Let’s Go Andy, Let’s Go

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Robbie James turns his attention to British hero Andy Murray as he embarks on what will be his last Wimbledon

I’m going to miss Andy Murray the event organiser more than Andy Murray the tennis player, and we can learn so much from the relationship we’ve formed with him over the years.

Summers of sport have an undeniable ability to unify often divided British population, even if just for 90 minutes at a time. Non sports fans become sports fans. Parks become fan zones. Andrew Castle the political commentator becomes Andrew Castle the tennis commentator. Tournament schedules create the occasion, but the personnel involved turn those occasions into real life history. Yes I’m cringing too, but am I wrong?

As we’re learning with the England men’s football team, we channel our emotion and desire in contrasting ways, depending on the sport

When a 25-year-old Andy Murray lost the first Wimbledon final of his career in 2012 to Roger Federer, and proceeded to tear up during his post-match interview with Sue Barker, we weren’t calling for his coach, Ivan Lendl to get sacked. We weren’t telling Twitter how underwhelmed and fed up we were. We just wanted to give the bloke a hug.

We’ve been able to form a deeper bond with Andy than we’ve managed with any team, and that’s largely thanks to the frequency of Wimbledon (compared to the Olympics), and our old friend terrestrial television.

Does he feel like extended family? I think to a lot of people he probably does. His emotion is loud, and it’s there on court for us all to see, so naturally he feels accessible. No doubt it helps that we’ve seen mother Judy, wife Kim, and brother Jamie on our screens almost as much as we’ve seen Andy during his time on Centre Court. I’m going to really miss seeing Judy Murray looking absolutely furious with her wee son.

We feel sincere empathy for his placement within the Dunblane massacre, and then inevitable lifelong trauma he must so often need to fight. We will for him to succeed. Even in these (seemingly) last few months of his career, we’re not willing for him to necessarily even win, we just want one more moment where we can chant “let’s go Andy, let’s go”. We want to hear him scream “nooooo Andyyyyy for f**k sake” and look up to his coaching box like they’ve somehow hacked his body’s computer and decided to smash a forehand into the net just for a laugh. We just want one more theatre performance.

He’s won over the personality police. How it took so many people so long to understand that he’s just a shy man is beyond me, but I’m very pleased that he’s now got the backing of so many of his critics. I think we’ve been very lucky to have had access to such an authentic personality. Alongside his beautifully dry sense of humour, the Scotsman’s managed to use his platform for good, without becoming a propaganda machine. We’ll hear or see him subtly stand up for what he believes in, like the times he’s called out casual sexism in various news conferences. No malice, and no hint of making it about him, something many celebrities are unable to achieve.

Murray’s first Wimbledon title in 2013 will live with me for a long time. The game of cricket I was playing on that Sunday afternoon became completely irrelevant as me and my best mate Will sat around the FM radio. (Tennis wins the award for ‘Best Ambient Sound’ at Robbie’s Silly Sports Awards by the way. Chit-chat. Silence. Applause. Repeat for up to six hours. Glorious).

The winning moment was a split-second moment, just like a goal, a wicket, a nine darter; but this wasn’t a moment of euphoria that made you want to take your top off and throw your warm beer in the air. It was just a moment that made you want to smile. You didn’t want to jump around because you wanted to catch Andy’s reaction, Judy’s reaction, Centre Court’s reaction. You wanted to hear the upcoming interview. You just wanted to smile and absorb the screen, or in my case, the sounds of the radio.

I hope we can all learn to champion more of our wonderful athletes and teams in the way we’ve got behind Andy for the last 15 years. We owe that man so much for the joyous moments he’s given us. Not bad for a man who doesn’t smile.

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Arts for all in Alton

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Alton is gearing up for the first Alton Arts Festival, July 5th to 14th, a celebration of the arts, community and creativity

Excitement is building for the first Alton Arts Festival – a 10-day, multi-arts, multi-venue festival the likes of which Alton has never seen before!

There are still some hot tickets to get your hands on across the ambitious programme.

World-famous names like Cara Dillion, Simon Armitage, Laura Bates and Richard Herring, and the best local talent Alton has to offer; with world-premières and festival exclusives, compelling conversation and incredible intimate settings; hands-on workshops, kids’ comedy, free concerts, parties in the park and of course, a sprinkling of Jane Austen – all celebrating and showcasing the heritage, talent and creative spirit of this corner of East Hampshire.

Annie Lancaster, Alton Arts Festival Co-creator and Chair, said: “When we first considered putting on arts festival, I really had no idea if we could pull it off. We set ourselves some pretty high goals and wanted to be ambitious for the town. I needn’t have worried – the brilliant team of dedicated, inspiring volunteers who make up the committee have put together an exciting, diverse and honestly world-class line up.

