Thatcham Connections Issue 50

Issue 50: April – May 2015

Local Services forYou

The Beautyof Blinds

The BlackbirdCafé

NaomiHouse

www.thatchamconnections.co.uk

Please mention Thatcham Connections when responding to advertisements2

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

Listen very carefully...I will say zis only once!

‘Allo, ‘Allo is presented by speciAl ArrAngement with sAmUel French ltdbUcklebUry memoriAl hAll . Upper bUcklebUry

5th - 8th AUgUst 2015 . 7.30pm . mAtinee sAtUrdAy 8th AUgUst 2.30pmtickets £10 inclUdes sUpper . bAr AvAilAble

tickets AvAilAble Fromwww.kAts.org.Uk / 01635 869 893

[email protected]

A comedy by Jeremy lloyd & dAvid croFt

‘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 am told that preoccupation withweather is a British trait but althoughI’m not exactly ‘in the pink’ I am muchhappier now that we have longer daysand the sting in the wind is lessening.I hope you are feeling the benefit too!

Last July we had a fire in our home.We were away for only one night andcame back to an oil filled kitchen.Theresult of all this is that we now havea cleaner and brighter kitchen thanever before (30 previous years sawno full-scale cleaning or updating)Theextra good part to all of this is that wenow have new blinds adorning ourwindow frames - they are plain creamroller blinds (from Smart Blinds!) andmy goodness they are smart - andbeautiful too.We are thrilled with them.

By dint of the same reason, all ourprecious photographs and collages wereaffected by the oil. However, Nuala atInner Piece, came to the rescue and theynow also look pristine and eye-catching.

Several months ago, a friend of mine hadtalked to me aboutThe Blackbird Caféin Bucklebury (which is next door to theBladebone Inn, see page 35) and howtrendy - but equally what good value - itwas. A few weeks ago, the same friendinvited me to have a cup of soup and acoffee as a mid-morning pick me up. Inmy opinion, this is a gem in a crown!I hope you can find the excuse to doexactly what I did and go and sampleit. (Please don’t forget to say you hadheard about it inThatcham Connections!)Opposite is a gift shop selling veryunusual items - so I have now done allthe present buying I need for the nextfew months! I may be coming across asbeing too clever by half - apologies if so.I do, however, recommend you crossthe road and see what you think of it.

Lastly, I do hope you will find this issueinteresting.. I have much enjoyed puttingit together. Special thanks to everyonein the team - that’s you - together withour loyal distributors and advertisers.

Codeword 15

TheBeautyofBlinds 12

StrictlySparkle 15

Quiz 20

Recipe 26

OpenStudios 28

AreyoulivingonaLonelyplanet 31

BookReview 34

GardeningFeature 40/41

MiniCrypticpuzzle 42

Wordsearch 46

UsingPattern 50

What’sonintheCommunity 52

Childrens’Challenge 55

NaomiHouse 56

Index 62

NEXT ISSUE - COVERING June, July andAugust 2015Copy - ready for print - deadline: Friday 29th May 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

Visit: www.lawsfloors.com “Always striving to go that extra mile”

LawsFloors

(office) 01491 684020 (mobile) 07834 723942(email) [email protected]

Our prices really are very competitive as we have very little overheads and cancut out themiddleman, which is howwemanage to beat most other quotes.

We are suppliersand fitters of

CARPETS,VINYLS, WOODS,KARNDEAN &SAFETY FLOORING,covering theDomestic,Commercial andIndustrial Sectors.

We cover Thatcham and the surrounding villages.

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


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. DECORATINGPaul Coulson

Tel: 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

SewTayloredBespoke Christening WearCommissions undertaken

Sew [email protected]

Tracey Taylor01635 [email protected]

P.D.D

Services Est. 10 Years

ProfessionalChimney Sweep

Tel: 01635 871885Mobile: 07885 105 006

• Brush and Vacuum• Pots, Cowls, Caps & Birdguards Fitted•Chimney Stacks Repaired• Brick Fireplaces• Fully Insured Contact: P Dollin

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A landmark ruling in the Courtof Appeal is expected to impactthe award of maintenancepayments in future divorces.Mrs Wright who looks after the couple’syoungest daughter, did not work whenshe and Mr Wright divorced in 2008.When the marriage ended Mrs Wrightreceived a large financial settlement.

Last year, Mr Wright sought a reduction in themaintenance payments arguing that it was notfair to support his ex-wife indefinitely whilst shemade “no effort whatsoever to seek work.”

The judge agreed and told Mrs Wrightto get a job like “vast numbers of otherwomen with children,” and ordered forpersonal maintenance payments to cease,with a tailing off over a five year period.

The case was appealed but Lord JusticePritchard upheld this ruling, identifyingthat “there is a general expectation that,

once children are in year two [at school],mothers can begin part time work andmake a financial contribution.”

This decision indicates that divorcees withchildren over seven should be working. It showsa shift in judges’ decisions where spousalmaintenance is no longer a meal ticket for life.

It is predicted that the approach will bereplicated across the UK and that thechildren’s primary carer, who may not havepreviously worked, should now contributefinancially. It sends a clear message thatupon separation, where it is possible, bothparties should work to some extent.

Whilst this may not be possible in everyscenario, the Matrimonial Causes Act1973 does encourage the court to bringa married couples’ financial ties to anend at the earliest opportunity.

This direction will also bring English law moreinto line with the law in Scotland and Europe.In Scotland, maintenance payments cannot beawarded for a period longer than three years,except in exceptional circumstances. Lastyear, Baroness Deech, submitted a privatemember’s bill, Divorce (Financial Provision) Bill2013-2014, to Parliament. One of the draft bill’ssuggestions is that spousal maintenance inthe UK should also be limited to three years.

