Explore and uncover the links between Jane Austen and the Thames Valley with a new book by Berkshire author Jane Durant and follow in the delicate footsteps of our heroine
It is a truth universally acknowledged that Jane Austen is one of our most loved authors and her books some of the most read in the world, but how much do we know of her local connections?
Discover a fresh perspective on her life with a new book Jane Austen in the Thames Valley which delves into her lesser-known connections with our area in the expert hands of local author Jane Durant.
The Thames Valley, a region frequently overlooked in Austen studies, harbours numerous ties to the beloved author, more than initially apparent as June reveals in this thoroughly researched and meticulously documented book, unveiling these connections. Accompanying the narrative are three detailed excursions designed to help readers explore and uncover the links between Jane Austen and the Thames Valley.
“For enthusiasts like me,” begins June, a retired teacher, “we must visit the places where Jane Austen placed her feet or had any tenuous connection with her. We all wish that she visited our own area – whether it be the United Kingdom or further afield. I felt that her connection with my area of the Thames Valley (I lived in Wokingham and now Arborfield) was neglected and I began to visit such places that were mentioned in her many biographies or articles written about her. The very lack of evidence provoked the bloodhound in me.”
June’s ‘bloodhound’ was first stirred after being given a year’s subscription to the Jane Austen Society in the early 1990s and, despite the writer not being on her radar, on a whim she decided to keep up the subscription and her love affair blossomed, “I began with biographies and initially knew more about her than about her books.”
Those books – Sense and Sensibility (1811), Pride and Prejudice (1813), Mansfield Park (1814), Emma (1815), Northanger Abbey (1817) and Persuasion (1817) – are as loved today as they were when Jane put pen to paper at her home in Chawton, Hampshire, sitting at her small writing table.
Her enduring attraction June puts down to “academics in the literary world who wish to admire and analyse a style of prose. There is plenty to intrigue the critique in Austen. Then there are the films that animate the general public who, especially over the past two decades, love costume drama.
“Another reason for Austen’s enduring attraction is that her novels are wide open for the fan-fiction writers of this world. Her unfinished stories (The Watsons and Sanditon) had them finished by novelists as early as 1845 and continue to this present day with Andrew Davies’s Sanditon. It could also be that there are others like me who just can’t leave unanswered questions alone.”
It was these unanswered questions that led June to her book Jane Austen in the Thames Valley investigating beyond the biographies and through the ‘evidence’ sections in her book clarifies some of Jane’s connections with Berkshire and Oxfordshire. She continues: “Added to this, I can’t stop writing and have kept a journal for decades. My Jane Austen journals are also illustrated with photographs and ephemera. Jane Austen in the Thames Valley sort of materialised unintentionally and then I wanted to share my discoveries with my Jane Austen friends. Two successful publications encouraged me to submit the book to [publishers] Austin Macauley.”
June’s writing examines Henley and Harpsden, rich in familial links and evidenced in a letter in which Jane writes: “We are to go to Windsor in our way to Henley”. Further explorations led to discoveries in Fawley, Hurley, Wargave, Sonning and Hare Hatch where she followed in the footsteps of many of Jane’s friends and relations.
Reading is well known as where Jane went to school, the Jane Austen Society has placed a plaque near the spot where the school once stood. Jane and her brother Henry stayed in Reading overnight when she writes in a letter from the time “I should not wonder if we got no farther than Reading on Thursday evening”. She references a stop over in Reading in Sense and Sensibility when sisters Eleaner and Marianne are travelling and “wondered whether Mr Palmer and Colonel Brandon would get farther than Reading that night”, showing her familiarity with Reading as a staging post.
June’s work gives an insight into the life and character of Jane, whose sense of humour, interest in human behaviour and quirky opinions of idiosyncrasies shape her novels and form her characters. “Mostly she was a typical parson’s daughter of her times, with the added injection of an incredibly intelligent and lively family life,” says June. While she garnered little ’fame’ in her own lifetime had she been living in this celebrity-obsessed time, June adds: “I think she would have been very pleased at her celebrity status – so long as she did not become famous and ‘an exhibit’. I think, too, that she would have been derisive of the extreme fanaticism of some of her Janeite fans.”
