Inside a jolly yellow building on Newbury High Street, Alara & Selina are on a mission to spread the joy of creativity with LoLA including some Christmas workshops coming up
Alara and Selina (mums and sisters-in-law) feel passionate about the arts and art education.
They are on a mission to spread the word about process-based, artist-inspired experiences which help children to develop problem-solving skills, analytical thinking, self-confidence and to have fun!
Unfortunately two-thirds of primary schools in England receive less art education now than they did a decade ago. Over the past five years Alara and Selina have built up LoLA (Lots of Lovely Art) into a successful company that creates magical educational art boxes, sketchbooks and art-activity booklets to support children of all ages to be creative at home. LoLA boxes and sketchbooks are sold in retail spaces such as Harrods, Molly Meg, Conscious Craft, the Science Museum and online.
Wanting to create a space for hands-on art children’s classes, they have now developed the LoLA Creative Space and Café in Newbury. As well as a warm welcoming café, the space offers a wide variety of classes for everyone. All ages are welcome, from Little Ones (ages two to four) to after-school classes, home-education options, workshops for young adults and weekend sessions for the whole family.
Upcoming Christmas workshops include a This is Me Art Journal session (scrapbooking & expressing emotions), 10.30am-12pm on Saturday, 23rd November and a Make Your Own Advent Calendar, 1.30-2pm on 23rd & 10.30a-12pm on Sunday 24th. 10.30am–12pm on Saturday, 30th November you can make a recycled reindeer head decoration inspired by Picasso and 1.30-3pm, tree decorations inspired by folk art. 10.30am-12pm on Sunday, 1st December, there’s Christmas gift-making. The same time on Saturday, 7th December, you can make an arty wreath inspired by Andy Warhol and, 1.30-3pm, Christmas cards, gift tags and wrapping paper. On Sunday, 8th December, 10:30am-12pm you can make painted giant stockings. On Saturday, 14th December, 10.30am- 12pm make angel tree toppers and 1.30-3pm make mini Christmas trees inspired by Ai Weiwei. And, 10.30-12pm on Sunday, 15th December you can make snowflakes, stars and garlands.
While teaching workshops are not being held, head along to the café for a coffee while your child gets freely creative! Open Studios are offered nearly every day at the studio where projects and materials are offered on the art table. One ticket includes a hot drink and one space for a child to create at the workshop table.
Pop in to LoLA in Newbury, near the clock tower, RG14 1DT, to say hi or, for more info please email [email protected]
This Christmas feelgood show brings all the magic of the season to life with all your favourite songs, so book your tickets for 28th November now!
Step Into Christmas is a festive, feel-good show that brings all the magic of the season to life, with all your favourite Christmas songs including All I Want for Christmas Is You, Last Christmas, Jingle Bell Rock, Stay Another Day, Let it Snow, White Christmas, Do They Know it’s Christmas, A Winter’s Tale, Merry Xmas Everybody, and many, many more!
The show is produced by entertainers, one of the UK’s leading entertainment producers. Entertainers is run by father and son team, Michael and James Taylor who were recently listed in The Stage Top 100, a list of the most influential people in the theatre industry. They have over 30 other productions in their portfolio including The Magic of Motown, Cirque: The Greatest Show, The Rocket Man, Fastlove, and The Makings of a Murderer all of which are touring the UK throughout the year.
On Thursday 21st November, The Crown at Bray is hosting a fabulous, five-course dinner to celebrate game season which is well and truly underway in Berkshire and its surrounding area.
The highlight, curated by head chef Scott Smith, champions locally sourced game, including venison from Chiltern Venison [ Read more ] and pheasant which has been shot by The Crown’s very own tournant James.
Scott’s perfect, five-course tasting menu
The evening will start with a buttermilk-fried rabbit leg served with a moreish tarragon and bacon mayonnaise, followed by tender pigeon breast served with warm and nutty freekah; liver parfait and tart preserved plums.
Next, indulge in beautiful venison carpaccio served with mouth-watering pickled vegetables and beetroot; followed by deliciously rich pheasant breast; hearty choux farcie (stuffed cabbage); jus gras and bacon.
The evening will wrap up with a delectable custard tart served with velvety butter poached raisins.
