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1 Registered Charity Number 1124770
West Berkshire Heart Support Group
Newsletter Independent Support Charity Affiliated to the British Heart Foundation.
Associated with the Department of Cardiology,
Royal Berkshire Hospital Trust, Reading, Berkshire.
Volume 9 Issue 2 Circulation 500 April - May 2010
Heartbeats
Channel Swimmer Chris Supported by Her MP David Willetts
Heartbeats member Chris Pitman received the support of her Havant MP Mr. David
Willetts when he joined her in the Havant Leisure Centre‟s swimming pool. Readers of
our last edition will remember
that Chris has set herself the
challenge to swim the Channel
to France in 2012 when she is
61. Before she and her hus-
band Pete moved to Bedhamp-
ton, Chris was our Stage IV
rehabilitation coach at Palmer
Park, in Reading. Chris was a
physical training instructor in
the WRAF and has always
been remarkably fit.
We remember when she first became aware of her need of a pacemaker. At the end of
one rehabilitation session she said that she had to go into hospital the next day. When
asked why she told us an amusing story. On a number of occasions, she had accused
her husband of kicking her in the back when they were in bed asleep. Eventually, she
decided to go for a checkup. Her doctor discovered an irregular heartbeat and referred
her to the Department of Cardiology at the Royal Berkshire Hospital. Tests showed that
she needed a pacemaker. Many might think that this would limited their physical ac-
tivities, but not Chris. It was not long before we witnessed her taking part in the British
Indoor Rowing Championship at the Rivermead Leisure Centre, Caversham, Reading.
Photo courtesy of Southern Water
2
She has since taken part in half-marathons and triathlons-cycling running and
swimming. This reawakened her childhood ambition to swim the Channel. Later
this year she plans to swim the length of Windermere and in the following year
two lengths in preparation for the big event.
Swimming the Channel is an expensive business. She needs to raise £5000 for the
event and training, before she starts raising money for her chosen charities. If any-
one would like to sponsor Chris, contributions should be sent to Horizon Leisure
Centre, Civic Centre Road, Havant, Hants PO9 2AY. Please mark the envelope
„Personal Chris Pitman, Channel Swim‟.
Healthy Cycling at Palmer Park Sports Stadium, Reading by ‘Tweels’
Needing to change my exercise programme recently I joined the small group of cyclists who currently use this facility. Whilst acknowledging that the weather has been a bit challenging lately I wonder why so few heart patients make use of the programme. Cycling on public roads can be a bit daunting these days so the use of a running track/ velodrome is an attractive and safer alternative. For those who don’t have their own machines, or who maybe don’t wish to cycle from their homes to Palmer Park, well-maintained bicycles and tricycles are available within the £2.50 charge for the 1 ½ hour sessions on Mondays and Fri-days. To those who may say, “I wouldn’t mind trying it but I haven’t cycled for years” I would suggest that there is no better place to re-learn than on a soft running track. For the more experienced the cycle track is ideal for improving stamina whilst exercising in the open air. Perhaps as the weather improves I may see more fellow Heartbeat members using the track? Meanwhile, my thanks for the work you put in to produce your excellent news-letters. “Tweels”
3
Researching the Past,
Southcote Manor, Reading
Southcote Manor was built in the 15th century and stood where Hatford
Road and Circuit Lane meet. It was a baronial manor and moated with a
draw bridge. The moat was said to have been 30 feet wide. Just inside the
gates stood an old tithe barn. To reach the main entrance to the house you
would have passed through an archway in the stables, the archway divided
the stables into two parts. These stables could house upwards of a hundred
horses and soldiers. In the time of the Civil War it is thought that at differ-
ent times Royalist and Roundheads would have used the stables. At the
north-east corner of the house stood an old watch tower built about 1450
and quite detached from the house.
The family of Sambourne lived here around the 1490s. Drew Sambourne
died at Southcote in 1506. At his death the manor passed to his grand-
daughter Margaret Sambourne, who married the 2nd Lord Windsor. The
Samborn family were previously believed to have lived at the Manor of
Fernham, which is close to Farringdon Berkshire, now in Oxon.
Around 1589 John Blagrave of Bulmershe Park, Earley, made Southcote
Manor his home. (The Blagrave‟s lived at Bulmershe Park until around
1790 when it was sold). John was a mathematician of renown and wrote
books on the subject. He also studied the skies from a tower in the
grounds. It is said that he did a lot of rebuilding just before he died. He
lived at Southcote till his death in 1611. A small effigy of John wearing a
cloak and ruff, holding a skull and also a plaque is in the south aisle of St
Laurence‟s Church Reading, and tells us that his mother was a Hungerford
and of a „worthie‟ race, she was buried nearby. John‟s nephew Daniel Bla-
grave son of Alexander Blagrave came to Southcote Manor, he was resid-
ing there at the time of the Civil War 1640‟s. He was an Attorney at Staple
Inn and attended the Mock High Court of Justice at Westminster Hall; he
was one of the people who signed the Warrant to put the King to death.
You can imagine the view from the house before the railway was built. It
would have look over the meadows to the Holy Brook and the Kennet and
beyond. The water for the manor was drawn from the Hollowed Brook
(now the Holy Brook). The Monks of Reading Abbey built the Holy
Brook to provide water for their mills .
4
Over the years many tenants occupied Southcote Manor. They built and
did various repairs to the buildings. It was eventually demolished in 1921.
There are lots of tales of secret passages, and tunnels, which were sup-
posed to run from the house. One was claimed to run to Reading Abbey.
Also as with many old houses, