Download - Thatcham Connections
BusinessBusinessBusiness DirectoryDirectoryDirectory
Lunch atLunch atLunch at The LambThe LambThe Lamb
CommunityCommunityCommunity PagesPagesPages
AdvertiserAdvertiserAdvertiser ProfilesProfilesProfiles
The The The Newbury ShowNewbury ShowNewbury Show
ThatchamThatchamThatcham FestivalFestivalFestival
Delivered free to 6000+ Homes and Businesses
September October 2009
Issue 22
TThhaattcchham CCoonnnneeccttiioonnssTThhaattcchham CCoonnnneeccttiioonnssTThhaattcchham CCoonnnneeccttiioonnss TThhee CCoonnnneeccttiioonnss OOuurr FFaavvoouurriittee LLooccaall MMaaggaazziinnee
Please mention Thatcham Connections when responding to advertisements. 2
Protection
We have many cats seeking loving homes especially older cats
fundraising volunteers always neededFor further information contact
01635 200111 Open daily 11am-3pm by appointment
www.newbury.cats.org.uk
Newbury Cats
Mobile Dog Grooming Service
Pamper Your Dog In The Comforts Of Your Own Home
Trimming/Clipping Brushing/Bathing Turbo Drying / Ear Cleaning /Nail Clipping
Friendly Reliable Service City & Guilds Trained
Tel 07766 303476
www.helenshairyhounds.com
RRRELIGHTELIGHTELIGHT HHHEATINGEATINGEATING SSSERVICESERVICESERVICES BOILERS FIRES COOKERS SERVICE REPAIRS INSTALLATIONS POWER FLUSHING LANDLORDS GAS SAFETY INSPECTIONS
Richard Carpenter Tel : 07900 267208
GJH Plumbing
Local Plumber, Fully Insured Friendly and Reliable
Graham Hayes 01635 862836 07704 145859
CallCallCall
Sue Sue Sue PittsPittsPitts
016350163501635 273210273210273210
ww
w.gentlehandsbabym
assage.co.uk
Baby Massage ClassesBaby Massage ClassesBaby Massage Classes The benefits for both of you,The benefits for both of you,The benefits for both of you,
will last forever.will last forever.will last forever.
Est. 1993
DIRTY COOKER ?
OVENS, HOBS, RANGES & AGAS
YOUR FRANCHISE COVERING
NEWBURY & THATCHAM Call Angela: 01488 684955
AARREE YYOOUURR OOVVEENN AARREE YYOOUURR OOVVEENN AARREE YYOOUURR OOVVEENN CCLLEEAANNEERRSS AAPPRROOVVEEDCCLLEEAANNEERRSS AAPPRROOVVEEDCCLLEEAANNEERRSS AAPPRROOVVEED BBYY BBEERRKKSSHHIIRREE TTRRAADDIINNGGBBYY BBEERRKKSSHHIIRREE TTRRAADDIINNGGBBYY BBEERRKKSSHHIIRREE TTRRAADDIINNGG SSTTAANNDDAARRDDSS SSTTAANNDDAARRDDSS SSTTAANNDDAARRDDSS ??????
www.cookerburra.co.uk
[email protected] 0118 9886070 www.thatchamconnections.co.uk 3
Please mention Thatcham Connections when responding to advertisements. 4
www.thatchamconnections.co.uk
Dear Readers
WELCOME to issue 22 and a particularly warm
welcome to our new readers - as distribution
increases again this month.
I do hope, like me, that you have all had some
really good relaxing days this Summer.
I would like to say a
special thank you to the Thatcham Photographic
Club for their help on The Acoustic evening
on 20 June (see p36.) It was really good to
have their support and i t w a s m u c h
appreciated.*
Two excellent small
businesses I would like to draw to your
attention are: Phoenix Trading (p49) and
Jamie Oliver (p46). If you are at a loss to
know how to earn extra pounds and pennies for
that big occasion in December, then you
may well find your
answer here. At least
you can begin to organise ordering the
’cards’ (A big job done!) As I personally
know the quality, I can assure you that you will
not be disappointed. And, with presents in
mind, I am sure also that there will be quite
a demand for all Jamie Oliver products.
In this issue you will find not only our
regular ‘Locals Who Launch’ feature but
also three ’Advertiser Profiles’, together with
a feature on lunching at The Lamb. I do hope
you enjoy reading them as much as I have
enjoyed writing about them.
With all best wishes
STOP PRESS.* Please see p51 for more diary events
Stable 5, Gravelly Bridge Farm-house Grazeley, Reading. RG71LG
Telephone 0118 9886070
Editor:
Ursula Aitken
Disclaimer
Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that data in this
publication is accurate, neither the publisher nor it’s editorial
contributors can accept any liability to any party for loss or
damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from
negligence, accident or any other case.
Thatcham Connections Magazine
does not officially endorse any advertising material included
within this publication. No part of this publication may be
reproduced, stored in any retrieval systems or transmitted
in any form, without prior permission of the publisher
Contents Page
Newbury Show 21
Behind the Lens 43
Community Pages Thatcham Festival 52/53
Children’s Challenge 56
Richard Benyon MP 61
Please note - next latest copy date : Mid-day Friday 2 October 2009
Printer: Newman Thomson
The front cover photograph has kindly
been supplied by Norman Jones, a
member of the Thatcham
Photographic Club
www.thatchamphotoclub.com
[email protected] 0118 9886070 www.thatchamconnections.co.uk 5
With our straight forward casting process we can save pprecious moments in your life to touch and hold forever.
We can present your memory in a wide range of finishes iincluding our popular choices of Bronze resin, Aluminium Resin and Marble plaster. We also cast in solid metal or
ssimple plaster to suit your requirements.
hhands and feet or preserve the tender touch of a loved one forever, please contact us for a free consultation in your
hhome or at our studio.
Please mention Thatcham Connections when responding to advertisements. 6
COMPUTER SUPPORT COMPUTER SUPPORT COMPUTER SUPPORT & HELP SERVICE& HELP SERVICE& HELP SERVICE
Most frequent problems dealt with: Internet failure / computer crash New PC or Laptop installation Home networks arranged or upgraded (shared printers, scanners, hard drives, broadband) Setting up e-mail Internet protocol phones / web cams Hardware & Software upgrades Computer data and power back-up And a Fault Finding and Correction Service
Just call on 0753 2372 2920753 2372 2920753 2372 292
ST IDEA WHERE TO START? ST IDEA WHERE TO START? ST IDEA WHERE TO START?
Alex Dewey
For the past three years
I have enjoyed helping
many local people and
businesses, including
Thatcham Connections.
I have transport so can
visit you as required.
[email protected] 0118 9886070 www.thatchamconnections.co.uk 7
LLooccaallss WWhhoo LLaauunncchhLLooccaallss WWhhoo LLaauunncchhLLooccaallss WWhhoo LLaauunncchh IIVVAANN IIVVAANNOOVVIIVVAANN IIVVAANNOOVVIIVVAANN IIVVAANNOOVV CCAARRPPEENNTTEERR // JJOOIINNEERRCCAARRPPEENNTTEERR // JJOOIINNEERRCCAARRPPEENNTTEERR // JJOOIINNEERR
kkiittcchheenn ffiittttiinngg
fflloooorriinngg
ssaasshh wwiinnddoowwss
wwiinnddoowwss
ddoooorrss
ssttaaiirrccaasseess
bbuuiilltt iinn ffuurrnniittuurree
ggaarrddeenn rroooommss
sshheeddss
ddeecckkiinngg
eexxtteennssiioonnss
rrooooffss
ffuullllyy ttrraaiinneedd
2200 yyeeaarrss
eexxppeerriieennccee iinn bbootthh nneewwllyy bbuuiilltt aanndd oolldd
RReeffeerreenncceess aavvaaiillaabbllee
LLiiaabbiilliittyy
iinnssuurraannccee
Hermitage Hermitage Hermitage
basedbasedbased
00777777 5588775511559900777777 5588775511559900777777 55887755115599
Please mention Thatcham Connections when responding to advertisements. 8
Many readers will r e c o g n i s e t h e photograph opposite of Sarah (and the ubiquitous mi lk bottle!) as she has supported Thatcham Connections since issue 1, which is now over four years.
Sarah is indeed familiar to many other local people as she has lived on the o u t s k i r t s o f Thatcham all her life.
So what has made her so successful? And what drives her on? The answer may lie in the fact that she is offering a premium service to local people. She has gone to many homes and solved many p ro b le ms ! T h is service is continually ap p re c i at ed b y readers.
with computers began over twenty years ago, so she was well prepared to assist her three c h i l d r e n ( n o w teenagers) to build a co m p u t e r f ro m scratch.
