Out and About - Winter 2021

FREE

Winter 2021

West Berkshire, North Hampshire & East Wi ltshire

A Newbury News Ltd publication

Golden Years

Walters Turkeys is celebrating its 50th anniversary

Silverstone speed

A day out at the home of the British Grand Prix

Racing legend

Joe Mercer memorabilia to go under the hammer

Fashion Food Features Gardening Travel Competitions

The Parade | Marlborough | SN8 1NE Open Mon-Fri. 8.15am-5.00pm. 01672 513491 www.dandrfurnishers.co.uk Curtains | Carpets | Gifts | etc

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GERALDINE GARDNER

Editor

T his season seems to be all about getting the Covid booster vaccine and /or the flu jab to stave off more winter misery. Hopefully this edition of Out & About will give you another kind of boost. After almost a two-year hiatus things are gradually returning to normal and we can look forward to enjoying the festive season with family and loved ones. To get you in the mood, if you’re struggling for gift ideas, we’ve got a few suggestions as well as a selection of winter fashion and some tips on looking after your skin and maintaining a fitness regime. If you’re looking for a celebratory tipple, UK sparkling wines are holding their own on the world stage says The Vineyard sommelier Romain Bourger. He has also selected some world wines he thinks you will enjoy. I paid a visit to a new independent café in Newbury and got ot sample their delicious homemade cakes, and Angela Knight gives us a review of chef Dom Robinson’s latest venture, Renaissant in Bagnor. The food and drink section is packed full of tasty recipes and party food ideas, as well as a feature on Walters Turkeys, a local family supplier of free-range birds, which this year celebrates its 50th anniversary. 2021 is also the centenary of Newbury department store Camp Hopson. Digging into the Newbury Weekly News archives, I found a selection of pictures of people camping outside the store waiting for the January sales to begin – something you don’t see any more, with sales seemingly on all the year around.

Lovers of cars will enjoy reading Hinna Aamani’s acount of her visit to the annual Ferrari Day at Silverstone. She describes the thrills and spills of the perfect day out – and it’s not just for petrolheads. Continuing the sporting vibe, SAS Auctions in Newbury will be selling some memorabilia from the estate of the champion jockey Joe Mercer, who died earlier this year. The collection includes paintings and trophies accumulated by him over the years and which adorned the walls of his farm at Cold Ash. Rookery Farm, Newbury, is the home of Eleanor Gilbert, aka Berkshire Farm Girl, and we are fortunate that Eleanor continues to bring us informative seasonal accounts of life on a working farm. Barton Court river keeper Nick Richards also keeps a seasonal diary about how he maintains his particular stretch of the River Kennet. With the plight of rivers very much in the news his work is more vital than ever. We also have some gardening tips from allotmenteer David Coles, a motor report from Maurice Hardy, what to look out for in the night sky, as well as some book recommendations for Christmas and a look at the latest trends in interiors. Last, but by no means least, it’s great to see so many events taking place in villages and towns across the district. After last year it will be lovely to stroll among the Christmas markets and enjoy the annual lights switch ons. You’ll find a four-page round-up of things to see and do. Wherever you are over the festive period, I hope it is happy and peaceful and that 2022 is the start of a brighter and hopeful future for us all.

Editor’s picks

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

Cover picture

Need for speed

Stress less in the kitchen

32 SILVERSTONE

38 TURKEY TIME

46 FESTIVE FOOD

The Walters family have been supplying turkeys to family across the UK for 50 years

Find out what happens on a day out at the home of the British Grand Prix

Be party-ready with these quick and easy ideas to impress your friends and family

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CONTENTS

Winter 2021

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Local view: Jonathan Hopson goes cycling in France Fashion: winter fashion from the high street and local boutiques 13 Health & Beauty: maintaining a winter glow 26 Gift ideas: a selection of ideas to go under the tree FEATURES 32 Need for speed: Silverstone is a great day out 38 Talk turkey: The Walters family celebrate 50 years supplying turkeys during the festive season 56 Camps at Christmas: Memories of Father Christmas and queueing for the sales WELLBEING 17 Fitness: don’t give up over Christmas 21 Mental health: Eight Bells for Mental Health is a vital local charity 23 Education: preparing for the new school year FOOD & DRINK 37 Caf é review: The Tiny Café, Newbury 42 Restaurant review: Renaissant, Bagnor 44 Mrs B: Warming mushroom strudel recipe 46 Party food: stress-free festive fare 50 Honesty: delicious Plum Whip 52 Top Tipples: Emergence of English sparkling wine

A Newbury News Ltd publication

LIFESTYLE 61 Antiques: Joe Mercer memorabilia 66 Interiors: improve the value of your home 70 Gardening: David Cole’s hints and tips from the allotment 73 Pet talk: look out for toxic plants; understand your cat; dementia in pets ENVIRONMENT 74 Berkshire Farm Girl: Eleanor Gilbert’s winter diary 78 Tales from a river keeper: Nick Richards keeps the river clean and clear LEISURE 82 Travel: luxury breaks 85 Motors: Kia Stinger is a zinger 87 Book review: gift ideas for book lovers 91 What’s on: things to see and do 97 Astronomy: winter night sky highlights COMPETITION 27, 29 & 35 Win: Ride on Sven reindeer from Frozen; Andresa treatment; Ticket to Lap of Lights at Silverstone

