BVRA £1, free to Members

Issue 106 Winter 2013 Newsletterfrom the Barkham Village Residents Association http://www.barkham.org.uk

Friday 20 December 7pm The Junipers Music from the Maestros Mulled Wine and Mince Pies More details on p10-11

Another record year for membership!

678 Barkham households are now paid-up members of the BVRA

Data Protection Act

Members are reminded that membership records are maintained on a personal computer. Details recorded are names, addresses, telephone numbers and payment In records. The information is used solely for BVRA purposes, and any member is free to see his/her details by contacting the Membership Secretary. this issue… Quiz 2 Borough Councillor 8 Volunteers/CAB 15 Editorial 3 Social 10 Music Societies 16 Parish Council 4 Ramblers 12 Local services 18 Garrison Development 6 Local History 13 Useful numbers 19 Gardening 7 Church 14 Diary 19 BVRA 2013/14 GENERAL Laurence Heath has continued to COMMITTEE MEMBERS contribute Development Watch updates from time to time in BVRA Chairman Chairman: vacant addition to his responsibilities Stewart Richardson acting on the Parish Council. The quiz [email protected] has become a fixture and I hope I Secretary: Sarina Martin manage to set the questions at the Can you help please? 19 Silver Birches 977 4065 right level. Topics this year have included the Beatles, parliament, The Barkham Village Residents Association’s role is “to preserve and enhance the [email protected] Treasurer: Ian Overton snooker colours and food. In this character of the Parish of Barkham as a community”. The chairman facilitates this role 6, Waverley Way issue it’s “the missing link”. An and specific duties include: eclectic mix! 973 4806 • To chair the Association, Committee meetings (4 per year) and the AGM. [email protected] We continue to cover the activi- • Co-ordinate actions across the Association’s fields of activities. Social: Judith Collins Editorial ties of Barkham Parish Council 31 Almond Close • Represent the BVRA with outside bodies (e.g. Parish Council, media, the public). and I’d like to take the chance 977 1579 Welcome to the winter edition of to thank them for once again • Recruit new Committee members when necessary. [email protected] the Barkham Newsletter! This is supporting the newsletter with Membership: Jim Butler a good time to look back on the an annual grant. Without it we • Write the Chairman’s introduction to each Newsletter. 6 Sandy Lane 978 3572 year. would have to reduce the size • Time commitment could be a maximum of half a day per month. [email protected] of the newsletter and increase Newsletter: Stewart Richardson 2013 was another successful year membership fees, both of which If you feel you may be able to take on this important role in the local community or 342 Barkham Road for the newsletter. We had 3 edi- we want to avoid. I also want to would like more information, please contact any member of the committee (details 979 1914 tions with 20 pages and 1 of 24. thank the advertisers who give us [email protected] opposite). We’ve also had another record an important source of revenue Web Site: Dave Clements year for membership. Thanks to offset against our costs. I hope 32 The Junipers they get some return from their 989 2198 to Jim Butler and his team of investment! [email protected] newsletter distributors we now The Quiz Advertising and have 678 households as paid up Newsletter Contributions members of the BVRA and so Finally, as always I’d like to thank This time the theme is “the missing link” – you’ll soon get the idea! receiving all 4 editions. Bob Bishop for his continuing 1. Violet, Blue, Green, Yellow, Orange. Red. What is the Newsletter articles / contribu- work as the “publisher”, Steve missing colour? tions for the Spring edition We’ve had articles from some Young as the “wholesaler” who should be in by 21 Feb 2014. It new contributors, who are always packages up the copies and to all 2. Anthony, Winston, Alec, Harold, Edward...... who is next? welcome if difficult to find! Can the distributors without whom helps if these can be submitted At the September meeting, Ann I take this opportunity to appeal the newsletters would never 3. Alpha, beta, gamma, delta – what’s next? in electronic form by email to Teater came to talk to us about for more? Where are all you bud- reach the streets of Barkham! [email protected]. “The Origins of the Calendar”. 4. James I, Charles I, Charles II, James II, William & Mary - ding journalists? There must be a They may also be hand writ- Diane Hayes presented “The who is missing and what is the link? local issue that interests or annoys ten, and should be sent to the Story of the Poppy Appeal” at the Stewart Richardson you – share your views and write 5. Reading, Chieveley, Membury.... what’s next? Editor, Stewart Richardson, at October meeting. Tony Weston Editor me a piece about it! 342 Barkham Road, , will be coming to tell us about 6. Chelsea, Chelsea, [?????], Chelsea, Wigan. What is the RG41 4DE. “Brownsea – a Secret Island”. missing team? Regular contributors cover the The Christmas Party will be on Wokingham Times 7. The Famous Five consisted of Julian, Dick, Anne & George For trade adverts, contact 4 December and is always well church, history, schools, garden- and who? Ian Overton by email to attended. ing, rambling and other local or- [email protected], or ganisations, including local music If you have local news or would 8. Embankment, Charing Cross, Tottenham Court Road. societies. There is also a regular like your event photographing call 973 4806. We offer three sizes, The meetings take place on the What is the missing tube station? report from our borough council- for the paper, please let me know. 64mm x 54mm at £22, 124mm x first Wednesday of each month lor. The centre pages are usually My direct line is 918 3023. 9. Christopher, David, Matt…..who’s next? 105mm at £52 and 190x130mm at at approx. 