Thatcham Connections - Issue 49

Issue 49: February - March 2015

Local Services forYou

PossibleHobbies

Feed theFlame

Why you mayneed aWebsite

www.thatchamconnections.co.uk

Please mention Thatcham Connections when responding to advertisements2

“So Much More Than A Furniture Store”

Pine & OakFurniture Ltd

Solid Wood & Painted FurniturePlus Great Gifts & Accessories

ONE OF THE SOUTH’SLARGEST FURNITURE STORES

MIDGHAMKennet Holme Farm Buildings

Bath RoadRG7 5UX

Tel: 01189 712666

NEWBURYPelican LaneNewburyRG14 1NX

Tel: 01635 33000

WINNERSHWinnersh Garden Centre

WinnershRG41 5HE

Tel: 01189 797355

WINCHESTERUnit 3, Easton Lane

WinnallSO23 7RU

Tel: 01962 865775

IN STOCKTAKE TODAY.FREE LOCALDELIVERY** Terms & Conditions Apply

New RangesAdded Regularly

www.pine-oak.co.uk

[email protected] 0118 9886070 www.thatchamconnections.co.uk 3

‘Our aim is totry and connectlocal businessesto local people.’

Distribution

Thatcham Connections

Is a local independent magazine.We aim to think Local, BuyLocal and live Local.

It is delivered free to 8,500homes and businesses inAshmore Green, Upper Bucklebury,Cold Ash, Curridge, Hermitage,Midgham,Thatcham,Woolhampton and Yattendon.

HowWeWork

We understand that the needs of asmall business are quite differentfrom those of a big company, andour advertising service is verymuch targeted at independentand local businesses. Fromadvert design to general advicewe are here to help you grow.

Technical & Legal Matters

Whilst every care has been taken toensure that the data in this magazineis accurate, the Publisher cannotaccept, and hereby disclaims,any liability to any party for lossor damage caused by errors oromissions resulting from negligence,accident or any other cause.

No part of this magazine may bereproduced, sorted in any retrievalsystem, or transmitted in any form- electronic, mechanical, recording,photocopying, or otherwise - withoutprior permission of the Publisher.

All in-house artwork and editorialpresented in this magazine remainsthe copyright of Ursula Aitken.

Contact Details

Ursula AitkenPublisher and Editor

Tel: 0118 [email protected]

www.thatcamconnections.co.uk

Welcome!

Dear Readers

I do hope you are all well andhave recovered now from allthe various Christmas festivitieswhich came your way.

Firstly, I was so delighted to hear thatAngela Money, a regular NeighbourhoodWatch contributor, was awarded theBritish Empire Medal in the Queen’sNewYear Honours for her voluntaryservices dealing with NeighbourhoodWatch and the NeighbourhoodAction Group - and for helping thePolice and Community Safety.Many congratulations to Angela.

I think you will like the front cover. Iam writing this in mid-Jan on a typicaldreary winter’s day - and we haverain and more rain - though no snowas yet. I thought the eyes of thesheep say it all!When you receivethis, the evenings will definitely belighter - thank goodness - and we canproperly smile again. And … as we arenot so far away fromValentine’s Day,I do hope that we can all celebrateit in some form or another. Perhapseven a hug for/from, a mother, father,brother, sister, lover, partner, husband,wife, friend or child? (I know for sureI could not have coped lately withrecovery without so many of these!)

I would like to thank all those readerswho very kindly supported theSamaritan’s Christmas Purse Shoe-boxAppeal. Under-privileged childrenin many parts ofAfrica will have hadthe joy and happiness of openingyour boxes.You were super generoustoo. I peaked in on them and wasamazed and delighted to find sucha great response.Thank you again.

Lastly, I do hope you will enjoy this issue- there are several local activities which Iam hoping will particularly interest you.

Footcare 15

CodeWord 16

Quiz 20

Recipe 24

Book Review 26

CyclingRevolution 28

HousingCrisis! 29

Crossword 31

Hobbiestointerestyou 32/33

PreparingforWarmerWeather 38

WinterSun 39

FeedtheFlame 40

Valentine’sDay 41

Wordsearch 42

ThatchamPhilatelicSociety 44

WhyyoumayneedaWebsite 45

IfyouareGymPhobic 46

HomesandInteriors 50

What’sonintheCommunity 52

Childrens’Challenge 55

Answers 56

HandyNumbers 60

Index 62

NEXT ISSUE - COVERINGApril and May 2015Copy - ready for print - deadline: Friday 6th March 2015 at the very latest.

Ursula Aitken


We are fully insured and full references areavailable upon request. So if you are looking tohave a replacement floor or just require somefree professional advice, please do not hesitateto contact us.

Our customershavesaid the following:“Thank you to Laws Floors for supplying and fittingcarpets in 2 of our houses. The price and qualityof your work has been excellent – I couldn’t faultanything, Thank you also for completing the workwithin the time schedule.” - Victoria

“Thanks for all your hard efforts this week, we feelthat the flat is fast becoming a home now.”- Stuart and Caroline

Pleaseseemore testimonials onourwebsite.

Below are the services we can provide:Free estimating serviceFitting serviceAdaption of old carpetsSupply of underlay, grippersand door barsSupply of amassive rangeof carpetsSupply of vinyls, laminatesand solidwoodSupply of KarndeanCarpet deliveryDoor Easing

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We are suppliersand fitters of

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WE ALSO OFFER CARPET CLEANING


Oak framed buildingsDESIGNED • MANAGED • CONSTRUCTED

Email: [email protected] Tel: 0118 930 6633www.thebarnpartnership.co .uk

Brooks Farm Bath Road Beenham Reading RG7 5JB


P.D.DP.D.DP.D.DP.D.DP.D.DP.D.DP.D.DP.D.DP.D.DP.D.DP.D.DP.D.DP.D.DP.D.DP.D.DP.D.DP.D.DP.D.DP.D.DP.D.DP.D.DP.D.DP.D.DP.D.DP.D.DP.D.DP.D.DP.D.DP.D.DP.D.DP.D.DP.D.DP.D.DP.D.DP.D.DP.D.DP.D.DP.D.DP.D.DP.D.DP.D.DP.D.DP.D.DP.D.DP.D.DP.D.DP.D.DP.D.DP.D.DP.D.DP.D.DP.D.DP.D.DP.D.DP.D.DP.D.DP.D.DP.D.DP.D.DP.D.DP.D.DP.D.DP.D.DP.D.DP.D.DP.D.DP.D.DP.D.DP.D.DP.D.DP.D.DP.D.D ServicesServicesServicesServicesServicesServicesServicesServicesServicesServicesServicesServicesServicesServicesServicesServicesServicesServicesServicesServicesServicesServicesServicesServicesServicesServicesServicesServicesServicesServicesServicesServicesServicesServicesServicesServicesServicesServicesServicesServicesServicesServicesServicesServicesServicesServicesServicesServicesServicesServicesServicesServicesServicesServicesServicesServicesServicesWindow Cleaningn Interior & ExteriorWindowCleaningn PureWater Pole System orTraditionalMethod

n Commercial & Domesticn uPVC fascia, soffit & cladding cleaningn Conservatory roof cleaningn Gutter Clearing & Repairsn Fully insured

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SeasonedLLLOGSOGSOGS

cut and splitto your

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For all your soft furnishing andsewing needs

Curtains, blinds, pelmets andalterations. Fabric choices andadvice available

Contact:

JudyConnolly07747 634556

www.indigodesign.co.uk

We have many cats seeking loving homesespecially older cats

fundraising volunteers always neededFor further information contact

01635 200111Open daily, except for Tuesdays,

11am-3pm by appointmentwww.newbury.cats.org.uk

ProtectionNewbury Cats P.C. DECORATING

Paul CoulsonTel: 07771 610230 or 01635 201835

• Local Painter and Decorator with8 years Experience

• All types of decorating undertakenincluding plastering & wallpapering

• Call now to arrange a FREENo Obligation Quotation

• No job Too Small

ROGERROGERROGERFISFISFISHERHERHERCarpenter/JoinerKitchen Fitter/Glaze Tiling

House MaintenancePainting/Decorating

30 Years ExperienceTel: 01635 201047mob: 07876 588721


It was back in 1981/82 whenthe government put in place thecurrent annual lifetime gifting limitof £3,000, with any yearly gifts inexcess of this potentially facingtax consequences on death.

It is now over 30 years later and, it is worth statingagain: that the annual allowance is still the same.

Simply stated, anyone that gifts over theiravailable allowance (which can double to £6,000if unused from the previous year) and dies withinseven years will see the part of the gift whichwas over their allowance added to their estateon death. If this takes the estate over £325,000then 40% inheritance tax will be due on thesurplus (unless any exemptions and reliefsapply). The £325,000 is the allowance on death,commonly known as the ‘nil rate band’ and hasnot increased in value for nearly six years.

The seven year rule and the non-movement ofthe nil rate band are facts that many people arefamiliar with; but while people are aware of the

£3,000 lifetime allowance, few realise that this

allowance has been frozen for over 30 years.

For perspective, take the cost of an average

home in 1982, which was £24,000 (Office of

National Statistics figures). £3,000 could have

gone a long way towards a deposit on a first

home. However, in today’s market, where the

average house price is £271,000 (again, ONS

figures), £3,000 does not even cover stamp duty.

There is, of course, nothing stopping people

from gifting more than £3,000. But very often

people operate within their tax allowance.

The £3,000 is a line in the sand they don’t

want to cross and so even if they can, and

would like to gift more, they don’t.

To compound this problem, the beneficiary of

the intended gift is frequently in greater need

of it than the giver and thus the freezing of

the allowance has a negative impact on the

economy. Money that would be put into the

economy may end up staying out of it; which

affects everyone, including the government.

While the annual allowance has not moved

since 1982, the nil rate band – while lagging

some distance behind house prices – has

increased six-fold from £55,000 to £325,000.

Perhaps as the political parties draft their

manifestos ahead of the general election,

they might stop to consider whether

a meaningful increase in the £3,000

allowance is now long overdue.

By Mark Hopper, solicitor who joined the

Inheritance Protection team at Gardner

Leader solicitors, following the merger

with Heath Buckeridge in Maidenhead.