Then followed a period of study at Newbury College where she became aware that she seemed to know more on the subject than anyone else!
Sarah takes great delight in building good relationships with her clients - helping them and building their confidence to use their c o m p u t e r s m o s t effectively.
The people who she helps range through all ages and abilities - from youngsters to those approa ch ing e ar l y retirement and those who have already retired. Sometimes lessons are presents from children! Whilst some of her work is helping to train people to improve their skills, she is equally happy tackling almost any technical problem. Often trouble shooting problems can be solved quickly and easily and
SSarah Sladen
Feature Advertiser Profile
07979378408 or 01635 299429
HOME HOME HOME COMPUTER COMPUTER COMPUTER TROUBLE-TROUBLE-TROUBLE-SHOOTERSHOOTERSHOOTER
Starting from scratch or just needing a few
pointers.
Digital Photography
Email and Internet browsing
Virus Removal
Want advice on updating?
Any Hardware or Software problems
Has your computer
got a mind of its own?
Ed
[email protected] 0118 9886070 www.thatchamconnections.co.uk 9
FREE
*FITTING* FREE
*MEASURING*
SSHHOOWWRROOOOMM HHIIGGHH SSTT,, TTHHAATTCCHHAAMM
Romans Wood Venetian Pleated Vertical Blinds Rollers Plantation Shutters Conservatory Blinds
Keenest Prices - Best Service We are a local family business
Call PAUL or SUE 01635 866600
www.smart_blinds.net
SSSSSSMMAARRTTMMAARRTTMMAARRTT BBBBBBLLIINNDDSSLLIINNDDSSLLIINNDDSS && SS&& SS&& SSHHUUTTTTEERRSSHHUUTTTTEERRSSHHUUTTTTEERRSS ACCOUNTANCY AND
TAX SERVICES FOR SMALL BUSINESSES AND
THE SELF-EMPLOYED
Business Accounts Self Assessment Returns
VAT Buy-to-Let CIS Payroll
Meetings at Home/Business Fees fixed in advance
(01635) 582829
Please mention Thatcham Connections when responding to advertisements. 10
Garden Thyme is run by
Ian Douglas and Mark Lissenden.
Ian and Mark have over 30 years of combined experience and knowledge in the gardening sector, maintaining and developing private and commercial gardens to a high standard. Our qualifications include NVQ Certificates in Amen-ity Horticulture and RHS General Certificates. We offer a reliable and professional service, so that we can create, maintain and develop an enjoyable garden.
Our Thyme is your Pleasure.
Office 01635 866546
Ian Douglas 07725 819 652
Mark Lissenden 07742 078 026
Garden Thyme Garden Maintenance and Landscape Services
Their services include:
Regular maintenance on private and commercial properties, weekly, fortnightly or monthly visits
Small tree removals
Hedge Cutting/Pruning
Garden clearances
Jet Washing
Fence/Shed Painting
Weed control
Scarifying services
Rotovating service for vegetable plots and allotments
Mark Ian
[email protected] 0118 9886070 www.thatchamconnections.co.uk 11
BBOOOOKK YYOOUURR SSEERRVVIICCEE IINN SSEEPPTTEEMMBBEERR OORR OOCCTTOOBBEERR TTOO BBEENNEEFFIITT FFRROOMM SSPPEECCIIAALL RRAATTEESS
DDDOOO YOUYOUYOU NEEDNEEDNEED HELPHELPHELP ANDANDAND ADVICEADVICEADVICE WITHWITHWITH Buying a PC
Setting up a new PC Moving data from one PC to another
DDDOOO YOUYOUYOU WANTWANTWANT TOTOTO
Share your Internet connection
Back up your documents, photos and music Set-up a home network
Utilise secure wireless networking Protect your PC from viruses and spyware
AAARERERE YOUYOUYOU AAA HOMEHOMEHOME OROROR SMALLSMALLSMALL BUSINESSBUSINESSBUSINESS PC PC PC USERUSERUSER???
FFFOROROR AFFORDABLEAFFORDABLEAFFORDABLE PROFESSIONALPROFESSIONALPROFESSIONAL HELPHELPHELP
Clive Stanley Tel: 01635 297337 Email: [email protected]
OO VERVER 30 30 YEARSYEARS EXPERIENCEEXPERIENCE WORKINGWORKING WITHWITH COMPUTERSCOMPUTERS
Free Security Advice & Estimates
01635 868 318 101A Park Lane, Thatcham Berkshire
To ALL Types of Doors Windows and Garages
UPVc Door and Window Maintenance
Specialists
All makes of Locks Opened/Fitted/Replaced/Repaired
CAP SECURITY
LOCAL LOCKSMITHS
Professional Family Run Business
Please mention Thatcham Connections when responding to advertisements. 12
Berkshire AquaticsBerkshire Aquatics
Wide range of Koi and pond fish Equipment Pond Design & Build
Paramount Pools LtdParamount Pools LtdParamount Pools Ltd
01635 201854
01635 201623
Newbury Garden BuildingsNewbury Garden Buildings
01635 2000 00
01635 202232
01635 202300
The Energy Warehouse LtdThe Energy Warehouse LtdThe Energy Warehouse Ltd
Renewable Energy Showroom & Consultancy
01635 203344
[email protected] 0118 9886070 www.thatchamconnections.co.uk 13
A J C S E R V I C E SA J C S E R V I C E SA J C S E R V I C E S Landscape Gardener
Tony CoombsTony CoombsTony Coombs
01635 860159 07785 525752
AJC Services is a local business, run by Thatcham resident, Tony Coombs. Tony and his wife have lived in Thatcham for 25 years and Tony knows well the impor-tance of creating - and then maintaining - a garden of which you can rightly be proud. Tony also recognises the impor-tance of the personal touch and from the very first phone call en-quiry to the finish of the job, you have his assurance that you will receive only his professional (and
of course) personal attention. The photos below show some of the work AJC Services have done. They
Tony is happy to provide references and to show you the way he would plan the work needed, using his own computer modelling process. Please ring him to talk through what you may have in mind and to discuss your possible requirements.
After ... the photographs say it all !
Feature Advertiser Profile
Ed
Please mention Thatcham Connections when responding to advertisements. 14
A rboriculturalist is another name for a tree surgeon and at this time of year, especially after all the variable weather
we have been experiencing, you may need to call on one of these professionals to help repair or remove trees in or around your garden.
in because if it snows heavily, the extra weight can cause a lot of damage to trees and possibly your property too, if the branch falls on your house or car.
An arboriculturalist can check for dead wood, dangerously split branches and can identify diseased trees. In fact, a fully trained professional can work on your tree from the roots to the tip to keep it healthy, safe and attractive.
However tempting it is to work on a tree yourself, please take into account that working up a ladder is incredibly dangerous and the basic rule is only to work on those branches you can easily reach by standing on the ground. Anything higher than that should involve the professionals who have trained long and hard for this very purpose. They have the qualifications, know-how, equipment and insurances that only the professionals provide.
Another point to remember is that a well-established tree may well have a Tree Preservation Order on it, which means that you need to check with your local authority before attempting any major work on it. Also check
with them if you live in a Conservation Area. If either applies you will need to go to your local planning department to get permission to carry out the work.
undoubtedly be cheaper than a trained tree surgeon, you may end up with more problems than you started with, as the professional company will have invested in the correct training and protective equipment. Reputable companies never solicit work by knocking on doors and will always have an address and landline, rather than just a mobile phone number.
Once you have found a genuine arboriculturalist, check their qualifications, experience and make sure they have up-to-date insurance. References are a good idea too, follow them up and look at work they have done locally. Ask for a full written quotation and make sure you know whether VAT, removal of branches and tidying up is included in that as well. If you wish to keep the wood, then make that clear from the start as you may save quite a bit of money. And never pay until the job is finished!
In addition to understanding the health and structure of these living monuments, tree surgeons are creative and artistic so can prune to a beautiful and natural shape.
Trees can live for many decades so need to be pampered by the best people available!
Feature Gardening Page
[email protected] 0118 9886070 www.thatchamconnections.co.uk 15
to your WOODPILE
kindling can also be supplied.