So which is June’s favourite Austen? “My favourite book is always the one that I would be currently reading. At the moment it is Northanger Abbey which gallops along with a lot of humour and young persons’ view of life. Every time I read this book I fall in love with Henry Tilney. He remains my favourite man of all the novels. And I must admit that I love Catherine best because I prefer to teach teenagers to any other age group.”
In a bid to enhance girls’ participation in cricket, three clubs in the Thames Valley have joined forces to establish a new girls’ cricket team, Thames Fusion. Ally Holloway shares the news
The collaboration with Wargrave, Sonning and Reading Cricket Clubs aims to provide girls of all ages with meaningful opportunities to engage in competitive hardball cricket, and so far the results have brought a wave of energy to girls’ cricket at all three clubs.
While each club will maintain its individual girls’ cricket teams, this joint effort has led to the formation of a new team called Thames Fusion, with an emphasis on playing hardball cricket.
Wargrave CC was a driving force behind the initiative. Chairman Andy Meader said: “Whilst we have offered girls cricket for many years, there have not always been sufficient numbers to play as many fixtures as we’d ideally like. We were aware that other clubs have been similarly challenged so we were delighted that Sonning CC and Reading CC saw the benefit in pooling resources. The launch of Thames Fusion is an exciting development, and the combination of players, coaches, and facilities from all three clubs promises an outstanding summer of cricket for the girls (and anyone interested in joining us)!”
Nalin Rupasinha of Reading CC added: “Thames Fusion is now able to offer girls at Reading CC the right level of competition and development. This collaborative effort is paving the way for a sustainable and thriving future for girls’ cricket in the region. Long may it continue!”
Throughout June and July, girls aged U11 to U15 will have the opportunity to participate in over 25 cricket games and festivals. This significant increase from previous seasons ensures girls gain valuable experience to further enhance their cricket skills and will have the chance to play just as much cricket as boys their age.
Tim Murphy, Chair of Sonning Cricket Club’s Junior section, said: “The club is delighted to be part of this partnership. The girls have thoroughly enjoyed playing at U11, U13, and U15 levels, with many expressing happiness in playing all-girls cricket due to our combined strength in depth. The positive feedback from the girls underscores the success of this initiative.”
Two Berkshire-based companies have generously offered their support by providing playing kit for the new team. Ally Holloway, the women and girls’ representative at Wargrave CC thanked Goodall-Smith Wealth Management and Wise Owls Childcare. “This sponsorship has enabled the purchase of branded kit for the girls without any additional cost to them. It was a key priority for us when setting this team up, that Thames Fusion was bonus without requiring players to make any further financial commitment beyond their club membership.”
For further information about Thames Fusion, please email [email protected]
Thames Valley Air Ambulance celebrates 25 years and you’re invited to join the party and help their life saving work
In 1999, Thames Valley Air Ambulance first took to the skies to treat patients in critical need. Now, a quarter of a century and nearly 35,000 call outs later they are celebrating this milestone with a fun-filled family day for the whole community on June 22nd at Penn Estate.
Amanda McLean, Chief Executive Officer at Thames Valley Air Ambulance said: “Both the care we deliver at the scene and the support we offer long afterwards are funded solely by our community. It’s your generous donations that have allowed us to be there for these 35,000 people in their time of need.”
Their ‘Big Birthday Bash’ will include a variety of fun activities for both kids and adults to enjoy, from circus shows and workshops to special demonstrations from their crew plus plenty of delicious food and drinks from local vendors.
Tickets start from £4 and all proceeds go to help Thames Valley Air Ambulance continue to be there for those in most need across Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire. More at Big Birthday Bash – Thames Valley Air Ambulance
Did you know: • Last year, we were called out 3,293 times to help people in need of urgent critical care. • We are called out on average 9 times a day. • The flight time between our base at RAF Benson and anywhere in Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, or Oxfordshire is just 15 minutes. • To find out more about the work of Thames Valley Air Ambulance and donate visit Thames Valley Air Ambulance
Choosing where and how you say ‘I do’ and celebrate your marriage is the first big decision for many couples, finding the venue that best suits your style and vision for the day will set the tone – no pressure then!