For further details and advice pleasecontact Gardner Leader on 01635508080 or visit gardner-leader.co.uk

Gardner LeaderThe Inheritance Tax Threshold that no-one talks about


Air Conditioning

Free Security Advice & Estimates01635 868 318

101A Park Lane, Thatcham Berkshire

To ALL Types of DoorsWindows and Garages

UPVc Door andWindow Maintenance

Specialists

All makes of LocksOpened/Fitted/Replaced/Repaired

CAP SECURITYLOCAL

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Dignity Funerals Ltd. A company registered in England


Are you wondering just howeffective Counselling, Psychotherapyor Coaching could be for you?Working with you in a safe, professional,confidential and non-judgmental environment.

Call me on 07775 706907or visit my website for more information:

www.margaretspencercounselling.co.uk

Working with individuals, couples andorganisations on a short term or openended approach.

� Counselling � Psychotherapy � Coaching

• Abuse• Addiction• Anger• Anxiety• Confidence & Self Esteem• Bereavement & Loss• Divorce, Separation & Redundancy• Relationships• Stress Management• Depression• Eating Disorders

Margaret Spencer BSc MBACP (Accred) MNLPKingfisher Court Hambridge Road Newbury RG14 5SJ

The Margaret Spencer Practice

Have moved to:Lower Way Farm, Thatcham RG19 3TLWe look forward to seeing our regular customers,and hope to meet some new ones at our new

larger premises at Lower Way.For all your private or corporate functions, large or small.

Please ring 01635 869689 or visit our website:www.buttercups-and-daisies.co.uk

Flowers forall Occasions


ExtensionSpecialist• Barn Conversions• Garage Conversions• Driveways and Patios• All Roofing and Guttering works• Brick, Stone & Flint work• Hard Landscaping• Drainage• Kitchens• Bathrooms• Plumbing• Electrical• Painting and Decorating

A.ThompsonBuildersA family run business specialising in a range ofboth external and interior building work.

www. a t h om p s o n b u i l d e r. c o . u k

Telephone 01635 861088Mobile 07909 902435Email [email protected]

Denbar, Briff Lane, Turners Green,Upper Bucklebury, RG7 6ST


PETERKIRKHAMYOUR LOCAL HANDYMAN

Specialising in:

Building andGarden ServicesI am reliable and honestReasonable costsReferences availableFully insuredI am also an Approved Contractorfor the Local Parish Council

Fencing Patios Deckwork Brickwork and Repointing Garden Maintenance

- from domestic one-offsto regular commercialcontracts

Decorating Tiling Carpentry - general building

and maintenancePlease visit my website to see more:

www.berkshirehandymanservices.co.uk

All major credit cards accepted

72 Loundes Close, Thatcham, Berkshire RG18 3EB

t: 01635 872285 m: 07849 078204


Ballroomlatin american

Sequence

dance Classes for all abilitiesHeld in Thatcham & Cold AshFor more details ring 01635 580930

www.1stepahead.info

With years ofexperience,

we specialisein small,

friendly groupclasses – for

couples.

Why notcome andvisit us?


Foot CareAs we approach spring, now is the timeto look at our feet to see if they mayneed special attention before we lookto wearing lighter footwear once more.

Dry heels or any areas of hard skinare the first uglies that should be dealtwith. With the trend of taking a showerrather than a bath – all the more so inthe summer – your feet don’t have achance to soak. Run a bowl of warmwater with some moisturising bath oil oreven a little olive oil. Leave your feet tosoak for at least five minutes, then usinga pumice stone or foot file rub awaythe hard areas. Using an exfoliatinggranular foot scrub will removesurface dry skin from the whole foot.

Toenails next. They should be cutstraight across with a strong pair ofnail clippers, then any rough edgestaken off with a good quality nail file.Don’t cut them too short though oryou risk exposing delicate skin.

Put some cuticleremover cream aroundthe base of the nail, thenusing an orangewoodstick gently push thecuticles back.

Hairy toes might havebeen fine for Bigfoot,but it’s not a good lookfor you, so use waxor cream to removeany hair on yourtoes. Then apply arich moisturizer allover your feet andleave it to soak in for aslong as possible.

Use a little nail varnish remover toclean your toenails before applyingtwo thin coats of nail varnish.

Finally, if you find that you havedifficulty even reaching your feet,let alone scrubbing and clipping, aprofessional pedicure is well worth themoney and will last several weeks.

ProPertiesin association with

0%commission

fixed fee ofonly £1,950

(no VAT) payable oncompletion

Do you want a first class service without hefty fees?l We offer you a high

level of service ata fraction of thecost of high streetEstate Agents.

For advice about selling your home or a free, no obligation marketappraisal call Raphael directly on 07739 864644 or 01635 222111e. [email protected]

Selling your home?Selling your home?

The fixed price structure

makes a huge amount of

sense, great value

for money.A great professional

service and wesaved over £5,000.

l We accompanypotential purchaserswhen viewing yourproperty and keepyou updated at everystage of your sale.

l Buzz Properties is runby Raphael Rodgerswho has worked withproperties since 1986and has a wealth ofexperience.

Selling your home?

no saleno fee


Each letter in this puzzle isrepresented by a numberbetween 1 and 26. Thecodes for three letters areshown. As you find theletters enter them in the boxbelow.

CODEWORD 1 5 19 10 1 20

19 8 19 11 14 14 2 10 8 5 7 18

15 24 10 15 12 9

6 24 17 10 22 17 14 8 26 25 7 18

12 17 4 2 17

24 26 12 14 4 7 18 1 17 2 5 16

13 23 10 14

8 22 5 7 16 19 14 1 9 7 1 5

17R

4 9 12 2

21 8 24 19 11 7 5 16 5 2 11 7

4O

14 2 25 24 7

6 2 4M

10 7 4 17 24 3 2 4 18

17 7 15 15 7 15

All Dogs Walked DailyAll Dogs Walked DailyAll Dogs Walked DailyProfessional Care andProfessional Care andProfessional Care andAttention at all timesAttention at all timesAttention at all times

Thornford RoadCrookham CommonNewbury RG19 8EL

Viewing welcome byappointment. For further

details please ring:

See page 58 for Answers


ComputerTroubleshooter• Internet and Email problems• Virus removal and clean up• Hardware/Software problems• Advice on updating• Broadband set up• Data recovery• Digital Photography• Jargon free lesson!

Whether you’re starting from scratch, justneeding a few pointers or your computer hasgot a mind of its own, I’m here to help.

Contact:Sarah Sladen 079793 [email protected]


Fiona CueFiona Cue PhotographyPhotography

07768 511 207fionacuephotography.co.uk


Quiet • Personal • Caring • Tailored

Your dog comes first!

Dapper Dogsgroom room

Ellie Walls

07798 667354Unit 3, Riverside Studio, Lower Way Farm, Lower Way,

Thatcham, Berkshire RG19 8JL

• All breeds catered for• Take home service• All aspects of grooming covered• Great location• Ample parking• Flexible appointments

CANINE HYDROTHERAPY

www.wavescaninehydrotherapy.co.uk01635865977 / 07766467360RG184BP email: [email protected]

Hydrotherapy is used in thetreatment ofmany orthopaedic,

osteoarthritis, neurologicalconditions and soft tissue injuries,aswell as improving fitness or -

teaching your dog to swim - for fun!


Mr and Mrs1. What colour are Mr. Blobby’s spots?2. On the TV showMrs. Brown’s boys, what is Mrs. Brown’s

first name?3. In the world of TV, which job has been held by Mr. Starling, Mr. Llewelyn, Mrs.

McClusky, Mr. Humphries, Mrs. Keele, Mr. McNab, Mr. Robson and Mrs.Bassinger?

4. Which movie character has a pet cat called Mr. Bigglesworth?5. The abbreviation Mrs. was originally a contraction of which longer word?6. On a children’s TV show first broadcast in 1965, what was operated by Mr.

Rusty?7. Which literary character was found at a London railway station by Mr. and Mrs.

Brown?8. In the Beatrix Potter novel The Tale of Mrs. Tiggy-Winkle, what type of animal

was the title character?9. What did Mrs. Cobbitt sell on the TV show Trumpton?

10. Which two dwarfs from SnowWhite And The Seven Dwarfs can become Mr.Men from Roger Hargreaves’ series of books by putting “Mr.” in front of theirnames?

We can be found on the A4, Just outside Thatcham, in the heart of the beautiful Berkshire countryside.

Extensive International Menu • Real Ales / Fine Wine

The Coach and HorsesBath Road, Midgham, Berkshire, RG7 5UX Tel: 01189 713384www.coachandhorsesmidgham.co.uk

Coach & HorsesGood food 6 days a week

The

EveningSpecial Menu

Main courses from £10.95Tuesday to Saturday eveningsWe are now taking bookings

for Valentine’s Dayand Mother's Day

Traditional Sunday RoastsLunch Specials £9.95Tuesday - Saturday

Closed Mondays(inc Bank Holidays)

Tuesday - Thursday:11.30am - 3pm

(kitchen 12pm - 2.15pm)5 - 11pm (kitchen 6pm - 9pm)

Friday – Saturday:11.30am - 3pm

(kitchen 12pm - 2.15pm)5pm - 12am (kitchen 6pm - 9.30pm)

Sunday:12.00 - 5pm (kitchen 12pm - 3pm)

Thatcham Connections Mr and Mrs Quiz



KarenTyler-Trillo

After a lifetime of loving, caring for and owning pets and witha farming background, Karen has turned her attention tothe welfare of animals in a professional capacity. Karen willvisit your pet and look after him/her with much loving care.

Readers whomention seeing this ad will begiven a 10%discount on their first booking.

Please have a look on our website for more information:

w w w. p e t a n g e l s u k . c o . u kTel: 01635 881 891 or 07876 785312

Whatever your pet may be, PetAngels UK are here to offer avariety of fully insured services.Not only is your life made easier- and you have peace of mind whenyou are out or away - but also thisensures no stress for your animal.

These services include:DogWalking,Pet Feeding, Pet/House sitting,Basic pet grooming in your home.Also: Pet Taxi and DogMidwifery.

