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Day Day Day

Delivered free to 6000 Homes and Businesses

February March 2009

Issue 19

The Connections Our Favourite Local Magazine

Helens Hairy HoundsHelens Hairy HoundsHelens Hairy Hounds

Mobile Dog Grooming Service

Pamper Your Dog In

The Comforts Of Your Own Home

Trimming/Clipping Brushing/Bathing

Turbo Drying / Ear Cleaning /Nail Clipping

Friendly Reliable Service

City & Guilds Trained

Tel 07766 303476

www.helenshairyhounds.com

PROFESSIONAL CHIMNEY SWEEP Established 1895 N.A.C.S. member

CAGES, CAPS and COWLS FITTED

(01635) 45175 (Call at any time)

Telephone Extensions S u p p l y & I n s t a l l a t i o n s e r v i c e s Professionally fitted to BABT regulations anywhere into your propertyProfessionally fitted to BABT regulations anywhere into your propertyProfessionally fitted to BABT regulations anywhere into your property

* Extension telephone points * Broadband ADSL telephone points

* Sky Digital telephone points * Telephone line faults repaired * All work guaranteed * Free estimates/Competitive prices

0118 984 5184 0778 793 4883 0118 9744294

WEBB TELECOM

Baby Massage Classes

Email: roundways88@btinternet.com www.iaim.org

01635 867300

With

Deborah

For all your soft furnishing and sewing needs

Curtains, blinds, pelmets and

alterations. Fabric choices and advice avail-able

Contact:

Judy Connolly

07747 634556 www.indigodesign.co.uk

Innovative, stylish products for your baby or toddler.

Host your own party &

enjoy great discounts.

www.bambambaby.co.uk

01635 41230

Innovative, stylish products for

your baby or toddler.

Host your own party &

enjoy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy oy gregregregregregregregregregregregregregregregregregregregregregregregregregregregregregregregregreat discounts.

www.bambambaby.co.uk

01635 41230

Small Ads

The school offers a range of dance classes for adults -

Ballroom, Latin American and Sequence Dancing. All abilities welcome from two left

footers with little sense of

rhythm to those who wish to improve their technique and style - up to, and including, competition standard. Classes in Cold Ash & Newbury

01635 580930 www.1stepahead.info

School of DanceSchool of DanceSchool of Dance

ursula@thatchamconnections.co.uk 0118 9886070 www.thatchamconnections.co.uk 3

www.thatchamconnections.co.uk

Dear Readers

WELCOME

to our first issue in 2009.

I do hope you had a lovely Christmas holiday and the

shock of being back to nor-mality isnt now too great!

It is most encouraging to know that many of the adver-

tisers in this magazine feel that you are actively support-

ing them - thank you. I notice this particularly in this eco-nomic climate, when I receive

positive comments about the magazine. If we continue to

think positively and keep it local, we will all ride out the

storm.

An additional warm thank you to all those people who sent in their completed slip with

name and address to be en-tered into the Waitrose ham-

per draw. We had over 60 entries and congratulations to

Mr. Benham who was our lucky winner! It was really

good to see such a great re-sponse.

My Home (see page 37) have

very kindly supplied this months prize - a house clean worth 75! To be included in

this draw, please will you return the slip below by 1st

March to me (address oppo-site.)

With all best wishes

e: ursula@thatchamconnections.co.uk

Stable 5, Gravelly Bridge Farm-

house Grazeley, Reading. RG71LG

Telephone 0118 9886070

Printer: Newman Thomson

Copy deadline for next issue

6 March 2009

Editor:

Ursula Aitken

DISCLAIMER:

Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that data in

this publication is accurate, neither the publisher nor its

editorial contributors can ac-cept any liability to any party

for loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting

from negligence, accident or any other case.

Thatcham Connections Maga-

zine does not officially en-dorse any advertising mate-

rial included within this publi-cation. No part of this publi-

cation may be reproduced, stored in any retrieval sys-

tems or transmitted in any form, without prior permis-

sion of the publisher.

Contents Page

Music, Movies and More 20

Small is Beautiful 28

Book Reviews 33

St Valentines Day 35

Gardening Pages 44/45

Wordsearch 48

Challenge Page 50

Woolhampton Meet and Greet

Day 51

Community Pages 52/53

Index 54

t wt wt wt wt wt wt wt wt wt wt wt wt wt wt wt wt wt wt wt wt wt wt wt wt wt wt wt wt wt wt wt wt wt wt wt wt wt wt wt wt wt wt wt wt wt wt wt wt wt wt wt wt wt wt wt wt wt wt wt wt wt wt wt wishishes

Please note - next latest copy date : Mid-day Friday 6 March 2009

The front cover photograph has kindly

been supplied by Maria Dobson, a

member of the Thatcham

Photographic Club.

www.norriesite.com

I WOULD LIKE MY NAME TO BE

INCLUDED IN THE DRAW FOR

THE MYHOME HOUSE CLEAN

(VALUE 75)

NAME:

ADDRESS:

PHONE

EMAIL ADDRESS

ursula@thatchamconnections.co.uk 0118 9886070 www.thatchamconnections.co.uk 5

With our straight forward casting process we can save precious moments in your life to touch and hold forever.

We can cast anything from a babys tiny finger to an adult torso or a dogs paw.

We can present your memory in a wide range of finishes including our popular choices of Bronze resin, Aluminium Resin and Marble plaster. We also cast in solid metal or

simple plaster to suit your requirements.

To find out more on how to keep a unique record of babys hands and feet or preserve the tender touch of a loved one forever, please contact us for a free consultation in your

home or at our studio.

All Aspects of Plastering

Skimming / Rendering

Screeding

Partition Walls & Ceilings

Suspended Ceilings

For Free Quotes & Advice

Please Call on

07827 669080

or

0118 9418008

B B Cedar Ceramics

Professionally trained, domestic & commercial, wall & floor tiler.

Experienced, reliable, courteous, competent and friendly!

Free no-obligation estimate at a time to suit you.

Discounts on the tiles you choose,

and free delivery to your door! For more information, other

services, photographs and recommendations see my website :

or

Contact ROSS on

01635 299372 Mobile: 07790 226089

www.cedarceramics.co.uk

T i l i n g S p e c i a l i s t

ursula@thatchamconnections.co.uk 0118 9886070 www.thatchamconnections.co.uk 7

I am often asked What should my ideal

weight be? This is such a difficult

question to answer. I feel that too

much emphasis is put on weight and

not enough emphasis on being healthy.

The first consideration is body shape.

Unless you go under the knife, there

are certain factors that wont change.

If you were born a pear shape (small

waist and large thighs), no amount of

dieting is going to change that. In fact

you could end up looking really ill. And

as you get older there are body

changes that are going to happen -

come what may. However, a healthy

body, of whatever age, will make you

look great. Well toned muscles give

good body shape and a clear skin

achieved by a healthy diet makes a

person look well at any age!

