Crosfields School Opens Little Acorns Nursery

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Reading, UK – Crosfields School was delighted to open its newly renamed nursery,  Little Acorns, on 29 March 2025

This name beautifully reflects the journey of our pupils, who join us at the tender age of three and grow into strong, capable individuals, eventually becoming part of our Alumni programme, Crosfields Oaks, after leaving at Year 11.

The event was a resounding success, and we were thrilled to welcome many new families who were eager to tour our school site and explore the amazing facilities and opportunities available in our Pre-Prep, Junior and Senior sections. The event was also attended by several current families and pupils, as well as teaching staff with their little ones.  

An entertainer ensured the morning was filled with joy and excitement, keeping the children engaged through fun games, music, balloon modelling, and stick-on tattoos. Our youngest visitors also created Mother’s Day flower arrangements, decorated biscuits and enjoyed all the activities and games on offer. It was a wonderful opportunity for new families to see how their child could flourish through all that Little Acorns has to offer.

Mrs Janey McDowell, Head of Pre-Prep commented: “I am immensely proud of our outstanding Nursery staff, whose dedication and passion create a nurturing environment for our young learners. Our excellent facilities and the wide array of opportunities we offer ensure that every child is happy, stimulated, and excited to learn. It is truly heartwarming to see our children thrive and develop a love for learning from such an early age.”

About Little Acorns: Little Acorns provides a safe and nurturing space where every child can learn, grow and develop through play and exploration, fostering a love of learning and preparing them for life in Reception and beyond. We help them build friendships, manage their emotions and develop language and communication skills.  Children are nurtured by their class teachers and Nursery Nurses, and are taught by specialist teachers for French, games/PE, music, dance and Forest School. The children enjoy weekly lessons in our swimming pool with a variable depth floor. We aim to deliver the very best early educational experiences for your child, keeping up to date with recommendations for Early Years Development.

For more information about Little Acorns, please visit our website here or read more about the benefits about joining a pre-school Nursery here.

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St John’s Beaumont: An Ethos of Excellence Since 1888

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Nestled in 75 acres of picturesque woodlands and playing fields on the Surrey and Berkshire border, St John’s Beaumont Preparatory School stands as a beacon of educational excellence

Nestled in 75 acres of picturesque woodlands and playing fields on the Surrey and Berkshire border, St John’s Beaumont Preparatory School stands as a beacon of educational excellence.

Nurturing Young Minds: The St John’s Beaumont Nursery

The journey begins at the St John’s Beaumont Nursery, a nurturing and stimulating environment for children from the age of 3. Here, children embark on their educational adventure, developing essential social, emotional, and cognitive skills. The Nursery’s curriculum, which includes drama, music, swimming and forest school, encourages curiosity and exploration.

St John’s has recently introduced morning-only sessions for Nursery, offering greater flexibility for families. This option allows children to enjoy all the benefits of the Nursery’s exceptional early years education, without the extended day, perfect for those transitioning to school or looking for more flexible childcare arrangements.

We Secure Your Child’s Future…

St John’s Beaumont boasts a remarkable history of excellence in education. Our pupils and staff are dedicated to pursuing excellence in life and learning through a rich curriculum, diverse co-curricular activities, exceptional pastoral care, and a strong commitment to serving others. This holistic approach shapes well-rounded individuals who embody competence, conscience, compassion, and commitment, preparing them for success at the most competitive senior schools.

Compassion, Resilience, Confidence

Our pupils strive to go above and beyond. They grow their strengths and pursue new interests. There is no limit to what they can achieve.

At every step, the school nurtures pupils to be compassionate and resilient. This ethos develops confident young people who graduate from Year 8 ready to thrive at prestigious destination schools such as Wellington, Eton, Harrow, Winchester and Charterhouse.

Universal Values

Every pupil at St John’s Beaumont is cared for; their personal qualities valued and nurtured in the school community. Our curriculum extends beyond traditional academics to give opportunities for children to practise the actions that underpin our values. We believe that all of our pupils are innately compassionate and resilient, so our teachers guide them to express this through acts of kindness, community service projects and a rich curriculum full of new perspectives.

High Performance Learners

Teaching, both within and beyond the classroom is underpinned by High Performance Learning (HPL); a teaching philosophy that instils in pupils the cognitive abilities to become excellent learners. HPL embraces the mindset that everyone can become a high performer.

Our pupils are equipped to overcome life’s challenges and seize the boundless possibilities the world offers. They leave St John’s Beaumont with a growth mindset, ready to become the leaders of tomorrow.

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What to eat with Sherry

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Round and About Magazine’s resident wine columnist discovers the joys of pairing Sherry with good and makes some delicious finds 

Sherry: Do You Don’t Know What You’re Missing…

I love Sherry, there I’m out.  While it’s associated with Christmas and maiden aunts in some quarters, Sherry is one of the wine world’s great joys.  Sherry is remarkable not just for its brilliance, but also its versatility and food-friendliness.  While it’s often regarded as an aperitif/digestif, it’s also a great accompaniment to food as I discovered during a recent Sherry and food pairing session. 

First up, Tio Pepe (Sainsbury’s £13.50/£11.25 with Nectar).  Tio Pepe is one of those wines that I find endlessly appealing and there’s usually a bottle in our fridge.  Made from the Palamino Fino grape, it owes its pale colour and freshness to the film of yeast that grows on the wine’s surface, ‘flor’, which prevents oxidation and gives it its wonderful vibrancy and zest.  With its abundant apple, grape, and citrus fruit and almond and salt tang to the bone-dry finish, it’s perfect with seafood, white fish or poultry in a creamy sauce. 