However the Wright case does not align witha Supreme court decision in March whichallowed an ex wife to pursue financial claimsagainst her ex 20 years after divorce. At thetime of separation there were few assets butnow the husband is a millionaire. The fact thatthe majority of his wealth has been acquiredpost separation shows that there is no timelimit in applying for a financial remedy.

By Nicola Brocklehurst, solicitor in the FamilyTeam at Gardner Leader solicitors based inNewbury, Thatcham and Maidenhead.

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

Gardner LeaderSpousal maintenance - no longer a meal ticket for life?


Air Conditioning

FFFUNERALUNERALUNERAL DDDIRECTORSIRECTORSIRECTORS&&&MMMEMORIALEMORIALEMORIAL CCCONSULTANTSONSULTANTSONSULTANTS

15 Hampton RoadNewburyBerkshireRG14 6DB

Tel: 01635 41615Fax: 01635 522050

Dignity Funerals Ltd. A company registered in England

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 9 11 5 17 25 11 9 1 10 7 11 20

19 21 9 4 19 11 10

17 13 22 19 19 2 19 7 19 9 17 19

3 8 16 19 10 17

20 11 18 3R

9 11T

5O

3 9 10 19 17

7 10 19 5 5 24

19 1 26 6 9 11 14 21 23 3 22

26 19 19 25 19 6

3 7 19 9 15 21 19 20 8 10 1 6

22 19 11 19 9 20

17 14 20 10 5 26 10 17 20 10 12 19

19 3 3 10 17 17 9

26 19 14 11 9 5 19 26 5 21 10 17

See page 57 for Answers


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


Vertical blinds areextremely popularin conservatories atthis time of year.

Blackout rollerblinds or Shuttersfor bedrooms dueto light morningsand evenings.

There are a hugenumber of coloursto choose from.

The Beauty of Blinds


FREE

*FITTING* FREE

*MEASURING*


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?

TREAT YOUR FEETPodiatry/Chiropody

The Newbury Clinic on MondaySpire Ridge, Midgham on Wednesday

Chapel Row Surgery on Friday

Professional treatments for a variety offoot problems including:Corns/hard skinIngrown toenailsDiabetic feetFlat feetThickened toenailsCracked heels

Emma Barrow, Podiatrist BSc(hons)MChS HCPC registered(no home visits)

www.treatyourfeet.org01635 2991490776 [email protected]


With an average audience of10.7 million viewers for the 11thseries, it’s clear that StrictlyCome Dancing is still one ofBritain’s favourite TV shows.In addition to its UK success,the BBC has sold the format toother countries and the show- renamed ‘Dancing with theStars’ for overseas audiences- is now watched by over 250million people worldwide.So what is ballroom dancingand why is has it proved soaddictive, not only for Strictly’shigh profile participants but forthe many thousands who takepart in social and competitivedance events throughout theworld?The term “Ballroom Dancing”refers to a set of partnerdances that have their rootsin Europe, North Americaand Latin America. In Europeformal dances began toreceive recognition in the late16th century, when a Frenchwriter called Jehan Tabourotpublished a study of the socialdances of the day, includingpopular medieval dances suchas the pavane, galliard andbranie.The French enthusiasm fordance continued stronglythroughout the 17th and18th centuries, when LouisXIV decided to found a royal

academy of music and danceand ordered officials to draw upprecise rules for the executionof every dance.During this period the Minuetwas the height of fashion.This dance required multiplepartners, holding hands ata respectful distance, tomove together in formation.In the early 19th century theintroduction of the waltz,which required partners tomove independently, facingeach other in a ‘closed hold’,initially caused outrage as itwas thought to encouragescandalous intimacy.The waltz sounded the death-knell of the old-fashionedsequence dances and by theearly 20th century the pattern ofmodern ballroom dancing hadbegun to emerge. A new waveof music, inspired by blackjazz musicians in America,encouraged the developmentof a range of new dancesincluding the Charleston.The public was hungry tolearn these new routines andso a number of enterprisingprofessional dance teachersmade it their business toanalyse, write down, publishand teach the new moves. Ifpopular dance was to flourishit was essential that peopleshould be able to learn the right

steps, and establishments suchas the famous Arthur MurraySchool of Dance in the USA ledthe way: bringing dance to themasses.This intense interest in ballroomdance eventually led tocompetitive events, and the firstunofficial world championshiptook place in 1909. Nowadaysreferred to as “Dancesport”,competitive ballroom dancing isrecognised by the InternationalOlympic Committee.If you’ve been well and trulybitten by the ‘Strictly’ bug, yournext step could be to try outsome of the dances yourself.Learning to dance is the idealway to keep fit and ballroomdancing is suitable for peopleof all ages. It’s also a greatway to meet new people whoshare your passion. Visit www.dancenearyou.co.uk to find theaddress of a dance studio inyour area.Ballroom dance requires a highdegree of skill and versatility.It’s attractive and exciting,but it’s also enormous fun.‘Strictly’ fever is sweeping thenation for good reason andgiven the renewed interest inballroom dancing at all levels,it’s a great time to get out thereand experience that addictivedancefloor glamour for yourself.

HobbiesIt’s Time To Get ThatStrictly Sparkle

By Kate McLelland


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:

Ladies and Gents Hairdressing(for all ages)

Family discounts

Koo’sHair DesignsI have 20 years experienceI was trained in London - with Tigi and Toni and Guy

Mobile 0790 8930682Based Dunston ParkThatcham

MY AIM IS TO:

I work with children also - I am the mother of a young child

Cutting& StylingExpert

Colour& PermingSpecialist

• Offer expert advice and hair care to theyoung and the not so young equally alike!

• Help you manage your hair better!

• Make beautiful hair more beautiful!

