Full of beans

Karen Neville

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Berkshire

Remember when the only choice for a coffee was white or black? Times have changed and ordering a coffee is now akin to reciting War and Peace. However you like your caffeine shot (or not) support National Coffee Week this month

Cappuccino, latte, flat, white, Americano, affogato – however you like yours, as a nation, we in Britain drink around a whopping 95 million cups of coffee a day!

So, the only way to mark National Coffee Week, October 16th to 22nd, is by raising a cup in whichever style you prefer. The week is the biggest celebration of coffee, raising funds for Project Waterfall which brings clean drinking water to coffee growing communities.

Since 2011, the UK Coffee Week community has raised more than £800,00 for Project Waterfall, reaching over 45,000 people with clean drinking water, sanitation and education.

Funds raised during the 2023 campaign will support Project Waterfall’s latest project in the Berbere district of Ethiopia. The country is considered the biological and cultural home of coffee but 82% of households in the Berbere area use water from unprotected sources.

Working in partnership with the local government as well as WaterAid, Project Waterfall will build a solar powered multi-village gravity-flow water system, that will provide water to 40,000 people. The new infrastructure will be climate resistant and accessible to everyone in the area.

How can you get involved and do your bit to help? Hospitality businesses of all shapes and sizes fundraise by donating from every cup or bag of coffee sold, or by running events and competitions.

Whether you serve, sell, sip or roast the much-loved bean – which is actually a fruit – you can take part in UK Coffee Week and support coffee-growing communities. Among the vendors locally taking part are Fieldhouse Coffee, Rose Brae, Woodlands, Windlesham and COLCO Coffee, Unit 3, Manor Farm, Common Road, Eton Wick, Windsor. Explore their selection of hand roasted coffee from around the world including Colombian Speciality Coffee, Single Origin Coffees and Premium House Blends. A percentage of their coffee proceeds goes to support great causes, why not grab a bag today?

Also participating is Art Cafe, Bonn Square, Oxford where, as the name suggests you can appreciate some work from local artists as you enjoy your cuppa.

There are more coffee shops than you can shake a bean at so why not try one of these which serve up a little something extra?

In picturesque Ripley, you’ll find Nest Home & Café, part café, part home / gift shop with a reputation for excellent service, world-class coffee and eclectic shopping. All food and drink is served in recyclable trays, cutting down on waste too. You’re also welcome to take along your own favourite cup or mug and enjoy a discount on your coffee.

Here’s a coffee shop with a difference, the Terrace Lounge Coffee Shop at Harry Edwards Healing Sanctuary in Shere boasts stunning views over the Surrey Hills. Recently opened, could there be a better way to enjoy some ‘me time’ in stunning surroundings and while you’re there why not combine it with some healing?

Described as a ‘curious coffee shop and gift shop’, Hemingways in Haslemere has found a special place in the hearts of locals with its ‘marvellous mix of old and new, classy and comfortable, lively and relaxing with a wonderfully eclectic decor and range of gifts and homeware that combine to make a special and favourite place for all those who visit’. It is also heavily involved in the community, supporting many local charities and organisations.

Cappuccino with a cavapoo? No problem at Cantine in Fleet. The dog-friendly café offers a warm welcome to our furry friends as well as their owners with a delicious range of sweet treats and a recently launched full English breakfast to tuck into too. Take your pooch along and they can tuck – or lick – into dog ice cream and the popular Puppicino treat too. There’s local art on the walls and regular quiz nights too to test your little grey cells.

Never has the saying from little acorns been more apt for Acorns Coffee Roastery which operates from The Shed in Bordon. From the early days as a mobile coffee shop in a converted horsebox, the team and passion for coffee grew with the addition of Head Roaster Matt whose knowledge means you can now enjoy Acorns small batch roasted coffee anywhere in the country.

At Coffee Under Pressure, the two baristi who created it believe that great coffee is an affordable luxury, but also an everyday need which is why, when visiting the shop in St Mary’s Butts, Reading you will find passionate and knowledgeable baristi with attention to detail and persistence for the best brew every time. Chat to them about how to explore new flavours and brewing methods and ask every detail you wish to know about their coffees or teas.

All things gluten-free are celebrated at YayLo in Cross Street, in Reading town centre. You may recognise the only gluten-free coffee shop in town, it was previously the award-winning Nibsy’s. Now under a new name and new ownership, it is proud to be gluten-free and serving up ‘awesome-licious gluten-free’ pastries, donoughts and cakes alongside its equally delicious coffee.

