Shows
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS16 Ep 5 Review of the Year 2025Celebrate the best of our community with the RG10 Podcast’s special year-in-review episode! We look back at the moments that made 2025 unforgettable — from powerful stories of recovery at Yeldall Manor, to the incredible resilience of GB duathlete Tamina Oliver, to the quirky joy of the Wargrave & Shiplake Regatta and Twyford’s Donkey Derby.We also shine a spotlight on local creativity through RISE at Henley Festival and the Henley Arts Trail — and explore how residents are protecting our rivers and coming together for sustainability through People, Planet, Pint.It’s heartfelt, it’s uplifting, and it’s packed with the voice...
2025-12-2913 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS16 Ep 3 - Reading Rooks KorfballIn this episode of the RG10 Podcast, we hear from Austin and Josie from the Sonning based Reading Rooks Korfball Club to explore one of the UK’s most unique and fast-growing mixed-gender sports.What is korfball? How is it played? Why is it so inclusive? And how did Reading Rooks become one of the most vibrant community clubs in the region?Austin and Josie share:• How korfball blends elements of netball and basketball• What makes it the world’s only truly mixed-gender team sport• Why so many players discover the sport at univers...
2025-12-0112 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS15 Ep 6 - A decade of giving: The Chemogiftbags journeyIn this episode of the RG10 Podcast, we sit down with Lynne Shipton, founder of Chemogiftbags, a charity providing free, thoughtfully prepared bags filled with practical items and comforts for people starting chemotherapy.What began in 2015 as a simple idea has grown into a lifeline for patients across the Thames Valley. Now, in 2025, Chemogiftbags is celebrating its 10th anniversary – a decade of comfort, kindness, and community.Lynne shares the moving story of how the charity began, the difference it makes for those receiving treatment, and why this anniversary year is such an important milestone. We al...
2025-09-1014 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS15 Ep 4 - The Loddon and us: A river worth fighting forIn this episode of The RG10 Podcast, we shine a light on the River Loddon — one of our area's most fascinating and fragile natural features.Ben speaks with Josh Bowes, local conservationist and river expert. A Catchment Officer with the South East Rivers Trust, Josh tells us what makes the Loddon so unique as a chalk stream, why it's under threat, and what’s being done to protect it. From sewage overflows and invasive species to rare native crayfish and the iconic Loddon lily, we explore the river’s challenges and its hidden wonders.We also l...
2025-08-1311 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS14 Ep 6 - Henley Arts Trail 2025In this episode of The RG10 Podcast, ceramicist Emma Payne talks about the Henley Arts Trail, which will mark its 20th anniversary over the May bank holiday weekend this year.The trail is a community event across Henley-on-Thames and surrounding villages, involving 280 artists in over 30 venues, opening their studios or holding joint exhibitions to showcase their work to the public. Emma discusses the growth of the event now spearheaded by Wendy Penrose and powered by social media. Venues include a diverse range of locations including wineries and members' clubs. The conversation covers the si...
2025-04-1609 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS14 Ep 2 - From Dance to Duathlons: The Amazing Tale of a World Class AthleteThis episode of the RG10 Podcast, explores the life and achievements of Tamina Oliver, an extraordinary single mum and world-class duathlete from Twyford. Tamina balances training for international championships with raising her young son and working full-time. Tamina talks about her unexpected journey from Cuban dance to competitive cycling, and how she stumbled upon her talent for running. Tamina opens up about the highs and lows, including a freak injury that almost derailed her dreams, and the financial challenges she faces in the sport. Listeners will also learn how they can support Tamina as she gears up for her...
2025-02-2012 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS14 Ep1 - Running with kangaroos and Crocs (the shoes) - An epic Australian adventureIn this episode of the RG10 podcast, we get a final update on the incredible journey of local adventurers Joshua Smith and Jack Pitcher, who undertook the challenge of running 4,340 kilometers across Australia to raise funds for Arc, a Wokingham-based charity. Despite facing numerous challenges, including accidents, breakdowns, and extreme heat, the they completed the run in 61 days—16 days faster than any Brit had ever done it. Jack gives a detailed account of their experience, highlighting Joshua's struggle with severe cramps which led him to finish the journey on a bike, and recounting his own battle with ext...
2025-02-0510 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS13 Ep 6 - Highlights of 2024: Adventures, Achievements, and Community SpiritIn the final episode of season 13 and the last of 2024, the RG10 podcast revisits the year's most memorable moments. From the inaugural Great RG10 Quiz and Team Excelsior's epic rowing adventure, to Twyford Tennis Club's community success and Elowyn Mears' remarkable swimming achievements, the episode celebrates the highlights. Also featured is the record-breaking 4,000 km run across Australia by Joshua Smith and Jack Pitcher. Join us as we reminisce on a year full of extraordinary stories and incredible people.Sponsorship opportunity: Raise awareness of your business with the RG10 Podcast audience by sponsoring an episode or a series.
2024-12-1107 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS13 Ep 4 - Wargrave Youth TheatreIn this episode, Ben sits down with Chez Annetts, founding member and director of Wargrave Youth Theatre, to discuss the remarkable story of a youth drama group that began with a handful of 11-year-olds back in 1989. Originally called Wargrave Entertainment Drama Group Enterprise, or WEDGE, the group has evolved into a highly popular community youth theatre, now known as Wargrave Youth Theatre.Chez shares some hilarious memories from early productions, including mishaps on stage, and offers insights into the challenges of running a volunteer-led theatre group with limited resources. She describes the group’s latest production, The Be...
2024-11-1308 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS13 Ep 3 - RG10 on film and TVWelcome to a special edition of the RG10 podcast, packed with glitz, glamour, and a dash of cinematic history! In this episode, we explore the fascinating ties between the world of film and TV and the RG10 area. From the early days of cinema to modern productions such as Lovejoy and Midsomer Murders, we uncover local gems that made it onto the big screen.Travel back to 1899, when the mysterious silent film 'Wargrave' graced the silver screen. Discover Dennis Price, Ruscombe’s very own film star, and revisit iconic moments like Nightmare (1964) and Porridge (1979) that spotlight Wargrave st...
2024-10-3010 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS13 Ep 2 - Against all odds: a 4,000km run across AustraliaSeason 13, episode 2, launched October 2024.In this episode of the RG10 podcast, we hear from two local adventurers, Joshua Smith and Jack Pitcher, who are in the middle of an epic challenge: running 4,000 kilometres across Australia to raise money for ARC, a Wokingham-based charity providing counselling services. Josh and Jack share their extraordinary journey, which has been filled with accidents, breakdowns, and extreme heat, pushing them both physically and mentally. Despite setbacks, the pair are determined to break the record for the fastest run by a Brit (or Brits!) across Australia. Tune in to hear their...
2024-10-1613 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS13 Ep 1 - The Saint of Twyford? Edward Polehampton and the Polehampton CharityIn this episode of the RG10 Podcast, we explore the remarkable story of Edward Polehampton and the enduring legacy of his charity in Twyford. Born in 1666, an act of kindness towards the young boy evolved into a philanthropic trust benefiting the local community for centuries. The podcast hears from James Fort, a local historian and trustee of the Polehampton Charity, to uncover its history, from its foundations to its continued support for education, housing, and those in need. Hear how the charity, now worth millions, provides essential grants for families struggling with rising living costs, and how it...