£60 per person and you can book between 6.30pm and 8.30pm. Each course can be perfectly paired with a thoughtfully curated wine flight for an additional £40 per person and tickets are expected to sell quickly so book now before it’s too late.
The Crown at Bray, SL6 2AH. Call 01628 621936 or visit The Crown at Bray
Thanks to a dedicated team, the Bisham charity Accessible Boating Thames has launched a new ‘wheelyboat’ to help more people enjoy the river, regardless of ability or mobility
Old Father Thames has carved out much history in this part of the world, as well as the landscape.
But people who have some form of disability haven’t always found it easy to enjoy messing about on the river, which is why Accessible Boating Thames began its mission.
The charity based at Bisham Abbey has for many years provided water-based experiences for those who are not usually able to do so. By using specially adapted boats, trained and qualified volunteers and a hoist, the severity of disability has never been a barrier to participation.
After identifying a real need, the charity began working with national charity The Wheelyboat Trust and together embarked on a major fundraising initiative to secure the £68,000 required to fund a new ‘Wheelyboat’. As a result of these tremendous efforts, a Coulam V20 Wheelyboat was launched at the Bisham Abbey Sailing & Navigation School earlier this autumn.
Charity chairman Gavin Tisshaw said: “This is a momentous occasion for ABT – securing our own Wheelyboat will make such a difference and ensure we can continue to help those who need our services. We’re immensely grateful to all those who’ve helped us raise the funds. Our volunteers do a fantastic job and we offer opportunities from family picnics to full sailing opportunities, Bellboat sessions & Duke of Edinburgh trips.”
The Windsor Theatre Guild proudly present A Christmas Carol – A Ghost Story at The Old Court, Windsor from 27th to 30th November
Let’s set the scene. It’s a cold, cold Christmas Eve and miserly money-lender Ebenezer Scrooge has an unexpected visitor: the ghost of his former business partner Jacob Marley. Having been bound in chains for years as punishment for his lifetime of greed, Marley explains to Scrooge that he too will suffer the same fate unless he changes his behaviour.
It’s not too late, but first he must face three more ghostly encounters – the spirits of Christmas Past, Present and Future – who show him the error of his ways and that redemption is still possible. In turn, they show him the mistakes of his past and present, and the future implications for both himself and those around him, including his long-suffering employee Bob Cratchit, if he doesn’t change his ways. Can Ebenezer make amends? This much loved festive classic by Charles Dickens has been adapted by Mark Gatiss and promises an evening of spine-tingling suspense and joyful, musical delight.
Enjoy A Christmas Carol – A Ghost Story at The Old Court, Windsor between 27th & 30th November, thanks to Windsor Theatre Guild, Windsor’s longest-established non-professional theatre company with an illustrious history with a commitment to innovation, inclusivity, and fun! Visit Windsor Theatre Guild | Community Theatre Company in Berkshire
To book your tickets please visit The Old Court | or call 01753 911333.
Reading’s leading homelessness prevention charity invite you to enjoy Carols by Candlelight on Tuesday, 3rd December
This fantastically festive evening will return to Reading Town Hall from 6pm, with Launchpad patron and BBC presenter Matt Allwright and long-term supporter Andy Briggs as the hosts for the evening.
Enjoy a magical night of music and carols with the Take Note Community choir and the Reading Phoenix Choir. As well as seasonal songs there will be readings and inspiring stories about how, with your help, Launchpad is changing lives in Reading.
Every ticket sale will help Launchpad continue to provide homes for Reading’s most vulnerable this winter. Launchpad’s supported housing offers warm, clean, and safe accommodation for over 100 people in need – which are a lifeline to the many individuals, couples, and families at risk of homelessness, or who have already lost their homes.
Fiona Keyte, fundraising manager at Launchpad, says: “Every year, people tell us that Carols by Candlelight marks the start of their Christmas celebrations. Our event is a beautiful reminder of the spirit of community and the joy of giving during the festive season. We’d love to see you there!”