How do you achieve this? The answer

is surprisingly simple, but difficult to

follow! Eat a healthy diet, drink water,

take exercise. What could be easier?

Eating a healthy diet means avoiding

processed foods, saturated fats, re-

fined sugars and grains. Processed

and refined foods are very addictive.

There is an advert for a certain type of

crisp snack which says You just cant

pop one! Too right, you end up

munching the whole bowlful because

once those chemicals hit your digestive

system, your body craves more! Re-

fined grains (white flour products) are

quick to digest and are far less satisfy-

ing than unrefined grains (wholewheat

products, oats and rye) which take

longer to digest and therefore stay in

the stomach longer keeping you feeling

full. This is why you often feel really

hungry half way through the morning if

all you have had for breakfast is a slice

of white toast. In fact if you have a

white bread sandwich at lunchtime too

you are going to

have a serious

blood sugar drop

in the afternoon

and that is when

all resolve goes

out of the window

as you grab the

nearest chocolate

biscuit to appease

those lowered

blood sugar crav-

ings!

Drinking water is good for you. It keeps

you hydrated and therefore keeps your

organs healthy and your brain working.

A 2% drop in hydration causes difficulty

with simple maths problems and fuzzy

thinking. A little alcohol goes a long

way Im afraid all the calories in alco-

hol are empty which means that they

just go to building fat. Both tea and

coffee are dehydrating and can induce

stress as caffeine increases the heart

rate. Try white, green or fruit teas - all

of which are tasty, light and will help

with digestion.

Exercise is not so hard either! We live

in one of the most beautiful parts of

Southern England. Get out there and go

for a walk! Join a local dancing class,

even better go with your partner and

make it a fun night out! We are well

served with local swimming pools, riding

schools, badminton, tennis, squash,

rugby, golf and football clubs. There

really is no excuse. The Catch 22 is that

you feel too tired to exercise, however if

you made the effort to exercise you

would have so much more energy!

Theresa Wright

Health Therapist

0118 9710255

e-mail Theresa@theresamwright.com

www.theresamwright.com

Feature Our Health Therapist - Theresa Wright

See page 31

Want more Energy?

ursula@thatchamconnections.co.uk 0118 9886070 www.thatchamconnections.co.uk 9

Geoffrey Church & Co FUNERAL DIRECTORSFUNERAL DIRECTORSFUNERAL DIRECTORS

For a personal and dignified service

at all times

* Personal Service - 24 Hours * Private Chapels of Rest

* All types of Memorials, supplied and fixed

* Pre-payment Funeral Plans available

* Enquiries welcome

HUNGERFORD

48a High Street Tel: 01488 686830

THATCHAM

Churchgate, The Broadway Tel: 01635 868444

TADLEY

48 Bishopswood Road Tel: 0118 9814420

Lady Painter Jackie Cleaver

07771 636990

Nightingales Swim School

Small, friendly classes

for all ages & abilities.

Sunday morning lessons at

Downe House School,

Cold Ash, Thatcham

We have some spaces left

for this term .

Call now for availability!

Telephone 01264 771043 or email info@nightingales-swim-school.co.uk

ursula@thatchamconnections.co.uk 0118 9886070 www.thatchamconnections.co.uk 11

Bookings being taken for lessons at Brockhurst School and Downe House School, Thatcham

Call 0845 094 1575 (local rate) rose@swimlessons.co.uk

CHILDRENS

Str

oke

impr

over

s sn

orke

lling

Divin

g

We are looking for ASA Level 1 and Level 2 Swimming Teachers

Small friendly classes Beginners from 3years

BOOK NOW FOR

FEBRUARY HALF TERM

CRASH COURSE

16th-20th February

Only 6 children per class

Beginners, Improvers, Snorkelling & Diving

ASA recognised Award Scheme (term course only)

CRB checked

www.swimlessons.co.uk

M O N K E Y L O O K S F O R W A R D T O W E L C O M I N G Y O U !

ursula@thatchamconnections.co.uk 0118 9886070 www.thatchamconnections.co.uk 13

www.jubileedaynursery.co.uk

Padworth Common, Berkshire, RG7 4JD

0118 9701600

Fun French

Music and

Dance

Soft-play

Cooking

Drama

Early Years

Foundations Stage

Gardening

Fantastic Outdoor play facilities

Animal Care

Arts and Crafts

Woodland Adventures

Healthy home cooked meals

Ofsted Registered

ursula@thatchamconnections.co.uk 0118 9886070 www.thatchamconnections.co.uk 15

ursula@thatchamconnections.co.uk 0118 9886070 www.thatchamconnections.co.uk 17

COMMERCIAL AND DOMESTIC

WHEELERS GREEN WAY, THATCHAM

07875 386490

mpelectrics@ymail.com

NAPIT registered

Free no obligation quote

Fully insured

ELECTRICIAN

Specialists in plumbing and heating. We

are registered to install and

service all systems.

We offer many other maintenance

services, including:

Electrical

Carpentry

Installing bathrooms and kitchens

We always offer free quotes for our services

and free call outs.

Call us now on 01635 826770 or 07771 653289

www.plumbersberkshire.co.uk

THATCHAM & NEWBURYTHATCHAM & NEWBURYTHATCHAM & NEWBURY MAINTENANCE SERVICESMAINTENANCE SERVICESMAINTENANCE SERVICES

plumbing / heating

electrical / carpentry

Small Building

email: williams.ronald@binternetcom

01635

268544

Thornford Road Crookham Common Newbury RG19 8EL

Good Homes required for Ex-Racing Greyhounds

All Dogs Walked Daily Professional Care and Attention at all times

Viewing welcome by appointment For further details please ring

(free to suitable homes)

ursula@thatchamconnections.co.uk 0118 9886070 www.thatchamconnections.co.uk 19

Since 1894 we have been subject to tax on the transfer of

wealth on death. What was once known as Estate Duty has

evolved over the years to become Inheritance Tax (IHT). This

tax is now becoming more common and, at a current rate of

40%, is rather expensive. So what can we do to save our hard

earned money, which has already been taxed through our

lifetime, being charged more tax when we die?

Any assets left to a spouse or civil partner will be free of IHT.

You will also be able to use the nil-rate band. This is the

current tax free allowance and anyone can leave up to

312,000 to the beneficiaries of their estate, via their Will, free of IHT. This allow-

ance rises to 325,000 in the 2009/2010 tax year and to 350,000 by the

2010/2011 tax year.

You can actually give away any surplus income free of IHT subject to a few basic

rules. Children and grandchildren will welcome this in these tough economic times. If

you really dont want to give the income directly to the child then why not consider

paying into something longer term for them such as a pension?

