Out & About Winter 2019

FREE

Winter 2019

West Berkshire, Nor th Hampshire & East Wiltshire

A Newbury News Ltd publication

Choose local West Berkshire cheeses are a tasty treat

Flying high A visit to the Hawk Conservancy

Gifts galore From stocking fillers to special somethings

Fashion Food Features Gardening Travel Competitions

GERALDINE GARDNER

EDITOR

I t’s that time of year when the winter coat comes out of the cupboard and scarves and gloves are at the ready. As there is a bit of a nip in the air, we’ve selected some winter coats, as well as some sparkly party dresses, on our fashion pages (p8) to inspire you. Like all seasons, winter has its own particular charm, with the crisp, frosty sunny mornings and the excuse for warming comfort food. It is a time of feasting and one of the go-to favourites – certainly in our household – is a cheeseboard to graze on as we catch up on all the silly family TV programmes that fill the schedule and play the board games that get their annual outing. Cheese Etc. is an award-winning cheese shop and deli in Pangbourne where you can choose from the old favourites as well as a wide range of local artisan cheeses. Charlotte Booth visited the shop and some of the local cheese producers who supply them (p32) and discovered several new varieties to tempt you. And if you’re wondering what to drink with your cheese choices, Romain Bourger makes some recommendations, including a beer (p54). We’ve also got some sumptuous recipes from Mrs B’s and Lonely Lentil, a warming beetroot borchst and a filling vegan pie (p50). If you do over-indulge and need to walk off those extra calories, I would recommend a visit to the Hawk Conservancy near Andover (p68). It’s a great family

day out and watching these magnificent birds flying over your head, like an Olympic-trained synchronised team of athletes, is a wondrous sight. If you just want to stretch your legs, then the Living Landscapes walk is well worth a try (p95) leading you around the public pathways of Thatcham and Newbury and taking in a bit of history along the way. If the weather prevents you from getting outside, how about making some decorations for the Christmas tree? Gillian Hicks of Dragon’s Hoard shows you how to make some sparkling stars (p86). Or if you’re looking for other entertainment, then we have the usual round up of what’s on in the area and Trish Lee talks to Adam Brown and Clare Plested, who used to perform as a double act in the Corn Exchange pantomime, about getting back together again to write this year’s offering Sleeping Beauty (p58). It is also the season of giving and we’ve come up with some ideas in our six-page gift guide, including some eco-friendly choices (p26); there are some alternative suggestions for children, away from the screens and computer games, on our education page (p23), a couple of book recommendations (p85) and Thomas Forrester says you needn’t spend a fortune when choosing a piece of jewellery for someone special – there are bargains to be had at auction (p65). We’ll be back in the spring, but in the meantime enjoy the winter season and a happy new year to you all.

Editor’s picks

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

Cover picture

Gifts are for giving

Bird sanctuary

33 CHEESE PLATE

24 GIFT GUIDE

54 FLYING HIGH

Who doesn’t love a tasty bit of cheese - whether at the end of a festive feast or just as a snacktime treat. And there are plenty of local choices

Some ideas to inspire, as well as a look at some of the more eco-friendly gifts on offer

The Hawk Conservancy near Andover puts on a dazzling display of avian aerobatics

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CONTENTS

7 Local view: Treat a loved one to a trip to Paris 8 Fashion: Party season glitz and winter coats 12 Style: Jason Palmer hairdressing salon 15 Health & Beauty: Keep your skin glowing FEATURES 26 Gift guide: from stocking fillers to eco-friendly suggestions 32 Say cheese: a range of local cheeses, all available at the award-winning Cheese Etc., Pangbourne 58 A laugh a minute: Plested & Brown pen this year’s Corn Exchange panto 68 Bird watching: a visit to the Hawk Conservancy near Andover is both educational and fun WELLBEING 17 Fitness: don’t give up on your winter regime 21 Mental health: Recover in mind offers a new support programme 23 Education: be mindful about what you give your children this Christmas FOOD & DRINK 44 Restaurant review: The Coppa Club at The Swan at Streatley 47 Pop inn: The Great Shefford 48 Café culture: healthy eating, a cup of tea and homemade cake 50 Recipes: Mrs B’s Kitchen and Lonely Lentil offer some warming suggestions 53 Fish news: Ling is tasty and value-for money 54 Top tipples: winter recommendations

Winter 2019

A Newbury News Ltd publication

LIFESTYLE 65 Antiques: the gift of antique jewellery 72 Interiors: hints and tips to spruce up the home 76 Gardening: look after the wildlife 80 Travel: new year sun in the Maldives 83 Motors: winter driving LEISURE 85 Book review: The Italian Teacher is an entertaining treat; and there’s a new book on The Boxford Mosaic 86 How to: make some sparkly Christmas stars 89 What’s on: a round-up of local winter events 95 Outdoors: take a Living Landscape walk 97 Star gazing: winter night sky COMPETITION 41 Win: a bottle of Highclere Castle Gin and a signed copy of Christmas at Highclere by Lady Carnarvon

Cover photograph: Cheese Etc., Pangbourne Photographer: Phil Cannings

TO ADVERTISE IN OUT&ABOUT Abigail Reddin 01635 886612 abigail.reddin@newburynews.co.uk

General competition rules: The winner(s) will be the first entry(ies) drawn with the correct answer. In the event that a winner must be notified quickly and is unavailable on the daytime number provided, another winner may have to be chosen. Newbury News & Media Limited employees, and

employees directly involved in the competition, and their families, are not eligible to enter. The editor’s decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. Responsibility not accepted for entries lost or torn in the post. Postal entries must be on the original form. There are no cash alternatives to the prize.