Next, one of the lesser-known styles of Sherry, Palo Cortado. Palo Cortado starts life as a Fino but loses its protective flor and oxidises.  Crucially it maintains some of its crisp intensity while taking on a nutty, dried fruit flavour.  I tasted the Palo Cortado en Rama from Barbadillo (The Wine Society £20) and was utterly blown away.  Loaded with dried fruits, hints of peel, honey, and roasted nuts, a seam of citrusy acidity kept it lively and bright with exotic spices adding even more interest at the finish.  I had this with gazpacho soup and chorizo, and it was a delight, but I could see it working well with mushroom dishes or hard cheeses. 

When it comes to food and wine matching, Amontillado Sherry hasn’t been a wine I’ve done much with.  At tastings, there are invariably pieces of Manchego, pots of olives (no thanks!), or plates of tapas on hand, but I’ve always found this dark, nutty style of wine a fine solo sipper.  This changed when I tasted the Vina AB 12-Year-Old Amontillado (Majestic £18,99 or £16.99 on a mixed six).  Amontillado is another wine that starts life as a Fino and continues to age in barrel once the flor has died.  The difference here is that it receives 12 years of ageing in cask.  The result is a nutty dry wine with the full complement of dried fruits, nuts, mocha, and liquorice but with a zingy, grapefruit and lime freshness.  I tasted this with mussels, tiger prawns with chilli and coriander, cold pork, and mushroom pâte and it worked wonderfully well with them all.  The Vina AB was something of a revelation, so if you’re one of those people who’ve tried Amontillado and weren’t sure, I’d urge you to look at this one. 

When it comes to Sherry with power and concentration Oloroso sets the pace.  This mighty, brooding wine is typically loaded with dried fruits, coffee, black treacle, honey, roasted hazelnuts and a touch of overripe fruit sweetness to the dry, firm, spicy finish.  At its best, it’s a magnificent wine that can pair well with everything from French onion soup and cheese fondue to game pie and lamb tagine.  González Byass ‘Alfonso’ Oloroso (Master of Malt £17.50) is a fine example of this revered wine.   I tried it lightly chilled and even with red meats, something I was sceptical about, it shone. 

If you have a sweet tooth or are looking for something to pair with desserts, then a sweet Sherry is for you.  While a lot of people think all Sherry is sweet, over 95% of it is dry.  A great sweet Sherry, such as Gonzalez Byass’s Nectar (The Whisky Exchange £19.95) is a rare treat.  Produced from Pedro Ximenez grapes, it’s luscious, powerful, sweet and gloriously indulgent.  Offering barrel-loads of dried fruits, caramel, fudge, mocha, and hazelnuts it could easily be too much of a good thing, but the tangy, juicy acidity keeps everything balanced.  I had this with blue cheese, a strawberry, tart, and over vanilla ice cream and it was sublime.  I even had it with chocolate cake, a traditional no-no for wine, and it added spice and cleansed the palate perfectly. 

I’ll finish with one of the most extraordinary Sherries I’ve ever tasted, the Apostoles Palo Cortado Viejo VORS (Majestic £29.99/£26.99 on a mixed six).  The name’s quite a mouthful and so is the wine.  This Palo Cortado is aged for 30 years in barrel during which time it takes on a deep brown hue and the dried fruit and nut flavours become even more concentrated.  Unctuous, yet dry, there’s a caramel overtone to it that vies with the Fino’s acidity to create a wine of stunning complexity, depth and interest.  While I’d happily sit and ponder this beauty on its own, it works wonderfully well with pâte, cured meats and creamy cheeses.  

I do hope you will try some of these amazing wines.  The quality and value are peerless and with spring’s fine weather hopefully on the way, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a finer alfresco sipper.  

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New Tuscan Wines | San Felice

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Round & About Magazine’s resident wine columnist Giles Luckett talks to Leonardo Bellaccini of San Felice as he explores Chianti’s new style of wine

San Felice: Tradition Meets Innovation in Tuscany

When most wine lovers think of Tuscan wines, their thoughts turn to picturesque hillside vineyards and ancient stone cellars in which traditional wines such as Chianti and Brunello di Montalcino are produced.  It’s a charming, romantic vision that befits this stunning region.  A thought that’s less likely to cross their minds is ‘innovative’, and that’s to do this 3,000-year-old winemaking region a disservice.  Late in the twentieth century, Tuscany morphed into a hotbed of invention as quality-focused producers sought to take the region’s wines to new heights.  The results have been incredible as I discovered when I looked at a flight of wines from the pioneers at San Felice and caught up with their winemaker, Leonardo Bellaccini, whose wines blend modernity with tradition to wonderful effect. 

Giles: Would you sum up your winemaking philosophy as innovation meets tradition? 

Leonardo: Ours is a classical approach but with a Bordeaux influence, so 20-25 days of skin contact and fermentation temperatures [for red wines] of around 28 degrees.  As climate change takes hold and consumers seek more elegant, less alcoholic wines, so we are reducing these to give the fruit greater prominence without reducing complexity.  We’re also cutting back on the amount of wood we’re using as wood can mask the character of the wine.  The Borgo, for example, only utilises large Slavonian oak casks, not small [225 litres barriques common in Bordeaux] ones. 

