Winter 2020

GERALDINE GARDNER

Editor

A s I write this we face an uncertain winter – how long will ‘lockdown2’ go on for? What sort of Christmas will we be having? I do know that for the first time in 30 years the chances of our family being together on Christmas Day – four children, their four partners and two grandchildren – are extremely slim, never mind all the wider family get-togethers we have got used to over the years. It is going to be different for us all, but there are some families who are in need of extra support and care, especially at a time when we all want our children to enjoy themselves as best they can. A year ago, Kayleigh Powell set up the West Berkshire Community Baby Bank to help the support services who in turn help vulnerable families, and she explains how it has grown during 2020 (p36). Richard Benyon has also had a life-changing year. After 14 years as Newbury’s MP he has left political life and is concentrating on the environment and sustainabiilty projects among other things (p30). Environmental issues have been on the agenda for many years, but this year in particular there has been a noticeable increase in how people perceive the world’s precious natural resources, even just appreciating the wildlife visiting our gardens during the enforced lockdown. In our new environment section (p79-83), Eleanor Gilbert, the Berkshire Farm Girl, continues her seasonal

diary and river keeper at Barton Court, Nick Richards, also starts a regular column highlighting what’s going on along the River Kennet. And we have some advice on how to keep our feathered friends happy and fed over the winter. And still on the theme of appreciating nature, I was lucky enough to be given a guided tour around the Malverleys in East Woodhay, where estate manager Mat Reese has spent the last 10 years transforming the beautiful gardens (p57). Sarah Bosley discovers the delights of stand up paddleboarding (p86), a healthy pursuit that offers a different view from the canal. The food section (p38-50) is packed with recipes, a review of The Crown & Garter, Inkpen, and even tips on creating your own wine cellar. We also found a nice circular walk, which begins an ends at the Red House Pub in Highclere. If we are in for a chilly season, there are some winter warmer fashion ideas (p8) and a four-page gift guide (p24) with some suggestions for food lovers, young readers and games to play with however big or small a gathering you are able to enjoy. As we head towards 2021, I am reminded of a Japanese proverb: ‘One kind word can warm three winter months’ – a little kindness does indeed go a long way, so be kind and look out for each other to help us all get through whatever lies ahead. Have a happy and safe winter.

Editor’s picks

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

Gift guide

A year of change

Garden state

24 PRESENT PERFECT

30 INTERVIEW

57 YEAR ROUND COLOUR Mat Reese has transformed the gardens at the Malverleys in East Woodhay

A selection of gifts – available online and on the high street

Richard Benyon, one year on from leaving politics

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O&A WINTER 2020