2024-10-0409 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS12 Ep 6 - Woodley to Paris: A 12 year-old's incredible cycling journeyIn this episode of The RG10 Podcast, we dive into the incredible journey of Dexter Rosier, a 12-year-old with a remarkable challenge ahead. Dexter is setting off on an epic 231-mile bike ride from Woodley to Paris, aiming to reach the French capital just in time for the opening of the Paralympic Games. He's not only testing his limits but also raising £10,000 for three deserving charities: Sport In Mind, WheelPower, and Fanconi Hope.Join us as we explore Dexter's ambitious plan and the rigorous training he's undergone, including overcoming the painful realities of long-distance cycling. Dexter shares h...
2024-08-0709 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS12 Ep 5 - Breaking Boundaries: The Rise of Thames Fusion Girls' CricketIn this inspiring episode, we delve into the world of women’s cricket with a special focus on the Thames Fusion team. We discuss the unique challenges young female cricketers face, including the competition with other sports and limited playing opportunities. Discover how the Thames Fusion initiative, born from a collaboration between Sonning Cricket Club, Reading Cricket Club, and Wargrave Cricket Club, is changing the landscape for girls in cricket.We hear from Ally Holloway, one of the key figures behind Thames Fusion, who shares the chaotic yet rewarding journey of creating more opportunities for young girls to...
2024-07-2408 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS12 Ep 4 - What Was Twyford Like 50 Years Ago?Welcome to the RG10 podcast! In this episode, we delve into some surprising events of the past and the present in Twyford. We start with reports of recent vandalism targeting public property and a tree planting project. However, you might be surprised to learn that these issues aren't new.We're taking a trip back to 1974, exploring the first-ever edition of the Twyford Parish Newsletter. Unearthed from the archives of the revamped Twyford library, these newsletters give us a fascinating glimpse into Twyford's history, highlighting recurring issues such as vandalism, public behaviour, and community efforts.Join...
2024-07-1008 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS12 Ep 3 - The High Sheriff of BerkshireIn this episode as we dive into the fascinating history and contemporary duties of the High Sheriff of Berkshire. Our guest, Alexander Barfield, is the 809th person to fill the post and he shares the rich history of the role, dating back to Anglo-Saxon times, and its evolution from a powerful position involved in tax collection and law enforcement to its current, largely ceremonial nature.Alexander discusses his responsibilities, which include working with the judiciary, prisons, probation services, the voluntary sector, and emergency services. He details the various ceremonial duties such as police awards, fire service graduations...
2024-06-2610 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS12 Ep 2 - Wargrave Festival Turns to GoldIt's festival season in RG10! Fresh off the Wargrave Beer Festival and Twyford Beer Festival, we’re gearing up for the big one: the Biennial Wargrave Festival, running from June 12th to June 30th. This year marks the festival's 50th anniversary, and the theme is "Gold Fever." Join us as we dive into the highlights of this 19-day extravaganza, featuring family delights, dazzling events, spirited performances, culinary treats, a sporting extravaganza, and the traditional Wargrave Festival parade.We chat with Graham Howe and Catherine Lamb from the organising committee. Graham shares his journey from joining the committee in...
2024-06-1213 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS12 Ep 1 - Twyford Tennis ClubWelcome to Season 12 of the RG10 Podcast! Summer's here, and we're kicking off with some tennis talk. Specifically, Twyford Tennis Club. On 1 June 2024, they're launching a crowdfunding campaign to modernise their facilities. Head Coach Gary Oates and Ladies' Captain Louise Tippey discuss the urgent need for a new court and upgraded floodlights. With only three courts and growing demand, the club struggles to accommodate everyone. Learn how this club is striving to be inclusive and accessible for all the community. For more information about Twyford Tennis Club and its crowdfunder, visit thes...
2024-05-2908 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS11 Ep 5 - Twyford Together Community Awards 2024It's not the Oscars but it's a close second...it's Twyford Together Community Awards 2024!The prizes for those individuals, groups and businesses who go the extra mile were handed out on Monday March the 18th.Categories included:Business of the Year (award sponsored by Grapevine Estate Agents)Food and Drink Award (award sponsored by Benedict Charles Financial Planning)Young Achiever of the Year (award sponsored by Ideal Branding)Community Group of the Year (award sponsored by Goodall-Smith Wealth Management)Teacher of the Year (award sponsored by Rural Pie Co.)Charity of t...
2024-03-1909 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS11 Ep 4 - 3 Women Went to Row (The Atlantic Ocean)Courageous. Foolhardy. Salty.That's how Caroline Hague, Nicki Kelly and Rachel Smillie (AKA Team Excelsioar) describe themselves.Based out of Eton and sponsored by Val Wyatt Marine in Wargrave, the trio have taken on the 'World's Toughest Row', a 3000 miles journey from San Sebastian in La Gomera, Canary Islands, Spain (28 ‘N 18 ‘W) to Nelson’s Dockyard, English Harbour, Antigua and Barbuda (17 ‘N 61 ‘W).On the 11th February 2024, after 60 days, 13 hours, 32 minutes, they docked in Antigua and the celebrations could begin.In this episode of the RG10 podcast you will hear from Rachel Smillie, s...
2024-03-0416 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS11 Ep 3 - Footprints Baby LossThis episode of The RG10 podcast is about a new charity run by bereaved parents for bereaved parents. It's called Footprint Baby Loss and it provides support for families who've lost one or more of their twins and triplets before, during or after birth.The charity has been co-founded by Suzie Scofield from Wargrave and Sharon Darke from Banbury. They met 11 years ago after Suzie lost her twins, Rory and Daniel. Sharon herself had lost twin boys - Charlie and Joshua - and she gave Suzie vital peer support.The discussion delves into the unique su...
2024-02-1917 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS11 Ep 2 - The Great RG10 Quiz: Answers!It's the question everyone has been asking - what are the answers to The Great RG10 Quiz? Well, the wait is over. The quiz comprised 10 multiple-choice questions all tied to local life. A few hints:Celebrity encounters outside WaitroseGardening tips from Big Plant NurseryMystery tipples at Stanlake Park Wine EstateGhost stories in WargraveFit20 gym in Twyford and their fitness USP.Vets Klinic (in Woodley) and a pet food head scratcher.A Chinese medicine question from Charvil based charity 'My Cancer My Choices' Lake names at Charvil Country Park, Wargrave's Camp Mohawk Fake bands at the Twyford Beer F...
2024-02-0709 minThe RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS11 Ep 1 - The Great RG10 Quiz!Welcome to Season 11 of the RG10 podcast! We're kicking off 2024 with the first-ever RG10 podcast quiz. There are 10 multiple-choice questions linked to life around here, with questions from local guests stars! Share your efforts via email or social media.Email: therg10podcast@gmail.comSocial Media: DM us on:https://www.instagram.com/rg10mag/https://www.linkedin.com/company/rg10-marketing/https://www.facebook.com/RG10magContributors include:Fit20 in TwyfordVets Klinic in WoodleyThe Big Plant NurseryMy Cancer My Choices...
2024-01-2410 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS10 Ep7 - Sue Ryder Grief Kind Space in Hare HatchThe Sue Ryder charity is dedicated to the relief of suffering. Most people know that they ensure anyone approaching the end of their life can access the palliative care and other support they need. The charity is also there for people living with grief so that they don't feel alone, and to help their loved ones to know how to be 'Grief Kind'. Their latest initiative is to open Sue Ryder Grief Kind Spaces around the country. These are weekly drop-in sessions run by trained volunteers providing a safe, informal and supportive place in the local community t...