Chianti Classico Borgo 2022 (Tannico £32.90) is a glorious blue-black wine from which aromas of black cherries, blackberries, blackcurrants and a touch of nutty wood rise.  The palate is rich, but not overpowering, and loaded with bramble, black cherry and plum fruit.  Well-delineated and precise, it has a very modern feel to it, the rounded tannins, seam of spicy oak juicy berries coming in at the finish adding spices and a shot of freshness.  Give this a few hours open and serve with charcuterie or roasted red meats.  

G: Over the last 20 years or so there’s been much more attention paid to the concept of terroir in Tuscan wines, what makes your terroir so special? 

L: At San Felice, we have a collection of terroirs ranging from limestone nearest the winery to sand, gravel, clay and marl.  It provides a wonderful palate with which to work as grapes like Sangiovese, Pugnitello, and Chardonnay respond differently on different soils.  In the ‘60s/’70s, and ’80s when production was the soils were not respected.  We’ve reversed that by reducing tractor use to avoid compacting, planted cover crops, our composts are home-made from vine trimmings and skins, and this regenerative approach is breathing life into the soil.  We understand now that terroir is an eco-system: soil, plus microbiology, plus weather. 

This attention to terroir has seen winemakers planting grapes that haven’t historically been associated with the region.  San Felice’s In Avane (£25.40 Vino.com), for example, blends Chardonnay, Semillon and Sauvignon Blanc to startling effect.  Wonderfully elegant and fresh tasting, it draws out the best of all three varietals to produce a beautifully complete whole.  Pale gold, the bouquet offers white flowers, peaches, pears and a hint of grapefruit.  In the mouth, it’s clean and lean, with stone fruits, apples and melon offset by creamy oak and a touch of butter.  This would be glorious with monkfish, lobster and was perfect with roasted guinea fowl. 

G: Pugnitello is a grape I’ve not come across before, is this a San Felice speciality? 

L: Pugnitello, meaning ‘little fist’, is an ancient grape that almost became extinct.  We worked with the universities of Pisa and Florence and planted a small experimental vineyard in 1987, and we now have 12 hectares of it.  I think it fell from favour as it gives low yields, small bunches of grapes that can be hard to find behind the ample foliage, and it’s also prone to mildew.  The quality is high though and it blends well with Sangiovese or as a varietal wine. 

The San Felice Pugnitello 2021 (Hedonism £50) is a seriously fine wine.  Youthful and feisty, with a knockout bouquet of red cherries, blackcurrants, green herbs and spices, complimented by a touch of balsamic.  On the palate, it’s firm, refined, polished and elegant – stylistically and structurally there’s more than a passing resemblance to a Bordeaux.  Sweet and sour cherries, fruits of the forest, mocha, minerals and creamy, spiced vanilla come together to give a nuanced glassful.  Serve this now with roasted red meats or hearty cheese-based dishes, or squirrel away for another 5-10+ years and enjoy as a mellow solo sipper. 

G: Climate change is a massive issue for winemakers worldwide.  How is it affecting Tuscany and what measures is San Felice taking to address it?  Is excessive heat, storms, and drought changing the nature of the wines, and will there be a move to introduce new varieties as they have done in Bordeaux? 

L: We’re moving to organic methods, and we’re already certified as sustainable.  We’re great believers in sustainability.  For the past 15 years we’ve been self-sufficient in power, and we collect all the water from our hotel and pump it into a lake for recycling, and we dry farm [no irrigation].  Many of the region’s producers are looking to higher vineyards.  The highest [over 600m] were once deemed as second class but these are now becoming sought after.  The wines’ character has also changed.  In the 1990s they were driven by acidity and green tannins, but post-2000 climate change, producer changes and vineyard management have seen them become far more rounded and complex. 

San Felice Gran Selezione La Pieve 2021 (Tannico £46.90) perfectly reflected Leonardo’s observations. Gone are the red cherry, raspberry, and green herbs flavours of old, replaced by deeper, rounded, sumptuous glassful.  Dark ruby red, it offers aromas of cherries, toasted almonds, and blackberries with supporting savoury tones of tobacco and liquorice.  Full-bodied and rich, it doesn’t overwhelm but slowly reveals layers of black berries, cherries, minerals, and blackberries at the end.  Enjoy with roasted game birds or roasted Mediterranean vegetables. 

G: Nicholas Belfrage MW wrote in his 2001 book ‘Brunello to Zibibbo’ that thanks to better site and clonal selection in 25 years, so now, that Sangiovese would finally reach its full potential.  Do you think that’s true? 

L: Many of us worked hard in the 1980s/1990s on the Chianti Classic 2000 project.  This involved a massive amount of research and experimentation into rootstocks, planting densities, and canopy management – something that’s become vital in the face of climate change.  This and the switch from quantity to quality has seen the overall quality of the Sangiovese we’re getting improve significantly.  While the maximum yields allowed in Chianti Classic are 7.5 tonnes per hectare, we’re getting 6.5 tonnes at most. 

Re-tasting San Felice’s more traditional style of Chianti bore out Belfrage’s prediction.  The 2021 Chianti Classico Riserva, Il Grigio (Songbird Wines £21) offered a bouquet of plush red fruits backed by plums, dried cherries, with savoury tobacco, roasted almond and a hint of mint.  In the mouth, it had a silken texture populated by rich black fruits, with layers of black cherry, plum, loganberry and juicy berries that make it perfect for the Sunday roast. 

Thank you, Leonardo. 

San Felice is a credit to Tuscany and their passion for it and their desire to see its wines take their rightful place amongst the world’s finest is laudable.  More importantly, wines such as these are delicious and well-worth seeking out.   