Have you thought of considering a PET not a dog or cat but a Potentially

Exempt Transfer? At any time you can give away property, cash or other invest-

ments. Survive for seven years after you gave them away they and will be deemed

free of IHT. Also, beware! If you make a gift with strings attached known as a gift

with reservation, it will still count as part of your estate, no matter how long you

live after making it. A common mistake is if you give your house to your children and

carry on living there without paying them a full commercial rent, the value of your

house will still be liable for Inheritance Tax.

Dont forget to use your annual gift exemptions. Theres a 3,000 Annual Ex-

emption plus you can also give away 250 to as many people as you like each tax

year this is called the Small Gifts Exemption. Each parent can also give to any child

5,000 each on marriage with Grandparents able make gifts of 2,500.

Finally, give to a charity - gifts to charities and political parties are completely

exempt from IHT.

Inheritance Tax is only for the wealthy, isnt it?

please see page 25 Simon Claxton can be contacted on 01635 202001

Feature Our Financial Expert, Simon Claxton

New releases are a little thin on the

ground at this time of year, but there

are some fine things around. Save your

pennies for an 11-CD set of Led

Zeppelins albums in a mini-LP style

box; metal band Saxon return with a

new studio release, Into The

Labyrinth complete with DVD too;

London songstress Lily Allens latest

album is Its Not Me, Its You;

Crosby, Stills & Nash issue a

compilation of anti-war material,

Allies.

Meanwhile Steven Stills solo

album Mannassa receives a smart

new re-mastered release; fresh from

his big 2008 hit, Kid Rocks latest

album is Southern Rock Tribute.

Scots rockers Franz Ferdinand

return with their third album the

excitingly titled Tonight: Franz

Ferdinand and finally, if you love the

Eurythmics, all their albums receive a

new release in re-mastered and

expanded formats all at budget

prices.

On the movie front there are some

interesting new releases. The Spirit is

a fine film based on Will Eisners iconic

comic-book this is a live-action

version, directed by Frank Miller

starring Samuel L Jackson as a dead

detective who returns from beyond the

grave; The Soloist is a true-life tale of

a homeless musical prodigy who

befriends a local journalist it features

Jamie Foxx and Robert Downey

Junior.

Kate Winslet and Leonardo

Dicaprio star in a story of the ups and

downs of married life in 1950s

Connecticut Revolutionary Road.

The famous David Frost interviews with

former US president Richard Nixon are

reprised with Frost/Nixon starring

Michael Sheen as Frost and a highly

believable Frank Langella as Nixon;

and Valkyrie, the movie about the plot

to kill Hitler during WWII arrives

directed by Bryan Singer and starring

Tom Cruise, Kenneth Brannagh and

Bill Nighy.

On the DVD front, some cult TV

shows appear at long last try

Tripods, the BBC science fiction serial

based on the John Christopher novels;

Sutherlands Law a Scotland set

crime series starring Iain

Cuthbertson as the eponymous

Sutherland; catch the complete set of

Auf Wiedersehen Pet in an Ultimate

Box Set; the recent BBC hit Little

Dorrit receives a DVD release as does

the excellent HBO series about one of

the first US presidents, John Adams.

Alan Dorey www.themusicalbus.com

Essential Selections

Leonard Dicaprio appears in new film Revolutionary Road.

Feature Music, Movies & More - News & Views with Alan Dorey

ursula@thatchamconnections.co.uk 0118 9886070 www.thatchamconnections.co.uk 21

For all Ages Very Competitive Prices

If We Dont Stock It We Can Get It All Your Crafting Need In One

K n i t t i n g m a t e r i a l s H a n d M a d e P a p e r D e c o u p a t c h

114 Bartholomew Street Newbury Berkshire RG14 5DT

Hermitage based

Thatcham based

Concrete Pumping Services

278A Benham Hill Thatcham

Berkshire RG18 3AJ Mobile Concrete Service For many jobs including beautiful patios For style For inaccessible places Trade and DIY

Mobile: 07515 154722 Telephone: 01635 865069

Email: alan24_7@btopenworld.com

Est. over 20 years

www.jmsofteners.co.uk

Service & Repairs of most makes Free site survey without obligation

Professional advice given

Visit our showroom: Unit 1, The Old Mill, Reading Road, Pangbourne, Berkshire, RG8 7HY

Supply and fit hardwood flooring Restore and repair original floors

Free Quotes Personal and Professional Service

Competitive prices Fully Insured

Tel: 01488 684078 Mob: 07931330310

www.oaktree-floors.co.uk

Hungerford

Locally based

Tel: Mike Charlton

on (M) 07895088910 (H) 01189 714034

L.M.C

ursula@thatchamconnections.co.uk 0118 9886070 www.thatchamconnections.co.uk 25

HOME COMPUTER TROUBLEHOME COMPUTER TROUBLEHOME COMPUTER TROUBLE---SHOOTERSHOOTERSHOOTER

Having trouble understanding your computer?

Using e-mails,

Internet browsing, creating address books/labels or

invitations/cards, digital photos, or just not the

faintest idea where

to start! Need to set up a wireless

network, converting

to broadband or any other hardware

needs.

Im here to help. Contact Sarah Sladen

07979378408 or 01635 299429

L E T S F A C E F A C T S :

Fusion Financial Management is a trading name of 2plan Ltd 2plan Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority. It is entered on

the FSA register (www.fsa.gov.uk) under reference 461598.

With people living longer,

the strain on State benefits growing,

and 1 in 9 baby Boomers forecast

to live to 100 ...

Call Simon Claxton at Fusion Financial Management

on 01635 202001

First meeting is free to establish

whether I can help!

Would you like :

The Truth about what you should and shouldn't do with your money?

To get a f irmer idea of where you

are heading f inancial ly?

To check that your ex ist ing

prov isions, such as l ife assurance

or pensions are rea lly right for you?

To take control of your f inances

without necessar ily be ing sold anything - and see your l ifesty le

improve?

Bruce Bamber Advanced Diploma in Integrative Counselling

Member of the British Association for Counselling

and Psychotherapy (MBACP)

Who said life was easy?

Whether as a last resort, to get things back to how they used

to be, or to make things better than they ever have been, counselling may be able to help. depression - stress - bereavement

relationship difficulties - anxiety - self esteem - guilt - sexual issues - confidence - anger - self-harm -

coping - life choices - abuse

t. 07769 783424 Based in Newbury

Confidential Counselling ServiceConfidential Counselling Service

ursula@thatchamconnections.co.uk 0118 9886070 www.thatchamconnections.co.uk 27

12 Lamb Close Thatcham

Berkshire RG18 3UE

01635 872285 07849078204

Woodwork/decorating

Install laminate flooring

Flat pack assembly

Shelving

Garden Tidying, shed building

Any jobs that need doing around the

house or garden

I am reliable and honest.