@outnaboutberks

Read our digital edition at

GROUP EDITOR ANDY MURRILL (01635) 886625 ANDY.MURRILL@NEWBURYNEWS.CO.UK OUT&ABOUT EDITOR GERALDINE GARDNER (01635) 886684 GERALDINE.GARDNER@NEWBURYNEWS.CO.UK ADVERTISING ABIGAIL REDDIN (01635) 886612 ABIGAIL.REDDIN@ NEWBURYNEWS.CO.UK PRODUCTION DESIGN CARRIE FAITHFULL, HELEN LAYTON PHOTOGRAPHY PHIL CANNINGS PUBLISHED ON THURSDAY 21ST NOVEMBER, OUT&ABOUT IS A QUARTERLY MAGAZINE, PUBLISHED BY NEWBURY NEWS & MEDIA LTD, NEWSPAPER HOUSE, FARADAY ROAD, NEWBURY, BERKSHIRE RG14 2AD

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Are you aware of someone who goes above and beyond to support their local community? If so NOMINATE them for a NBS Community Champion Award! AWARDS COMMUNITY CHAMPION NBS 2020

Who are the awards for?

Overall winner will recieve a £500 voucher of their choice and a £500 donation to the charity or project they support. To nominate visit: www.newbury.co.uk or collect a nomination form in branch. Nominations close: 5pm, Friday 17 January 2020 Terms and conditions apply Awards are open to unpaid volunteers, aged 16 and over, who support local charities or community groups based in our 10 branch towns. The prize! The overall winner will receive a £500 voucher of their choice and a £500 donation to the charity or project they support , while two runners up will receive a £125 voucher of their choice and a £125 donation to the charity or project they support.

Newbury Building Society is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority (Financial Services Register number 206077). English Law applies and we willcommunicate with you in English. We are participants of the Financial Ombudsman Service. We have a complaints procedure which we will provide on request. Most complaints that we cannot resolve can be referred to the Financial Ombudsman Service. Newbury Building ociety is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by th Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority (Financial Services Register numbe 206077). English Law applies a d we will communicate with you in E glish. We are participants of the Fina cial Ombudsman Service. We have a complaints procedure which we will provide on request. Most complaints that we cannot resolve can be referred to the Financial Ombudsman Service. 7617 Call: 01635 555777 | Visit: www.newbury.co.uk To nominate visit: newbury.co.uk/community_champion_awards Nominations closing: 5pm, Friday 17 January 2020

Newbury Building Society Newbury Building Society

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LOCAL VIEW

JONATHAN HOPSON

A trip to Paris earlier this year, has inspired JONATHAN HOPSON to recommend a visit to the city as a very special present for a loved one

F or those on a quest for a romantic gift with a difference, a trip to Paris this Christmas could well fit the bill. Art lovers will be well catered for with a special exhibition, Degas at the Opera , showing until January 19, 2020, at the strikingly beautiful Musée d’Orsay on the Left Bank. Degas was a frequent visitor at the old Paris Opera House and is famous for his pictures that capture the precision of dancers’ movements. Many of these pictures feature in the exhibition including Dance Class . The Louvre is staging a Leonardo da Vinci exhibition until February 24, 2020. The culmination of 10 years work, this exhibition brings together many of Da Vinci’s masterpieces and includes 22 of his drawings. Less well-known than the Notre Dame, but well worth a visit, is Saint Eustache church in the heart of Paris. Anna Maria Mozart, mother to Wolfgang Amadeus, is buried here, as is the baroque composer Jean Philippe Rameau. Paris is not just home to some of the most famous fashion

designers and the glitziest shopping streets, it also offers many opportunities to pick up second-hand fashion bargains. For fashionistas with a penchant for searching out keen bargains, try Hippy Market shop on Rue du Temple, just around the corner from the Pompidou Centre. On a family visit to Paris earlier this year, we were able to buy second-hand branded shirts for €20, leather jackets for €40 and my personal favourite, a leather portfolio case for only €30.

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1 . Dance Class 2. Musée d’Orsay 3. The Louvre 4. Notre Dame 5. Pompidou Centre

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FASHION

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Light up the room and look party perfect

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1. EARRINGS RIVER ISLAND £12 DRESS F&F £35 SHOES TK MAXX £39.99 2. DRESS RIVER ISLAND £65 SHOES NEW LOOK £27.99 3. DRESS TK MAXX £69.99 SHOES HEAD OVER HEELS £53 4. DRESS NEW LOOK £27.99 SHOES OFFICE £59 5. DRESS TK MAXX £16.99 SHOES RIVER ISLAND £38

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FASHION

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1. JUMP SUIT RIVER ISLAND £60 SHOES RIVER ISLAND £48 EARRINGS RIVER ISLAND £10 2. JUMP SUIT EVANS £55 SHOES EVANS £36 3. DRESS OASIS £55 SHOES TK MAXX £16.99 4. DRESS FIFI & MOOSE £229.95 SHOES M&S £29.50

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FASHION

Coats of many c o l o u r s The chill can be kept at bay if you wrap up with this selection of winter warmers

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1. LEOPARD PRINT COAT M&S £59 BOOTS DUNE £140