Cheers! Giles

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Oxford Science Studies Easter Revision Course

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Get Exam Ready with Bespoke, Subject Specific, Student Led Revision Courses

Oxford Science Studies (OXSS), revision specialists since 1997 will be holding their biggest course of the year over the Easter holidays.  Offering students the chance to maximise their holiday time, studying in a structured learning environment, students can benefit from time with expert tutors, available to assist with challenging topics or content.  Running for 3 weeks, this in person course is offered on a day only or residential basis, held at the glorious campus location of St Edward’s School, on the Woodstock Road in Oxford.  Tuition takes place Monday through Friday, with students required to attend the full week. 

Focus on multiple subjects per week

Courses are available for students aged 14 to 19 years, focusing on their GCSE, IGCSE, IB and A Level studies.  Understanding that students focus on multiple subjects, OXSS offer students the opportunity to focus on up to 3 subject options per week, with one and a half days spent on each.  Their trusted test and teach method, with tutorials lasting up to an optimum length of 50 minutes, followed by independent exam practice, allows students to review subject content, then putting learning into practice.  A process of continual learning and development, allowing students to uncover any gaps, gain better familiarity and understanding of the types of questions they will face, and how to approach them, as well as aiming to boost overall confidence.

Small class sizes with a student-led approach

With bespoke timetables created for each student, the class sizes offered are relatively small, with a maximum of 6 students timetabled per class.  Classes are relatively specific allowing students to get the help that they need.  With their student-led approach, students are advised to attend with a list of topics in mind that they would like to focus on.  This means that they are best prepared and can review this with the tutors at the start of their teaching, making the most of their time.

Evening activities for relaxation included too

For those residential students, OXSS also offer an Evening Entertainment Programme, offering activities aimed at providing some relaxation time, as well as the chance to work on personal development, interacting with new people and building friendships.  Activities may include a visit from a Magician, debate, or gaming nights, as well as various sports.

Reports provided

Following the course, all parents/guardians receive detailed reports for each of the subjects, giving feedback regarding the topics covered as well as areas for future study.  These can be instrumental in guiding students in their final stages of revision.

Follow up assistance available

OXSS also offer Year-Round Online Subject Tuition which provides the perfect opportunity for students to carry on any work started during their Easter Revision Course, even requesting a specific tutor.  This is available by the hour, at dates and times to suit them.  Ideal in the lead up to exams.

Easter Revision Course

Dates:
Week 1: Monday 31st March to Friday 4th April
Week 2: Monday 7th to Friday 11th April
Week 3: Monday 14th to Friday 18th April

Address: St Edward’s School, Woodstock Road, Oxford, OX2 7NN

Fees:
A Level & IB Students
•  £1,155.00 per week, day only, plus VAT of 20%
•  £1,585.00 per week, residential, plus VAT of 20%
GCSE & IGCSE Students
•  £1,075.00 per week, day only, plus VAT of 20%
•  £1,505.00 per week, residential, plus VAT of 20%

Applications:
To apply, please visit oxss.co.uk/apply For enquiries, please visit oxss.co.uk/contact

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The Cripple of Inishmaan

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Written by by Martin McDonagh, The Cripple of Inishmaan will be at Progress Theatre, Reading, RG1 5HL Friday 2nd May 2025 – Saturday 10th May 2025 

“Ireland can’t be that bad if the Yanks want to come here to film.” 

Set in 1934 on the small island of Inishmaan, this darkly comic tale follows Billy Clavan, a disabled orphan living with his adoptive aunts. Life on the island is full of eccentricities—where villagers break eggs on priests, throw bricks at cows, and gossip about sheep with no ears in exchange for eggs. Billy, dreaming of escape, sees an opportunity when a Hollywood film crew arrives on a nearby island to film The Man of Aran. To seize his chance, he just needs to convince Babbybobby to row him across. 

Written by the Oscar-winning playwright of In Bruges, Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri, and The Banshees of Inisherin, this production is a captivating blend of dark humor and emotional depth. 

Please note that the performance on Tuesday 6th May will be a Relaxed Performance, designed to offer a more inclusive experience. Additionally, some themes in the play may be distressing to certain audiences. A full list of content warnings is available. 

Tickets are available at Ticket Source. 

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Meaningful Activities at Forest Care!

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Forest Care’s award-winning activity teams prioritise resident wellbeing through a variety of meaningful and joyful activities and experiences across their Surrey and Hampshire homes

Activities are adapted to the daily wishes of residents and their cultural interests and supported by their life-stories in line with Forest Care’s ethos of a person-centred approach to care.

Some of the many activities include cultural days, classic car events, themed tea parties and dining experiences, floristry workshops, wildlife talks, arts & crafts, beauty sessions, outdoor games, trips out to nearby attractions, live musical entertainers – tap, jive and Irish dancers, harpists and accordionists, Motown singers, tribute acts – and visiting animals – alpacas, Shetland ponies, monkeys and even penguins to name a few! Community outreach is important at Forest Care as well as intergenerational activities with local nurseries and school children.

Forest Care is a member of the National Activity Provider Association (NAPA), a leading activity charity, and were delighted that four of their team members, who have shown such commitment and passion in their roles at Forest Care, were award winners and finalists at NAPA’s recent awards. Forest Care’s Group Activity Lead Terri Eakins won the ‘Leadership Award’, Cedar Lodge’s Activity Lead Wendy Watmore won the ‘Lifetime Achievement Award’, Holly Lodge’s Activity Lead Shelley Jouhning received a highly commended ‘Rising Star Award’ and Oak Lodge’s Home Administrator Jacqui Vickery received a highly commended ‘Unsung Hero Award’.