Reasonable costs

References available

Fully insured

Having worked for 27 years within the

construction industry and with a love of outdoor work, it is not surprising

that Pete is now launching his new

business as a Handyman.

Pete can do most things around the

house and garden. (See below for a

selection of tasks.) He is equally happy to tackle both the small and

the not so small.

www.berkshirehandymanservices.co.uk

PETER KIRKHAM

YOUR LOCAL HANDYMAN

The key to success is to take care of your customers, give them excellent service whilst being efficient and cutting out unnecessary costs.

The gloom and doom of financial markets and the media of

late, suggests that much of the world appears to be heading for recession at the moment. Some may be over-reacting to

the current situation.

You might want to think about the following:

Loyalty Customers are only interested in being able to get from you a product or service with the minimum of fuss and the maximum of convenience - their convenience. Any or-

ganisation that can consistently deliver good service will win

both gratitude and loyalty - and thats surely what we all

want.

Costs. Customers dont give a monkey about your firms costs so remember that that if you are only giving them what they need, they are not paying for what they dont

need!

Be waste conscious - What can you avoid? Its the little things that soon add up!

Size doesnt matter. Big and remote is the mantra of the

past, the driving principle of General Motors and other beached whales of the industrial world. SMALL AND LOCAL is

the most efficient way to deliver most services, and plenty of products too.

What do you do well? Stop worrying a about the scale of your business and think more about the flow. Concentrate

on what you can do well with your current customers. An organisation that acts efficiently from receipt of order to

delivery will have lower overall costs and faster throughput.

Finally worry less about competition and build co-operation. The parts of a system - which includes customers and sup-

pliers - have to work together. A system can only be opti-mised as a whole, to a recognised aim and purpose. Of

course it competes with others in the marketplace, but the aim must be for everyone to gain - owners, employees and

society - over the long term. And satisfied customers are the most important part of your system.

Taking care of customers you serve the companys financial goals, while the reverse is not the case.

Local businesses - now is the time to get out there and be

seen!

Its no go my honey love, its

no go my poppet;

Work your hands from day to

day, the winds will blow the

profit.

The glass is falling hour by

hour, the glass will fall for

ever,

But if you break the bloody

glass you wont hold up the

weather.

Louis MacNeice in

Bagpipe Music

Feature Small is Beautiful.

ursula@thatchamconnections.co.uk 0118 9886070 www.thatchamconnections.co.uk 29

Meeting on a monthly basis in groups of 10 - 25, at

The Regency Park Hotel Thatcham RG18 3RP

Connections Coffee Connections Coffee Connections Coffee offers all business people

a professional

(though very friendly) opportunity to network together

5.00 monthly.

For more details of dates & times

ring Ursula Aitken 0118 9886070

email: ursula@thatchamconnections.co.uk

www.thatchamconnections.co.uk

What some of our local business men and women say:

We recycle as many pc parts as we

can and try to keep even the older

machines working so avoiding cus-

tomers buying new if there is still life

left in their old machines - Thatcham

PC Doctors

We have grown our business slowly

over the past years which has allowed

us to keep control and guide the busi-

ness towards success. - GR Swimming

Schools

Outsourcing IT, compliance and re-

port writing has enabled me to con-

centrate my time more efficiently on

what I do best - advising clients-

Fusion Financial Management

Providing a personal and flexible ap-

proach - an individual service for

each one of our customers- My Home

I have used networking successfully

since I started. The camaraderie in

these difficult times keeps the spirits

up. A smile goes a long way with all

my clients. - Health Therapist

Theresa Wright

Organic beef, lamb and chicken home produced

on our own farm which has been certified

organic since 2000

Rare breed organic pork

organic vegetables

As a family we are increasingly aware of how important it is to

know exactly where our food is sourced and what it has been

subject to before it ends up on our plates. The use of fruit and

vegetable box schemes and meat boxes are a very economical

and convenient way to buy organic produce. We aim to provide

you with a very high quality frozen meat at an affordable price.

Eling Farm, Hermitage, Newbury, Berkshire RG18 9XR

Tel: 01635 200021

Email:elingfarm@clara.co.uk

Eling Farm is located between Hermitage and Yattendon or between Hermitage and Hampstead Norreys just off the B4009

Opening Times

Wednesday, Friday and Saturday 9am - 1 pm

PANG VALLEY ORGANICS Organic Produce at an affordable price.

ursula@thatchamconnections.co.uk 0118 9886070 www.thatchamconnections.co.uk 31

THE SIX BELLS

The Green

Beenham

RG7 5NX

01189 01189 01189

713368713368713368

Four Star Inn

AA rating

Proprietors: Glynis & Chris

CAMRA Pub of the Year West Berkshire Branch

Campaign for Real Ale

Meals served

every evening

and lunch-times

Wed-Sun

Traditional Sunday Roast

lunches

Real Fires Cosy Atmosphere

Try one of Chris Famous Home-made

pies!

Real Fires Cosy Atmosphere

THERESA WRIGHT

HEALTH THERAPIST

T 0118 9710255

M 0777 5708431

E theresa@theresamwright.com

W www.theresamwright.com

TREATMENTS

REMEDIAL MASSSAGE THERAPY

AROMATHERAPY MASSAGE

FITNESS & HEALTH CONSULTATION

ONE ON ONE FITNESS COACHING

SIX WEEK HEALTHY EATING PROGRAMME

Theresa

has her own

exclusive private gym and clinic

- so you can be assured

of total privacy

Bernies Hair & Beauty Barn

Kennet Holme Farm Buildings, Bath Road, Midgham RG7 5UX Telephone: 01189 713 562

Kim Jones

With 8 years beauty experience, Kim delivers a high quality service in all of her treatments. This is supported by extensive product knowledge including Dermalogica, Bio sculpture, Jessica manicures and pedicures, Fake bake tanning, Crystal clear microdermabrasion and Hot stone massage.

For more information and bookings please call 07717507839

Martin has over fifteen years of international experience as a professional hair stylist. He has worked extensively throughout Europe, including West End London.

Martin brings special flair and passion for hairdressing. Maybe he can inspire you to have a great hair cut or hair up?

For a free consultation please call me.

Stay beautiful!

07766765109

Martin-Roman Karlsson

Jill Wolstenholme

Whilst many see a massage as a luxury item, Jill believes it can

benefit all. Whether its ability to combat stress, ease aches and pains or just for relaxation purposes, she is keen to promote it as part of our everyday lives.

Her range of treatments include Swedish and Indian Head Massage, Remedial, Pregnancy and Hot Stone Massage - or a luxurious Ayurvedic Facial. For more information, please call Jill 07786 415177

ursula@thatchamconnections.co.uk 0118 9886070 www.thatchamconnections.co.uk 33

With Valentines Day creeping up on us,

love is in the air and what better way to

get in the mood than with a good romance

novel. Here is the best of the bunch, both old and new.