• Make difficult hair less difficult!

• Work with you in understanding your hairand styling requirements.

• Be friendly, respectful of your home,flexible, discreet and reliable.

Mobile hairdresser offers expert Hair Care


ThatchamTennis Club

Based adjacent toTheMemorial Hall, Brownsfield Road,Thatcham, Berks. (Behind the War Memorial on the Bath Road).

Chairperson: Jan Stowell 01635 874878Secretary: Vanessa Westacott 07917 710927

We are a long standing small club,where our members all enjoy theirtennis on the two Tarmacadam courts.Thatcham Tennis Club is affiliated to the LTAwhich means club members also become aBritish Tennis Member, providing a number ofbenefits including entry into the club ballot forWimbledon tickets; a player rating, if desired; aTeam Card (which is a way of collecting pointswhen you shop which you can redeem againsttennis equipment) and discounts on tennistickets (e.g. Davis Cup)… to name a few.

We have different types of membership available:Family (2 adults and any children under 18);Adult;OAP and Junior (11-18 & under 10). Forpartner/family membership a court key purchaseis available to enable you to play outside clubplaying times. (Not available for single members.)

We are hoping to introduce coaching sessionsby independent coaches in the near future butin the meantime, why not come along and joinour members in a friendly game of tennis. Alllevels are welcome and you will be sure of awarm, friendly greeting, whatever the weather.We hold a friendly Inter-club tournamentannually for our adult members and ifsufficient interest, a junior tournament too.

Adult Club Playing Times:Tuesday &Wednesday evenings 6.00pm till

dusk and Sunday mornings 10.30am till 1.00pm.Juniors: Tuesday 4.00pm till 6.30pm orlonger depending on Adult members.

Please ring either Vanessa or Jan on thenumbers below for details of cost for all typesof membership and they will be pleasedto answer any questions and send you anapplication form and terms as requested.


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


Make an appointment today by calling Smart Oven Clean on 01635 34447www.smartovenclean.co.uk

Discounts are available whenbookingmultiple cleaning

services in one appointment.

PRICES FROM

SINGLE OVEN

£50

AGAs

£95

DOUBLE OVEN

£60

WOODBURNINGSTOVES

£25

Smart Oven Clean is an independent, family business offeringa comprehensive, specialist cleaning service in your home.Using only the latest biodegradable, environmentally friendly products we achievefantastic results and all appliances are ready for immediate use when we are finished.

We clean your ovens and hob and in addition we clean extractor hoods, BBQsand even yourwood burning stove.

Is your oven, AGA or stove in need of a clean?


Slogans1. What word comes after “inspire a” to give the official slogan

for the London 2012 Olympics?2. Which breakfast cereal has been advertised using the slogan

“keeps hunger locked up until lunch”?3. “We open governments” is the slogan of which company?4. What initiative was trialled in Northampton in 2003 and rolled out

to the rest of Britain in 2004 on the back of an advertising campaign that usedthe slogan“safety in numbers”?

5. What item appears above the slogan on most “keep calm and carry on”posters?6. With the slogan“more human than human”, the Tyrell Corporation features in

which 1980s film?7. In 1979, which country introduced a policy known as the “one-child policy”,

using slogans to advertise this that translated as “have fewer children, raisemore pigs”and“one more baby means one more tomb”?

8. “Good to the last drop” is the slogan of which coffee brand?9. In the run up to the 2014 Scottish independence referendum, the main group

campaigning for a “no”vote changed their slogan from“better together” towhat other two word phrase?

10. In which TV series might you come across a fictional drink called Buzz Cola,which has the slogan“twice the sugar, twice the caffeine”?

Thatcham Connections Slogans Quiz


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 evenings

Traditional Sunday Roasts

Lunch 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)


Draught &bottle beersBrewery ToursAND Club MeMbership

available online anDfrom our brewery shop

WEST BERKSHIRE BREWERYThe Flour BarnFrilsham Home FarmYattendon, RG18 0XT

OpenInG TIMeS:MOn – SaT10aM TO 4pM


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


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


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


FruitTiramisu

This is a simpler version of the classic Italiandessert with layers of rich mascarpone cream,coffee soaked sponge fingers, chocolate andfresh fruit. For individual puds, cut thesponge fingers in half and use 6 smallramekin dishes or glass tumblers.

Ingredients:• 120ml cold strongblack coffee

• 3tbsp coffee liqueursuch as Tia Maria

• 14 sponge fingers• 500g mascarponecheese

• 75g caster sugar• 75ml Marsala• 300ml double cream• 75g dark chocolate,grated

• 175g strawberries,hulled and halved

• 175g freshraspberries

Serves 6

Ready in 30 mins,plus chilling

1. Mix together the black coffee and coffee liqueur in a shallowdish. Dip half the sponge fingers in the coffee mixture andarrange in the base of a glass serving bowl.

2. Place the mascarpone cheese and sugar in a large bowl and,using a wooden spoon, beat together until smooth and creamy.Gradually beat in the Marsala and the double cream.

3. Spread about one third of the mascarpone mixture over thesponge fingers in the serving bowl. Scatter over half the gratedchocolate and most of the strawberries and raspberries.Reserve the rest of the fruit in the fridge for decoration.

4. Dip the remaining sponge fingers in the rest of the coffeemixture and arrange on top of the fruit, pressing down gently.Spoon over the remaining cream mixture and use a spatulato gently level the surface. Top with the remaining gratedchocolate.

5. Cover the dish with cling film and chill for at least 3-4 hours (orovernight). To serve, remove the tiramisu from the fridge andleave to stand at room temperature for 30 minutes. Uncoverand decorate with the reserved fruit.