In addition to the services alreadymentioned, Karen and her teamare also happy to water plants, pickup post and carry out basic housesecurity checks at your request.

One-to-one Clicker trainingfor your dog is also offeredwith an experienced trainer.

Pet Angels UK Services areexpanding all the time - to includePet Portraits and provide accessories.

Karen is alsoan accreditedmicrochipper


Specialists in plumbing and heating. Weare registered to install and

service all systems.

We offer many other maintenanceservices, including:

•Electrical•Carpentry• Installing bathrooms and kitchens

We always offer free quotes for ourservices and free call outs.Call us now on 01635 826770

or 07771 653289

THATCHAM & NEWBURYTHATCHAM & NEWBURYTHATCHAM & NEWBURYMAINTENANCE SERVICESMAINTENANCE SERVICESMAINTENANCE SERVICES

plumbing / heatingelectrical / carpentry

•Small Building

email: [email protected]

All your gutterproblems solved.Specialising in clearing, repairs andcomplete replacement of guttering.

• Upvc & Cast iron guttering and downpipes•Water butts supplied and fitted• Upvc fascias, soffits and cladding cleaning•Any type of conservatory roof cleaned• Fully Insured • Free Estimates

C.D.Gutter

Serviceswww.pddservices.co.uk

Telephone: 01635 866232Mobile: 07834 545905

KEY SAFE & FITTING£45.00 + VAT

SPYHOLE & FITTING£40.00 + VAT

DOOR CHAIN & FITTING£45.00 + VAT

ARMADILLO GARAGE LOCK FITTING

£120.00 + VAT

KEY SAFE & FITTING£45.00 + VAT

SPYHOLE & FITTING£40.00 + VAT

DOOR CHAIN & FITTING£45.00 + VAT

ARMADILLO GARAGE LOCK FITTING

£120.00 + VAT

24/7 Local Mobile Locksmith - who canGain Entry and replace all types of locks.

Keys Cut on SiteBS3621 Standard Locks Supplied

Mark Bassett07816 240733 – 24/7 / 01635 299680

website: www.locksmark.comEmail: [email protected]

24 7


Martin Newman is a mature50 plus tradesman withmany years experience in thebuilding and flooring trades.

He aims to providea reliable andprofessional propertymaintenance servicefor people of all ages.He covers Thatcham,Newbury andsurrounding areas.He offers a ‘pay as yougo’ service based on veryreasonable half hourlyrates, or fixed pricequotes for jobs of 8 hoursor more duration.

FOR ALL THE JOBS YOU CANT DO YOURSELF!

Fo r mo re de t a i l s o r t o book a home v i s i t p l e a se ca l l Ma r t i n on

07970 897317e : m a r t i n n e w m a n 1 9 5 6 @ b t i n t e r n e t . c o m

w w w . t h e m a t u r e h a n d y m a n . c o m

FLOORINGFrom a cloakroom to an

entire house, we have a largeselection of carpets, vinyls orwood laminate flooring whichcan be supplied and fitted

expertly

CARPENTRYCurtain rails, shelving, doorhanging, flat pack furniture

assembly.

PAINTINGAll types of internal andexternal painting and

decorating

PLUMBINGFrom a new tap washer to a

new bathroom suite

THE MATUREHANDYMAN


Plum andAlmond Tart

Served with thick cream, custard or ice cream, thistart makes a delicious warming winter pud. Youcan use other fruits if plums are not available–try chunks of apples or pears or Armagnac-soaked prunes for a special occasion.

Ingredients:

• 175g self-raising flour• 100g unsalted butter, chilled anddiced

• 50g ground almonds• 3 tbsp caster sugar• 1 small egg, beaten• 50g natural marzipan, chilled andgrated

• 4 large plums, stones removed andquartered

• 2 tbsp flaked almonds, roughlychopped

• 2 tbsp Demerara sugar

TIPIf you don’t have an oblong shapedflan tin use a 20cm round loose-basedfluted flan tin instead.Serves 6

Ready in 1 ¼ hours, pluschilling

1. Sift the flour into a bowl, add the diced butterand, using your fingertips, rub the fat intothe flour until the mixture resembles finebreadcrumbs. Stir in the ground almonds.Remove � of the mixture and chill in thefridge.

2. Add the caster sugar and beaten egg to theremaining mixture and mix to a soft, slightlysticky dough. Using floured hands press thedough into the base and up the sides of a 28x 10cm oblong loose-based flan tin (see tip).Chill in the fridge for 30 minutes.

3. Preheat the oven to 180C, 350F, Gas Mark 4.Scatter the grated marzipan in the chilled flancase and top with the plum quarters (skin sideup). Stir the flaked almonds and Demerarasugar into the reserved breadcrumb mixtureand scatter over the plums.

4. Bake the tart in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until crisp and deep goldenbrown. Leave to cool in the tin for 10 minutes.Remove the tart from the tin and slice andserve.

Cake andBake


Crookham SawmillsFencing Panels

preSSure treated15 year guarantee againSt rot

all other typeS of fenCingand deCking01635 [email protected] Burys Bank Road, Crookham Common,Thatcham, RG19 8DE

Also Garden Shedswww.crookhamsawmills.co.uk

PEGASUSMOTOR [email protected]

SERVICING / REPAIRSWe offer a collect and deliver service

• DIAGNOSTICS• AIR CONDITIONING• ALL MAKES & MODELS• VW/AUDI SPECIALISTSPROFESSIONAL, AFFORDABLE & RELIABLE

T. 0118 9713573More than 35 years combinedmain dealer experienceBased in Beenham

FALKLANDBUILDERSOve r 30 yea rs Expe r i ence

All types of Buildingwork undertaken

Brickwork SpecialistExtensions RenovationsAlterations Garden wallsRe-pointing

01635 42744& 07831 470693e: [email protected]

All types of domesticelectrical workundertaken from asimple light fitting toa complete rewire.Fully qualified and insured.Please call to arrange afree no obligation quote.

Call: 01189 42276407766 880504

[email protected]


A Spot of Bother - MarkHaddonThe secrets, hopes anddisappointments of our ordinarylives come into question inHaddon’s great novel aboutone family and the coupleswithin it. George and Jean havebeen married for decades, buttheir daughter Katie, divorced,is now getting remarried, tosomeone who has ‘strangler’shands’, according to her brother.Jean’s trying to keep her affairunder wraps and George hasdiscovered a strange lump orlesion and decides he’s definitelyon his last legs. It’s all a bitof a pickle really and a highlyamusing game of who’ll end upwith whom.Couples - John UpdikeIt’s a bit naughty, this one. Butit’s a classic, so you can’t befrowned upon for reading it! Itfocuses on the promiscuouslives of ten couples living ina small Massachusetts townduring the 1960s and readingit is like stepping back intothe decade of free love andexperimentation. It’s full ofhistoric references and mixesfact and fiction incredibly well.The group of married, fairlywell-off thirty-something yearold couples are taking fulladvantage of new methodsof contraception and moreliberal attitudes. Updike’s novelquestions whether it’s a newutopian society, or whetherthey’re actually in a hell of theirown making.

Us - David NichollsWomen marry men thinkingthey can change them; menmarry women hoping they’llnever change. Douglas wouldbe quite happy to grow old anddie together, but for Connie,that sentiment means theirrelationship is already deadin the water. She announcesshe’s going to pack her bagsand leave him, but is persuadedby Douglas to make one finaltrip together. He’s got a masterplan to reignite the spark and ispinning everything on this oneholiday. Sounds like a fool-proofplan…The Children Act - Ian McEwanHigh Court Judge Fiona Maypresides over family cases,whilst her own home life iscrumbling about her. Herhusband’s asked her if theycan have an open marriageand it doesn’t go down all thatwell. When he leaves, she isleft questioning her own beliefsystem and what it means to bedignified and respectable. Onthe work front she’s tackling thecase of a teenage boy whoseparents won’t permit a medicalprocedure that could save hislife, because of their religiousbeliefs. She’s struggling toget a grip while her world fallsapart around her and it’s trulycompelling writing as she battlesin the courtroom and on thehome front.Juliet, Naked - Nick HornbyWhen you’ve been around theblock and back again, several

thousand times, perhaps it’s timeto move on. Annie’s been playingit safe and settling for Duncanand now she’s getting restlessfor some of that dramatic loveshe’s always dreamed of; thekind that sweeps you off yourfeet. The only trouble is she’smore likely to end up blownoff her feet in the windsweptNorthern town of Gooleness.Does the excitement she craveslie with the American rock starwho emails her… or does sheneed to look elsewhere?The Rosie Project - GraemeSimsionOk, so here’s a last one that’sbeen thrown in because wethink it’s absolutely marvellousand because it features 39 yearold Don Tillman’s ‘Wife Project’:the most scientific approachto finding a missus that you’reever likely to come across. Ifyou thought eHarmony askeda lot of questions, wait until youfill in Don’s questionnaire. He’stall, dark and handsome, but healso seems to have undiagnosedAsperger’s Syndrome. Thisprofessor of genetics hasn’tfound his ‘other half’ and sodevises a series of questionsdesigned to filter out theundesirables. Enter Rosie. She’severything he’s not looking for,and yet she might just be perfectfor him. You will fall in love withthe frustrating character that isDon Tillman and you’ll be rootingfor the old ball and chain to besecured by the end of the novel.Proof there really is someone outthere for everyone.

Roses are red and violets are blue, most poemsrhyme… but they saymarriage is the endof romance, so this one doesn’t. We’ve puttogether a collection of books for the big V-Day celebrations that focus on what happensafter you and your love have been together fora while. Is there really such a thing as ‘happilyever after’? Or this this the beginning of the end?

