Twyford Scarecrow Trail returns for a wildlife-themed half-term adventure

Zoe Gater

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More than 60 creative scarecrows are expected to pop up around Twyford this October, as the popular community trail returns to raise funds for local schools.

Twyford is set to go wild this half-term as the Twyford Scarecrow Trail returns from Monday 26 to Saturday 31 October 2026.

Residents, local businesses and community groups will be transforming the village with imaginative scarecrows inspired by this year’s theme, Wildlife, giving families the chance to explore Twyford and see what creative creatures they can discover along the way.

Maps cost £3, with proceeds helping to raise funds for the PTAs of Polehampton Infant & Junior Schools and The Colleton Primary School, supporting educational initiatives and activities for pupils at both schools.

Maps will be available throughout the trail from Grapevine Estate Agents, open from 9am to 5pm, and Ola Coffee Shop, open from 8am to 3pm.

With more than 60 scarecrows expected to feature, visitors are encouraged to allow plenty of time to explore the village on foot, with opportunities to stop for refreshments along the way.

The annual trail has become a popular fixture in Twyford’s calendar, bringing together the community for a week of creativity, family fun and fundraising.

So grab your map, put on your walking shoes and see how many wildlife-inspired creations you can spot this October.

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Meet Oxfordshire’s adrenaline-loving activities coordinator

Zoe Gater

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From caring for others to throwing herself out of a plane, Blerta Cesula is making the most of life in Oxfordshire.

If you’re looking for someone who embraces life with enthusiasm, meet Blerta Cesula. The 26-year-old activities coordinator at Waterside Court Care Home in Wallingford moved to the UK from Albania in 2023 and has settled into local life – while finding plenty of ways to keep busy.

Describing herself as sociable, positive and outgoing, Blerta loves meeting people, hearing their stories and trying new experiences. She also enjoys keeping active, whether she’s at the gym, swimming or exploring the countryside on foot.

And she’s certainly not afraid of a challenge. A self-confessed adrenaline junkie, Blerta recently completed a skydive from 12,000 feet to raise money for the Alzheimer’s Society, a cause close to her heart. Thanks to the generosity of residents, families, friends and colleagues at Waterside Court, she raised an impressive £650.

“Skydiving from 12,000 feet was both exhilarating and emotional,” says Blerta. “I’m incredibly grateful for everyone who supported me. Knowing that the money raised will help people living with dementia makes the experience truly meaningful.”

Her role at Waterside Court is all about enriching residents’ lives through activities and experiences. Her love of animals has also led to local connections, including working with Blakes Pet Foods and Benson Tack & Feed – Animal & Pet Food Shop, and helping organise the Paws & Community Dog Show.

Although she doesn’t currently have a pet, Blerta is hoping to welcome a furry friend of her own one day. “I’ve always liked animals and would really enjoy having a pet to spend time with and take on walks,” she says.

When she’s off duty, Blerta enjoys exploring Oxfordshire. She particularly likes mooching around the independent shops, cafés, bakeries, charity shops and markets of north Oxford, with Summertown, Wolvercote and North Parade among her favourite spots.

She prefers discovering somewhere new to visiting the big high-street chains, enjoying the community atmosphere along the way.
For food and drinks, The Nags Head, The Victors and The Wandering Kitchen all get her vote, whether she’s enjoying a meal or catching up with friends. It’s the balance between countryside and city that Blerta loves most about Cumnor, where she lives.

“It gives you the best of both worlds,” she says. “It has a lovely village and countryside feel, with plenty of green spaces and beautiful walks nearby, but you’re also very close to Oxford.”

Looking ahead, she’s looking forward to crisp weather, colourful walks, festive markets, good food and time with family and friends. New Year’s Eve is particularly special, as it’s a big celebration in Albania.

And her wish for the world? Peace – along with a reminder for us all to slow down, be present and appreciate the people and moments around us. A pretty good philosophy for life.

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Meet Ally Taylor: The East Horsley fitness entrepreneur making exercise more inclusive

Zoe Gater

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Ally Taylor runs boutique fitness studio Amovida with her husband Grant in East Horsley and recently won the award for Fitness Industry Luminary at The Heart and Soul Awards.

