt as Manchester stormed forward once more, where Kovak was on hand to finish off the move at the far post. It was all far too easy for Tony Hand’s men, and with a rout on the cards player-coach Smital took action and called a time out in an attempt to rally his beleaguered troops. His words would have some affect on the side, who were once again short-benched due to injuries and unavailability, and they were soon making a fist of things. The chance to claw back a goal on the power play after Phoenix’s Luke Boothroyd was pulled up for holding came and went, although Smital and Antonov did work Spanswick with respective chances. Attack was the home side’s best form of defence, but when Kovar was again presented with a sight of the pipework in the 10th minute, he was celebrating a hat-trick. And it was some strike by the player who, having received a pass from Ben Russell, sent a curling strike from the

Carl Thompson, who hit Bracknell Bees’ third goal on the night, tries to sweep the puck home Picture: Bob Swann

blueline through a clutch of bodies, beyond Mettam and into the top shelf. Manchester had barely broken into a sweat, yet they were already out of reach of the opposition with still some 50 minutes remaining – or so it seemed. They would not breach the Bees again during the remainder of the session, although Spanswick was not to be beaten either, despite the best efforts of both Thompson and Smital, meaning Bracknell had now gone four periods without hitting the net. That, however, was to change just 38 seconds after the restart when a hopeful punt forward by Thompson was turned home by Antonov, who was lurking at the far post. The young forward put his team on the board when notching on a power play awarded for Manchester having too many men on the ice. It was just desserts for a Bracknell side not only growing in spirit, but in momentum too, and they would cut the arrears even further on 24:24 when Barker profited from Spanswick being unable to hold a Josh Tetlow drive from distance. The forward needed no second invitation to score, tucking away the rebound via a first-time effort from just outside the crease. It was the Phoenix who now found themselves against the ropes, and it was amid a similar scenario when the lead was cut to just a single goal. Carl Graham had no right to shoot from where he did over on the right side, but Spanswick again could only parry the strike. With no D-men in sight, Thompson sensed his moment, skating on to the loose puck before sending it

across the netminder and into the corner with aplomb. The same player had a glorious chance to complete the unlikeliest of comebacks seconds later, but was over with the opportunity. Bracknell were now smelling blood and were looking the more likely to go on and make it 4-4. However, losing Antonov to a tripping minor would prove a pivotal moment. The hosts were looking to capitalise from a power play of their own when the forward was pulled up for the infringement, and he would have to watch on as Jacob Carson-Heron flashed a slap-shot past Mettam and calm any nerves creeping into the camp. It would also swing momentum back the way of the visitors, who inflicted more pain on their guests when Stanislav Gron stroked in a sixth early in the final session. But back came Bees and they would finally make one of their 24 strikes at goal during the last 20 minutes count when James Galazzi and Antonov combined to set up Smital, who finished well over on the right side. It was another Bracknell goal struck while boasting the extra man, as Trent Hope was binned for a high stick. Unfortunately for the coach and his players, the effort would ultimately prove in vain. While eventually giving Manchester a real scare, it was the away side who would have the final say when Michael Satek wrapped up the scoring six minutes from time. Gron was the architect, determinedly keeping hold of the puck as he made his way from deep, taking it all the way around the goal before squaring for his team-mate to produce the telling touch.

NOT only did Redingensians extend their winning streak to five games, but also produced one of the best defensive displays witnessed by head coach Mike Tewkesbury. A Rob Stapley try and the eight points kicked over by the reliable Spike Chandler secured the points which were enough to pull the visitors further away from trouble, but it was the rearguard action which impressed Tewkesbury the most at The Big Field. He said: “It was probably one of the best defensive displays I’ve seen since I’ve been at the club. The number of tackles we made were immense. “The surface conditions were extremely testing, but we stuck at it and I felt our scrummaging was superb. “It sapped the attacking energy out of the opposition – especially in the closing stages. “Moreover, our discipline was good. We didn’t give penalties away in dangerous positions.” While victory moves Rams up to ninth in National League 2 South, the fixture was unable to deliver Chandler his 1,000th point for the club. He now sits on 999, meaning he will now have to wait until the visit of Southend Saxons on March 19 to try and reach the milestone. Yet things looked promising for the fly-half, who banged over two penalties in quick succession inside the first eight minutes. Redingensians, however, would not hold the advantage for long, as some incessant attacking from the Surrey side, instigated by the backs division, yielded a try on 17 minutes for Charlie Jewers, with the on-loan Richmond centre scoring down the blind side. Matt Noble added the extras and Dorking were now in front. While appealing going forward, the hosts struggled to contain James Baker. The tight-head would present the opposition with a manner of problems in the scrum. This would result in Dorking prop Mofe Wilkey picking up a yellow card. And the initiative was soon back with the Sonning side, where Stapley snapped up the chance to grab a pushover try in the 27th minute following a series of five-metre scrums. Chandler improved the score and took his individual tally to one shy of a four-figure total in the process – on which he currently remains. It was a slender lead Rams would not only protect going in at the break, but throughout the second half, too. The session would begin as a free-for-all, but a lack of discipline saw

Rams’ Spike Chandler now has 999 points for the club Picture: Redingensians RFC

Samir Kharbouch, for the visitors, and opposite number Oli Edwards wind up in the sin-bin. It would become a midfield slog at times, but a home side also scrapping for points to try and beat the drop and bolstered by several new signings, remained a threat – especially within the backs. But poor hands were letting them down, although this was not helped by the number of tenacious tackles produced by Tewkesbury’s charges which kept the hosts at bay. A chance to seal the game, however, would fall the visitors way midway through the half, but the failure to exploit a two-man overlap put paid to the opportunity. Tom Vooght, meanwhile, was outstanding at open side, and it was such good work which helped Rams hold out to claim four more priceless points. REDINGENSIANS: Foxley, Corrigan, Bryant, Barnes, McDermottroe; Chandler, Drury, Weller, Henderson, Baker, Bryson, Guttridge, Kharbouch, Vooght, Stapley. Reps: Knowles, Steadman, Amor, Nightingale, Richardson National League 2 South P W D L F Cambridge 24 21 1 2 725 Old Albanians 23 18 1 4 736 Bishop’s Stortford 24 16 1 7 648 Redruth 23 17 0 6 554 Taunton Titans 23 16 0 7 658 Old Elthamians 24 12 2 10 535 Barnes 24 10 3 11 556 Clifton 24 10 1 13 605 Redingensians 24 10 1 14 526 Worthing 24 10 1 13 513 Bury St Edmonds 24 10 0 14 515 Chinnor 24 9 0 15 560 Canterbury 24 9 0 15 507 Dorking 24 8 0 16 435 Southend Saxons 24 7 3 14 471 Launceston 22 0 1 22 255

A 412 367 380 401 469 543 592 577 557 547 601 622 690 613 644 784

BP 19 20 20 15 16 10 15 14 13 11 13 16 12 12 9 8

PTS 105 94 86 83 80 62 61 56 53 53 53 52 48 44 43 10

Bracknell are battered by the Lightning on bad-tempered night in MK MK Lightning 7 Bracknell Bees 0

BEES had a second period to forget in Buckinghamshire on Saturday, where hosts MK Lightning racked up five uncontested goals while on their way to a comfortable victory, WRITES JOHN SLATER. Bobby Chamberlain, Lewis Hook, Adam Carr, twice, and Leigh Jamieson all netted during a punishing 20 minutes for the guests, who were not helped by ill-discipline. These were added to Blaz Emersic’s

first period opener for the Lightning, who saw the rout completed when Carr doubled his tally in the final stanza. There was little to separate the two sides during the first session, but this was to change when, on a delayed penalty, Emersic broke the deadlock. The strike, which was to arrive with just over two-and-a-half minutes remaining, was to open the proverbial floodgates. Chamberlain would open his account for the night when the second period was just seconds old, which again went down as a delayed penalty strike.