Robyn’s Nest at Moss End Cafe, Warfield, isn’t just offering great tasting coffee and cakes, during the pandemic they provided cake boxes for the NHS and keyworkers and now offers business networking events as well as a play area so you can enjoy your coffee – while it’s hot – while your little ones play.

The Collective in Church Road, Caversham, is a speciality coffee shop, licensed cafe, lifestyle store and grocer with community at its core. It has won awards for bringing together a love of incredible coffee, great quality food, design and living well into one destination.

If it’s all about the coffee for you Spoon in Duke Street, Henley, proudly serves Extract Coffee. Ethically sourced, kind to farmers and utterly delicious. Often dubbed ‘the best coffee in Henley’, they sell pre-ground Original Espresso in-store so you can take Extract’s heavenly blend home with you to sip at your leisure.

The Pantry in Thatcham has its own specially blended coffee from their partner coffee supplier Kingdom Coffee. The Pantry Blend is a full bodied, smooth coffee with a creamy mouth feel and notes of berry fruits, chocolate and molasses. Sounds delicious and each and every cup is expertly crafted for you by the trained staff making it stand out in so many ways.

A former Wesleyan chapel is the location for Community Hub cafe at City Arts.The barista coffee machine and home made cakes sit alongside the current art exhibition. Cakes are baked by local bakers and can be enjoyed with great barista coffee and a selection of high quality teas. Browse and buy the unique cards on sale from local artists too.

Elaine’s in The Courtyard, Hungerford and Hughendon Yard, Marlborough believe everyone should be able to eat out knowing they are able to choose food that is right for them and is delicious and nutritious, no matter what diet they are committed to. Alongside wholesome fare, you can enjoy your coffee in a relaxed and welcoming setting.

The award-winning Hampstead Norreys Community Shop is a true gem on a mission to serve its community in every way. Stocking essential and speciality groceries, it champions sustainable and locally made products not least in its cafe where you’ll feast on delicious home-made food, barista coffee and other beverages.

If it’s location you’re after while you sip on your coffee, then head to The Tea Shop by the canal at Newbury, this can be found in a unique grade II listed building on the Kennet and Avon waterway.

Coffee for a cause is the idea dreamed up by James at Coffi Lab opposite the Town Hall in Marlborough. The venture combines his love of Labradors, creating a coffee brand and making a difference. The cafes, of which there are eight, are not a dog café as such, but open venues; a focal point of leafy neighbourhoods where family and friends come together without having to leave their canine companions at home. As it says on the website, Coffi Lab is ‘driven by a desire to do good’ and to that end they have so far raised in excess of £60,000 for Guide Dogs for the Blind.

Cappuccino with a cavapoo? The Dog’s Spot in Abingdon is a unique place for dogs and their owners. A place to meet, socialise, enjoy good coffee and cakes, in a relaxed dog-centred space with its own doggy menu. In the shop they offer a range of high-quality food, treats and accessories, as well as being home to grooming spa.

Oxford’s Grand Cafe can stake a unique claim to fame – it is housed in the spot where the very first coffee shop in England was founded in 1650. According to a number of sources, including Samuel Pepys, an entrepreneur named Jacob established the first English coffee house in High Street almost 400 years ago. There’s a challenger for this accolade with Queen’s Lane Coffee House, established in 1654, saying it is ‘the longest established coffee house in Europe’. The difference? Queen’s Lane has always been a coffee shop whereas the Grand Cafe has actually been a variety of businesses over the years. Both have great historical value and serve an exceptional cup of coffee and more!

Society Café is an independent speciality coffee shop in the heart of Oxford city centre. Their focus is on making great coffee sourced directly from the best coffee producing farms in the world and roasted by the best roasters in the world. Try a cup and see.

Location, location, location – one of the best is surely that occupied by The Waterfront Cafe at Benson. Relax with your brew on the vast decking as you watch the boats gliding up and down the river. The perfect spot to watch the world go by. The decking and covered outside areas are also dog friendly.

Head to the Vale and Download Museum in Wantage for coffee and a little history or for some rustic charm how about Cogges Kitchen in the old milking parlour at Cogges Manor Farm in Witney. Tuck in to tasty cake with a good cup of locally roasted coffee.

And if you like your coffee among plants then head to Root One Garden Centre in Brightwell-cum-Sotwell where you can enjoy some delicious sweet treats too.