Cover Photograph: Walters Turkeys: 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 ILIFFE DESIGN HUB PHOTOGRAPHY PHIL CANNINGS PUBLISHED ON THURSDAY 18TH 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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TAKING A VIEW

JONATHAN HOPSON’s cycling adventures take him to the south of France where the ‘cyclist-friendly roads’ make for an all-round pleasant experience

D uring early few friends for a few days cycling in southern France. Our cycling host, Angus and his wife Darian, have a beautiful house half an hour north of Nimes in the former Languedoc- Roussillon area, (since 2006 this area is now known as Occitania). Two of our group travelled out via a late-night flight from Stansted to Marseille. The journey was disrupted somewhat due to the late arrival of the flight at Marseille and the car hire company’s slightly strange decision, (despite an email confirming our reservation) to close their office less than 15 minutes after our flight landed and before we could collect our hire car. Undaunted, we managed to track down a taxi prepared to make the 90-minute trip northwards. The next morning a brief visit to the excellent Location Vélos in Uzes to hire a road bike and we were underway. Although we cycled more than 200 kilometres and climbed over 2,500 metres, September, I was fortunate to be invited to join a

Vesenobres

hour drinking coffee and eating pastries in the sunshine outside the delightful La Floriane restaurant and doing what the French seem to do very well – watching the world go by. Between Uzes and Barjac, the mediaeval town of Lussan is perched on a hilltop and is one of the prettiest villages in Languedoc. The town is completely car- free and it’s well worth the effort ascending to the top for the striking beauty of the panoramic views. From Lussan it was about

we took a generous three days to do so. This was always going to be much more of a social get- together with opportunities for a long leisurely lunch, rather than thrashing as fast as possible across the French countryside. One of the advantages about cycling in France is the huge choice of cyclist- friendly roads, largely devoid of traffic, and the opportunity to make frequent pit-stops. Irrespective of how small the town was, there was always at least one good restaurant – our host’s research was impeccable. One such stop-off point was the picturesque town of Sauve. We spent a very amiable

Grenier d’Aladin. A word of warning, you may prefer to assuage your thirst from the selection of drinks available other than beer – there was only a choice of one beer when we visited, a blond variety, with a somewhat dubious taste. Our all-too-brief trip ended with a delicious evening meal at the aptly-named Ten restaurant in the centre of Uzes. The food, wine and service were all outstanding and a most convivial atmosphere too. A written description cannot really do it justice – it should be sampled direct!

an hour and a half to another hilltop village,

Vezenobres, and the chance to sample the gastronomic delights available at Au

Near Uzes looking north towards the Cevennes

Angus, David and Anton

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O&A WINTER 2021

FASHION

Looking hot...

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River Island gold dress £90

F&F Silver Tux Dress £30

TK Maxx metallic one shoulder £169

M&S Collection trousers £45

M&S suede court shoes £45

River Island pink ankle boots £48

M&S sequin dress

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O&A WINTER 2021

Out & About fashion

Barbour Killin tartan

MandCo teal wrap coat £69.99

wool £349

TK Maxx fauxfurcoat £79.99

F&F Leopard star tunic £14

M&S Autograph leather

gloves £39.50

Tu stone longline puffer coat £48

...while keeping out the cold

Matalan black glitter block heel ankle boots £20

Tu taupe Chelsea boot £28

Joe Brown’s Forever Victoria leather long boot £99

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O&A WINTER 2021

Part Two Coat Katrin - £169.95

Storiatipic Scarf Clara - £98

Local style

Loxwood Cross body Bag in Pumpkin £137.95

Nail your winter wardrobe with a long warm coat,a sturdy yet edgy pair of boots – pair with trousers and skirts – add a striking scarf and complete the look with

a statement handbag. Roxtons, Hungerford www.roxtons.co.uk Other gift ideas also available from Roxtons

Penelope Chilvers Oiled Suede Boot – Amelia £269

Klimchi Crystal Hobnail Jug £95

Goat Yoga Party Game - £27.95

Emma J Shipley Placemat - £18

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O&A WINTER 2021

Out & About fashion & gifts

Roxtons Guatemalan Belt £49

Roxtons Alaskan Makers Juneau Rucksack - £94

Roxtons Bolin Webb Razor £65

Stuck for what to get the men in your life? Here are a few suggestions For him

Matalan men’s Slogan wash bag £10

National Trust shop waxed adventurer hat, dark brown £35

TK Maxx wood covered photo album £39.99

Dobbies Gentlemen’s survival kit £17.99

M&S Collection Fair Isle Crew Neck jumper £29.50

Barbour Tartan Washbag £32.95

M&S Collection Textured weekend bag £79

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O&A WINTER 2021

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Out & About health and beauty

You shall glow to the ball

These luxurious skin products will keep you glowing from top to bottom – oh yes they will!