Hook added a third soon after. Frustration was now getting the better of the away side, with Carl Graham and Matt Foord picking up slashing and boarding penalties respectively. Bees managed to kill off both, but when defenceman Graham was again sinbinned, this time for delaying the game, MK would make the numerical advantage count, with Carr putting his side out of reach. Bracknell were now struggling to keep players on the ice, with playercoach Lukas Smital next to take a seat in the box having slashed an opponent

– although this was shortly after James Griffin for the hosts was pulled up for holding. Bees were unable to find a goal on the power play, yet the opposition did to add insult to injury. Converting was Jamieson. Further stoppages would arrive when Bracknell’s Josh Smith clashed with Chamberlain, meaning both were hit by roughing calls, but once order had resumed, Carr had just enough time to beat the buzzer and rattle in goal number six. The seventh was not long in coming either, which was hit by Chamberlain at

the midway point of the third period. It was now about the away side salvaging some pride, but a number of unsavoury moments were to follow. Smith and James Galazzi fought with Grant McPherson and Bobby Chamberlain, with all found binned for roughing. On the sound of klaxon for full-time, Scott Spearing traded blows with former Bee Frantisek Bakrlik, a clash which would end up with the forward receiving a game penalty, which ruled him out of Sunday’s fixture with Manchester Phoenix.

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LONDON IRISH

Coventry States he would be happy with ugly victory LONDON IRISH v SARACENS AVIVA PREMIERSHIP RED BULL ARENA, NEW JERSEY SATURDAY – 8pm By LEWIS RUDD lrudd@wokinghampaper.co.uk DESPITE all the excitement surrounding this prestigious fixture, Tom Coventry would quite happily settle for a 3-0 London Irish victory. All eyes will be Stateside when this fixture kicks off on Saturday evening (British time), for these two Aviva Premiership rivals will be making history. The sides will line up against each other at the Red Bull Arena, New Jersey, in what will be the first ever league fixture contested outside of these shores. Yet while the clash is being used to help promote the English game to a country where interest in rugby is growing at a rapid rate, it is also another important fixture for head coach Coventry and his charges. This is because the Exiles currently sit eight points adrift at the foot of the table and are embroiled in a relegation scrap which is becoming even harder by the week. The organisers will no doubt be hoping both sides can put on a show in front of an expectant crowd, but Coventry is hoping his squad can return to this side of the pond on the right end of the result – however ugly it might come. He said: “Would I take a 3-0 win, yes – certainly – but it has been a long time since there has been a 3-0 win in a game of Premiership rugby. “We’re in a situation where we need to win and start picking up wins, and bonus points are just as important, that is all I can say, but we are looking forward to the challenge. I don’t think there is any magic formula we can come up – we just need to start wining games and we need to remain competitive in games right to the

London Irish head coach Tom Coventry and below, The Red Bull Arena in New Jersey

final minute, just like we did at Bath last weekend.” Because of the magnitude of the fixture, Irish have not only been busy preparing for the game, but promoting it too through various trips and excursions. Coventry insists it has not really affected his plans to try and topple the current league leaders and reigning champions. Tom Court, meanwhile, believes a week away can only be good for the spirit and morale of the side. “It sort of reminds me of camp and the days of old,” added the prop. “I see real positive things from the boys and there is a lot more of a chance to be together and discuss what we need to do.

“For me it’s about being used to being at home with a lot of distractions with the family, kids and other responsibilities, so it is a bit of a gimme to be away for the week. Obviously there are distractions here too and a lot of exciting stuff is going on, but we are focused on the job at hand and what we are doing and having the rest and time to adjust ourselves.” Irish go into the game still yet to pick up a win or bonus point in the league on their travels this season. Although being played in a neutral venue some 3,500 miles away, this is actually a ‘home’ fixture for the Exiles. And that could be evident in the stands too should the strong Irish community in New York and New Jersey turn out in force for the occasion. This may well be a bottom-plays-top encounter, but the possibility of playing in front a sea of green on America’s east coast could inspire the side to a much-needed win. “We’re playing the champions, so when is a good time to play them?” said Coventry. “So it is really a challenge for us to get something out of the game and the season now because the rest of the season hasn’t gone to plan, but we will be prepared for them (Saracens). “There are a lot of Irish ex-patriots in New Jersey and we’re hoping they (come out in force). “The promotional departments have done a great job with the PR for the game and now we really need people to come out and show their support for the Irish – that’s what we’re hoping for.” Saracens Exeter Leicester Wasps Northampton Gloucester Sale Sharks Harlequins Bath Worcester Newcastle London Irish

AVIVA PREMIERSHIP P W D L F 15 11 1 3 387 15 10 0 5 370 15 10 0 5 321 15 9 0 6 366 15 8 0 7 315 15 8 1 6 301 14 7 2 5 289 15 7 1 7 360 14 5 0 9 258 15 4 0 11 276 15 4 1 10 234 15 3 0 12 225

A 266 241 290 264 246 272 283 371 267 378 373 451

BP 7 10 5 7 9 4 6 8 8 6 3 1

PTS 53 50 45 43 41 38 38 38 28 22 21 13

THEWOKINGHAMPAPER Friday, March 11, 2016

LOCAL RUGBY

Crowthorne Chip away at top four Crowthorne 13 Chipping Norton 10

CROWTHORNE’S push for a top-four finish is back on track after they edged out Chipping Norton at The New Nest. Victory for Alex Stewart’s charges was just the tonic following the 10-5 reverse suffered at Tadley last time out. This result, along with the punishing 60-8 defeat Abingdon suffered at title-chasing Milton Keynes on the same day, however, means the Crows now sit just three points behind the Oxfordshire side in fifth. It is likely the wrestle for fourth place will go down to the wire, yet whatever happens this has still been a stunning season for Crowthorne upon their return to this level of competition. This is because a return of 10 wins from their last 13 fixtures has seen the side rise up the standings and join the leading pack. Crowthorne have a rest this weekend

Stu beauty! Silvester has Bracknell winning again Eton Manor 13 Bracknell 17

STUART SILVESTER scored two tries and helped give Bracknell something to cheer about. Chris Brember also went over as the Lily Hill men ended a run of six successive defeats with this narrow win at Nutter Lane. But they were made to work hard for the much-welcomed four points against an Eton Manor side yet to taste victory in the league this season and currently prop up the rest in National League 3 London and South East. Neither side had yet to celebrate a win of any note in 2016, so those present were hoping something would have to give. But when the half-time whistle was blown it was the hosts who were looking the most likely to break their duck. Despite an unconverted try from hooker Silvester, it was Eton boasting a 13-5 lead. Such joy, however, was short-lived as they would put no more points on the board as Rory Greenslade-Jones’ men upped their defensive game.