“There are some highlights in the mix. I’m particularly looking forward to the family-friendly, interactive show with Testament, a world-record holding beatboxer, MC and poet, Holybourne Theatre on 10th July, and Austen & Friends, featuring the world première of some of Jane Austen’s lesser-known poems set to music. And the literary programme is just fantastic. I can’t wait to see Bridget Collins, a #1 bestselling author whose new book, The Silence Factory, has just been released to critical acclaim, taking part in our speculative fiction games night: “Worldbuilding… Live!”

“It has always been my hope that the festival will have benefits beyond the 10 days it runs – to audiences, to creatives, to local businesses, and to the whole community. That’s why we’ve worked so hard to put together a programme that really does have something for everyone, including our schools programme which offers arts experiences and workshops to almost 3,000 local children, free of charge. Now the festival is just around the corner, we can’t wait for all these plans to come to life!”

Among the highlights are a free community choral festival at St Lawrence Church on 7th, Arts in the Park which opens the weekend with a celebration of local community groups on 6th, culminating in Party in the Park winding up the festival with one big party with live music, dancing, local food and drink on 14th.

Full information and individual event booking information can be found at Alton Arts Festival

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Summer daze

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Holidays are on the horizon so let’s get out and have a good time whatever the weather. There’s fun for all ages to enjoy!

July heralds the start of the school summer hols, weeks of long lazy days lie ahead but there’s plenty to do from trails to follow, games to play, open air entertainment, delve into history, make a splash or go for full on adventure!

It may be the school holidays but how about going to Knight School at Oxford Castle? Learn archery, sword skills and jousting in the Castleyard from July 27th to August 30th. Experience the thrill of being a medieval falconer with birds of prey on August 31st and for more leisurely entertainment, take your seat for open air Shakespeare with Twelfth Night from July 1st to 27th and Hamlet, July 29th to August 10th. To book & for more visit Events – Oxford Castle & Prison (oxfordcastleandprison.co.uk).

Enjoy theatrical family fun this summer at the Oxford Playhouse with Zog and the Flying Doctors based on the book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, July 17th to 21st. Meet The Tiger Who Came to Tea on August 14th to 18th and Stuff and Nonsense Theatre Company bring Pinocchio on August 31st. Book these shows and more at Oxford Playhouse.

Foodies alert – South Parks is the place to be for Oxford Foodies Festival 2024 for a celebration of top chefs, tasty food, delicious drinks and live music with Blue, Sister Sledge and Symphonic Ibiza on the menu August 24th to 26th. Tickets at Oxford – Foodies Festival

There’s orienteering family fun during the summer holidays from July 24th to September 1st at Waterperry Gardens. Enjoy exploring the ornamental gardens, using directions and clues to follow the sculpture trail. Details at Summer Garden Trail – Waterperry Gardens

Blenheim Palace Adventure Play is a hidden world of adventure, where mini explorers of all ages can create exciting stories as they clamber, climb, paddle, slide, splash and zip through the exciting zones. Imaginations can run wild as children explore the network of tunnels, bridges, cargo nets and hidden chambers. Book at Blenheim Palace Adventure Play

The annual Millets Maize Maze event will be back from July 20th to September 3rd with games to play within three maize mazes, three woodlands and a fort maze as well as go-karts, family games and lots more to explore! Step into the tepee, July 29th-31st, where children can lovingly create a teddy bear before enjoying a picnic and story with their new cuddly buddy. Folksy Theatre present open air Shakespeare on August 7th with As You Like It and for younger audiences meet Angelina Sprockett whose overcoat has pockets galore, August 7th & 8th in this Quentin Blake classic.

There are brick adventures to enjoy at Didcot Railway Centre as they celebrate the world’s most popular building brick on July 13th and 14th. Enjoy displays and interactive activities including tower building and speed builds. Take the anagram trail and find all the characters to receive a reward. That mischievous marmalade sandwich eating bear Paddington is dropping in on August 26th. Don’t miss the chance to meet him, book at Paddington™ at Didcot

Explore a revelatory new exhibition, Mountains and plains and adventure: William & May Morris and Iceland, at Kelmscot Manor throughout the summer. Visitors to Kelmscot Manor can experience the spirit of Iceland when they encounter the topiary Fafnir yew hedge, originally cut by William Morris. Morris was one of the Victorian era’s great polymaths – writer, designer, conservationist and social thinker, antiquary and scholar of Icelandic.

Grab your friends and enjoy a day at The Game Fair at Blenheim Palace! Enjoy a fun family day out packed with entertainment for everyone. From gundog displays, shooting lines, fishing demonstrations and so much more, this festival of the countryside will not disappoint. If you’re after some new kit, the latest country fashion or your tastebuds are craving some wild food, you’re in luck at The Game Fair. We’ve teamed up with The Game Fair to offer you a pair of tickets to the event on Sunday, 28th July. Enter at roundandabout.co.uk by Sunday, 21st July. Can’t wait to see if you’ve won? Book your tickets now and save – The Game Fair 2024

The Nut Tree Inn in Murcott is a mid-15th century thatched building and while it may look like the quintessential English pub, it is so much more. The gastropub has been the proud and rightful owner of a Michelin Star since 2009 and has three AA rosettes to its name too. Elegant dishes full of flavour and high quality ingredients are offered in their seven course tasting menu, pub classics and in the new Sunday lunch menu. Sample menu online at The Nut Tree Inn Michelin Pub, Murcott, Oxfordshire.