SSeasoned logs cut and ssplit to your
fire size. Full and half
lloads aavailable
for more details: 07836 22346707836 22346707836 223467
Cold Ash
Please mention Thatcham Connections when responding to advertisements. 16
[email protected] 0118 9886070 www.thatchamconnections.co.uk 17
24 hr emergency
service
No Call out charge
Blocked Drains, Sinks, Showers and Baths
House Buyers
C.C.T.V. surveys
Drains Repaired or lined
Roots and Obstructions removed
High Pressure Water Jetting
Installations of Sewage
Treatment plants
Gutters, Storm Water Gullies and
Soakaways cleared
CHAS approved
Telephone
0118 981
2999
Fax
0118 081 2788
Please mention Thatcham Connections when responding to advertisements. 18
L E T S F A C E F A C T S :
Fusion Financial Management is a trading name of 2plan Ltd 2plan Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority. It is entered on
the FSA register (www.fsa.gov.uk) under reference 461598.
With people living longer,
the strain on State benefits growing,
and 1 in 9 baby Boomers forecast
to live to 100 ...
Call Simon Claxton at Fusion Financial Management
on 01635 202001
First meeting is free to establish whether I can help!
Would you like :
The Truth about what you should and shouldn't do with your money?
To get a f irmer idea of where you are heading f inancial ly?
To check that your ex ist ing prov isions, such as l ife assurance or pensions are rea lly right for you?
To take control of your f inances without necessar ily be ing sold anything - and see your l ifesty le improve?
[email protected] 0118 9886070 www.thatchamconnections.co.uk 19
PETER KIRKHAM YOUR LOCAL HANDYMAN
INSIDE : flooring - tiling - carpentry, flat pack
assembly, shelving, decorating
... and much, much more !
OUTSIDE : fencing, patios, repointing and
garden maintenance - both domestic one-offs to regular commercial contracts
... and much, much more !
12 Lamb Close Thatcham Berkshire RG18 3UE
01635 872285 0784907820401635 872285 0784907820401635 872285 07849078204 www.berkshirehandymanservices.co.uk
Feature Lunch at The Lamb
01635 200348 01635 200348 01635 200348 www.lambinn.info
Long Lane: Curridge: Berkshire RG18 9LY
Seeing The Lamb many times from the road driving by and knowing that it has r e c e nt l y u n d e r go n e dramatic refurbishments, I went along to have lunch and to see if it lived up to expectations!
A n d I w a s n o t disappointed. A great deal of care in both décor and detail have gone into the ‘new’ Lamb to make it a most charming and comfortable country pub/restaurant. It serves both Mediterranean Tapas and Traditional Menus. As you might expect, a range of real ales and good wines are also offered.
From a wide selection of menu choices, I chose ‘Salchichon’ - a plate of Spanish Salamis (priced at £3.50) and I assure you it was no ordinary salamis plate. The dressing and texture of the meat made it true perfection!
Bearing in mind that I only wanted a ‘light’ lunch, I decided to follow the salamis with the ‘Fresh Tagliatelle with roasted cherry tomatoes and home-made pesto’. This again,
proved to be a fine choice. The herb flavouring and the al-dente texture of the tagliatelle is hard to replicate exactly at home. This is a dish which will surely appeal to almost everyone, vegetarians or non veggies. At a price of £6.95 I thought it particularly good value.
Of course if you are very hungry or a foodie there are many more substantial dishes to chose from and Head Chef, Simon Rudd, knows how to cook them!
Sundays feature Traditional Roasts, alongside great Tapas Deals where you can enjoy f our d i s hes f o r £10. (Unbelievable, in my opinion!)
At lunchtimes and early evenings, you can also enjoy some great discounts - with fixed price 2 course lunches for £10, and ‘Early Doors’ 3 for 2 deals on the Tapas Menu between 5.30 and 7.30pm.
There is also a great pudding menu to choose from.
Could this pub be the best kept secret around?
Then ...why are we waiting? Ed
TAPAS
Sautéed Seafood with chilli & Spring
Onions
Fresh Grilled Sardines
Lamb with Red Wine and Garlic
Beef & Chorizo Meatballs in tomato
sauce
STARTERS
Crab and Herb Pancake
Warm Goats Cheese Salad
Crispy Duck Salad
Avocado Salad with smoked chicken
& prawns
MAINS Pan fried Brixham Plaice with Herb
Butter & home-made chips
Breast of Duck with Apple and
Cider Sauce
Medallions of Venison with creamy
Broad Beans and port wine jus
Swordfish Steak with fresh tomato
salsa
[email protected] 0118 9886070 www.thatchamconnections.co.uk 21
Please mention Thatcham Connections when responding to advertisements. 22
[email protected] 0118 9886070 www.thatchamconnections.co.uk 23
Please mention Thatcham Connections when responding to advertisements. 24
as the economic climate, you may be thinking of taking a holiday abroad, but what about buying a second home abroad? Owning a property abroad is no longer hallowed ground for the rich and famous alone and, if you choose wisely, then you could take advantage of the fantastic opportunities in places like Spain, Italy, Portugal and Cyprus to name but a few. It is estimated that over one million people from the UK now own property abroad but their experiences have been mixed! When you hear some of their tales of woe you could argue that there should be even more thought and planning made for such a purchase than for one here in the UK. From a financial planning point of view any purchase of such a property should be seen as an investment but for many there is a certain amount of emotion attached to it
investment, consideration should be given to risk versus reward. Property is one of four asset classes we can invest our money in, the others being cash, fixed interest securities and equities. We have all seen the risks that property can bring from recent times and so a degree of caution should always prevail. Remember also that apart from the risk to capital, Lawyer's charges, taxes, travel expenses and cost of insurances must all be met and can often be more expensive abroad. Build into your plan an understanding of how exchange rate fluctuation can affect your investment. Bear in mind other costs such as money transfer deductions, service charges for expensive shared amenities such as tennis courts and golf courses and fees for translating documents into your own language - a must if you are no linguist and you want to check the small print in a contract.
take Spain as an example. Right now,
the Costas down on the south coast are virtually at the bottom of the property market. Many properties are trading at half their asking price of two to three years ago. Developers are keen to do deals and with the right agents, lawyer and financing in place, there is significant opportunity to see some excellent returns over the next 5 to 10 years. Improvements in the road networks and a huge expansion plan well on the way at Malaga airport should help the region recover well and see property prices improve. Think also about making your purchase with friends or family. This could improve your buying power and could bring a villa with a pool within reach rather than just an apartment. So, buying a property abroad really does represent a viable opportunity to spread investment risk geographically as well as creating the real prospect of seeing some sunshine!
please see page 18
Simon Claxton
can be contacted on
01635 202001
Not for the Rich or Famous !
Feature Our Financial Expert - Simon Claxton
[email protected] 0118 9886070 www.thatchamconnections.co.uk 25
A local charity for local people
providing support, care and information
For more information please contact :
01635 31542
Supply and fit hardwood flooring Restore and repair original floors
Free Quotes Personal and Professional Service
Competitive prices Fully Insured
Tel: 01488 684078 Mob: 07931330310
www.oaktree-floors.co.uk
Hungerford
Lady Painter Jackie Cleaver
07771 636990
Please mention Thatcham Connections when responding to advertisements. 26
0011663355 226688554444
Thornford Road Crookham Common Newbury RG19 8EL
Good Homes required for Ex-Racing Greyhounds
All Dogs Walked Daily Professional Care and Attention at all times
Viewing welcome by appointment For further details please ring
(free to suitable homes)
Concrete Pumping Services
278A Benham Hill Thatcham RG18 3AJ T: 01635 865069 M: 07515 154722
Email: [email protected]
F o r s t y l e
F o r inaccessib le p l a c e s T r a d e a n d D I Y
F o r m a n y j o b s
N o j o b t o o s m a l l o r t o o b i g
Tradi t ional BuildersTradi t ional Builders
1
Traditional builders delivering quality and value
Experienced in listed and specialist building work
Please call Steve Dodridge to discuss your requirements
01635 55295501635 552955 07740 72035307740 720353
Pinchington Lodge, Pinchington Lane, Greenham Berks
[email protected] 0118 9886070 www.thatchamconnections.co.uk 27
please see page 40
Bruce Bamber
can be contacted on
07769 783424
One thing that all my clients have in
common is that they want to change
and by coming to see me they are
choosing to pursue something new for
themselves. However, sometimes the
problems that people experience stem
from the changes that are happening
out there.
The world is changing: energy is
uncertain, climate is fragile and
terrorists provoke constant vigilance.
The country is changing: jobs and
pensions are uncertain, we are
swamped by debt, an epidemic is at
large. Of course, out there can also
refer to those close to us when they
die, leave us or let us down. As
individuals we are called upon to cope
with a number of uncomfortable
feelings.
Change introduces unpredictability,
risk and insecurity. Insecurity can be
hard to handle. It is living on shifting sands,
not knowing what is going to happen next.