You shall go to the ‘Masked’ ball Organic Pharmacy Corrective Masks target lacklustre, dehydrated, rough, and pigmented skin to deliver the results you dream of. The Four Acid Peel Corrective Mask is ideal for textured or uneven skin: Gently exfoliates to reveal skin that is brighter, more youthful, radiant and smooth. For dehydrated skin try the Hyaluronic Acid Corrective Mask. It gives a maximum and intense hydrating action that will instantly leave your skin feeling plump and work below the surface for a long-lasting rehydration and firming result. The Retinol Night Corrective Mask is ideal for ageing skin. The overnight mask slowly releases actives deep into the skin to penetrate, target and reduce sun pigmentation and sunspots. Dull or sun damaged can benefit from the Stabilised Vitamin C Corrective Mask. The powerful gel mask will completely transform your complexion by boosting collagen levels deep in the skin thanks to the stabilised Vitamin C.

Sleeping beauty Naturopathica skin care collection uses proven botanicals like oats, aloe, and seed oils to nourish the skin, cosmeceuticals and proven dermatological actives like plant stem cells, retinol and glycolic acid to deliver visible results. Calendula Essential Hydrating Cream deeply moisturises, helps improve the skin barrier, and soothes sensitivity. Manuka Honey Cleansing Balm instantly melts away dirt, makeup and impurities to reveal a nourished, dewy glow. Deeply cleanses, conditions dry and sensitive skin and helps to reinforce the skin’s barrier.

Carrot Seed Soothing Facial Oil defends and nourishes for healthy- looking, replenished skin. Soothes dry and sensitive skin, softens and nourishes and prevents dehydration.

Sweet Cherry Enzyme Brightening Peel is a mask which features antioxidant-rich sweet cherry puree and brightening lactic acid. It gently exfoliates to help reveal a healthy glow. Aloe Cleansing Gel soothes and hydrates, removing impurities with a lightweight foaming gel texture. uk.naturopathica.com

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O&A WINTER 2021

Offering daytime, adult Art Courses in Newbury in a warm, friendly and nurturing environment. Many students come to learn but also to meet new people and have a bit of 'me' time. We cater for total beginners, as well as improvers looking to take their art to the next level. Mediums taught include pencil, charcoal, acrylics, watercolours, ink and wash and many more. Held at the tranquil St Marys Church Hall, Shaw, Newbury Get in touch for more details or to book your space. Visit our website www.creativeartclasses.co.uk or email studio@creativeartclasses.co.uk or call Carrie 07780 714656 Learn to Draw & Paint Pearl House Newbury, our exciting new retirement development in Newbury, has opened its doors for you to view Join us for coffee and cake in our beautiful facilities and learn what Luxury retirement living is about. 25th November - Money Matters FREE event with talks from local experts. At 11.00am 2nd December - Our Charity Christmas Fair - we welcome enquiries from potential stall holders. Sign up now for over 65’s wreath making (Date TBC)

Feel safe and secure, with 24-hour concierge. Communal spaces include a library, club lounge, restaurant and landscaped gardens. Come and take a look at the spacious one and two bed apartments and penthouses. Apartment prices start at £275,000 PLEASE NOTE other charges apply. (No ground rent is payable). To book a viewing or to take your place for our Open Thursday event on 25th November Telephone 01635 551 229 or contact us at sales@edenrl.com For further information please visit our website. www.pearlhousenewbury.co.uk

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Out & About health and beauty

Hello – what white teeth you have! Naturally whitening fluoride toothpaste, prevents cavities and remineralises enamel. Hello is a whitening paste that tastes awesome and works brilliantly. Formulated with acalciummineral blend that naturally whitens teeth and farmgrown super-peppy peppermint, tea tree oil to help tame bad breath. Alternatively try the Hello charcoal fluoride toothpaste made from sustainable bamboo. The charcoal paste contains fluoride which helps to prevent cavities and remineralise enamel. Specifically formulated to be gentle enough for daily use. Hello is available from Superdrug RRP £6.99

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Available from department stores or online at www.legology.co.uk

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O&A WINTER 2021

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Testimonials 1) I suffer from varicose veins,which causes severe discoloration of my leg. Since my treatment with keith the appearance of my leg has greatly improved. I am thrilled by Keith’s treatment and advice on exercises and nutrition and healthy diet. I can recommend him highly. Joe 2) For as long as I can remember I suffered from fluid retention and uncom- fortable ankles. I was treated by keith with remarkable results. I would highly recommend keith for treatments 5 out of 5. Breda 3) Keith was brilliant he has a lovely down to earth and approachable manner and takes a genuine interest in your full health,I had old injuries neck/back,tried physio etc but only got slight improve- ment that didnt last but keith got to the root of my problems and i have never felt better also keith gave me nutritional ad- vice,daily stretches which are amazing. I would give Keith’s clinic 5 stars. Siobhan 4) I would 100%recommend Keith’s clinic. Very friendly atmosphere with great results. After suffering for years from neck and back pain and also from acute sinus keith worked on me with acupunc- ture and massaging and the results are amazing. A big thank you to Keith! Catherine Start your journey of pain relief by contacting us today – HERE TO HELP YOU