TIPYou can vary the fruit depending on what is available at thetime – try pitted fresh or canned cherries, orange segments orblueberries.

Cake andBake


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

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]

Tyres at discount pricesAll makes

Free 4 wheelalignment checking

Block A, Pipers Ind. Estate,PiperWay, Thatcham

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SpringMotoringWinter driving is well behind us, butspring brings its hazards too.

Iain Betson offers these driving tips toget you safely to summer.

1. Run your AC at least once a week, even inwinter. Remember, you don’t have to turnit down to a chill level that a penguin wouldlove; just make sure all is working OK. Soit will work when you really need it.

2. Check the fluid levels and, perhaps whileyou’re at it, give the bodywork a goodwash too. Get all the salt deposits off fromthe wheel arches and underneath.

3. In these months the sun is still quite lowin the sky but the glare will be gettingstronger. Don’t just rely on the sun-visor;take a pair of sunglasses with you.

4. April showers will lift all the rubber andother muck out of the tarmac, causing theroad surface to be slippery for a time –extra care will be needed when corneringor braking.

5. In springtime, we all like to get outpursuing our pastimes after the dark wintermonths. For many, this will mean usingthe roads, but not as motorists. Be awareof extra walkers, joggers, cyclists, horsesand riders

6. Winter takes its toll on road surfacesand traffic makes a small pothole bigger.It doesn’t just make for a bumpy ride;hitting a pothole can throw the steeringout of alignment and, if you have alloywheels, crack the spokes. Do your best toavoid potholes, but not at the expense ofswerving dangerously to avoid them.


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Most people will experienceloneliness at some time in theirlives, according to “The LonelySociety”: a report published bythe Mental Health Foundation(MHF). The report, basedon data provided by overtwo thousand people, foundthat 48% of those surveyedbelieved that Britain isbecoming a lonelier place.It’s a typically British trait,but many of us would rathersuffer in silence than admit weneed some human company.Not wanting to be a burdento others, pride in our ownself-reliance and fear of beingstigmatised can keep is inisolation and prevent us fromreaching out to others.These days, when more ofus live in small apartments,work at home and shop andsocialise online, face-to-facesocial interaction is becomingincreasingly rare. Older peopleespecially can feel moreisolated, particularly if theysuffer from ill health or can’tafford to go out.So what’s the best way toovercome loneliness?Reach out to someoneelseThe saying “there’s alwayssomeone worse off than you”has become a bit of a cliché,but when it comes to loneliness

and isolation it’s very likelyto be true. Over a third of theindividuals surveyed in theMFH report said they had aclose friend or relative who was“very lonely”, so a logical firststep would be to start with thepeople that you know.We stiff-upper-lip Brits oftenpretend that everything is allright when the opposite isactually true, so if an isolatedfriend or relative tells you theyare fine, don’t let that put youoff from suggesting a get-together.If you don’t have any personalcontacts who are in needof your companionship,then you can always spreadthe net a little wider. Thecampaigning and lobbyingorganisation Campaign toEnd Loneliness doesn’t recruitvolunteers directly but youcan visit their website at www.campaigntoendloneliness.org to find information aboutvolunteering opportunities.Get a new job or shareyour skillsIf you are approachingretirement and dreadingthe day when you’ll swapthe friendly banter of yourco-workers for the dubiouspleasures of daytime television,you will find an outlet forthe skills you have acquiredduring your working life at

http://ageinginnovators.org.Opportunities include LifeRe-imagined: a web platformthat helps people re-evaluatetheir skills and pursue newambitions, and VintageCommunities, which bringspeople together to find localsolutions to local problems.Find a new loveWhatever your age andcircumstances it’s still possibleto find love. These days onlinedating is accepted as one ofthe best ways to find a partner,particularly one who sharesyour beliefs and interests.While it’s sensible to keep aneye out for people who maybe less than honest, don’t beput off by scare stories in thepress: internet dating is oneof the fastest growing, mostsuccessful online businessesof the 21st century. If you’restill not sure, visit www.top10bestdatingsites.co.ukto read reviews written bymembers of the public whohave successfully used thesedating sites.Of course, you may need abit of courage to get started- particularly if you’ve lostconfidence in your social skills- but once you’ve rediscoveredthe art of connecting withothers, you’ll wonder why youlingered so long on that lonelyplanet!

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Practical Magic - AliceHoffmanWhen the whole town’s beenagainst you for two hundredyears, you might want to thinkabout moving. The generationsof Owens women though, whoget the blame for everything thatgoes wrong in the town, seem torevel in the powers of witchcraftthe locals think they wield. Allthat is, except for sisters Gillianand Sally, who want nothingmore than to break the cycle andescape, one way or another. Buthaving magic running throughyour veins is a hard thing to pullagainst, and time and time againthey are drawn back to eachother.The Night Circus - ErinMorgensternLe Cirque des Rêves (TheCircus of Dreams) only comesalive between dusk and dawn,disappearing from view asthe sunlight emerges. Set inVictorian London this is a realtreat of a novel, touched byfairytale and sure to hold youspellbound. You never quiteknow when or where the circusis going to appear, as if fromnowhere, with its ice gardensand cloud maze and whirling,twirling acrobats of the night.A few know the secret of thecircus and have formed theirown magic circle, so to speak.It’s a wonderful, slightly surrealand other-worldly experiencewrapped up in a book.