Tickets start at £12 per person and under-threes can attend for free. For more information and to buy your ticket, visit Carols by Candlelight 2024 – Launchpad
For anyone who is unable to attend, you can still support Launchpad’s work with a donation so the charity can help ensure local people have a roof over their head and a place to call home, for Christmas and beyond. Simply visit Donate – Preventing Homelessness In Reading
A stunning shot of ‘near threatened’ bee has been crowned the winner of a wildlife photography contest
The extreme close-up of an armed nomad bee won first prize in the Berkshire, Buckinghamshire & Oxfordshire Wildlife Trust (BBOWT) 2024 Photography Competition. A winter lake scene and a hungry bank vole are among the other winners.
The contest launched in April with nine categories including taking action for nature and mobile phone photography, and nature lovers of all ages were challenged to take pictures at one of BBOWT’s nature reserves or in their community.
The winning shot was taken by Luke Chambers at BBOWT‘s Dry Sandford Pit reserve Abingdon.
Luke said: “During one of my 4am outings, I was checking some vegetation for any subjects. This is one of the challenges with macro, you often have no idea what you’ll find, and it’s pure luck. But there she was, a very rare species of nomad bee, fast asleep. With my left hand, I adjusted the position of a nearby scabious flower so it was behind the bee, and help onto the plant she was on to stabilise the scene.
The image is also a focus stack – I took around 10 frames, all at different points of focus across the bee, then merged them together to achieve the detail you see. It wasn’t an easy photograph, but it was worth and is one of my favourite images to date. To win this competition with it means a great deal.”
As overall winner, Luke received a high-tech bird feeder camera. Along with all other category winners, he also won a wildlife photography masterclass as well as the honour of having his photo appear in BBOWT‘s 2025 calendar.
New for this year, the vote was also thrown open to the public with a new ‘People’s Choice Award’. After nearly two thousand votes were cast across ten shortlisted images, Peter Hines was crowned the public favourite with his close-up portrait of the iconic robin, and won a Nexcam solar-powered trail camera.
Peter said: “I am absolutely thrilled to received this award. My late sister-in-law, Anne, inspired me to get into photography 12 years ago and I love it. I have learnt so much from mistakes and successes. Wildlife, sunsets, smoke art and macro are my passions, so to have this recognition for one of my photographs is wonderful. A huge thank you to all who voted for my robin. Also thank you to BBOWT for giving me the opportunity to share my photos.”
Nine-year-old Logan Brown won the children’s category with his capture of a red admiral butterfly perched on red valerian. In addition to the category prizes, Logan has won a bundle of nature books for his school.
Speaking on behalf of Logan Brown, Frankie Gillespie said: “Logan has recently been diagnosed with a rare genetic eye disease and unfortunately the outcome will be total blindness. He has always loved photography and nature, so for him to have become one of the winners is wonderful news and he’s so excited!”
Nearly 200 photographers were submitted entries for this year’s competition, and the winners were painstakingly chosen by our panel of judges: BBOWT’s Wild Magazine editor Ben Vanheems, BBOWT website & design officer Chris Deeney, BBOWT’s membership assistant Beth Milner and wildlife photographer Steve Gozdz of GG Wildlife Experiences.
Ben Vanheems said: “Being on the judging panel is such an honour. The photos demonstrate a real flair for detail and an eye for creativity, and being able to go through that is just a ‘wow’ moment! There’s been incredible deliberation because there’s been such strong photography this year. It’s a joy to be involved in this process.”
Steve Gozdz added: “We’ve seen a wonderful selection of photographs this year in all categories and from so many wide-ranging people, from the kids right the way up to the adults. My personal favourites have again been the insects – we get to see them at such great detail which is something you don’t get the chance at with the naked eye. Well done to all entrants and thank you for making it so hard to judge.”
The winners
• Butterflies and other insects, and overall winner: Luke Chambers (Armed nomad bee at Dry Sandford Pit). Runner-up: Andrew Bristow (Grasshopper).
• Children (ages 6-11): Logan Brown (Red admiral). Runner-up: Henry Webb (Glistening inkcap).
• Teens (Ages 12-17): Harry Huie (Brown hairstreak). Runner-up: James Lloyd (Red kite)
• Birds: John Kearns (Marsh Tit at Warburg Nature Reserve). Runner-up: Grace Miller (Mute swan at Loddon Nature Reserve).