The Blenheim Palace Boathouse is the paddlesports base for LifeFree Adventures where you can explore the Great Lake by rowing boat, kayak or paddleboard. Ideal for all the family and Harry Potter fans alike, glide across the lake with stunning vistas of The Palace, The Grande Bridge and the Harry Potter Tree, on traditional rowing boats or high quality paddle craft. Book at LiveFree Adventures – Blenheim Palace, Watersports for an unforgettable paddling experience.

Abingdon’s Oppidum: trade and crafts in an Iron Age Settlement is the subject of the exhibition at Abingdon Museum from July 6th to September 29th. ‘Oppidum’ a Latin word for ‘town’ was used for those which seem to have been involved in manufacturing goods and in trade, and may also have been centres of power. This exhibition looks at Iron Age life in the Abingdon oppidum, the crafts its people practised, the trade connections and the relationship with the landscape and other settlements in the area.

Discover the Cotswolds from the charm of a holiday cottage from Cotswolds Hideaways. Whether you’re looking for a cosy holiday cottage for two, a dog friendly house, luxury barefoot retreats or a family friendly holiday cottage in the heart of a historic village, you can find just what you’re after to suit all group sizes and budgets. Explore and book at Cotswolds Hideaways: Over 130 Idyllic Holiday Cottages in The Cotswolds

Discover a summer jam-packed with fun at Basildon Park and Greys Court, Henley, from 25th July to 3rd September. Greys Court is also offering the opportunity to have a go at painting, whether you’re a seasoned artist or complete beginner, bring out your artistic side. Various dates in July and September. Booking essential, visit National Trust and search for the property. Basildon Park is exploring the connection between the estate and the Second World War when it was requestioned and used by the 101st Airborne Division of the American Army for D-Day training. This display running until August 31st in the 1950s kitchen, explores these links.

Marvellous, the family-friendly tribute festival, takes place over the weekend of July 19th-21st at Dinton Pastures Country Park, providing a variety of entertainment for all ages with no less than 14 world class tribute acts featured on the main stage! A range of food and drink stalls ensure you won’t go hungry or thirsty and there’s camping and glamping available too so you can really let your hair down and enjoy yourself. Marvellous (marvellousfestivals.com)

There’s summer fun galore at Wellington Country Park from July 29th to September 1st with so much to do you’re really spoilt for choice including Animal Farm Week, August 5th to 9th, Tic Tac Skate School, 12th to 16th, Craft Week, 19th to 23rd, testing your footie skills with Reading FC Community Trust, 17th & 18th, Inflatable Weekend, 24th to 26th and much more. Full details & booking at Summer Fun | Wellington Country Park

Adventure Play is a unique, hand-crafted adventure playground at Windsor Great Park. Hidden within the woodland next to The Savill Garden, you’ll discover a fascinating world of walkways, slides, sculptures and treehouses. Climb along the trees or explore the amazing giant acorns, as you get close to nature, challenging the body and stimulating the senses. Tickets must be booked in advance at Adventure Play – Windsor Great Park

Discover the mysterious world of Tumblestone Hollow at Stonor Park this summer holiday and explore the woodland. The beautiful, magical place to play together with high level walkways, climbing nets, look-out decks and bridges across multiple levels, connected by a gnarled central tower. Inside, a double spiral of steps takes adventures from ground level to a look-out deck. Book at Adventure Play in Oxfordshire at Tumblestone Hollow | Stonor Park

For all round family entertainment and attractions galore, Swallowfield Show on the August bank holiday weekend, 25th & 26th, takes some beating. Main arena acts include the double wheel of death, Paws for Thought dog display team, falconry displays, classic cars and motorbikes while in the activity zone you’ll find go karts, circus skills workshop, sled dogs, crazy golf and a fun fair. There are dozens of classes to enter in both the dog and horse shows and don’t forget the horticulture, craft and food stalls. Details at The Swallowfield Show

Grab your picnic gear and head to the glorious grounds of South Hill Park this summer for relaxed, outdoor theatre fun. There is something for all ages this summer. Light-hearted operetta The Gondoliers is on Friday, 26th July, 7pm. There’s a charming new adaptation of much-loved The Tale of Jemima Puddle-Duck by Beatrix Potter on Friday, 2nd August, 2.30pm and family favourite The Railway Children stages on Friday, 16th August at 4.30pm. Book at South Hill Park.

‘A truly royal way to travel! For an exceptional day out, head into Windsor town centre and jump on the French Brothers Riverboat. Take in the picturesque River Thames, before enjoying an evening at Royal Windsor Racecourse. Book via Royal Windsor Racecourse (windsor-racecourse.co.uk) for admission, return riverboat, and two drinks, all from £49.50.