One Hundred Years of Solitude- Gabriel Garcí¬a MárquezThis acclaimed novel tells thestory of José Arcadio Bunedia,founding father of Macondo - acity of mirrors that first appearsto him in his dreams. José, alongwith his wife and cousin leaveRiohacha in Colombia and setoff in search of a better life andthe utopia that is Macondo, andthe story chronicles the rise andsubsequent fall of this mythicalland. The novel covers everyconceivable facet of human life,love and death with the searchfor peace and truth being theultimate goal. It’s an incrediblenovel from a Nobel Prize-winningwriter.The Tempest - WilliamShakespeareOn a remote island, the formerDuke of Milan, Prosperouses his powers of sorcery towreak havoc and right wrongs.Shakespeare’s beloved talebegins with a violent andthrashing storm at sea, conjuredup by Prospero in order toshipwreck his usurping brother,Antonio along with the connivingKing Alonso on his desert island.Prospero and his teenagedaughter, Miranda have spentthe last twelve years on theisland, with only a cheeky spiritAriel and a savage creaturecalled Caliban for company.There’s love at first sight, aspirit, a monster and finally,redemption. Fantastic.

Like Water for Chocolate -Laura EsquivelThey say that the way to a man’sheart is through his stomach andthat’s certainly the case whenyou’ve got a secret ingredientof magic to throw into the mix.The story is set in Mexico at theturn of the century and focuseson the De La Garza family. Tita,as the youngest member ofthe all-female household, mustabide by Mexican tradition andlook after their mother until shedies. She is forbidden to marrybut falls in love with Pedro andher seduction takes the formof her magical dishes. But, thepath of true love never did runsmooth and he marries her sisterinstead. Of course, the storydoesn’t quite end there.The Magicians - Lev GrossmanImagine a slightly more angst-ridden Harry Potter and youhave Quentin Coldwater. He’s ahigh school senior and a geniusby all accounts, but he is asmiserable as sin. That is, untilhe gets accepted at a college ofmagic to begin his education inconjuring and sorcery. Suddenly,he thinks he’s found his niche.But with college comes allmanner of other complicationsassociated with student life.Quentin longs for the world ofthe fantasy novels he used toread as a kid, about a magicalland called ‘Fillory’. If only itwere real he might truly findhappiness.

April is the time for being fooled and there’snothing like a bit of magic to turn you intoan unwitting mark. With their wizardry andsecret societies, magicians have been holdingus spellbound for years. The illusions arepermeating the pages and here are somenovels where a touch of trickery has ensureda page-turner.

Practically MagicBOOK REVIEW


Opening HoursMon-Tues 8.30am to 4.30pmWed 8.30am to 2.30pm

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Keep AKeep AKeep AnnntststsAway FromAway FromAway FromYour HomeYour HomeYour HomeNever crush an invading Ant! They leave aNever crush an invading Ant! They leave aNever crush an invading Ant! They leave ascent when they are killed or injured ; thisscent when they are killed or injured ; thisscent when they are killed or injured ; thisscent signals many, many more ants toscent signals many, many more ants toscent signals many, many more ants tocome to the areacome to the areacome to the area... IfIfIf you do crush one, cleanyou do crush one, cleanyou do crush one, cleanthe area with a wipe or disinfectantthe area with a wipe or disinfectantthe area with a wipe or disinfectant...

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I’m a great fan of homegrown vegetables,particularly as growing myown allows me to choose toeat only organically grownfruit and vegetables, whichare free from chemicalpesticides. Those of us witha good sized vegetableplot are lucky, but what ifyou have only a tiny patiogarden or backyard? Lackof open ground does notmean that you have to stickto growing flowers - you canbrighten up your backyardand your supper tablewith some good lookingvegetables, home grown incontainers.It is important to use largecontainers. Smaller onesmay look fine but mostvegetables need an evenlymoist compost around theirroots at all times, and so alarger volume of compostis much easier to lookafter. They will need to bepositioned in a sunny spotas vegetables won’t cropwell in a gloomy position.Growing bags will do butthey don’t exactly look

good. In addition, theyoften seem to contain prettypoor compost and, when itcomes to keeping growingbags adequately watered,they are nothing short ofa nightmare. If you wantsomething which really looksgood, then large flower potsor planters are the bestbet. You can use terracotta,plastic or glazed pots, whichcan always be used forflowers at a later date if youwish. Good drainage is vital,and so make sure that thecontainers are well suppliedwith drainage holes, andthat you have a layer ofbroken pots on top.When it comes to compostI find that either a standardmulti-purpose or a multi-purpose compost mixedwith a loam based compostworks well, producinggood crops and being fairlyeasy to maintain. You canincorporate some controlledrelease fertiliser granulesor do as I do and just feedregularly with a liquid feed.There are lots of differentvegetables that can be

grown in containers butsometimes getting the rightvariety can make all thedifference to how well theyperform. Check labels orseed catalogues and you’llfind that those particularlywell suited to life in a potare described as so. If youlike home grown beansyou can use any variety ofdwarf French bean, or ifyou prefer, a runner. Theminiature runner, ‘Hestia’,has pretty red and whiteflowers and doesn’t need asupport to climb. This year,I’m also going to grow somestandard varieties of runneror climbing French beansin pots with supports. I’vechosen a willow obelisk orwigwam (readily availablein garden centres) andbamboo canes in the other.When covered in flower itwill look really striking.

Cucumbers can be grown inpots; choose a variety suchas ‘Patio Pick’ which shouldmanage to crop well despiteits small size. Providedyou have a large and deepcontainer then courgettes

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are also well worth a try, anddo remember to keep themreally well fed.If you like hot pepper andhave a sheltered, warm spotthen you can give these ago as well. I’m trying a few,including the crazy looking,heavy cropping ‘Medusa’and the pretty but hot ‘Etna’.Salad crops, in particularthe many attractive redand pink leaved varietiesof lettuce, can all begrown in a growing bag orother container, and areguaranteed to look good.For some really wackycolour try growing the rich-red stemmed Ruby Chardor ‘Bright Lights’ chard withstems in pink, orange, red,yellow and white.