Change can be threatening and it can
provoke fear. Fear is a primordial emotion
that prepares us for battle or escape it
raises our whole being to alert status.
Battles and escapes never lasted very long
to deal with long periods of heightened
anxiety. They can be extremely debilitating
and can seriously deplete our mental and
physical resources.
For every change there is a loss. It is the
loss of the familiar, the loss of security, the
loss of something that has been important or
relied on. Change means that one thing is
left behind, perhaps forever. At the same
time we can also feel left behind or
abandoned.
The question is then how well we are
equipped to adapt when faced with change
out there and what may feel like a
bewildering mess of emotions inside. Think
about how you have dealt with the big
changes in your life in the past. Do you feel
you have been successful in grasping the
opportunity for personal growth? Or is the
pain, the loss, the fear still very real and
very threatening. Perhaps now is a good
time to reflect on your own responses to
change. Counselling can help you discover
your own capacity to embrace all that the
world might have in store for you.
Feature Our Counsellor - Bruce Bamber
Please mention Thatcham Connections when responding to advertisements. 28
Aberdeen Beef Welsh Lamb Poultry and Game
Wyatts B U T C H E R S
The Old Dairy Wolverton Park Wolverton Tadley Hants RG26 5RU Telephone: 01635 299399
mobile: 07949 751099
D e l i v e r y S e r v i c e
Family Butcher -- QQuality our first Consideration
[email protected] 0118 9886070 www.thatchamconnections.co.uk 29
MARQUEES FOR ALL PURPOSES PRIVATE & CORPORATE - LOCAL AND FRIENDLY
[email protected] Tel: 01488 608562 Mobile: 07721 866702
Quality Event Management
w w w . r e d c r e s t e v e n t s . c o . u k w w w . f a r p a v i l i o n t e n t s . c o . u k
THE SIX BELLS
The Green
Beenham
RG7 5NX
01189 01189 01189
713368713368713368
FFoouurr SSttaarr IInnnn AAAA rraattiinngg
Proprietors: Glynis & Chris
CAMRA PPuubb ooff tthhee YYeeaarr 22000088 West Berkshire Branch Campaign for Real Ale
Meals served every evening
and lunch-times Wed-Sun
2 courses £12.50 3 courses £16.50
Wed - Sat
bbooookk eeaarrllyy ttoo aavvooiidd ddiissaappppooiinnttmmeenntt.
NEW LUNCHEON MENU :
Please mention Thatcham Connections when responding to advertisements. 30
Martin is a mature 50 plus tradesman with many years of experience in the b u i l d i n g a n d flooring trades. H e c o v e r s T h a t c h a m , N e w b u r y a n d surrounding areas. He aims to provide a reliable and p r o f e s s i o n a l property mainte-nance service for people of all ages.
based on very reasonable half hourly rates or fixed price quotes for jobs of 8 hours or more duration.
For all the jobs you
PLUMBING from a new tap washer to a new bathroom suite. CARPENTRY cu r t a i n ra i l s , hanging door, flat pack furniture assembly. FLOORING Wood laminate, carpets, vinyl flooring. LANDSCAPING decking, shed erection, paving, fencing. PAINTING I n t e r n a l a n d external painting and decorating.
MMMARTINARTINARTIN NNNEWMANEWMANEWMAN
TTTHEHEHE MMMATUREATUREATURE HHHANDYMANANDYMANANDYMAN
For more details or to book a home visit please call Martin on
01635 860207 or 07970 897317 e:[email protected]
[email protected] 0118 9886070 www.thatchamconnections.co.uk 31
Please mention Thatcham Connections when responding to advertisements. 32
Highly qualified in dementia care and having had 20 years experience working with BUPA in the Newbury area, Sue Smith was appointed manager of Thatcham Court almost from its inception.
Then, with hard hat and wellies donned, she was able to be involved right from the beginning and saw
specia l ist nursing dementia site grow from literally rubble into the impressive home it is today.
Next came the vital part of selecting many admin and catering staff, as well of course, as trained nurses and carers. Sue explained how essential it is to have a staff who work well as a team and support each other. She admits it was a little scary at first -
after all it is a 38 strong team - yet she need not have worried because the selected group have proved
Although some of the trained nurses are from the surrounding area, all the carers and many others are from Thatcham.
Sue is insistent that her
each and every resident. This means that it is vital that their listening skills are particularly excellent. From the moment when a relative makes an enquiry, it is their job to empathise and get to know them.
Indeed when a resident arrives, expectations and what they have been used to are key to the understanding of the team at Thatcham Court. To help
made. Settling in is much helped when there is someone to talk to who knows a little about the past.
Activities play a large part in daily life at Thatcham Court and music, singing, scrabble, carpet bowls are a few of many indoor act ivi t ies which the residents become involved with. In addition, each month there are several entertainments and social events arranged.
Gardening, potting up, h a n g i n g b a s k e t s , accompanied visits to the church, market, to potter around Thatcham and even for an occasional pint at the pub, are all regular activities too.
So what makes it the happy well-run home it is?
residents and their families well - this engenders a
aim to be flexible whenever possible, to give residents what they want - and when
Of course I always knew the food was excellent, now I know
Ed
Sue SmithSSue SmithSue Smith Manager of Thatcham CourtMManager of Thatcham CourtManager of Thatcham Court
[email protected] 0118 9886070 www.thatchamconnections.co.uk 33
Feature Advertiser Profile
Please mention Thatcham Connections when responding to advertisements. 34
BBeerrnniieess
HHaaiirr && BBeeaauuttyy BBaarrnn Kennet Holme Farm Buildings, Bath Road, Midgham
RG7 5UX Telephone: 01189 713 562 Kim Jones
With 8 years beauty experience, Kim delivers a high quality service in all of her treatments. This is supported by extensive product knowledge including Dermalogica, Bio sculpture, Jessica manicures and pedicures, Fake bake tanning, Crystal clear microdermabrasion and Hot stone massage. Book a full-body exfoliation treatment and receive a nail tidy or toe tidy for free.
Acupuncture now available at Bernies.
Joanna is in the final stage of her degree in Acupuncture at the College of Inte-grated Chinese Medicine where she has completed extensive clinical training.
Until October Joanna will be offering the opportunity to experience Acupuncture from an experienced undergraduate at a special reduced rate.
To find out how acupuncture can help you, call Joanna on 07534 972664
Joanna Phillips
Karen Hackwood Face First Clinic now at Bernies - please see opposite page
-invasive treatments such as: Wrinkle Relaxing Injections (Botox), Dermal Fillers, Chemical Peels, Microdermabrasion
call Karen on 07917 890510 to book you FREE consultation When you mention this advertisement receive 10% off your first treatment!
[email protected] 0118 9886070 www.thatchamconnections.co.uk 35
Q. Why have you
moved premises
Karen?
A. It became obvious
that to work with
Bernie could only
strengthen both our
businesses - Face
First Clinic and also
the Hair and Beauty
Barn It is the best
thing we could have
done! The salon is
continually buzzing;
t h i s i s a n
atmosphere in which
we all thrive.
Q. May I ask how
y o u b e c a m e
interested in skin
and the care of it, in
the first place?
A. Several years ago
I trained as a nurse.
Then I went on to
concentrate on skin
care as a trained
medical professional.
Q. What do you
enjoy most about
your job?
A. I get great satisfaction
from making people feel good about themselves.
This is very important. As I am sure you would
agree, every single one of us benefits from having
as much confidence as possible to face the
world!
Q. What type of work are
you asked to do most frequently.
A. Difficult to know
exactly but I think it wou ld be wrinkle
reduction treatments and mole screening. Catching
possible skin cancers early is undoubtedly the
way forward. I can also recommend treatment or
products (incidentally these products are not
able to be bought off the shelf).
Q. How would you describe your work
ethos?
A. Ethical, discreet, professional, warm &
friendly.
Thank you Karen, I can now understand the full value of Face First Clinic. Ed.
Hair & Beauty Barn
(see opposite page)
Bernies
Karen HackwoodKaren HackwoodKaren Hackwood Face First ClinicFace First ClinicFace First Clinic
07917 89051007917 89051007917 890510
has now moved from has now moved from has now moved from
to:to:to:
Wrinkle Relaxing Injections
Dermal Filler Injections
Chemical Peels
Medical Microdermabrasion
Mole Screening
Skin Analysis
Feature Advertiser Profile
Please mention Thatcham Connections when responding to advertisements. 36
Photographs kindly taken by Thatcham Photographic Club
A most successful Acoustic party was held on 20 June at Kennet Holme Farm in aid of Cure Leukaemia.