Crowthorne’s Karl Crosbie is held up Picture: Steve Smyth

before returning to action on March 19, at basement boys Wheatley (2.15pm). Berks, Bucks and Oxon Premier Division P W D L F A BP Gosford All Blacks 17 16 0 1 635 167 15 Milton Keynes 16 15 1 0 658 165 11 Tadley 17 14 0 3 628 238 11 Abingdon 18 11 0 7 494 338 11 Crowthorne 17 10 1 7 258 238 8 Chipping Norton 17 6 2 9 267 405 5 Chesham 18 6 0 12 207 439 7 Alchester 18 4 2 14 210 393 9 Slough 17 5 1 11 379 475 7 Risborough 18 6 0 12 186 539 2 Hungerford 18 5 1 12 258 485 8 Wheatley 18 4 0 14 169 467 6

PTS 79 74 62 55 52 33 31 30 29 22 20 12

And in doing so it would provide the visitors with the platform to go on and snatch a hard-fought victory. Brember would break out of the backs to dab down and pull the guests closer to their opponents before another Silvester score nudged them in front. The away side stay 11th in the standings, but this triumph does see them move 20 points clear of the team directly below them, Gravesend. BRACKNELL: Pickett, Silvester, Mirza (c), Wright, Kronman, Milligan, Rudkin, Valentine, Ap Dafydd, Conway, Burch, Faamatuainu, Higgins, Brember, Yates. Reps: Staples, Goodison, Elliot.

The team return to action when hosting Wimbledon on March 19 (2.15pm) National League 3 London and South East P W D L F A BP L.I Wild Geese 21 18 2 1 651 322 14 Tonbridge Juddian 21 17 1 3 626 296 16 Westcombe Park 21 15 0 6 586 325 15 East Grinstead 21 15 1 5 523 282 13 Hertford 21 14 0 7 573 367 11 Guernsey 21 14 0 7 549 448 11 Shelford 21 12 0 9 477 413 13 Wimbledon 21 9 0 12 505 419 9 Chichester 21 9 0 12 384 470 8 Colchester 21 9 0 12 449 484 7 Bracknell 21 7 0 14 391 560 10 Gravesend 21 3 0 18 307 623 6 Westcliff 21 3 0 18 316 672 6 Eton Manor 21 0 0 21 2216 865 4

PTS 90 81 75 75 67 67 61 45 44 43 38 18 18 4

Greig Tonks a post with late penalty as Irish miss out on bonus point Bath 25 London Irish 17

ALEX LEWINGTON marked his return to the London Irish side with a try – but the missed conversion was to deny the side picking up a vital bonus point at The Recreation Ground. The winger was back in the fold having recovered from a broken thumb, and it was his dart for the corner late on which presented the guests with the chance to take something from the fixture. Responsibility from the tee belonged to Greig Tonks, who had only joined the club from Edinburgh a few days before the game. But there was to be no fairy-tale start for the fly-half, who saw his kick bound back off an upright. Through two Matt Banahan tries and further scores from Semesa Rokoduguni and Leroy Houston, the game was already over as a contest for Exiles, but the late rally did receive some recognition from

head coach Tom Coventry. He said: “I was pretty impressed with the last five minutes when we got ourselves in a state of mind to chase a bonus point down, we played some pretty good rugby. “It’s just a pity that we weren’t able to replicate that for the remainder of the game. “The try conceded just before half-time, that was frustrating. “We talked about making sure we were in the match at half-time and going in 11 points down ended up being too hard to chase down. “The defensive errors we made in midfield, particular with Kyle Eastmond, who had a pretty good day out there for them. “They seemed to be able to get through us and our shape far too easily.” Irish went in to the game eight points adrift at the foot of the table following Worcester Warriors’ 15-14 triumph against Newcastle Falcons the night before. Bath too were in something of a free

fall having won just one of their last nine previous fixtures. But it was the hosts who put the first points on the board when Rhys Priestland, back from Six Nations duty with Wales, slotted over a penalty. Irish, however, were quickly back on level terms courtesy of a Theo Brophy Clews kick from the tee,. The scoreboard now read 3-3 with just 10 minutes on the clock, but seconds after the restart Banahan was making his way to the line and would go over in the corner to score the opening try. Eastmond was the architect, breaking the Exiles’ defensive line before sending his team-mate on his way. Priestland was unable to add the extra two points, but Bath were now holding the advantage. Irish duly responded with a spell of sustained pressure – and it would eventually see the gap between the sides closed. Brophy Clews had turned down two earlier attempts for goal, but was to go for posts on a third occasion and would

make no mistake. Coventry’s men were showing a greater efficiency with the ball, but containing their guests was the real issue. And being caught out on the over lap would result in Banahan grabbing his – and Bath’s – second try when dabbing down over on the far side. Priestland banged over the conversion from the touchline and Mike Ford’s men led by nine points. Brophy Clews would reduce these arrears by another three points just past the half-hour mark. Another kick for posts would arrive soon after, but the youngster would this time see the ball skew wide of an upright. The visitors would have most likely settled for a six-point deficit going in at half-time, but this was not to be the case. This is because, after referral to the Television Match Official (TMO), Rokoduguni was adjudged to have squeezed the ball over in the corner. There were no extras on this occasion, but it was a blow to the visitors, who would trail 20-9 when the whistle

for the interval was blown. Despite the setback, Irish came out for the restart in a resolute mood, and having put paid to a number of Bath attacks, the defence had tightened up, too. The half was some 22 minutes old when the next points were being celebrated, and it was the majority of the 13,000-plus crowd who enjoyed watching Houston touch down to secure the bonus point. This was the result of a sweeping attacking move. The Exiles, however, remained undeterred and continued to press, with Sean Maitland, Topsy Oly and Lewington all impressing with ball in hand. Persistence would yield a penalty some 30 seconds from time, which Tonks slotted over for his first points in the club’s colours. More drama, though, was to follow with Lewington grabbing his side a try and move Irish to within kicking distance of a losing bonus point. Tonks again lined up the ball and had the distance, only to agonisingly watch on as the ball rattled an upright.

Terriers show their teeth, but Royals ‘will go again’ Huddersfield Town 3 Reading 1

“WE’LL GO AGAIN” was the defiant message from Danny Williams after Reading went down to defeat at the John Smith’s Stadium on Tuesday night. A much-changed away side saw second half goals from Nahki Wells, Jamie Paterson and substitute Flo Bjoaj condemn Royals to a first defeat in six games. A superb strike from another replacement, Ola John, saw the visitors pull a goal back late on, but it was nothing more than consolation. “It’s frustrating and disappointing – but that is how it is,” said Williams (pictured) – one of six changes made to the side by Brian McDemott, who most likely had one eye on tonight’s FA Cup quarter-final with Crystal Palace. “Huddersfield were the better team and deserved all three points. But we’ll go again. “A Tuesday night in Huddersfield is tricky – every game in this division is tough. We experienced it before when we came here. “They are a playing side that like to keep the ball and they made it hard for us. “They pressed high and just got the better of us. “For a lot of players it was good to get game-time – although we shouldn’t use that as an excuse. “But we should forget this night and quickly move on.” An errant back-pass from Andrew Taylor would result in Wells going on to break the deadlock on 51 minutes. Paterson made it 2-0 when converting

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Friday, March 11, 2016 THEWOKINGHAMPAPER

a Sean Scannell cross 10 minutes later. Between them, Wells and Paterson have struck seven times against Reading this season. Bojaj confirmed the win when turning home a Dean Whitehead centre before John reduced the arrears. HUDDERSFIELD TOWN: Steer, Smith, Hudson, Cranie, Husband (Davidson 89), Whitehead, Dempsey, Lolley, Paterson, Bunn (Scannell 60), Wells (Bojaj 81). Subs not used: Miller, Holmes, Allinson, Booty Booked: Husband READING: Al Habsi, Gunter (Barrett 84), Hector, Cooper, A.Taylor, McCleary, Williams, Evans (John 59), Piazon, Rakels (Cox 70), Kermorgant Subs not used: Bond, Fernandez, Keown, Stacey Booked: Taylor Referee: Paul Tierney Attendance: 10,167