CouplingBOOK REVIEW


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When Graham Flavell movedto rural Dorset to begin a newjob, he decided to take upcycling as a way of exploringthe countryside. For manyyears he continued to enjoylow-key, leisurely bike journeys:discovering more about thelocal area and enjoying theoccasional family holiday ontwo wheels.In recent months, however,Graham’s commitmentto cycling has undergonesomething of a revolution. He isnow one of the many thousandsof people in the UK for whomcycling has become a serioushobby, and he currently cyclesup to 140 miles each week witha few like-minded friends.Graham says: “We meettwice a week and I enjoy thecamaraderie of cycling in agroup. It was hard when Istarted, but I’ve been amazedhow my fitness has improvedover the last six months.”So where do you start if youhave decided to take up cyclingfor the first time? It reallydepends on what kind of cyclingappeals to you. Will you beusing your bike for transport, forleisure or for competition?Budget is another importantfactor. Not everyone can

afford to buy models such asthe new, lightweight carbonframed bicycles, which cancost up to £1,000. An old bikecan fit the bill (provided you’renot competing in the Tour deFrance or planning any off-roadtrekking), but if you’re buyingsecond hand it’s advisable toget your bike serviced to ensurethat it is roadworthy.If you’re not sure what type ofbicycle you need - and thereare a bewildering variety ofmodels out there - a specialistcycling shop should be ableto help. Alternatively Guardianjournalist Helen Pidd’s bookThe Complete Guide toEveryday Cycling (publishedby Penguin) offers a practical,illustrated guide to buying andriding a bike for the first time.Once you have bought yourbicycle, you’ll need to acquiresome basic skills. How tosignal, how to ride in traffic,how to do an emergency stopand even how to change a tyre:these are all essential thingsto learn before you before youset out on a busy road. TheBritish Cycling website (www.britishcycling.org.uk) allows youto search for a local Bikeabilitycourse, designed to teachyou the skills you need to ride

confidently on today’s roads.Britain’s network of cycle lanesand paths is steadily growing,and cycling is now a muchsafer activity than it used tobe, although urban cyclistsoften complain of cycle lanesbeing too narrow, or the layoutstopping abruptly. Rural roadsoffer their own challenges, butafter a lifetime’s cycling alongcountry lanes Graham Flavellsays that the drivers he has metare generally respectful.Sport England claims that over2.1 million people currentlycycle on a weekly basis in theUK and in the autumn of lastyear the government publisheda draft version of its CyclingDelivery Plan for consultation,giving details of a 10-yearstrategy that includes theambition to double the amountof cycling activity on Britain’sroads by the year 2025.The government is keen topromote this plan becausecycling not only benefits ourmental and physical health, italso protects the environmentby cutting down on carbonemissions.Graham Flavell agrees thereare really no better reasons toget on your bike!

HobbiesGet Ready For TheCycling Revolution

By Kate McLelland

Get Ready fortheCyclingRevolutionBy Katie Mclelland


Organised by the British Trustfor Ornithology, or BTO, theweek is an important one for allthe brilliant birds we have in theUK, from Robins to Owls!

The idea behind the week is to get us all to put upnest boxes in our local areas, not only to protectthe wildlife we already have, but to encourageeven more birds to brood in our backyards!

National Nest BoxWeek started in 1997. As moretrees are cut down, birds lose their homes, soputting up boxes is a great way of helping ourwinged friends - and it's thought there's nowbetween 5 to 6 million boxes across the UK!

And don't worry if, like me, you've never put up abird box before. At the officialNational Nest BoxWeekwebsite, there are lots of hints and tips toget you started, as well as information on howto monitor the box and see what kind of wildlifeyou're likely to attract! And, by visiting the websiteyou can find out more about the events takingplace up and down the country during the week.

Different types of boxes will attract differenttypes of birds. For example, small holes innest boxes will attract the Blue Tit, Great Tit,Nuthatch and House Sparrow. Large boxes withholes will attract Starlings, the Greater SpottedWoodpecker and even the Little Owl. Openfronted boxes will attract the Robin and PiedWagtail and very big boxes attract, amongstothers the Kestrel, Jackdaw and Tawny Owl.

So, you can either make your own nestbox, or follow the link at the official siteand buy a ready made box and set it up inyour garden. Then all you have to do is waitpatiently and see what happens next ...

Is This The LatestHousingCrisis?!National Nest BoxWeek takes places from 14-21

February 2015 and it’s a chance for you to encourage

birds in your garden to come home to roost!


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Across1 European country (7)5 Scour (5)8 Inflamed (7)9 Precise (5)10 Strict (5)11 Operating room (7)12 Painter (6)14 Lethal (6)17 Non professional (7)19 Likeness (5)22 Edgy, anxious (5)23 Revised (7)24 Father (5)25 Harnessed to ride (7)

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Fancy a game of Strip JackNaked? Or maybe BlackMaria? What about a quickhand of Snip Snap Snorum?If these activities soundstrange you may be relievedto discover that they are allcard games whose rules arenow lost in the mists of time,but it’s probably no surpriseto find that some games havefallen out of fashion over thecenturies. What is surprisingis that card games havemanaged to survive at all inthis age of virtual gaming.The fact that card gameshave lasted into the 21stcentury speaks volumesabout the enduring powerof playing cards to fascinateand entertain us. It’s nowwidely believed that they wereinvented in China: some ofthe earliest references to cardplaying by the Chinese nobilitydate as far back as the 9thcentury. Because they werelight and easy to transport,traders carried decks of cardsabroad and so the fashionrapidly spread to Egypt, Persiaand India.Card games eventuallyreached Europe in the 15thcentury. During this periodthe Italians invented the Tarot

deck, which saw an additionalset of trump cards added tothe standard deck. These wereused as ordinary playing cardsuntil the 18th century, whenthey also began to be used forfortune-telling.The Georgians and Victorianswere keen card players andfavourite games includedWhist, Ecarte, Faro and Loo.In the early 20th centurygames such as Pontoon, GinRummy, Canasta and ContractBridge became popular but theinterest in card games beganto fade in the second half ofthat century as television andother distractions temptedpeople to abandon their socialgaming habits.It’s good to know that in spiteof computers and the internet(or perhaps because of them)card gaming is once moregrowing in popularity, but inaddition to online gaming,people are also comingtogether to play socially. Aswell as old favourites suchas Poker and Bridge, there’sa huge interest in collectiblecard games, where playersuse specially designed sets ofplaying cards and trade theircards during a game.You can find a list of local clubs

at www.orcsnest.com/clubs.htm and www.ukgmn.co.uk oralternatively ask at your locallibrary. Many pubs now hostinformal groups playing cardgames such as Cribbage orPoker, so it’s worth askingthe landlord of your localpub if they have card playingevenings.If you can’t find a local groupthat meets your needs, youcould consider setting up yourown club. A pub or local cafémay be the ideal place to gettogether, but do check with theowner to see if they have anyobjections before setting upa meeting. This is particularlyimportant if you want to play formoney, as the premises maynot be licensed for gambling.If you are joining – or starting– a club you’ll find it’s a goodway to make new friends whoshare your passion. It’s alsoa great way to exercise yourbrain.So many different games …so many ways to play them.When you consider that all thispotential can be found in just52 pieces of printed paper, it’sno wonder that card gameshave managed to retain theirappeal over thousands ofyears.

HobbiesWhy cards are still king

when you want to play

By Kate McLelland

Whycards arestill kingwhenyouwant to playBy Katie Mclelland


As children we are all happy todraw and paint but as we growolder we often lose confidencein our abilities. School is not theeasiest environment in which todevelop creative talent, so it’snot surprising that many of usabandon Art as a subject in ourmid-teens. It’s encouraging tolearn, however, that art galleryvisitor numbers have massivelyincreased in recent years andthis seems to have inspiredmore people to revisit theirartistic skills as adults.

Once you have decided tohave a go at painting, thefirst step is to choose thetype of paint and brushesyou will use. Do you want tocreate delicate watercoloursor big, bold canvases? Doyou admire artists who paintwith photographic attention todetail or do you prefer abstractart, where the paint can berandomly poured, splashed ordripped onto canvas to createbold shapes and patterns?

We’ve all used watercolourpaints when young, so manypeople find it natural to returnto that medium as adults.Watercolours may be versatileand easy to apply, but don’texpect instant results: you’llneed to spend time learningand practising the necessary

techniques, otherwise yourpaintings may bear anunfortunate resemblance to theartwork you created back inClass 9C!

Acrylic paints are similar to oilpaints but easier to use: yourwork will dry faster and youwon’t need to use solvents toclean your brushes. Acrylicscan be mixed with water, so youcan either paint with intensecolour or dilute the pigment toproduce transparent washes.This medium also dries to arobust finish: acrylic paintingscan be safely rolled up withoutthe risk of cracking.

Oil paints allow you to createwonderfully expressiveimages, but using oils can bea challenge for a beginner asyou will need to dilute the paintwith thinners (white spirit orturpentine) as well as addinga medium, such as linseed orpoppy oil, to bind the pigmentsin the paint and help with thedrying process.

An oil painting should be builtup layer-by-layer, but you mustallow time for the layers to dry:it can sometimes take up tofive days for this process andduring that period you will beunable to work on the canvas.Fortunately you can now buy

specially made fast-drying oilsthat will be touch dry in 24hours or less.

Make sure you have a varietyof brushes available: roundbrushes are excellent forcontrol and accuracy while flatbrushes are great for edgingand filling in areas.

There are some useful onlinetutorials to help you developyour skills using water paints,acrylics and oils: www.wikihow.com has great step-by-stepillustrated guides to get youstarted. Alternatively you couldget face-to-face tuition at anadult education institute (yourlocal library will carry a list ofcourses). Alternatively you cansearch for painting holidays atwww.artcourses.co.uk.

When you first start to paintthe important thing is not to setunrealistic goals for yourself.It may be years before youfeel confident enough to hangyour work in a room, butthat shouldn’t stop you fromenjoying the process. If youmake fun and relaxation yourprimary reason for picking up a paintbrush, you can’t go wrong.