Forest Care is a family-owned company providing care for more than 44 years. They are extremely proud of their award-winning care homes that are “homes” in the truest sense and thank their local communities for trusting them to care for their loved ones.

Forest Care homes are always open for viewings, but there is an Open Day at Cedar Lodge (Frimley) on Thursday 17th April from 10am-5pm, and at Elm Lodge (Hartley Wintney) on Saturday 19th April from 10am-5pm. Book a personal viewing to experience their warm and welcoming environments, call 0333 305 1785 or email enquiries@forestcare.co.uk

Hear from one of their residents and a relative at Cedar Lodge Care Home in Frimley:

Take a virtual tour: https://www.forestcare.co.uk/virtual-tours/

Visit their website: www.forestcare.co.uk

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Woking Young Musicians 2025

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Young flautist Hanhan Qu said she feels “thrilled” to have won the Gordon Brown Woking Young Musician Trophy for the second year in succession.

Woking Music Festival hosted its annual Young Musician competition on Saturday 8th February featuring performances from eight outstanding performers vying for the title of Woking Young Musician 2025, as well as various other award winners.

Adjudicator Georg Caird called the evening “an amazing concert” and added “you are all winners”, expressing his effusive optimism for the future musical careers of these outstanding performers.

Additionally, Caird, a renowned oboist, commented on the winner 15-year-old Hanhan Qu, who played a “phenomenal showpiece” by Chant de Linos “in a way that was sheerly impressive”.

Qu who won £400 in addition to the trophy, said: “I feel thrilled to win again and it was very nice to share a new piece which was a full dimension piece and captured the attention of the audience. It has been a different performance this year in that I was playing for the audience and loved sharing my passion for performing with them. I hope to continue to inspire this and the next generation of young musicians. Thank you to the Woking Young Musicians committee for being so supportive.”

Second place was awarded to 19-year-old harpist Jamaal Kashim. Jamaal was a participant in the BBC Young Musician of the Year 2024, reaching the semi-final round. He performed the Fire Dance by composer David Watkins who had won the first Woking Young Musician trophy in 1979. Jamal collected the Yorkshire Building Society Trophy and £325.

Anxo Garcia, a 16-year-old pianist was awarded third place, £250 and the H R Taylor Charitable Trust Trophy. He impressed the adjudicator with his impeccable Debussy toccata as well as his breathtaking interpretation of Chopin’s third Ballade.

All other competitors: Rentarou Nito, Liliia Konstantinova, Nicholas Yang, Jerry Liu and  Miriam Grant received a cash prize of £125.

In a packed St John’s Church, the audience, which included The Deputy Mayor of Woking Cllr Amanda Boote and MP Will Forester, was captivated with solo performances from the Young Musician competitors as well as the other outstanding award winners including: Junior Musicians of the Year (Leah Yan and Anaiyah Kashim); Most Promising Young Singer of the Year (Chloe Ayres); Most Promising Young Actor Award (Hattie Wisby); Chamber Music Award  Hanhan and Alex Qu); Most Memorable Performance of the Year (Harry Gordon – Bagpipes);  Best Choral Performance of the Festival (A Capella ); Dame Ethyl Smyth Award, best performance of a work by a female composer (Yash Saran).

Jamaal Kashim was further awarded a bursary to participate in a Music Summer School.

Mel Benyon, chairman of Woking Young Musician Trust said: “It was a real privilege to be at the Woking Young Musician of the Year final last night. Words fail me. As though the first half wasn’t enough, we had the added bonus of hearing those who had won all the other prizes offered by the competition.
“We thank the Deputy Mayor of Woking Cllr Amanda Boote for presenting the awards as well as our sponsors and friends of the festival for all their ongoing support to enable the evening to be such a tremendous success.

“Well done and many congratulations to our prize winners of the evening.”

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Astrology & Tarot for March

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What’s in store for you this month? Melanie Harding, founder of Soul Healing Guidance, offers some useful guidance for all signs to help you navigate March 

Aries (March 21 – April 20)

March asks you to pause for a moment, Aries. With Venus retrograde on the 1st and Mercury soon following on the 3rd, you might feel like your usual fiery drive is a little dampened.  

Relationships may feel strained at times, and communication could get a little tangled, but don’t fret—patience is your secret weapon this month. The 14th’s Lunar Eclipse invites reflection and clarity, especially regarding your professional aspirations. Come the 20th, when the Sun enters your sign, you’ll feel your usual bold energy return, ready to lead and inspire once again.  

Pay close attention to your inner wisdom, especially around the 29th, when the Solar Eclipse offers deep insights into your next steps. 

Tarot Insight: The Hierophant 

The Hierophant brings wisdom and structure to your path. This month, you may find comfort in seeking guidance from mentors or turning to traditional wisdom. It’s a great time to revisit your long-term goals and reinforce the foundations you’ve built. Embrace the lessons that come your way, as they’ll help you grow in meaningful ways. 

Taurus (April 21 – May 20)

March encourages you to look inward, Taurus. With Venus retrograde and Mercury also moving backwards mid-month, relationships and finances may feel a bit disjointed. Patience is key — don’t rush to resolve things right away. The 14th’s Lunar Eclipse may highlight areas of your life that need creative rethinking, especially around your personal values. On the 27th, Venus moves forward, bringing clarity and smoothness to your social and romantic life. As the Solar Eclipse on the 29th unfolds, take time for self-care and reflect on the beauty in your life. Trust that things are aligning even if you can’t see it all just yet. 

