Learning the ropes
There is nothing like the thrill of reaching 40ft off the ground and then looking down. While there is no chance of falling from the dizzy heights of a climbing wall once the top has been reached -...
View ArticleFifteenth revisited
I first caught sight of Reading Golf Club while driving to Kidmore End one day. Bathed in sunshine and flashing bright green through the trees, I thought: "That looks very nice."
View ArticlePrincely courses with aristocratic links
Standing on a links course with the wind blowing you off your feet and the whipping rain chilling you to the bone is golfing heaven to a deranged masochist.
View ArticleSailing close to the wind
THERE's a saying, 'the pessimist complains about the wind; the optimist expects it to change; and the realist adjusts the sails'...
View ArticleOn and off track
My dad, John Swift, is a member of the Kennet and Avon Canal Trust and I asked him how far it was to ride the canal towpath from Newbury to Reading. About 10 miles or so, he said. It was 22 miles and...
View ArticleMission accomplished
Closeted away in a Maiden's Green garage workshop, off and on, for the last two years, Oliver Bettison and his son Alexander, emerged in the early summer, triumphant, with a pristine Mark II Dellow. It...
View ArticlePrincely courses with aristocratic links
Standing on a links course with the wind blowing you off your feet and the whipping rain chilling you to the bone is golfing heaven to a deranged masochist.
View ArticleTaking a reality check
A weekend in Cambridge, arranged around an organised cycle ride and a punt trip, turned out to be more than anticipated.
View ArticleMission accomplished
Closeted away in a Maiden's Green garage workshop, off and on, for the last two years, Oliver Bettison and his son Alexander, emerged in the early summer, triumphant, with a pristine Mark II Dellow. It...
View ArticleFifteenth revisited
We call him the Twig and he's the golf equivalent of the Stig. On a mission to visit every golf course in Berkshire, and neighbouring counties, his first stop is Reading Golf Club where the going gets...
View ArticleCrane sailing
Take a large aluminium alloy tube, add a couple of engines and a good supply of highly inflammable kerosine, cram the void with as many seats, with people strapped into them, as is physically possible,...
View ArticleIn with the Chain Street gang
Bill's is a place to eat, buy food and socialise and the Reading Store, in Chain Street, is one of five UK outlets in this new restaurant and produce chains.
View ArticleIn a league of her own
What has 103 teams, over 1,000 women participants and is approaching its 40th birthday? Gina Macgregor, MBE, knows the answer. It is the netball league she started in May 1971.
View ArticleSwifty on and off track
Having done many of the nice low-incline bike rides in the Slough and Windsor area, Mike Swift, Berkshire Media Group's chief photographer, decided it was time to re-start his regular 'Mike on a Bike'...
View ArticleA room with a view
I've always felt the need to holiday abroad to be able to switch off completely, but have recently discovered I don't need to leave British soil to find the perfect getaway.
View ArticleNeo miss or fisher queen?
Like most people in a demanding job, a 10 hour day is not unusual and 'me time' is spent checking my to-do list - so escaping the confines of our office in west Reading and arriving in Theale for my...
View ArticleSeat of justice or a more contemporary convenience?
It is probably London's most unusual upmarket hotel. On Great Marlborough Street, close to Carnaby Street, the Courthouse has a rich history, and the Grade II listed building, in its original capacity...
View ArticleLearning the ropes
THERE is nothing like the thrill of reaching 40ft off the ground and then looking down. While there is no chance of falling from the dizzy heights of a climbing wall once the top has been reached -...
View ArticleCruising on the African Queen
It must be the most unusual bed and breakfast in Berkshire and she's sailed a long way to get here.
View ArticleDairy Crest Milk&More - the best home shopping experience
When it comes to grocery shopping online the quality of produce and prompt delivery are two of the most significant benefits that most consumers are looking for.
View ArticleSavour the real taste of France
FRANCE is one of those destinations that draws you back time after time - there is always something new to discover - from glorious scenery to cultural treasures or regional cuisine.
View ArticleChic shops and river hops
TUCKED away in leafy south Oxfordshire, beautiful Henley-on-Thames is best known as a base for its regattas and riverside walks. However, to the seasoned shopper, unique boutiques and stores of great...
View ArticleGetting in touch with the wild side
AS SPRING approaches so does the chance for people to get outside and scour the skies for local wildlife. Recent initiatives, such as National Nest Box week, have been helping give youngsters and...
View ArticlePoetry competition is a grand slam for writers
POETRY is centuries older than the novel, but its popularity has waned. This could be changing. Is it the recognition that poetry, song lyrics and rap are all related that has sparked a new level of...
View ArticleCelebrating the Emerald Isle
THINK of leaping leprechauns, folk music and shamrocks and St Patrick's Day is often the first thing that springs to mind. But for those who are truly dedicated to the popular Irish holiday, there's...
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