HobbiesTime To Pick Up APaintbrush

By Kate McLelland

Time topick up apaintbrushBy Katie Mclelland


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The combination of the poorweather in February and thevery fact that gardens tend tobe at their least appealing thismonth, means the chancesare yours is receiving nothingmuch more than a fair helpingof neglect at the moment. Butspring isn’t far away so get yourgardening gloves on for a bit ofpreparation.Start by clearing up anyremaining fallen leaves, brokentwigs. Twigs and woody debrisare best binned or burned orperhaps even heaped up inthe corner of the garden toact as a sheltering spot forwildlife, but fallen leaves, andthe top growth of herbaceousperennials, can be added to thecompost heap.When it comes to tacklingherbaceous or flower borders,don’t make things look tooclean and tidy, as you may wellcut down on the protection thatfaded top-growth can provide.I tend to leave most of theremains of herbaceous plantsin place until spring, but themost ugly, straggly or unkemptbits could certainly be clearedup now. Keep a particular lookout for slugs and snails andcollect them up while they are

snoozing!It is too early in the year tocut your lawn and indeed youshould try to keep off it as faras possible, but you can cleartwigs and leaves and cut backany weeds which have grownfaster than the grass itself.You can use any pots or othercontainers which have beenleft around the garden to createspots of colour and interest byclearing them out, using freshcompost and then replantingthem. If you choose temporarywinter plantings such as winterflowering pansies or pompomwinter daisies, then these cansimply be removed when it istime to replant with summerbedding. Scrubbing downthe outer surfaces of pots andcontainers will also help toclean them up again, becauseby now they have invariablyaccumulated a good helpingof algae and soil and can lookquite a mess.Check fruit trees for signs ofany dead shrivelled fruit still onthe branches and cut these out,as they often harbour brownrot disease and can cause alot of problems in the future.However these definitely

shouldn’t be composted - bin orburn any you find.Use a stiff brush to clear offsurface debris from your terraceor patio and then once it isclear, if it still looks in need ofa bit of a facelift, use the stiffbrush or yard broom to scrubit over thoroughly. Providedfreezing weather is not forecast,wash it over with a few bucketsof water.A trip to your local gardencentre is bound to give youplenty of ideas for what’slooking good this month. Someof my favourites include thesmall trees or shrubs whichhave a delicious fragranceduring the winter months.These include winter sweet,hamamelis (witch hazel) andsarcococca. You can now buypots of snowdrop bulbs whichare not far from flowering so‘cheat’ a little and pop a few ofthese into the ground. Winterflowering heathers and winterflowering pansies can also beused to great effect right now.Visit Pippa’s website www.pippagreenwood.com for‘Grow Your Own with PippaGreenwood’ veg growingsystem , biological controls,fleece, copper tape and lotsmore besides.

Preparingfor WarmerWeather

by Pippa Greenwood

GARDENING FEATURE


Continued on page 54

As daffodils come into bloomand the pale sun hintsat approaching summerwarmth, it’s easy to forgetthe miseries of the winter justpassed. Travel delays, coldsand flu, slushy pavementsand sub-zero conditions alladd to the feeling that natureis conspiring against you.

During the cold and darkmonths from November toFebruary many people preferto hibernate at home if theycan, rather than ventureoutside. At a time when roadand rail networks can grindto a halt after only a dustingof snow, it’s no wonder thatmany of us want to stay put,but shutting yourself awayin wintertime only adds tothe feeling of gloom andisolation.

An escape to the sun in thedepths of a bitter Britishwinter can be a real tonicbut you’ll need to chooseyour destination carefully:unless you are prepared fora long journey, your wintersun experience may be abit of a washout. Popularholiday destinations in Spainand Greece that can reachblisteringly hot temperatures

in the summer may be cooland rainy during the wintermonths, so check seasonaltemperatures before youbook.

One of the best choices foran accessibly priced wintersun break is the SpanishCanary Islands, situatedoff the coast of Morocco, inNorth Africa, which enjoywinter temperatures ofbetween 20ºC (68ºF) - 21ºC(70ºF).

The Canaries offer a range ofdifferent landscapes includinglush green mountains, desertdunes, dramatic volcanicpeaks and long, sandybeaches and they are justfour and a half hours’ flighttime from the UK. Whetheryou crave fast nightlife ina lively resort or a tranquilbreak in a boutique hotelyou’ll find accommodationhere to suit your tastes.

One of the most reliablywarm destinations for wintersun is Marrakesh, a majorcity in the north west ofMorocco famed for its souks,historic tombs and ancientpalaces. Marrakesh is a merefour hours away by plane andthe area hits a comfortable

daily peak of 18ºC (65ºF)over the winter months. InFebruary temperatures startto climb to 20ºC and above,so mid-February is an idealtime to go if you want to dosome serious sunbathing.

Another reasonably-pricedlocation for a midwinteror early spring break isCyprus. The warmest of allthe Mediterranean islands,Cyprus - a fascinating islandwith thousands of years ofhistory to explore - is alsojust four hours by plane.Cypriot winter days aremostly dry and sunny, withpleasant temperatures ofaround 15ºC (60ºF), but don’texpect bikini weather untilApril at the earliest.

Tunisia in North Africa enjoysslightly warmer averagetemperatures - 12ºC (53ºF)to 17ºC (63ºF) in Decemberand January – and is apopular destination for wintersun worshippers because ofits excellent beach resorts,colourful markets andbeautiful ancient buildings.

Madeira enjoys an eventemperature all the yearround and in winter you canexpect a steady, comfortable

Winter SunThe SimpleSolution To ThoseSeasonal Blues!

by Kate McLelland


Five TipsTo FeedThe Flame

by Kate McLelland

Ask any long-established,middle-aged couple how theykeep romance alive, andthere’s a good chance they willlaugh out loud.It’s not surprising. All thoseshared experiences of child-rearing, family crises, careerups-and-downs and housemoves can leave you with a“joined-at-the hip” feeling that’sa million miles away from theattraction to an exotic “other”you felt when you first fell inlove.The number of people agedsixty years and over headingoff to the divorce courts (aptlydubbed “Silver Splitters”) hasrisen by forty five per cent overthe last decade and one of themain reasons for this dramaticstatistic is that people are nowliving longer and seeking morefrom their relationships.So what is the secret when itcomes to keeping love alive?Here are five key tips to keepyour relationship fresh:1.Challenge yourself andyour partnerTrying out new pastimes andhobbies or travelling to newplaces can be great ways torevive a tired relationship,but the key word here is“new”: it’s important to moveout of your comfort zone.You’ll be surprised howquickly the spark returns

when you do somethingunexpected or face achallenge together.

2.Hug more, praise moreHave you both fallen outof the habit of touching,hugging and smiling? Givingthe odd kiss or word ofencouragement? It may bedifficult to start hugging andkissing your partner if youdon’t usually behave in thatway, but begin by lookingfor small opportunities tooffer praise and physicalreassurance and graduallybuild up from there.With luck – and givenenough time - your partnerwill respond in the sameway. If not, then have anhonest discussion about whyphysical contact is importantto you.

3.Don’t create your ownstereotypesYou’re not “mum” and “dad”to each other. Avoid thetrap of falling into cosystereotypes that preventyou from expressing yourindividuality. Rememberthat friends and family mayalso be reluctant to see youchange, so gently assertyourself if you’re feelingunder pressure to conform totheir expectations.

4. Eavesdrop on your ownconversationsListen to yourself as you talk

with your partner and make amental note of any negativeconversational habits. Somecouples constantly put eachother down, while othersknow each others’ thoughtsso well they tend to finisheach others’ sentences.Neither approach isparticularly helpful ifyou want to refresh yourrelationship, so if you’renot happy with what youhear, start working outways to improve yourcommunication.

5.Don’t be afraid of nostalgiaThere’s no shame inindulging in a little nostalgia.Revisit the music you firstlistened to together, lookat old photographs and goto places that were onceimportant to you both. Enjoyyour shared history and thinkback to the spark that madeit all happen.

You’ll need courage andhonesty to break down habitsthat have built up over years. Itmay take time for the processto work, but it will be worth itin the end. If you can tap intosome of the excitement ofyour youth by discovering newinterests and rediscoveringold pleasures, there’s everychance you’ll relight a flamethat will keep you warm formany years to come.

Continued on page 54


But its origins are shroudedin mystery. The day itself isnamed after at least threemartyrs called Valentine, yetno romantic elements areassociated with any of them,however hard anyone tries torewrite history to fit our modernbeliefs. The first suggestion ofthis day becoming affiliated withlovers is a mention in GeoffreyChaucer’s poem ‘Parlement ofFoules’, a poemwritten in 1382to celebrate the loving marriagebetween King Richard II andAnne of Bohemia. Even so, itis unlikely that the Valentine’sDay Chaucer referred to in hispoemwas even in February.

More likely is the suggestionthat a festival celebrating lovewas a much older event, datingfrom Roman times. In thosedays, February was a monthdedicated to rather rowdyfestivals honouring variousgods and goddesses, many ofwhom signified love and fertility.

Regardless of the historicalorigins of Valentine’s Day,the date has long been thesubject of numerous traditionsand superstitions pertainingto discovering whom you arelikely to marry. It is said thatthe first bird a girl sees onValentine’s Day will predict herfuture husband’s personality.For example, if she sees asparrow, she will marry a poorman but will be very happy, anowl would mean she wouldn’tmarry at all, a goldfinch would

foretell marriage to a rich manwhile a flock of doves symbolisea happy, peaceful marriage.

In Wales, wooden spoonswere lovingly hand-carvedand presented as gifts onFebruary 14th, a tradition thatis still marketed. The symbolson the spoons are generallyhearts, keys and keyholessignifying “you have the key tomy heart”. The beautiful Celticlove knot is also a populardesign as this unbroken andcontinuous knot symbolises alove with the same attributes.

Somewhat more modern isthe idea that the first malename you hear on the radioor TV will be the same nameas the man you will marry.

Among these superstitionsthere is one in particular thatis accurate and charming: to

be woken up with a kisson Valentine’s morning isconsidered lucky. This makesa lot of sense as, if thishappens to you, you are mostdefinitely lucky to be witha partner that loves you.

However commercialisedValentine’s Day has become,the underlying sentimentremains the same: expressingyour love for someone inwhichever way suits you best.But if you do send Valentine’scards, it is still consideredunlucky to sign them!

St Valentine’s Day14th February has become one of themostcommercialised dates in the calendar.

We all know it is designed for peopleto declare their love for one anotherand usually involves sending of cards,flowers, chocolates or other gifts.