2023-12-0607 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS10 Ep6 - My Cancer My Choices: local charity receives royal approvalThis episode of the RG10 Podcast traces the inspiring journey of My Cancer, My Choices, a Charvil-based charity making a difference in the lives of those battling cancer. It has recently been handed the King's Award for Voluntary Services, the equivalent to an MBE for charities.The episode looks at the profound impact of complementary therapies provided by the charity to cancer patients, offering a glimpse into the calm and caring environment they create.Co-founder Mandy Barter shares her personal experience with cancer and how it led to the establishment of My Cancer, M...
2023-11-2208 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS10 Ep5 - From the Back of an Ambulance to Becoming an 'Ironman'A couple of weeks ago, Ellie Barnes (the name behind the company that helps organise the Twyford Fun Run and other events) completed the Ironman Portugal triathlon. That's 2.4 miles of swimming, 112 miles of biking, then a FULL marathon.Not only that, she managed to qualify for the Ironman World Championships 2024.She is also a mum of three holding down a full time job.All of this just weeks after collapsing at another event and being taken off in an ambulance with heat exhaustion.Do you want to know the details behind this tale of triumph...
2023-11-0814 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS10 Ep4 - Toys and Teens Appeal, a present for every deprived child in Reading“I've been to places where they've got absolutely nothing in their house or their flat. No carpets on the floor, no curtains on the window, no furniture. I went to one place and the little boy all he had was a cardboard box to play with. The kids don't have any other clothes other than what they go to school in, they just sleep in those. It’s happening here in Reading today and it's very scary.”Ruth Perkins is fundraising manager for Reading Family Aid. Every year the organisation has an annual toy appeal asking people in the...
2023-10-1908 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS10 Ep3 - Who are Sax Bandits?In the early 1840s, a Belgian called Adolphe Sax invented a new musical instrument and decided to name it after himself. Ignoring the opportunity to go with the ‘Adolphophone’ our hero decided he would use his surname instead and thus the saxophone was born. By the way, this was not the only example of Adolphe’s self-reverential instrument naming. He also invented the saxotromba, saxhorn and saxtuba. Nearly 200 years later, Adolphe’s work lives on in our area. The Sax Bandits are an all-saxophone band for all ages and abilities – even beginners – with sessions in Charvil Village Hall and...
2023-10-0411 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS10 Ep2 - Sex (and monkeys) sells tickets at Twyford DramaFrom the 5th to the 7th of October, Twyford Drama are putting on a pair of one act plays that could not be more different. 'The Monkey's Paw' is a supernatural tale, with the perils of ambition at its heart. In this chiller, a family is granted three wishes, all of which come true but in a macabre and unexpected way.Then there is 'Little Grimley Presents... Strictly Sex Factor On Ice.' It's a comedy all about getting bums back on seats for a local am dram theatre company where their numbers have dwindled. Wi...
2023-09-2010 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS10 Ep1 - Rock 'n Roll and RG10, The Beatles, Bowie, Led Zeppelin etcThere are a small group of places that are synonymous with history of rock and roll. Woodstock, Glastonbury, Strawberry Fields - and, of course, RG10. In this episode we uncover Twyford, Wargrave and Sonning’s links to the royalty of rock and roll. Here are just a few of the names that come up:Paul McCartney and The BeatlesDavid BowieLed Zeppelin and Jimmy PageFrank. SinatraThe Beach BoysCliff RichardNat ‘King’ ColeCliff RichardThe ShadowsMark BolanSparksThin Lizzy
2023-09-0609 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS9 Ep 6 - Camp MohawkWhat is Camp Mohawk? You may well have asked yourself that question if you have seen the signs in Wargrave pointing up towards Bowsey Woods.Essentially, Camp Mohawk is a place for children and young people with special needs in Berkshire and beyond. It also provides support for parents and families.In this episode of the RG10 Podcast you will find the answers to these questions:- How does Camp Mohawk help children with learning difficulties and SEN?- How does Camp Mohawk help parents and families?- What...
2023-07-1914 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS9 Ep5 - Springfield Table Tennis ClubMystery surrounds the origins of Springfield Table Tennis Club, Twyford’s number 1 ping pong establishment.Firstly, how did the club get its name?Secondly, beyond being formed in the 1960s, what is known of the club’s history?Have the secrets been lost in time?The RG10 Podcast headed down to the club’s championships finals night to find out more, and also get word from Jason King, chairman and secretary:“All ages can play [table tennis]. You can literally be playing it from a very young age all the way up to ret...
2023-06-2809 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS9 Ep4 - Twyford Beer Festival 2023If you went you may still be recovering from it, if you didn't go you probably heard it anyway. The Twyford Beer Festival, surely RG10's biggest annual event, was held over the weekend.As per usual, there were dozens of local brews and drinks to quench the thirst during 3 days of amazing weather. All that plus a host of supremely gifted musicians such as local band Big Audio Twynamite and the music of Pink Floyd performed by Crazy Diamond.The event raises thousands of pounds for Orchid, the UK’s leading charity for those af...
2023-06-1210 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS9 Ep 3 - Wargrave Church Fire & The Suffragettes109 years ago this week there was a huge fire at St Mary's Church in Wargrave. Here’s an excerpt from the Wokingham Fire Brigade Diaries from June the 1st, 1914:"Called at 3.40am to a fire at Wargrave Church, some 2 hours after the fire was started. The Henley & Wargrave Brigades were in attendance. Roof and belfry destroyed. Also bells, clock & all interior masonry, timber fittings & windows – quite gutted"In this episode of the RG10 Podcast we delve into the life of the person who many believe was responsible for the blaze.She was a mili...
2023-05-3107 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS9 Ep2 - 100th edition of RG10 magazineThe RG10 magazine has published its 100th edition!In this episode we hear from magazine founder, editor and publisher Nikki Ochtman as she reflects on a journey that started in 2009. Nikki shares some of the initial aims she had for the magazine: “I've always been keen on supporting small local businesses and promoting themes such as shop local, protecting the vulnerable in society and doing our bit to minimise our impact on the environment. All of these themes I think are quite consistent in the magazine, but I really just wanted to provide a vehicle for...
2023-05-1709 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS9 Ep1 - Coronation specialIn the days leading up to the coronation of King Charles III, The RG10 Podcast caught up with a couple of local initiatives that have been catching the imagination of residents. First up, Ben speaks to Heather Howarth of the Hurst Hookers, the knitting and crochet group that has created a charming display around Hurst village pond over the past couple of weeks. The wooden posts have been converted into Grenadier Guards standing to attention around the King and Queen Consort and the Archbishop of Canterbury. There's even a Paddington Bear! The work has been much ad...
2023-05-0307 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS8 Ep 6 - Happy 5th birthday to Twyford Twinning AssociationDid you know that Twyford is twinned with the small town of Cuincy in northern France? The twinning only dates back to 2018, but strong connections have already been formed between the two locations.To mark the 5th anniversary in March, the Twyford Twinning Association held a 'soirée' at Loddon Hall. The RG10 Podcast went along to learn more. We catch up with the association's chairman, Hazel Evans, who talks about the impact of the pandemic and describes past events and plans for the future. The association is keen to raise awareness of the opportunities that e...