7.30pm at Barkham reserved for “Social” – Judith’s £100, for 4 quarterly insertions. Village Hall. For further details, 10. …speaking of Who’s Next, who had an album of that report and plans for forthcoming Jon Nurse please contact Pauline Vestey on name? events and pictures of recent ones. Distribution of the next issue will 979 1714. take place in early March. Answers on page 19 Angela Hands 2 3 SDL Community Forum countryside, and outside of the We have reintroduced the His- away from the residential areas settlement limit of Wokingham. tory of Barkham section and have in village and would Whilst it constitutes a reserve added a couple of new articles provide a link to the proposed A Community Forum took place site its release is not acceptable which we hope you find interest- relief road. This seems on Monday 11th November at in principle prior to 2026. Many ing. We’ve included a selection to be the best route for providing 7.00 p.m. at Henry Street Garden thanks to all residents who wrote of pictures of Barkham but are Arborfield Garrison with direct Centre. These are excellent meet- in to oppose the development. always on the lookout for more. routes towards Reading and the ings where you can ask ques- If you have any photos we could M4 eastbound and westbound, tions and raise concerns, please use on the site they will be grate- while avoiding the use of residen- do support them as they are for Litter News from fully received. Please send them tial roads such as Langley Com- your benefit in order that the Your Parish Council to me at the email address below. mon Road, Barkham Road and best possible development with The date for our next Parish Litter Bearwood Road. infrastructure can be achieved. Pick is Sunday 23rd March, whilst Arborfield Garrison we endeavour to report areas that There are also back issues of the Development newsletters and Development ***Breaking News*** Planning Application : Land are particularly prone to litter, the behind 336-350 Barkham Road main area that seems to be a hot Watch alerts so you’ll be able to The Parish Council have been spot is Commonfield Lane, this easily refer back to check previous [Ed – difficult to have this in a working tirelessly with regard is a popular area for fly tippers, communications. For all you quiz quarterly newsletter!] We have This planning application was to the proposed development at if any residents do see refuse be- New BVRA Website fans, we’ve also included 15 of just heard from Wokingham highlighted in the last edition of Arborfield Garrison, the Army ing dumped please could they the quizzes that have previously Borough Council that, follow- the Newsletter for a proposed must move out by January 2016 report it and get any registration The new website has been up appeared in the newsletter. Why ing overwhelming local sup- development of 25 dwellings. when work will commence, if numbers. Clearing fly tipping and running for a few months not submit a quiz of your own port, they are likely to adopt The Parish Council are delighted not before. We must remember costs the Borough Council a and we hope you have taken the to test your neighbour’s general Option B as the preferred route to inform you that this has been that most of the military land is huge amount of money every opportunity to have a look at it. knowledge? for the relief road. This is sub- refused by Wokingham Borough in Barkham, the name Arborfield year which comes out of your The site has a fresh new look and ject to further investigations Council. The main reason was Garrison is misleading: can we Council Tax. The bin which the introduces a number of additional There’s a lot more information and planning. that the proposed residential de- have suggestions for a name for velopment is located within the Parish Council provided in The features that build on the previ- on the site – details of the par- this development please? “Lang- Coombes is obviously being well ous version of the site. In case ish council, a calendar of events ley Common” is one that has been used, especially by dog walkers you haven’t, here is a reminder and contact details of other lo- suggested as this dates back to the and this has clearly helped to keep of what you can access there. cal organisations. Why not go name of the area before the Army this area clean. If there are any and check it out for yourself at moved in. Crest Nicholson have other areas that you feel would Our email subscription service http://barkham.org.uk. now been appointed as the main benefit from additional bins do has been extended. Now as well developer and it is very impor- let the Parish Council know. as being able to subscribe to de- Finally, we want to keep devel- tant that we work closely with velopment watch alerts to be kept oping the site so I’d welcome them to achieve the best possible The Sam Hosgood informed of potential develop- any contributions or suggestions outcome. Sporting Endeavour Fund ments in the local area you can for what you’d like to see on also subscribe to receive alerts for the site. You can contact me at Arborfield Relief Road The Parish Council were de- our social events. All you need to [email protected] lighted that three worthy young do is click the links on the home I hope many of you took the op- people were presented with page and provide us with your Regards portunity to view the exhibition cheques from Sam Hosgood at email address. To ensure email Dave Clements of the proposed routes for the the meeting of the Parish Council addresses are genuine you will Arborfield by-pass this was on on 10th September (pictured op- then receive an email asking to display at the Village Hall and at posite). They are Katie Abrahams confirm your address – if you Henry Street Garden Centre. The who is a talented trampolinist and don’t receive this please remem- Parish Council consider Route Jacob Payne and Sarah Wakefield ber to check your spam folder B to be the best for Barkham. both ice dancers. We wish them and also set your email system up This route begins at the Langley every success for the future. to accept emails from barkham. Common roundabout and rejoins org.uk. If you are already a sub- scriber to the Development Watch the A327 near Farley