Burnley Middlesbrough Brighton Hull Derby Sheff Wed Cardiff Ipswich Birmingham Preston QPR Wolves Nottm Forest Reading Leeds Blackburn Brentford Huddersfield Fulham Bristol City MK Dons Rotherham Charlton Bolton

Sky Bet Championship P W D L 36 20 11 5 35 20 7 8 36 17 14 5 34 19 7 8 36 16 12 8 36 14 14 8 36 14 13 9 35 15 10 10 35 15 9 11 36 12 13 11 36 11 14 11 36 12 10 14 35 11 12 12 35 11 11 13 35 10 14 11 35 10 13 12 35 12 7 16 36 11 9 16 36 8 13 15 36 9 10 17 36 9 9 18 36 10 5 21 36 6 11 19 36 4 14 18

F 57 47 49 48 47 50 47 44 40 33 43 45 33 41 34 35 48 47 55 32 30 40 32 35

A 29 21 34 20 32 36 40 42 34 33 42 50 31 41 40 32 55 49 61 57 48 59 66 60

Pts 71 67 65 64 60 56 55 55 54 49 47 46 45 44 44 43 43 42 37 37 36 35 29 26

READING FC

McDermott explains what is needed to clip Eagles’ wings READING v CRYSTAL PALACE FA CUP – QUARTER-FINAL MADEJSKI STADIUM TONIGHT, 7.55pm By LEWIS RUDD lrudd@wokinghampaper.co.uk READING take on Crystal Palace tonight looking to secure a spot in the semi-final of the FA Cup and another trip to Wembley for the second successive season. A sell out crowd is expected at Madejski Stadium as the Royals look to claim another Premier League scalp in this year’s competition, having disposed of West Bromwich Albion in the previous round. Under then boss Steve Clarke, the side tore up the history books in 2014/15 when marching all the way to the last four, doing so for the first time in some 88 years. Reading went down to a cruel 2-1 extra-time defeat to eventual winners Arsenal on that occasion – but once again stand within earshot of making another trip to the capital. And while cup fever has hit the town once more, Brian McDermott’s message to his players is simple. The manager said: “We want to put on a really good performance and enjoy the occasion, which is really important – perform and then see what the outcome is. “What it would mean to the club and to the players and owners, it would be fantastic to be able to get to walk out at Wembley and that is what it is all about. “This cup means an awful lot to this

Brian McDermott

Pictures: Vivienne Johnson

ootball club. Last season Steve (Clarke) brought the team to the semi-final, where they were unfortunate against Arsenal, it means an awful lot – to the fans, to the players and owners.” Palace started the season on fire, but will arrive in town having not won in the league since December. Yet they have seen off both Southampton and Tottenham Hotspur in the cup, so McDermott is aware of the task facing his Championship side. “We need to play well,” he added. “We need to play at the top of our game, but for me it is about the

performance. I want us to play as top class as we can and everybody to play at the top of their game, and if we can do that, we have an opportunity. “We have done our homework and I have seen them play. We will do what we have to do and concentrate on ourselves and our performance.” The Palace manager, meanwhile, needs no introduction to Reading fans. Alan Pardew took the club up to the old Division 1 (now Championship) back in 2002 before leaving under a cloud a year later to take over at West Ham United. He is almost guaranteed a hostile reception, yet he is responsible for bringing in the man who now presides over the Royals. This is because a chance meeting between McDermott and Pardew at a Brentford Reserves’ match in 2000 led to the latter being brought in as Under-17s coach and chief scout not long after. McDermott appreciates he probably would not have enjoyed successes such as winning the Championship title with Royals back in 2012 – let alone ever have been at the club had it not been for that moment at Griffin Park. The pair remain good friends, and although leaving acrimoniously all those years ago, the current Reading boss was keen to remind folk of what Pardew achieved while in the hot-seat. “He started something at Reading which was very, very special,” said McDermott. “That was carried on by Steve Coppell as well, so these guys have been very, very important in where we are today.”

Jake not to blame says boss after defender falls into spot of bother Reading 2 Fulham 2 By LEWIS RUDD lrudd@wokinghampaper.co.uk JAKE COOPER did not need to apologise for conceding the penalty which earned Fulham a point from an entertaining draw at Madejski Stadium. For it was the defenders challenge on Ryan Fredericks in the box on 52 minutes which referee Simon Hooper deemed unfair and pointed to the spot. Captain Ross McCormack stepped up and tucked the ball home from 12 yards to secure the struggling west London side a share of the spoils. Through a brace of first-half Hal Robson-Kanu goals, Royals had cancelled out Moussa Dembele’s earlier opener and secured a 2-1 lead before Cooper felled his opponent illegally. McDermott, who saw his side denied a third successive win in the Championship, revealed the Academy product had said sorry to his team-mates afterwards, but that such admissions were not necessary. “Jake Cooper does well in every day of his life in the way he conducts himself, in the way he lives his life as a professional and every day is a learning curve for all of us and every game we are involved in it is a learning curve, so he is one of our own,” said the manager. “He is an Academy boy, he does it right and it’s simple. “He will just get better with the games

Jake Cooper

and that it what you will see – you are seeing him getting better and better and he is still only just 21 years of age. “He was disappointed and he apologised for the penalty, but there is no reason to apologise – no-one has to apologise in that dressing room. “We have got a result again today, we have got a performance where everyone is trying to give us absolutely everything. “Fulham have come here and given everything as a group, as well as a team for their manager, so fair play to both sets of players.” Royals would go into the game without captain Paul McShane, who was ruled out with a calf problem, and finished it

without Robson-Kanu. Nodding the side 2-1 in front was to be the player’s final contribution to the contest, as picking up an Achilles injury would force the forward off at half time. The hosts, however, would still have a string of chances to secure all three points in the pair’s absence, but Fulham doggedly weathered a late storm to secure a vital point in their efforts to beat the drop. It was Slavisa Jokanovic’s charges who started the game brightly and nudged themselves ahead in the eighth minute. The deadlock was broken from a corner swung over by McCormack, which an unmarked Michael Madl flicked on at the far post in the direction of Dembele, whose first-time strike was helped over the line by the hand of Ali Al Habsi in the Reading goal. The home side had begun sluggishly, yet were soon beginning to grab a grip of the game. A succession of corners yielded no reward however, when Robson-Kanu stole in and won possession to exchange passes with Kermorgant, his run into the box was ended by a clumsy Fernando Amorebieta challenge and a spot kick was awarded. The same player dusted himself down and confidently sent the penalty into the left-hand corner. Then, with just four minutes of the half remaining, the Welshman would complete the turnaround. Again, the goal would arrive with

Reading taking the ball off the opposition in their own half. Engineering the move was Ola John, who played a neat one-two with Michael Hector, who slipped in the winger with a perfectly-weighted pass. From here, the Dutchman surged towards goal, where he was to commit Fulham ‘keeper Andy Lonergan and then produce a sublime chip from which Robson-Kanu provided the telling touch from just a yard out. The latter was replaced during the interval by Garath McCleary, and would watch on as Kermorgant was just millimetres away from making it 3-1. The second half was seconds old when Oliver Norwood sent the ball forward, where the Frenchman powered his way into the box – only to see his strike for the corner roll the wrong side of the post. It was a let off for the away side, but they would make the most of Royals’ misfortune. This is because an over-hit Hector pass would result in a quick attack which had Fredericks storming into the box. He was to meet opposition from Cooper, but the defender was too physical and Hooper was again pointing to the spot when the midfielder was bundled over. McCormack dabbed the ball down before drilling it low into the corner, with Al Habsi diving the opposite way. Royals would go about their duties undeterred, but would ultimately be left wondering how a string of chances failed to produce a winner.