With more than 25 years of experience as a personal trainer and fitness instructor, Ally Taylor has dedicated her career to helping people feel stronger, healthier and more confident.

Today, she runs boutique fitness studio Amovida in East Horsley with her husband, Grant. The couple opened the studio in 2024, creating a welcoming space for people who may feel overlooked by mainstream fitness.

Ally recently won the Fitness Industry Luminary award at The Heart and Soul Awards, recognising her contribution to the fitness industry.

We caught up with Ally to find out more about her life, career and favourite places in the local area.

Hi Ally, could you tell us a bit about yourself?

My full name is Alethea and I’m 47 years young. I grew up in Peterborough and moved to London for university in 1997, where I studied for a degree in Dance and English Literature.

Yes, I know it’s a random combination – thank careers advisers in the 90s!

I moved to Surrey and met my husband in 2010 when we were both working at Virgin Active in Putney. We lived in Shackleford, then Guildford and Ranmore Common, before moving to East Horsley in 2020.

I like being a cool aunt to four nieces and a nephew – as long as I can give them back!

I’ve been a personal trainer and fitness instructor for over 25 years. I present at national fitness events, conferences and festivals, as well as contributing articles and blogs.

I love travelling, and we try to visit at least one new place every year. We regularly go to Cape Town – we got married on a wine estate there in 2017.

Did you go to school in these parts, and did you enjoy it?

I went to school in Peterborough. I loved junior school but hated secondary school. I was bullied and didn’t really fit in.

I wasn’t cool – I did ballet twice a week, music lessons and went to running club from the age of six. I also took part in amateur dramatics with my sisters and brother.

My brother went on to become a professional performer and is currently on the world tour of Moulin Rouge!

Are there any local shops or businesses you love?

We love the local florist Lovelace and Green when we need a gift for someone or just something pretty.

We’re also partial to local coffee shops Annare and Bolo and Brew. Both do fabulous coffee and homemade treats.

What are your favourite local pubs or restaurants?

The Duke of Wellington is our local. It’s great for coffee in the morning – they give you Smarties with your coffee! – or a drink outside after a walk.

La Meridiana and Tara, the Thai restaurant where the owner wears local dress, are both good choices for a treat or weekend dinner.

Both are run by local families and have been here for years.

What do you most love about living in East Horsley?

I love the prettiness of the village. We’re lucky that in Horsley, you can get off the main road pretty quickly and into places such as Sheepleas Woods.

The Lovelace Bridges walk is long but great, and the people are lovely.

We also love being able to get into London reasonably quickly if we need to, as well as having easy access to the A3, M25 and Guildford town centre.

What highlights are you looking forward to later this year?

I’m due to present at Fitcamps on the Proms in Blackpool in November. The event won Fitness Industry Event at The Heart and Soul Awards, so it’s a really exciting opportunity.

Tell us a bit more about Amovida

After much TLC, we opened Amovida in 2024. We wanted the studio to appeal to people who felt they had been ‘left behind’ by mainstream fitness.

Our classes are small and intimate, and we also offer personal training.

We wanted Amovida to be accessible to everyone, including people living with health conditions. One of our trainers specialises in exercise for disability.

We love helping people and seeing the difference it makes to their lives.

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Joy by name, joy by nature: A daughter’s artistic tribute to her mother

Zoe Gater

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Artist Sue Ransley will present her first solo exhibition at Cranleigh Arts Centre, this October, celebrating the life and creative work of her late mother.

Born in 1918, Joyce ‘Joy’ Davis belonged to a generation in which women were often reduced to the label ‘housewife’. Yet she was so much more than that as her daughter Sue Ransley will demonstrate in her first solo exhibition.

Alongside being a much-loved wife, mother and grandmother, she was an inventor, published knitwear designer, author, artist and colour theorist.

Joy was also dyslexic and left-handed. At convent school, she remembers being told she was the “spawn of the devil”- a phrase that reflects the attitudes she encountered during her childhood and the many obstacles she had to overcome.

Running from October 13–31 2026, (not just a) HOUSEWIFE explores the different threads of Joy’s life. One part of the exhibition focuses on her family, work and creative identity. The other comprises a series of small works by Sue, inspired by memories, places, notes, writings and the things Joy loved.

