Frimley & Camberley Society of Arts

Karen Neville

Be inspired by the talented members of Frimley & Camberley Society of Arts and vote for your favourite at the annual exhibition on September 13th & 14th at High Cross Church

Frimley & Camberley Society of Arts is getting ready for its annual exhibition, the main event of the society which was formed in 1961.

FCSA are a friendly group of amateur and professional artists of all abilities and interests who meet to paint together every second Friday of the year.

Members enjoy a varied programme of events including workshops and demonstrations from visiting professional artists as well as meeting regularly to paint together every second Friday of the year.

Members enjoy a varied programme of events including workshops and demonstrations from visiting professional artists as well as meeting regularly to paint and enjoy each other’s company. Members are given several opportunities to exhibit their paintings during the year culminating with the annual exhibition.

This year’s event will be opened at a reception by the Mayor of Surrey Heath on Thursday, 12th September who will present prizes to winning artists (entry by invitation only). Invitations are available from a member of the committee at Contacts (fcsaonline.org.uk) or from the office at High Cross Church. The reception will include a glass of Pimm’s and the chance to view the paintings displayed in several rooms at the exhibition.

There are several prizes to be won under different categories. The prize for the best watercolour/mixed media painting is called the Winsland Prize which has been generously donated by Leonie McGuigan for many years. The best oil/acrylic painting will be awarded the Graham Scandrett Memorial Prize in memory of the past President of the Society. The Valerie Brooks Pastel Trophy is awarded for the best pastel painting in the exhibition. There is also the ever-popular themed competition which this year is entitled Action. Last year the subject was Old & New and the winning painting was Lesley Kilner’s St Paul’s from New Change Street.

Everyone who visits the exhibition is invited to vote for their favourite painting. At the end of the exhibition all the votes are counted and the winning artist will receive The Seward Memorial Trophy which has also come to be known as The People’s Prize. This is presented at the AGM in February by the President and well-known local professional artist Liz Seward. Lesley Kilner’s painting won this trophy too.

For more information about future events and if you are interested in membership please see the website fcsaonline.org.uk


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Join Bargain Hunt’s Thomas Forrester

Karen Neville

Bargain Hunt’s Thomas Forrester is sharing tales from the auction room and more in a fundraiser for Corn Exchange Newbury’s Old Library Campaign

Who doesn’t love a bargain and who doesn’t love TV show Bargain Hunt?

Well-known auctioneer and BBC Bargain Hunter Thomas Forrester is hosting a terrific fundraising auction for Corn Exchange Newbury’s Old Library campaign on Wednesday, 11th September.

The antique expert will talk about his work as an auctioneer and his time on TV with Bargain Hunt and Antiques Road Trip, highlighting heart-warming tales of his foray into antiques and how he landed a sport on the beloved British show.

As well as his time on Bargain Hunt, Forrester’s long list of accolades also includes also includes being Director of Special Auction Services in Newbury. Guests can expect Forrester to lend his valuable insight into the antiques market, sharing a look into what is currently selling and what is struggling. He will also delve into personal stories from his time working in antiques, including fascinating and one-of-a-kind items he has sold, as well as things he couldn’t shift!

Guests can also get actively involved in the evening, with the chance to bring along a small antique or collectable. Audience members who have brought items will be drawn at random to go on stage and tell the audience what their item is and why they bought it, before Forrester provides a live valuation.

All proceeds will be going towards the reopening of the historic Old Library in Newbury which will be a permanent home for the Corn Exchange’s creative participation work. This much-loved building will provide opportunities for all to take part in creative activities, benefitting more and more local people with the positive impact that engagement in the arts has.

£2.6 million is needed to fulfil the Corn Exchange’s plans to open the Old Library in early 2025; £1 million of which has been funded by Greenham Trust, for the acquisition of the building, repairs, and conservation. The public phase of the fundraising campaign will repurpose the interior space, and complete plans.

Jessica Jhundoo-Evans, Director of Corn Exchange Newbury & 101 Outdoor Arts, said: “We’re really excited about the Old Library becoming the permanent home for our creative participation work. This area of our work provides a lifeline to many local people, with over 27,000 engagements in 2022/23. The Old Library will help us to benefit many more local people with the positive impact that participation with the arts has, increasing engagements to over 40,000 a year.”

For tickets to this or any of the other fundraising events visit Events at the Corn Exchange Newbury

For campaign updates and to donate, please visit Old Library Fundraising Campaign


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Sole mates on Pangbourne High Street!