2023-03-2909 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS8 Ep5 – The Twyford Together Community AwardsIt’s been a big week for awards ceremonies. A day after the Oscars were handed out in Los Angeles, the RG10 Podcast went along to the Twyford Together Community Awards evening. Not quite as glamorous, perhaps, but much more meaningful for those keen to celebrate the individuals, groups and businesses in the local community who “go that extra mile and make a difference to people’s lives”.Members of the public had several weeks to nominate candidates across 8 awardcategories. After judging by a panel representing the local community, the winners – plus others shortlisted as finalists...
2023-03-1612 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS8 Ep 4 - The Lion, the Biscuit and the Walkabout (Romping Around Reading)How much do you know about the history, architecture and culture of Reading? The RG10 Podcast talked to local legend Terry Dixon, a Reading native who has so far spent six years of his retirement running themed walking tours of his home town. Even those familiar with the county town of Berkshire are sure to discover something new on one of Terry's Reading Walkabouts.Terry has devised 16 different routes, with two more due to be added this spring. Subjects include Edible Reading, Reading Architecture, Women of Reading, Crime and Punishment, Ghosts of Hallowe'en and Huntley & P...
2023-03-0109 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS8 Ep 3 - Cycling in Twyford - The Bia Hub Kilometre CollectiveFrom noon on Friday 27 January, a group of cycling enthusiasts led by Jenni Green, the founder of the Bia cycling brand, set out to cycle from Land's End to John O'Groats within 24 hours. The RG10 Podcast went along to the Bia Hub in Twyford to witness some of the high spirits, hard work and collective effort put into the charity event. Ben spoke to several participants, including Jenni herself and also Lee Goodwin, the owner of Velo Life, which has recently joined up with the Bia brand and has two further cycle workshop/cafes in Warren Row a...
2023-02-1512 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS8 Ep 2 - The Charvil Air Crash, 70 years on.Last Friday (27/1/23) was the 70th anniversary of a tragic air crash on the border of Charvil and Twyford.Two men died after their aircraft fell to the ground under mysterious circumstances.It may be that you are unaware of this horrific incident, but the accident has left a legacy that can be found in Charvil Country Park.This episode of the podcast uses eyewitness reports and audio from the era to take you back to one of the area's saddest stories.Sources for t...
2023-02-0108 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS8 Ep1 - Cost of living supportWinter 2022-23: more people than ever are finding themselves struggling to make ends meet in the current cost of living crisis.Organisations such as parish and borough councils and charities including Citizens Advice are working hard to signpost individuals and families to the support available, from financial grants to food banks and the provision of clothing and other essentials. There is also a network of 'warm spaces' running open sessions to enable people to access support and get warm if they are minimising the use of their heating at home due to energy costs. The...
2023-01-1811 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS7 Ep6 - Santa on the streets of RG10! We go behind the scenes....It's the most wonderful time of the year. A time for tradition. A time for family. A time for the Twyford and District Round Table to head to their lock up and retrieve Santa, his sleigh and all the reindeer.Anyone who has spent December in RG10 will probably be aware of the Round Table's annual Santa sleigh run, where the man with all the presents trundles up various roads in Twyford, Hurst, Charvil and Wargrave delivering copious amounts of cheer (and sweets).In what is probably a world first, the RG10 podc...
2022-12-0709 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS7 Ep5 - First Days Children's CharityAs the weather turns colder and we approach the festive season, the number of people finding themselves in financial difficulties is growing due to soaring energy bills and the rising cost of living.Despite Wokingham being one of the most prosperous boroughs in the UK, it now has over 5,000 children living under the poverty line. This figure was unimaginable to our podcast guest, Emma Cantrell, when she founded First Days Children's Charity ten years ago. She wanted to help the then relatively small number of local families struggling financially by providing items that were essential but beyond...
2022-11-2315 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS7 Ep4 - Wargrave Women and Girls FC - a sporting success storyIs there a girls football team in Twyford or Wargrave? There certainly is. The biggest is certainly Wargrave Women and Girls FC.Wargrave Women and Girls FC was formed in 2000 and they are now one of the biggest female only football clubs in England. Girls from school year 1 up to adult train and play every week in the club’s distinctive light blue strip, building skills, confidence and friendships through fun competitive football. Imogen Scott is WWGFC’s newly appointed chairwoman and in this episode of the podcast she talks about the club’s past ach...
2022-11-0911 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS7 Ep3 - Halloween and Ghosts in Twyford, Wargrave and Sonning!Where are the ghosts in Berkshire? In RG10! With Halloween creeping up on us, the RG10 podcast has unearthed some of the area's spookiest tales. There is the story of a ghostly horseman named Herne the Hunter. The legend goes that hundreds of years ago Herne committed an atrocity within Windsor Forest, and his tormented soul has on occasion been spotted in Twyford. He is easy to recognise, as he has antlers and attacks cattle. As the episode reveals, Herne the Hunter also appears in a Shakespeare play and in an episode of a 1980s teatime television dr...
2022-10-2608 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS7 Ep2 - The 10th Twyford Charity 5K and Fun RunOctober brings one of the most popular annual community events. Even for the non-runners, the Twyford Charity 5K and Fun Run promises a great morning out, with activities for all ages, plenty of stalls and refreshments and the opportunity to support those taking part.The races start with the 'pre-school toddle', followed by several more children's races by age group, ending with the chip-timed, multi-terrain 5km run, which offers prizes to not only individual winners but also the Fastest Street, Fastest Family, Fastest Business/Club/Society and a Have-A-Go-Hero. This year's event is the 10th o...
2022-10-1210 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS7 Ep1 - Where can I Morris dance in Berkshire? Try going to Hurst!Have you ever asked "where can I learn to morris dance" or "what is morris dancing"?Well, it's late September, Strictly Come Dancing is back - and so are the annual taster sessions with Hurst Morris People!Ben didn't need too much persuading to head to Hurst Village Hall to find out more. We learn a bit about Morris dancing as an English folk tradition, the Cotswold style (the one with sticks and hankies), versus other types, and a typical practice session with Hurst Morris People - affectionately known as HuMP.He chats with...
2022-09-2809 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS6 Ep6 - Therapeutic Gardening with the Twyford GrowersTwyford Growers is a group of people who meet at the Hurst Road allotments in Twyford each Thursday between March and October. They may have been referred to the gardening scheme by NHS social prescribers to alleviate feelings of anxiety, depression and/or loneliness, or they may have self-referred to enhance their physical and mental wellbeing, or simply volunteered to help cultivate the plot specially dedicated to Twyford Growers.The initiative began in late 2020 after Councillor Rohana Abeywardana, now Chairman of Twyford Parish Council, was inspired by the success of a similar scheme elsewhere. It has been...
2022-08-3111 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS6 Ep5 - The Marvellous Festival at Dinton Pastures - what you need to knowNot a lot of people know this, but RG10 Podcast host Ben is also a musician who plays in a band - so sending him to check out this year's Marvellous Festival at Dinton Pastures was probably his ideal assignment!He has a chat with Pete Lincoln, local musician and one of the festival's founder-directors, before getting backstage with one of the tribute acts: ReTake That and Robbie. Marvellous Festival was founded 20 years ago, nowadays featuring no less than 14 top-class tribute bands over two days (23-24 July 2022). The magical setting at Dinton Pastures Country Park of...