Farm, just Judith Neuhofer alerts your subscription has been south of the bridge across the Clerk to maintained but you will need to Lodden. The route continues Barkham Parish Council west of Henry Street Garden subscribe to receive social emails Centre. This route would be well 4 5 particular the revised applica- some upmarket houses, they are ers the importance of planning Arborfield Gardening Association tion should feature a transport also committed to building a the northern gateway to the de- scheme that takes account of range of housing types including velopment (near Biggs Lane) to Hello reader, the Arborfield Relief Road, affordable housing and homes encourage traffic to opt for the to which WBC are now com- for the elderly. A financially suc- relief road where possible, rather In August a few of our members Also in October was the 3 Society mitted. cessful development should, we than taking residential roads attended Hurst’s Centenary Social event enjoyed by Shin- hope, mean that they will have through Barkham. Show, with one of our members field, / Heckfield, Barkham Parish Council has a vested interest in maintaining winning the ‘young at heart’ sec- and ourselves, Arborfield with been very active in developing a quality throughout the develop- The visit to Bolnore Village de- tion. The Show had very enthusi- contributions from a number of relationship with Crest. We have ment, making it an aspirational velopment was illuminating. Re-think for already met with them several place to live. Though much smaller than the Arborfield Garrison times, either on a bilateral basis, or proposed Garrison development, Development Plans as a part of a larger group. Some Incidentally, it is now planned it showed that the developers are of us have also visited a Crest that the military will vacate the capable of producing an attractive The Arborfield Garrison Land- development at Bolnore Village, site by beginning of 2016 and development built to high design owners Consortium (AGLC) which is near Haywards Heath, that the first houses will be built standards. The village is still de- are withdrawing the outline to get an idea of what might be around the same time. Crest will veloping some 18 years since the planning application that they proposed. be the developer for the largest first bricks were laid. The village submitted in April, and will be portion of the site, around 2,000 centre is built around a square Some residents may be sceptical replacing it with a new applica- homes on former MOD land and seemed to be thriving. Local of the value of talking to devel- tion which is expected by April situated almost entirely within vernacular architecture has been opers, but I take a more posi- next year. the Barkham Parish boundary. widely used, in this case reflecting tive and hopeful view, that we A small area between Sheerlands the Sussex style. Existing trees I consider this to be a positive de- should grasp any opportunity Road and the A327 (which is in and hedgerows were retained velopment on a number of counts: to put across our views so that Swallowfield Parish) will be de- allowing attractive landscaping they can be taken into account 1. The AGLC appear to have rec- veloped by Wates. There is still and walkways away from traffic. early in the design process. This ognized that the original ap- no news on the submission of a It certainly matched many of the is a far better position than the plication was poorly thought planning application for the rest expectations that we have for the one we faced with the previous through: remember, this was of the site covering the remaining Garrison. application, when we could only the plan that proposed traf- southern area which lies within react to proposals served up by Whether we like it or not, de- fic lights at practically every Finchampstead Parish. It remains astic support from local families Barkham residents to both the the consortium. velopment will take place at the main junction in Barkham. to be seen which developer is who are clearly most industri- logistics, as we hosted, and the Garrison. We are all aware that The planners at Wokingham chosen for that land. ous – every child seemed to win Competition Table. This year it It is too early to predict the out- the government is under pres- Borough Council (WBC) rec- pocket money to take home. So was won by Swallowfield with a come of these discussions, or in- BPC has made it very clear to sure, both to raise money (of ognised that it was “flawed” there were some delighted little tie for second place – so no one deed the nature of the revised ap- Crest Nicholson that sorting out which selling the Garrison site is (to use planning language) faces inside the hall, and smiling came last. Our theme for the plication. The main ingredients the transport issues is our top just a part) and to meet housing and no doubt the fact that older ones enjoying the beer tent evening was ‘Magic of the Night’ will remain the same: the number priority. They have confirmed targets to accommodate the rising hundreds of residents wrote and silver band outside. and our speaker from the Char- of houses, schools, medical facili- that new consultants will be tak- population. Consequently there ity ‘Wings of Freedom’ which to voice their concerns stiff- ties, retail, etc., but Crest say they ing a fresh look at the potential will be no turning back. The Par- September saw us ‘garden-hop- uses birds of prey to work with ened their resolve. will attempt to improve the lay- problems and preparing a new ish Council and residents have to ping’; enjoying private viewings dementia sufferers and children 2. It reflects new beginnings, out: in particular they believe in traffic assessment. This time, accept this reality. Nevertheless of local gardens and the annual with learning difficulties. Two with Crest Nicholson now tak- centralising as many facilities as the plan will take into account we will be keeping up the pres- Henry Street Quiz, this year won beautiful owls were displayed, ing over as the lead developer possible so as to make the