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Newbury & DistrictCancer Care Trust“A team of 20 volunteer drivers

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If you’regym-phobic,sign up here

by Kate McLelland

Tempted by the discountedmembership fee advertisedin my local paper, I thought ofsigning up for my local gym.However one look throughthose expensive, plate glasswindows at the rows of fit,lycra-clad young peoplelifting, pushing and joggingmade me think again. Withmy spreading waistline ondisplay over the top of my1990s jogging pants, I wouldfeel more out of place than apenguin in the tropics.The image of modern gymsas temples to the young andsuper-fit is hard to shakeoff: in fact surveys suggestthat less than 20% of us areprepared to use a gym to stayin shape. So where can yougo if, like me, you no longermatch the description “youngand super-fit” and have anintermittent back problemthat gets worse with vigorousexercise?If you want a really gentleform of exercise that aidsmobility and balance, youmight try Tai Chi. Thisdiscipline combines relaxationand deep breathing with slow,gentle continuous movements:improving muscle strength inthe legs, helping your balanceand reducing stress.Many people are dissuaded

from taking up Yoga by thoseimages of practitioners withlimbs contorted into eye-watering positions – but thefirst principle of Yoga is todo as much, or as little, asyour body feels capable ofdoing. However, the word‘Yoga’ covers many differentkinds of practice so do someresearch before signing up fora class. For example, Iyengaris about perfecting poses,holding them for a period oftime while breathing deeplyand checking your body’salignment, while Ashtangayoga can be vigorous andintense.If you don’t want a classwhere you need to movearound, Pilates might bethe one for you. Pilates hasmany similarities to Yoga andfocuses on rebalancing thebody, improving posture andbuilding both muscle strengthand endurance through slow,controlled movements.Nordic Walking is easy onyour joints and works well forall ages and fitness levels. Itis an enhancement of walking,where special poles are usedto engage the upper bodymuscles as well as the legs.There are a range of classesavailable, from gentle walksfor people with health issues

to workout-style walks thathelp you lose weight and toneyour whole body.Finally, you may have heardabout Zumba. This is adance exercise craze startedby Colombian dancer andchoreographer Alberto Perezin the 1990s that uses Latinrhythms as the inspiration fora fun fitness programme. Youcan join a class at any level,from a slower, beginners’session to a full-on aerobicwork out. Active older adultscan take part in a ZumbaGold class, offering a lowerintensity version of the normalZumba routines.Many of the exercise methodsmentioned here can cater forpeople with health issues (butdo see your doctor if you haveconcerns). A good instructorwill want to know about anyproblems you have, so makesure to tell yours if you haveany conditions that mightaffect your ability to undertakecertain exercises. You canfind out more at www.nhs.uk/livewell/fitness.If – like me – the sight of agym leaves you sweatingbefore the workout evenbegins, there’s no longeran excuse to stay at home.Forget the lycra: just get outthere and get fit.


Amy Starr - Amy offers sports massage therapy at The Life Centre andoffers appointments tailor-made to suit your personal requirements. Treatment isdesigned to release muscle tension and restore balance to the musculoskeletalsystem. The benefits can be immense, and include physical, physiological andpsychological improvements. To make an appointment and for 10% off your firsttreatment call Amy on 07552 302247 or email: [email protected]

Mandy Barter - Mandy is trained in Acupuncture and Tui Na massage,which uses acupuncture points and channels but without needles. She is alsoa Reflexologist. She is a member of The British Acupuncture Council, TheBritish Reflexology Association and is a founder member of ACT Berkshire,the Acupuncture for Conception and Childbirth team. 10% off first treatmentwhen you mention this advert. Mandy can be contacted on 07980 127560.

Helen Bowden - Helen is our Massage Therapist specialising inSwedish, Deep Tissue and Pregnancy Massage. Although massage isoften thought of as a luxury, like regular exercise, it benefits the bodyby enhancing your physical and mental wellbeing. When you make anappointment, or buy a gift for a friend or loved one, you will receive 10%off your first treatment with this advert. Call Helen on 07791 073495.

Jo Dunn - Tai Chi is the ancient art of slow, energising,strengthening exercises, where the holistic impact can be felton the whole person, so that mind and body are co-ordinated,harmonised and brought back into balance. FIRST CLASS FREE.Weds: 7.15pm. Tues: 10.00am. Call Jo on 07816 751212.

Maria Bird - Maria heads the team at The Life Centre - she is anIyengar Yoga Teacher who has been practising and teaching yoga for thepast 23 years. Yoga becomes a way of life for many - improving flexibility,strength and stamina both in body and mind. For class information orto try your first class for free please call Maria on 07989 403167.

Maria Nolan - Osteopath. Maria works from The Life Centre andtreats patients with a variety of musculoskeletal conditions, includingBack, Neck and Shoulder pain; Sports related Injuries; Pregnancy relatedconditions; Postural and Occupational issues and also Age-relatedconditions. Call Maria on 07591 094223 for further information andreceive 20% off your first appointment when you mention this advert.

Your health choice

The Life Centre -Midghamwww.thelifecentremidgham.co.ukTel: 07989 403 167or email:[email protected]

The Life Centre 2015 holds: Pilates classes, Mindfulness for Stress, Nutritional Advice and Breathing Transformation courses


In the new purpose built studio at:

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Tai Chi (Taiji) is anInternal Martial Art bornfrom the ancient healing

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Slow, gentle movementswork on strengtheningmuscles, increasingstamina, improvingcoordination, while

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Jo is a highly qualifiedand experiencedteacher. She bringsher warmth, humourand understanding ofpeople and life to allher classes, giving backthese healing, energisingand restorative exercises

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Do you yearn for thecharming styles of thepast? For the prettypatterns and jollycolours, the home-made accessories, thesimple good looks thatmade a home reallyhomely? Then readon for interiors expertKatherine Sorrell’s lookat nostalgic style.It’s such a tempting idea – togive up today’s gadget-boundand stressful complexitiesand return to a simpler way oflife: all home-made, home-grown and home-cooked. Inpractice, of course, that maynot be possible but, at thevery least, why not surroundyourself with some of thecomforts of an old-fashionedhome? The result is anunfussy but nurturing stylethat can mix and match thebest of past and present in

a way thatsuits youperfectly.Take a lookat your floorsfor a firststep towardsnostalgicstyle. Plainor paintedwoodenboardsare ideal,with flat-

woven rugs for extra warmthwhere necessary, thoughneutral carpets or natural-fibre coverings are a goodalternative, while you couldopt for stone tiles in hallwaysor kitchens. On the walls, youmight keep things plain andsimple with while or off-whitepaint, or else push the boatout and go for floral wallpaper.A hand-block printed effect,in a palette of light, bright andcheery colours, is particularlyeffective. For bathrooms andkitchens, painted tongue andgroove panelling or whitebevel-edged tiles (laid ina brick bond pattern) workespecially well.The good news here isthat furniture can be reallyinexpensive – the sort of thingyou might pick up at a localauction or even a second-hand shop for next to nothing.Look for sturdy, useful piecesin a timeless style, madefrom pine, oak or LloydLoom. Anything too dark orheavy looking can be painted– though make sure it is nottoo massive and overbearingin the room. Don’t expect

perfection: knocked cornersor faded upholstery may evenenhance the overall look,while mismatching piecesaren’t too much of a problemprovided they fit into theoverall aesthetic. If in doubt,a lick of paint or a well-positioned throw can workwonders.Textiles are often the key togetting nostalgic style justright. Think plain fabricscombined with tickingstripes, gingham, spots andflorals – spriggy or else big,blowsy blooms. Don’t aim forover-co-ordination; instead,a range of complementarycolours and patterns givesa suitably eclectic effect.Natural fabrics (such ascotton, linen and wool) arenicest, in a range of weightsand effects, such as tweed,canvas, muslin or sateen.Look out for interestingremnants at markets,auctions and car boot salesthat, if you’re good with a

Home & InteriorsLook Back In Nostalgia By Katherine Sorrell

FEATURE


sewing machine, can berun up into all sorts of lovelyitems. Window treatments,for example, are a doddle– just a pair of gatheredcurtains – while leftoverscan quickly be made intocushion covers. Add ric rac,ribbon or bobble trims to yourheart’s content. Patchworkquilts, of course, are simplyperfect in the bedroom, asare Welsh blankets and satineiderdowns, while knittingand crochet (especiallygranny squares) are essentialingredients in virtually anyroom.Displays of pretty accessoriescan be the making of thislook, whether it’s sponge-printed ceramics, pressedglass, blue-and-whitecrockery or enamelware.Modern reproductionsare easy to find and notexpensive, but more fun

can be had in seeking outjust the right original bitsand bobs, from storage jarsto aprons, cut-glass jugs towooden kitchen utensils,whether it’s at a vintage fair,charity shops or your localcar boot sale. Think dresserspiled with pretty crockery,a stack of biscuit tins on ashelf or lace-edged towels

in the bathroom. Add wovenbaskets, metal buckets,vintage milk bottles, bristlebrushes, some lengths ofbunting, even old books suchas orange Penguin classicsor Ladybird children’s stories;and finish things off withsome informal arrangementsof native flowers tucked intojam jars or informal jugs orvases. The result? You havetransformed yesterday’spleasures into today’sdelightful treasures.

Top left - Clara Lemon rollers, from £69(65cm w x 75cm d) including measuringand fitting, Hillarys. Tel 0800 916 6516;

hillarys.co.uk. Bottom right - A selectionof crockery from Cath Kidston’s spring2015 ranges, tel 08450 262 440; www.

cathkidston.co.uk. Top centre- Southwolddouble bed frame, £249; Southwold one-drawer bedside table, £79; Tonal Rosesdouble duvet set, £15; Chevron rug, £55;Light Naturals faux fur cushion, £12; greyfrosted vase (tall), £12; all Tesco, tel 0800

323 4050; www.tesco.com.