Tarot Insight: 4 of Wands 

This card heralds a time of celebration and completion. The 4 of Wands is a reminder to pause and appreciate the achievements you’ve made so far. It encourages you to connect with loved ones and share in the joy of what you’ve built. Look for opportunities to relax and enjoy the fruits of your hard work. 

Gemini (May 21 – June 20)

This month, Gemini, things may feel like a bit of a whirlwind. Venus retrograde may stir the pot in relationships, and Mercury’s retrograde mid-month could muddy your usual sparkling communication. Take care with misunderstandings, especially in work-related conversations. The Lunar Eclipse on the 14th might give you a sudden burst of insight, encouraging you to take a step back and reassess your life direction. The Solar Eclipse on the 29th is a great moment to kick off new creative projects or even embrace a new way of thinking. Don’t be afraid to shake things up— it’s all part of your journey toward growth. 

Tarot Insight: 2 of Pentacles 

The 2 of Pentacles encourages you to find balance amidst the chaos. You may feel stretched thin, juggling responsibilities at work or at home, but don’t worry—you have what it takes to manage it all. Embrace adaptability and prioritise your time wisely. Flexibility will help you navigate this month’s shifts with ease. 

Cancer (June 21 – July 22)

March is about finding your emotional balance, Cancer. With Venus retrograde, relationships may go through some growing pains, but Mercury’s retrograde could add even more confusion to the mix. Don’t jump to conclusions—take your time in deciding what feels right for you. The Lunar Eclipse on the 14th may bring unresolved emotions to the surface, urging you to face them head-on. 

As the Sun moves into Aries on the 20th, focus on professional matters and long-term goals. By the 29th, the Solar Eclipse could bring fresh career opportunities your way. Trust that things are falling into place, even if they feel a little out of sync right now. 

Tarot Insight: 5 of Pentacles 

The 5 of Pentacles highlights challenges, particularly those of an emotional or financial nature. It may feel like you’re on the outs, but this card reminds you that help is available if you’re willing to seek it. Don’t hesitate to lean on your support network, and trust that this phase will pass with patience and perseverance.

Leo (July 23 – August 22)

March may throw a few financial curveballs your way, Leo. With Venus retrograde and Mercury going retro mid-month, it’s best to hold off on big financial decisions for now. The 14th’s Lunar Eclipse may bring sudden insights into your spending habits or long-term goals. By the 20th, when the Sun enters Aries, you’ll feel a spark of adventure, and travel could be in the cards. However, be cautious as Mercury retrograde suggests that now might not be the best time for major trips. The Solar Eclipse on the 29th could bring clarity to financial or business matters, paving the way for new plans. 

Tarot Insight: 7 of Swords 

The 7 of Swords encourages you to be cautious with your plans and avoid taking shortcuts. You may be tempted to act quickly, but this card warns of possible deception or the need for secrecy. 

Take your time and stay strategic, especially when it comes to money matters or professional negotiations. 

Virgo (August 23 – September 22)

March asks you to reconnect with yourself, Virgo. Venus retrograde may stir up past relationship issues, while Mercury’s retrograde will make communication tricky, especially when it comes to sensitive topics. The Lunar Eclipse on the 14th highlights areas where you can improve your sense of self-worth and emotional boundaries. When the Sun enters Aries on the 20th, you’ll feel a renewed sense of purpose in your career and ambitions. The Solar Eclipse on the 29th offers a fresh start in love and creativity, but be mindful of Mercury’s retrograde when making any big decisions. 

Tarot Insight: Page of Cups 

The Page of Cups brings a wave of creativity and emotional growth. This card invites you to explore new emotional territory and be open to the unexpected. Whether it’s a new romantic connection or a creative project, the Page of Cups encourages you to embrace your intuition and follow your heart. 

Libra (September 23 – October 22)

March is a time for reflection and rest, Libra. With Venus retrograde, relationships could feel a little off-balance, and Mercury’s retrograde will add to the communication misfires. However, the Lunar Eclipse on the 14th might bring clarity about emotional needs or desires you’ve been neglecting. 

The 20th’s Sun entering Aries invites you to focus on personal goals and deeper self-care. The Solar Eclipse on the 29th might bring a new, exciting romantic prospect your way, but take your time. 

Trust your instincts when it comes to matters of the heart, and remember that sometimes, slowing down is the most empowering choice. 

Tarot Insight: 9 of Wands 

The 9 of Wands reminds you to keep pushing forward, even when things feel tough. You may be feeling worn out or uncertain, but this card encourages you to draw on your inner strength and keep going. You’re closer to achieving your goals than you think—don’t give up just yet. 

Scorpio (October 23 – November 22)

March promises a month of bold moves, Scorpio. Venus retrograde will encourage you to review personal relationships, especially those you feel are not serving your higher good. With Mercury’s retrograde from the 15th, there may be moments when you feel like you’re in overdrive—take care with your words and avoid rushing decisions. The 14th’s Lunar Eclipse brings a surge of clarity, especially in matters of the heart. The Solar Eclipse on the 29th may offer new career opportunities. 

Trust your instincts—you’re on the brink of a breakthrough! 

Tarot Insight: Knight of Swords 

The Knight of Swords brings a burst of energy and determination. This is a card of swift action, and it urges you to make quick decisions, especially regarding career or personal goals. However, be mindful of rushing without proper consideration—strategy and planning will help you stay on track. 

Sagittarius (November 23 – December 21)

March calls for a deep dive into your finances and career, Sagittarius. With Venus retrograde, there may be delays or misunderstandings at work, and Mercury’s retrograde will slow down important conversations. The 14th’s Lunar Eclipse will provide clarity around any money or business-related 

matters. As the Sun moves into Aries on the 20th, your ambition soars, making it an ideal time to push forward in your professional life. The Solar Eclipse on the 29th could bring a fresh perspective on your career path, but patience is essential during this retrograde period. 