Japanese integrated medicine is the study of human physiology and pathology. It is a natural way of theory and practice of diagnosis, prevention and treatment of diseases. It not only views the human body as a whole but inseparable from nature. Japanese integrated medicine has many guidance and philosophical principles for health,mobility and life. The Ailm Clinic specializes in: • Sekkotsu ( spine and joint correction) • Shindenjutsu (ligament/fluid driving) • Ampuka (visceral correction) • Kenkujutsu (cranial balancing) and offers treatments for various different health issues and injuries including: • Back pain • Injury • Digestion • Fertility • Sciatica • Hormonal imbalance • Headache/migraine etc. The Ailm Clinic integrates all of these therapies in every treatment • Acupuncture/acupressure • Japanese Anma massage

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Out & About wellbeing

FITNESS

Winter can be one of the most challenging times of year to prioritise our health and fitness. Often routine is thrown out of the window with more events and possibly less energy and motivation to exercise. VICKI BROWN says trying some new routines and habits and ensuring to keep the important habits in place may see you heading in to 2022 feeling good and in control of your routine.

Winter workout ideas n Run a mile a day for a month (or you could walk it) n Follow a five-minute stretch routine at your desk n 50 squats a day for a month n Sign up to a challenge or challenge a friend to join you in doing something fun n Choose a time of day to workout, morning, lunchtime or evening, and carve it into your diary. It could be just five minutes a day n Join a class or get a personal trainer. Having a set time to workout increases adherence for most people, plus you get to workout with others n Dance around your kitchen every time you cook

Try this workout! AMRAP Workout As many rounds as possible in 10 minutes 20 High Knees 10 Squats 10 Press Ups 20 Jumping Jacks 20 Mountain Climbers These simple steps may help improve your energy levels n Supplement vitamin D (the lack of daylight at this time of year means it is worth doing so until at least March). n Still prioritise water consumption, even though desire often drops off in the colder months. n Prioritise sleep – target an average of 7-9 hours. n Try and get outside first circadian rhythm on track. n Move daily, this may look different than when the sun is shining and the days feel longer. n If you want to workout but often lack the motivation at this time of year, remember to make it easy, schedule it into your diary, plan to workout with a partner or friend. Make a rigid commitment to help you follow through with something you want to do. n Eat nutritionally dense thing in the morning, a great way to keep your

A little motivation Our goal leaving 2021 behind and heading into 2022 should be feeling good. The small habits that you can fit into each day can make you feel better and ready for other challenges. You don’t need to be perfect – try and be consistent. Have a wonderful end of 2021 and beginning of 2022 and remember you have the power to make changes that can make you feel even better – start today, with one small thing.

food so you feel satiated while keeping your immune system boosted n Take the opportunity to rest if you have been full on all year – our body and mind sometimes need a little extra time to recover and it may just be the perfect time to do this. Switch your intense workout for yoga or meditation if you still want to prioritise movement n Enjoy the season by underpinning the habits that make you feel good

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

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O&A WINTER 2021

Abstract® Bodyworks Personal Training Life without Weakness

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Whats the point of excer cise?

Why does anyone exercise? There are many reasons why people take up an exercise routine, from health related to social pressures to specific targets to general desire to “feel better”, and all of them are good reasons. Many people don’t do enough on a day-to- day basis to keep their bodies in the best condition that they can have, and if we add to that a less than perfect diet that so many of us find ourselves eating it is no surprise that the general level of health is declining, even though the life expectancy has been increasing (at least until the pandemic). But taking up exercise is not an easy thing to do; many people find it an unattractive activity, and even more don’t know how to do it without injury, so people shy away from even starting, which adds to the general downward spiral of “ageing gracefully”, which is rarely graceful. In this article we describe three motivations for exercise, and how the people who have taken it up have achieved what they set out to. Marathon Man If you ever think about people who run marathons seriously you probably have the idea of a lean, long person who carries no excess weight so as to maximise their speed over the ground. What probably does not come to mind is weight training, but Mike knew better. Although he was already an accomplished, and fast, marathon runner he recognized that if he wanted to improve he needed to gain some strength without gaining weight, which would require a disciplined and targeted approach. Luckily for Mike his wife had recently started working out at Abstract Bodyworks Newbury, a personal training gym which is entirely focussed on providing exactly the correct kind of exercise to build strength and to allow the client to achieve their particular goal, if they have one. Mike had a goal - to run faster and recover faster - and he thought that this kind of training could help. After an initial consultation about exactly what Mike’s objectives were, he added our workouts into his running training. Mike commenced on a training program that helped him, in 2017, to become the fastest UK runner in his age group at the London Marathon. At that point he’d achieved one goal so took a break from strength training, but when a new goal presented itself, running the first London Marathon after Lockdown, Mike recognized his same strength needs and came back to us. When he returned he was still in great condition even though he had “declined”