When it comes tomaintenance, crops in potsare basically the sameas crops in open ground.The main difference is thatanything growing in a pot ismore reliant on TLC as itsroots will not be able to tapinto the further reaches ofthe soil to find moisture andnutrients. Plenty of food andwater is a must, and I tendto use a high potash liquidtomato feed, which works atreat.If you want to keep thecontents of newly filled potsfree from slug and snailattacks, try using sticky-backed copper tape stuckin a complete ring aroundthe top of the pot or planter– these slimy pests hatecrossing it.

Once everything is growingwell and cropping, don’tforget to pick patio vegregularly if you want theplants to keep cropping.Visit Pippa’s website www.pippagreenwood.com for‘Grow Your Own with PippaGreenwood’ veg growingsystem, biologicalcontrols, fleece,copper tapeand lots morebesides.


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©puzzlepress.co.uk

1 2 3 4 5 6

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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.

We are delighted to welcome two new membersto our team: Jo Saunders as our Nutritionist and

AnneMarie Smellie as our Hypnotherapist.

Maria Bird - Maria heads the team at Orchard Life - she is an IyengarYoga Teacher who has been practising and teaching yoga for the past23 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 Orchard Life and treatspatients with a variety of musculoskeletal conditions, including Back,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

Orchard Life in Midghamwww.orchardlifemidgham.co.uk

Tel: 07989 403 167or email:[email protected]

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


Your local friendly electrician Offering a reliable serviceYou can depend on.

CALLPAULON 07833248438 OR 01635 770256www.electricanthatcham.co.ukcurrentconnection@googlemail.comSilverthorne, robertsfeild,

All types of electrical workApproved domestic installerPart P registeredNew installations, ExtensionsKitchens, BathroomsFuse boards

Lighting & PowerFully InsuredNo job too Large or SmallAudio and visual installationsFault findingRewires

J. ThompsonPainting and Decorating

JosephThompsonTel: 0777 5065896

Email: [email protected]

Interior and Exterior

Domestic Repairs and Maintenance

Free Quotations

All Aspects of Decorating

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]


Pattern, like colour, can bea wonderful addition to ahome, providing characterand vitality, whether in theform of an entire, complexscheme, or simple touchessuch as a wallpapered wallor a set of cushions. Patterncan create a focal point:take a tatty old armchair,re-cover it in an oversizedprint and think of the impact,for example. Pattern canprovide subtle interestthrough a few simplepieces featuring charming,understated designs. Or itcan be the raison d’être ofan entire room, a complexcombination of patternedwalls, rugs, fabrics andaccessories.Using pattern can seemtricky, but it’s not actuallyas complex as it may seem.It’s best to start by workingout where you stand interms of pattern predilection.Simple, graphic motifs inmuted colours or naturalisticdesigns in vivid shades?Large scale or small?Historical prints or modern?

And would you like just adash of pattern to enlivenan otherwise plain room,or a striking combination ofpatterns for an all-over look?You may own the perfectinspiration already: anantique quilt, a painted vase,a print from an old book ora favourite shirt, perhaps.Look through magazinesand books for further ideas,and borrow ideas fromother people’s homes, oreven from fashionablebars, restaurants or shops.Combining designs canbe as simple as choosinga floral and a stripe in onecolourway, or it may involvemore time and effort spenton putting together just theright elements from a varietyof sources. Wherever youfind your patterned fabric,however, try to obtainlarge samples and, beforespending a great deal ofmoney, hang them in placeto gain a really good idea oftheir final effect.There’s no denying that it’seasier to go down the simple

route with pattern, and limitit to appearing in just one ortwo places. But combininga variety of patterns, thoughharder to get right, can betremendously exciting andfull of impact. Whateveritems you’re puttingtogether, there are someguidelines that will helpmake the best of them.First, when mixing patternwith pattern or, indeed,pattern with plain, a reallygood colour match isimportant. This will hang thewhole effect together. Standback and assess whichcolours are most visible inyour patterns, then aim tocombine one main colourwith two or three highlights.After working out acomfortable colour balance,think about scale. In biggerrooms, you can afford to usevery large-scale patternsfor impact, while smallerrooms are generally bettersuited to medium- or small-scale patterns – unless youwant to make a particularfeature out of a tiny room

Using Patternto PerfectionFrom the subtlest of stripes

to the boldest of modern

floral prints, pattern offers

infinite choices to suit any

space.By Katherine Sorrell

FEATURE


Amor Decorators40 years

experience

• Interior & ExteriorPainting & Decorating

• Wallpapering

• Coving

AmorDecorators

Tel: 07747 051117or 07500 [email protected]

& qualifiedNVQwww.amordecorators.co.uk

by blasting it with a giantpattern.Second: When combiningpatterns, aim to vary theirscales – to avoid monotony– without going to extremes.Dramatic changes of scaletend to look strange. Don’tforget that very smallpatterns are only reallynoticeable close up; froma distance they look likea plain colour. Thoughsometimes this can be adisappointment, it may alsobe an advantage, as a tinypattern can be used as alovely addition to a schemethat calls for a decorativebut subtle element.Third: density. Loose,open patterns give a visual‘breather’, while intricatepatterns with closely placed

designs have more drama.As with scale, when usingseveral types of patterntogether, a variety ofdensities gives balance andinterest.Fourth: design. Abstract,figurative, retro, traditional,modern – you nameit, there’s somethingfor everyone. Avoid anincongruous mix by limitingyour pattern combinationsto designs that originatefrom the same era orstylistic aesthetic. A delicateGeorgian floral is unlikely tosit well next to a Seventiesabstract geometric, forexample, but will lookgreat when combined withanother pretty, spriggyfloral of whatever origin.Remember that plainsand stripes are brilliant at

co-ordinating with moreintricate patterns.And finally: cheat! If youlove the idea of pattern butare really stuck, check outmanufacturers’ wallpaperand fabric pattern books,which show you how tomix and match with ease.Keep experimenting andpersevere. Success withpattern is simply a caseof trial and error, puttingdifferent things together andchanging them around untilyou’re totally happy withthe results – a coherent,confident look that has greatpattern panache.Image: In this warm and cosyscheme, a large peony pattern ismixed with checks and stripes inmatching and co-ordinating colours.All furniture and fabrics from LauraAshley (0871 983 5999; lauraashley.com).