WHAT’S ON INTHE COMMUNITY:

13 JANUARY 2015 TO 31 MARCH 2015

EXPERIMENTAL DRAWINGNEW GREENHAM ARTS, 113LINDENMUTH WAY, NEW GREENHAMBUSINESS PARK, NEWBURY,BERKSHIRE RG19 6HN

7:30PM - 9:30PM 07905 973817

With Sally Haynes, this is a ten-weekcourse designed to encourage artists todraw using all their senses, not just thevisual. Sally's classes are never repeated;each week a new subject matter will beprovided and students will choose todevelop their work in a variety of ways,working in sketch books and at a largescale using the floor, walls or easels. Avariety of media, methods and materialswill be explored, encouraging new waysof working. £120 for 10 week course.

22 JANUARY 2015 TO 24FEBRUARY 2015

NATIONAL THEATRE –LIVE: TREASURE ISLANDCORN EXCHANGE MARKET PLACENEWBURY BERKSHIRE RG14

7pm | £14 (£12 concessions)

CONTACT TELEPHONE: 08455218 218 AND CHECK TIMES

Robert Louis Stevenson’s story ofmurder, money and mutiny is broughtto life in a thrilling new stage adaptationby Bryony Lavery, broadcast live fromthe National Theatre. It’s a dark, stormynight. The stars are out. Jim, the inn-

keeper’s granddaughter, opens thedoor to a terrifying stranger. At the oldsailor’s feet sits a huge sea-chest, fullof secrets. Jim invites him in – andher dangerous voyage begins.

15 FEBRUARY 2015

PETE ALLEN - A UNIQUEJAZZ SOLO MUSIC SHOWREGENCY PARK HOTEL, THATCHAM,BERKS, BERKSHIRE RG18 3RP

TICKETS ARE £10 IF PRE BOOKED(01635 44806) YOU CAN SAVE 20% ONA PRE SHOW SUNDAY LUNCH (SUNDAYLUNCH TO BE BOOKED DIRECTLYWITH THE HOTEL 01635 871555)

Described as Britain's most excitingclarinet player and awarded with anHonorary Citizen of New Orleansfor his services to music, Musician,bandleader and broadcaster Pete Allenpresents his unique 'one man show'of happy music where he performs awell orchestrated varied programmeof well known traditional jazz classicstogether with many of your favouritemelodies and songs from 'Strangeron the Shore' to 'King of the Road'.

18 FEBRUARY 2015

BBOWT - LINKINGTHE LANDSCAPE:TEAM RANGERSNATURE DISCOVERY CENTRE,THATCHAM, BERKSHIRE, RG19 3FU

DIARY DATES


Information sourced from www.wherecanwego.com

10:00AM - 2:00PM FREE/DONATION

CONTACT TELEPHONE: 01635 500 886CALL TO CHECK LATEST TIMESOR CANCELLATIONS. WWW.BBOWT.ORG.UK/WHATS-ON

Come and join us in the great outdoorsand do something special this HalfTerm! We are looking for some wildlifewarriors to get hands on experiencewith wildlife conservation. You will getthe chance to cut down small treesand scrub; clear paths & cuttings andlots more. BOOKING ESSENTIAL.

19-21 FEBRUARY 2015

KATS - MUSICAL BYVICTORIA WOODKENNET SCHOOL THATCHAM

7.30 PM DAILY

SEE PAGE 3 FOR FULL DETAILS.

9 MARCH 2015

FLY A FLAG FOR THECOMMONWEALTH (A NEWINITIATIVE STARTED 2014)THATCHAM TOWN COUNCIL OFFICES

10:00 AM

Flag raising by the Mayor, CouncillorGary Johnson, followed by refreshmentsin the Council Chamber.

21 MARCH 2015

THATCHAM TOWNMAYOR’S CHARITYCONCERTST MARY’S CHURCH, THATCHAM

7.00 PM

TICKETS £5, UNDER 16S FREE

A fundraiser concert in aid of the TownMayor’s chosen charities: West BerkshireTherapy Centre & The Rainbow Roomsat West Berkshire Community Hospital.

22 MARCH 2015

THE JAZZALIKES(PETE ALLEN & DAVEBROWNING)REGENCY PARK HOTEL, THATCHAM,BERKS, BERKSHIRE RG18 3RP

3.00 PM

ADMISSION £11 AT THE DOOR, IFPRE BOOKED (01635 44806) YOUCAN SAVE 20% ON A PRE SHOWSUNDAY LUNCH (SUNDAY LUNCHTO BE BOOKED DIRECTLY WITHTHE HOTEL 01635 871555)

Dave Browning (Piano) joins PeteAllen, Britain's most exciting clarinetplayer, for an afternoon of traditionaljazz and favourite melodies.


daytime heat of 20ºC (68ºF)with an average of six hoursof sun every day. Howeverthe Madeira islands get theirshare of stormy weatherin winter and there is agreater risk of heavy rain inDecember and January.

If you are really hankeringafter summer temperatures,you’ll need to take a muchlonger flight, but be awarethat as flight times lengthen,holiday prices will riseaccordingly. At seven hours’flying time from the UK, Dubaiis now a booming holidaydestination for well-heeledtourists. Dubai’s winter lastsfrom January till March buttemperatures during thattime can still reach 30ºC(86ºF). There’s an averageeight hours of sun each day,but you can also expect

sudden rain showers andthunderstorms during thistime.You can reach Barbados ineight to nine hours and inreturn for the extra travellingtime you’ll be rewarded withbeautiful Caribbean beaches,excellent restaurants and highquality leisure facilities. Youcan expect temperatures of29ºC - 30ºC (with a similarlyhigh sea temperature) right through until the end of March.St Kitts, withits long, goldenbeaches,plantations andrainforests, canbe reachedin anotherhour by plane,but at 27ºC- 28ºC, winter

temperatures here are slightlycooler than in Barbados.

When it comes to price, thegreat thing is that there isa winter holiday to suit justabout everyone’s budget.Admittedly you’ll need deeppockets for some of theoptions mentioned above,but the typical starting pricefor a week long, all-inclusiveholiday for two at a purpose-

built resort in the Canaries is just over £300. So if you’re one

of those people who gets a sinking feeling every autumn as theyanticipate thewinter to come, aholiday in the sunmay be just thesolution you’vebeen looking for.

way, but begin by lookingfor small opportunities tooffer praise and physicalreassurance and graduallybuild up from there.With luck – and givenenough time - your partnerwill respond in the sameway. If not, then have anhonest discussion aboutwhy physical contact isimportant to you.

3. Don’t create your ownstereotypesYou’re not “mum” and“dad” to each other. Avoidthe trap of falling into cosystereotypes that preventyou from expressing yourindividuality. Rememberthat friends and familymay also be reluctant tosee you change, so gentlyassert yourself if you’refeeling under pressure

to conform to theirexpectations.

4. Eavesdrop on your ownconversationsListen to yourself as youtalk with your partner andmake a mental note of anynegative conversationalhabits. Some couplesconstantly put each otherdown, while others knoweach others’ thoughts sowell they tend to finisheach others’ sentences.Neither approach isparticularly helpful if youwant to refresh yourrelationship, so if you’renot happy with what youhear, start working outways to improve yourcommunication.

5. Don’t be afraid ofnostalgiaThere’s no shame

in indulging in a littlenostalgia. Revisit themusic you first listenedto together, look at oldphotographs and go toplaces that were onceimportant to you both.Enjoy your shared historyand think back to thespark that made it allhappen.

You’ll need courage andhonesty to break downhabits that have built up overyears. It may take time forthe process to work, but itwill be worth it in the end. Ifyou can tap into some of theexcitement of your youth bydiscovering new interests andrediscovering old pleasures,there’s every chance you’llrelight a flame that will keepyou warm for many years tocome.

Continued from page 39

Continued from page 40

[email protected] 0118 9886070 www.thatchamconnections.co.uk 55See page 58 for Answers


www.readtheatreschools.co.uk

DANCE - SINGING - DRAMAEvery Saturday - Frank Hutchings Community HallsLITTLE STARS (3-4 yrs - 9:30-10:15am): Fun, creativedance, drama and singing experiences for pre-schoolers.

MINI THEATRE SCHOOL (5-6 yrs - 9:30-10:30am)Dance, sing and act in energetic classes designed todevelop co-ordination, confidence and the imagination.

SATURDAY THEATRE SCHOOL (7-17yrs - 10:30-1:30pm)Harness and develop performance skills and techniques indance, singing and drama in exciting workshops that inspireexpression and creativity.

ANNUAL SHOWS! EASTER & SUMMER HOLIDAY COURSES!

Book a FREE trial: 07920 748784


We have greeted the New Year in with theopening of Woodpeckers, our new baby/toddler area. This exciting new play spacehas been specifically designed for our oldestbabies. Woodpeckers gives them space toexplore and to discover, in a safe and secureenvironment. With our experiencedprofessional caring team close at hand toencourage and support their individual, playlearning and developmental needs.

In addition, Woodpeckers have their own outdoor playarea, which is easily accessible, along with their muchloved trips to our woods and farm. The children also enjoya variety of activities, including toddler sensory, helpingthem gain skills in rhythm and beat.

Other exciting plans at Jubilee Day Nursery and JubileeGems for 2015 include the opening of our Summer Schoolfor all pre-school children. Booking forms and informationwill be available after May half term.

At Jubilee Gems

Our term-time nursery for 2 year olds to school age children continues togrow and develop. With lots of new and exciting activities planned,including more adventures exploringthe local environment in our Jubileeminibus.

As the weather continues to improveand spring arrives we will bespending more time creating new andexciting areas within ouroutdoor play spaces. We are alllooking forward to the spring and thearrival of lambs, chicks and ducklings.

Welcoming our Woodpeckers to Jubilee Day Nursery

Call Lesley on 01189 701 600Email [email protected] visit our websitewww.jubileedaynursery.co.uk

Call Sian on 01189 834 018Email [email protected]

or visit our websitewww.jubileegems.co.uk

If you would like your child to be part of the Jubilee experience or would liketo become part of our growing team then please contact us today.


NEWBURY,HUNGERFORD & HENLEYT: 01635 860959E: [email protected]: [email protected]: [email protected]: [email protected]: [email protected]

If you’re a young keenfootballer, pleasecome and join us!

Boys & Girls 4 to 17 yearsold are welcome to join usin a friendly environment.