back to his 2015 state. But this time he and we both knew what we had to do, so we set about helping him regain the strength he’d lost, while also losing the weight he’d gained, and the results speak for themselves, but we’d rather let Mike I restarted in April 2021 with the weights. It would give me a great chance of getting back to where I was strength-wise for the Virgin Money London Marathon race day - 3rd October 2021. My hunch was correct, and with one session a week I again reduced my body weight overall by about 3kg. This was achieved by a combination of increased muscle mass to 42% from 39.8%, and reduced body fat to 11% from 13.5%. To put this into context, average muscle mass for a man like me is 31.4% and fat 17.9%. So what happened in the race? For any endurance athlete, a combination of reduced weight and increased strength is bound to result in faster times, all other things being equal, and so it proved. Despite the stiff head wind during the second half of the race, I was able to run it faster than the first half and finished in 2H 59M 37S. As a result, I am the first British runner (aged over 70), to break three hours for this distance and only the 4th in the world. To sum up: the training regime at Abstract Bodyworks improved my strength, enhanced my resilience to injury, improved my body condition and importantly, gave me the mental strength to finish strongly at the end of the race. Looking After Others Not all the heros of the SARS-CoV-2 Lockdown work for the NHS - there are countless others who carried on with their essential activities throughout; one of those was Julia. Although she was in great condition for her age she felt things beginning to slide and realized she needed help - but like many people she HATED the idea of going to the gym. Luckily, Julia found Abstract Bodyworks and immediately took to the personal training that we provide. Her goal was continue to be fit enough to continue providing support to her clients, and over the past three years she has done just. Over three years she’s increased her strength by between 130%-157% across her body, and kept her physiological See advertisement opposite for details of how to book two free personal training sessions. Quote O&APX2021 do the talking: Mike’s words:

age flat - so she’s physiologically three years YOUNGER than when she started! And she’s even managed to convince her partner to begin exercising with us too, with similar results. Once again her words say it better than we can: Julia’s words For quite a while I had been thinking of different ways to improve my fitness as I really needed to tone up to continue providing the service I do for my elderly and challenged clients. I began doing home exercises but I never got into the habit of doing them regularly, and I wasn’t really sure if I was doing them correctly anyway! When I saw the advert for Abstract Bodyworks I was interested; private, personal training by professionals who do know what they are talking about, and on a schedule that I can fit into my working life. Add to that I can do the work outs in my everyday clothes and it sounded even more ideal! Since I started this training I know I am much stronger, much healthier, and more toned - and my clients are seeing the benefits too. What’s OUR Point? Pat & I took up this form of exercise in 2000 when we realized that age was catching up with us and we wanted to do something to increase our chances for a long and healthy life. After living in the USA for 20 years we returned to find we couldn’t do this kind of exercise anywhere, so we set up our own gym! Over the nine years we’ve been in business we’ve trained hundreds of people, each with their own reason for wanting to get fitter, and because we tailor the work outs to the individual, and we document everything we do so completely, we know exactly how we help. So our point is simple - fitness and health isn’t really optional but essential. If you have a goal - being able to play with the grandchildren or that extra round of golf, getting into that party dress or up the stairs, whatever it is you should use that objective to help you drive your exercise activities - if we can help we’d love to do that.

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Out & About wellbeing

Mental health support

Paddleboarders on the Kennet & Avon canal took part in a fundraiser for Eight Bells recently

E ight Bells for improve their lives, wellbeing, confidence and self-esteem through volunteering and training activities and peer support from a dedicated team of volunteers. We help service users overcome stigma, prejudice, discrimination and isolation so they can enjoy a quality of life others take for granted. We offer advice on a range of issues such as finance, Mental Health works tirelessly to help members opportunities, access to projects, a range of housing, benefits and employment and are able to refer members for specialist counselling and support if their mental members-led organisation where service users have a hand and say in the way our charity runs and elect their own management committee at an annual AGM. health deteriorates. We are a uniquely

Eight Bells for Mental Health is a charity that offers a welcoming and supportive environment to anyone aged 18-plus, who is experiencing mental health issues in Newbury, Thatcham and surrounding areas

There are laptops and high-speed broadband for members’ use and a catering team which offers a freshly cooked lunch at every session. The centre creates a great atmosphere where people feel part of a community. It is a safe, welcoming space where people can make their own decisions and choices and participate in deciding how things are done. They can get involved in running things, take part in activities or just drop in to enjoy a cup of coffee, among friendly faces. We are an inclusive and diverse organisation with members from the ethinic minority and LGBTQ+ communities. Eight Bells receives a number of referrals from