Above from left to right: Bernie Kenna from Bernies Daniel Hulett from Pine and Oak Karen Bolt-Lawrence - event organiser Karen Hackwood from Face First Clinic
Leukaemia, in all its forms, is one of the commonest cancers. Whilst real progress has been made in the treatment of childhood leukaemia there still remain major challenges in providing curative therapies in the majority of adults. There is therefore an urgent clinical need to develop new an more effective treatments for adults with leukaemia. Over the last 30 years there has been real progress in understanding the process by which leukaemia develops. This information has been used to develop new drug and transplant therapies which specifically target leukaemic cells sparing healthy ones. These new treatments are not only remarkably effective but also free of many of the side-effects associated with conventional chemotherapy. The challenge for the next decade is to extend the curative potential of
.
Rose Kelly and Gerry Madden were married on Friday 10th July.
Rose and Gerry are known to many of Thatcham
years experience of running a most successful swimming school and run classes at both Downe
orientated swimming school and with their friendly approach to all the children, they achieve a great deal of confidence and a high level of swimming. Many congratulations! See page 58
Mrs Sharon Johnson new St John Ambulance Commander
On 24 June Mrs Sharon Johnson, pictured left, became Commander of St John Ambulance Berkshire. Mrs Johnson, a Thatcham resident, has been a member of St John for 36 year having joined as a Cadet. She previously held the positions of Child Protection Officer and most recently County Commissioner Youth for the charity. Sharon owns her own accountancy business in Newbury and will continue to support her clients as usual alongside her new voluntary role.
Feature About some of our Advertisers
[email protected] 0118 9886070 www.thatchamconnections.co.uk 37
LLLOCALOCALOCAL RRRESIDENTIALESIDENTIALESIDENTIAL CCCLEANINGLEANINGLEANING SSSERVICESERVICESERVICES
Hate Housework? We Love It!
Local Resident, Phil Ryder, has recently taken on a
myhome franchise covering the Thatcham area.
Phil recognises that ’time’ is precious and that everyone needs to spend valuable time at home - sometimes, without having to do the cleaning! Phil heads up a team of highly
-trained, fully insured, cleaning profession-als who have undergone a strict vetting process, including police checks.
myhome’s cleaning service is tailored to
meet the individual needs of each client, so
before Phil can prepare a personalised quo-tation, he will visit the client at their prop-erty to assess their requirements and dis-cuss any special requests.
Phil explains ‘Most customers opt for a fort-nightly clean as the service is so thorough. But our service is flexible and our one-off cleaning services are also great for people
in a variety of situations - moving into a new home, vacating rental accommodation and undergoing the dreaded inventory check - or in emergency situations such as after parties,
before family are due, or after the builders have been in’.
01635
www.myhomeplc.com
LET YOUR HOME SPARKLE THIS AUTUMN !LET YOUR HOME SPARKLE THIS AUTUMN !LET YOUR HOME SPARKLE THIS AUTUMN !
Please mention Thatcham Connections when responding to advertisements. 38
[email protected] 0118 9886070 www.thatchamconnections.co.uk 39
MEMORIALS IN STONEMEMORIALS IN STONEMEMORIALS IN STONE
New Memorials Supplied and Installed.
Existing Memorials Renovated and Cleaned.
Headstones Tablets Vases
Pet Memorials House Signs
Personal Service and Home Visits Enquiries: 0118 9815591 07917 818508818508818508
MEMORIALS IN STONEMMEMORIALS IN STONEMEMORIALS IN STONE
Please mention Thatcham Connections when responding to advertisements. 40
Maggie RobertsMaggie RobertsMaggie Roberts
T: 0118 971 4679 F: 0118 971 4728 M: 07880 603930
We provide support for your local busi-ness helping you with the more mun-d a n e t a s k s (invoicing, customer database updating, mailshots, digital and tape dictation etc) that will free up more of your time to actually do your job! A cost effective, flexible and local service - perhaps for a one-off project or on a more regular basis. We work offsite so no over-heads. Reasonable rates. Monthly re-tainers available.
E: [email protected] www.carrick-secretarial.co.uk
CARRICK CARRICK CARRICK
SECRETARIALSECRETARIALSECRETARIAL SOLUTIONSSOLUTIONSSOLUTIONS
Bruce Bamber Advanced Diploma in Integrative Counselling
Member of the British Association for Counselling
and Psychotherapy (MBACP)
Who said life was easy? Whether as a last resort, to get things back to how they used to be, or to make things better than they ever have been, counselling may be able to help. depression - stress - bereavement relationship difficulties - anxiety - self esteem - guilt - sexual issues - confidence - anger - self-harm - coping - life choices - abuse
t. 07769 783424 Based in Newbury
Confidential Counselling ServiceConfidential Counselling Service
1 AA rosette
A la carte menu available in the restaurant
Classic bar food menu all for under £10
Weekday lunchtime set price menu
Seasonal game always on the menu
Award-winning local real ales
Lovely big garden with loads of seating
Dogs welcome in the bar and garden
Beautiful views across fields and woodland Great walks from the pub
Open every day except Tuesdays
Booking recommended
www.potkiln.org | 01635 201366
THE POT KILN, FRILSHAM
[email protected] 0118 9886070 www.thatchamconnections.co.uk 41
THERESA WRIGHT HEALTH THERAPIST
T 0118 9710255M 0777 5708431 E [email protected] W www.theresamwright.com
TREATMENTS
REMEDIAL MASSSAGE THERAPY
AROMATHERAPY MASSAGE
FITNESS & HEALTH CONSULTATION
ONE ON ONE FITNESS COACHING
SIX WEEK HEALTHY EATING PROGRAMME
Theresa has her own
exclusive private gym and clinic - so you can be assured
of total privacy
THATCHAM SURGERY 10 London Road, Thatcham Berkshire RG18 4LG Tel: 01635 868382
TADLEY SURGERY Old Kiln House, Silchester Road Tadley, Hampshire RG26 3PX Tel: 0118 981 5500
24 Hour Emergency Service
Clinical expertise Full facilities including hospitalisation
Friendly and helpful staff
NEWBURY Donnington Grove Surgery, Oxford Road
01635 47170 (Small Animals, Farm and 24 Hour) 01635 39039 (Equine)
Please mention Thatcham Connections when responding to advertisements. 42
COMMERCIAL AND DOMESTIC
WHEELERS GREEN WAY, THATCHAM
007875 386490
NAPIT registered
Free no obligation quote
Fully insured
ELECTRICIAN
FALKLANDFALKLANDFALKLAND BUILDERSBUILDERSBUILDERS
Over 30 years ExperienceOver 30 years ExperienceOver 30 years Experience
01635 201125 & 07831 47069301635 201125 & 07831 47069301635 201125 & 07831 470693
Al l t yp es of Al l t yp es of Al l t yp es of B u i l d i ng w or k B u i l d i ng w or k B u i l d i ng w or k
u n d e r ta ke nu n d e r ta ke nu n d e r ta ke n
Extensions Extensions Extensions --- AlterationsAlterationsAlterations --- Renovations etcRenovations etcRenovations etc
FFFUNERALUNERALUNERAL DDDIRECTORSIRECTORSIRECTORS & & & MMMEMORIALEMORIALEMORIAL CCCONSULTANTSONSULTANTSONSULTANTS
15 Hampton Road Newbury Berkshire RG14 6DB
Tel: 01635 41615 Fax: 01635 522050
Dignity Funerals Ltd. A company registered in England
[email protected] 0118 9886070 www.thatchamconnections.co.uk 43
freelance cameraman. I work behind the scenes on many television shows screened around the world and each month I will share some of the stories behind the scenes of the pro-grams I am filming. So for my first article I am going to tell you about a documentary I filmed in Jonesboro, Arkansas in the US about men who work on 500,000 volt power lines while they are still switched on. By keeping the power live, it enables homes, hospitals and industry to keep working. I met a crew of nine operators. With four linesmen, crew chief, safety co-ordinator, ground coordinator, helicopter engineer and a helicopter pilot, they reminded me of a Hells Angels chapter. The crew chief ex-plained that they work from a helicopter to avoid contact with the ground, working on
though it is only a theory. As we set off at 5.30am, I filmed the convoy of four huge pick up trucks, each with a trailer. Two were carrying parts and tools, one was carrying aviation fuel and the last one would be working as a mobile helicopter workshop. We met the helicopter at the job location. The task ahead was to replace the spacers holding the high voltage cables apart (the triangle shapes you can see in the picture). On this job the dangers of electro-cution, severe burns, falling from the wire or the helicopter crashing are very high. The helicopter is fitted with two platforms which are attached to the skid on each side. The linesman sits and works from one, the other carries a generator to power their tools and help counterbalance.
dangling. As they approached I heard a loud crack and saw what looked like lightening shooting from the power line to the linesman
what I was filming - they were touching the line, with the helicopter tail rotor only a few feet from the wire. They then connected a
pilot and linesman were now live with
500,000 volts travelling around them. How were they still alive? Both men wore a
fireproof fabric containing fine copper strands which helps most of the electricity pass around their body rather than through it. However, where the suit touches their skin they explained that it felt like fire ants biting them. With another shot of lightening they had disconnected and the helicopter flew down the power line to the next spacer. The four linesmen estimate they would do around two hundred spacers a day. Today they were working in temperatures of over 100 degrees with 95% humidity, only breaking to refuel the helicopter. After an amazing 12 hours filming we all travelled back to the hotel and were looking forward to a well earned beer, until the team told me that Jonesboro was a dry county (no alcohol on sale). Thankfully the helicopter engineer then revealed a cool box of cold
third day, tragedy struck.... To be continued in the next issue!