Discover Wokingham Cricket Club in Sindlesham this summer, perfect for families. A thriving junior and senior section means there is coaching and matches for all ages, great cricket to watch throughout the week with a full bar and snacks. We are also available for hire for your special event. Visit Wokingham CC (play-cricket.com)

GolfPlex in Binfield is a great fun for the whole family. Tackle the three zones of Bear Mountain Adventure Golf – Polar, Jungle and Desert. Try Toptracer Range – smart enough for the serious golfer, fun enough for the whole family. Or unleash the Beckham in you on the FootGolf course. You don’t need any prior golf experience and we’ll even lend you all the equipment you need. Plus, new-in – Sports Simulator. Over 60 sports, 1,500 game challenges and 3,500 sporting venues. It’s immersive, fully interactive and very addictive! More & booking at The Family Golf Entertainment Centre in Bracknell – GolfPlex

Enjoy a night at the cinema in the open air in the historic surroundings of Reading Abbey Ruins, with the high fliers in Top Gun – Maverick on 31st August and boy wizard and chums in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban on 1st September. Visit What’s On Reading (whatsonreading.com) to book.

Take your picnic rug and fold up chairs to the Coppa Club at The Great House, Sonning for Wonka on July 11th and to The Swan at Streatley on July 5th for Pretty Woman. Booking at Coppa Club.

Newbury Summerfest is the BIG family day out on July 20th at Newbury Showground bringing together the best attractions, arena demonstrations, airshows, musical tributes and entertainment for an unforgettable family day out. Multiple zones and arenas offer families an array of activities to enjoy throughout the day and into the evening. Book at Big Family Day Out | Newbury Summerfest | Hermitage

Enjoy a leisurely trip along the Kennet & Avon canal this summer. The Newbury branch’s trip boat Jubilee runs trips from The Wharf throughout the boating season. Until September 7th they will be running a summer season of weekly evening trips (on either Thursday or Friday) which will incorporate “bubbly cruises”, gin tasting cruises (with award-winning Gee Gee Gins) and beer tasting cruises (with the Inn at Home). The Hungerford branch covers a particularly beautiful stretch of the canal, between Kintbury and Great Bedwyn where The Rose of Hungerford, a traditional widebeam boat, based at Hungerford Wharf, offers regular public trips and private charters along the canal. To book a trip visit Book A Trip – Kennet & Avon Canal Trust (katrust.org.uk)

Shaw House in Newbury has a variety of summer fun to treat yourself to with a summer fair on July 21st, a family activity day on 31st before open air theatre comes to the grounds in August. Join Immersion Theatre for A Midsummer Night’s Dream on 4th and Peter Pan on 12th. Full details and to book at West Berkshire Heritage, West Berkshire Museum & Shaw House

Animal Olympics is a Summer Trail at the Nature Discovery Centre in Thatcham. Join them at the centre to find out more about super speedy animals and high flying birds by taking part in the self-led trail. Complete the course, figure out the clues and make your own Animal Olympics inspired medal or trophy. Details at Nature Discovery Centre | Berks, Bucks & Oxon Wildlife Trust (bbowt.org.uk)

Step back in time at Retrofestival to the evocative music of yesteryear at Newbury Showground 9th-11th August. Capture the lost glamour of the 30s, with its art deco designs and elegant fashion, or the nostalgia of the 40s, with its wartime spirit and timeless melodies, and rock n roll to 50s tunes and dance the night away, then get down to some soulful rhythm and blues that will move your body and lift your spirit. Tickets at Home – Retrofestival

Journey through the ages to when steam ruled all and explore a hidden gem in Wiltshire’s history at Crofton Beam Engine’s steam weekends, July 27th & 28th and August 25th & 26th. Learn about the history of the station and its restoration. Speak with volunteers in and around the Engine House. Discover the engineering challenges and the people who overcame them to build the canal and make sure it had a plentiful supply of water.

From trails and guided tours to craft activities, Avebury has lots of ways for you to enjoy precious time together as a family. Take a stone circle tour on Wednesdays and Sundays, take your seat for fairytale theatre in Dovecote with playful performances of The Ugly Duckling, The Three Little Pigs and Goldilocks and the Three Bears on August 2nd, 9th & 16th. If you’re looking to let off some steam then try the obstacle course using the logs, planks and balance beams in the Old Farmyard and challenge others to have a go.

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Join the moo-vement on the OxTrail

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OxTrail is an exciting sculpture trail taking place across Oxfordshire this summer and as Beth Marsh, Director of Fundraising at Sobell House Hospice Charity tells us you’ll see some fabulous artwork, explore the county and help support an incredible cause

Summer has arrived, and with it 138 life-sized and mini ox sculptures are moo-ving themselves into position across Oxfordshire.

In case you haven’t already ‘herd’, this moo-vellous exhibition is called OxTrail and is taking place between 6th July and 29th August all to raise much-needed funds for Sobell House Hospice Charity. Each sculpture has been designed and decorated by artists, local schools, community groups, and local media – making the herd truly unique – and many have been sponsored by local companies and organisations.