You’ve said yes and now it’s time to start the planning, there are so many decisions to be made not least the venue but don’t fret there are more options than you could toss your bouquet at to suit every style, theme and budget.
Thames Valley Venues
Courtyard by Marriott Oxford South
Whether you are looking for a traditional wedding or a bespoke package, personalised to your individual requirements, the Wedding Co-ordinator will be with you every step of the way. The modern and stylish hotel can comfortably accommodate ceremonies of up to 50, cater for parties of up to 80 for dinner and up to 100 for an evening reception. They are fully licensed for civil, humanist and religious ceremonies. Whether you are planning a large party or just inviting your closest friends, the 170 guest rooms ensure everyone can stay and have a good time. Find out more at www.marriott.co.uk/oxfcx.
The George Hotel, Wallingford
Licensed for civil wedding ceremonies and with the adjacent Castle Gardens providing the ideal backdrop for photographs, The George can cater for your every need. If your celebrations are for a smaller group of family and friends, the Private Dining Room will accommodate up to 30 guests. For larger and more formal gatherings, which require evening entertainment, the Wealh’s or Sir John Hedges Suite are suitable for parties of 50 up to 100 for the Wedding Breakfast and 80 to 150 for the evening. More information at peelhotels.co.uk/george-hotel
Lains Barn, Wantage
The family-run venue has been catering for weddings and events for more than 50 years and offers a plethora of inside and outside areas for you and your guests to enjoy, without sacrificing that all-important atmosphere. The timber vaulted roof is steeped in history, dating back to 1750. The U-shaped design creates the perfect flow for your day to unfold. When night falls, Lains’ grounds are illuminated by festoon lighting – making for some seriously fabulous photo opportunities. Visit lainsbarn.co.uk.
Picture: Siobhan Beales Photography
Earth Trust, Abingdon
Mark your nuptials surrounded by nature with a rustic countryside wedding in the renovated 19th century barn at the Earth Trust at Wittenham Clumps. Not only can your celebration there be as personal and unique as you wish but you’ll also be championing the natural world and our green spaces. Fison Barn and the courtyard are both licensed for weddings and are both relaxed and picture perfect. Poem Tree Barn is ideal for mingling while you enjoy the bar and catering. The intimate courtyard is perfect for some chill-out time. More at earthtrust.org.uk.
Cosener’s House, Abingdon
The 19th century house occupies a picturesque Thames-side position with private gardens; it truly is the hidden gem of Abingdon. You’ll work with an experienced wedding planner, who will guide and advise you along your journey from newly engaged to the moment you leave as a married couple. The Cosener’s House is licensed for indoor civil ceremonies. Panoramic gardens overlook the River Thames paired with traditional rooms to hold your wedding celebrations. More at The Cosener’s House.
Cogges Manor Farm, Witney
The 17 acres of Cogges Manor Farm provide many charming locations for your photographs – the Manor House lawn, the ever-changing walled garden and the orchard. You’ll enjoy sole use of the two barns plus an area for a fire pit or garden games and shelter too. Both are licensed for civil ceremonies and are next door to St Mary’s Church. Cogges gives you the flexibility to dress and furnish the barns as you wish, and to decide on your own caterers, musicians and other suppliers with Cogges help to your own, truly bespoke wedding, Cogges.
The Post, Newbury
The Post is a beautifully modern take on a countryside wedding venue. The English oak barn brings together contemporary architecture and bespoke design to create a wedding that reflects you and your vision, whether it’s a grand outdoor affair with dramatic sliding doors or an intimate candle-lit ceremony beneath the oak beams. The luxurious bridal pamper room is available for you and your bridal party to enjoy precious time together as you prepare for your big day. The dedicated wedding team will be on hand while your partner and guests are getting ready at the hotel. Visit thepostbarn.co.uk.