Feature
Please mention Thatcham Connections when responding to advertisements. 44
[email protected] 0118 9886070 www.thatchamconnections.co.uk 45
Est. over 20 years
www.jmsofteners.co.uk
Service & Repairs of most makes Free site survey without obligation
Professional advice given
Visit our showroom: Unit 1, The Old Mill, Reading Road, Pangbourne, Berkshire, RG8 7HY
cleaning company
: 01635 818080
Non-caustic. Ovens, hobs, extractors and
microwaves cleaned.
www.ovenclean.com
Please mention Thatcham Connections when responding to advertisements. 46
PPARTY IN TOWN.. Jamie Oliver is coming to Town! Host a Jamie at Home Party and you can get your hands on his fabulous Jme collection, a selection of hand-picked products for the home in the comfort of your own
some gorgeous Jme products, FREE.
Book now for your Christmas party
New products and giftware available from September
Ready to party?
For more details contact Jo Hams on
01635 874662 Cons ID No 8275
Tracey Mobile Hairdressing
07770 823283
I offer quality, personal, affordable hair-dressing in the comfort of your own home at a time to suit you.
Based on Dunstan Park, I can travel to you in Thatcham and the surrounding villages.
Please call if you would like to make an appointment.
Tel: 07770 823283 Email: [email protected] Discounts available for double and group adult bookings. p j a h a m s @ h o t m a i l . c o . u k
[email protected] 0118 9886070 www.thatchamconnections.co.uk 47
Please mention Thatcham Connections when responding to advertisements. 48
Gardner Leader
On Tuesday 14th July 2009 the
Government announced that a review of the default retirement age planned for
2011 will be brought forward by a year. Julie Taylor, Employment Solicitor at
Gardner Leader LLP, briefly looks at what the current UK retirement provisions are
and why these are going to be reviewed.
What is the default retirement age and what does it mean?
Currently employers can require employees who reach 65 years to retire
on their 65th birthday for no reason other than their age, as long as they have
followed the prescribed statutory procedures.
What are the current procedures?
The procedures, set out in the Employment Equality (age) Regulations
2006, require (as a minimum) that employees are notified in advance of the
intended retirement date and of their right to request to continue working. This
notification must be sent not more than 12 or less than 6 months before the
intended retirement date, which is usually the employee's 65th birthday.
If the employee requests to work beyond the retirement date, the employer must
consider the request. If it can be
accommodated then a new retirement date
should be agreed. If the employer does not agree to the extension request, they can
insist that the employee retires on the intended retirement date, although the
employee could appeal against the decision.
Why is the retirement age the subject
of a review?
There are a number of reasons that have
been cited for the review and why it has been brought forward. The current
economic climate means that many individuals are being forced to work for
longer to meet shortfalls in their pension and maintain their standard of living.
Additionally, allowing UK employers to continue to end employment for no reason
other than the employee's age has been challenged as age discrimination. In
particular, the UK Government has been accused of failing to fully implement the
European Equality framework, which seeks to protect employees from discrimination
on grounds of their age, amongst other things.
Who has challenged the current
system as discriminatory?
Age Concern has been leading a case to
challenge the default retirement age and procedures implemented by the UK
Government through the Employment Equality (age) Regulations 2006. The case
was referred to the European Court of Justice in March this year who took the
view that, in principle, the default retirement age may be justified, but the
case has now been referred back to the High Court. The High Court's ruling is
expected in the Autumn and they have to decide whether or not the UK has correctly
implemented the European directive outlawing age discrimination.
The outcome of this case is likely to have a
significant impact, and for now we will all have to wait and see what happens next.
If you have any queries about any of the contents of this article, or have been
affected by any of the issues, please contact Julie Taylor on 01635 508181.
Ready to retire?
[email protected] 0118 9886070 www.thatchamconnections.co.uk 49
Private Care Services also provided. Are you looking for some
extra HELP if so give us a call Head office Newbury 01635 489 53
www.careathomeltd.co.uk www.live-in-care.org.uk
Family Run Business Providing Care for You at Home
We Care! Care @ Home provides a range of social support services
for Adults living within their own homes and sheltered housing. Our service users require practical, domestic and personal care tasks, which are essential to allow them to live with independence and dignity in their own homes.
These can include Working Nights,24 Hour Live in Service, short calls from 15 minutes up to 1 hr. Calls or
longer depending on your requirements. We can offer more services on request,
specialising in Live in Care.
People may access our services either via the Social Services Department of the Local Authority, or directly by
contacting our offices.
NEED AN MOT? Cars, Mini Buses, Light
Commercial Classes 4, 5L and 7
01635 876777
Free Collection/Delivery Free Courtesy Car on all servicing and repairs. Subject to availability
AIR CONDITIONING SPECIALISTS....RECOVERY SERVICE
BIG VALUE FIXED PRICE SERVICE WITH FREE MOT Price includes service parts, labour & VAT. Offer only available on 4 cyl cars up to 2000cc
WE CAN HELP
ONLY
£119 INCLUDING FREE MOT
HALFWAY GARAGE Unit 7 Pipers Court, Berkshire Drive, Thatcham
Specialists in plumbing and heating. We are registered to install and
service all systems.
We offer many other maintenance services, including:
Electrical Carpentry Installing bathrooms and kitchens
We always offer free quotes for our services and free call outs.
Call us now on 01635 826770 or 07771 653289
www.plumbersberkshire.co.uk
THATCHAM & NEWBURYTHATCHAM & NEWBURYTHATCHAM & NEWBURY MAINTENANCE SERVICESMAINTENANCE SERVICESMAINTENANCE SERVICES plumbing / heating electrical / carpentry
Small Building
email: williams.ronald@binternetcom
Please mention Thatcham Connections when responding to advertisements. 50
Thornford Park hospital
is a 117 bed low and medium secure hospital
offering high quality,
individualised care,
t r e a t m e n t a n d rehabilitation for men
and women aged 18+ who are detained under
the Mental Health Act (1983) and difficult to
place in NHS facilities.
Thornford Park is one of the largest local
employers in Newbury area and employs
clinical and non-clinical staff with a wide range
of jobs.
Patients with a wide range of mental health
issues are cared for. The hospital’s safe
secure and supportive environment enables
patients to maximise
their life opportunities
and live within the lowest level of security
possible.
Occupational Therapy (OT) plays a large part
in the lives of many people at Thornford
Park.
It has been recognised that not only the
quality of life but also independence are
enhanced by the many
activities that are
available.
Individual programmes are
developed for patients. This is carried out on a 1:1
or group basis, in a safe
environment.
Thornford Park offers many
treatments/therapies, such as:
Social skills/Life skills
Anger management
A n x i e t y / s t r e s s
management
Horticulture
Gym/sporting activities
Nutritional awareness
Cookery Skills
Computer tuition
Basic literacy/numeracy
skills
Vocational choices
Art and music skills
Drug and alcohol
awareness
Specialist psychiatry
a n d p s y c h o l o g y
treatment
We would welcome people to come and
meet us at the Thatcham Festival of
Arts & Leisure on the 10th October 2009 at St
M a r y ’ s C h u r c h Thatcham. (Please see
page 53) We will be d i s p l a y i n g A r t ,
P h o t o g r a p h y a n d Ceramics for all to look
at and enjoy.