Wuthering Heights by Emily Bront P e r h a p s n o t a conventional romance,

this is a dark gothic

tale set on the

Yorkshire Moors where were told of our hero,

the mean and moody Heathcliff (no, not Cliff

Richard), who shares a love with the spoilt,

a t t e n t i o n - s e e k i n g Catherine. The games

they play and the feelings they have for one another are so

strong, they form a cloud of destruction which looms over two generations.

Supernatural, beautifully written and raw its the finest Bront work and one that will

appeal to both sexes.

Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen Another of the same era, but this one is a

clean and tidy tale of high-society romance and a love thats warped by arrogant looks

and crossed-wires. Austens work is a timeless and beautiful story that gives

hope to single ladies everywhere - however, theyll have to use their

imaginations when it comes to Mr Darcy strolling out of the lake in a wet shirt...

A Walk to Remember by Nicholas

Sparks There isnt a romance

section in the country without one of Nicholas

Sparks novels on display. This story tells

the tale of Landon

Carter, the cool kid who ends up roped into

playing the lead in his school play opposite

g o o d y - t w o - s h o e s , Jamie Sullivan. Despite

the bullies taunts, the unlikely pairing fall in love and Landon

learns some vital lessons in life.

The Thorn Birds by Colleen McCullough This epic shows what happens when a

handsome clergyman who is destined for

the Vatican falls in love with a young

girl. This book is now regarded as a classic

due to its powerful portrayal of love

d e n i e d a n d

McCulloughs brilliant

descriptive writing of Australia.

A p h r o d i t e s

W o r k s h o p b y Marika Cobbold NEW RELEASE D u e o u t o n

Valentines Day, this is not so much a soppy classic, but rather, a look at love in

an age of cynicism and too many

options. The plot revolves around

Rebecca Finch, a bestselling romantic

novelist who finds herself disillusioned

by the r-word. Meanwhile, up on

Mount Olympus, Aphrodite is in

turmoil: divorce rates are soaring and

nobody takes her seriously any more. Even Cupid isnt

bothering to look at who hes hitting with his arrows. A clever, sharp story which,

unfortunately, were all able to relate to.

Random Acts of Heroic Love by Danny Scheinmann If youre after something with a bit more woe than woo, this book entwines two

stories of love and loss, with one taking

place in the modern day and another in revolutionary Russia. Beautifully written,

both tales are told with a focus on the male lover in the romance, which makes a

change!

Feature Book review - Top Romances by Vicotria Poolman

Mothers Day Package

Available during March

Aromatic Facial

including

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Valentines Package

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Eyebrow shape

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File & Paint on Toes

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Special price of 60

Treat the ladies you love!!!

ursula@thatchamconnections.co.uk 0118 9886070 www.thatchamconnections.co.uk 35

St Valentines Day, 14th February, has become one of the most commercialised dates in the calendar. We all know it is designed for people to declare their love for one another and usually involves sending of cards, flowers, chocolates or other gifts.

But its origins are shrouded in

mystery. The day itself is named after at least three martyrs called Valentine, yet no romantic elements are associated with any of them, however hard anyone tries to rewrite history to fit our modern beliefs. The first suggestion of this day becoming affiliated with lovers is a mention in Geoffrey Chaucers poem Parlement of Foules, a poem written in 1382 to celebrate the loving marriage between King Richard II and Anne of Bohemia. Even so, it is unlikely that the Valentines Day Chaucer referred to in his poem was even in February.

More likely is the suggestion that

a festival celebrating love was a much older event, dating from Roman times. In those days, February was a month dedicated to rather rowdy festivals honouring various gods and goddesses, many of whom signified love and fertility.

Regardless of the historical

origins of Valentines Day, the date has long been the subject of n u m e r o u s t r a d i t i o n s a n d s upers t i t i ons pert ain in g t o discovering whom you are likely to

marry. It is said that the first bird a girl sees on Valentines Day will predict her future husbands personality. For example, if she sees a sparrow, she will marry a poor man but will be very happy, an owl would mean she wouldnt marry at all, a goldfinch would foretell marriage to a rich man while a flock of doves symbolise a happy, peaceful marriage.

In Wales, wooden spoons were

lovingly hand-carved and presented as gifts on February 14th, a tradition that is still marketed. The symbols on the spoons are generally hearts, keys and keyholes signifying you have the key to my heart. The beautiful Celtic love knot is also a popular design as this unbroken and continuous knot symbolises a love with the same attributes.

Somewhat more modern is the

idea that the first male name you hear on the radio or TV will be the same name as the man you will marry.

Among these superstitions there is one in particular that is accurate and charming: to be woken up with a kiss on Valentines morning is considered lucky. This makes a lot of sense as, if this happens to you, you are most definitely lucky to be with a partner that loves you.

H o w e v e r c o m m e r c i a l i s e d

Valentines Day has become, the underlying sentiment remains the same: expressing your love for someone in whichever way suits you best. But if you do send Valentines cards, it is still considered unlucky to sign them!

Feature St Valentines Day

ursula@thatchamconnections.co.uk 0118 9886070 www.thatchamconnections.co.uk 37

LLLOCALOCALOCAL RRRESIDENTIALESIDENTIALESIDENTIAL CCCLEANINGLEANINGLEANING SSSERVICESERVICESERVICES

Hate Housework? We Love It!

Local Resident, Phil Ryder, has recently taken on a

myhome franchise covering the Thatcham area.

Phil recognises that time is precious and that everyone needs to spend valuable time at home - sometimes, without having to do the cleaning! Phil heads up a team of highly-

trained, fully insured, cleaning professionals who have undergone a strict vetting process, including police checks.

myhomes cleaning service is tailored to meet the individual needs of each client, so

before Phil can prepare a personalised quota-tion, he will visit the client at their property to assess their requirements and discuss any special requests.

Phil explains Most customers opt for a fort-nightly clean as the service is so thorough. But our service is flexible and our one-off cleaning services are also great for people in

a variety of situations - moving into a new home, vacating rental accommodation and undergoing the dreaded inventory check - or in emergency situations such as after parties, before family

are due, or after the builders have been in.

01635 873911

www.myhomeplc.com

newbury.clean@myhome.com

As Spring is nearly here, why not make

a head start and let us make Your Home Sparkle!

Win a cleaning voucher for 75! See page Win a cleaning voucher for 75! See page Win a cleaning voucher for 75! See page 444 for details.for details.for details.