2022-08-1711 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS6 Ep4 - Cycling and Walking in Twyford, Wargrave, Charvil, Hurst, Ruscombe etc.Have you heard about Elsie Whip? No, not her (this is not that kind of podcast!) The L-C-WIP: Wokingham Borough Council's Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan... The draft LCWIP has been formulated based on feedback from a public consultation carried out a year ago in July 2021. This summer, residents are being invited to review details of the plans, which are far-reaching and actually quite exciting. How much of it will end up being delivered will depend on the public response to the proposals, and, of course, how successful the council is in bidding for funding the v...
2022-08-0310 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS6 Ep3 - Air Pollution in TwyfordAs is the case at many busy junctions, there's something in the air at the Twyford crossroads, and it's not good. The centre of the village has high levels of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) - over 40 micro milligrammes per cubic metre, which is detrimental to health. For the most part this is attributable to emissions from engines idling at the traffic lights.This is nothing new: the junction was designated an Air Quality Management Area back in late 2015. The Public Protection Partnership monitors NO2 levels regularly and reports the findings to Defra.WBC's Active Travel Officer...
2022-07-2010 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS6 Ep2 - Henley Festival 40th anniversaryHenley Festival CEO Jo Bausor gives us the lowdown on the 40th anniversary of Henley's iconic music and arts event, being held this week from Wed 6th to Sunday 10 July.After two years of disruption due to the Covid pandemic, everyone is looking forward to getting 'back to normal'. Many festival goers will be focusing on the key attractions on the floating stage, including Sir Tom Jones, The Script, Craig David, Katherine Jenkins, Pete Tong, Katherine Jenkins and Jack Savoretti. Yet there is a wide choice of entertainment to enjoy across the site - not just...
2022-07-0609 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS6 Ep1 - Open water swimming in the River Thames, WargraveBen has outdone himself this time. Our intrepid podcast host has donned his wetsuit and gatecrashed the regular early morning river swim of a pod of Twyford mermaids.Wait, one of them sounds familiar... it's the voice of Jules Lang, well known to listeners of BBC Radio 2 and Radio Berkshire. The broadcaster lives locally and is a dedicated open water swimmer. After braving the water for a while, Ben catches up with Jules and friends to learn more about the appeal - and the dangers! - of open water swimming, why it has gained in p...
2022-06-2309 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS5 Ep6 - Stanlake Park Wine Estate - what you need to knowThis doesn't sound like work at all... Picture a sunny afternoon in May, at the beautiful setting of Stanlake Park Wine Estate in Twyford. Cue RG10 Podcast producer Ben, enjoying a guided tour and fascinating chat with General Manager Natalia Pezzone - over a bottle of white wine, naturally.How did this former vet from Argentina come to be so passionate and knowledgeable about good quality wines? What's her connection to Stanlake's award-winning Italian winemaker, Nico Centonze? When were the first vineyards planted at Stanlake Park?What has changed in...
2022-05-1813 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS5 Ep5 - Platinum Jubilee eventsAfter more than two years living under a pandemic, everyone is eagerly anticipating the opportunity to have some fun over the extended holiday weekend marking the Queen's 70 years on the throne. Our local communities have plenty going on, and we caught up with just a few organising something a bit different...The Fearlessly Odd Festival in Twyford - with the organisers Sabrina (Brie) Findlay of Music Made Fearless and Jack Trimble of Oddbody Tattoo Studio: https://twyfordtogether.org/upcoming-events/fearlessly-odd-festival/A series of events by Hurst Parish Council (sponsored by Stanlake Pa...
2022-05-0410 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS5 Ep4 - Help if you have been through a divorce - The Divorce Recovery WorkshopHave you felt traumatised by the end of a marriage or other significant relationship? You are not alone. It can be hard to believe that you could ever be happy again, let alone that the best might yet be to come.Many people have found it helpful to attend a course run over two consecutive weekends by the Divorce Recovery Workshop, aimed at helping people make sense of their feelings, understand and let go of the past and set the foundations for a brighter future.Thirty years after the first Divorce Recovery Workshop was held...
2022-04-2111 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS5 Ep3 - Twyford Singers2022 is the 60th anniversary year for local choir, Twyford Singers. We catch up with them during rehearsals for their traditional Easter concert, to be held in St Mary's church in Twyford on Palm Sunday, 10 April.The concert will include music from the 8th century to the 20th, as well as a new composition of 'Gloria, laus et honor' by Simon Rigby, a previous musical director of Twyford Singers.In this podcast we hear from choir members Sue Corcoran and Celia Reinbolt. They reassure Ben that he'd be most welcome if he fancied joining! No previous...
2022-04-0512 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS5 Ep2 - Twyford Ukulele CollectivePlenty of famous people play the ukulele, including George Clooney, Pierce Brosnan, The Rock, Tom Hanks, Barack Obama, Taylor Swift and Madonna. George Harrison was a huge fan, apparently, keeping ukuleles all over his house in Henley.However, the instrument is accessible to all: relatively inexpensive to buy and easy to pick up quite quickly, it provides anyone with an enjoyable way of making music. Players have even more fun if part of a group such as the Twyford Ukulele Collective, founded by local music teacher Jenny Preece. Apart from the opportunity to make new f...
2022-03-2310 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS5 Ep1 - Hurst Bowling ClubThis is a story weaving together royal connections with a bit of local history, highlighting an activity suitable for all ages and a community social hub, the fundraising effort towards a building fit for purpose, and the resilience and humour of club members faced with the aftermath of a storm.Ben visited Hurst Bowling Club in February 2022, soon after Storm Eunice felled a large tree by the adjacent Castle Inn, destroying the old outside toilet of the club. He talks to Ronnie Ashley, a committee member with responsibility for fundraising, about the 275-year-old club and its role...
2022-03-0212 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS4 Ep6 - How to cope with chronic and long term pain, with Dr Sarah BryanDo you suffer from chronic pain? Do you wish you could be free of it for good and take back control of your life? Stay tuned for this interview with Dr Sarah Bryan, a physical therapist dedicated to achieving that freedom for every client, drawing on the services of a multidisciplinary team as necessary.Sarah talks us through her holistic approach, working with the body to find imbalances, release restrictions and retrain the brain to keep the adjustments made. She may work with clients over several months, possibly including referrals to experts in other fields s...
2022-02-0212 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS4 Ep5 - Seeking out kindnessSpoiler alert: Kindness is alive and well! We just need to recognise and celebrate it more.In this episode of the RG10 Podcast, we hear about two online spaces dedicated to sharing the good stuff that we humans are capable of. All too often, both in business and in private life, we focus on what's tough or difficult. We forget to be grateful for (or even notice) the everyday kindness we receive, or to consider how we ourselves can take action to make life better for others. Brightening someone's morning or helping them in a difficult situation are just...
2022-01-1911 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS4 Ep4 - Walking FootballHappy New Year! Have you resolved to be more active in 2022, take up a new hobby, get outside more or make new friends? Here's an idea that offers all of that and more - the sport of walking football.Yes - walking football is a game in its own right, requiring players to adhere to the principles of minimal contact with other players and, obviously, no running. We chat to Cornelius O'Kane, Secretary of Woodley Pensioners Football Club. Despite the name, membership is by no means restricted to retired people in RG5! The club runs three walk-in sessions on...