2 . GREEN COAT PRIMARK £18 3. PINK FUR COAT MATALAN £40 BOOTS DEBENHAMS £42 4. ORANGE COAT GEORGE £40 5. BLUE FUR COAT DEBENHAMS £95 BLUE BOOTS TK MAXX £17.99 6. COAT MATALAN £40 MOC CROC BOOTS NEXT £55 7. YELLOW COAT OASIS £90 BUCKLE BOOTS DOROTHY PERKINS £45 8. CHECK BLAZER RIVER ISLAND £65 BOOTS FAITH £79 9. STONE BELTED MAC NEW LOOK £49.99 BOOTS NEXT £65 10. BLUE COAT TK MAXX £49.99 BOOTS M&S £49.50 11. RED COAT NEXT £58 MUSTARD BOOTS M&S £35

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FASHION

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HAIR Jason Palmer

The luxury Newbury hair studio that is dedicated to making clients feel their best

T he florist replenishes an abundance of vases with beautiful, fragrant blooms. The smell of fresh coffee wafts by as an assistant delivers another cafetiere- laden tray. If coffee is not your complimentary drink of choice then maybe one of the 10 teas or even a glass of wine would fit the bill? Biscuits are included and almost every magazine and newspaper awaits to add to your ultimate salon experience. Aromatic scents gently circulate around both the

way, where natural movement and shape can be both seen and built upon to create the most accurate, repeatable and bespoke cut.” After his years in London the beautiful building that is the home of Jason Palmer Hairdressing became vacant and he jumped at the chance to return to it, having previously had a salon there between 1991 and 1999 – this time bringing an even greater wealth of knowledge back to Newbury.

The huge windows of these beautiful 18th century cottages allow colourists Emily and Tiffany the wealth of natural light essential to creating true colour choices. “My motivation is to make people feel their best,” Jason adds. “I want to be able to offer clients a luxury experience in a comfortable, friendly and welcoming environment. “Everything is geared around creating a bespoke style that is right for each client. There are no real trend followers anymore just people with an individual style who are happy to be guided to what suits them best. “I want clients to leave with a haircut that is precise enough that they can maintain it themselves for the next six weeks, where the shape is in the cut and not just the blow dry.” In the early years, Jason’s waiting list was 12 months long with a cancellation your only way to secure an earlier appointment but gradually he expanded the salon to cope with the demand, building his teams in both cutting and technical services. And when only the best and most trusted hairdresser will do on your special day, Jason is on hand, having travelled far and wide to create the perfect wedding hair. He has been flown to exotic climes such as South Africa, Monaco and Ibiza, Italy and Spain over the years. With online booking, a salon app and a front of house reception team, you can now book your appointments whenever is most convenient for you. “At Jason Palmer Hairdressing we are motivated every day to ensure we as a team do our very best to look after our clientele and their hair needs,” Jason concludes.

cutting salon on the ground floor and the naturally-lit colour studio on the first floor, where technical services take place more privately and away from public view. On arrival Angela behind reception greets you with her warm smile and welcoming nature as your coat is safely stowed. This is exactly the welcome that Jason Palmer wants every single client to get when they come through his salon doors – and this is exactly the welcome every single client gets. This is a salon with a difference. A precise and delicate difference – the client experience is as bespoke as the cuts and colours created here. Having been enticed into the industry 30 years ago after a chance meeting in Brighton, Newbury-born Jason spent years perfecting his unique style at salons across West Berkshire and London. It was at one of the capital’s most prestigious West End salons that he was able to push himself even further and learn the intricate skills of precision cutting that would go on to set his salon apart on his return to Newbury in 2005. “We offer precision cutting at a very high standard,” he explains. “It comes from a unique way of dry cutting, which is very architectural. Every layer should sit perfectly on the next. “It has become a very specialist skill that not many stylists are able to offer as it has been passed down through specific generations of cutters from Leonard’s of London, to John Freida, to Nicky Clarke and his brother Michael Van Clarke, and then to myself and Joseph, who has worked as a senior stylist at the salon since 2006. “It is about dry cutting clean hair sectioned in a specific

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Out&About style Advertisement Feature

“My motivation is to make people feel their best, I want to be able to offer clients a luxury experience in a comfortable, friendly and welcoming environment. ”

Opening times: Monday - closed Tuesday - Thursday 9am-6pm

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HEALTH & BEAUTY From an Advent calendar selection of makeup goodies to a shimmering stocking filler, you can treat yourself or a friend. And during party season it’s important to keep your skin hydrated, Olay has a range of products to keep your skin and eyes radiant Out&About wellbeing

New day, new attitude 24 days of Sleek treats? We’re in! This Advent calendar contains the ultimate selection of bestsellers and must-have exclusives. Everything is included from your makeup essentials to some bold choices, so you can choose a new look every day. RRP £40 (available from Boots and other high street retaile rs)

Stocking filler Layer Up

Transform any look with this do-it-all, ultra-shimmering Loose Pigment designed for use on eyes, lips and cheeks. Wear alone or layer over your favourite look for maximum impact. RRP £5

It’s the festive season and you may find yourself more on the go than usual – parties straight after work, meet ups with friends and family going late into the night. Keeping your skin hydrated is essential and Olay has come up with a range of products – all available on the high street.