Free Security Advice & Estimates

01635 868 318 101A Park Lane, Thatcham Berkshire

To ALL Types of Doors

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Window Maintenance Specialists

All makes of Locks

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Free Collection/DeliveryFree Courtesy Car on all servicing and repairs. Subject to availability

AIR CONDITIONING SPECIALISTS....RECOVERY SERVICE

BIG VALUE FIXED PRICE SERVICE WITH FREE MOT Price includes service parts, labour &

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SSSMARTMARTMART BBBLINDSLINDSLINDS & S& S& SHUTTERSHUTTERSHUTTERS

ACCOUNTANCY AND TAX SERVICES FOR

SMALL BUSINESSES AND THE SELF-EMPLOYED

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ursula@thatchamconnections.co.uk 0118 9886070 www.thatchamconnections.co.uk 39

Promises, promises

The time of New Years resolutions has come and

gone and so I am going to talk about diets. A diet is

a way to lose a few pounds, right? Or is it a pro-

gramme of self-enforced deprivation prompted by

feelings of dissatisfaction and guilt usually leading to

failure, disappointment and more guilt thus creating

a vicious circle leading to dashed hopes and battered

self-esteem? In some cases, yes. The diet industry

is massive and grows fatter on the perpetuation of

feelings of personal inadequacy.

I cant afford the legal fees if I get sued for slandering the diet industry so Ill move

swiftly on to counselling. I dont promise to make you thinner or more attractive or

more successful or younger-looking or to fill you with vitality or to make your skin glow.

If you want someone who makes you these sorts of promises youll have to look else-

where. Youll find there is no shortage of promises waiting to be made.

But maybe you are you sick of these promises? Perhaps you have invested time, en-

ergy, money or even love in promises or those who offered them. A chocolate truffle

looks very attractive to someone on the lettuce and bean sprout diet. Perhaps you

have a suspicion that there is a way of living that does not rely on a constant, unre-

lenting quest for an idealised perfection the kind of deceitful perfection that taunts

you that youll never be good enough.

Every person has his or her own promise and by this I mean that you have your own

potential and do not need to be someone elses idea of what is good or desirable.

Counselling seeks to realise more of this promise in the here and now. Find your own

and live it!

Every person has his or her own promise and by this I mean that you have your own

potential and do not need to be someone elses idea of what is good or desirable.

Counselling seeks to realise more of this promise in the here and now. Find your own

and live it!

Bruce Bamber can be contacted on 07769 783424 Please see page 26

Feature Our Counsellor - Bruce Bamber

Seona Myerscough is a family lawyer and

in this article she examines the options

available for those experiencing a break-down in family relationships.

Sadly for some, a relationship breakdown

can lead to bitter disputes, irreconcilable differences and breakdowns of communi-

cation that the way forward must be de-cided by a judge. Some would argue that

the divorce process itself is responsible for creating such discontent, and couples

who begin with a mutual and amicable decision to split, will emerge bitter ene-

mies by the time a settlement is reached.

However, not all relationship breakdowns have to involve lengthy court battles.

These days there are other options that are far less stressful, much more digni-

fied and which allow you and your part-ner far greater control over the eventual

outcome.

One such option is Mediation. Remaining impartial throughout, a mediator can

help you and your partner to work things

out together by identifying the issues of conflict. They will then help you both to

resolve them. Once you have a proposal

you both find acceptable, a lawyer will

convert it into a legally binding document and carry out any necessary

implementation.

Collaborative Law is another option. This a relatively new way of dealing with fam-

ily disputes, whereby each person ap-points their own lawyer, and negotiations

are conducted at four way meetings. The aim is to resolve family disputes without

going to court. Each of you will have

your lawyer by your side throughout the

entire process, so you will benefit from legal advice as you go. One of the bene-

fits of the process is that it is not driven by a timetable imposed by the court. As

such, the process can be built around your familys individual timetable and

priorities.

At Gardner Leader, we have a team which has a vast experience in Family

Law. When you phone to make an ap-pointment you will be put in touch with

the person who can best meet your needs. You can ask to talk to the person

before you make the appointment if you think that will help. You can find out more

about each team member on our website. All options, including mediation and col-

laborative law will be explained at your initial meeting, which we call a fixed fee

interview. The cost of the fixed fee interview is 120 inc VAT and provides a

full hour of advice leaving you knowing exactly where you stand. We offer legal

aid, which is means tested. If you think you might be eligible then please ask

when you make the appointment.

Further details:

Seona Myerscough, Gardner Leader LLP Tel: 01635 508080 (for both Newbury and Thatcham offices) E-mail: s.myerscough@gardner-leader.co.uk

Gardner Leader Divorce options where no-one loses

ursula@thatchamconnections.co.uk 0118 9886070 www.thatchamconnections.co.uk 41

THATCHAM SURGERY

10 London Road,

Thatcham

Berkshire

RG18 4LG

Tel: 01635 868382

TADLEY SURGERY

Old Kiln House,

Silchester Road

Tadley, Hampshire

RG26 3PX

Tel: 0118 981 5500

24 Hour Emergency Service

Clinical expertise

Full facilities including hospitalisation

Friendly and helpful staff

NEWBURY

Donnington Grove Surgery, Oxford Road

01635 47170 (Small Animals, Farm and 24 Hour)

01635 39039 (Equine)

Berkshire AquaticsBerkshire Aquatics

Wide range of Koi and pond fish

Equipment

Pond Design & Build

Paramount Pools LtdParamount Pools LtdParamount Pools Ltd

01635 201854

01635 201623

Newbury Garden BuildingsNewbury Garden Buildings

01635 2000 00

01635 202232

See p 47

01635 202300

The Energy Warehouse LtdThe Energy Warehouse LtdThe Energy Warehouse Ltd

Renewable Energy Showroom & Consultancy

01635 203344

ursula@thatchamconnections.co.uk 0118 9886070 www.thatchamconnections.co.uk 43

Weather permitting, now is the time for

you to venture outside to do some real gardening after the winter downtime. Use

February to finish off any winter work and prepare as much as possible for the rest of

the gardening year by pruning, digging and tidying.

First signs of spring will be making their

appearance with bulbs waking up and peeking through the soil, buds starting to

form on trees and shrubs and catkins waving in the breeze.

Beware, however, of frosts and snow. February is still very much winter in most

parts of the country, so dont plant out

anything new just yet. Instead, prepare as

much as possible for the coming growing season.

Finish off any winter digging to allow the

weather and probable frosts to help break down large clods of soil. If possible, avoid

walking on the lawn as the sodden ground

will quickly compact turning it into a kind

of concrete and you will ruin the grass for the rest of the year. Why make extra work

for yourself?

If you intend to create a new flower bed, now is the ideal time to prepare the

ground. Mark out the shape of the new bed using string, a hosepipe or a trail of

sand as its very easy to get carried away with your digging so you end up with a

much larger bed than you intended. If your new bed is located in existing lawn,

resist the temptation to just turn over the turf. Grass grows best where you dont

want it, and youll end up with a grassy flower bed for years to come. Remove the

turf and either reuse it elsewhere, or compost it. Dig over the soil as deeply as

you can, incorporating plenty of well-rotted manure as you go.