Please contact Steve Bartlett on07732 711384 or 01635 32494

www.co lda sh f c . co . uk

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Wordsearch (Page 42)Hidden phrase: Astrologers that future fates foreshow.Alexander Pope

Codeword (Page 16)

Crossword (Page 30)

PUZZLE ANSWERS

Quiz (Page 20)

1 Yellow2.Agnes3. Head teacherof Grange Hill4. Dr. Evil (in the AustinPowers films)5. Mistress6. The Magic Roundabout7. Paddington Bear8. A hedgehog9. Flowers10. Grumpy and Happy.

Childrens (Page 55)

Scrambled Foods: Meat andPotato Pie, Cheeseburger,Hot Dog, Hot Chocolate,Cheese and Ham PastyThree items: Meat andPotato Pie (£2.40) HotChocolate (£1.57)and Ham and CheesePasty (£2.38)Hot Dogs: A and F areexactly the same.


February Half Term Crash Course16th-20th February, Thatcham• Non-swimmers & Improvers from 3 1/2 yrs• Snorkelling & Diving• Advanced & Club level swimmers• 6 children per class• • Teachers DBS checked• Term & Holiday courses available

[email protected] │ www.swimlessons.co.uk

localrate( )01635 201410

CHILDREN’S SWIMMING LESSONS

ALLENOVA SCHOOL OF DANCINGBALLET |TAP | JAZZ |MODERN |NATIONAL |DISCO

HIP HOPSTREETDANCE |ADULTCLASSES

Classes held in THATCHAM, NEWBURY, TILEHURST and READING

*NEW 'ELITE'DANCEWEARSHOPNOWOPEN*

Special Baby Classes (from 2½ years)Complete Dance, Drama and Singing Courses (on Saturday)

Examinations taken: RAD, ISTD, IDTAM, NATDPrincipal Miss Allen LRAD, ARAD, FISTD, PGC(A)

Dance Adjudicator for the British Federation and All England Dance CompetitionGraded examiner of the Royal Academy of Dance.

FREE TRIAL LESSONWhen you mention Thatcham Connections

Telephone: 01635 201701 or email: [email protected] www.allenova.co.ukto book your FREE TRIAL LESSON

Est.1985


Handy NumbersEmergency Community Responders 0800 587 0207Police/Emergency Dial 999 or 112Thames Valley Police 101 British Gas Emergency 0800 111 999Thames Water Emergency 0845 9200 888Southern Electric Emergency 0845 770 8090Royal Berks Ambulance NHS 0118 9365500Royal Berks Fire & Rescue 0118 945 2888

Post OfficesCold Ash (last posting 4.20pm) 01635 588300Hermitage (last posting 4.30pm) 01637 200276Tesco, Northfield Road 01635 873251The Co-op, 54 The Broadway 01635 863223Woolhampton (Last posting 4.45pm) 0118 971 3729Yattendon (last posting 4pm) 01635 201236

SchoolsBrockhurst & Marlston 01635 200293Downe House School 01635 200286Elstree School 0118 971 3302Francis Baily 01635 862188Kennet 01635 862121Parsons Down Infant & Nursery 01635 862475Parsons Down Junior 01635 866700Spurcroft Primary 01635 871541St Finians Cold Ash 01635 865925St Marks Cold Ash 01635 862600Thatcham Park C of E 01635 870950Trinity 01635 41373Whitelands Park Primary 01635 862517Yattendon Primary School 01635 201397

Chemists

Boots, Thatcham 01635 864423 Medical PracticeLloyds Pharmacy, 01635 868538 Burdwood Ctre Lloyds Pharmacy, 01635 863334 Crown Mead Lloyds Pharmacy, 01635 869244 Kingsland Ctre

Supermarkets Tesco, Northfield Rd 0845 0269402

The Co-op (24 hrs) 01635 588300 at Texaco Garage

The Co-op Broadway 01635 865052

The Co-op Burdwood Centre 01635 869701

The Co-op Dunston Park 01635 865011

Waitrose, The Broadway 01635 868113

Yattendon Stores 01635 201236

Hospitals West Berkshire Community 01635 273300 Hospital (Minor Injuries Only)

Royal Berkshire Hospital, 0118 322 5111 Reading

Medical Practitioners Thatcham Medical Practice, 01635 867171 Bath Rd

Burdwood Surgery 01635 868006

Emergency Only 01635 866169

Out of Hours Doctor 0118 978 7811

Helping Services A.A. 0845 7697555

Cruse Bereavement Care 01635 523573

Newbury & District Cancer 01635 31542 Care Trust

Childline 0800 1111

PALS 0118 932 3799

Royal British Legion 01635 867621

RSPCA 08705 555999

Victim Support 0845 30 30 900

Library 01635 86604

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

Citizens Advice Bureau

West Berks CAB, 01635 516605 at Thatcham Health Centre

Helpline for Carers 01635 864245

Client Advice Line 0844 4779980

Travel

Rail Enquiries 08457 484950

Newbury Buses 01635 567500

Other Important Numbers

B.T. Fault Line 0800 800 151

Fly Tipping, to report 01635 519080

KATS 08443 105040

Thatcham Connections 0118 9886070

Thatcham Photographic Club 01635 865516

Vet: O’Gormon Slater Main 01635 868382

DVLA Swansea 0300 7906801

Recycling

Hermitage Garden Centre, 01635 200 442 (glass, textiles, books)

Kingsland Centre Car-park adjacent to Waitrose (paper, glass, mixed plastics, textiles, cans)

Household Waste Recycling Centre (opposite St Gabriel’s School)

Term Dates 2014 - 2015• Term 1 - Wednesday 3rd September 2014 - Thursday 23rd October 2014 (Holiday: Friday 24h October 2013 - Monday 3rd November 2014)

• Term 2 - Tuesday 4th November 2014 - Friday 19th December 2014 (Holiday: Monday 22nd December 2013 - Friday 5th January 2015)

• Term 3 - Tuesday 6th January 2014 - Friday 13th February 2015(Holiday: Monday 16th February 2015 - Monday 20th February 2015)

• Term 4 - Monday 23rd February 2015 - Thursday 2nd April 2015 (Holiday: Friday 03rd April 2015 - Monday 20th April 2015)

• Term 5 - Tuesday 21st April 2015 - Friday 22nd May 2015 (Holiday: Monday 25h May 2014 - Friday 29th May 2015)

• Term 6 - Monday 1st June 2015 - Wednesday 22nd July 2015

In Service Day - Tuesday 2nd September 2014 will be an INSET DAY for all West Berkshire Schools



See page 61See page 61


AccountantAccountability 17T.C. Accounting Services 8

AcupuncturistNicola Gibbs 30

Amateur Theatrical SocietyKATS 3

BarnsThe Barn Partnership 7

BlindsSmart Blinds 10

Boarding KennelsFoxhold 16

BuildersA Thompson 12Falkland Builders 25

Caring AgencyCare at Home 30

Car MaintenanceA-Z Autoparts 27Halfway Garage 27Motech 10Pegasus 25

Carpenter/JoinerLiege Carpentry 16Roger Fisher 8

Cats ProtectionNewbury Cats Protection 8

CharityThe Newbury & DistCancer Care Trust 14

Children - Including BabiesGR Swimming School 59Jubilee Day Nursery 57Monkey Music 58Thatcham Children Centre 61

Chimney LiningKP Voller 35

Chimney SweepPC Dollin 34

CleaningMy Home 63

Cleaning & IroningPlatinum Cleaning 30

CoachingThe Margaret Spencer 11Practice

ComputersSarah Sladen 17

Curtains & SoftFurnishingsIndigo Designs 8

Dancing SchoolAllenova School of Dancing 59One Step Ahead 14

DecoratorAmor Decorators 51PC Decorating 8J Thompson 49

DogsCanine Hydrotherapy 19

Dog GroomerDapper Dogs 19

DrainsDrain & Able 22

ElectricianCurrent Connection 49Home Electrics 25

Estate AgentsBuzz Properties 15

FencingCrookham Sawmills 25

FitnessZumba & Pilates 56

FlooringLaws Floors 6

FloristButtercups & Daisies 11

Football ClubCold Ash 58

Funeral DirectorsGeoffrey Church 43Turner Brothers 10

FurniturePine and Oak 2

Gardening ServicesA4 Gardening ServicesAJC ServicesBack to the Fuchsia 36Crookham Sawmills 25JPH Forestry 35Kalehurst 36Lawn Force 34

GutteringCD Guttering 22

HandymanPeter Kirkham 13Martin Newman 23

HairdresserKoo’s Hair Designs 31

HealthThe Life Centre 47

LocksmithCap Security 10Locksmark 22Wyse 43Logs 8

NailsHouse of Nails 20

Oven CleaningCookerburra 8

Pet CarerPet Angels 21

Pest ControlControl Services Limited 42

PhotographerFiona Cue Photographer

Picture FramerInner Piece 11

PilatesLorraine 56

PlumberAJ BosleyThatcham & Newbury 22

Maintenance ServicesPaul Worsley 7

Podiatrist/ChiropodyTreat your Feet 14

RestaurantThe Coach & Horses 20

RooferA Thompson 27

Sand and GravelRivar Sand and Gravel 34Signs 49

SolicitorGardner Leader 9/64

Storage - secureThe Barn Store 58Tai Chi 48Jo Dunn

Tax AdviceTax Assist 43

Theatre SchoolTheatre School 56

VetDonnington Grove 19

Web DesignDeborah Taylor 45

Window CleanerP.D.D. Services 8

INDEX

3537

18

5

Logs

Signs

Tai Chi



Call Phil Ryder on01635 873911

for a FREE estimate

Call Phil Ryder on01635 873911

for a FREE estimate

Friendly, fully trained team

Flexible cleaning services(weekly, fortnightly, monthly)

Spring cleans, one-off blitz All cleaning products &equipment provided

Your clean is fully insured &guaranteed

[email protected]

No time forhousework?We’ll clean yourhome to the

highest standard!


UrsulaAitken, Stable 5, Gravelly Bridge Farmhouse, Grazeley, Reading RG7 1LGTel: 0118 9886070 email: [email protected] www.thatchamconnections.co.uk

Thatcham Connections - Issue 49

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Transcript of Thatcham Connections - Issue 49