• Mammals: Mark Lauri (Bank vole at Warburg Nature Reserve). Runner-up: David Byrne (Rabbit at Greenham Common)
• Our nature reserves: Martin Wheeler (Cholsey Marsh). Runner-up: Peter Smith (Round-leaved sundew at Snelsmore Common)
• Urban nature: David Thirlwall (Kingfisher). Runner-up: Eddie Leslie (Honey Bee)
• Taking action for nature: Graham Bonham (Hedgehog). Runner-up: Richard Hopkinson (Barn owl)
• Mobile phone photography: Jennifer Stevens (Thatcham Reedbeds). Runner-up: Emma Stone (College Lake)
As we head towards Christmas there are events and activities aplenty to get you in the festive mood with illuminated trails starting this month to kindle your enthusiasm for the season ahead.
Tis the season to set eyes all aglow and nothing does that like the wonder of an illuminated trail. Windsor Great Park Illuminated is returning for its fourth year from November 15th to January 4th. Bringing the woodland and water to life with a festive celebration of light and a sparkle of magic. Discover a forest trail full of music and light where woodland creatures come to life, elves have a party and a whole host of festive moments will get you in the spirit. Take a moment to enjoy a delicious dish, mulled wine and hot chocolate or toast a marshmallow around the fire pit at a cosy rest stop. Booking essential, visit Windsor Great Park Illuminated: light up your year!
Image: Mike Will
Be captivated by the magic of Wellington Illuminova as you step into a world where imagination knows no bounds. Embark on a journey through the illuminated paths of Wellington Country Park, November 22nd to December 23rd. Let the enchanting lights spark your creativity and transport you to a realm where dreams come to life. Experience the illuminated night trail that never grows old and book at Wellington Illuminova – An illuminated kingdom in the heart of Wellington Country Park
Image: @lukedyson
Starting from November 16th, immerse yourself in a wonderland of beautifully adorned trees, garlands, and twinkling fairy lights, all inspired by classic Christmas films. Experience the enchantment of the season at Basildon Park as it pays tribute to timeless Christmas classics until January 5th. Younger visitors will want to pick up an activity sheet and take part in the children’s trail around the gardens.
Step into Greys Court, sparkling with Christmas decorations from November 23rd to January 5th and take part in the children’s festive trail around the grounds. Join a candlelight tour of Greys Court and get into the festive spirit on December 5th, 11th & 19th when a knowledgeable guide will take you on a tour of the house with a mince pie and glass of mulled wine.
Head to Reading Winter Wonderland at Hills Meadow, selected dates November 30th to December 24th to enjoy Santa’s grotto with personalised Reading Winter Wonderland gift, huge undercover real ice rink, character days, not to mention festive food and treats, authentic German sausages, German bar with all your favourite German beers, giant candy canes, rides and attractions. Unlimited ride wristbands offer great value too. Find out more and book at Booking — Reading Winter Wonderland
Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without chocolate so head to Chocolates for Chocoholics in Hurst to meet Santa in his grotto. Pick up your passport, make and decorate your own Christmas choccy bar with Mrs Claus before joining the elves to play games and have a dance at the North Pole Disco. Book at Santas Chocolate Grotto in Hurst Berkshire
Celebrate the festive season at Santa’s Grotto at Dobbies Hare Hatch, Twyford where this year it’s even more magical with a Little Seedlings train-themed journey for families to enjoy. Take in the atmosphere of the enchanting forest, and after a warm welcome from the elves at Sleighbell Station, children will get to experience snowy scenes, spot woodland characters, find hidden nutcrackers, all culminating in the chance to meet Santa. November 28th to December 24th. Your furry friends aren’t forgotten either, they can join the Santa experience and get a special dog toy to take away, December 5th to 24th. There’s also a quiet grotto on December 6th to allow children with additional needs to enjoy the experience. Book for any of these at Events | Dobbies Garden Centres
Visit Santa in his grotto at Squire’s Garden Centre, Wokingham, selected dates November 23rd to December 24th. Be welcomed by one the jolly elves and chat with Santa himself – you can ask him what you’ve always wanted to know! Children will receive a wonderful, wrapped gift and an ‘I’ve Seen Santa’ badge. £1 from every ticket sold will be donated to the Wokingham centre’s chosen charity of the year CLASP.