Karen Neville

Pangbourne High Street is becoming even more of a must-visit destination for locals & visitors. We’re celebrating this boom, including two new boutiques for style-lovers…

Already home to beloved establishments such as Cheese Etc, Kiki & Bow Interiors, The Rhubarb Tree, Nino’s Deli and Artichoke Café, the high street is now welcoming two exciting new boutiques to enhance its charm and appeal.

In April, Amy Grace, who has a background in footwear buying and design at renowned high street brands, launched Grace. This chic boutique offers a distinctive shopping experience, featuring her own footwear brands, Grace, and Feather & Sole. Additionally, the store showcases a thoughtfully curated selection of accessories sourced from Europe and the UK, making it a go-to spot for fashion enthusiasts seeking unique and stylish pieces.

“I’ve lived here for seven years, originally as it was on the commuter line into London and I wanted the village vibe with easy access to the city,” Amy tells us. “I’ve stayed because I love this quaint little spot. We get quite a few people coming here to picnic by the river in the summer and it seems to be a meeting point for surrounding villages due to the cafes, shops and strolls by the river.”

“I’ve stayed because I love this quaint little spot”

Adding to the vibrant mix, bespoke jeweller Nicola Bannister opened her atelier in July. Known for her exquisite craftsmanship, Nicola offers one-of-a-kind, handcrafted jewellery that caters to those with a discerning eye for quality and elegance. Her atelier has already been attracting jewellery-lovers and provides a personalised shopping experience that’s both memorable and luxurious alongside a repairs and remodelling service. Nicola also offers workshops such as wedding-ring making for couples making their vows.

While Pangbourne has always been great for the foodie spots and Kiki & Bow interiors is a great asset, having more shops open has given people more reason to visit. Pangbourne High Street is nor just a shopping destination but a thriving hub of unique retail and culinary experiences, perfect for an afternoon mooch.


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Prevent car theft

Karen Neville

Is your vehicle attracting thieves? Don’t let car thieves get an easy ride.

Keyless car theft or ‘relay theft’ is when a device is used to fool the car into thinking the key is close by. This unlocks the car and starts the ignition.

Thieves only need to be within a few metres of your car key to capture the signal, even if it’s inside your home. This means that even if your car and home are secure, thieves can still unlock, start and steal your car.

How to protect your keyless entry car

• Fit a steering wheel lock as a physical deterrent. Some models can link to pedals and gear sticks.
• Consider blocking in your keyless car with another non-keyless entry car if you have one.
• When at home keep your car key (and spares) well away from the car.
• Put the keys in a screened or signal-blocking pouch, such as a Faraday Bag.
• Re-programme your keys if you buy a second-hand car.
• Turn off wireless signals on your fob when it’s not being used.

You can also find the information on Thames Valley Police website at Prevent theft from a vehicle | Crime Prevention.

If you have seen anything suspicious, have CCTV or Dashcam footage of suspects, or any information regarding car crime in your neighbourhood, please report this by using the Thames Valley Police online reporting portal at https://www.thamesvalley.police.uk/ or by calling the non-emergency number 101. If a crime is in progress, dial 999.

If you wish to remain anonymous or don’t want to speak to the police you can pass any relevant information via the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 free of charge.


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Fun & fundraising

Karen Neville

You’re all set for a great night out at Caversham Rock ‘n’ Ale Festival

Rock and ale – the perfect combination and the perfect way to enjoy a Saturday!

Now in its 13th year the annual Caversham Rock ‘n’ Ale Festival features three outstanding local bands, two bars, both provided by Caversham’s top hostelry, The Last Crumb, food including a hog roast and vegetarian food options as well as children’s entertainment at Our Lady & St Anne’s School Playing Fields, Washington Road/ Southview Avenue, Caversham RG4 5AA.

The event raises money for the Motor Neurone Disease Association and since its inception has raised well into five figures for the association.

It is a family and community event and people of all ages are welcome along to join in the fun and fundraising on Saturday, 7th September from 6.30pm.

This year’s line-up features Code Red who will be opening the evening with a set of indie, pop and rock songs to get everyone going. The Skavengers are back by popular demand with boss sounds and ruder than rude ska classics and originals skanks and Dino’s bring you all the banging 80’s classic rock covers you know and love to rock along to.