Thornford Park Crookham Hill, Thatcham, Berkshire RG19 8ET
www.priorygroup.com
Feature Thornford Park
[email protected] 0118 9886070 www.thatchamconnections.co.uk 51
COONNECTIONNS OOFFEE AT THE REGENCY PARK HOTEL THATCHAM RG18 3RP
Tel
On Friday 9 October 2009 (11.00 am) atOn Friday 9 October 2009 (11.00 am) atOn Friday 9 October 2009 (11.00 am) at The Regency Park HotelThe Regency Park HotelThe Regency Park Hotel
Numbers are limited, so please contact Ursula Numbers are limited, so please contact Ursula Numbers are limited, so please contact Ursula
in good time to reserve a placein good time to reserve a placein good time to reserve a place Tel: 0118 9886070 or email [email protected]: 0118 9886070 or email [email protected]: 0118 9886070 or email [email protected] photographs taken by courtesy of The Thatcham Photographic Club 16/04/09
Victory Room Bucklebury Village Recreation Ground
LLive Music Bar-B-Que * Cakes & Teas Tombola * Bouncy Castle Face Painting and more
£5.
Please mention Thatcham Connections when responding to advertisements. 52
Useful local phone numbers:
Emergency
Thames Valley Police 0845 8505 505 British Gas Emergency 080 111 999 Thames Water Emergency 0845 9200 888 Southern Electric Emergency 0845 770 8090
Travel
Rail Enquiries 08457 484950 Newbury Buses 01635 67500
Council
West Berks District Council 01635 42400 Thatcham Town Council 01635 863592
Police Station 0845 8505505 West Berks Street Care 01635 519080 Post Office
Broadway, Thatcham 01635 623223 Woolhampton 0118 9713729
RSPCA 08705 555999 DVLA Swansea 0172 782341 Victim Support 0845 30 30 900 Health
Thatcham Medical Practice 01635 867171 01635 871117
Appointment cancellations 01635 295445 All other appointments/calls 01635 295445 Burdwood Surgery 01635 868006 Newbury Hospital 01635 273300 Vet
01635 868382 GKG Veterinary Surgeons 01635 868047 Library 01635 866049 Mon: 9.30-5.00
Tues 9.30-7.00 Wed - not open
Thurs 9.30 - 5.00 Fri 9.30 - 7.00 Sat 9.30 - 12.30
need to be able to shop is a tele-phone, then your shopping will be delivered to you at home. If you use Easy Shop you choose where you buy your shopping, when you have the shopping delivered and how often you use the service. The drivers will know that they are deliver-ing to an Easy Shop customer. Easy Shop is a practical way of sup-porting older people living independ-ently in their own home. The service is being run by Age Concern Berkshire in partnership with The Volunteer Cen-tre West Berkshire and is supported by West Berkshire Council. We are happy to visit you to tell you more about Easy Shop and answer any questions you might have. If you would like some more information about Easy Shop, please contact us on: 0 1 6 3 5 5 2 2 2 5 5 . www.ageconcernberkshire.org.uk
be interested to know about this new service. Easy Shop has been introduced to pro-vide a convenient, reliable shopping ser-vice for older people who have difficulty shopping for essentials, such as grocer-ies. Similar to Age Concern schemes elsewhere, it is using local supermarkets and their Internet shopping and delivery services to help people get the shopping they need. If you are finding it difficult to carry your shopping or you live too far from the big stores, Easy Shop gives you access to the wide choice of products available from a number of supermarkets. But there is no need to leave your home or to
Feature Community Pages
[email protected] 0118 9886070 www.thatchamconnections.co.uk 53
Please mention Thatcham Connections when responding to advertisements. 54
In this issue I would like to talk about strength exercise training. If you are not a regular gym exerciser you will probably be relying on walking, cycling and running as your main type of exercise. This is brilliant for aerobic fitness a healthy heart in so many words but how many of you think about strengthening up your muscles? We all need strong muscles for everyday living. We need our arms to be strong enough to lift loads shopping, young children, lifting the wheelbarrow; strong legs for walking, lifting heavy objects (yes, you need to use your thigh muscles for this, not your back!). The stronger your inner thigh muscles are (the adductors) the better your
muscles are your stabilising muscles and control your ability to move safely without damaging yourself. Weak core muscles usually mean backache!
Here are a couple of simple exercises that will help to strengthen all those muscles. Wall push up. Stand about two feet away from a wall and place your hands on the wall at shoulder height. Stand up on your toes and bending your elbows, take your whole body towards the wall. Keep your tummy pressed in towards your spine. When you return to the starting position, do not let your tail go first. In other words keep your body straight and with that tummy pressed in towards the spine, the work will be in the bulk of the core muscles which are situated in front of you. You will feel this in your shoulder muscles too. This exercise helps to strengthen your upper back muscles which are muscles that keep you standing up straight good posture -! It will also address strengthening those core muscles which are key to lumbar support and warding off that tummy bulge. Slide lunge: This is a great exercise for the legs. You need to be standing on a hard surface, ideally a wooden floor. Place a towel under one foot and slide your foot out to the side, bending your sliding knee as you
need to return to the starting position! You will feel this in your thighs and your hips. You can also slide the towel straight out
with. Bend the sliding knee as you move, trying to get as close to the floor as possible. Keep your hands on your hips to maintain balance and make sure that your front knee does not go over your front toes. Perform 8 repetitions in a set and perform up to 4 sets. Theresa Wright Health Specialist 0118 9710255 e-mail: [email protected] www.theresamwright.com
see page 41
Feature Our Health Therapist - Theresa Wright
[email protected] 0118 9886070 www.thatchamconnections.co.uk 55
Please mention Thatcham Connections when responding to advertisements. 56
Answer to riddle on page 62
Feature
[email protected] 0118 9886070 www.thatchamconnections.co.uk 57
Please mention Thatcham Connections when responding to advertisements. 58
THATCHAM 1.30pm or 2pm BEGINNERS & IMPROVERS SNORKELLING & DIVING 6 CHILDREN PER CLASS 3½ YEARS TO 16 YEARS SETEMBER TERM COURSE AVAILABLE
[email protected] 0118 9886070 www.thatchamconnections.co.uk 59
Please mention Thatcham Connections when responding to advertisements. 60
Small, friendly classes for all ages & abilities.
Sunday morning lessons at Downe House School, Cold Ash, Thatcham
We have some spaces left
Call now for availability!
Telephone 01264 771043 or email [email protected]
MM OO NN KK EE YY LL OO OO KK SS FF OO RR WW AA RR DD TT OO WW EE LL CC OO MM II NN GG YY OO UU !!
www.jubileedaynursery.co.uk
Padworth Common, Berkshire, RG7 4JD 0118 9701600
Fun French
Music and Dance
Soft-play
Cooking
Drama
Early Years Foundations Stage
Gardening Fantastic Outdoor play facilities Animal Care
Arts and Crafts
Woodland Adventures Healthy home cooked meals Ofsted Registered
[email protected] 0118 9886070 www.thatchamconnections.co.uk 61
The Floods Two Years On. With the second anniversary of the terrible floods that hit Thatcham in 2007 it is a good time to take stock of all that is being done to make a reoccurrence of those terrible days the remotest of possibilities for thousands of Thatcham residents. Since the floods I have been working with West Berkshire Council and your Town Council to ensure that flood prevention and damage repair are top of the agenda. There has been a plethora of reports since the floods. The Town Council produced a really good piece of work, as did West Berkshire Council. I contributed to the Pitt Inquiry which was set up by the Government. I
perspective to the Parliamentary Select
for the findings of all these reports to be put into action. In fairness, many already have. The Council have done a number of works to protect properties from surface water flooding. Thatcham has an emergency flood plan and there is much co-operation between the Council and the
The flood plan for Thatcham has won DEFRA funding for works to minimise surface water flooding. This is a major step forward and is seeing works carried out that will give householders much needed reassurance. My next battle is on insurance. My be l ie f i s tha t no Tha tcham householder should face dramatically increased premiums or excess charges. Thatcham is not in a flood plain and therefore should not be considered as an area of risk equivalent to Tewkesbury or many of the other towns that regularly flood. Unfortunately too many insurance companies look at flooding as a historic fact rather than in terms of future risk. I have the co-operation of the Environment Agency in telling insurance companies of the many works that have been done to limit the chance of a reoccurrence of flooding that was after all, a surface water problem rather than the consequence of a river bursting its banks. I hope to be able to inform Thatcham residents of my discussions in coming weeks. I am as aware as anyone of the personal toll the floods had on so many lives. I know that many in Thatcham look at the weather forecast with a real sense of fear and I want to do all I can to consign the floods of 2007 to the history books. People need to be able to put the trauma of July 2007 behind them and move on with their lives.