centre the Arborfield Relief Road. In the sure to ensure that not only is the again by Ascot so congratulations even taking flight across the hall, for AGLC. I am encouraged as lively as possible. Crest say meantime some of you may have development of a high standard, go to them. and guests invited to allow them that Crest appear to be more they place a high priority on the noticed black boxes appearing at but also, for those of us already to perch on their (well-gloved) ambitious about quality than quality of landscaping and aim to strategic sites in the parish which living in the area, that the neces- October was a speaker meeting hand. A real privilege to see! many developers. In addition, apply “garden city” principles to record traffic levels. This is a BPC sary infrastructure is put in place and Mark Saunders from Fittle- they seem to have a more open the development. initiative to get our own live data to ensure that we continue to worth House in Sussex gave an If you would like further informa- approach to consultation with on the local situation. Hopefully enjoy living in Barkham. the local community. There is no doubt that both the interesting talk about his work tion about any of our events, our we will be able to report the initial Christmas Party approaches, or landowners and developer aim to Laurence Heath as Head Gardener on a country 3. At last there is a possibility of results in the next issue of this to join our friendly club, please make a profit from the develop- Vice Chairman estate. We hope to plan a visit a realistic plan being proposed newsletter. contact me; Jan on 976 0243. to deal with traffic issues aris- ment. While they will undoubt- Barkham Parish Council to see this private garden next ing from the development. In edly maximise value by building We have stressed to the develop- summer. 6 7 • a new 1,200 place secondary On another note Wokingham Bor- This leads me on to the Wokingham a sustainable and adaptable private shareholders. school ough has been identified as the Town Regeneration, Wokingham location • a new two-form entry primary number one technology hotspot town is set to grow by 4,000 • Create flexible facilities that I would like to wish all who live in school in the country, with more than homes, that’s around 10,000 new meet the needs of an increas- Barkham a very merry Christmas • public open space comprising five times the national average residents who will be living here ingly changing population and a very happy New Year and sports pitches, children’s play proportion of jobs in the tech sec- and sharing the facilities with ex- don’t forget you can contact me Create the right spaces and facili- areas and natural green space tor – the fastest growing sector in isting residents. In order to cope on any issues relating to Barkham the UK economy. the town needs to adapt and the ties for our town or Wokingham Borough Council. • financial contributions to Council regeneration proposals • Design new buildings to enhance facilities and increase support this by helping to deliver Wokingham Borough is at the reflect actual Wokingham ar- John Kaiser usage of existing areas of the infrastructure to support this natural green space heart of the drive for economic chitecture rather than generic Councillor for Barkham growth for the borough being growth Wokingham Borough Council • a new district centre featur- location home to large multi-national Email: Borough Councillor Report ing a food store and space • Replace poor 1960’s parade companies in Business Here are some of the key ben- [email protected] for facilities such as a new of buildings which lowers the Park, Thames Valley Business efits of the planned regeneration Telephone: 976 2116 The Arborfield Garrison Land GP surgery, police office and overall quality of the town Owners Consortium (AGLC) has Park, Suttons Business Park and scheme will bring: Mobile 0771 419 2352 additional community/em- • Create new pedestrianized announced it intends to withdraw Green Park, and benefits from ployment facilities public areas to support the the outline planning application a highly educated and skilled Create a sustainable and • transport measures, includ- changing face of a ‘social high for land at Arborfield Garrison population as well great trans- strengthened economic future ing new road junctions into street’ with a view to submitting a re- port links through proximity of for our town Barkham Village Hall the site and upgrades to nine vised application next year. Heathrow Airport and the M4, • Increase the area available for local junctions • Deliver retail requirements, M3 and M40. specialist events and markets Next to St James’ Church, beau- • a new cycle, footway and food and non-food, to support within the town centre Following a detailed review of tiful rural setting for weddings, bridleway network through new residents the constructive responses to Wokingham Borough Council’s • Enhance the town park with christenings and parties. the site and enhancements to • Create new jobs and support the earlier consultations, and vision is for the borough to be facilities residents want such local bus services existing employment discussions with the planning de- a ‘great place to live, an even as improved play area and From as little as £22/hr for both partment, ALC and Wokingham • retention and/or protection of better place to do business’ and • Deliver infrastructure, such as seating halls. £25/hr after 6.00 p.m. on Borough Council (WBC) have a number of existing buildings the authority’s economic devel- hotels, necessary to strength- • Increase the amount of short Saturday. agreed a mutually acceptable on site, including the MOD opment strategy aims to ensure en the town as a business stay parking in the town gymnasium and church, and the borough is a key player in the location way forward to enable locally centre and move long stay Can accommodate 175 guests and the two scheduled monu- wider UK economy, with leading agreed development aspirations • Allow us to differentiate to edges now has a new fully equipped