Olay eyes deep hydrating eye gel An almost essential item during late night party season. Using skincare heavyweight ingredients like hyaluronic acid and niacimamide/vitamin B3, this turquoise coloured treasure delivers powerful results to the delicate eye area and enables you to enjoy 24 hours of nonstop hydration for a wide-awake look, giving your eyes an instant moisture boost. RRP £24.99

Olay ultimate hydration essences This Facial Mist collection will give you an instant boost of hydration on the go. Available in two variants; Energising to hydrate and revitalise skin and Calming to hydrate and soothe skin, these wonder mists will spruce up your make-up. Packed with hydrators and botanical super-ingredients vitamin C, bergamot, aloe leaf and chamomile, as well as fresh fragrances, these refreshers are a handbag must have. RRP £13.99

Olay whips Available in three variants, Regenerist, Total Effects and Luminous, Olay Whips moisturisers introduce Active Rush Technology™ which has the ability to hold and quickly release 1000x its weight in hydration and active ingredients. This best-selling moisturiser is the perfect alternative to primer to cut your prep time in half. Now also available with SPF to keep you protected on the go. RRP £34.99

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LEARN TO DRAW AND PAINT Vouchers available ideal gift for birthdays & special occasions BRING OUTYOUR INNER ARTIST

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Fun lessons suitable for absolute beginners or improvers Acquire the skills you need to produce paintings you can be proud of! St Marys Church Hall NEWBURY

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WEST BERKSHIRE COMMUNITY HOSPITAL LEAGUE OF FRIENDS

Dr Evans is a consultant Doctor with a special interest in liver Disease. He approached the league of friends at West Berkshire Community Hospital asking if we would be able to fund a liver scanner just for this hospital.

League of Friends: Dates for your Diary Christmas Carol Service: Location: St Mary’s Church, Thatcham Date: 4th December 2019, 7.30pm Please join us afterwards for complimentary srefreshments and mince pies. Grand Christmas Raffle: £250 First Prize, £150 Second Prize, £100 Third Prize Draw takes place: 16th December 2019 at the Hospital.

The scanner is used to detect Liver disease which is not always due to alcohol and not easy to detect by blood tests but easily seen on a scan. We the league have fulfilled his request by fund raising over the last year and have now been able to purchase it. The scanner will now start being used by Dr Evans in his clinics at west Berkshire Community hospital.

If you are unable to attend any of our fundraising events or would like to support the League by donating please visit: Wonderful.org where you can ‘Make a Donation’ to West Berkshire Community Hospital League of Friends. If you would like to keep up-to-date with our news and events please find us on facebook. Registered Charity Number: 246183

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Out&About wellbeing

FITNESS

The winter months can be a challenging time of year as Christmas throws routine out of the window, exercise and nutrition are often challenged and habits broken. VICKI BROWN offers some tips to keep you on track

like, but at least you are more likely to achieve it. • Make sure you have a way to measure your progress – a lack of progress is a common reason of falling away from your goal, so make sure you are able to track and adjust when necessary. • Take lifestyle goals overall into account – most physical and wellbeing goals involve awareness of exercise, overall activity, nutrition, sleep and recovery, stress and happiness. Figure Out Which Habits Work For You • Think of the small choices you can make every day, regardless of the time of year. • Get yourself moving by doing whatever it is that you find fun, dancing while you are doing the ironing or jumping on a trampoline (not while you’re ironing!) – all these things count towards your daily activity. • What helps you relax? – think about the things that you like to do that make you feel more relaxed, maybe going for a walk, reading a book, having a bath. Try and incorporate these things into your weekly routine.

Tips to end 2019 and kickstart 2020 The Festive Season

• Be prepared to adapt – one of the biggest challenges faced by many at this time of year is all the events that change your usual routine. Consider working out in different ways or using other methods. If time is short, motivation lacking and you find it harder to get to the gym, you may need to look at different options – perhaps a home workout, increasing your walking or heading out locally for a jog. • Allow yourself to enjoy the festivities and have fun. The pleasures of this time of year are to be enjoyed, but remember the boring ‘moderation’ term really does help to keep your overall goals in reach. New Year Habits • Set yourself short-, medium- and long-term goals. • Be realistic – make sure your targets are appropriate to the time and energy you have to give to them. That may mean it takes longer to achieve a goal than you ideally would

Movements You Can Do Anywhere Anytime

Wall Sit/Squat Hold If you are near a wall, rest your back against it and sit down until the angle of your knees are at 90˚. You need to make sure your feet are far enough away from the wall for this to happen. Hold this position for as long as you can. If you’re not near a wall, place your feet hip width apart, sit back, chest up, core engaged and try and hold the position for as long as possible (you could hover just above a chair for safety).

Stand on one leg Ground through the floor, engage your core before lifting the opposite foot off the ground. (to take this to a more advanced level, raise your knee up level with your hips and then take your leg back, the movement will require greater control and test your balance more)

Plank Place elbows or hands, depending on level, directly under shoulders (slightly wider than shoulder width). Ground toes into the floor and squeeze glutes to stabilise your body and engage your core. Look at a spot on the floor about a foot beyond your hands to maintain a neutral spine. Hold for as long as you can, maintaining good form.

I hope these tips help you with your choices over the coming months and you all have a wonderful end of 2019 and start to 2020. If you need any help at all with any of these goals, get in touch with LiveFitNow.

Vicki Brown runs: LiveFitNow, Wash Common, Newbury. Telephone: 07879 447829. www.LiveFitNow.co.uk

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Abstract® Bodyworks Personal Training Life without Weakness