Email: [email protected] Tel: 01635 551070
Feature Richard Benyon MP for Newbury
Please mention Thatcham Connections when responding to advertisements. 62
Animal Feeds FC Cummins & Sons 63
Blinds Shaftesburys 39 Smart Blinds 9
Boarding Kennels Foxhold 28
Bucklebury Octoberfest 51
Butcher 30
Builders Berridge & Go 28 Falkland Builders 42
Burial Ground Acorn Ridge 45
Business Opportunity 2
Car Maintenance Halfway Garage 49 Cards Phoenix Trading 49
Care Services BUPA 32/33 Care @ Home Ltd 49
Carpenter/Joiner Ivan Ivanov 7
Roger Fisher 63
Cats Protections Newbury Cats Protection 2
Charity The Newbury & District
Cancer Care Trust 27 Children - including Babies Bucklebury Pre-School 55
Buggyfit 2
56
GR Swimming School 58 Jubilee Day Nursery 59/60 Just the 2 of us 55 Monkey Music 60
60 OISE 57 Read Dance 58
Sue Pitts 2 The Designer Baby Show 51
The Little Book of Stories 58 Cleaning My Home 37
51 Cooker Cleaning (see oven cleaning) Community Pages 52/53 Computers Alex Dewey 6 Clive Stanley 11 GIGTEK Ltd 30
Sarah Sladen 8 Thatcham PC Doctors 17 Concrete 24-7 Concrete 28 Counselling/Coach Bruce Bamber 29/40 Curtain & Soft Furnishings Indigo Designs 63
Dancing & Drama Schools One Step Ahead 63
Decorator Lady Painter 27 Tony Fegan 6
Drainage Ambar Drainage 17
Dog Grooming Services 2
Electrical & Property Thatcham & Newbury Maintenance Services 49
Electrician MP Electrics 42 Financial - IFA Simon Claxton 18/26
Fitness Classes Buggyfit 2 Flooring
Oaktree Floors 27 Stone Partnership 23
Funeral Directors Turner Brothers 42
Garden Centre Hilliers Garden Centre 12
Gardening Feature 14 Gardening Services
AJC Services 13 Bathstone 3
Buckingham Landscape 63 Garden Thyme 10 Green Thumb 16 JPH Forestry 15 Mowers UK 11NPT Paving Specialists 15 Tree Surgeon 15
Hat Hire or Buy
Get Ahead Hats 63 Handyman
Peter Kirkham 19 Martin Newman 24
Hair & Beauty Bernies 34 Face First Clinic 35 Mobile Hairdressing Tracey Blix 46 Twist Hair 44
Health & Fitness Club Bradfield College 44
Heating Services Relight 2
Health Therapist Theresa Wright 41/54
Home Cinema Vivid Research 9
Locksmith
Cap Security 11 Logs
David Pope 15
Marquees Redcrest Marquees 31
Memorials
Memorials in Stone 39
Newbury Show 21 Organic Foods
Pang Valley Organics 25 Riverford 18
Oven Cleaning Cookerburra 2 Ovenclean 45
Party Hosting Jamie Oliver 46
Picture Framer Inner Piece 27
Photographer Henwood-Fox Photography 46
Plumber Anthony Bosley 38
GJH Plumbing 2 Thatcham & Newbury
Maintenance Services 49
Psychotherapy Course at Douai Abbey 47 Removals
One man and his van 63 Restaurants
The Coach and Horses 28 The Lamb at Curridge 20 The Pot Kiln at Frilsham 40 The Six Bells 31
Richard Benyon MP 60
Sand and Gravel 38Rivar Sand & Gravel 39
Sculpture
Casting a Memory 5 Secretarial Services
Carrick Secretarial Solutions 40
Solicitor
CLM Law 22 Gardner Leader 48
Tax Advice Tax Assist 9 TWD
Telephone Extensions Webb Telecom 63
Thornford Park 50
Tree Surgeon JPH Forestry Ltd 15
Vet 42
Water Softener JM Softeners 45
OOOOOOUURRUURRUURR EEXXCCEELLLLEENNTTEEXXCCEELLLLEENNTTEEXXCCEELLLLEENNTT CCCCCCOOLLDDOOLLDDOOLLDD AAAAAASSHHSSHHSSHH
DDDDDDIISSTTRRIIBBUUTTOORRIISSTTRRIIBBUUTTOORRIISSTTRRIIBBUUTTOORR IISSIISSIISS OOFFFFOOFFFFOOFFFF TTOOTTOOTTOO UUNNIIVVEERRSSIITTYYUUNNIIVVEERRSSIITTYYUUNNIIVVEERRSSIITTYY AANNDDAANNDDAANNDD WWEEWWEEWWEE NNEEEEDDNNEEEEDDNNEEEEDD
AAAAAA RREEPPLLAACCEEMMEENNTTRREEPPLLAACCEEMMEENNTTRREEPPLLAACCEEMMEENNTT TTOOTTOOTTOO DDEELLIIVVEERRDDEELLIIVVEERRDDEELLIIVVEERR IINNIINNIINN TTHHEETTHHEETTHHEE AARREEAAAARREEAAAARREEAA
FFIIVVEEFFIIVVEEFFIIVVEE TTTTTTIIMMEESSIIMMEESSIIMMEESS AAAAAA YYEEAARRYYEEAARRYYEEAARR !!!!!! PPPPPPLLEEAASSEELLEEAASSEELLEEAASSEE CCOONNTTAACCTTCCOONNTTAACCTTCCOONNTTAACCTT MMEEMMEEMMEE IIFFIIFFIIFF YYOOUUYYOOUUYYOOUU TTHHIINNKKTTHHIINNKKTTHHIINNKK
YYOOUUYYOOUUYYOOUU CCOOUULLDDCCOOUULLDDCCOOUULLDD HHEELLPPHHEELLPPHHEELLPP......
UURRSSUULLAAUURRSSUULLAAUURRSSUULLAA:: 00111188 99888866007700:: 00111188 99888866007700:: 00111188 99888866007700
Index
[email protected] 0118 9886070 www.thatchamconnections.co.uk 63
The school offers a range of dance classes for adults - Ballroom, Latin American and Sequence Dancing. All
rhythm to those who wish to improve their technique and style - up to, and including, competition standard. Classes in Cold Ash & Newbury
01635 580930 www.1stepahead.info School of DanceSchool of DanceSchool of Dance
BBUUCCKKIINNGGHHAAMM LLAANNDDSSCCAAPPIINNGG && GGRROOUUNNDDWWOORRKKSS
- Driveways, Patios, Paths, Brickwork - Site Clearance, Levelling, Foundations, Bulk Excavation, All Excavator work - Garden Buildings, Garages - Sand, Gravel & Topsoil delivered
Tel: 01635 269216 www.buckinghamlandscaping.co.uk
For all your soft furnishing and sewing needs
Curtains, blinds, pelmets and alterations. Fabric choices and advice available
Contact:
Judy Connolly
07747 634556 www.indigodesign.co.uk
ROGERROGERROGER FISFISFISHERHERHER
Carpenter/Joiner Kitchen Fitter/
Glaze Tiling House Maintenance Painting/Decorating
30 Years Experience
Tel: 01635 827690 mob: 07876 588721
Hire or buy a hat or fascinator.
Shaw Lane House Shaw Lane Baughurst 0118 9816555
GET AHEAD HATSGET AHEAD HATSGET AHEAD HATS
www.getaheadhats.co.uk e: [email protected]
Telephone Extensions S u p p l y & I n s t a l l a t i o n s e r v i c e s Professionally fitted to BABT regulations anywhere into your propertyProfessionally fitted to BABT regulations anywhere into your propertyProfessionally fitted to BABT regulations anywhere into your property
Extension telephone points Broadband ADSL telephone points Sky Digital telephone points Telephone line faults repaired All work guaranteed Free estimates/Competitive prices
00111188 998844 55118844 00777788 779933 44888833 00111188 99774444229944
WEBB TELECOM
F.C. CUMMINS & SONS 2 MILES NORTH OF NEWBURY ON B4009
HORSE/ANIMAL and POULTRY FEEDS
A range of pet food for Cats/Dogs and Small Pets Natural and organic feed plus other equine supplements and goods
Horse Feed from £5.50 per bag Cash & Carry or Delivery
Paddock Maintenance and FencingVisit our shop now or phone us on
01635 200327 www.fccumminsandsons.co.uk
Thatcham ConnectionsTThatcham ConnectionsThatcham Connections Ursula Aitken Stable 5 Gravelly Bridge Farmhouse Grazeley Reading RG7 1LG
Tel: 0118 9886070 email: [email protected] www.thatchamconnections.co.uk