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Garden Invaders

Round & About

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Berkshire

There are many plants that can inadvertently take over our gardens, particularly weeds, but there are some beautiful plants on sale that you can wonder why you ever planted. These are my own experiences and everyone will have a different gripe, says R&A gardener Cathie Welch

Houttuynia cordata ‘Chamaeleon’ (pictured)

A beautiful plant often sold for ponds and waterside planting now rampaging in my edible border. It is edible but not very nice. It spreads underground by rhizomes and pops up everywhere gathering momentum after its winter sleep.

Bamboo

This is where it is essential to do your homework. There are bamboos and there are bamboos. Avoid at all costs the running away ones that can colonise gardens and invade those of your neighbours as well as lift up paths, destroy foundations and puncture pond liners. I tend to choose Phylostachys aurea and nigra which are clump forming with beautiful stems but they are quite high maintenance needing to be thinned and trimmed constantly. Occasionally an unwanted shoot pops up but it is important to cut it off. You are in charge of your plants and not vice versa.

Helianthus

Helianthus is the Genus which includes the annual sunflower. There are several perennial varieties that spread indefinitely if you don’t keep them in check. They also spread by underground tubers and as anyone who has grown Jerusalem artichokes on their allotment will know.

Sorbaria

This is a very pretty fern-like spreading shrub colonising the whole of Thursley common and the surrounding gardens. It is readily on sale in garden centres but never plant it in your garden unless you have the room.

Anemone japonica

I mentioned these in my last article and have battled with them in many a small garden. There are tall invasive varieties but also delightful cultivars like ‘Frilly Knickers’ which I can’t grow at all. They need a regular cull so just choose carefully.

Others

There are many other invasive garden plants like Hypericum calycinum which spreads like mad but is great for banks as is Vinca major or periwinkle. There are many Buddleias and Ivies that do not seed and are not invasive. All plants have their right place. Choose your plants and their location carefully and do a little research on your soil type as one person’s thug plant may not even thrive in your garden.

CGS Courses

Please ask for details as I am now meeting potential students for Spring Courses as well as bespoke workshops and volunteering. I can also come and teach you in your own garden and am happy to chat over a coffee at Ashdene.

Consultancy gift vouchers available too.

Website Cathie’s Gardening School: Surrey’s Garden School

Email [email protected]

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Spooky Bucks – October Halloween special

Liz Nicholls

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Berkshire

Bucks is home to many spooky sites including the Hellfire Caves… Liz Nicholls gathers up some local ghost stories

Some 300 feet beneath the Church of St Lawrence, capped with its gold ball, lie the Hellfire Caves. This intricate network of caverns a quarter of a mile into the hillside was created by Sir Francis Dashwood who, in 1747, introduced a poor relief bill to pay workers a shilling a day to mine the chalk here and build a road into Wycombe.  

Once the haunt of members of The Hellfire Club, whose former HQ in Medmenham Abbey invited river-bourne visitors to Fait Ce Que Voudras (“do what thou wilt”), as Bill Spectre (ghosttrail.org) explains… “As guests could arrive without being seen by the pappazzi, the great and good would play there with their mistresses. They say ladies of the night were hired to walk around dressed as nuns [“dollymops”]. When he took it over in 1750, Sir Francis had the grounds turned into a ‘garden of lust’ with explicit statues, fruity plants and suggestive topiary. He was finally pushed into moving to the Hellfire Caves after a monkey he’d released ran riot during a church service.” 

Tall tales of satanic rituals and debauchery here abound, and Hellfire Caves is a thriving tourist attraction today, as well as Hughenden Manor, whose former resident Prime Minister & Earl of Beaconsfield Benjamin Disraeli is said to make his presence felt. The caves, with their imposing flint entrance, have featured on screens big and small, including TV shows Inspector Morse, Most Haunted and Chucklevision.  

As David Kidd-Hewitt explores in his book, Buckinghamshire Stories of the Supernatural (with good spirits and a generous pinch of salt), Hellfire Club steward Paul Whitehead left his heart to be entombed in the Mausoleum but it was stolen by an American soldier. Paul’s ghost is said to stalk the caverns and hills above. 

Others have related visits from “Sukie”, a young woman, dressed in white, said to have been summoned to meet her suitor in the caves before realising she was the victim of hoax by local lads. She’s said to linger here amid the dripping caves and at her place of work, the nearby George & Dragon. As David notices: “Pubs and taverns always seem to predominate when it comes to supernatural stories and Buckinghamshire is no exception. In fact, so many public houses across the country claim to be haunted, it would be unusual to find a pub without a ghost or two…” The book explores paranormal stories at the Ivy House, The Greyhound in Chalfont and The Boot & Slipper in Amersham, as well as Wycombe Swan and the abandoned Canadian Red Cross Memorial Hospital in Taplow. 

The Royal Standard in Forty Green, which claims to be England’s oldest pub is said to be haunted by a 12-year-old drummer boy who was among a dozen Royalists beheaded by Parliamentarians during the English Civil War. Charles II’s mistress is also said to visit in spirit. 

You can book in for a spooky sleepover with Haunted Rooms (hauntedrooms.co.uk) at venues including Missenden Abbey, which was founded in 1133 and favoured by King Henry III. The November dinner & stay is already booked up by eager ghoul-hunters seeking the immoral “Black Monks of Missenden” and the lady in crinoline carrying flowers floating down the stairs and through a door. 

Henry VIII brought Anne Boleyn and Catherine Howard (the two wives he had beheaded) to Chenies Manor, another Haunted Rooms ghost hunt venue. I used to do silver service here during my shortlived teenage career as a waitress and always felt a shudder as I passed the staircase. But when I stayed last December for a last-minute birthday treat, no spirits slipped by (except for a few vodkas). But plenty of other spirits are reported at Chenies where, during the English Civil War, parliamentary troops used the long gallery as a barracks. 

As many as five ghosts are claimed to frequent the Crown Inn in Amersham, the setting for Hugh Grant and Andie MacDowell’s romantic scene in Four Weddings and a Funeral, as well as my own parents’ wedding. Staff at the 16th century coaching inn have complained of shouts to “get out now!”. Some punters have reported a spectral drinker at the end of the bar at last orders. 

Make of all these spooky stories what you will, but as David adds by way of caveat: “The devil is in the detail runs the saying, but more often than not you would find it difficult to locate very much ghostly detail, let alone a devil.” 

Claim a 20% discount at countrysidebooks.co.uk with code R&A20 

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Eight great Rioja wines to enjoy

Round & About

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Berkshire

Discover a different style of Rioja wine. Round & About’s wine columnist Giles Luckett recommends 8 Riojas that offer a new perspective on this classic region…

I was sharing a bottle of Rioja with a friend of mine a few days ago, and he asked, ‘Don’t you ever get tired of Rioja?’ I made to reply, ‘Oh no, I love Chilean wines’ (a sommelier once asked him which Rioja he’d like, and he said ‘A Chilean one’), but he gave me pause for thought. I do drink a lot of Rioja, and I never get tired of it. Why? Because there’s an amazing diversity of styles and flavours on offer. You could drink nothing but Rioja for a week and twice on Sundays without repeating the experience.

So, for all you Rioja wine lovers – Chilean and the more commonly seen Spanish ones, sorry, Ed! – here are eight expressions of this majestic wine that I would urge you to try.

I’ve mentioned my love of white Rioja before. Once something best avoided, it’s now one of the best value white wines you can find, with the top wines – Contino Blanco (Noble Grape £23.99) or Viña Tondonia Blanco Reserva (£115 Berry Bros & Rudd) – fit to rank with the world’s finest whites.

My current favourite is the Muga Blanco (Majestic £12.99). This is a modern-style white Rioja in that it’s fermented in steel and then sees only three months of oak ageing. The result is a fresh, tangy wine that offers barrel loads of peach, spiced pears, grape and grapefruit flavours with just a hint of cream.

Rioja isn’t famous for its sparkling wines, which is a shame as some of the best Spanish sparkling wines I’ve ever had have been from here. Take the Azabache Brut Metodo Tradicional Rioja, Fincas de Azabache (Corks £22.95). There are only 8,500 bottles of this beauty made each year, and it’s a once-tried, never-forgotten experience. Produced from white Tempranillo (who knew? I didn’t) in the traditional method, this is a wine that combines vibrancy with complexity. The nose is fruit-driven, with all manner of yellow berries jostling for your attention, while in the mouth, citrus mingles with yeast against a backdrop of baked apples. This is a great aperitif or works equally well with smoked fish.

Rosé Rioja, or rosado to give its proper title, is almost always great fun but rarely serious. A big exception to this rule is the Alegra de Beronia (Majestic £11.99). It’s worth buying just for the bottle, which is just as elegant and refined as the wine inside. Blushing amber pink, this Garnache-Tempranillo blend offers a rose and cheery nose, while the soft, generous palate combines strawberries and red cherries with notes of peach and nectarine. Gentle as a summer breeze, try this on its own or with fresh seafood or lightly cured pork.