“Mum always dreamed of staging a ‘One Woman, One Hundred Works’ exhibition, but never felt confident enough in her own work to do it. This show is my way of reconnecting with her, and the small works – of which there will be 100 – are my ode to Joy – a way of making her dream happen, and to celebrate everything she was beyond the label of ‘housewife’.”

Sue hopes that visitors will leave with a sense of Joy as a warm, engaged, funny and loving woman who was also a little bit naughty, “Joy by name, and Joy by nature”.

The exhibition is also a full-circle moment for Sue. She came to art later in life through an adult education class at Cranleigh Arts Centre.

Her parents spent the last 10 years of their lives in Cranleigh, and Joy loved the Arts Centre, volunteering there for a period.

Joy died in 1994. Through (not just a) HOUSEWIFE, Sue is revisiting her mother’s life and bringing her back into sharper focus through painting, memory and family history.

Original artworks, prints and booklets will be available to purchase.

A contemporary figurative artist, Sue’s work focuses on candid and affectionate observations of everyday people. She captures familiar moments, quirks, behaviours and imagined conversations, working from photographs and sketches made while out and about.

Sue is happiest with a camera and sketchbook in hand, observing the everyday moments that make people and places feel familiar. These observations are later developed into paintings in her studio.

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This free Bracknell book fair promises a brilliant day out for readers and aspiring writers

Zoe Gater

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Book lovers and aspiring writers can discover their next great read at Bracknell Book Fair this September, with 23 authors, talks, Q&As and plenty of bookish inspiration at its new home, Oaktree Garden Centre.

Book lovers and aspiring writers are invited to Bracknell Book Fair on Saturday, 19th September, when the free community event returns in a new home at Oaktree Garden Centre, Warfield.

Founded by local award-winning author E. L. Williams in 2024, the fair features home grown talent and writers from further afield for what promises to be a deliciously bookish day out.

Visitors can expect a wide range of genres, including crime, thrillers, romance, fantasy, YA and children’s books from the 23 attending authors.

Williams said: “2026 is the National Year of Reading and the fair aims to help readers discover titles they might not stumble across on the shelves of their local bookshop.”

The fair welcomes traditionally published, self-published and hybrid authors alike. “In my experience, readers aren’t worried about the route a book took to reach them. They care that it’s professionally produced and tells a great story,” said Williams.

The speaker programme will include readings, Q&As, author talks and panel discussions on topics such as getting started in creative writing, turning your life experience into fuel for your novel and the pros and cons of traditional vs self-published routes.

Oaktree Garden Centre Director Phil Went said they are delighted to host the Bracknell Book Fair for 2026.

“Our garden centre has always aimed to be a community hub, and supporting authors and creatives aligns perfectly with our values. We’re excited to welcome visitors for a day full of inspiration, conversation and – of course – great books.”

Williams added: “Oaktree is a stunning independent garden centre with a large dog-friendly café, and I honestly can’t think of a more perfect day – books, flowers, dogs, great food and the most fabulous cakes.”

Williams is best known for her Ethereal World novels, she also supports emerging writers through her Writing Scared Substack and one-to-one mentoring.

The book fair, 10am to 4pm, is free to attend. Free car parking on site. Dog Friendly.

See a list of those taking part at elwilliamsauthor.com/pages/bracknell-book-fair-2026.

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Free screening of the National Emergency Briefing heads to Abingdon

Zoe Gater

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A free community event in Abingdon this September invites us to explore the latest climate science & discuss how we can make a difference.

As conversations around climate change continue, a community event aims to unite people to better understand the challenges ahead – and, vitally, to explore what can be done locally.

Abingdon Carbon Cutters (ACC) invite us to a free screening of the National Emergency Briefing on Wednesday, 16th September, at Abingdon Baptist Church in Ock Street, OX14 5AG.

Beginning at 7.30pm, the evening will combine a thought-provoking film with an open discussion about practical steps communities can take in response.

Coming after another period of unusually hot summer weather, the event offers an opportunity to hear about the latest climate science in an accessible and engaging way.

The National Emergency Briefing (visit nebriefing.org) has been shown across the UK, helping explain both the scale of the challenges and practical actions closer to home.