Snowdrops will be coming to the end of their flowering period so to get even more

Getting Ready for Spring...

Feature Gardening Pages

ursula@thatchamconnections.co.uk 0118 9886070 www.thatchamconnections.co.uk 45

of these gorgeous blooms divide the plants

after the flowers have faded but while the leaves are still green. This is known as in

the green and snowdrops will only propagate if you transplant them like this.

You may have bought many snowdrop bulbs in the past, yet have none of these

beautiful flowers to show for your money. This is because snowdrops really only grow

well when planted in the green.

Trim any excess old foliage on hellebores.

These low-growing plants are susceptible to a leaf disease called hellebore leaf spot, so

keep them tidy which helps encourage healthy plants.

Cut back ornamental grasses to about

12cm above the crown. Theyll grow quickly

and be even healthier than before. Pruning

stimulates vigorous new growth and many plants require this to flourish. Dogwood is

another that will benefit from a good cut-back. Now that youve had the pleasure of

the stunning colour they provide through the winter, prune the stems down to

ground level ready to shoot again. The

brightest colours next winter will come from

the new growth.

Summer and autumn flowering clematis

should also be pruned back hard. The speed of growth during spring is incredible

and will mean you will have a spectacular floral display later in the year. Winter-

flowering jasmine should also be cut back once the flowers have faded. Other plants

to prune now are ornamental vines such as

Virginia creeper and ivy. Its a good idea to

feed any plants that have been pruned as they will use a lot of energy producing new

growth.

Towards the end of the month, you can start feeding your entire garden with an all-

purpose fertiliser to boost the spring growth

spurt. Mulching is something that should

really wait until the soil is a little warmer so Ill talk about that in detail next month.

2008 Rose Henfrey

Office 01635 866546

Ian Douglas 07725 819 652

Mark Lissenden 07742 078 026

gardenthymeservices@hotmail.co.uk

Garden Thyme Garden Maintenance and Landscape Services

Garden Thyme is run by Ian Douglas and Mark Lissenden.

Ian and Mark have over 30 years of combined experience and knowledge in the gardening sector, maintaining and developing private and commercial gardens to a high standard. They have won 2 National BALI awards. They pride themselves in offering a reliable and professional service.

Their services include: patio laying, pressure washing and lawn treatments (with selective weed killers), garden clearances, hedge cutting, tree pruning, fencing, winter digging, vegetable planting and af-tercare. They offer one-offs, weekly, fortnightly or monthly visits. No job is either too small or too big.

Please ring for a very competitive quote.

The photographs below show their work :

ursula@thatchamconnections.co.uk 0118 9886070 www.thatchamconnections.co.uk 47

Tracey Mobile Hairdressing

07770 823283

I offer quality, personal, affordable hair-dressing in the comfort of your own home at a time to suit you.

Based on Dunstan Park, I can travel to you in Thatcham and the surrounding villages.

Please call if you would like to make an appointment.

Tel: 07770 823283

Email: Tracey.blick@tiscali.co.uk

Discounts available for double and group adult bookings.

01635 202232 Hillier Garden Centre

Priors Court Road - Hermitage

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For all domestic electrical work

Property Maintenance

Part P Registered Electrician

Emergency call out

Free Estimates

01635 860126

07786 846 367

info@abc-electrical-property.co.uk

Thatcham Connections Card Game Word search for

February and March 2009

NEED ANNEED ANNEED AN

AMUSINGAMUSINGAMUSING

SPEAKER ?SPEAKER ?SPEAKER ?

Versatile London Tourist BoardVersatile London Tourist BoardVersatile London Tourist Board Registered Blue Badge Guide givesRegistered Blue Badge Guide givesRegistered Blue Badge Guide gives entertaining Talks to gatherings, be entertaining Talks to gatherings, be entertaining Talks to gatherings, be they Art Societies, AGMs or Lunch-they Art Societies, AGMs or Lunch-they Art Societies, AGMs or Lunch-eons. Varied subjects range from eons. Varied subjects range from eons. Varied subjects range from w o r k i n g f o r J o h n B e t j e m aw o r k i n g f o r J o h n B e t j e m aw o r k i n g f o r J o h n B e t j e m a nnn t ot ot o Hysterical History eg why Hysterical History eg why Hysterical History eg why Charles 11 Charles 11 Charles 11 keeps popping out of his keeps popping out of his keeps popping out of his

coffincoffincoffin!!!???

photo

For more informationFor more informationFor more information please contactplease contactplease contact

SUSAN HOWE: SUSAN HOWE: SUSAN HOWE: Tel: 07761 102923Tel: 07761 102923Tel: 07761 102923

Email: edwinaEmail: edwinaEmail: edwina___ukukuk___99@yahoo.com99@yahoo.com99@yahoo.com

ursula@thatchamconnections.co.uk 0118 9886070 www.thatchamconnections.co.uk 49

A local charity

for local people

providing support, care

and information

The Trust offers support to cancer

patients residing in West Berkshire.

We provide an equipment loan ser-

vice, small financial grants, volun-

teer drivers who escort patients to

hospital for treatment and we also

fund the following services:

Aromatherapy, Physiotherapy,

Hydrotherapy, Overnight Nursing

Care, Bereavement Counselling and

the 14:21 Time to Talk Youth Coun-

selling Service.

For more information

please contact :

01635 31542

Feature Thatcham Connections Challenge Page

Woolhampton

WELCOME TO THE AREA

Meet and Greet Day

At the village hall

March 7th 2009

12:30 - 15:00

Representatives from the School,

Churches and various groups who

use the Village Hall extend a warm

welcome to all visitors and in

particular to all NEWCOMERS! Photographs, old and new, courtesy of Jenny Campbell and Sarah Ward Thank you also to Terry and Cathy Vallis for the information.

Useful local phone numbers: Emergency

Thames Valley Police 0845 8505 505 British Gas Emergency 080 111 999 Thames Water Emergency 0845 9200 888

Southern Electric Emergency 0845 770 8090

Travel Rail Enquiries 08457 484950 Newbury Buses 01635 567500

Council West Berks District Council 01635 42 00 Thatcham Town Council 01635 863592

Police Station 0845 8505505 West Berks Street Care 01635 519080

Post Office Broadway, Thatcham 01635 8623223 Woolhampton 0118 9713729

RSPCA 08705 555999

DVLA Swansea 0172 782341 Victim Support 0845 30 30 900

Health Thatcham Medical Practice 01635 867171 Doctors appointments 01635 871117 Appointment cancellations 01635 295445

All other appointments/calls 01635 295445 Burdwood Surgery 01635 868006 Newbury Hospital 01635 273300

Vet OGormon Slater & Main 01635 868382 GKG Veterinary Surgeons 01635 868047

Library 01635 866049 Mon: 9.30-5.00

Tues 9.30-7.00 Wed - not open

Thurs 9.30 - 5.00

Fri 9.30 - 7.00 Sat 9.30 - 12.30

West Call

IF YOU NEED

A DOCTOR

OUT OF HOURS

PHONE

0118 9787811

Some of the Thatcham Team

Thatchams

COMMUNITY RESPONDERS 0800 587 02070800 587 02070800 587 0207

We are waiting to hear from you!

www.southerncentralambulance.co.uk

Feature Community pages

A group for Lone Parent Families meets monthly on the 1st Sunday of the month between 2-4 at Thatcham Childrens Centre

Lower Way, Thatcham

Gingerbread Mel Wilder 01635 826650

Photographed by Maria

Dobson, this is a Lanner Falcon, named Hughie.