Tarot Insight: Queen of Pentacles 

The Queen of Pentacles speaks of abundance and practicality. She encourages you to stay grounded in your approach to work, finances, and family. This card highlights the importance of nurturing what’s already in place and making thoughtful, well-planned decisions. Trust in your ability to bring both security and creativity to the table. 

Capricorn (December 22 – January 19)

March is a month for deep personal reflection, Capricorn. Venus retrograde may lead you to reassess your relationships, while Mercury’s retrograde will bring a shift in communication, particularly with loved ones or colleagues. The Lunar Eclipse on the 14th helps you gain perspective on your emotional needs, while the Solar Eclipse on the 29th could bring the clarity you’ve been seeking in career matters. Trust that things are unfolding exactly as they should, even if it takes a little time to see the bigger picture. 

Tarot Insight: Queen of Swords 

The Queen of Swords brings clarity and intellect. She urges you to be clear-headed and direct in your dealings, particularly when it comes to important decisions. This card is a reminder to trust your intuition and cut through any confusion with a sharp and decisive mind. 

Aquarius (January 20 – February 19)

March is a month for change and transformation, Aquarius. With Venus retrograde, you might be feeling a bit disconnected in relationships, but the Lunar Eclipse on the 14th brings a shift in perspective, especially around love and creativity. The 29th’s Solar Eclipse opens the door for new financial opportunities, but Mercury’s retrograde warns against making hasty decisions. Neptune’s move into Aries on the 30th sparks your creative imagination, so embrace this time to explore new ideas and paths forward. 

Tarot Insight: 6 of Swords 

The 6 of Swords signals a time of transition and personal growth. You’re moving away from the old and stepping into something brighter. Whether it’s letting go of old patterns or embracing new challenges, the journey ahead is one of healing and discovery. Trust in the process and keep moving forward. 

Pisces (February 20 – March 20)

March offers a mix of introspection and inspiration, Pisces. Venus retrograde may bring past relationships or unresolved feelings back into the spotlight, and Mercury’s retrograde complicates communication, particularly with those close to you. However, the Lunar Eclipse on the 14th gives you clarity on your emotional needs and desires. The Solar Eclipse on the 29th marks a time of new beginnings, especially in your career and creative pursuits. Stay grounded and trust that your intuition will guide you through any uncertainties. 

Tarot Insight: 10 of Cups 

The 10 of Cups brings a promise of happiness, emotional fulfilment, and harmony within your relationships. This card celebrates the joy that comes from connection and the peace that follows after a period of growth. Embrace the love and support around you, knowing that your dreams are within reach. 

For more info & insights please visit soulhealingguidance.co.uk 

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Rioja’s Finest Wines: Viñedo Singular  

Round & About

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Round & About Magazine’s resident wine columnist Giles Luckett looks the best Rioja wines and finds a unique combination of brilliance and value  

Rioja is probably my favourite wine region. Bad bottles are rarer than hen’s dentures and when it comes to affordable fine wines, it’s peerless.  

Key to its modern (post-Franco) success is its regulation. Rioja is one of the most regulated wine regions in the world, with everything from permitted grape varieties (14 if you’re interested, see me after class for more details) and yields to the type and length of barrel and bottle ageing being legally prescribed. 

Curiously unlike many other fine wine regions, relatively little has been done to classify the wines. Unlike somewhere like Bordeaux where classifications litter labels such as Manager’s Choice stickers in Majestic, Rioja’s governing body has traditionally let the bodegas’ reputations speak for themselves.

In 2017, however, a new classification was introduced, the Viñedo Singular. It aimed to recognise the best of the best, to single out vineyards that had exceptional terroir and which met strict criteria such as the wine’s need to come from classified vineyards with vines that are at least 35 years old, are hand-harvested, and have extremely low yields. It’s a classification that has much in common with the Cru system that operates in Burgundy, and only 133 vineyards have been granted this elevated status. Unlike Burgundy, these beauties are remarkably well-priced as I discovered during a recent tasting. 

White Rioja is a secret star of the region. Although white grapes only account for 10% of Rioja’s plantings, when white Rioja is good, it’s a world-class wine. A delicious example is the Bodegas Perica, Finca Valdelascarretas 2020 (Thorne Wines £36.95). Just 375 cases of this pear, apricot, orange peel, honey and dried fruit-scented wine were produced, and on the palate, there’s a wonderful tension between honey-dipped, yellow-skinned fruits and the firm, cleansing lemony acidity. Bone dry but with a luxurious body imparted by the length of oak ageing, this is a great example of this underrated wine. 

Beronia may not be the oldest producer in Rioja having been founded by a group of wine-loving friends in 1973, but in a relatively short period they’ve managed to carve out an outstanding reputation. Made in the traditional style using modern techniques, the Beronia Reserva (Sainsbury’s £16.50) is a staple in our house. Their Viñedo Singular is the Vareia by Beronia (Wines of the World £41). This is a wine that screams old-world charm and speaks volumes about Beronia’s commitment to excellence. Very deeply coloured even for a Rioja, the juicy, rich stewed plum, blackberry and black cherry fruit is supported by a firm set of rounded tannins and bordered by a lively yet gentle red berry acidity. The ample oak isn’t allowed to mask the fruit and has been skilfully integrated to add cigar smoke and cream to the mix. Lovely now, it’s got a great future. 