Amongst the large oxen grazing in Oxford’s beautiful buildings and streets you will find ‘Dreams of the Spires’, situated outside Saïd Business School, designed by RAWZ. An established poet and musician from Greater Leys, RAWZ represents a less acknowledged side of Oxford with his intricate design reinterpreting Oxford’s iconic skyline, symbolising unique stories, influences and people of the city.

Within the Westgate, you’ll find four beautiful and unique oxen, including ‘Prehistoric Ox’ designed by Alison Berman. In Alison’s own words: “Sorting through photos of cave paintings I could clearly imagine what a shock there would be if an ox from the Ice Age suddenly appeared in a market in Oxford.” This ox has been decorated with an assortment of mammals including running bulls, a bear, an ibex and a mammoth.

In the University Parks further ox-citement awaits you, with oxen such as Antler Wildling’s Oxslips and Cowslips, a beautiful representation of these now rare species of Oxfordshire flora. And further afield at the Churchill Hospital, home of Sobell House Hospice, you’ll come across another nature inspired design, Oxford Blue by Catherine Rye. Catherine has used plants from her own garden to make stencils with a cyanotypic effect.

More large oxen can be found across the city at churches including the University Church of St Mary the Virgin, St Michael at the North Gate, St Margaret’s and St Giles’; at college and university locations including Green Templeton College, Blavatnik School of Government and Oxford Brookes University Headington Campus, and at other iconic locations such as Oxford Castle, Broad Street, Oxford City Football Club, and at Oxford University Hospital sites.

Across the county, from Carterton to Henley via Witney, Wantage, Abingdon, Didcot and Wallingford, and from Banbury to Thame via Bicester, Kidlington and Wheatley, you will find over 100 mini oxen at libraries, hotels, shops and farm centres. Most of these have been painted by schools and youth groups in the local towns and villages. Amongst these are ‘Ed’, located at the Sobell House Bicester Warehouse and painted by St Edburg’s Primary School, ‘Oxytocin’ by Ladygrove Park Primary School at the Cornerstone in Didcot, ‘Ferdinand’ by Summer Fields School at the Leonardo Royal Hotel, ‘Sunny’ by Sunrise Nursery at Millets Farm, ‘Space Ox’ by the Oxford Spires Academy at Templars Square, and ‘Joy’ by West Hendred Home Ed Group at the Wantage Library. There’s also other mini bovines on display on the trail including two stunning designs from artist and innovator Annie Sloan, creations from our own artistic community at the hospice and an eye-catching design courtesy of MINI.

You can ox-plore the trail and collect the sculptures using the official OxTrail 2024 app or through the beautifully-decorated OxTrail map, which is available at all Sobell House shops and some of the mini herd locations. What’s more, there is a range of ox-clusive merch and fun activities for children to get involved in available at the Westgate Hub Shop.

Once the trail is over, there will be one last chance to bid goodbye to the moo-gnificent herd at the Farewell Weekend, which takes place on 7th-8th September at the Westgate. Gather your friends and family together to help give the oxen the send-off they deserve! The life-sized sculptures (and some of the mini oxen) will then be sold to their forever homes at a hoof-biting Grand Auction on 13th September at Saïd Business School in Oxford and online.

All the proceeds raised through OxTrail will help to fund Sobell House Hospice, who provide expert care to people facing life-limiting illness and support to their loved ones. The hospice relies on the support of its community to raise over £3million each year.

Join the moo-vement to explore Oxfordshire’s iconic attractions, uncover some hidden gems, and have lots of fun along the way.

Visit Home – OxTrail 2024 and follow OxTrail 2024 (@oxtrail2024)

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Thames Fusion girls’ cricket team

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In a bid to enhance girls’ participation in cricket, three clubs in the Thames Valley have joined forces to establish a new girls’ cricket team, Thames Fusion. Ally Holloway shares the news

The collaboration with Wargrave, Sonning and Reading Cricket Clubs aims to provide girls of all ages with meaningful opportunities to engage in competitive hardball cricket, and so far the results have brought a wave of energy to girls’ cricket at all three clubs.

While each club will maintain its individual girls’ cricket teams, this joint effort has led to the formation of a new team called Thames Fusion, with an emphasis on playing hardball cricket.

Wargrave CC was a driving force behind the initiative. Chairman Andy Meader said: “Whilst we have offered girls cricket for many years, there have not always been sufficient numbers to play as many fixtures as we’d ideally like. We were aware that other clubs have been similarly challenged so we were delighted that Sonning CC and Reading CC saw the benefit in pooling resources. The launch of Thames Fusion is an exciting development, and the combination of players, coaches, and facilities from all three clubs promises an outstanding summer of cricket for the girls (and anyone interested in joining us)!”

Nalin Rupasinha of Reading CC added: “Thames Fusion is now able to offer girls at Reading CC the right level of competition and development. This collaborative effort is paving the way for a sustainable and thriving future for girls’ cricket in the region. Long may it continue!”