So 10,000 steps BS is made up! BBC’s Michael Mosley has just found out † what we have known for 40 years – there are fitness fads and there is real exercise. At Abstract Bodyworks we can help anyone improve their strength, cardio, and bone density in as little as 15 minutes a week by undertaking properly supervised exercise that stimulates your body back to fitness

levels you enjoyed in your youth. Contact us to book your two free

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Advertisement Feature

Can’t Stick to an Exercise Routine? Read how two locals solved this problem We all know that we have to take some level of responsibility for keeping ourselves healthy in all sorts of ways; good eating habits, limiting alcohol consumption, suf�icient sleep, and more. And when it comes to exercise we all have heard the encouragement to do more. Recently medical research has added a new guideline – ensure you are doing suf�icient weight bearing activity so you stimulate your muscles and bones to stay strong. For many people this leads to one conclusion – go to a gym – where all the equipment is available to do those kind of activities. But many people can’t abide a gym, for all sorts of reasons: x they don’t like the �inancial commitment x they can’t stand the environment of sweaty bodies and noise x they don’t know how to get the bene�it x regular sessions or classes don’t work x and more One way to overcome these and similar problems is to work out alone, either at home or in some public space, but it is so easy to let that commitment slip. Another solution is to �ind a personal trainer, but that is often perceived as expensive. Below are stories from two local Newbury people who knew they needed to improve their exercise commitment, and how they found a solution that worked for them LUCY AKHURST - I NEVER KNOW WHEN I’LL BE AVAILABLE I needed to �ind some way of incorporating effective exercise into my life because of three things. The �irst is that I need a bone strengthening program; it’s just a wise thing for a woman in her forties to do. Secondly, I hate gyms; and when I say I hate them, I mean I really hate them, so that wasn’t an option. Thirdly, my schedule is mad; I’m �ilming for Net�lix ® at the moment and am shuttling back and forth to Lithuania, never really knowing when I’m leaving. Regular exercise is great, but if your life isn’t regular, a “One Size Fits All” gym just isn’t for you. So I’m glad I found Abstract ® Bodyworks. Abstract works around me as much as it can. I sometimes �ind out my schedule for the next day at 6pm and can text and ask for a session the following morning. If they can �it me in, they do. So far, we’ve always been able to �ind some time that works. People still feel as though they have to spend hours, pounding away, several times a week to see results, so they get disheartened and drop out because it becomes a burden, and burden becomes guilt and you end up hiding and feeling dreadful: I know, I’ve been there. But this is just 15 minutes; anyone can �ind 15 minutes! Don’t get me wrong, the training is no walk in the park. You push yourself, but you are monitored every second by your trainer to make sure it is safe and effective. But if you are as interested in results as I am, you’ll �ind yourself wanting to do more each session, because you can see and feel it working on your body. And again, 15 minutes. I can cope with 15 minutes of hard exercise. I’m not interested in weight loss, but I am interested in strength and utility. I’m also interested in looking good; that’s part of my trade, after all. So with such a small investment in time I can spend the rest of my life getting on with things: I’m good with that. FRANCIS CUBITT - I’VE NEVER STUCK WITH ANYTHING ELSE We all know we need exercise, especially as middle age lumbers on. Some friends love it but not I - too boring. I tried the 10,000 steps approach: dull but I could catch up on some reading by downloading audio books and off we go. I got through Barchester Towers and half way though Wuthering Heights but then work got busier, time shorter and a foot problem more painful. Then I tried swimming. Living in Singapore at the time I could �it in 2km three times a week and got quite �it, so back in Newbury I began cycling to the pool to do the same. Time and weather were against me here so that didn’t last long. Then I though about a rowing machine - nice idea but good ones are not cheap and besides the house is too small. Then one day I passed a doorway claiming �itness in 20 minute sessions once a week, you can even do it on the way to work, no change of clothes, no shower needed afterwards, and more. Impossible - but it works! And I understand now why it works, and 6 months on I even look forward to the sessions. Really nice trainers too. KEEPING FIT AND HEALTHY ISN’T REALLY AN OPTION We all want to live full and ful�illing lives and we all know that keeping up a certain level of �itness allows us to do that. What we don’t agree on is the way to keep �it, and in fact there is no one way. What we can agree on is that once you pick your exercise you want to be sure it can deliver the health bene�its you want, which is where personal training really comes in. Studies have shown that people are 170% more likely to stay with an exercise routine if we are supervised - and the best way of achieving quality supervision is with a personal trainer, who can provide not only supervision but expert feedback on how you are progressing. If you have struggled to start and maintain an effective exercise program, even if you are a member of a gym, you should consider getting some personal coaching to help you achieve your goals. See adver�sement on page 18 for details of how to book two free personal strength training sessions. Quote O&AQ42019

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Out&About wellbeing

MENTAL HEALTH

Founder of Recovery in Mind, ANGELA RYAN reflects on her own mental health struggles and asks ‘What’s in your shed?’

I n 2013 I became ill with a severe psychiatric illness called ‘psychotic depression’. My road to recovery led me to where I am now – running my own organisation Recovery in Mind to help other adults living in West Berkshire who experience a wide variety of mental health challenges. At its worst, I experienced hearing a voice for up to 10 hours a day, believed that I was receiving ‘messages’ from the TV and radio and saw things that weren’t real. My illness meant that I had ongoing support from my GP and the Community Mental Health Team based at Hillcroft House at the West Berkshire Hospital for around two years. In that time I was hospitalised twice – once in Winchester at a Mother & Baby Unit and another time at Prospect Park Hospital, Reading. One particular day, I looked out of my kitchen window at my garden and thought I had an answer to my difficulties. If I could have a shed in my garden housing my GP, my psychiatric nurse and the psychiatrist from Hillcroft then they would be there ‘on tap’ when I needed them. Whether I was distressed, needing support, required help on how to manage the hallucinations or simply frightened out of my skin, one of them would be with me as soon as I shouted down to them to come out of the shed. However, I soon realised several flaws to my plan. Namely, it wouldn’t be at all realistic or achievable and (the most