2022-01-0509 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS4 Ep3 - Pantomimes in Twyford, Wargrave and HurstOh, yes it is! Pantomime is that peculiarly British music hall tradition of family-friendly comedy productions, usually based on a fairy tale or fable, with cross-dressing actors in the lead roles and some element of audience participation.Families around the RG10 area are spoilt for choice this winter, with three different pantomimes to look forward to in January. Local theatre groups in Twyford, Hurst and Wargrave have all been rehearsing hard in order to bring laughter and enjoyment to audiences of all ages in the new year. We bring you the lowdown direct from the (pantomime?) horses' mouths...Twyford...
2021-12-2114 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS4 Ep2 - Live from the Twyford Christmas Fayre!This podcast is going out on 8 December 2021: are you feeling festive yet? If not, this will help - a soundtrack of the Twyford Christmas Fayre, held in the village centre last Friday! It was fantastic seeing so many people out supporting the Twyford Together event. Throughout the evening people of all ages were enjoying themselves amongst the stalls, street entertainers and musical performances - not to mention the Riverways Reindeer and a visit by Father Christmas himself. RG10 Podcast host/producer Ben went along too, and struck up conversations with an interesting mix of people. He began by seeking out...
2021-12-0710 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS4 Ep1 - Eco-friendly Christmas tips with Plastic Free HomeDave Lamont is a regular guy: a Berkshire resident with a good job and young family. He explains who and what inspired him to set up the Plastic Free Home in 2018: a blog and Facebook community dedicated to seeking and sharing ideas for more sustainable living.Hot on the heels of COP26, the global climate summit in Glasgow, we know that the urgency has never been greater for human behaviour to change, yet the task can feel insurmountable. What difference can we make as individuals to the race against time?Plastic Free Home has clearly struck a chord, with over 35,000...
2021-11-2412 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS3 Ep6 - Tune in to the Twyford Folk Music WorkshopIn this episode we hear how the enjoyment of playing an instrument, the enduring appeal of folk music, and the vision of a local man underpin the continued success of the monthly Twyford Folk Music Workshop.Colin McEwen explains how he set up the group in 2013 largely for his own enjoyment, then discovered a pool of people either interested in progressing their current playing ability or keen to get back into music after leaving it behind earlier in life. The monthly workshops have attracted an average of 10-12 musicians throughout the past eight years: whilst some are regulars, there is...
2021-10-1310 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS3 Ep5 - Dr Lindsay Browning: Trouble sleepingGone are the days when it was cool to boast about only needing a few hours' sleep. We now have a much greater understanding of how important sleep is for our overall health and wellbeing. Yet what constitutes 'good sleep hygiene', and what is the best approach to take for anyone having trouble sleeping?Who better to dispel the myths and outline best practice than chartered psychologist, neuroscientist, author and sleep expert Dr Lindsay Browning? Based in Wokingham, she set up Trouble Sleeping in 2006. Through talks, consultations and workshops she helps people improve their sleep and wellbeing through sleep therapy...
2021-09-2815 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS3 Ep4 - The return of Henley FestivalJo Bausor has been busy since being appointed CEO of Henley Festival in January 2021. Her decade-long experience as part of the management team has been invaluable in bringing the event back to life following its cancellation during the 2020 pandemic.After navigating through many challenges through the year, she can finally celebrate the return of Henley's iconic black-tie music and arts festival, which opens tonight on the banks of the River Thames. Talking to us ten days ago at the start of the infrastructure build, Jo shares with us some of the hurdles that have been overcome along with a few...
2021-09-1512 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS3 Ep3 - Henley Literary Festival 2021With just a month to go until the Henley Literary Festival, we catch up with Events and Programme Director Harriet Reed-Ryan. Reflecting on the experience of running the 2020 festival online due to the pandemic, she explains how some key successes are being carried over. For example, the schools programme will run online only, having seen audiences increase almost fivefold last year. The 2021 festival will offer a blend of in-person events, some with a live-streaming option, and online-only events. Ahead of the main festival running from 2 to 10 October, on each Monday in September there will be an online interview with an...
2021-09-0112 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS3 Ep2 The 108th Hurst Horticultural ShowThe Hurst Horticultural Show offers the perfect way to spend an English summer's day, whether exhibiting in any of the 134 classes or just admiring the entries and enjoying the friendly atmosphere of a favourite village tradition.The 108th show will be held on Saturday 21 August 2021. One of the organisers, Frank Whittaker, proudly tells us a little about the history of the event and how it has evolved over the years. He also shares a few practical gardening tips. - What possible connection could wrestling have with the Hurst Horticultural Show? - What weird and wonderful classes of exhibits were included...
2021-08-1810 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS3 Ep1 Twyford Bowling ClubEver fancied trying your hand at bowling? As in lawn bowls, not the indoor ten-pin type - and nothing to do with cricket.Isn't it a sport for old people? Not necessarily. It does have that reputation, but nowadays bowling clubs are attracting younger people and family memberships are gaining in popularity. Our intrepid podcast host and producer, Ben, was keen to have a go (any excuse to bunk off!) He headed down to Twyford Bowling Club and caught up with its chairperson, Ann Harris, who kindly showed him the ropes. Or rather, the green, the mat, the jack...
2021-08-0311 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS2 Ep7 HATs off to the Henley Arts TrailCould this year's Henley Arts Trail be the best one yet? Absolutely! Offering free entry to 39 venues showcasing the work of around 200 artists over two weekends in July, HAT presents the perfect opportunity to get out and about, explore a beautiful area and combine art with conversation - maybe even some shopping. The dates for HAT 2021 are 10-11 and 17-18 July. A few venues are only open on one of the weekends so do check online and plan your route in advance. HAT has gone from strength to strength since it began 15 years ago. We speak to four of the...
2021-06-3016 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS2 Ep6 Hurst Show & Country Fayre is back!The Hurst Show has been running for over 40 years, bringing the local community together and attracting visitors from surrounding areas for a two-day family-friendly celebration of arts & crafts, traditional country skills, and activities such as a dog show, plant stall, classic car show and hobby-horse racing (yes, really!)We are joined by Vikki Randles from the Hurst Show organising committee, who talks enthusiastically about the return to a live event this year following a scaled back version in 2020 (government guidelines permitting). Last year during the coronavirus pandemic the community really pulled together and several aspects of the Hurst Show did...
2021-06-0811 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS2, Ep5 Ian Wisdom: Twyford Beer FestivalIan Wisdom is a busy man in the run-up to the 11th Twyford Beer Festival, so we’re delighted that he took time out to have a chat. As the festival founder, who better to explain the reasons for starting it up in 2010, how much it has raised over the years for men’s cancer charity Orchid, what’s involved in organising the two-day event, and what visitors can expect this year. He also shares a touching anecdote from a past event that is a personal highlight for him. Twyford Beer Festival 2021 will be a welcome celebration for many, coming just d...
2021-05-2613 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS2, Ep 4 Twyford (Berkshire) Facebook Group: a look behind the scenesThe Twyford (Berkshire) Facebook group was created nine years ago by local resident Janette Vorster – apparently accidentally! She is still one of the admins who volunteer their time to moderate what has become a very large and highly engaged closed community of people connected with Twyford. Janette tells the story behind the group that has become an integral part of everyday life for many local residents and businesses. So much so that the admins were recognised in the 2019 Twyford Together Community Awards, winning Community Group of the Year – to their great surprise and delight. To prevent the group being overrun by c...