Rioja is big on value for money, and if you’re looking for a lighter style with more personality than the Groucho Club on a Saturday night, look to the Cune Ciranza (Sainsbury’s £10). I was introduced to this when I was at Harrods’ wine department, and it blew my young palate away. More years than I care (or can) remember, it’s still a firm favourite. Mid-red, it’s bouquet is of crushed black and red berries with a hint of vanilla and smoke. Fruity and forward on the palate, it has all the classic Rioja elements of berry fruits, spices, orange zest, and cream but is presented in an easy-going, rounded, gentle style.

Another wine that shows Rioja’s eminent affordability is the Wine Society’s Rioja (£8.50). This is a very traditional style of Rioja, with plenty of spicy American oak, plenty or extraction, and a goodly quantity of stewed black fruits, given a lift by highlights of Seville oranges and cranberries. Smooth as silk and rich as Bezos, this is another great wine to keep to hand, and at £8.50, it’s worth joining the Society to get it.

Up to now, the wines I’ve recommended have been produced from classic blends, such as Tempranillo and Garnacha or Viura and Malvasia. My next recommendation is both a varietal, made from a single-grape type, and made from one of the less well-known Rioja varieties. It’s the Beronia Graciano (Vinissimus £20). I warn you now, this is not for the faint of heart; this is a Rioja for those looking for power and intensity. Red black, the nose is a dark, brooding affair with stewed black fruits, earthy spices and woodsmoke. The palate is weighty, concentrated, and broad. Prunes, blackberries, herbs, boysenberries, vanilla, charcoal, and a lift of lavender make for a fascinating mouthful. This is a wine that’s capable of long ageing but is sensational now with roasted meats, strong hard cheeses, and pâté.

My next wine is a Riojan legend, the Imperial Reserva 2018 (Waitrose £26.99). Imperial is a wine that blends tradition with modernity and offers one of the great Rioja wine experiences. A blend of Tempranillo, Graciano and Mazuelo, aged in a combination of American and French oak, freshness and depth combine here in a wonderfully stylish way. The nose brims with zesty red and black berries, which are pinned back by smoke, cream and violets. At first sip, it comes across as clean, delicate, light even, but the blackcurrant and bramble fruit’s piercing intensity is soon backed up by notes of roasted meat, minerals, dried cherries, sandalwood, orange zest and green herbs. A fine wine by anyone’s definition, this too will develop over decades.

I’ll finish with a flourish, with the Coscojares Vindedo Singular Rioja, Fincas de Azabache (Corks and Cru £47.50), which shows how Rioja’s Garnacha (France’s Grenache) can play the starring role. Made from a tiny parcel of vines on a 1.9-hectare vineyard, all of which were planted before 1955 at high altitude, the results is a wonderfully subtle, complex wine that oozes class and complexity. Mid-red, it offers a combination of red cherries, dried strawberries, and damsons, with intriguing touches of aged balsamic vinegar, pepper, caramel, and raspberries. Ideal with everything from belly pork to goats’ cheese, it will develop beautifully over the coming decade.

Well, that’s it for now. I do hope you’ll try some of these fantastic wines so you can enjoy the many faces of Rioja.

Next time out, Chile. No, really, it will be Chile!

Cheers,

Giles

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Bowls, a sport for everyone

Round & About

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Berkshire

Martin Beeching from Whiteknights Indoor Bowls Club extols the benefits and invites you to have a go at an open day

Tucked away near the top of Beech Lane, Earley, Reading is one of England’s finest indoor bowls clubs and we are currently recruiting new members.

With seven bowls rinks and 800 members, Whiteknights is a professionally managed club which caters for all levels – from beginners to international players. We are a welcoming and friendly club with a full bar, superb new café, lounge plus large on-site car park.

We run regular free bookable taster sessions for total novices and all ability levels. All you need to bring with you is flat-soled shoes, such as trainers.

Why not reserve a free ‘Taster Session’ at one of our open days on Sundays 1st October or 8th October. Players with experience are also welcome to come along and try out our excellent facilities. If neither date is convenient, then contact us and we will find an alternative time.

To book a session – email our manager Andy Knapper at [email protected] or telephone 0118 986 0759, (if you leave a message, we will get back to you).