Our courses offer the opportunity to learn how to ‘self-manage’ mental health difficulties, sharing a range of tools, strategies, mind-sets and activities to improve confidence. And, of course, an opportunity to ‘connect’ with others. At Recovery in Mind we often use the analogy of ‘Be your own Shed’ – filling it with the tools, strategies and mind-sets to improve our mental health. You wouldn’t expect to put a fallen picture back on the wall with a mallet – you should know which tool you need for the job, how to use it and the confidence to know you can do it. My own ‘personal shed’ has a variety of ‘stuff’ to help me keep well. Like our sheds, we need different tools at different times in our lives. You are unlikely to need a strimmer if your garden is paved, or a chimney brush if you don’t have a chimney. Get the right tools for the job, learn how and when to use them and you can learn to look after your mind as you would your home – ‘Be your own Shed’. Many people experience mental health challenges – you may be reading this and thinking perhaps it’s time to fill your own ‘shed’ or know of someone who might benefit from our courses. We offer a friendly and welcoming environment. You don’t need a ‘referral’ – simply book onto our Introduction to Recovery Bitesize/Taster session on the website www.recoveryinmind. org.uk to find out whether Recovery in Mind can help you to improve your mental health & wellbeing.

challenging of the two problems) was that I would soon become so reliant upon them that I wouldn’t even be able to leave the house without one or all of them and I would never have ‘recovered’ to lead the life I so craved for. Nor would I have the confidence to take back control of my life and move forward following my own goals and aspirations. Five years on and Recovery in Mind provides free of charge courses to any adults living in West Berkshire who experience a wide range of mental health challenges. Our trainers are both people who have had their own difficulties with mental health and illness and also occupational therapists who share their professional knowledge and expertise. We are based at Broadway House and everyone who attends is referred to as a student.

Recoveryinmind.ord.uk • Follow AngelaRinm2016 on twitter

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Thursday 5th December 5pm - 8pm

With a talk by our Head of Sixth Form at 5.30pm and again at 6.30pm

SIXTH FORM OPEN EVENING in our brand new Sixth Form Centre

AMONGST THE TOP

PERFORMING STATE SIXTH FORMS IN OXFORDSHIRE WITH 63% A*-B GRADES

www.kaacademy.org • email: enquiries@kaacademy.org Twitter: @kas_wantage • 01235 225700

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Out&About wellbeing

EDUCATION

Think about Christmas presents that can bring the family together and draw your child away from screentime. AMANDA BAILEY suggests some simple alternatives

M any people recognise the key role technology plays in learning and development, however, in a recent survey 67 per cent of parents expressed concern that their child spends too much time online. They are often continuously waiting for messages on social media platforms, rewards for completing challenges or repeating a chase, fight, dodge or sequence on a video game – this means the nervous system is in a constant state of high alert. To counterbalance the chemistry frequently fostered by compulsive behaviour in this digital age, find inspiration by choosing tech-free Christmas gifts for the young people in your family. To quieten the mind, train the brain to focus on the here and now, choose art and craft materials, colouring books, construction toys, relaxation scripts, books and CDs. Build a comfort and calm box with stocking fillers such as fidget cubes and spinners, squishies, shimmies, glitter wands, liquid timers, tangles, kaleidoscopes and sensory balls. They’ll help reduce adrenalin levels, and increase calmness and relaxation. Learning to control your breath, allows an individual to reconnect with their true nature in an instant. Choose bubble pots, pin wheels, blow football and karaoke toys – all of these simple practices help you connect with your breath

A healthy body promotes a healthy mind Opt for gifts such as dance mats, bikes, trampolines or scooters. Or maybe try, paddle boarding, rock climbing or den building in the woods. There are lots of fun games too for the whole family: Headbanz, Exploding Kittens (no kittens die) and Bop it, to name just a few. Share puzzles, cook together or sign up for a special family adventure. These experiences create bonds to share long after the day has ended. Confidence and self belief are nutrition for the human mind Choose from a range of options: Unstoppable Me by Wayne Dyer, affirmation books, cards and posters. Encourage a young person’s dreams – footballer, palaeontologist, scientist, writer, chef, princess – and remember to keep expanding their horizons. What better time to invest in the whole family than the festive season? As we know, mental wellbeing like the archetypal dog, is not just for Christmas. Family time should be an all-the-year-round occurence. Here is a typical response from a concerned parent, after the first ‘Be Together’ session: ‘It’s hard to remember the last time we spent 10 minutes together, happily as a family. I can’t believe we’ve just spent an hour and a half having so much fun.’ On completing the course, the feedback was music to my ears.

Breathing tip The Box Breath is famous for being used by US Navy SEALs in difficult situations. Should you need to take a moment over Christmas for whatever life throws at you try this: 1 Take a moment to notice the physical sensations of the breath as you inhale and exhale. Breathe in for the count of four and out for the count of four 2 On the exhale, expel all the air from your lungs and count to four – try not to force your breath out 3 Breathe in through your nose into your tummy, expanding up into your chest, then collarbone for a count of four 4 Hold the breath, for a count of four – keep your shoulders down 5 Exhale through your nose for a count of four 6 Draw the four sides of a box (in- structions 2-5), to visually aid this breathing exercise. Continue this breathing pattern for 5-10 minutes – notice how much calmer you feel. If you find four counts tricky, reduce.

If you’d like to find out more, visit www.beberkshire.co.uk or send an email to: amanda@beberkshire.co.uk or call/text on 07909502667

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Thomas Forrester and The Special Auction Services Team would like to invite you for a Free Valuation of your Jewellery,

Watches, Silver, Coins, Antiques & Collectables. Call us on 01635 580595 to make an appointment

We hold a Free Valuation Day Every Wednesday at Special Auction Services 80 & 81 Greenham Business Park NEWBURY RG19 6HW Call 01635 580 595 SAS will be moving from Greenham Business Park 5pm Monday 23rd December and opening at 9am, 2nd January at their new premises in Plenty Close off Hambridge Road, Newbury RG14 5RL, we look forward to seeing you there.