Following the screening, attendees will be invited to share their thoughts and ideas in a friendly, informal discussion. Organisers hope the evening will encourage people from all backgrounds to consider how Abingdon can respond together, whether through everyday lifestyle changes, local initiatives or simply by learning more.

Abingdon Carbon Cutters have been working for a number of years to inspire local action on climate change through talks, workshops, projects and community events. The volunteer-led group believe meaningful change happens when people work together and support one another in making sustainable choices.

The event is open to everyone, regardless of their level of knowledge or experience. Whether you’re already involved in environmental projects, curious about the latest scientific evidence or simply looking to hear different perspectives, organisers say the evening is designed to be welcoming, informative and constructive.

Entry is free, but advance booking is required, with organisers expecting strong interest.

For more information or to book, visit abingdoncarboncutters.org.uk.

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Want to make a difference? Help a child discover the joy of reading with ABC to Read

Zoe Gater

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ABC to read’s 2026 School Impact Survey found 100 per cent of children supported improved their reading age or level, accuracy and confidence – and now the charity is looking for more Berkshire volunteers to help even more children thrive.

Volunteers for local literacy charity ABC to read are making a profound difference to children’s lives as shown in their 2026 School Impact Survey.

The survey found 100% of children improved their reading age or level, 100% improved their reading accuracy, 100% increased their reading confidence and all developed a more positive attitude to reading.

Schools have reported reluctant readers who now want to read daily with one child adding “they help us believe in ourselves”.
Marcia Rowlinson, CEO of ABC to read said: “Learning to read changes a child’s future. These results show what can happen when a child receives regular one-to-one support from a caring volunteer who believes in them.

“Every week our volunteers help children build the confidence, skills and resilience they need to succeed, not just in reading but across their whole education. We are incredibly proud of the difference they make.”

The charity is now recruiting new volunteers across Berkshire to meet increasing demand from schools. Anyone with patience, enthusiasm and around two hours a week to spare can make a lasting difference to a child’s future.

Schools interested in receiving support, or individuals wishing to volunteer, are encouraged to contact ABC to read to find out more.

Visit abctoread.org.uk.

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The Gardens Trust’s annual conference is heading to Milton Keynes

Zoe Gater

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A major conference in Milton Keynes this September will explore how greener thinking could help shape Britain’s next generation of communities.

As Britain embarks on plans for thousands of much-needed new homes, experts will unite this month to ask a vital question: how can we build communities that put people and nature first?

The Gardens Trust’s Historic Landscapes Assembly, on Wednesday 23 and Thursday 24 September 2026, will explore how lessons from historic landscapes and successful new towns could help create healthier, greener and more sustainable communities.

Titled New Town Landscapes: Learning from the Past, Shaping the Future, the conference will bring together experts from the UK and around the world to consider landscape-led planning, biodiversity, climate resilience, art and green spaces’ role in everyday life.

Milton Keynes makes a particularly fitting setting. Famous for its innovative planning and extensive network of parks, lakes and green corridors, the town offers a golden example of how nature and development can work together. Campbell Park (pictured by David Bailey), with its sweeping lawns, waterways and varied planting, is one of its best-known green spaces.

Speakers will look at case studies including Redditch and Warrington, alongside projects across Europe, the US and Asia.

You can find the programme and booking details at eventbrite.co.uk; alternatively, visit thegardenstrust.org.

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Experience Welsh musical magic in Wantage this September

Zoe Gater

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London Welsh Male Voice Choir bring their celebrated sound to Wantage for a special charity concert this September.

Wantage music-lovers are in for a very special evening of music when the renowned London Welsh Male Voice Choir bring their powerful harmonies to the Parish of St Peter & St Paul.

Performing at 7pm on Saturday 12 September 2026, the choir will raise funds for the Ray Collins Charitable Trust, helping support the local community through its charitable work.

And this is no ordinary choir. The London Welsh Male Voice Choir has performed on some seriously prestigious stages, including the Olympic Games Closing Ceremony and events marking the 100-year anniversary of the end of the First World War in Ypres.

More recently, the choir filled the Royal Albert Hall in June – so Wantage audiences can expect a pretty impressive night of singing.