The benefits of bowling can be helpful to both your social and physical well-being. Dr John McKenzie (Health & Safety Director at Whiteknights) says: “As people approach middle age and beyond, it is vitally important they exercise regularly.

“Flat green bowls helps build core strength plus improve flexibility and circulation. It can also keep the brain active, so it’s the ideal sport for both able-bodied plus the less able of all ages.

“Above all else, bowling is FUN.”

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Mo & The Red Ribbon Newbury

Karen Neville

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Berkshire

Breathtaking promenade show presented by Corn Exchange Newbury and 101 Outdoor Arts on September 30th

Corn Exchange Newbury and 101 Outdoor Arts – National Centre for Arts in Public Space – present the breathtaking promenade show Mo & The Red Ribbon for one night only in Newbury.

With a route starting at 7pm at the Newbury Clocktower and ending by The Wharf, this joyful, childish, playful and poetic show combines spectacular staging and emotional storytelling to explore the experience of migration from a child’s perspective, offering an ultimately optimistic look at the world we inhabit and those we share it with.

This free production follows the journey of Mo, a child refugee separated from his family, and his fantastical journey towards a new life. Told through large-scale puppetry over a promenade route through the centre of Newbury, French artists L’Homme Debout tell Mo’s story through a beautifully crafted giant puppet and a sequence of colourful and larger than life scenes.

There will also be an opportunity for local people to participate in the show, learning skills in outdoor performance and working closely with the French company and production team from 101. If interested please email [email protected].

Danielle Corbishley, Head of 101 and Outdoor Programmes says: “Mo & the Red Ribbon is an incredible outdoor performance that invites the whole of Newbury to come together to welcome Mo, a giant puppet, on a journey through Newbury Town Centre. Please join us for this moving story told on a grand scale!”

The Corn Exchange and 101’s outdoor programme is supported by Arts Council England and Greenham Trust. The event does not require booking.

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Shrek The Musical at New Theatre

Round & About

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Berkshire

Book in to enjoy the award-winning Shrek the Musical in Oxford this week, conjured up by a new creative team with a fabulous cast…

You’re invited to leave your troubles Far Far Away and join the adventure as Shrek and Donkey endeavour to complete their quest of defeating the dragon and saving Princess Fiona. Featuring fabulous songs including I’m A Believer, Big Bright Beautiful World and I Know It’s Today, Shrek The Musical has cemented itself as the ‘musical extravaganza for big kids and little kids alike’.

From the producers of Hairspray and Priscilla Queen of the Desert, Shrek The Musical brings together a new creative team to re-imagine this award-winning Broadway and West End hit show for a new audience, featuring all the classic characters from the Oscar®-winning DreamWorks animated film and the iconic songs and story from David Lindsay-Abaire and Jeanine Tesori’s original musical.

Rising star Cherece Richards (Once on This Island, Regent’s Park Theatre) will make her debut in a principal role as the Dragon, joining the Shrek-tacular principal cast lineup which includes Antony Lawrence (Shrek), Joanne Clifton (Princess Fiona), James Gillan (Lord Farquaad) and Brandon Lee Sears (Donkey) touring through to April to a total of 31 venues.

The ensemble cast of Shrek the Musical will include Leo Abad, Soctty Armstrong, Imogen Bailey, Jabari Braham, Georgie Buckland, Natasha Cayabyab, Mark Darcy, Jonathan David Dudley, Remi Ferdinand, Sonny Grieveson, Edward Leigh, Bethany Kate, Jessica Lim, Andile Mabhena, Bronte MacMillan, India Thornton. Talia Duff, Gabby Gregorian, Roy Shafford and Jamie Jonathan complete the full cast line-up. 

Antony Lawrence will play Shrek (Scar in The Lion King (International Tour) as well as Mary Poppins (National Tour), Matilda the Musical (Cambridge Theatre/RSC) and We Will Rock You (International Arena Tour).

He says: “The great thing about doing Shrek, because it’s a well-known story, is that we already know the characters. There’s the double-edged sword of wanting to make the characters your own and the relationships your own, but at the same time there is an element of audience expectation. It’s finding that balance of wanting to give them what they know, but at the same time we want to find our Shrek and our Fiona and our chemistry between ourselves. That’s what makes doing a live version so fantastic, as you get the best of both worlds.

“Normally as an actor, when you’re on stage, if you feel like you need to burp, you’re fighting that urge. The great thing about playing a character like Shrek, who is very flatulent and farts and burps all the way through the show, is that if I need to burp, I’ll just burp, at any point, and it’ll be completely natural!”