Throughout June and July, girls aged U11 to U15 will have the opportunity to participate in over 25 cricket games and festivals. This significant increase from previous seasons ensures girls gain valuable experience to further enhance their cricket skills and will have the chance to play just as much cricket as boys their age.

Tim Murphy, Chair of Sonning Cricket Club’s Junior section, said: “The club is delighted to be part of this partnership. The girls have thoroughly enjoyed playing at U11, U13, and U15 levels, with many expressing happiness in playing all-girls cricket due to our combined strength in depth. The positive feedback from the girls underscores the success of this initiative.”

Two Berkshire-based companies have generously offered their support by providing playing kit for the new team. Ally Holloway, the women and girls’ representative at Wargrave CC thanked Goodall-Smith Wealth Management and Wise Owls Childcare. “This sponsorship has enabled the purchase of branded kit for the girls without any additional cost to them. It was a key priority for us when setting this team up, that Thames Fusion was bonus without requiring players to make any further financial commitment beyond their club membership.”

For further information about Thames Fusion, please email [email protected]

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Come follow the band with Barnum

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Enjoy a spectacular show this summer when Barnum takes to the stage at The Watermill

Roll up! Roll up! The Watermill Theatre is inviting you to take your seat and be amazed by the acts, entertainment and stories of showman P T Barnum.

Enter the dazzling world where imagination and ambition know no bounds as the creator of spectacle comes to town with a sensational show featuring a whole host of characters.

Hand in hand with wife Charity, Barnum’s life and career twists and turns as he schemes and dreams his way to headier heights. The irresistible pull of an ever-bigger humbug comes at a cost, and the people paying are usually those on whom Barnum tramples on the way to the top.

Come follow the band with the glorious multi-award winning Cy Coleman’s music, Michael Stewart’s lyrics and Mark Bramble’ book in this new production directed by Jonathan O’Boyle, choreographed by Oti Mabuse who returns to the Watermill after her work on Kiss Me Kate in 2019, and featuring an ensemble cast of actor-musicians and circus performers.

Jonathan said: “I’m thrilled to be directing Barnum at the beautiful Watermill Theatre this summer and with this wonderful cast and creative team. Barnum is a magical show, full of thrills , music, dance and yes, circus performers. With a fresh new take on this classic story, we’re approaching the show through a modern lens and perspective, celebrating the rich diversity and heritage of the show’s characters. We can’t wait to transform the theatre and the grounds of the Watermill and immerse the audience in the world of P T Barnum!”

Following the sell-out smash hit The Lord of the Rings, this summer, come and be immersed in the magical world of the circus at The Watermill Theatre from July 2nd to September 8th.

Watermill Theatre’s joint CEOs Claire Murray and Paul Hart said: “We’re so excited to welcome this talented company of actors, musicians and acrobats and an extraordinary creative team to The Watermill for this new production of Barnum. We’ve been working closely with National Centre for Circus Arts to realise all the thrills and spectacle of the circus and it’s brilliant to have Oti Mabuse back with us to create breath-taking movement and dance. This summer is going to be something special for all the family!”

Fancy testing out your skills and seeing if you have what it takes to join the circus? Join an afternoon of fun, food and frivolity in the Watermill gardens on Sunday, 25th August, before watching the show. Tickets from £50 (£45 for under 16s) including a ticket to see Barnum.

Book at BARNUM (watermill.org.uk)

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Play at Marlborough Cricket Club

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Hugh Norris is a youth coach and committee team member at Marlborough Cricket Club where they’re looking for junior members and hoping to start a girls’ team

Marlborough Cricket Club is located on the edge of Savernake Forest, in the beautiful market town of Marlborough – hence our club nickname of ‘The Trees’. From our ground you can enjoy stunning views of the Wessex Downs.

We are dedicated to promoting cricket and providing a welcoming, and inclusive environment for all. Whether you have experience, or are completely new to the game, Marlborough Cricket Club is the perfect place to have fun, hone your skills, make lifelong friendships, and enjoy everything the game offers on and off the pitch.

Growing our junior section

Several of our current first team players started their cricket in our Junior section.

We are passionate about providing cricket opportunities for youngsters in the town and are actively seeking new Junior members.

We offer both soft ball and hard ball cricket and all coaches are ECB (England and Wales Cricket Board) qualified, DBS checked, and first aid trained.

Our focus on girls’ cricket – free taster sessions

The women’s game has thrived in recent years, both on and off the pitch and are keen to play our part in helping grow the girls’ game.

We’d love to hear from you if you would like to play, as we look to establish Marlborough CC’s first girls’ cricket team.

We are offering free taster sessions throughout the summer and have plans to add a girls’ team training night too, subject to levels of interest. No experience is necessary, and all equipment is provided, so do get in touch!

Our junior groups

‘All Stars’ (ages 5-8) and ‘Dynamos’ (8-11) takes place on Fridays at 6pm over 8 weeks.