Picture: Chris Kemp Photography
Ufton Court, Ufton Nervet
Ufton Court is a charming and historic Tithe Barn and Grade I Listed Manor House wedding venue. The 16th Century timber-framed Tithe Barn provides the perfect blank canvas for your wedding celebrations. From the breath-taking driveway, perfectly manicured courtyard, traditional white walls and flagstone floors of the Tithe Barn to the historic Manor House and the grounds beyond. Whether you are looking for a cosy winter wedding with an open fire and blankets or a summer wedding with drinks on the terrace and garden games, Ufton Court is at your disposal. Additionally by holding your wedding at Ufton Court you will be directly helping the onsite children’s charity which supports hundreds of children and their families. Discover it for yourself at uftonweddings.co.uk.
Picture: Benjamin Stuart Photography
Elcot Park, Newbury
Recently named as Britain’s Best Hotel by The Times, The Retreat at Elcot Park between Newbury and Hungerford is a perfect wedding venue. A reimagined Georgian country house, The Retreat has beautiful private spaces, 55 individually-styled bedrooms, two stunning restaurants and an indulgent spa, all surrounded by glorious Berkshire countryside. A dedicated events team will help you plan your wedding, your way. Visit www.retreatelcotpark.com.
Notley Abbey, thame
Boasting a rich history of royalty and Hollywood celebrity, it now serves as an incredible exclusive venue that is unlike any other around. Choose from The Abbot’s Hall or The Monks’ Refectory to exchange your vows, both showcasing stunning architectural highlights. Why not tie the knot outside in the idyllic sun trap that is the Walled garden? More at Notley Abbey.
The Swan At Streatley
The Aviary is the stunning setting for your special day at The Swan, from your ceremony for up to 120 of your family and friends to your reception for as many as 200 in the evening. Chefs have created a selection of menus for you to dine on for the wedding breakfast and at the end of your special day enjoy the night in a complimentary River Suite – six bedrooms will also be reserved for your nearest and dearest while you’ll also get a unique code for your guests to book online too.
Leander Club, Henley
Many wedding parties for the elegant Edwardian venue choose to arrive at Leander either by boat or on foot – it’s just a short walk over the bridge from Henley. Enjoy photographs on the lawn or landing stage before your wedding breakfast in the stylish dining room adorned with artworks and painted oars. Dance the night away with family and friends before a fabulous fireworks display to round off your special day.
Stanlake Park & Vineyard, Charvil
One for wine lovers – you’re sure of a divine experience in the vineyard at Stanlake Park to toast your sparkling day. The picturesque venue is set in 150 acres of gorgeous grounds, with a tree-lined driveway. Vintage barns have been restored to conjure up an idyllic location and there’s a variety of settings to say I do, hold drinks receptions and play lawn games. Stanlake Park guarantees you beautiful photographs at any time of year.
Badgemore Park, Henley
From the moment you arrive at Badgemore Park, you’ll know this is the place for you. From major corporate events to weddings, private parties and celebrations – the opportunities are endless with the choice of three stunning settings: The Coach house, The Fairway and a beautiful, covered Courtyard. Talk to the team to make your event memorable, and perfect in every way. More at badgemorepark.com.
Stokes Farm Barn, Wokingham
The picturesque family-run Stokes Farm Barn is a rustic wedding venue full of character and licensed for civil ceremonies. The main barn is a bright space with floor to ceiling windows and beams. Enjoy drinks and canapes on the lawn and patio and the balcony bar presents the opportunity to watch those strutting their stuff overlooking the dance floor.
Monkey Island Estate, Taplow
The centuries-old retreat hidden alongside the River Thames offers the perfect setting. Picturesque and private, you’ll create unforgettable and precious memories. Whether you are looking to hold a dream countryside wedding with a marquee on the lawns, an intimate ceremony and dinner party or an elegant wedding in the stately ballroom, Monkey Island Estate can cater for everyone.
Wasing Park, Aldermaston
Located in the rural village of Aldermaston, Wasing Park is a luxury wedding venue set in stunning 18th-century parkland with historical buildings. The wonderful wedding venue boasts a stunning Victorian Summerhouse, a Castle Barn and the spectacular Stables Lodge. Located in the Terrace Garden, the Victorian summerhouse is traditionally built with wooden seating to all sides, often used for the ceremony in spring and summer. The interior has a hand-painted mural – a stunning photo backdrop.