ments at Arborfield Garrison edge innovation, a highly-skilled for the garrison site to progress. Wokingham from neighbours • Increased cycle parking in the kitchen. Plus with the benefit of and Moat House workforce and a growing knowl- A timetable for a revised applica- such as Bracknell and Reading town centre and help improve Lottery Funding a new ceiling edge-based sector set within an tion is being discussed with the • a comprehensive drainage • Establish a retail mix which links to public transport and lighting have been installed attractive environment to live and revised application expected to system to minimise any risk strengthens the Market and which can be fully dimmable for do business. be submitted early in 2014. of flooding and control the independent offers in the There is no doubt we need to en- evening celebrations. rate at which water draining town sure that the town centre reflects from the development will The borough’s high tech success the aspiration of the residents of Continuing its commitment to • Encourage investment in If you are a group who needs reach local streams and rivers has been revealed in the Tech Wokingham borough and to have local consultation AGLC has Wokingham and retain our somewhere to meet on a regular Monitor UK report compiled by a fit for purpose vibrant town at now confirmed that where any • comprehensive financial con- profile as one of the best towns basis why not use your local vil- leading global financial infor- the centre of the borough to en- changes to the master plan or tributions from the developer in the UK lage hall, we have plenty of tables mation service company Markit sure the future of the town as a other aspects of the application to provide additional on and and chairs and spacious car park together with KPMG and Its destination place for us all. are submitted further consulta- off site facilities & infrastruc- Support and strengthen Wok- and grounds for use during the research has used a new method tions will take place. ture. ingham’s community summer. We offer very competi- for tracking job creation and To do this it is important we tive rates for regular users. I for one will continue to fight economic growth. This research • Create a town that meets resi- Just to recap the scope of the have long term control for the Barkham’s corner to ensure we has shown the tech sector has dents’ aspirations and reduces benefit of the town rather than planned development for the Further information can be ob- keep our identity as a village outperformed other sectors in need to travel elsewhere the developer and the proposed Arborfield Garrison (of which tained from the parish council and defend it from unsuitable terms of job hiring and output • Encourage community inter- plans does this by creating a self- over 75% is within the parish of web site with photographs of planning which puts unaccepta- growth as well as highlighting the action by creating spaces for funding project which does not Barkham) here are the key aspects the hall plus a calendar with ble strains on infrastructure and local areas, such as Wokingham socialising, recreation and rely on the public purse to sup- of the development: availability. Please contact Judith destroys the very reason why borough, that have been key in events plement spend. This will ensure most of us have chosen to live in this success, all of which can only Neuhofer on 979 0296 or email • Up to 3500 homes, (current • Create homes for life to al- the profits and returns benefit the [email protected] application for 2000 houses) Barkham. be good news for Wokingham. low more people to live in community rather than going to 8 9 cold, wet or windy when it is Our next event will be the quiz up their time to support us. I am good to get together with our evening and as I am writing this sure you will agree with me that neighbours. we have sold the sixteen tables it would be flat if we did not have and are looking forward to an- an accompaniment. By now, many of you will have swering the questions and play- planted the bulbs and are hop- ing our joker cards to our benefit. So please wrap up warm, bring ing that you will have a glorious your torches (carol sheets sup- display in the spring, unless On Friday 20th December it will plied), voices and money for the Social Matters like me you have a squirrel that be our final event of 2013- the collection. seems to think it is a good idea Carols in the Park. We will meet Now that the clocks have been put to undo all my good work. This as usual at the junction of The May I, on behalf of the social com- back, the warm and sunny days year I seem to have grown many Woodlands and The Junipers at mittee, wish you all a very Happy of last summer seem a lifetime strange plants but I expect many 7pm. We will be accompanied by Christmas and a Prosperous New away. We have now had children were from seeds that he or she the Berkshire Maestros Breaka- Year and we look forward to see- knocking on the door – ‘trick or had taken from my bird feeders way Brass Band again this year ing you in 2014 at the events that treating’ and fireworks seem to be last autumn. Hopefully, the lawn and there will be mulled wine we plan for you. going off every evening. What a has been cut for the last time and and mince pies when we get to shame that the nights are either The Junipers field. As we do not Judith Collins charge for this event there will be a bucket collection in aid of the musicians who kindly give

the leaves which seem to fall for ever have been collected.

In early October your social com- mittee arranged another family skittles evening in the village hall and about 60 people attended. Participants were in teams and ‘Snowball’ won consisting of Penny, Andrew, Hugh and Wil- liam Franklin and Tim Clarke. The highest score was obtained by two contestants – Richard and Dick. After a ploughman’s supper we had a game of killer and this was won by Richard Sylvester – there must be something in the name! - though nobody really lost as when you died you were given a choc ice to cheer you up.

10 11 Everyone is welcome to join Loddon Valley Ramblers on any of Arborfield Local History Society these walks. Another year draws to an end October saw Jason Wooderers non-members on payment of a and I am not sure where it went – present “Local Berkshire His- nominal fee (£2-00). Please come Just turn up at the start or phone the leader for more details. probably a result of getting older tory in the 16TH/18th Century along and you will be made very Please wear appropriate clothing & footwear. and time seemingly accelerating. – as part of his PHD studies, welcome. Jason delved into local records For more walks visit Loddon Valley Ramblers Website: We have had a busy few months including a large amount from We have more than 70 active www.lvra.org.uk with our regular monthly meet- Arborfield. members and usually have 30 to ings and Summer Social Events. 40 present at our meetings. Then in November, Ken Fostekew Thursday 12th December: Pangbourne College & River Pang, 5 miles. 10.30 from June saw one of our members, from the Berkshire Museum of I am currently putting together Station Road Car Park, (£1.10 for 3 hours) centre of Pangbourne next to Copper Inn, (RG8 Barbara Carr, give a fascinat- Aviation gave a detailed presen- our programme for 2014/15 – if 7AR). Leader – Ellen H. 07715 553979. ing talk on “Finding her long tation of Berkshire Aviation His- anyone has any ideas or requests, Thursday 19th December: Shottesbrooke Farm and Park, Waltham St Lawrence & lost sister”, where separated by tory. This focused particularly on please let me know. Pitlands Farm, 5½ miles. 10.30 after roadside parking near St John’s Church, Littlewick adoption some 60 years ago, she Woodley but also included the in- Green, (SL6 6QN). Leader – Alan B. 0118 961 6595. undertook to find her. By all ac- tensive involvement of Berkshire Finally, we all know that traffic Thursday 2nd January: Ockwells, Stud Green & Paley Street through flat farmland, 6 counts, a well-attended meeting in aircraft manufacture during the speed through the village is a big miles. 10.30 from Ockwells Park, Ockwells Road, Cox Green; Car Park is 20 metres from the and her talk was fascinating. In Second World War and the build concern. Well it seems that this up to the Normandy Invasion. junction with Cox Green Road, (SL6 3YX). Leader – Graham C. 07719 993787. July, John Mullaney told us about is nothing new; this report was Thursday 9th January: Crowthorne & Broadmoor returning via Wildmoor Heath, 5 ½ the influx of French refugees in published in the Reading Mer- Reading in the lead up to French Future events include: miles. 10.00 from Morgan Centre Car Park, Lower Broadmoor Road, Crowthorne, (RG45 cury on Saturday, 9th June 1900. Revolution. Again, a very well 7LA). Leader – Jane T. 07899 734799. December 2nd – Christmas Din- researched topic and interesting Jack Wilmott, of Silver Street, Thursday 16th January: Littlewick Green, Hall Place College & Ashley Hill, 4 ½ miles. talk. I had no idea that there was ner at Bearwood Lakes Golf 10.30 from Car Park of Dew Drop Inn, Hurley (near Littlewick Green), (SL6 6RB). Registered Club. After a couple of years, Reading, was summoned for so much remaining in Reading driving furiously at Arborfield, assistance dogs only, please! Leader – Barbara C. 0118 940 3158. many members were looking that resulted from this “invasion”. on April 28th. Sunday 19th January: A stroll through woods, glades & fields north of Slough, 5 miles. for a change of venue and it 10.00 from Burnham Beeches Nature Reserve Car Park, Leader – David R. 01344 777890. was decided to return to Bear- In July, we had our annual Gar- wood Lakes . Details of cost Furious Driving Thursday 23rd January: Swallowfield Park, Thatcher’s Ford & meadows at the confluence den Party, again kindly hosted and menus will be available of the Whitewater & Blackwater Rivers, 6 ½ miles. 10.00 from Riseley Memorial Hall Car by Sheila Bunce; a great social at our next meetings. PC Jeffreys and Samuel Jarvis, a Park, Odiham Road, (RG7 1YB). Additional parking round the corner at The Bull at Riseley if afternoon with delightful food farmer, proved the offence, stated that and drinks. Despite the forecasts, January 6th – Our member Ray you’ll be visiting after the walk. Registered assistance dogs only, please! Leaders – Silvia & the defendant drove at a rate of 20 the weather was kind to us until it Lancaster will present “Things Ricardo S. 07846 434861. miles an hour and fell out of his cart. was time to go, when the heavens Ceremonial” relating to his Sunday 26th January: Through the Coombes, past Barkham Manor, on to Barkham Church army service and subsequent & back through Limmerhill, 5 miles. 10.30 from the Bearwood Road end of Coombes Lane, opened – I got soaked. On the 5th August, we had our annual involvement with the local The Defendant, who did not appear, Barkham after careful parking in the Lane, (RG41 4SU). Leader – Janet R. 07968 080139. outing, this time to Portsmouth, British Legion. was fined 20s and 11s.6d costs and Sunday 2nd February: The Coombes & Carter’s Hill; winter woodland, fields & tracks, a fascinating city with its naval February3rd – Steve Bacon will in default, 14 days hard labour. 6 miles. 10.00 after careful parking in Coombes Lane, off Bearwood Lane, Barkham, (RG41 history and much more besides. tell us about Thomas Har- 4SU). Leader – Chris R. 07710 534818. The pity was that it was not as greaves, who is understood Speeding drivers may not nowa- Sunday 9th February: Bowsey Hill & Juddmonte Farm, 4 ½ miles. 