The Bodegas Tarón, Tarón Cepas Centenarias was new to me, but it’s a wine I shall seek out again. Produced from 100-year-old Tempranillo vines grown at 500m above sea level, this is Rioja at its most intense. Wonderfully deeply coloured, the nose is a heady mix of black berries, mulberries, sage, liquorice and vanilla spice. Mouth-filling and rich, the French oak ageing adds a creamy note with the fresh, loganberry acidity, fine, grainy tannins and chalky finish making it a wonderful partner to red meats or yellow cheeses. This will age magnificently. 

It was love at first sight and sip for me with the Azabache Coscojares Vinedo Singular Rioja 2018 (Findlays £38.99). How could you not love this dumpy little bottle? Made exclusively from Garnacha at an altitude of 520m, this is Rioja refinement par excellence. Deep red with a sumptuous nose of cassis, cherries, plums, toasty vanilla, and a touch of balsamic, the Christmas cake-rich palate is wonderfully fruity and super smooth, and there’s savoury tobacco, sage, mint, and orange zest on the finish. Lovely now, there’s a lot more to come from this, and if you’re lucky enough to find the 2019, expect even more. What a wine!

Next, a wine that warrants its 98/100 score from The Wine Advocate, the Bodega Lanzaga, Tabuerniga Rioja 2020 (VINUM £87). The brainchild of one of Spain’s greatest winemakers, Telmo Rodriguez, with its fragrant blend of wild herbs, dusty earth, olives and spices it’s wonderfully evocative of the land on which it was produced. Cherry red, and with a silky smooth, polished feel, it offers delicious tones of red berries, cherries, aged balsamic, woody spices and blackberries to the finish. Powerful yet refined, decant and enjoy this now with fine foods or stash it away for another decade or more.

As we’re talking Rioja, I’d like to add the following to my list of Rioja’s royalty. These wines don’t meet the criteria for Viñedo Singular principally as they aren’t single vineyard wines, but in all other respects, they are unquestionably amongst Rioja’s titans. 

Contino is widely regarded as one of Rioja’s greatest estates and the Contino Reserva 2020 (Tesco £27) is a brilliant example of this famed producer’s wines. Only made in excellent years with 2020 being rated by the governing body, the Consejo Regulador de la Denominación de Origen Calificada Rioja, as ‘Very Good’, this is a mighty, magnificent wine, one that drinks well young but has seemingly endless ageing potential. Blue-black, the nose is an exotic mix of blackberries and blueberries furled in a spicy vanilla and herb coating.  Full-bodied and well-textured, on the palate there is everything from plums and cassis to citrus peel and sage by way of charcoal and raspberries.  Buy a case now (trust me, it’s a bargain) enjoy a couple now with roasted red meats or feisty cheese and drink the rest over the coming decade or so.

I can’t mention Rioja’s royalty and not recommend a wine by C.V.N.E. I honestly don’t think I’ve ever had a bad wine from them, and I’ve tasted their wines a lot. The Cune Crianza (Sainsbury’s £10.95) and their Cune Barrel Fermented Rioja Blanco (Majestic £10.99) are brilliant wines that offer exceptional value for money. For this article though I’ll highlight the Vina Real La Virgen 2020 (VINUM £65.90). Produced from 40-year-old vines on a tiny two-hectare plot which lies in the foothills of the Toloño mountains which afford it protection from winds and gives the grapes warm days and cool nights during the growing season.  This preserves the acidity and gives the wine its distinctive elegance. This is an enchanting but serious wine.  Its bouquet boasts blackberries, blueberries, currants and liquorice, while the soft palate is loaded with succulent black fruits enhanced by notes of cherries, chocolate, vanilla and vibrant red berries on the finish. Perfect with roast lamb, this is a joy with game birds, hard cheeses, it’s got time on its side and will become a mellow, smoked berry beauty in another few years. 

Muga is another of my favourite bodegas, with a line-up of red wines that are fit to grace the finest tables. While the Muga Reserva (Majestic £19.99) is delicious, if you’re looking for extraordinary then the Muga Selección Especial Reserva (Waitrose £30) is for you. Texturally this has something in common with the Imperial in that it has a luscious, silky feel that comes from the long ageing in oak, but I always find there’s a little less freshness here and a slightly smokier tone to the abundant black fruits. Powerful and intense, expect wave after wave of plum, blackberry and blueberry fruit, exotic spices, bitter chocolate and a firm, red berry finish. I’ve always found this better with a few years in bottle but if you can’t wait, give it several hours open before serving.

I’ll finish with a confession of obsession. I’m completely obsessed with Contino’s Viña del Olivo Rioja (Waitrose £68) as is it is one of the greatest Riojas I have ever tasted. Taking its name from an 800-year-old olive tree that grows in the vineyard, it’s made from a blend of Tempranillo and Graciano which explains its elegance and refinement. Gorgeously deeply coloured – the 2020’s rim shows almost no gradation to pink – the bouquet makes it unhurried way from the glass wafting scents of cassis, dried herbs, olives, and dusty minerals. In the mouth, it’s at once reserved and generous. The taut, muscular body slowly reveals its ample charms with gentle swirling, presenting a Bordeaux-like mix of black fruits, chocolate and red berries only with herbs, a touch of clay-iron, and woodsmoke. This fascinating, beguiling wine draws you in and holds your attention to the last forlorn sip. 

I do hope you will try some of these fantastic wines. Next time out I’ll be looking at some super Tuscan wines with a producer profile on San Felice.

Cheers, 
Giles 

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