A slight deflection took a Quinn drive away from goal before John headed over when well placed. The same player would later sting the hands of Lonergan with a strike from the edge of the box before his cross was headed wide by Cooper. John was also denied at the near post. Deniss Rakels, introduced from the bench, saw appeals for another penalty waved away when appearing to be shoved over by Madl when chasing down another useful Norwood ball into the box. The final chance of note would fall to Kermorgant in stoppage time, but his header from a right-wing cross lacked the required conviction. “We’re unfortunate not to go 3-1 up and I think that’s game over then,” added McDermott, whose charges remain unbeaten at Madejski Stadium in 2016. “Obviously (Fulham) were hanging in there and fair play to them, they got themselves a goal and we’re trying to win the game late on, but we take the point and go up the table one more place. “It was two sides trying to do the best they possibly can and that is Championship football for you.” READING: Al Habsi, Gunter (c), Obita, Cooper, Ferdinand, Hector, Norwood, Quinn (Rakels 59), Robson-Kanu (McCleary 46), Kermorgant, John Subs not used: Bond, Evans, Piazon, Williams, Cox. FULHAM: Lonergan, Richards, Garbutt, Fredericks (Kacaniklic 73), Cairney (Parker 81), Madl, Baird, O’Hara (Tunnicliffe 67), Dembele, McCormack, Amorebieta Booked: Richards, Fredericks, McCormack, Tunnicliffe. Referee: Simon Hooper Attendance: 17,859

38 | SPORT

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THAMES VALLEY LEAGUE

The Great Escape? Sonning stun Barkham in big win By LEWIS RUDD lrudd@wokinghampaper.co.uk DEFEATING borough rivals Barkham Athletic 4-2 has given Sonning’s hopes of beating the drop in Division 2 a massive shot in the arm. Brodie Davies, Charlie Hiscox, James Holder and James Underwood got the goals which secured the villagers just a second win of the season. But what a vital triumph it could be, as the three points moved Sonning level with Ashridge Park at the foot of the table. Matt Bacon hit a brace for Barkham, who have now lost two games on the spin. Only goal difference separates Sonning and PARK, who were beaten 7-3 by an Eldon Celtic side that went top of the tree with victory at Cantley Park. Omar Carrington, Alcides Madaleno and Matthew Williamson all scored twice for the away side, with Christopher Brown also on target. HURST arrested a run of recent defeats when playing out a 1-1 draw with WOODLEY UNITED RESERVES in the Premier Division. Philip Cartwright was on target for the visitors, with Joseph Danelian netting for Woodley as the honours finished even. BERKS COUNTY continue to sit precariously in 10th position after Daniel Hunt and Richard Webb struck to secure Cookham Dean a 2-1 victory at the John Nike Stadium. Jordan Watson put County on the scoreboard on the hour mark, but it was not enough as the hosts slipped to defeat. In Division 1, WINNERSH RANGERS dropped to third after their game with Frilsham and Yattendon was called off. This is because a 5-0 win for Mortimer Reserves at Cookham Dean saw the promotion rivals swap places in the standings. WOODLEY UNITED A remain in the hunt for promotion after edging out struggling TWYFORD AND RUSCOMBE in Division 3. United stay third and sit just two points of SRCC in second after Lewis Doe and Tom Green secured the points at Woodford Park. Twyford hit back through substitute Severin Geertz, but remain rooted to the foot of the standings. HARCHESTER HAWKS are very much back in the Division 4 promotion chase after following up the previous weekend’s 5-0 rout of Highmoor Knights with a 4-1 success over basement boys

Harchester Hawks (in white) are back in the Division 4 promotion hunt following successive victories Picture: Vivienne Johnson

AFC Corinthians. Ed Battey, Dan Leather, Greg Taylor and substitute Jamie Rolfe all notched for the Hawks, who were denied a second successive clean sheet when Matthew Jennings grabbed a consolation for Corinthians. Victory moves the Earley side up to third, where they are now four points behind Burghfield in second, although the Hawks have played a game more. BERKS COUNTY lead the division by

Twyford ‘keeper Paul Hedges was beaten twice in the loss to Woodley United A

WOMEN’S FOOTBALL

four points having overcome Rotherfield United Reserves in a 2-1 triumph at Bishopswood. Goal machine Connor Banks added another to his impressive tally in the 20th minute, with Callum Shields joining him on the scoresheet in the second half. Michael Simpson ensured United went in at the break on level terms, but they would end the game on the wrong side of the result. Adam Rose popped up with a goal for SONNING SPORTS in the 39th minute of their game with Division 5 leaders TDC Knights. It was to give the side some hope, as they had fallen behind to Joseph Broadley and Ibrahim Koroma goals. The score would remain at 2-1 until the 68th minute, which was when Ian Holmes wrapped up victory for the Knights. Sonning remain fifth and a point behind HURST A, whose game with Woodley United B was abandoned by referee Stephen Smith following an injury to a player. Cup round-up SHINFIELD RANGERS MEN exited the Berkshire Trophy Centre Junior Cup following a 5-0 quarter-final defeat to FC Reading Dons. The Division 4 side marched on to the semi-finals, where they will meet Woodley United A, thanks to a Krisel Fejzullahu brace and further srikes from Oltian Mezhika, Catalin Stan and Ricky Thompson.

THEWOKINGHAMPAPER Friday, March 11, 2016

HELLENIC DIVISION 1 EAST

Woodley left Want-ing as Barder bags brace of goals Wantage Town Reserves 3 Woodley United 0

DESPITE another improved performance, struggling United would leave Alfredian Park nursing a 15th defeat of the season. Sam Barder fired hosts Wantage into a 2-0 half-time lead before Jordan Davies wrapped up the scoring just past the hour mark. Because of results elsewhere, Woodley now sit five points adrift at the foot of the Hellenic Division 1 East table. Although continuing to show encouraging signs under Jock Mowat, the side were once again on the wrong end of the scoreline. The away side started the game well, but it was Town who crafted the first chances of note during the early exchanges, with Harry Broad sending a shot into the arms of Woodley ‘keeper Ben Hitchins. Barder would go even closer minutes later, but broke the deadlock when heading home a free-kick from the left on 10 minutes. The visitors appeared to be engineering a swift response, but a flowing attacking move was ended when George Douglas over hit his pass as he tried to play in Rupen Limbu. But back came Wantage and Barder made it 2-0 in the 18th minute via a powerful effort from the left side of the penalty box. Only some brave defending from Brad Hoy would prevent the hosts grabbing a third moments later, with the player throwing himself in front of a Davies drive. Conor Creegan was to sting the hands of Town’s shot-stopper Harry Whitehead early in the second half, while Douglas

goalmouth scramble before sealing a 3-1 victory with another spot kick, which was this time conceded by Chris Timbers. Results – Sunday, March 6

PREMIER DIVISION: Tilehurst YM 2 DC Steamers 1. DIVISION 1: Woodley Wanderers 2 FC Woodley 1 DIVISION 2: Arborfield 0 Pangbourne and Basildon Barbarians 3; Emmbrook Inn 1 AFC Burghfield Reserves 0; Le Galaxy 5 Loxwood Park Rangers 0; WS Hobnob 1 Athletico Forest 5. DIVISION 3 EAST: Berkshire Rovers 3 Spencers Wood 2; Grosvenor 3 Forest FC 4; Just Play United v East Reading Royals – home walkover victory.