Visit Shrek The Musical Tickets

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Frimley goes pink for organ donation

Karen Neville

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Berkshire

Organ Donation Week runs from September 18th to 24th and Frimley Park and Wexham Park hospitals will be lit up pink, the colour of the donation card

This year (April 2022/ March 2023) 39 organs were donated at Frimley and Wexham Park Hospitals, irreversibly changing 39 lives. 

This is a fantastic result for Frimley Health, however, more than 50 per cent of the population still have not registered their decision about donating an organ. To put this into context, although there were 3,029 transplants last year nationally, there are still over 7,000 people on the transplant list. Of those who are waiting, 782 are in the South-East region, of which Frimley Health is a part, so there is still a long way to go.  

With Organ Donation Week just around the corner, 18th-24th September, it’s vital we raise awareness of this important issue in the hope that more people will register their decision at  NHS Organ Donation and make their wishes known to their loved ones so that even more people can be saved. 

To highlight this issue and help start conversations, we’ll be going pink! 

Throughout Organ Donation Week, we will be lighting up our acute hospitals – Frimley Park and Wexham Park in pink – the colour of the Organ Donation card. 

Talking organ donation with Frimley Health specialist nurse

To explain the process of organ donation, we spoke to Brooke Timms, specialist nurse organ donation, who has been based at Frimley Park Hospital for the past 18 months.  

Brooke, who has been a nurse for the last seven years has worked in various intensive care units ever since she graduated from the University of Greenwich. Her passion is helping those who are most in need on their road to recovery. 

Why organ donation?

I have always worked in intensive care where organ donation is a part of all end-of- life care considerations. Working in intensive care during the Covid-19 pandemic was incredibly challenging and unfortunately many patients did not survive their admission. After the pandemic I wanted a change of direction. I have always been passionate about advocating for patients and their end of life wishes, and so becoming a specialist nurse in organ donation seemed the right path for me. 

Working as part of the organ donation team is a privilege. It’s also rewarding as more than 50,000 lives have been saved through organ donation and transplantation in the UK. 

Can you explain the process of organ donation?

The journey of organ donation involves many people and several different organisations – though the patient and their family and friends are always front and centre. 

When a patient is referred to the service as part of their end-of-life care planning, usually by the intensive care unit, our first responsibility is to access the organ donor register (ODR) to ascertain whether the patient has registered an organ donation decision in their lifetime. This is essential as we need to be aware of their wishes prior to continuing our assessment. We then work to assess the patient’s organ donor potential. If they are in a position to be able to help others through organ donation, we will have a discussion with the patient’s designated next of kin, family and friends to ascertain their end of life wishes.  

As a specialist nurse my role is to support those involved and to ensure the process is as safe as possible for everyone. We collect important clinical information and once this is complete, begin to look for potential organ recipients.  

Once suitable recipients are found, specialist transplant retrieval teams come to the hospital to perform the organ donation operation. Once organs are retrieved, they are transported to the recipient hospitals to be transplanted – to give the precious gift of life. Wherever possible, we contact families to let them know how their loved one’s organs have been used to save lives, something we know gives them great comfort at a difficult time. 

What myths would you like to debunk?

When speaking with families they often feel their loved ones would be unable to donate their organs due to certain medical conditions or age. This is untrue. While there are some conditions that mean organ donation cannot happen, in the majority of cases tissue donation, such as corneal (eye) donation can still go ahead – giving someone the life changing gift of sight.  

What would you like to highlight about organ donation?

There is a profound disparity between ethnic groups, organ donation and transplantation. As of 2021/22, people of Asian heritage accounted for 3% of deceased organ donors but made up 18% of those on the transplant waiting list. Similarly, those of black heritage represented 2% of deceased organ donors but made up 10% of the transplant waiting list.  

Organs are more likely to be matched to someone of the same ethnic background and therefore it’s vital that we’re reaching out to all communities. In 2022/23 the consent rate for those of black and Asian heritage was at 40% compared to the consent rate for white donors which was 71%.   

Changes since Max & Kiera’s law?

In 2019 the Government initiated the opt-out law change, meaning that everyone in England was considered to have no objections to becoming an organ donor if they had not registered an organ donation decision. Also known as Max & Kiera’s Law after Kiera who courageously donated her heart to save a young boy named Max.  