2021-04-2709 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS2, Ep 3 Free course in understanding the experience of dementiaTwyford-based charity Understanding Dementia has been receiving great feedback about its free training course for family and friend carers. We chat to one participant, Helen, whose mother has Alzheimer’s Disease. Unsure how best to support her parents, who live at some distance, she signed up for the course in late 2020. Helen talks about taking part in the online training via eight live Zoom sessions, and explains the positive impact it has had on her own wellbeing as well as that of both her parents. With a greater understanding of how her mother experiences the world, Helen is applying the Un...
2021-04-1412 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS2, Ep 2 Vanessa Holburn: How will new dog owners cope as lockdown eases?Vanessa Holburn is a local author, supporter of environmental initiatives,and campaigner against animal cruelty. Her latest book, ‘How to pick a puppy: An ethical guide to choosing the perfect pet’ is aimed at would-be pet owners. With the marked increase in pet ownership during the coronavirus lockdown, we thought it a good idea to ask Vanessa about the potential problems that new dog owners could face as lockdown restrictions start to be lifted. Vanessa reveals what these issues are and how they can be overcome.Vanessa also talks about how the surge in demand for dogs – and consequently prices – has led...
2021-03-3111 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyS2, Ep 1 Surf the Plastic Free Community wave: Gordon Holmes of TRIPA couple of years ago Gordon Holmes was a man on a mission: to engage the local community in addressing the prevalence of single use plastics, with the aim of reducing litter and the harmful effect on the environment and wildlife. Gordon talks about TRIP - Twyford Rethinks Its Plastic, whose work has led to Twyford being awarded Plastic Free Community status in early 2021 by marine conservation charity Surfers Against Sewage. Soon moving away from the RG10 area, Gordon is delighted that TRIP and the PFC initiative will now be led by local councillor Ro Abeywardana, forming part of Twyford...
2021-03-1607 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames Valley20. Valentine’s Day 2021 – activities, gifts, mealsHow will you mark Valentine’s Day this year? You’d be forgiven for feeling a bit ‘blah’ and unmotivated due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic… Luckily you came up trumps when we asked you to have a think and share some suggestions with other RG10 followers! So here’s a special episode of the podcast dedicated to celebrating love in lockdown. Support a local pre-school and catering business by taking part in a virtual quiz and pie night hosted by a professional comedian. Enjoy a G&T and craft evening with your beloved, treat them to a handmade gift, introduce th...
2021-02-0213 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames ValleyYour Valentine’s Day ideas please!For those fortunate enough to be in a relationship, what are you planning (or hoping for) to mark Valentine’s Day this year? After close to a year living under the coronavirus pandemic, most partnerships have been tested but often also strengthened. Enduring love is an amazing thing, well worth celebrating! For those not in a couple – whether awesome alone or single and seeking – do you have in mind a soulfully nourishing bit of self-care or a gesture of love towards a friend or family member? Perhaps it’s the little things that count – a walk in the countryside hand in hand –...
2021-01-2701 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames Valley19. Still there to help – Twyford Covid-19 Community Support GroupSam Bramwell became a bit of a local hero during 2020. In December, Twyford Parish Council named her Citizen of the Year. She’s a busy person, so we’re delighted to have her join the RG10 Podcast. Sam talks about her motivation for founding the Twyford Covid-19 Support Group, the scale and scope of the volunteer response to help vulnerable people, and how the needs have changed between the first lockdown back in the spring and the current situation in early 2021. “It’s about kindness and respect for each other … looking out for one another … checking in with older residents … making a diffe...
2021-01-1312 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames Valley18. Alison Hesketh of TimeFinders on bridging the gap in support for older peopleAlison Hesketh is the founder and director of TimeFinders Senior Life Specialists, offering practical and emotional support for older people and their families as they adjust to changing circumstances. And we all know how much of that there’s been in 2020… TimeFinders was launched in the RG10 area but now covers all of the Thames Valley and central southern England. In this episode Alison explains how she and her team spend time working with individuals and listening to their stories, helping them with everything from handling paperwork and making plans for the future to downsizing, freeing up family members to spen...
2020-12-2211 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames Valley17. Mitali Kelly – helping businesses survive and prosperSmall businesses have had a lot to contend with during the Covid-19 pandemic. Help is at hand from Mitali Kelly, a Finance and Business Consultant based near Reading. She talks about the importance of having a plan, however uncertain things seem, understanding your current cash position, continuing to spend on marketing but targeting it more carefully, delivering online services and the use of the furlough scheme. You can contact Mitali via Linked In: www.linkedin.com/in/mitali-kelly/ or email info@mkellyconsulting.co.uk.Sponsorship opportunity: Raise awareness of your business with the RG10 Podcast audience by sponsoring an...
2020-12-0808 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames Valley16. Rebecca Howard – the Big Twyford Tree Planting ProjectSometimes if you have a good idea, you just need to run with it and others will join you in support. This is what happened earlier this year for Rebecca Howard, whose desire to improve the environment by planting trees in her local community won the backing of Twyford Parish Council and quickly gained momentum with local residents and businesses. Within a few weeks her crowdfunding campaign attracted sufficient supporters to make The Big Twyford Tree Planting Project a reality.We catch up with Rebecca at Stanlake Meadow, where over 60 trees are due to be planted on Saturday 6 December – delayed by...
2020-11-2409 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames Valley15. CSR matchmaking with Vickie Randall of Connect CharityCharities need support from the business community now more than ever, with fundraising events hit hard by the coronavirus pandemic. And businesses need ways to demonstrate their values, ethics and social responsibility to consumers in a competitive marketplace. Connect Charity is an organisation based in Berkshire that facilitates partnerships between charities and businesses – you could say it acts as a Corporate Social Responsibility matchmaking agency. Director Vickie Randall outlines some of the reasons behind such collaborations and how they can benefit both sides. Whilst acknowledging the pressures faced in 2020, she also sees the positives coming out of these challenging times, wi...
2020-11-1008 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames Valley14. Paul Johnson of Home Instead on rising to the challenges of CovidPaul and Melissa Johnson are co-directors of Home Instead Senior Care Maidenhead, Henley & Wallingford. Based in Ruscombe, Home Instead offer care assistance enabling older people to continue living independently in their own home.Having worked in the city for most of his working life, for several years Paul had specifically wanted to run and develop a high quality care business in the local community. When the chance came to take over an existing Home Instead office in 2016, it presented the perfect opportunity.In this interview Paul talks about the impact of COVID-19 on raising people’s awareness about the home ca...
2020-10-2710 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames Valley13. Talking Twyford Comets FC with Dean CooperDean Cooper has a long association with Twyford’s youth football club, Twyford Comets, established in 1972. So much so that he was named Sports Personality of the Year in the 2018 Twyford Together Community Awards. He talks about the history of the club, some of its past players, how it came to have an annual exchange with a club in the Netherlands, and how girls have become key to its future. www.twyfordcomets.comSponsorship opportunity: Raise awareness of your business with the RG10 Podcast audience by sponsoring an episode or a series.Request details: rg10ma...