WOODLEY UNITED: Hitchins, Burt (Ingram), Brookling, Bridges (c), Hoy, Mowat (Wareing), Limbu, May, Creegan (Green), Douglas, Lambert

United play their final league game on the road this season at leaders Penn and Tylers Green on Saturday (3pm). Hellenic Division 1 East P W D L Penn & Tylers Green 16 11 3 2 Henley Town 18 11 3 4 Bicester Town 17 11 3 3 Rayners Lane 19 9 5 5 Headington Amateur’s 20 9 3 8 Chinnor 15 9 1 5 Finchampstead 17 7 6 4 Holyport 18 7 4 7 Wantage Town Res’ 17 5 2 10 Didcot Town Res’ 16 4 2 10 Chalfont Wasps 13 3 3 7 Old Woodstock Town 14 3 1 10 Woodley United 18 1 2 15

F 47 50 39 44 40 36 35 32 23 24 18 12 12

A 10 24 28 27 27 23 20 37 42 42 37 40 55

Pts 36 36 36 32 30 28 27 25 17 14 12 10 5

COMBINED COUNTIES LEAGUE

Smith sends Eversley on their way Cobham 0 Eversley and California 2

EVERSLEY continue to keep up the heat on the leading pack thanks to goals in both halves from Brad Smith and Matthew Griffiths. Victory at Mutton Field keeps the Boars in third place, where they remain ahead of Worcester Park via a better goal difference. Smith got the side off to a great start when opening the scoring on seven minutes, but they would not wrap up the win until stoppage time, where Griffiths doubled the advantage. Eversley remain five points behind Abbey Rangers in second and six off leaders Hounslow United – but do have games in hand on both. They host Ash United on Saturday (3pm).

WOMEN’S FOOTBALL

YOUTH FOOTBALL

ROSIE PAGE-SMITH bagged four goals in 25 second-half minutes to help Woodley United to a 6-0 victory at struggling Banbury United in the Premier Division of the Southern Region League. Katie Hardie marked her return from victory by opening the scoring with a 30-yard drive on the half-hour mark before Jess Grimmett made it 2-0 just 10 minutes later. The fixture also saw Nicola Froud back in the United side having given birth to twins. Sixth-placed Woodley are away at Marlow this Sunday (2pm).

BEN ALDERMAN and Kai Evans both scored twice during Wokingham and Emmbrook FC Oranges comprehensive 6-1 victory at Elm Grove Colts Flames. But the visitors would find themselves trailing this East Berkshire Football Alliance Under-13s Division 6 fixture when a long-range free-kick ended up in the back of the net in the eighth minute. The Oranges were back on level terms when substitute Nathan Mulvaney set up Alderman to equalise on 17 minutes. Mulvaney would also lay on man-of-the-match Evans to fire

Sam’s strike against Burghfield in vain Rosie is four-some Clinical Oranges peel Flames apart SAM CIALIS headed Woodley United in front when they took on Premier Division leaders Burghfield – but the goal would later prove to be a consolation. Cialis would break the deadlock on 35 minutes, with the lead arriving not long after Burghfield saw a penalty awarded following a Mike Feasey foul in the box put wide. The table toppers, however, would draw level when full-back Ed Hill could only put the ball through his own net when attempting to make a clearance. They would go ahead nine minutes from time when scoring amid a

was unable to keep his header down when meeting a Matt Brookling cross as Mowat’s men went in search of a lifeline. Yet it was game over for his side when a probing run from Toby Ferrison would result in the substitute laying on Davies to make it 3-0 from eight yards. United, though, remained full of energy, but Douglas should have done better when dragging a strike wide. Tim Green and Pete Wareing were introduced from the bench as the guests attempted to cut the lead – but almost conceded a fourth when Ferrison was tripped over in the box and awarded a penalty. Responsibility from 12 yards belonged to Andrew Barton, but Hitchins was equal to effort diving to his left. Matt Brookling cleared another chance off the line and Green stabbed another opportunity wide as Wantage looked to stretch their advantage, with Limbu and Lambert failing to convert late chances which fell their way.

Combined Counties League Division 1 P W D L F A CB Hounslow Utd 24 17 4 3 56 21 Abbey Rangers 26 17 3 6 60 29 Eversley & Calif 22 16 1 5 66 31 Worcester Park 23 15 4 4 58 23 Bedfont & Feltham 22 15 2 5 56 30 Cobham 27 11 3 13 49 58 Banstead Athletic 19 10 4 5 48 33 Frimley Green 24 10 3 11 39 38 Staines Lammas 25 10 2 13 47 49 Dorking 22 10 1 11 37 37 Ash United 24 8 6 10 44 49 Sandhurst Town 24 7 5 12 40 68 Sheerwater 24 6 2 16 39 56 Dorking Wand Res 21 4 5 12 22 41 Farleigh Rovers 21 5 1 15 22 60 Epsom Athletic 18 4 2 12 28 53 South Park Res 20 3 2 15 25 60

Pts 55 54 49 49 47 36 34 33 32 31 30 26 20 17 16 14 11

Wokingham ahead soon after. James Starkey rattled in a third ten minutes into the second half, with Milo van Vliet making it 4-1. Evans buried a Matty Rodgers pass to extend the away side’s lead to four goals before Alderman nodded home a corner taken by the former to complete an emphatic win. Under-16s CUP specialists Eversley and California defeated Woking Cougars 2-0 to reach a third final in as many weeks. Victory sets up a showdown in the Surrey County Cup. The Boars are also preparing to contest the finals of the Oxford League Cup and Hampshire County Cup.

SPORT | 39

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Friday, March 11, 2016 THEWOKINGHAMPAPER

COUNTY CUP

That’s a Rap: Dan denies Moles shot at Trophy glory Flackwell Heath 2 Binfield 0 DAN RAPLEY was to shoot down his former club as Binfield were denied a place in the final of the Berks and Bucks Senior Trophy. The winger, who spent a season with the Moles in 2013/14, broke the deadlock at Wilks Park on Tuesday night on 48 minutes, with Dan Burnell adding a second later in the half to set up a showdown between Flackwell Health and Newport Pagnell Town later in the year. Roger Herridge’s men, however, were more than a match for their Hellenic Premier Division rivals, but were unable to make the most of the chances which fell their way. It was the Moles too who had one of the best openings of the first 45 minutes. Josh Howell sent Jemel Johnson on his way, only for the opportunity to be quickly snuffed out by another Binfield favourite – Dan Weait. The ‘keeper rushed off his line and would produce a smart save to foil the forward. Strike partner Liam Ferdinand, who went into the game in a rich vein of form, would shave a post before the opposition also struck the frame of the goal. Full back Joel Jacobs let fly from some 30 yards, only to see the shot get the better of Nathan Silver in the visitors goal – but bounce back off the crossbar. Both sides would go in at the break with the score at stalemate, but the initiative was soon seized by the home side. The Heathens are reigning Premier League champions and are once again going strong in the division. Their qualities going forward would

Jemel Johnson went close for Binfield at Wilks Park on Tuesday night Below: Moles boss Roger Herridge Pictures: Colin Byers

Liam Ferdinand hit goals nine and 10 of 2016 to steer Binfield to victory over Tuffley Rovers, a game where Josh Howell (receiving his December Player of the Month award from Alex Lloyd, inset) was on target Pictures: Colin Byers

HELLENIC PREMIER DIVISION

Hot-shot Ferdinand fires Binfield to comeback win Binfield 3 Tuffley Rovers 2

come to the fore when Rapley cut inside from the left and sent a curling strike beyond Silver and into the corner. Binfield duly went in search of a leveller, but the luck for a side good at producing comebacks this season was sadly out on this occasion. And the 2012 winners’ involvement in the competition was all but over when Burnell was first to a ball over the top, where he had the time to steady himself before stretching Flackwell’s lead. The away side will no doubt be keen to quickly put this disappointment behind them before returning to league action on Saturday, where Lydney Town are the visitors to Hill Farm Lane. Kick-off is 3pm.