Bertie Slippers will have the whole family laughing as he brings the Christmas cheer with his magic, balloons, and puppet show to Hobbs of Henley Santa Cruises, December 21st, 22nd & 23rd. Father Christmas will be holding court in his grotto, bearing gifts for all the good girls and boys. Visit River cruises & boat hire on the Thames ~ Hobbs of Henley
Go along and enjoy a skate in the historic Alexandra Gardens and take in the fun of the fair in Windsor, November 15th to January 5th. There’s fun on the ice for young and old alike, where all levels of skaters are welcome, experienced and inexperienced. The viewing area, serving festive food, and some attractions are also under cover, so non skaters can relax and stay warm while watching their family have fun on the ice rink, whilst enjoying freshly ground coffee or sampling the festive food and drink from the Bar and Grill.
You won’t fail to be impressed and amazed by the giant LEGO tree on a festive family day out at LEGOLAND transformed into a wintery wonderland! The twinkly lights, giant DUPLO® Christmas tree and magical atmosphere will have the whole family full of Christmas spirit. There is so much to do from festive shows and entertainment to LEGO® building fun and your favourite rides and attractions. Visit Father Christmas’s cabin and much more, selected dates from November 23rd.
Wokingham Winter Carnival is a fun day out for the whole family on Sunday, 24th November where you can shop at more than 125 stalls, take funfair rides, and enjoy a whole host of street entertainers, music, singing, dancing and the fun of the fair with loads of different rides, whether you’re young or old. Santa will be in his grotto and for lunch there are stalls offering an amazing choice of food and drink. Organised by Wokingham Lions Club it’s one the year’s highlights.
Look out for the Christmas lights trail around Spencers Wood, Three Mile Cross and Shinfield. Join in the festive fun and find all the wonderfully decorated houses in the villages. No décor is too big or too small! Check Facebook for details Spencers Wood, Three Mile Cross and Shinfield Charity Christmas Trail 2024.
The Lexicon’s festive season will burst into life on Friday, 15th November when the town centre’s new Christmas lights are switched on. Santa will launch the Christmas celebrations with the Rock Choir, before he heads to his grotto which opens the next day, 16th. Santa’s Grotto will feature an enchanted elevator to transport visitors to the North Pole where you’ll be greeted by friendly elves and invited to step inside to magically travel through wintery and festive landscapes, before reaching the door to his cosy cabin. Take part in The Lexicon’s free Reindeer Trail and shop at The Christmas Market Stalls from the 15th featuring 13 picturesque wooden huts selling a selection of gifts and delicious food and drinks. For more & to book Santa’s Grotto visit The Lexicon Shopping, Bracknell, Berkshire | Shops, Restaurants, Cafes & Gym
See Dinton Pastures Country Park glow and party the night away as you join in a two-mile walk around Black Swan Lake under starlight and take in the illuminated woodland, various light features, live music from Abi Powell and Saxcelerate and much more on Saturday, 16th November on the Glow Walk 2024. Why not try – or just watch if you’re not brave enough – illuminated Stand Up Paddleboarding organised by Go with the Flo. Buy glow in the dark merchandise and enjoy hot chocolate, hot dogs, burgers, prosecco, beer and mulled wine, all available to purchase from Dinton Activity Centre. Book tickets at Glow Walk 2024 | firstdays
If you’re looking for a different tipple to celebrate the season with then how about keeping it local with Tutt’s Clump cider. The multi-award winning ‘proper’ cider is made by crushing apples and letting them ferment and mature naturally. Owner Tim Wale says: “We use unwanted cooking and eating apples as the base for most of our ciders and receive donated apples from all over Berkshire.” You couldn’t get more local! Try it for yourself, order from Tutts Clump Cider |
And of course, it just wouldn’t be Christmas without a panto to boo and hiss at. There’s Snow White at the Kenton, Henley; Dick Whittington at the Theatre Royal, Windsor; Cinderella at Reading’s Hexagon and Robin Hood and the Magic Arrow at South Hill Park, Bracknell.