Combe Manor Barn, Hungerford
The country house was listed in the Domesday Book in 1086 so getting married here assures your day will become part of history. The venue is licensed to hold civil ceremonies and for those wanting a church service, there is a beautiful 12th century church just yards from the barns. Only one wedding a week is hosted giving you access to the barns from the Wednesday prior to your special day. They have a list of excellent suppliers for your catering and floristry who are both local and have worked at Combe successful in the past. Other features included in the hire are a beautiful bridal bedroom with en suite bathroom for the day and much more. See more at Combe Manor.
Chalk Barn, Rushall Near Pewsey
A wedding at Chalk Barn is a truly exceptional experience. The day before your wedding is included as standard whether you have a hands on approach or a team to help you set up, the barn is yours for the day to decorate, dress, and perfect. Say I do in the barn or on the infinity lawn, the Wiltshire countryside is your backdrop. From a rustic feast to a refined banquet, artisan producers can help create a menu perfect for your day. And after you’ve celebrated, spend the night in The Hide.
Rockley Manor, Marlborough
Usually a private residence, the Grade II listed manor invites you to host your wedding day in the stunning grounds and house. You will have exclusive use of the grand 18th century manor and gardens to create a romantic and tranquil setting. The dedicated and experienced team’s attention to detail makes no aspect of your wedding too big or too small, leaving you with peace of mind, and your guests wowed at the how perfectly the day has run. Wedding breakfasts are held in the impressive Baronial Hall, while the courtyard and Park make the perfect backdrop for your wedding photos. Find more Rockley Manor Wedding Venue.
Templars Weddings, Hungerford
Templars is still a working farm today so perfect for a rustic yet elegant special occasion. Land owner Charles Perry rebuilt Templars Barn in 1998. The entire barn is seven bays long and you’ll notice the roof is a shade of pink because it reminded Mr Perry of the family holidays in the south of France. The property also comes with ample parking and a paddock for outdoor drinks and activities. Discover more at Templars Weddings.
Surrey & Hampshire Venues
Farnham Castle
Farnham Castle is a stunning historic, multi-award-winning venue for weddings, overlooking the historic, market town of Farnham, on the Surrey/Hampshire border. It is the perfect choice for your wedding, from ceremony, to reception, to party… and after the party you can relax overnight in the Guildford Honeymoon Suite, and for your guests, 33 guest bedrooms await. However you want to celebrate, the experienced team of Wedding Specialists will ensure that your wedding is managed to perfection. www.farnhamcastle.com | [email protected] | 01252 720402.
Picture: Harry Michael Photography
Painshill, Cobham
Painshill is a beautiful 18th century landscape full of picturesque garden buildings and stunning views. They are licensed to host ceremonies within the Gothic Temple, a romantic folly with an incredible backdrop. Couples can then take advantage of wonderful photo opportunities around the landscape at beautiful locations, featured in Married At First Sight and Bridgerton, including the sparking Crystal Grotto. Contact them today at painshill.co.uk to book an appointment to experience the views for yourself.
Credit: Married at First Sight UK
Gorse Hill, Woking
The Edwardian mansion sits in 17 acres offering oodles of photo opportunities for your bridal party while guests enjoy a drinks reception on the lawns. The Garden Suite Ballroom is available for seated wedding breakfasts and evening receptions. A private balcony overlooks the gardens from the honeymoon suite and with 67 rooms there is ample accommodation for guests too. More at Gorse Hill | Woking.
Great Fosters, Egham
The five-star hotel is set amongst 50 acres of stunning formal gardens and is licensed for civil ceremonies for up to 180 guests. The Tithe bar is a charming location for the wedding breakfast and up to 220 guests for an evening reception. Smaller celebrations can be held in The Orangery. The hotel’s gardens, with a Japanese bridge, lake, fountain and and Saxon moat, provide an idyllic backdrop. Find more at Great Fosters Hotel.
Pennyhill Park, Camberley
Exchange your vows in the Terrace Pavilion surrounded by 120 acres of stunning countryside and then head to the lily pond for unforgettable memories and photos you’ll treasure. Indoor ceremonies will be against the backdrop of the Library with vintage fireplaces and large windows offering views of the grounds. Handcrafted chandeliers add an elegant touch to the banquet hall where you’ll enjoy award-winning cuisine. Find out more The Pennyhill Park Hotel.