Is it time you sorted through your attic? You never know what hidden treasures you might find lurking at the back of the garage or in a cupboard… Call us now on 01635 580595 to make an appointment for your FREE VALUATION!!! We hold a Free Valuation Day Every Wednesday at Special Auction Services 80 & 81 Greenham Business Park NEWBURY RG19 6HW Call 01635 580 595

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A fun for all the family Christmas Market with local stall

holders selling crafts, gifts and treats. Games, raffle, tombola and prizes to win! Refreshments, sweets, hot and cold snacks for sale.

Stall holders email k.gardner@maryhare.org.uk for a booking form; pitches from £10

Money raised at the event will support Coles Diner, Africa Trail Appeal & Happy Days voluntary club. Happy Days is a voluntary group that holds its meetings in Coles Diner at Mary Hare School. Happy Days is not a registered charity. Coles Diner is part of Mary Hare School registered charity 1048386. Mary Hare is a registered company 3085006 www.maryhare.org.uk/fundraising

Christmas Fair Sunday 1 December | 11am - 4pm Adults £1, children free

Concert: ATudor Christmas Saturday 7 December | 7.30pm Adult £14, Child £5

Christmas Children’s Parties Sunday 1 December (Fair entry £1 adults) 11.30am, 12.45pm, 2pm & 3.15pm | £5

Workshops: Silk Painted Christmas Cards Monday 18 Nov | 10.30am -12.30pm | £20

Puppet Theatre: Christmas with the Š”‡‡ ‹ŽŽ› ‘ƒ–• ”—ơ Sun 15 Dec | 11am & 1pm | Adult £9, Child £7

Concert: AChristmas Carol Monday 23 December | 7.30pm Adult £12, Child £5

ChristmasWreath Making

Festive Découpage Monday 9 Dec | 10.30am - 12.30pm | £20

Christmas Flowers Friday 20 Dec | 10am - 12.30pm | £35

3, 4 & *

5 Dec | *

10am & 6.30pm | £40

Shaw House, Church Road, Newbury, RG14 2DR | 01635 279 279 www.westberkshireheritage.org/whats-on

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GIFT GALLERY

No time like the present! Seasonal gifts from the high street and featured choices from local independent businesses

Earrings £10 Fat Face

Slippers £5 Primark

Game £6 Paperchase

Grooming set £8 M&S

Biscuits £6 National Trust

£

Tie £9.50 M&S

Ring dish £6 Paperchase

Cactus kit £10 Next

£

Veg box £9.95 White Stuff

Candle £10 Next

Books £9.99 TKMaxx

Socks £10 Dorothy Perkins

Dish £8 Sainsburys

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Male grooming kit £14 Fat Face

Hot water bottle £17.50 White Stuff

Biscuit decoration kit £12 Debenhams

£

T-shirt £12.50 M&S

Cufflinks £18 M&S

Bobble hat £17.50 Accessorize

Eau de toilette set £12 Next

£

T-shirt £20 Evans

Clutch bag £16.99 TKMaxx

Gingerbread house kit £16 National Trust

£

Chocolate selfie bars £16 Hotel Chocolat

BBQ seasonings Toolbox £16 Debenhams

Treat trio kit £15 White Stuff

Taskmaster game £20 Next

Scarf £16 Burton

£

£

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£

£

Peaky Blinders ale gift set £24.99 Very.co.uk

Christmas Port and accessories £25 Debenhams

Snake Clutch £30 Monsoon

£

Whitley Neill, Rasperry 70cl with glass £30 Debenhams

Rhubarb & Vanilla Diffuser £22 Laura Ashley

Hat £29.50 M&S

Pen set £22 Laura Ashley

£

Advent calendar £40 Cath Kidston

£

Belt £35 Dune

Flannel Check PJ Bottoms £35 White Stuff

Hat £40 Dune

Cushion £32 Laura Ashley

Bird House £35 National Trust

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Spinning Tops – Personalise for a loved one £9.70-£26.50 Love HeartWood www.loveheartwood.co.uk

Tiger 5 Piece Bamboo Dinnerware Set Rex London £15.95

Make your own beeswax wraps kit - £9 Beeswax food wrap starter pack - £14.50 www.thislittleb.com

Bamboo travel mug from £10 Mrs B’s Kitchen www.mrsb.kitchen See page 34

Metal Rustic Reindeer £12.99 Pipachio www.pipachioathome.co.uk See page 30

Personalise Wooden Acorn Ornaments From £9.70 Love HeartWood www.loveheartwood.co.uk See page 31

Metal straws £6 River Island

£

Water bottle £15 Accessorize

featured choices from local independent businesses and other gift ideas

Wooden chopping boards £20-£60 www.waneyedgewoodcraft.co.uk See page 31

£

How to Build A Snowman Kit £14.50 www.rolypolyplay.com

Emma Roy www.jewellerybyemmaroy.co.uk See page 31

£

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O]\\af_ >dgo]jk œ :gmim]lk œ :mllgf`gd]k BUTTERCUPS & DAISIES

We can help you to celebrate your special day. Your wedding is unique, so we pride ourselves on our ÆM`QJQTQ\a \W UMM\ aW]Z ZMY]QZMUMV\[

Berkshire Framing Company is located at Riverside Studios, Lower Way Farm, Thatcham. If you need inspiration, ideas, or advice on how to protect and present your artwork, photography or memorabilia then we’re here to help. • Picture framing • Mount cutting • Picture cleaning & restoration • Mirrors • Replacement glass fitting (specialist anti reflective glass for clarity and protective UV filters) Tel: 07806 563322 email: b@berkshireframing.com w w w. b e r k s h i r e f r a m i n g . c o m