GPs, the Community Mental Health Team, West Berkshire Social Services, and other health professionals and organisations, as well as private families and individuals. A referral is not required, though members who would like to join are asked to fill in a confidential out more contact the coordinator Kathryn Dundas on 07387 962220 or email coordinator@ eightbellsnewbury.co.uk Eight Bells for Mental Health, The Friends Meeting House in Highfield Avenue, Newbury is open Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays, 9am-5pm. www.eightbellsnewbury. co.uk membership form. It you want to find

Our longest-serving members offer basic

mentoring and a one-to- one friendship scheme to new and more vulnerable service users which has been hugely successful. Our award-winning art group meets every Monday afternoon for members of all abilities, other activities include Nature Therapy at Thatcham Discovery Centre, meditation and Yoga sessions, gardening, day trips and access to courses such as Food Health and Hygiene, First Aid, Mental Health lite courses, Peer Support and Advocacy.

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UNLEASH YOUR POT ENT IAL Kennet Sixth Form Open Evening Thursday, 25 November Visit our school website for up-to-date information about the event and any restrictions that may apply on the day.

Kennet School, Stoney Lane, Thatcham, Berkshire RG19 4LL office@kennetschool.co.uk 01635 862121 www.kennetschool.co.uk/sixthformcourses kennetschool

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Out & About wellbeing

EDUCATION The festive season is a time of celebration, but can also bring extra stresses. AMANDA BAILEY says acknowledge these emotions and learn how to let them go and respond positively

P eople often ask me what qualifications I have as creator of Be. My background is in education, specifically more than 25 years working as a SENCo working

space to enable us to be our authentic selves. Use the breath – relax the face, particularly the jaw by moving the bottom teeth away from the top teeth and softening the tongue, take a moment to settle, feeling the body relax, letting the breath come and go. Accept your emotion: Use this helpful mantra, be kind to yourself, ‘Notice, Don’t Judge’. When calm and reconnected to your true self, consider your next steps. When things don’t go as planned or expected, the most common response is reactive. Accept that everything won’t go according to plan, breathe, pause and acknowledge your emotions. For your own emotional well-being, it is essential to recognise that we cannot control other people, we can only control ourselves. Sometimes we can forgive, letting go of negative emotions, at other times this is not so easy. Visualisation is a useful tool in releasing our self from the grip of emotions. Imagine attaching the thought to a balloon, which you are holding with a piece of string and cutting it with a pair of scissors so the balloon/thought drifts away. During the festive season and at any stressful time, remember you can choose how to respond.

with pupils with social, emotional and mental health difficulties. A SENCo is there to

actively engage and listen to everyone, break down barriers and help devise plans to support a pupil’s needs as fully as possible. I have formal qualifications, but of equal importance are the lessons I have learned from the ‘university of life’. I have experienced the good and the bad and, yes, at times, the downright ugly, but have used the new knowledge gained to help understand and manage the next step of the journey. In his autobiography One , goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel shares the highs and lows of his 10- year professional career, including the ‘hairdryer treatment’ – Sir Alex Ferguson’s close-range barrages towards players at half-time. Schmeichel said: ‘I don’t think there’s ever been a better manager...It’s the communication, the clarity you’re never in doubt about anything, you’re never threatened.....working for him in that environment, the messages were clear, your job was clear and nothing was held against you.”

While a professional football team’s changing roommotivational tactics may not be for everyone – and it is essential to protect your emotional well-being and speak out if someone’s behaviour is not OK – the benefits of clear communication between people is something that everyone could aspire to. Increasingly, professional sporting stars are talking openly about struggles with depression and other mental health issues as they strive to stay at the top, the positive (probably unintended) consequence is that it is helping to tackle the stigma associated with mental health struggles and encourages others to have a proactive approach to improving their mental health every day. Most people aspire to be courteous, polite and respectful. We make judgements in the moment

within a social situation, sometimes authentically saying what we think, but often not saying how we feel; many find sharing their true feelings incredibly discomforting. Sometimes we try to block something from our mind – resist and it persists. Suppressing a thought takes lots of energy and as many will have discovered we are especially at risk of blurting that thought out when stressed or anxious. The festive season is often represented as a time for togetherness, but many experience mixed emotions and some find it a source of stress and anxiety. Meeting everyone’s expectations, disagreements and personality clashes are all stressful. Anxiety or heightened feelings mean we will not be thinking clearly. The key goal is to create a quieter, calmer mental

O&A WINTER 2021 Amanda Bailey offers a number of bespoke and group courses to help children, young adults and families reduce anxiety and increase calmness. Visit www.beberkshire.co.uk or email amanda@beberkshire.co.uk or call 07909502667 23