As we head towards Christmas there are events and activities aplenty to get you in the festive mood with illuminated trails starting this month to kindle your enthusiasm for the season ahead
Tis the season to set eyes all aglow and nothing does that like the wonder of an illuminated trail. There’s still a few days left to discover the breath-taking trail through light, colour and fantasy at Welford Park near Newbury. Explore the night-time wonder of Welford Park through a wonderful spectacle of light and sound. Enjoy this beautiful, illuminated trail through the majestic woodland and around the gardens all lit under the stars until November 10th. Book at Spectacle of Light | Welford Park
Stourhead has been enhanced by the curated trail featuring the stunning Christmas Cathedral, in which more than a thousand pea lights will be woven into the forest landscape. New features this year include a Sea of Light stretching into the distance, larger-than-life snowflakes suspended in trees and Light a Wish, which fills the air with giant, floating dandelion seeds. You’ll be surrounded by a sea of light and feathers floating in the night sky from November 29th to January 1st. Book at Christmas 2024 | Stourhead | Wiltshire | National Trust
Create magical memories at Longleat as you journey through time at the Festival of Light with a Roman chariot, mammoth, dinosaurs and an Egyptian pyramid as well as a dragon boat from the Shang dynasty. The highlight will feature Longleat House transformed as part of an immersive video display. Travel through time from when dinosaurs roamed to the present day with an appearance by Elizabeth I. The display November 9th until January 5th features more than 1,000 lanterns. Tickets at Longleat
Be part of the Corn Exchange’s Festival of Light on Sunday, 15th December and help transform Newbury town centre into a twinkling wonderland. The procession will travel along Northbrook Street before arriving in the Market Place with live music and a festive atmosphere. In the run up to the event, join a lantern making workshop, November 30th – December 8th and create a traditional pyramid lantern out of willow and paper ready to carry in the procession. More details & booking at Lantern Making Workshop | Corn Exchange | Corn Exchange Newbury
The illuminated outdoor Christmas Trail in the grounds of Blenheim Palace is one of the highlights of the festive calendar. Wander the picture-perfect gardens filled with Christmas cheer to discover a place where new memories are made as a multitude of glowing lights and Christmassy sounds fill the air with festive fun. Inspired by the natural world and festive themes, the illuminations have been created by internationally renowned artists and are guaranteed to add extra magic to the festive season. Wander through thousands of twinkling lights, seasonal scents, sparkling baubles, shimmering tunnels of light and vibrant woodland lakeside displays. November 15th to January 1st. Booking essential Christmas at Blenheim | Festive Light Trail & Christmas Market
The family-friendly illuminated light trail at Cotswold Farm Park is a wondrous night-time experience, showcasing marvellous creations, installations and illuminations. The lights will guide you on an enchanting stroll through the park after hours along the picturesque trail. Enjoy thousands of lights Nov 22nd-24th, Nov 29th-Dec 1st, 6th-8th, 13th-15th, 18th-23rd and 28th-31st. Book at A Magical Enchanted Light Trail On The Farm | The Cotswolds
Christmas comes to Marlborough on November 29th with the festive market and lights switch on. The following day brings the chance to shop for gifts at the Christmas fair at St Peter’s selling a range of products, from hampers and gifts to candles and infusers, local gins and natural skincare, handmade textiles, glass crafts and art.
Newbury gets into the Christmas spirit with the lights switch on (6pm) and a day of festivities on November 16th before finishing off with the official Lights Switch On Afterparty at Newbury Racecourse. The artisan Christmas market starts the day with unique and handmade gifts on offer. From Inch’s Yard to the Market Place and the Waterside Centre, the town will be filled with the sound of music and live performances throughout the day.
The Hungerford Victorian Extravaganza is a highlight of the area’s festive calendar on December 13th. The town becomes a Victorian-era wonderland, complete with fairy tale Christmas lights, steam engines, entertainers, charity stalls, food stalls, The Rock Choir, and Elsa, Anna and Olaf. The festivities kick off at 5pm with a Christmas street fair of stalls, Santa’s grotto, Christmas horse carriage rides, steam engines, festive food and drinks, big wheel and fairground rides. There’s also an indoor Christmas market in the Town Hall offering crafts, honey, cakes, cheese, chocolates and liqueurs, jewellery, glassware, knitted accessories, smoked trout, books, pies, pastries, cosmetics and organic oils.