Junior training for under 11’s, 13’s and 15’s takes place on Mondays from 6-7.30pm.

Off the pitch

We offer many opportunities to enjoy the social side of cricket too. We have our own pavilion, bar and barbecue and organise socials at the club and beyond through the summer and winter months.

We offer many opportunities to enjoy the social side of cricket too. We have our own pavilion, bar and barbecue and organise socials at the club and beyond through the summer and winter months.

We look forward to welcoming you. Just reach out to us using the contact details below.

Email: [email protected]
Location: Savernake Forest Ground Marlborough SN8 3HN
Find us at – What3words: banana.grinning.thread

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Fresh & fabulous farm shops

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Summer is the perfect season to sample the fare and flavours at your local farm shop, not only are you shopping local supporting homegrown growers but you’ll be helping the environment too

Farm shops are a feast for the senses from the fashion show of fruit and veg, succulent juicy meat, richly flavoured cheese and bread so fresh you can smell it as you walk through the door, what’s not to love!

Add in the high-quality fare is locally produced, often right on the doorstep, and you’re helping to protect the environment, boast personal service and by shopping there you are supporting local small businesses and everyone’s a winner.

Farm shops help produce a strong sense of community with many offering pick your own options, delis and cafes to enjoy on site and with produce available at local farmers’ markets shopping for healthy and nutritious food has never been easier.

Let Casey Fields Farm Shop off Dog Lane, Ashampstead RG8 8SJ take the worry out of supper for you with their growing range of ready to cook meals using ingredients from the farm shop and the farm’s finest meat. There are more than 50 award-winning local and British cheeses to feast on including local fave Village Maid Waterloo and pies from popular Reading maker Sweeney Todd are delivered daily, made using the same traditional methods for years. British and continental meats, fish and shellfish and fresh game all help to make this worthy of its local praise.

Nestling between Hungerford and Marlborough, you’ll find Cobbs Farm Shop & Kitchen, Bath Road RG17 0SP. The ‘ultimate food destination’, visit the farm shop for quality seasonal produce, butchery, deli, luxury ice cream, freshly baked bread, preserves, dairy goods, juices and biscuits and the cafe where the friendly team will look after you seven days a week. You can also pick up English sparkling wine from the nearby Alder Ridge Vineyard too. The children will be entertained in the bespoke wooden indoor play barn, Cobbs Play Barn. A series of converted cattle barns have been turned into a fabulous foodie destination at Englefield for Cobbs Farm Shop & Kitchen at Wickcroft Farm, Pangbourne Road, Theale RG7 5EA where you’ll find treats on a par with the Hungerford offering.

The award-winning butchery at Fernygrove Farm, Hawthorn Lane, Bracknell RG42 6HN will serve up everyday cuts, the joint for your Sunday roast and something special for when you want to treat yourself. Find fine English cheeses, locally baked breads, seasonal fruit and vegetables, as well as essential store cupboard items and sausage rolls, pate and pies in the farm shop once you’ve torn yourself away from the in-house made award-winning sausages, dry cured bacon and faggots. Their cooked breakfasts come highly recommended too!

Turophiles will love the array of cheese on the counters at Lockey Farm Shop, Sindlesham Road, Arborfield RG2 9JH with local award winners nestling among those from further afield, Barkham Blue or Stinking Bishop anyone? Cornish Pasties from Bodmin, olives and samosas also line the chillers. Indulge in lardy cake and other sweet treats and check out the wide range of beers, ciders and spirits from craft breweries near and far, who’s for Dr Squid Ink Gin?

The range of produce of offer at Hare Hatch Sheeplands would take more than one basket to carry so, deep breath, get ready to pick up fruit and veg, bakery, dairy, wines and spirits, craft ales, home baking, world foods, cold meat and fish, pies and pastries, free range eggs, honey, preserves and chutneys, sauces, snack and nibbles, confectionary, juice and flowers in London Road, Hare Hatch RG10 9HW.

A warm welcome awaits at the Wellington Farm Shop, Welsh Lane, Reading RG17 0LT, where shelves are overflowing with local food, kitchen and household essentials, gifts and grow your own herbs, fruits and veggies. Visit the award-winning butchery for your favourite cuts and ask them to prepare something for just you.

Shop in the shadow of Windsor Castle at the farm shop on the Windsor Estate, SL4 2RQ for traditionally reared local beef and pork and lamb from Bagshot Park. Handmade sausages are produced weekly and seasonal game is available too. At the deli counter choose from artisan cheeses and cooked meats and indulge in the selection of homemade pies, quiches, and sausage rolls, or treat yourself to a taste of the signature Bread Pudding. You need to be an early bird to enjoy the bread at The Jolly Baker as it always sells out before you can say “I’ll have…”.

‘What you see if Pig’ better known as WysiPig in Arborfield RG2 9JG is renowned for its pork products. While you’re buying your Sunday joint make sure you stop by the tearoom for one of the famous WysiPig breakfast baps.