Tickets adult – £15 + £1.50 booking fee = £16.50, child (under 16) – £5 + £0.50 booking fee = £5.50. Under-5s go free (but still need a ticket),


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Sinodun Players stage Broadway show

Karen Neville

The Sinodun Players are staging the off-Broadway contemporary show The Last Five Years in the intimacy of The Corn Exchange’s Studio Theatre

The Last Five Years is an emotionally powerful and intimate musical, which has captivated audiences and critics alike earning cult status.

Cathy, a struggling actress, and Jamie, a budding novelist on the brink of wild success, are 20-something in New York who meet, fall in love, marry, and divorce over the span of five years. Cathy tells the story from the end of their marriage; Jamie begins from when they first meet.

As the musical unfolds, Jamie shares his story from the spark of their relationship’s giddy beginning, whilst Cathy’s side is told in reverse, from the end of their turbulent partnership. The two characters cross paths just once, as their stories collide in the middle of the show.

It has been performed in many productions around the world and a film adaptation was released in 2015.

This production stars Freya Jacklin-Edward (BBC Singers, session singer for major films plus principal opera roles) and Poppy Jackson (actor and musical theatre singer) as Cathy with Andy Rainsford (Oxford Operatic singer & actor) and Jake Willett (trained at Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts and actor/singer for over 20 years) as Jamie supported by a four-piece orchestra.

Performances Tuesday 10th to Saturday, 14th September. Tickets £15, book at cornexchange.org.uk


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M is for murder & mystery

Karen Neville

‘Queen of Crime’ Agatha Christie lived in Wallingford for 42 years and wrote most of her novels here while living quietly by The Thames. Each September, Wallingford celebrates her with a variety of events

From exhibitions and talks, to ‘who dunnits’ and art workshops, there’s something for everyone to enjoy from September 6th to 8th honouring the best-selling author.

Throughout the weekend the view the special exhibition: “At Home with the Queen of Crime’ which takes you behind the scenes of Agatha’s home life while Ordeal by Innocence features paintings by artist Laura Hope at Wallingford Museum. (Entry by Museum ticket £6). Details Wallingford Museum.

Explore Wallingford in Rhythm and Rhyme with the Queen of Crime – pick up a leaflet from the Town Information Centre, and find the clues on 10 information boards around the town to solve the crossword.

Join a guided walk with a touch of Midsomer Murders and visit Christie’s grave at St Mary’s Church, Cholsey.

Pit your wits at a ‘Murder Mystery’ themed quiz on Friday when you can also listen to an illustrated talk on The Mysteries of Miss Maple. Book in advance at » The Mysteries of Miss Marple.

Join local artist Emma Souter on Saturday for a morning of creativity sketching the statue of Agatha Christie ‘en plein air’ at Kinecroft and why not stay for the Big Picnic with Agath afterwards?

Students from Wallingford School will perform two short murder mystery plays ‘Afternoon at the Seaside’ and ‘The Patient’ on Saturday afternoon.

At A is for Arsenic – the poisons of Agatha Christie, learn about the chemicals Agatha Christie used to kill off her characters and help solve a murder on a day out or evening on the Bunkline working out “who dunnit” in a murder mystery. In the evening experience Murder on the Wallingford Express complete with meal on the train. Watch as the story unfolds, listen out for clues, get those grey cells working, question the cast if you wish to try and piece together the puzzle.

Maritime Murder: A Vintage Voyage Riverboat Experience will feature professional actors bringing to life the gripping tale inspired by the queen of mystery, Agatha Christie. Enjoy treats prepared by the renowned Soph’s Loafs and a pay as you go bar, will be available on board.

The Shellfish Cow will be offering a special murder themed cocktail, Mollies will be holding a Murder Mystery evening on Saturday 7th with a fabulous interactive acting troupe as entertainment and The Keep will be serving up Agatha Christie inspired cocktails.

There are talks and art to get involved in, a special event for children and even an Agatha-inspired run and the chance to enjoy Gosford Park at the Corn Exchange too.

For details on all the events and how to book visit Agatha Christie’s Mystery Weekend


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Surrey Hills Wood Fair

Karen Neville

Discover traditional woodcrafts, be inspired by master craftspeople and enjoy an immersive day out in the woods at Surrey Hills Wood Fair 2024 in Cranleigh this month

The much-anticipated 14th annual Surrey Hills Wood Fair promises to be the biggest and best celebration yet where you can discover traditional woodcrafts and new attractions.

Renowned for its unique blend of nature, activities, culture, and community, it is gearing up to offer an unforgettable experience for families and nature enthusiasts alike on September 7th and 8th.