BINFIELD: Silver, O’Connell, Gibbs, Luis (c), Walton, Broome (Horscroft), Withers, Knight, Ferdinand, Johnson, Howell. Subs not used: Jerome, Dean, M.Walton, Carlisle.

HELLENIC DIVISION 1 EAST

Swabey and Blatchford secure Finchampstead a point Old Woodstock Town 2 Finchampstead 2

HARRY SWABEY and Dan Blatchford popped up with the second half goals which rescued Finchampstead a point at New Road. Despite taking the game to their hosts, Jon Laugharne’s men found themselves trailing 2-0 at the break following quick-fire strikes from Islam Lala and Charlie Gillet. With no substitutes to call upon, it was down to the 11 Finch players available for the fixture to rectify the situation – and they would do just that, with Swabey cutting the gap just a minute after the restart from a free-kick before Blatchford netted a 68th minute penalty to tie up the scores. This was awarded when Town’s Richard Brooks was adjudged to have handed a strike on the line. He would see red for the offence. The away side duly pressed for a winner with the extra man, only to be left frustrated as the opposition held out to secure a vital point in their efforts to pull away from the foot of the Hellenic Division 1 East table – although they may feel it was two dropped. The first chance of the game would fall the way of Woodstock, but the shot at goal was both weak and off target. Finchampstead ‘keeper Tom Bryant was beaten soon after.

Danny Blatchford equalised from the penalty spot

Team-mate and defender Sam Green, however, was on hand to dispossess the Town attacker and any danger was averted. Up the other end and Freddie Barron was wide with one attempt before Blatchford, in trying to pick out the top corner, was over from a free-kick. It was from a set-piece when the hosts went close to breaking the deadlock, but the woodwork would come to the rescue of the opposition on this occasion. Yet when Finch failed to deal with a cross whipped in from the right, Town were celebrating the opening goal. Lala was the scorer, where he was on hand at the far post to beat Bryant with a header.

Things would get even better for the home side just seconds later. Laugharne could only watch on in despair as his side lost possession from the restart, and it would prove costly as Gillet rattled home the second from distance. Blatchford would lay on a chance for Swabey to pull a goal back just before the break, but the forward was unable to convert. He did, though, make amends when burying a free-kick granted to the visitor’s just outside the box with the second half barely 60 seconds old. They would receive another let off when Woodstock again rattled the frame of the goal from a set-piece, yet were soon given the chance to draw level when Brooks was dismissed. Blatchford put the ball down on the spot and confidently sent it past Town No. 1 Michael Bawn. The midfielder would go close to completing the turnaround, but was unable to keep his header down when well placed. Barron also spurned a good chance late on, meaning the honours were shared. FINCHAMPSTEAD: Bryant, M.Wright, Axton-Hall, Callaway, S.Green, J.Wright, Barron, Clarke, Swabey, Rolls, Blatchford.

Due to results elsewhere, Finch dropped to seventh in the standings. Up next for the club is a trip to 10th-placed Chalfont Wasps on Saturday (3pm).

LIAM FERDINAND just cannot stop scoring goals at the moment. But Binfield boss Roger Herridge would have been delighted the forward, who was named the club’s player of the month for January and February, was able to add to his recent tally at the weekend. This is because Ferdinand’s brace completed a comback victory for the Moles and secure the side a third win on the spin. Tuffley arrived at Hill Farm Lane not only looking for the points needed to move out of the relegation zone, but also wanting to avenge the 5-2 loss suffered at the hands of the same opposition just last month. And just like the first fixture back in Gloucestershire, it was Rovers who siezed the initiative. They needed only two minutes to break the deadlock. Charlie Lusty was named in the Binfield goal as replacement for the absent Nathan Silver, but his first job was to pick the ball out of the net when beaten by a Warren Mann strike. It was a sluggish start by the hosts and things were to get even worse when Jordan Fletcher hit a second for the away side on 12 minutes. Binfield just could not get going, but they would go in at the break trailing by just the two goals. The language used by Herridge during the interval was probably industrial, but was to have the desired affect. Just three minutes after the break and his side were back in the game. Josh Howell, who picked up his December Player of the Month accolade

POSTPONEMENT

before kick-off, was to halve the deficit with a well-taken strike. Binfield are notorious for comebacks this season, having successfully picked up all three points from similar situations on six occasions prior to the visit of Tuffley. And they would get back on terms when Ferdinand, who started the afternoon having found the net six times in his previous three outings, opened his account for the afternoon. This was the forward’s ninth goal of 2016 – and number 10 was not long coming. It would arrive on 80 minutes and settled an absorbing contest, meaning Binfield consolidated ninth spot in the Hellenic Premier Division. Not only were Tuffley left beaten, but manager Warren Evans was to resign from his post afterwards, although this was due to work commitments. BINFIELD: Lusty, O’Connell, Gibbs, Luis (c), Broome, Withers (M.Walton), Knight, Howell (Rowland), Ferdinand, Jerome, Dean (Horscroft). Hellenic Premier Division P W D L F A Pts Thatcham Town 31 24 4 3 91 39 76 Kidlington 27 21 3 3 87 27 66 Flackwell Heath 29 21 3 5 79 37 66 Ascot United 32 18 7 7 61 33 61 Highworth Town 27 18 2 7 71 26 56 Thame United 32 17 4 11 49 39 55 Brimscombe & Thrupp 27 15 3 9 50 40 48 Longlevens AFC 32 15 2 15 51 57 47 Binfield 27 14 4 9 54 43 46 Highmoor-Ibis 30 13 3 14 47 46 42 Oxford City Nomads 29 12 5 12 47 50 41 Royal Wootton Bassett 32 12 4 16 47 73 40 Lydney Town 29 10 8 11 52 55 38 Ardley United 31 11 2 18 52 68 35 Brackley Town Saints 33 10 3 20 58 81 33 Milton United 33 6 8 19 41 77 26 Bracknell Town 27 6 7 14 39 57 25 Tuffley Rovers 27 6 6 15 47 62 24 Abingdon United 34 6 3 25 41 96 21 Wokingham 29 2 3 24 29 87 9

GOAL-FEST

Sumas are left saturated Ainsworth has six appeal SATURDAY’S local derby between Wokingham and Emmbrook and Bracknell Town was beaten by the weather. The playing surface at the Invesco Perpetual Triangle was waterlogged and failed a pitch inspection. The two Hellenic Premier Division rivals will try again on Thursday, March 31. Kick-off will be 7.45pm. Wokingham and Emmbrook are in Bluefin Sports Supplementary Cup action on Saturday, where they are away at Moreton Rangers in a second round tie (3pm).

GARETH AINSWORTH struck an impressive six goals as Finchampstead Sunday Athletic handed Bracknell Manics a 15-0 hiding. The Wycombe Wanderers boss was joined on the scoresheet during this Bracknell and District Sunday League Premier Division clash by Jamie Currie, Byron Hobbs, James Kirby, and Matthew Whittle, who all bagged braces. Michael Starnes was also on target. Finch stay fifth in the standings. Elsewhere, the Reserves won 3-1 at Warfield (Div 2) and the A team drew 2-2 with Bearwood Wanderers in Division 3.