2020-10-1411 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames Valley12. Abby Lacey on helping real people talk about their mental healthThis episode is being released just in time for World Mental Health Day, 10 October, so it’s appropriate that our guest is someone making a positive difference in our area to people struggling with their mental health. RG10 resident Abby Lacey talks to us about Mental Health Mates (Reading), the walking group she set up in the spring of 2019, and how this led her to launch the 1 in 4 Mental Health Podcast in May 2020. Abby understands from personal experience how important and beneficial it is for anyone experiencing mental ill health to be able to talk openly without judgement. Through the po...
2020-09-3009 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames Valley11. All about Henley Literary Festival Online, with Harriet Reed-Ryan*NOTE: Henley Literary Festival ticket giveaway competition in RG10 magazine (ends 20th September 2020): bit.ly/2DQ4iIaWhether you love a literary festival or have never been to one, this year offers the perfect opportunity to engage with a stellar cast of writers and celebrity interviewers from the comfort of your own home. Due to ongoing Covid restrictions on public gatherings, the 2020 Henley Literary Festival has moved online. Harriet Reed-Ryan, Events and Programme Director, explains how audiences will benefit from an immersive and interactive experience through live streaming of events. Harriet also shares how she first became involved with the festival...
2020-09-1614 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames Valley10. Science, yoga, mood and food with Joanne HartJoanne is a qualified engineer turned nutritional therapist and yoga teacher who loves working with sporty people in and around Berkshire. Her clients benefit from her scientific mind and holistic approach in order to achieve optimum health and peak performance. Joanne works with individuals and companies offering personalised programmes for sports nutrition, digestive health, brain health and employee wellbeing. Links:Website – www.healthandhart.com |Facebook page – www.facebook.com/healthandhart |Facebook group – www.facebook.com/groups/TheravenousathleteSponsorship opportunity: Raise awareness of your business with the RG10 Podcast audience by sponsoring an episode or a series.Request detail...
2020-09-0111 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames Valley9. An insight into Henley Festival, with Artistic Director Stewart CollinsHenley Festival is normally one of the highlights of the summer social calendar – a five-day black tie celebration of music and arts, held on the banks of the River Thames. After Covid-19 forced the cancellation of the 2020 event, it was the job of artistic director Stewart Collins to rebook all the acts for the following year. The good news is that all the same artists have been confirmed in the line-up for 2021, including headliners Madness, James Blunt and Sophie Ellis-Bextor all taking a turn on the floating stage. We learn about Stewart’s first career as a performer, his involvement in a...
2020-08-1911 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames Valley8. Leadership communications and confidence with Liz BalmfordLiz Balmford is a Twyford-based performance coach working with business people to improve their leadership communications and confidence to achieve self-belief and results. Whilst there are many coaches out there, Liz is able to combine a business background in marketing communications with her qualification as an EFT practitioner (Emotional Freedom Technique/Tapping) to offer a unique blend of action-based coaching and energy-focused healing. This really helps people overcome whatever may be holding them back from realising their full potential – for example becoming more effective and relaxed at leading meetings or speaking in public. During the interview Liz shares some great ad...
2020-08-0410 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames Valley7. Sarah Brazenor - helping teenagers turn exam fear into exam successIn this episode we are joined by Sarah Brazenor, a learning coach and founder of Connective Learning, based in Maidenhead. She specialises in working with GCSE students to help them understand their own unique learning style in order to achieve their full potential. Sarah cites dyslexia and confidence issues among reasons that some students might struggle with our results-focused education system. This year’s school closures and exam cancellations due to the coronavirus lockdown have brought a whole new raft of issues, and Sarah has some reassuring words to offer students and parents. Links:Website - http://www.connective-learning.co.uk...
2020-07-2210 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames Valley6. Niki McCann on Waltham Place - Berkshire’s best kept secret?A previous contributor of many ‘nature notes’ articles for RG10 magazine, Niki McCann is the Education Officer for Waltham Place in White Waltham. This historic farming estate has been in the Oppenheimer family (of De Beers fame) for three generations. Niki talks us through their principles of working in harmony with nature through biodynamic farming methods. Her own role involves educating visitors and school groups about the farm, gardens and wildlife of Waltham Place. For more information about Waltham Place, or to book a guided walk, order a veg box or register for Niki’s newsletter, visit www.walthamplace.com.Spon...
2020-07-0811 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames Valley5. Understanding Dementia with Shirley PearceWho dedicates themselves to helping people live well with dementia? Shirley Pearce founded the Twyford-based charity Understanding Dementia to do just that. She joins us to explain about her work changing the culture around dementia care by training carers and health professionals to better understand what may be the reasons behind a person’s anxiety or behaviour, leading to more successful interactions and greater wellbeing for all.Shirley gives examples of the charity’s A-Z of tips and introduces its Dementia Trouble Shooting Service before revealing why working with people with dementia can be so rewarding.Website – www.understandingdementia.co.uk...
2020-06-2309 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames Valley4. Jennie Gow - BBC F1 Presenter and Piggott's Most Famous Ex- Pupil?This episode features Jennie Gow, BBC's F1 presenter and perhaps The Piggott School's most famous ex- pupil. In this interview she talks about life in the pit lane, an embarrassing moment with a Hollywood movie star, and her childhood in RG10.Although the F1 season has been put on hold because of the Covid- 19 pandemic, it will return in the first weekend of July and Jennie will be back on the road again. We caught up with her just after the lockdown began.Sponsorship opportunity: Raise awareness of your business with the RG10 Podcast audience by sponsoring...
2020-06-0912 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames Valley3. A chat with the Chairman of Twyford TogetherWe’re joined this time by Rob Yeadon, who finds time alongside his day job as a financial adviser with Benedict Charles Financial Planning to head up Twyford Together, the not-for-profit volunteer organisation behind many of the key initiatives and events in the Twyford community.Rob talks about the close collaboration that exists between Twyford Together, Twyford Parish Council and the Twyford Covid-19 Support Group. Local businesses will also be pleased to hear Twyford Together taking a proactive stance in asking what support they need to recover following the Covid-19 lockdown.Links:www.twyfordtogether.org |www.twyfordparishcouncil.gov.uk |www.fa...
2020-05-2707 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames Valley2. Keep fit in lockdown with social conscience as well as distancingWe catch up with Heidi Strickland-Clark, founder of Wokingham-based outdoor group fitness company FastTrack Fit Camp and frequent contributor to RG10 magazine. The business marked its 10th anniversary last year by converting to a social enterprise supporting local environmental projects, and Heidi is celebrating a milestone birthday of her own this week.Heidi talks us through the rapid conversion of her business model since the third week of March, from outdoor group fitness training to online classes that are growing all the time.FastTrack Fit Camp is a great example of one local business having the agility and imagination to...
2020-05-1210 min
The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames Valley1. Enjoying the Henley Arts Trail in lockdownInitially cancelled due to the Covid-19 restrictions on movement, the 15th annual Henley Arts Trail is now going ahead online. Members of the public can gain an insight into the work and lives of participating artists via the Virtual Henley Arts Trail. A steady stream of images, videos and studio tours of the 36 venues is being shared on the Henley Arts Trail Facebook and Instagram pages from late April.Join our intrepid RG10 podcast host as he ventures out on the virtual Henley Arts Trail to catch up with three local artists: Este MacLeod, Sally Castle and Rosemary Harper.Henley...
2020-04-2913 min