The choir’s repertoire celebrates the rich tradition of male voice choral singing, with the distinctive warmth, power and emotion that have made Welsh choirs famous around the world. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of choral music or simply fancy an uplifting night out, this promises to be a memorable performance.

There’s also an opportunity to hear the choir before the big night, with recordings available on Spotify and plenty of uplifting video clips to discover on Facebook.

Most importantly, your ticket helps support a good cause. All proceeds from the Wantage concert will go towards the Ray Collins Charitable Trust and its work supporting the community.

So, if you fancy an evening filled with glorious harmonies, a touch of Welsh musical magic and the feel-good factor of supporting a local charity, this is one to put in the diary.

Tickets are £20 per person.

For more information or to book, visit eventbrite.co.uk/e/london-welsh-male-voice-choir-in-concert-tickets.

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Care options: Where your heart is

Zoe Gater

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Wherever you call home in later life, make the most of your golden years with assistance and advice.

Home sweet home or a move to a new home? The options for later life care are many and essentially come down to any medical needs you may have, your budget, and your desired level of independence.
You love where you live, great friends, an ideal location with good proximity to shops and services so why would you want to leave all that behind?

Domiciliary care could be the answer with visits from a carer who will provide assistance with specific needs and personal care needs such as washing, dressing or cooking. Domiciliary care is tailored to specific needs and routines. With the help of a caregiver you can continue to enjoy your independence and to maintain the relationships and connections you’ve spent a lifetime building.

Staying in your own home may also involve a few changes with adaptations, mobility aids and alterations or additions to everyday equipment.

If you feel unsteady or unsafe on the stairs, now’s the time to invest in an Acorn Stairlift. Easily installed on almost any type of stairs, it will help safeguard your wellbeing and independence at home for many years to come. Acorn’s British-made stairlifts can be installed within just a few days even on non-standard staircases. Designed with you in mind, they are reliable and simple to operate, with expert help just a phone call away should you ever need it. Imagine being able to go up and down your stairs whenever you like, free from pain or discomfort and, most important of all, safe from the worry of falling. Now that really is reassuring, for you and your loved ones alike.

A bath lift will support you as you get in and out or consider swapping it out for a side -opening door which negates the need for climbing in and out if you’re struggling. If you prefer a refreshing shower then how about converting to a wet room-style alternative so you can just walk straight in and out? Make sure you have a suitable non-slip bath mat to step on to.

Simple “fixes” in the kitchen can ensure it continues to be the “heart of your home” with adaptive cutlery and aids to assist opening jars and tins being small but essential changes.

Fiona and Stuart are in their seventies and have spent more than 40 years in their semi-detached in a leafy suburb making a lifetime of memories, friends and fun and with family members close by want to keep up with all this for as long as possible.

Stuart explained how a few changes have made this possible for them: “We’re lucky enough to still be in good health generally but we all need a bit of help sometimes. I had a bit of a fall and with Fiona’s arthritis she struggled to do some of the basics I needed. For us, having someone come in for a few days for a few weeks made all the difference. Should we need further help we wouldn’t hesitate to ask for more home care visits if needed.”

More help may mean moving to a residential care home where you can enjoy comfortable living and a lifestyle that offers choice allowing you to live life your way.

Care homes offer companionship and community and activities to enjoy with others – want to get your hair done or enjoy a movie in cinema-like surroundings, enjoy picturesque gardens without having to do any of the work yourself or perhaps you just want to catch up over a cuppa or even treat yourself with an early evening glass of wine?

Julia took the decision to move into a residential care home when her own home became too much for her and, with a friend having recently made the move elsewhere, she decided to take a look and see what it could offer her. “I wanted somewhere I could still look after myself and have some independence on a day-to-day basis but with the added bonus of knowing there was help at hand if necessary,” she explained.

“I’ve had some problems with my hip so some days walking too far can be an issue. Here I can pop down to the café for a mid-morning gossip with my new friends, get my hair done and relax in the cinema room. Of course my family come and visit whenever they like and they have the peace of mind of knowing that I’m living my best life as I enter my eighties.”

Living her best life also includes taking part in regular activities such as quizzes, singing afternoons and arts and crafts as well as exercise classes to aid mobility and ensure Julia and others enter their later life in as best shape as possible.

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