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McDermott awaiting news on injured trio ahead of Palace cup clash QUESTION MARKS remain over the fitness of Reading trio Matej Vydra, Paul McShane and Hal Robson-Kanu ahead of tonight’s FA Cup quarter-final with Crystal Palace at Madejski Stadium (7.55pm – live on BBC TV). Boss Brian McDermott (pictured) has a mental picture of the XI he would like to line up against the Premier League Eagles, but had hoped to know more about the

Palace, the Royals boss added: “Who off at half-time with an Achilles issue. three players when the side returned HOW IT ALL STARTED knows. It is out of my hands. We will “Paul McShane trained, Vyds to training on Thursday. see if they (Vydra) Robson-Kanu Striker Vydra My first job was helping outhas in a been local steak restaurant wheretrained I learnedand how Hal to select and cook what I think is the perfectcome steak.through tomorrow I moved tosidelined Reading 30with yearsaago and to my disappointment was not ablesaid to find a restaurant that servedand the food I loved there.” most. go from trained Tuesday,” McDermott. hamstring My dream was to open a steakhouse in Reading that would serve the quality of steak I had experienced all those years back. McDermott made six changes to “I think everybody came through problem for some weeks, Finally, I had the opportunity to buy Colleys Supper Rooms, a restaurant that had been established in Reading for over 20 years in a beautiful side thechance gameto(on Tuesday) so we’re captain McShane Victorian building that while I had always admired. I knew I had the achieve my dream. I opened Barts in Febthe 2011 andwhich with the took help ofon myHuddersfield, fantastic team we have been serving exceptional a great environment is continually admitting it wasevolving done so with tonight’s alright.” ever since. The décor and atmosphere missed Saturday’s 2-2steaks inlooking thanks to our loyal patrons. The menu has grown since we“We first opened and Iagain am proud to have say that the quality game of food in hasmind. only got better. will train and draw with Fulham said: “I have got my team and it another thetogether 3-1 lossdishes at inspired by Here at Barts, and we bring cuisines little from alllook overtomorrow the world but centered around ourHe renowned steaks done and sorted in my mind. we’ll see.quality, Obviously Huddersfield Town on and seafood. We specialise in offering(Thursday) you the steaksand of the highest provided by localis butchers, foraa calf minimum of 28 Vyds days, flame grilled for superior tastetoo andmuch succulence. “Obviously we have got to get the hasn’t played or done Tuesdayaged with training session sorted for Thursday, for a period of time, but the other two strain. Jamshed Miah welcomes you to Barts Grill & Restaurant get through it and then nail it down have been playing, so that’s not too Robson-Kanu was also Friday, but in my mind it is done.” bad, but we’ll need to check on that.” absent at the John Smith’s n FOR more Royals news, turn to page When asked how he would rate all Stadium. The forward netted a brace 37. three for making a comeback against against the Cottagers, but was forced

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ICE HOCKEY

Bracknell Bees unveil future plans – and Smital is keen to be part of it

‘I want to carry on with the club’ By LEWIS RUDD lrudd@wokinghampaper.co.uk LUKAS SMITAL wants to stay on as Bracknell Bees player-coach, but admits doing so all depends on the future of the club. Since handed the reins back in 2013, the forward’s time taking charge of those on the ice have often been interrupted by matters off it – none more so than in recent months. A cash flow problem due to cancelled games and a drop in the sale of season tickets, among other things, has hit the Bees badly. Because of this, several key players have moved on and a campaign which began with such promise has once again ended in frustration, with the team bottom of the EPIHL having won just nine of 49 fixtures this term. Smital and some of his roster were present at a fans forum held by the club’s hierarchy on Monday night, where he revealed he and the rest of the squad are keen to remain at the club. The Czech, however, made it clear he needs answers soon with regards to being given the green light to start preparing for 2016-17. With just over a week of the regular season remaining, it is around this time when teams start putting plans in place for the new term. Smital has had to remain patient while club bosses put together a better financial picture going forward, but is now beginning to worry rival teams could start poaching some of his younger talent. “Obviously I would like to stay and carry on playing, but it remains unknown still and all depends on how I feel and what happens with the club,” said Smital, who has racked up more than 350 appearances for the club. “We have got to look after these guys, especially the younger ones because teams will go after them, and if someone has a good season then they will try and take them, so that needs to be sorted. “No, it’s not happening yet (looking to next season). It’s around now when you have a look out for what is around, what you can get, how you can improve and what is available and that kind of thing. “I’m hoping in the next few days I will know more and what we can do.” Some 150 supporters packed out the Honies Restaurant on Monday, where they heard chairman Andrew Cross and Ben Beeching,

general manager, explain in detail the situation the club finds itself in and how they are looking to address it. Those present heard the coffers were some £74,000 shy of estimated budgets and the total in unpaid wages to the players AVAILABLE amounts to 12:00 - 17:00 around £9,000. Roast Beef 8.95 marinated beef, with sauté The latter,Overnight however, should beserved covered by amixed vegetables (Baby Carrots, Broccoli, Cauliflower, Green Beans), oven roasted potatoes, honey glazed roasted parsnips, bill owed toYorkshire the club by rink owner John Nike gravy. Accompanied by horseradish sauce. pudding, topped with Barts homemade following three cancelled games earlier in the Roast Lamb 8.95 summer. Overnight marinated lamb, served with sauté mixed vegetables (Baby Carrots, Broccoli, A date atCauliflower, the end Green of June is when the Beans), oven roasted potatoes, honey glazed roasted parsnips, Yorkshire financial side of pudding, this season is expected to be topped with Barts homemade mint gravy. Accompanied by mint sauce. closed. Going forward, and Beeching TAKE THE Cross DAY OFF FROM COOKING THIS WEEK AND TREAT YOURSELF, FAMILY OR FRIENDS TO SUPERB SUNDAY ROAST explained how, subject to approval, theA club will be set up as a charity which will allow the ownership of Bees to be expanded through the creation of a committee tasked with taking charge of off-ice activities. A ‘Made in Bracknell’ programme aims to WWW.BARTSGRILL.COM greater nurture all home ground talent, 0118with 966 2268 it hoped all British players would be Bracknell Ice Hockey Club trained, while communication with fans and match night experiences will be improved. The forum also heard next season’s budget has been worked out at £250,000 – which will include signing the quota of four imports. Smital, meanwhile, would not be drawn on his thoughts about the matter, saying: “I’m a positive person, I will leave it at that.” The 41-year-old drew praise from supporters for the rousing speech he gave at the event, and the feeling is very much mutual. “What a turnout it was (on Monday). “You can see how important Bracknell Bees are to those fans, so I just hope the situation is resolved quite quickly.” Bees are out tonight for the first of three games this weekend, where they head to Hull Pirates for a re-arranged fixture (6pm). Smital and co were due in Humberside for the game last Friday, but had to ask for a postponement due to transport issues. Bees head north again on Saturday for a ISSN 2058-5268 game with Sheffield Steeldogs (7.30pm) before Peterborough Phantoms visit the Hive on Sunday (6pm). Smital could be missing as many as four players for the Pirates game due to work and college commitments. n FOR more Bracknell Bees news, turn to page 9 772058 526009 34.

SUNDAY ROAST

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Lukas Smital is keen to stay on as Bracknell Bees coach – but needs assurances from the club’s owners Picture: Bob Swann

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