One of the most popular Christmas markets and not just in Wiltshire is Bath Christmas Market which returns from Thursday, 28th November until Sunday, 15th December. Meander through the cobbled streets of the heritage city centre of Bath, soaking in the festive atmosphere whilst browsing some of the best independent makers for the South West and beyond. Bath Christmas Market is a free, open-air event that is sure to get you in the festive mood.
This Christmas, discover a wonderland of light and festive cheer at the historic Town Gardens, Swindon as you embark on the Enchanted Gardens Light Trail. Wander through a magical backdrop of illuminated trees, discover a trail of remarkable light art sculptures, low level soundscapes, interactive illuminations and a specially commissioned light show. Follow the trail from November 29th to December 24th. Book at Events for 29/11/2024
Hop aboard The Rose of Hungerford for an hour-long trip where everyone meets Santa and the children all receive a present. For more & to book visit The Rose of Hungerford – Kennet & Avon Canal Trust Take a trip on the Jubilee at Newbury which will be cruising to Greenham Land to find Santa. Enjoy a Christmas story, singing and time with Santa on the one-hour trip with a gift. More at Jubilee – Kennet & Avon Canal Trust Both trips available on selected December dates.
At the home of the Heritage and Rural Skills Centre at Coleshill, explore this makers market to discover artisan gifts hand made by local crafts people and craft course providers. Browse locally handmade crafts, gifts, and much more. Bring the kids along to enjoy some festive children’s activities too on Sunday, 24th November.
Steam into Christmas at Didcot Railway Centre and help Santa find his missing reindeer, November 30th and selected dates in December. The reindeer have escaped and are lost, he needs them to deliver all the presents on Christmas Eve. You’ll receive a special passport and stocking as you enter as well as a small gift at each reindeer station. On December 17th book for a very special one-man show, A Christmas Carol features Gerald Dickens, Charles’ great great grandson. Book at Didcot Railway Centre
The Greyhound Inn, Letcombe Regis near Wantage is offering a fixed price Festive Dining Menu from November 29th until Christmas Eve from £35pp. Private dining rooms available for larger groups. Wreath-making courses available 29th & 30th November. Stuck for a present idea? Buy a Greyhound Gift Voucher for a range of dining or stay experiences. All details at Home – The Greyhound Inn or call 01235 771969 to discuss your requirements.
Looking to create a hamper as a gift or for the perfect party fare? Gastro Nicks in Collingbourne Ducis is an Aladdin’s Cave of charcuterie, antipasti, cheese, chutneys, pasta, pesto, sauces and oils not to mention the wines, Champagne and sparkling wines to accompany it all. And no Christmas celebration would be complete without a slice of delicious Panettone. Add a touch of the Med to your festivities, shop at gastronicks.co.uk
And finally, Christmas just wouldn’t be Christmas without that great British tradition, the panto… oh no it wouldn’t! Corn Exchange Newbury is staging Dick Whittington, the tale of the lad who went to London in search of his fortune from November 29th to January 5th, Book at Dick Whittington Pantomime 2024 | Corn Exchange Newbury
Tilehurst primary school wants your plastic to help it win a new playground
Park Lane Primary School needs your help in its quest to win a playground with a frame made from 100 per cent recycled materials.
The Tilehurst school is taking part in the contest to win the resource made from recycled plastic food storage containers and lids, as well as reusable plastic water bottles and caps.
The school is asking people in the community to help in their efforts to win the playground, by bringing their used plastic food storage containers and lids, reusable plastic water bottles and caps to the school’s collection box. The school collection bin, next to the library at the Infant Site on School Road, is open to the public from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday. The school which collects the largest amount by December 18th will win.
To participate in The Sistema® Recycled Playground Contest, primary signed up to the Sistema® Food Storage Container and Reusable Bottle Free Recycling Programme. This free programme is for all containers, lids, plastic bottles and caps, which cannot be recycled through conventional kerbside recycling collections and would otherwise end in landfill.
The recycled playground will include two slides, an approach ramp with rope and a large joining platform amongst other features. The winning and runner-up school will win a Sistema lunchbox and water bottle for each pupil.
Head teacher Mrs Browne said: “This really is a great initiative that will not only help our school but also our environment, whilst educating our pupils and the local community on the importance of recycling.”