Coverwood Lakes, Gardens & Farm, Cranleigh
Those looking for less formal and ‘traditional’ style weddings will be intrigued by this unique venue which hosts tipi weddings amid 225 impressive acres of landscaped gardens and lakes. Only a limited number of weddings are held here each year so your lakeside setting is sure to be even more memorable for you and your guests in marquees and tipis on the lawns – perfect for your special day whether a traditional wedding, more bohemian or rustic.
Worplesdon Place, Guildford
The 19th-century manor house is located within two acres of landscaped gardens overlooking the swan lake. It can comfortably host up to 50 seated guests or 80 guests for an evening celebration and features a DJ and buffet space. An on-site event coordinator will assist with planning and additional amenities and facilities are available to you and guests.
High Billinghurst Farm, Guildford
The enchanting and romantic venue showcases the Hay Barn with large inglenook fireplace, bar and dancefloor for up to 150, with the interlinking Elizabethan Barns providing the perfect space for receptions, ceremonies and blessings. There is ample space for marquees, tipis or stretch tents if required and an area that can be used for glamping with toilet pavilion and showers.
Lythe Hill Hotel, Haslemere
Want your wedding to be part of history? Then how about a 16th century Tudor House for the venue overlooking a lake with breath-taking views of the South Downs. The combination of old-world charm and contemporary decor is sure to appeal with a sky view lantern roof and exposed beams while in the summer what could be better than the outdoor gazebo to say ‘I do’.
Gate Street Barn, Guildford
This family-run property is a working farm complete with cattle and pigs and is available to host weddings all year round. Get back to nature with a ceremony in The Barn or perhaps you want to tiptoe through the bluebell-lined paths for a fairytale blessing in the woods. If you decide to tie the knot in autumn or winter, wood-burning stoves will add to the magic of the day. Beautiful onsite accommodations can sleep up to 28 guests with the happy couple often opting for the seclusion of The Hayloft. Find more at Gate Street Barn.
Froyle Park, Alton
Jacobean features, a grand staircase and ornate fireplaces will greet you and your guests here for a ceremony that can host up to 300. A choice of ceremony venues is available depending on your requirements but you’re guaranteed to fall in love with whichever you choose. Luxurious en-suite bedrooms will welcome guests after a hard day’s celebrating. Discover more at Froyle Park Harbour Hotels.
The Anchor Inn, Alton
Fully licensed to host civil ceremonies, the country pub wedding venue offers a choice of private indoor and outdoor spaces of which the State Room takes pride of place. Full of charm and tradition, The Anchor Inn is the ideal venue for those looking for an intimate ceremony, larger parties can wine and dine in the rustic-style restaurant. The courtyard garden offers space to gather outside on warmer evenings.
Departure Lounge Café, Alton
The vintage decoration will impress those looking for an alternative wedding reception venue but will also provide everything you’re looking for from your special day in this unique countryside location. Catering for up to 150 guests in the café, marquee and gardens, the Departure Lounge is fully licensed and offers an afternoon tea option, buffet menu or hog roast. There is an area ideal for a live band or disco and the premises can be decorated to your taste.
Gilbert White’s House, Selborne
Enjoy your day in the 16th century Hampshire Barn, with glorious views over meadows, or for a more intimate ceremony and reception, the historic house and White’s Bistro. The Great Mead affords a charming location for an outdoor reception whether this is a marquee, teepee or bell tent you will be surrounded by stunning views in this location that allows you to celebrate your wedding, your way. Couples also have the opportunity to work with Gilbert White’s Brewery, to make their own loving brew for their special day. The venue is pet-friendly too, allowing your furry friends to share in your day.
The Welldiggers Arms, Petworth
The authentically British pub boasts intimate rooms and a delightful alfresco dining area with space for up to 120 guests using indoor and outdoor areas. The cottage style garden is ideal for summer celebrations while in winter it is heated and weatherproof with fur blankets on the furniture to keep you cosy. Embracing all that epitomises the country pub with local real ales and traditional British cuisine, a dedicated event team will be on hand to help you with every aspect and at the end of the day, one of the 14 en-suite rooms awaits. Find more at The Welldiggers Arms.