10.30 from lay-by well supported as we hoped, with to have been a colourful local days fall out of their cars but may near former Seven Stars pub on Bath Road, A4, at Knowl hill, (RG10 9UR). Leaders – Ian & only 32 members and guests trav- character. it not be a good idea to have hard Marianne M. 07429 337369. elling. With this in mind, we are labour as a punishment, perhaps Our year draws to a close on Sunday 23rd February: From Knowl Hill to Shottesbrooke Park & Waltham St Lawrence looking for ideas for future trips, a better deterrent to points on March 3rd, when Janet Firth from 10.30 from outside David Hunt Tools, (RG10 9UR) after parking in former any thoughts please let me know. their licence. & back, 6 miles. Barkham will present “The Parish Seven Stars pub lay-by or in vehicle park adjacent to nearby footbridge on north side of A4. of Barkham (The Archaeological Lastly, may I wish all members Leaders – Pat & Daphne P. 07785 331375. At the beginning of September, Aspect). Thursday 6th March: , Stanlake Manor, skirting Broad Hinton housing estate, we had a talk by John Harrison a happy Christmas and a pros- Stanlake Meadow & back, 6 miles. 10.30 from Harehatch Garden Centre (opposite Wyvale), on “The History of Bell Ringing in perous New Year. Meetings are usually held on the Ray Hill overflow Car Park to left of entrance near London Road / A4 junction, Harehatch, (RG10 9HW). Wokingham”. Again, a fascinat- ing topic and I for one learned a first Monday of each month in 976 0784 Permission obtained so please patronise cafe & shop! Leader – Barbara D. 0118 934 5506 / lot from the evening. the Arborfield Village Hall, com- [email protected] 07895 635001 (mob. on day of walk only). mencing at 19:45 and are open to 12 13 some people [do] not believe it [to Friday Club be] true.’ ‘Wow, what’s it like?’ and you go, ‘I don’t know, I’ve Friday Club is a weekly youth never read it.’ It would be an odd club for children in school years thing wouldn’t it? So, at the very 6-10. Run by volunteers from Ar- least, read it.” borfield and Barkham Churches, our aim each week is to have fun, That first Christmas, some shep- play games, hang out with friends herds working outside Bethlehem old and new, and hear a short talk Numbers - This is the time of year There is a change in the way peo- heard an announcement from from the Bible. Have you heard God, as the angel proclaimed, when we look at our stats for the ple are contacting us. Although “Do not be afraid. I bring you first 6 months of the year (April the same numbers of people are the good news? From November 2013, Friday to September 2013) and compare still dropping in to see us in per- good news of great joy that will Club will be moving into Barkham Do you have an hour or so to be for all the people.” them with a year ago (April to son, there has been an increase On a recent Desert Island Discs, Village Hall after many years at spare each week? Maybe you are September 2012). We have seen a in people emailing us (up to 12% comedian Lee Mack made a fas- the Scouts Hut on Evendons Lane. recently retired and would like to 12% increase in new clients (up to from 9%) and a drop in people cinating comment about the fact Have you ever heard that good We meet on Fridays during term give some time to the local com- 2,238 from 2,004) and a change in phoning us (down to 44% from that, like all castaways, he would news? If you have only ever time from 7:00 – 8:30pm, and there munity? Perhaps your children the top problem issue. It is now 47%). be given a Bible. thought that God wants to spoil is a weekly sub of £1. On most are at school? Maybe you are welfare benefits. A year ago it your life, or that Christianity is weeks, we also run a small tuck not in employment and would was debt. This is not surprising Of course, not all of our client’s all about keeping the rules, then shop where sweets and drinks like to keep busy while you are “I’m glad you get the Bible, be- with all the changes to welfare issues are that simple! cause I would read the Bible. I I’m afraid you have picked up can be bought. looking for your next job? Maybe benefits that have happened, and think it’s quite odd that people the wrong message. you work shifts and would like will be happening over the next John Ferguson like myself, in their forties, are All young people in school years a voluntary role which can fit year, or so. As far as Barkham is quite happy to dismiss the Bible, This Christmas at Barkham, we 6-10 are most welcome! around them? If the answer to concerned there was a very slight but I’ve never read it. I always will be proclaiming and celebrat- any of these questions is yes, increase in new clients from 32 to think that if an alien came down ing what the Bible claims to be For more information, then the Wokingham Community 33 in the six months. and you were the only person the best news in the whole world. contact Jake Eggertsen Transport Scheme needs you! All they met, and they said, ‘What’s We would therefore love you to ([email protected]), or check out you need is your own car - there life about? What’s earth about? join us for one of our Christmas the website: is no cost to you as we reimburse Tell us everything,’ and you said, services to find out more. For if all your expenses. The Scheme you never stopped to find out provides low cost transport for ‘Well, there’s a book here that http://bit.ly/HX9Gai purports to tell you everything. what life is all about, it would be the elderly to hospital, local doc- Some people believe it to be true; an odd thing wouldn’t it? tors, dentists, opticians, physi- otherapy and so on – and, when Julian Bidgood we have enough volunteers, some Minister of Barkham social trips. It provides an essen- tial service to clients who live in Wokingham, Barkham and Fin- Christmas Services at champstead. Drivers are called on an ad hoc basis or can volunteer St James, Barkham for a regular slot or client. For more information, please con- Carols by Candlelight 22 Dec @ 7pm tact the Wokingham Volunteer Centre on 0118 977 0749, email [email protected] , follow Children’s Carols 24 Dec @ 4pm us on Facebook or Twitter, or check out our website www.vol- Midnight Carols 24 Dec @ 11.30pm unteercentrewokingham.org.uk .