WHAT’S ON INTHE COMMUNITY:

10 APRIL 2015

BBOWT - LINkINGTHe LANdSCAPe:eveNING BAT WALk

THE ROWBARgE PUB CAR PARK,

WOOLHAMPTON, BERKSHIRE, Rg7 5SH,

7:15PM - 9:15PM, FREE/DONATION (£3)

This is an evening walk round the beautiful

lakes on the Wasing Estate led by James

Shipman, local bat enthusiast. BOOKINg

ESSENTIAL Find out about the life of bats,

what they eat, how they fly in the dark and

hopefully, see and hear several species as

well as other wildlife that emerges at dusk.

Suitable for everyone, this is a gentle stroll

enjoying the spring beauty of this peaceful

nature reserve. The walk will be 2-3 miles

in total and will finish about 9.15pm.

11 APRIL 2015

BkO SATuRdAy &yOuTH LeAGue eveNT

RUSHALL WOODS NEAR BRADFIELD,

Rg7 6DN,10:30AM - 11:30AM

Registration: 10:00am - 11:00am, Adult

members £4, non-members £5 Junior

members £1.50, non-members £2.50

Emit hire £1 adults, juniors free

Orienteering event suitable for all agesShort Blue, Light green, Orange, Yellow,White courses Entry on day only

18 APRIL 2015

PLANT SuPPORTSFOR THe GARdeN

THE NATURE DISCOvERY CENTRE,THATCHAM, BERKSHIRE Rg19 3FU,10:00AM TO 16:00PM

Learn how to use willow to make a largesweet pea support and a smaller ‘growthrough’ plant support for plants that growup and then flop over. You will have twounique pieces to take home and graceyour garden. Suitable for beginners andthose with some experience of workingwith willow. Involves some stooping to floorlevel and stretching above head-height.

CONTACT TELEPHONE: 01635 874 381CALL TO CHECK LATEST TIMESOR CANCELLATIONS

19 APRIL 2015

deCORATIve WILLOWFOR THe GARdeN

NATURE DISCOvERY CENTRE,THATCHAM, BERKSHIRE, Rg19 3FU

DIARY DATES


Information sourced from www.wherecanwego.com

CONTACT TELEPHONE: 01635 874 381TO CHECK LATEST TIMES

Learn how to use willow to make adecorative hurdle, a sunflower wall hanging,or a giant sphere for your garden. You willhave at least one, probably two piecesto take home and be the envy of all yourfriends. Suitable for beginners or thosewith some experience of working withwillow. Involves some stooping to floorlevel and stretching to above head-height.

25 APRIL1915

THATCHAMWARMeMORIAL

5.45AM, ANZAC DAY DAWN SERvICE

The Thatcham Branch of the Royal BritishLegion are working with the Town Councilto organise (in modern day Turkey). Thegallipoli Campaign started at dawn on 25thApril 1915 with British troops trying to landat Cape Helles and the Australian and NewZealand Army Corps (ANZAC) aiming forgaba Tepe. They met with fierce resistancefrom Ottoman troops and neither the Britishnot the ANZACs were able to advance.Allied success in this campaign could haveweakened the Central Powers, allowingBritain and France to support Russia andsecure British strength in the Middle East.In January 1916 all troops were evacuated.More than 550,000 Allied troops participatedon land and in ships off the coast in thegallipoli Campaign. These included soldiers

and sailors from Britain, the Indian sub-continent, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland,Canada, other Commonwealth countriesand France. In total their casualties,including those killed, sustaining seriousinjuries, falling sick or missing, numberedmore than 200,000. The campaign sawa higher number of Australian and NewZealand deaths than in any previous conflict.

30 APRIL 2015

THe MeeRkATS OFMeeRkAT MANOR

SPEAKER: DAvID BELL,BRADFIELD COLLEgE, 7.15PM FOR7.30PM, TELEPHONE: 0118 964 4500

WWW.CAFESCIENTIFIqUEBRADFIELD.TICKETSOURCE.CO.UK

The Kalahari Meerkat project has beenrunning for over 20 years and has themain aim of studying different cooperativebehaviours in meerkats. These meerkats areprobably some of the most famous meerkatsin the world after starring in “MeerkatManor”, a British television programme thatpremiered in September 2005 and ran forfour series until August 2008. The series toldthe story of “the Whiskers”, one of more thana dozen families of meerkats in the KalahariDesert who were being studied as part ofa long-term field study into the ecologicalcauses and evolutionary consequencesof the cooperative nature of meerkats.

[email protected] 0118 9886070 www.thatchamconnections.co.uk 55See page 57 for Answers


One of the largestsolicitors in Berkshire,Gardner Leader,has been having abig clear out to raisemoney for its chosencharity, Naomi House,a Children’s hospicein Hampshire.

Since Christmas, staff acrossthe gardner Leader officesin Newbury, Thatcham andMaidenhead, have beenbagging up and bringinginto work all their unwanteditems. Eighty-six bags werecollected, made up of clothes,toys and household goodsamongst other things, which isexpected to raise over £2,500for Naomi House, a hospiceoffering respite care to sickchildren and their families.

gardner Leader’s office onWharf Street, Newbury raisedthe most with twenty-foursacks, bagging each employeesituated in the Wharf Streetoffice with a small bottle ofProsecco from the law firm asa ‘Thank You’ for their support.62 sacks were collectedbetween the other offices onThe Broadway, Thatcham and

in Market Place, Newbury and23 queens Street Maidenhead.