He belongs to Ray Prior, who gave a display of

Birds of Prey on 21 Feb 08 at the Thatcham Discovery

Centre.

Photographed by

Norman Jones, this photo shows

Madam Mayor, Jenny Weaving, with

one of the reindeer before Christmas

when she visited Newbury Christmas

Tree Farm.

See www.norriesite.com for many more interesting local photographs.

The project works to support adults with

learning disabilities to build on Work/Social skills and Education with an aim to

possible future employment in their own communities.

Volunteers are needed for exciting pro-

jects at Link-Up. The project works to support adults with learning disabilities

to build on Work/Social skills and Educa-tion with an aim to possible future em-

ployment in their own communities. We need volunteers to help in our sheltered

work skills unit at The Slater Centre,

New Greenham Park.

There would be opportunities, after train-ing, to join our Job Coaching team sup-

porting some of our service users 1:1 in the local community at work placements

encouraging employment and independ-ence.

We are also keen to recruit volunteers to

help with our exciting and varied on-going therapeutic gardening project

Growing4all at Cottismore. CRB check. We can offer you:An opportunity to work

on these unique projects. Gain work experience in this field.

Relevant training.

Great references for future employment/university etc.

Contact:Helen Anderson (01635) 500852 Jobcoach@link-up-project.org.uk

Volunteers needed! Make a difference!

Not many people can say they started their

career playing Judi Denchs son, went on to be a Munchkin for the Royal Shakespeare Company, and travelled the globe as an Irish dancer all before the age of 21. Jamie Read has a voice which is just as at home singing jazz standards in a cabaret as it is singing big tenor roles at the Theatre Royal. Now Director of Theatre at Read Dance & Theatre Company, Jamie is delighted to be returning to the stage for one night only to help raise money for the Thatcham Mayors charity.

Saturday 28th March, 2009 at 7.30 pm St Marys Parish Church, Thatcham

Tickets (5) available from The Family Bookshop,

The Broadway Tel: 01635 871777

in aid of Home-Start, West Berkshire Thatcham Town Mayors Charity 2008/2009

Forthcoming Concerts .

An evening with West End Vocalist

Jamie Read

on Saturday 28th March

Jazz and the Musicals

and...

Cr Meibion Morlais Traditional Welsh Male Choir performing in aid of MacMillan Cancer Support on Saturday 25 April 7pm at Arlington Arts Centre.

A 40 strong choir from the Rhondda Valley performing songs of all kinds, from all cultures. Made up from all age groups and featuring choristers from all walks of life, Cr Meibion Morlais uphold everything about the rich history of choral Music in Wales - from its very ethos to its incredible reputation. Tickets 10 - on sale now 01635 244246 www.arlingtonarts.co.uk

on Morlais Traditional

Baby Massage Just the 2 of us 2 Baby Products Bambambaby 2 Bathroom Installations Corsair 26

Blinds Smart Blinds 38

Boarding Kennels Foxhold 18

Book Reviews 33 Building Society Newbury Building Society 10 Burial Ground Acorn Ridge 17 Car Maintenance Halfway Garage 38

Charity The Newbury & District Cancer Care Trust 49

Childrens Challenge 50 Chimney Sweep Wilkins 2

Cleaning My Home 37 Community Pages 52/53 Computers GIGTEK Ltd 24 Sarah Sladen 25 Thatcham PC Doctors 2

Concrete 24-7 Concrete 23 Counselling/Coach Bruce Bamber 26/39

Craft Shop Kreate & Make 21

Curtain & Soft Furnishings Indigo Designs 2 Dancing & Drama Schools One Step Ahead 2 Read Dance 14 Stagecoach 14 Tiny Theatre School 11

Decorator Lady Painter 10 LMC Decorator 24 Tony Fegan 6 Dog Grooming Services Helens Hairy Hounds 2 Electrical & Property ABC Electrical 47 Thatcham & Newbury 18 Maintenance Services

Electrician Mace Solutions 17

Financial - IFA Simon Claxton 19/25

Flooring Oaktree Floors 23 Stone Partnership 22 Florist Buttercups & Daisies 47 Funeral Directors Geoffrey Church & Co 10 Garden Centre Hilliers Garden Centre 42 Gardening Feature 44/45

Gardening Services Garden Thyme 46 Green Thumb 43 Newbury Garden Buildings 41 NPT Paving Specialists 43 Tree Surgeon 47 Golf Club Sandford Springs 55 Golf Club Open Day Bradfield College 9 Handyman Peter Kirkham 27

Hair & Beauty Bernies 33 Kaven 35 Tracey Mobile Hairdressing 47

Health & Fitness Club Bradfield College 3 Health Therapist Theresa Wright 8/31

Home Cinema Vivid Research 21

Homes for Overseas Students OISE 15 Locksmith Cap Security 38

Marketing Consultant Marketing Genie 29 Music & Dance for Children Monkey Music Stagecoach 12 Nursery School Jubilee Day Nursery 13/14

Organic Foods Pang Valley Organics 30

Paving Specialists NPT Building Services 43

Personalised Gifts Nordikota.com 24

Photographer Henwood-Fox Photography 49

Piano Ben Wheeler 48 Picture Framer Inner Piece 49 Plasterer B&M Property Solutions 6 Plumber Anthony Bosley 16 Thatcham & Newbury Maintenance Services 18

Printer Thames Print Room 3 Restaurants The Coach and Horses 18 The Lamb 7 The Six Bells 31

Sculpture Casting a Memory 5

Snowdrop Park Welford Park 45

Solicitor CLM Law 36 Gardner Leader 40/56 Speaker Susan Howe 48 St. Valentines Day 35

Swimming School s GR Swimming School 12 Nightingales Swim School 10 Tax Advice Tax Assist 38 TWD 18

Telephone Extensions Webb Telecom 2

Tiling Cedar Ceramics 6 Vet OGorman Slater Main 41

Water Softener JM Softeners 23 Woolhampton Meet & Greet day 51 Wordsearch 48

Index

ursula@thatchamconnections.co.uk 0118 9886070 www.thatchamconnections.co.uk 55

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