Self-Build success doesn’t need to be difficult Currently just 7% of the homes in the UK are self-built, but with the prospect of the number of new builds increasing across the UK, many are starting to look to this option of homeownership. Most self-builders are tempted by the opportunity to build a home to their own design and personalise it to suits their own tastes. Starting a self-build project can be daunting as there are numerous ways in which it can be achieved. There are many factors to consider and when it comes to arranging a self-build mortgage the task is simple in theory, but most people are uncertain of where to start. The good news is that the process doesn’t need to be difficult. Where to build? This can either mean finding a plot of land with planning permission, finding innovative ways of separating land with an existing home on it, a renovation, or a conversion project. The land You may be lucky enough to already own the plot of land if it forms part of your current property. You will need to appoint a solicitor to separate the title from the existing property. If you intend to do this, and you have a mortgage on your current home, you will need to gain the agreement from your current lender to release the land from their security. If you are purchasing a plot of land to build on, you will need to consider its location and whether it has planning permission. If there is no existing planning permission, your choice of lender will be limited, as generally you will need this to purchase land with a mortgage. Planning permission If you are building on a plot you own or wish to make any changes to pre-existing permissions, you will need to apply to your local authority for planning permission. It is important at this point to ensure you have appointed a qualified architect to ensure the design of the property will satisfy planning requirements. Cost research It is important that before embarking on a self-build project you understand the costs involved. A lender will need to know how much the project is going to cost and you will also need to understand if you can afford the build. Once you have highlighted a plot and at the time of designing your home it is a good idea to engage with builders and tradespeople to get an outline indication of how much the build will cost. There are other costs to also consider, solicitor fees, planning fees and the cost of a new homes warranty (which a lender will insist on). It is always important to build a healthy contingency in as well, usually 10% of the build cost is advisable. The lender Securing finance for a self-build home may not be as daunting as it sounds. Self-build mortgages are not so different from ‘regular’ mortgages. The amount you can borrow is determined by assessing your income and commitments.

The mortgage amount will also depend on the costs of the project and the value of the completed home. Funding can be made in set stages throughout the project as you build your home. What helps is that self-build mortgages are offered on an interest-only basis which will help keep initial costs down during the build. The beauty of self-building is that, if managed correctly, it offers a cost-effective way of owning your dream home based on your personal choice. Self-build doesn’t always mean excessive expense and can often include ‘eco’ elements in the build which result in a home which is more energy efficient and has less environmental impact compared to older housing stock. Exceeding a build budget is not the norm if the build is managed correctly, and the reward? A home which is perfectly suited to you and your lifestyle. If you’re looking to build your own home and would like to talk to us about a self-build mortgage, please contact us and arrange an appointment by video, in a branch local to you or by telephone. Hungerford branch: 127 High Street, Hungerford, RG17 0DL Call: 01488 684705 Email: hungerford@newbury.co.uk Newbury branch: 105b Northbrook Street, Newbury, RG14 1AA Call: 01635 522588 Email: newbury@newbury.co.uk Thatcham branch: 4 High Street, Thatcham, RG19 3JD Call: 01635 864996 Email: thatcham@newbury.co.uk

Jane Bosher, Senior Branch Manager of Newbury Building Society’s Hungerford, Newbury and Tahtcham branch.

YOUR MORTGAGE IS SECURED ON YOUR HOME. THINK CAREFULLY BEFORE SECURING OTHER DEBTS AGAINST YOUR HOME. YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE.

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 will communicate 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. 8530

Building Society Newbury

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Out & About gift ideas

UNELM CRANES FRAMED PRINT £16 D

M&S SAUSAGE DOG CUSHION COVER £6

NAITONAL TRUST ROBIN BISCUIT TIN £10

NIMAL INSTINCTS A

M&S PERCY PIG TEATOWELS £9.50

It is often difficult choosing gifts for loved ones and friends or if you have to pick something for a colleague in the office secret Santa, but most people – ok not all – are animal lovers, so we’ve found a few cheap and cheerful suggestions as an extra gift under the Christmas tree

WILKO SANTAMUG £4

DOBBIES EMERALD BEE CUSHION £19.99

WILKO HEDGEHOG PHOTO HOLDER £3

MATALAN POLAR BEAR DOORSTOP £10

MATALAN ROBIN HOTTIE £8.50

NATIONAL TRUSTMUSICAL MICE ORNAMENT SET OF THREE £12

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B as Books & Home in the Kennet Centre opened its doors on September 28th 2020 as part of a fundraising initiative by Sebastian’s Action Trust to further expand the charity’s activities in supporting the families of seriously-ill children. The trust was founded from the last wish of one very special nine-year- old boy just 12 days before he died of cancer in 2003 and now provides emotional, social and practical care for more than 600 life-limited and life-threatened children and their families across the region. This support includes planned and crisis breaks at their flagship holiday home, The Bluebells in North Waltham near Basingstoke, together with outreach and specialist support at their second centre, The Woodlands in Crowthorne. A comprehensive outreach service aims to reduce isolation, provide meaningful support and build resilience to help their beneficiaries face the uncertainties of the future. The trust receives no statutory funding so is totally reliant on their own fundraising and the generosity of supporters. At Sebastian’s Action Trust, the team passionately believe seriously- ill children should be able to have quality time together with their families, never having to face life alone. Their vision is to ensure lives, however short, are lived to the full. Bas Books & Home offers a continually changing range of pre loved bric-a-brac, books, furniture and children’s toys, all donated by supporters from Newbury and the surrounding area and anybody wishing to show their support either with donations of stock or volunteering their time and expertise in the shop should contact the store manager Ashley Pearce on 07436 408059. WIN