A recent addition to Roves Farm Shop, Sevenhampton SN6 7QG is the zero waste pantry. Take along your own container to refill with pasta, beans, nuts, oil, grains etc and visit the Moo Station for locally sourced milk. Just buy a glass bottle from the farm shop and fill up or add a flavoured shot for a tasty milkshake to go. Artisan breads, free-range eggs, cheeses, fresh fruit and vegetables, homemade cakes, pies and quiches sit with an extensive range of store cupboard staple sauces, chutneys, pickled onions, jams and many more. Treat yourself to a craft beer, cider, ales, wines and spirits plus high quality chocolate and sweet treats.

Find more shops near you and if you’re elsewhere on holiday this summer at Fabulous Farm Shops

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Drive against cancer for Sobell House

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Jay, Paul and Reg are travelling from Oxford to Barcelona in a ‘spacious diesel with a a large boot for beers’ all to raise funds for Sobell House Hospice

Driving a £400 Ford Mondeo more than 1,400 miles may sound like madness but for friends Jay, Paul and Reg there’s method to their madness.

The trio are fulfilling a bucket list dream to compete in a TwoBall Rally and have decided to take on the challenge from July 18th to 22nd to raise funds for Sobell House Hospice.

The Beach Rally will take them from Saint Quentin in France through the French Alps to Annecy, on to the Italian coast, the glitz of Monaco, onwards to the French Riviera to Nice, Cannes and Saint Tropez topping up the tan before heading off towards Spain and the final destination of Barcelona.

The Ford Mondeo 2.0 TDCI was purchased for £400 without MOT and has spent the last few weeks being repaired, welded and having a new MOT – with a lot of thanks to team mechanic Reg from Oxford.

Jay, who, along with fellow rallier Paul lives in Abingdon, says: “We will be taking a small tool box as we do expect some issues but myself and Reg both have mechanical knowledge so if we do break down we hope it’s somewhere nice along the way, like the French Alps or the Italian coast.”

Their trusty steed has now been lovingly given a new lease of life and decked out to look like a US police car for their epic adventure and with the three friends ready to go in their costumes, it’s almost time to saddle up and set off. All they need now is your help in their fundraising.

“This charity sits close to my heart as I’ve personally had friends spend their remaining few months at Sobell House and after visiting a good friend’s little brother there it blew me away emotionally,” said Jay. “I saw first hand how amazing the staff took care of the kids and adults, how they worked so hard to make the place look amazing and how kind they were even under the extreme pressures of caring for such very ill people.

“I can’t imagine how it must feel working closely with end of life patients so I feel very passionate about trying to achieve as much money as possible to support them.”

Businesses are invited to get involved and sponsor the car with their logo on a sticker.

The Just Giving page will be updated with pictures and stories of their exploits along their 1,443-mile journey and look out for Jay’s footage of the expedition on TikTok – JayDogUK. You can follow and donate at tinyurl.com/ys5djkkp

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Uncover Oxford with a tour guide

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After deciding 30 years behind a desk was enough, Joanna Hamilton trained to become an accredited member of the Oxford Guild of Tour Guides. What will you discover on a tour of the famous city?

Do you know your own backyard? Oxford residents are bracing themselves for the summer arrival of visitors who flock to the city to find out more about the dreaming spires and their surrounds, but how much do you know?

Many of these visitors take a tour to learn about the city, it’s famous university, the great (and not so great) who have studied and worked here – and, of course, our literature and film locations from C.S. Lewis to Harry Potter!

But it’s often more local visitors, old and young, who discover the most and enjoy seeing familiar sites with fresh eyes. Members of the Oxford Guild of Tour Guides are all trained and accredited and offer a more personal experience for curious local as well as overseas guests. We also have exclusive visiting arrangements to some of our famous colleges.

No two tours are ever the same. All guides cater for people’s individual interests – be that history, architecture, famous books (from the Oxford English Dictionary, Alice in Wonderland and our own Inspector Morse, film locations (you can see me in the opening sequence of Mama Mia 2 which was filmed in New College’s stunning hall with Bjorn from Abba!) to the story of the City and the University from Saxon times, through the beginnings of the University (lots of violence as well as study and religion) through to the current day, the turbulence of the 16th and 17th Century when Charles I set up court here and what is going on in Oxford now…

And the stories can be told while wandering our lovely medieval streets. Even in the busy summer, you can organise a tour for early morning or later afternoon to avoid the crowds. Or wrap up warm and take a tour during the quieter winter months.

People often book tours as gifts for family and friends (I did a funeral party once and also a wedding group) or local businesses looking to treat their staff or VIP customers.

You’re sure to find out so much more about places that we all know – but do not always know much about.

Every day I learn something new, not just about Oxford, but about the history of our country and the rest of the world. I also get to meet such interesting people and have an excuse to immerse myself in the work of notable characters and scientific innovations connected with our beautiful City.

You can find a Guide (you may know some of us!) at www.oxfordguildoftourguides.co.uk 

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