Christmas Day 25 Dec @ 10am

14 15 Wokingham Choral Society In September we held another successful Orchestra Workshop when both regular members and will be performing other players from near and far enjoyed a day working on the Rachmaninov’s Vespers music Prokofiev wrote for his ballet ‘Romeo and Juliet’. The on Saturday 22 March 2014 at photo, courtesy of one of our reg- All Saints Church, Wokingham ular horn players, Alan Greeley, at 7.30pm. Tickets £14.00 (over (alangreeleyphotography.com) Watt’s up Doc? 60s £12.50, students and under shows some of the horn section Energy price hikes are back with a 18s £5.00) enjoying the workshop. At the vengeance. But are we any more in time of writing the orchestra is tune with our electricity use? Here’s a See http://bit.ly/Nlppo for getting ready for the main event quick quiz to find out. Simply take each details. of the term, our Autumn Concert power in Watts from the graphic and at Wellington College in Novem- match it with the right appliance here: ber with Dvořák’s Cello Concerto a) Microwave and Brahms’ 4th Symphony as the principal works. Following b) Nintendo DS soon after this concert we will online via our website, or at £12 c) PC with monitor on the door. be preparing for our Christmas d) Kettle festivities. The orchestra will resume weekly e) iPod Our annual Afternoon Family rehearsals at the beginning of f) Big old Plasma TV Christmas Concert will take place January on Monday evenings g) Laptop as usual at St John’s Church in from 7.45-10pm at Our Lady’s Crowthorne on Saturday 14th- Prep School in Crowthorne when The answers might surprise you, especially if you take a poor view December at 4.30pm. It will be we will be preparing for our Easter Concert. In a departure of headphones and gaming. The a programme of seasonal music electrical energy we consume at home interspersed with carols for the from the usual format and venue, is arrived at by multiplying the power audience to sing. There will of this will be an evening of ‘Opera rating of the appliances we use in course be some old favourites Favourites’ with Yateley Choral kilowatts by the length of time we use but we are also looking forward Society, at St Swithun’s Church, them in hours. Firgrove Road, Yateley on to playing some new pieces with These figures are fairly typical for a festive flavour. Remember, Saturday 29th March – 7.45pm the listed appliances. Are yours the Complete Pest Solutions children of 16 or under go free at same? Adapted from an open day Call Now For A Fast Professional Service from a locally run business. all our concerts! The Christmas We welcome anyone who would activity created by Zoë Williams of Concert is a marvellous opportu- like to join the orchestra, subject www.superhomes.org.uk/138  Wasps.

nity to introduce young children to vacancies, and especially string Answers: 45W g) 400W f) Rats. to the excitement of hearing an players. If you are interested and 3W e) 2500W d) 160W c) 4W b) 900W a)  Mice. orchestra playing live and there are a competent player, even if  Squirrels. will be refreshments in the inter- you have taken a break from play-  Rabbits. 07990814143 val. Put it in your diary and bring ing, please get in touch or come  Bird and Rodent proofing. all the family! along to a rehearsal, if only to  Rural pest management specialists. 01189761126 listen. Our website has lots more  Member of the BASC. Tickets for the concert will be information and contact details:  Control methods and the safe use of Rodenticides. available at £10 in advance www.crowthorneorchestra.com from Traveltime travel agents in Crowthorne High Street and Chris Gadsby 16 17

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TEL: 0118 9788562 -­‐ MOB: 07572 110 799 French Polishing Modern Finishes Repair and restoration of all furniture Removal damage & Insurance work Free estimates All work guaranteed 0118 973 4959 Mobile 0797 375 9091 The views expressed in this newsletter, unless signed by a BVRA committee member, are not necessarily those of the Barkham Village Residents Association Copyright © 2013 Barkham Village Residents Association. Extracts may be reproduced if the source is acknowledged. 20