Marvel at the traditional craftsmanship in the new woodworkers’ village with a group of highly skilled wood workers from the Surrey Sussex coppice workers. Step back in time with the authentic medieval village enactment, and be captivated by thrilling displays and demonstrations in the new action-packed arena including jaw dropping displays from The Adams Axemen.

The fair at Fish Pond Copse, Bookhurst Road, Cranleigh, is the perfect opportunity for families to reconnect with nature and each other. With 90+ stalls featuring local wood, artisans, crafts, delicious food and drink, and a host of free activities, there is something for everyone.

Children can enjoy hands-on experiences such as willow weaving, driving a digger, axe throwing, tree climbing, and exploring the forest school’s mud kitchen. Parents can relax and take in the lively music and entertainment throughout the day or have a go at rock climbing, mountain biking or more relaxing mindfulness walks in the woods.

This event is not just about fun; it’s a celebration of the rich heritage and natural beauty of the Surrey Hills. Support local artisans and learn about traditional woodcraft techniques, sustainable forestry, and the importance of environment conservation. Witness the majestic Shire horses in action pulling carts and logs and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the event.

Enjoy live music and entertainment from local musicians and savour a delicious selection of Surrey Hills’ food and drink, including sustainably made beer, local rum or gin, freshly ground coffee, tempting ice cream, and handmade chocolate or fudge. Culinary delights range from African stews to Scandinavian dishes and freshly made pizza.

Tickets are excellent value, with advance tickets priced at £12.50 and £15 on the day. Best of all, children under 16 can attend for free, making it an affordable and memorable family outing. Free parking is available on-site, and friendly dogs on leads are welcome.

For more information and to purchase tickets for the celebration of nature, community and craftsmanship, visit Surrey Hills Wood Fair 2024 – Surrey Hills National Landscape


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Join charity Plantathon for Squire’s

Karen Neville

Support garden centres’ charity of the year programme and get involved in fundraising for local causes

Squire’s Garden Centres is inviting customers to come along to its centres on Friday, 6th September to join its charity Plantathon and help support Squire’s year of fundraising for its local charity organisations, marking the start of its Charity of the Year programme.

Taking place from 10am-3pm, at 15 of Squire’s garden centres**, the Squire’s teams at each centre – as well as charity volunteer helpers – are looking forward to welcoming customers for a fun and rewarding day planting up containers. The completed pots will be available for customers to purchase on the day, between 10am-3pm, with profits from the sale of each container going to each centre’s Charity of the Year (see list below).

Customers are encouraged to come along and support – to chat, ask questions – and are very welcome to pitch-in and plant-up pots too, in aid of some brilliant community causes close to each centre.

Each container will include a selection of autumn bedding plants, a centre piece feature plant, plus some daffodil bulbs to bring added cheer in spring (early September is the perfect time to plant spring flowering bulbs), all planted in peat free compost. The planted containers will be available to purchase for £12 each, representing fantastic value for money, while also helping local charities.

Sarah Squire, Chairman of Squire’s Garden Centres, comments: “We are looking forward to hosting our Plantathon initiative once again this year! It’s a wonderful way to welcome the autumn planting season, while marking the start of our work with our local charity partners for the next 12 months.

“We would be delighted to welcome visitors to our centres to get involved and help plant their own pot up – or just pop along and show their support for our colleagues and charity, which is local to the centre and often close to the hearts of many colleagues. Each centre works with their chosen charity to support their activities in the local community, as well as raising awareness and much needed funds at special evens throughout the year.

Charity of the Year – 2024/25

Charities chosen for the coming year are:

Badshot Leaspace2grow  Farnham’s community wellbeing garden, connecting local people in nature. space2grow.space
ChertseyLittle Roo Neonatal Fund  The Little Roo Neonatal Fund raises money to provide support for St. Peter’s Neonatal Unit, enabling it to continue providing the highest standards of intensive care for babies. ashfordstpeters.nhs.uk/littleroo
CobhamCobham Area Foodbank  A project founded by local churches and community groups, working together towards stopping hunger in the local area.  cobhamarea.foodbank.org.uk
CrawleyAge UK Crawley Branch  Offering services for older people, their families and their carers ageuk.org.uk/westsussexbrightonhove/activities-and-events/crawley/
FrenshamThe Green Hub Project for TeensThe Green Hub Project for Teens is a local community project serving Surrey and Hampshire and surrounding areas, supporting teenagers facing social, emotional and mental health challenges. greenhub.org.uk/
HershamHome-Start ElmbridgeWorking alongside families to give compassionate and confidential support for parents and their children. homestartelmbridge.org.uk
Long DittonWalton CharityA local charitable foundation, working with the community and local partners, aiming to build an Elmbridge community free from poverty and that thrives waltoncharity.org.uk
MilfordThe Fountain CentreA small independent cancer charity within St Luke’s Cancer Centre at the Royal Surrey Hospital, providing holistic and emotional support and information to as many patients as possible. fountaincentre.org/
ReigateSASH Charity (East Surrey Hospital)The charity for East Surrey Hospital and services provided by Surrey and Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust. Raising funds for to create great experiences for patients and staff. sashcharity.org/
SheppertonSpelthorne Dementia SupportA small group of local volunteers who make a positive difference to the quality of life of people living with dementia, their carers and families. spelthorne-dementia-support.org.uk/
StanmoreSt Luke’s HospiceSt Luke’s is a charity providing specialist end of life and palliative care to people in Harrow and Brent, enabling them to achieve the best possible quality of life. stlukes-hospice.org/
TwickenhamHomeLinkA local charity dedicated to the wellbeing of older people and their unpaid carers. homelinkdaycare.co.uk/
WashingtonRockinghorse Children’s CharityThe official fundraising arm of the Royal Alexandra Children’s Hospital, Brighton. Raising money for life-saving equipment, projects and services for sick babies, children and young people. rockinghorse.org.uk/
West HorsleyOakleaf EnterpriseOakleaf is based in Guildford offering a range of services to its clients to empower them to gain the skills, training and confidence needed to manage their mental health and return to work. oakleaf-enterprise.org
WokingWoking & Sam Beare HospiceA charity that cares for thousands of patients and their carers and families each year, specialising in holistic care for patients with life-limiting and terminal illness. wsbh.org.uk/
WokinghamCLASPSupporting people with learning disabilities in the Wokingham Borough and run by its members.  CLASP employs people with learning disabilities and offers voluntary opportunities. claspwokingham.org/

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Henry Moore exhibition at the Lightbox

Karen Neville

Big names and innovative artists are at the heart of The Lightbox’s latest exhibitions

Visitors to The Lightbox can enjoy two special exhibitions into autumn giving greater opportunities to “experience the best contemporary and modern art”.

Material Thinking, until October 13th, brings together for the first-time selected work by major artists from The Ingram Collection with work by contemporary artists associated with the Fine Art programme at the University of Gloucestershire (UoG), recognised as one of the country’s most innovative art schools.

Focusing on artists who use varied, unusual or unexpected ways of making, the exhibition will explore The Ingram Collection – one of the most significantly publicly accessible collections of modern British art in the UK – as a historic context for artists working today, prompting conversations about what it is to make things, between disciplines and across generations.

Curated by Professor Angus Pryor (UoG), selections from The Ingram Collection have been chosen in response to painters, sculptors and film makers working on the UoG Fine Art programme. He said: “Material Thinking will highlight how artists across generations incorporate observation, action, reaction, accident, impulse and instinct into their artistic practice, moving step-by-step to their final artwork.”

Henry Moore in Colour is organised in partnership with The Henry Moore Foundation and runs until November 3rd offering a rare opportunity to see colourful drawings by Moore spanning the artist’s career.

Best-known as one of the most influential and innovative sculptors of the modern era, Moore (1898-1986) was also a remarkably talented and prolific draughtsman, producing nearly 7,500 drawings over seven decades. These works from The Henry Moore Foundation include examples of his best-known works such as the large ‘presentation’ works from the 1930s and the Shelter drawings – commissioned by War Artists’ Advisory Committee during WW2, the Shelter drawings were influential in achieving widespread popular recognition for the artist following their display at London’s National Gallery.

Sebastiano Barassi, Head of Henry Moore Collections & Programmes said: “Henry Moore in Colour reveals his profound love and appreciation of the unique characteristics and possibilities of drawing, for its own ends and as a tool to inform his work in other media. Moore continued to draw until the end of his life. This exhibition attempts to reveal the numerous ways in which it enabled him to study, express, and experiment.”

Sarah Brown, Director of The Lightbox, added: “Our collaboration with The Ingram Collection and The Henry Moore Foundation is at the heart of both exhibitions and we are grateful to all our partners for making our season so exciting.”

A programme of events accompanies and the exhibitions, including the Material Thinking Symposium on September 13th.

For further information about both exhibitions visit The Lightbox


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