Cowdray Walled Garden, Midhurst
A hidden gem of a venue set against the astounding backdrop of Cowdray Ruins in the heart of the South Downs. Licensed for both indoor and outdoor ceremonies, up to 100 guests can be seated for the big moment in either the Castle Room which looks out over the ruins and the Courtyard with exposed stone walls which allow an opportunity to bring the outside in. The Walled Garden work with a selection of carefully chosen caterers with a strong emphasis on sustainability.
The Lismoyne Hotel, Fleet
A tree-lined driveway leads to this stunning property, complemented by beautiful English gardens and overlooked by a 300-year-old sequoia tree. The property is licensed for ceremonies in two banqueting rooms, conservatory or outside in the gazebo. This memorable location is perfect for both large and more intimate weddings, offering a perfect backdrop for your very special day. Explore more at Weddings | Hotel Wedding Packages Hampshire.
The Elvetham, Hartney Wintney
Original feature fireplaces, rich oak walls and spectacular views of perfectly manicured gardens create the perfect backdrop for your wedding. Choose from the Oak Room (up to 120 guests), the Morning Room (up to 50 guests) or an outdoor ceremony under the arches of the original Victorian summerhouse. Larger parties can then dine and toast the happy couple in the Grand Library whose walls are adorned with literature. Thirty five acres of gardens will provide you with so many photo backdrops you’ll be spoilt for choice. Find more at The Elvetham Hotel.
Lythe Hill Hotel, Haslemere
Want your wedding to be part of history? Then how about a 16th century Tudor House for the venue overlooking a lake with breath-taking views of the South Downs. The combination of old-world charm and contemporary decor is sure to appeal with a sky view lantern roof and exposed beams while in the summer what could be better than the outdoor gazebo to say ‘I do’. Explore more at Weddings – Lythe Hill.
Celebrate the great outdoors with exhilarating stories and intrepid characters as the Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour returns for 2020.
The tour features two different collections of films from the world’s best film makers, with super-human challenges, inspiring journeys and stunning cinematography from the four corners of the globe.
The tour’s films are chosen from hundreds of entries into the Banff Mountain Film Festival, which is held every November in the Canadian Rockies. The UK and Ireland tour visits 60 locations along the way. As well as thrilling films, each event features a free prize draw for exciting outdoorsy goodies from the tour partners.
UK tour director Neil Teasdale said: “We can’t wait to share the latest inspirational films from the world’s most prestigious mountain film festival on our biggest tour yet.
“As well as exhilarating stories starring intrepid characters and pioneering journeys, an evening at Banff is a celebration of the great outdoors, with a vibrant atmosphere and a real sense of community. And we guarantee audiences will leave inspired to have an adventure of their own.”
For more information about the films and to book tickets visit www.banff-uk.com
The tour comes to Oxford’s New Theatre on28th January; The Hexagon, Reading on 29th January and 18th March; Abingdon’s Amey Theatre on 5th February; Wycombe Swan, High Wycombe on 11th February; Cheltenham’s Town Hall on 12th February and 28th April; Wyvern Theatre, Swindon on 19th February
Oxford, Reading (29th Jan),High Wycombe, Swindon and Cheltenham (12th Feb) are showing the ‘red’ series of films – Charge, Danny Day Care, The Flip, Home, Up to Speed, The Imaginary Line, The Ladakh Project and Thabang
Abingdon, Reading (18th March) and Cheltenham (28th April) are screening the ‘blue’ series of films – A Nordic Skater, Return to Earth, The High Road, Spectre Expedition – Mission Antarctica, The Frenchy, The Long Rover Home and The Running Pastor
People in the Thames Valley can now find more than 100 research studies taking place in the NHS, public health and social care using a new interactive online map.
The map, at thamesvalleyresearch.nihr.ac.uk, features pins that show where studies are taking place at locations including hospitals, GP surgeries and care homes.
Users click on the pin to browse studies at that location. They can also search all studies in Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Milton Keynes and Oxfordshire by medical speciality, location, keyword (for example diabetes), postcode and study name.