“We’re so delighted with howstaff across our offices gotso involved with doing a bitof early spring cleaning,” saidFiona Curnow, MarketingManager at gardner Leader.“We had so many bags thatthe van from Naomi Housewas stuffed full and had toreturn to the hospice to unloadbefore completing its othercollections. Each bag raisesbetween £30 and £35 so eightysix sacks should hopefullyraise a substantial amount tohelp towards supporting sickchildren and their families.”

Gardner Leader Supporting Naomi House


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

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Wordsearch (Page 46)Hidden phrase: Music is the poetry of the air: Richter

Codeword (Page 10)

Mini Cryptic (Page 42)

PUZZLE ANSWERS

Quiz (Page 20)

1. Generation2. Shreddies3.WikiLeaks4. Chip and pin (for makingsecure payments)5. A crown6. Blade Runner (thecompany makes androids)7. China8. Maxwell House9. No thanks10. The Simpsons

Childrens (Page 55)11 footballs1 Cat2 Dogs3 Toys4 Bottles, Cans & Cartons


Spring in to JubileeWe have a very busy spring time ahead at Jubilee Day Nursery with lotsof exciting events, activities and outdoor learning experiences for all.

If you would like your child to be part of the Jubilee Day Nurseryexperience then please contact Lesley on 01189 701600 [email protected], alternatively, visit websitewww.jubileedaynursery.co.uk to find out more.

Upcoming events...

Book now online forEaster and Springschool holidays at

www.jubileejets.co.uk

Summer School 2015Our tried and tested Summer School offers:

Flexible Sessions,P.E. and Phonics,Cycling Lessons (please supply own bike and helmet),Themed Days and Weeks (Princesses and Pirates, CircusWorkshop, Science Week),With lots and lots more fun, learning and playing throughoutthe six week summer holidays.

Get in contact with us if you would like to become part of our expanding team.


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

[email protected] │ www.swimlessons.co.uk01635 201410

CHILDREN’S SWIMMING LESSONS

BOOKING NOW FOR CLASSES INNEWBURY, THATCHAM OR WOODCOTE


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


See page 61See page 61


AccountantAccountability 43T.C. Accounting Services 8

AcupuncturistNicola gibbs 47

Amateur Theatrical SocietyKATS 3

BarnsThe Barn Partnership 7

BlindsSmart Blinds 13Layles Blinds 14

Boarding KennelsFoxhold 16

BreweryWest Berkshire 21

BuildersA Thompson 60Falkland Builders 49

Caring AgencyCare at Home 30

Car MaintenanceA-Z Autoparts 29Halfway garage 29Motech 10Pegasus 27StationTyres 27

Carpenter/JoinerLiege Carpentry 16Roger Fisher 8

Cats ProtectionNewbury Cats Protection 8

CharityThe Newbury & DistCancer Care Trust 45

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

Chimney LiningHeetas Engineer 37

Chimney SweepPC Dollin 8

CleaningMy Home 63

Cleaning & IroningPlatinum Cleaning 47

CoachingThe Margaret Spencer Practice 11

ComputersHome Data Recording 44

Sarah Sladen 43

Curtains & Soft FurnishingsIndigo Designs 8

Christening GownsSew Taylor 8

Dancing SchoolAllenova School of 59One Step Ahead 14

DecoratorAmor Decorators 51PC Decorating 8J Thompson 49

DigitalSF Digital 44

DrainsDrain & Able 24

Double GlazingCloud to Clear 19

ElectricianCurrent Connection 49Home Electrics 27

Estate AgentsBuzz 23

FencingCrookham Sawmills 36

FlooringLaws Floors 6

FloristButtercups & Daisies 11

Funeral Directorsgeoffrey Church 47Turner Brothers 10

FurniturePine and Oak 2

Gardening ServicesA4 gardening Services 37AJC Services 39Back to the Fuchsia 38Jim’s Mowing 41JPH Forestry 37Kalehurst 38

GutteringCD guttering 24

HandymanPeter Kirkham 18Martin Newman 25

HairdresserKoo’s Hair Designs 16

HealthOrchard Life Centre 48

LocksmithCap Security 27

Locksmark 24Wyse 45

MobilityStair Lift Specialist 30

Oven CleaningCookerburra 8Smart Oven Clean 19

Pet CarerPet Angels 22

Pest ControlControl Services Limited 42

PhotographerFiona Cue Photographer 32

Picture FramerInner Piece 11

PlumberAJ Bosley 5Thatcham & NewburyMaintenance Services 24Paul Worsley 7

Podiatrist/ChiropodyTreat your Feet 14

RestaurantThe Coach & Horses 20

RooferA Thompson 29

Sand and GravelRivar Sand and gravel 36

Stair Lift SpecialistMobility 30

Solicitorgardner Leader 9Mobility 30

Storage - secureThe Barn Store 58Tai Chi 46Jo Dunn

Tax AdviceTax Assist 45Tennis Club 17

Theatre SchoolRead Theatre School 54

UpholsterySallies 47

VetDonnington grove 23

Web DesignDeborah Taylor 44

Window CleanerP.D.D. Services 36

INDEX


Call Phil Ryder on01635 873911

for a FREE estimate

Friendly, fully trained team

Flexible cleaning services(weekly, fortnightly, monthly)

Spring cleans, one-off blitzAll 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 50

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Transcript of Thatcham Connections Issue 50