Since the law change, we’ve found that people are talking more about organ donation and their end of life wishes which is great, but we need them to continue to do so. Although many are aware of the law change, it is still paramount that people register an organ donation decision. This is simple and easy to do, you can register online at:  www.organdonation.nhs.uk, by calling 0300 123 23 23, picking up a leaflet or by registering on your driving license or at your GP.  

Hardest and most rewarding parts of the job?

The hardest part of this role is that I see a lot of people experiencing the worst times of their lives, losing their loved ones, however it is a privilege to be able to support them. The most rewarding aspect of this job is being an advocate for the patient/donor and their families to ensure that their precious end-of-life wishes are met. 

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Mucky Weekender out of this world

Liz Nicholls

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Berkshire

All the stars aligned to make Mucky Weekender the best small festival on Planet Earth this summer…

A short time ago (last weekend) in a galaxy not very far away… the stars of jungle, dub and more came out to shine.

Four thousand rockers and ravers took off from Vicarage Farm near Winchester on a two-day mission to explore Mucky Weekender created by intrepid Dub Pistols frontman Barry Ashworth.

And this summer’s highlight did not disappoint with four star-spangled stages for 2023. As promised, The USS Seanie T spaceship boldy went where no MC had gone before, and the Crazy Diamonds Club Stage dazzled bright. Leeroy Thornhill (ex Prodigy) and DJ Format were two of the many highlights blowing minds at The Shack while The Ashworth Mad House provided the perfect base for astronomical sets from Goldie MBE, Charlie Tee, Stereo MCs, general Levy, Krafty Kuts, Bez’s Acid House and many many more.

This was my first trip to Mucky Weekender, and the fourth event spreading the love thanks to hedonist and helper Barry, who is patron of Tonic Music for Mental Health who offer free support and recovery programmes for the vulnerable people within the music and arts community.

The intimate capacity crowd of all ages, roaming a stunning 28 acres of private parkland, make for a community feel, with great vibes and everyone taking care of each other – especially important on this scorcher of an end-of-summer weekend.

Top marks must also go to the weird and wonderful creatives who added their own sprinkles of spacedust, such as Jethro & Tom with their sonic instrument experience in The Stump. Also, everyone who got involved with this year’s intergalactic theme outdid themselves, with outfits and props of stellar proportions.

If any of this means anything to you, and you miss the old days and spirit of drum and bass, Mucky is for you. Coming back to reality might be a bumpy landing, and your legs might not work the same way for a couple of days afterwards, but this is a price worth paying to leave the home planet for a few days.

Next year’s shindig will have a Mad Hatter’s Tea Party there, so make yourself a brew, happy recovery and hope to see you next September!

Visit: Mucky Weekender Festival

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Saddle up for National Racehorse Week!

Round & About

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Berkshire

From 9th to 17th September, in an experience like no other, more than 130 events will take place across the country to show the public what life as a racehorse is really like.

Racehorse training yards, studs and retraining centres will open their doors and invite everyone to get up close to the equine stars of horseracing, providing family-friendly demonstrations, exciting displays, and a unique day out with something for everyone. Most events are free of charge, with more than 13,500 spaces available.

TV personality Chris Hughes, who is a racehorse owner and ambassador for National Racehorse Week said: “The impact of getting up close to a horse cannot be underestimated. And racing has created a unique opportunity through National Racehorse Week to help people meet these incredible animals, experience the life of a thoroughbred and talk to the dedicated teams who care for them 365 days a year. There is nothing quite like this is any other sport. It is fantastic that the events are free to attend with everyone welcome to join.”

Eve Johnson Houghton is a leading racehorse trainer, based high on the Berkshire Downs – a perfect setting for training thoroughbred horses. Alongside a hosted yard tour and chance to meet the racehorses at Woodway there will be a charity raffle, cake sale and guess the winner competition with proceeds going to Racing Welfare and Air Ambulance.

Kim Bailey has trained over 1400 winners and is lucky enough to have achieved the magical “Big Three”, The Grand National (Mr Frisk), The Cheltenham Gold Cup (Master Oats) and The Champion Hurdle (Alderbrook). He will welcome visitors to meet the stars of his yards and see horses exercising.

Run by Great British Racing, with principal funding from The Racing Foundation and The Horserace Betting Levy Board, National Racehorse Week is the sport’s biggest campaign to bring people across Britain behind the scenes of racing to show the incredible work that goes into the care of thoroughbreds, and give real-life insights into the lives racehorses lead.

To find out more and to claim your tickets, visit National Racehorse Week.

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