01635 869 689 or 07787 560276 =eYad mk2 sarah@buttercups-and-daisies.co.uk www.buttercups-and-daisies.co.uk Nakal mk Zq Yhhgafle]fl gfdq!2 . Jan]jka\] Klm\agk$ Dgo]j OYq >Yje$ Dgo]j OYq$ L`Yl[`Ye$ :]jck`aj] J?)1 +LD

Open: Tues- Fri 9am- 5pm & Saturday 9am-1pm Plenty of car parking available

Member of the Fine Art Trade Guild

Unit 12, Lower Way Farm, Lower Way, Thatcham, Berkshire RG19 3TL

NEWBURY RECLAIM licensed waste haulage Samuel D E Paul proprietor We clear houses, offices, garages, gardens, commercial and industrial units to vacant possession on a per load basis. We can collect single or multiple items at a call out charge by mileage from our yard. We can prepare or clean a property for renovation or re-use after clearing out at a POA basis. This extends to outside buildings, units, sites, gardens, garages etc. We have a policy of re-homing and re-using as much as is possible from each collection. All other materials are recycled, even down to clothing, bedding etc.

A place to find home interiors

You’ll love

For more information about our services or if you want to request for a quote please contact us at: 07799577456

paul339@btinternet.com www.newburyreclaim.com

pipachioathome.co.uk

7 St Mary’s Rd, Newbury Berks, RG14 1ES

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www.jewellerybyemmaroy.co.uk emma@jewellerybyemmaroy.co.uk Voucher code: Quote Out & About and get 10% discount

BOB’S COLLECTION Freshly woodturned pieces, handcrafted by Bob. Nothing pleases Bob more than being able to share his collection and welcoming them to a new home. All the wood is locally sourced or recycled. The creations come from the wood, and Bob follows the grain, colour and quirkiness of the wood to dictate the final outcomes.

NEW BOOK The full story behind the most spectacular roman mosaic ever found in Britain. OUT MID NOVEMBER Order your copy ready for Christmas

Please explore the bowls, chopping boards, waxes and oils, tree creations and other wood creations throughtout the website. www.waneyedgewoodcraft.co.uk

35 Kingfisher Court Hambridge Road Newbury Berkshire RG14 5SJ Tel: 01635 43816 info@countrysidebooks.co.uk www.countrysidebooks.co.uk

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Cheese is a staple of most Christmas festivities and in West Berkshire and the surrounding areas we are spoilt for choice when it comes to locally produced, award-winning cheeses. If you don’t know where to start then Cheese Etc, the award-winning cheese shop in Pangbourne is a great place to discover the extent of the variety of cheeses on offer, as CHARLOTTE BOOTH found out

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Out&About feature

C heese Etc., Pangbourne, has been run by Jen and Ali Grimstone-Jones since 2015. They started their cheese journey when they came into Cheese Etc. to commission a cheese wedding cake. On one of their return visits they were chatting to the owners, who wanted to sell the shop and Jen and Ali thought this could be just the challenge for them.

office space behind the shop. This local cheesemonger stocks 140 different types of cheese, two-thirds of which are British. “Christmas is our busiest time of year. Without Christmas we wouldn’t survive,” Ali explained. “People start putting their Christmas orders in, in September.” Cheese Etc. will be stocking a number of popular, specialist lines for the

Jen said: “We did it on a complete whim as we knew nothing about cheese. It was really exciting. “We had thought about opening a farm shop over Curridge way, but trying to find somewhere to do it and setting up from scratch was difficult. We had vaguely thought about it, but nothing as specialised as cheese.”

"We did it on a complete whim as we knew nothing about cheese. It was really exciting."

festive season, including Barkham Blue from Two Hoots, Reading, Vacherin Cheese, which is only produced between September and March, and truffle cheeses.

They also sell a variety of complementary items, such as Newbury gin, ciders, beer, crackers, cold meats and condiments. For that extra special gift for the festive season why not put together a personalised hamper, with favourite cheese, crackers and chutneys? Cheese Etc. also runs an occasional pop-up shop at Mrs B’s Café, Faraday Road, and provides a free delivery service in the Newbury and Pangbourne area. The earlier you order your cheese or your hampers the better, as last year, despite ordering 15 per cent more stock, they sold out. “We can never order enough of the local cheeses,” says Ali. “They are incredibly popular and once all the orders have come in, Jen and I are often up until three in the morning packing and checking all the cheese orders, ready for delivery, as well as dealing with the increased custom in the shop itself. Cheese Etc. will be shutting for Christmas at 2pm on Christmas Eve, up to then it will be all systems go.

Neither of them even worked in the retail or food industry. Jen worked as a sports therapist and Ali was a netball coach and still coaches part-time at St Gabriel’s’ School. When they took over Cheese Etc. there were two part-time staff and a full-time manager who went on holiday during their second week in the job, which really threw them in at the deep end. “I studied as much as I could – and still do. I read every cheese book I could find. I lived and breathed cheese and literally threw myself into it,” Jen said. Since then she has judged at the World Cheese Awards and the International Cheese Awards. But as well as judging, Cheese Etc. have also won the Cheese Counter of the Year award 2017/18 and this year they have won the Cheesemonger of the Year at the Farmshop Awards 2019. Jen is hoping to continue learning at the Cheese Academy in order to become a Master of Cheese, and will then give talks on cheese as well as host cheese and wine evenings in the

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