Out & About competition

a ride-on Sven, the Reindeer from Frozen Bas Books & Home wants to say thank you for your support of the Sebastian’s Action Trust

Store manager of Bas Books & Home Ashley Pearce is looking after Sven for the lucky winner

The shop also works with other local charity organisations such as Beyond A.S.C to provide work- based opportunities and learning experiences, and is also a committed supporter of the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme through local schools. Berkshire, RG14 2AD. The closing date for entries is Monday, December 6. For O&A terms and conditions please see page 5. HOW TO ENTER… To be in with a chance of winning please answer the following question: Q: Where will you find the Bas Books and Home shop in Newbury? Send your answer on the form to Out & About Sven competition, Newspaper House, Faraday Road, Newbury,

Sven Competition Answer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Name . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Address . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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As a ‘thank you’ in recognition of the continued support Bas Books & Home enjoys from both their loyal customers and supporters they are pleased to offer Out & About readers the opportunity to win a brand new ride-on Sven, from the movie Frozen .

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Home Landing The home of fine tea towels Browse through our collections of printed and woven tea towels ranging from fun loving and classic cotton prints, fine printed Italian linens, rustic woven French linens, design led coloured French jacquard tea towels and classic Irish linen glass cloths. There is something for everyone.

Suppliers include: Coucke, Charvet Éditions, Emma Ball, Ulster Weavers, Emma Ball, Jaçquard Français, Tessitura Toscana Telerie, Thomas Ferguson, Thornback & Peel, and Ulster Weavers. Christmas Tea Towels Lovely Festive designs from £7 to £13.60. Featured, ‘Christmas Trees’ on 100% Linen – designed and printed in Italy

by Tessitura Toscana Telerie retail £13.60 www.home-landing.co.uk Email: info@home-landing.co.uk Tel: 01635 48522

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Out & About competition

Win a BABOR Pro bespoke Anti-Ageing Facial worth £150 and £100 worth of luxury BABOR skincare products

Founder of Andresa Skin Health and Laser Clinic Theresa Fleetwood offers these tips for winter skin rescue Cleanse and cleanse again: To keep your skin glowing and congestion free always cleanse twice morning and evening and remove your cleanser thoroughly using a moist hot towel – absolute luxury! For sensitive skin types try using a water-soluble milk cleanser like Dr BABOR Neuro- sensitive calming cleanser, great for calming redness, sensitive and reactive skin. Hydrate, Hydrate: Skin cells need support and hydration as they can quickly become damaged in turn compromising the skin, breaking down its protective barrier (pH) which can lead to sensitivity. Before applying your daily moisturiser apply a few drops of intensive hydration to your skin. I recommend one of the new anti-oxidant rich Dr BABOR Pro concentrates; Ceramide concentrate strengthens the skin’s natural barrier and protects against moisture loss and external skin aggressors like the cold weather. Keep moisturising: This winter I have opted for Dr BABOR Pro EGF Collagen Cream. It is lightweight and easy to wear day and night, it strengthens skin tissue, improves elasticity and delivers a smoother, firmer skin. This new moisturiser is fast becoming a firm favourite with our clients. To protect or not to protect? Using a sunscreen all year round should be an integral part of your anti-ageing

Out & About has teamed up with Andresa to offer you the chance to win a a BABOR Pro bespoke Anti-Ageing Facial worth £150 and £100 worth of luxury BABOR skincare products. To be in with a chance of winning please answer the following question: Q: What is the name of the founder of Andresa Skin Health & Laser Clinic? Send your answer on the form to Out & About Andresa competition, Newspaper House, Faraday Road, Newbury, Berkshire, RG14 2AD. The closing date for entries is Monday, December 6. For O&A terms and conditions see p5.

routine. Good quality products like Heliocare provides high-level broad- spectrum UVA and UVB protection, as well as super anti-oxidant known as Fernblock. Don’t want to apply two products? Drop your moisturiser and just opt for one of the Heliocare broad spectrum formulas over the top of your anti-oxidant serum – simple! Get your skin Christmas party ready: Winter is the best time of year to have corrective anti-ageing treatments. Did you know you can get amazing results without the need for surgery or injectables? I recommend the Andresa Clear Lift 4D laser Facelift or our New Exilis Ultra 360 skin treatment to stimulate new collagen, improve skin laxity and define facial contouring – great for the eye area, neck and jawline. Our clients love these advanced medical grade treatments with no downtime. For more advice on skin products and treatments go to www.andresa.co.uk or call 01635 800183.

ANDRESA COMPETITION

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