After finding a study they are interested in, users visit a webpage for more information including a summary of the study, health inclusion and exclusion criteria and contact details.
The website lists studies supported by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Clinical Research Network Thames Valley and South Midlands.
Prof Belinda Lennox, Clinical Director for the NIHR Clinical Research Network Thames Valley and South Midlands, said: “Health research is vital for developing new treatments in the NHS and improving the quality of the care that we provide.
“We rely on the public to take part in this research, which can range from filling out a questionnaire or giving a blood sample to trialling a new medication or treatment.
“This map provides people with the opportunity to actively seek out studies that they could take part in.”
Participating in health research helps develop new treatments, improves the NHS, public health and social care services and save lives.
Studies are offered to NHS patients that are relevant to their condition. Healthy people can also take part so results can be compared to those with a condition.
We rely on the public to take part in this research
The diversity of technology and brilliant businesses in the region has been celebrated at the Thames Valley Tech Awards 2019.
The second annual awards evening honoured the top tech businesses in a dozen categories with finalists ranging from start ups to well-established firms.
Around 370 finalists and guests attended the awards at the Royal Berkshire Conference Centre at Reading’s Madejski Stadium on 19th September, hosted by Tomorrow’s World’s Kate Bellingham.
The winner of the overall Thames Valley Tech Company for 2019 was Reading-based ESP Global Services. The company uses its own bespoke solutions and off-the-shelf software to provide a client-focused service. Judges praised the regional operations centres and its focus on employee wellbeing calling the company “a worthy winner”.
CEO Andy Jenner said: “Absolutely over the moon to win. Darren Richardson, who set up the business with Mike Harling 27 years ago, sadly passed away last year from cancer. It devastated the company. This award is a real testament to Darren’s drive, ambition and achievements. He would be smiling knowing we have won. We see ESP as a family and have been fortunate in creating a family of 422 people in Reading and across the globe.”
Picture credit: Dijana Capan, DVision Images
Picture caption: Organisers Marc Allridge and Hilary Scott
Nominate your favourites for 2019 Thames Valley Hospitality Awards.
The 2019 Thames Valley Hospitality Awards are open for nominations celebrating excellence and outstanding staff in the sector.From hotels to B&Bs, bars to restaurants, it’s time to share who you think deserves to be honoured.
In addition to last year’s categories, there are three new ones – Achiever of the Year, Wedding Venue of the Year and Outside Caterer of the Year.This is the second year of the awards and the organisers are delighted to be building on the success of last year.
Co-organiser Marc Allridge of Cherubs Floral Design said they were very excited about the new categories. He added: “We would love people from managers to brides to nominate in the Wedding Venue of the Year category. And we want to hear form all those caterers who work away behind the scenes and often don’t get recognised for their efforts – winning Outside Caterer of the Year would fix that.
“We also want to see lots of entries in Achiever of the Year – this is for a youngster who has overcome physical or mental issues to shine in the trade.”
The gala awards dinner this year is being held at the De Vere Wokefield Estate on Sunday, 28th April and hosted by leading chef Daniel Galmiche.Fellow organiser Hilary Scott encouraged entries for this year, saying: “We had so many entries in our first year it was amazing. I hope that we can get more this year now we are a bit better known. And remember if you missed out last year you can enter again.”
This year’s categories are:
Hotel of the Year sponsored by TVHA
Independent Hotel of Year sponsored by Newsquest Berkshire
Bar of the Year sponsor Matthew Clark
Restaurant of the Year
Hotel Manager of the Year sponsored by Cream Design
Front of house star sponsored by H&D Food Solutions
Back of house star sponsored by Cherubs Floral Design
Warm welcome
Best breakfast
Apprentice of the Year
Three new categories for 2019:
Achiever of the Year – a youngster who has overcome physical or mental issues to shine
Wedding Venue of the Year – in a competitive market who stands out for their venue, service and professionalism
Outside Caterer of the Year – in a growing market, we want to find the best
For full details and to nominate visit www.tvhawards.co.ukand don’t forget to share with us who you are nominating and why!
For full details and to nominate visit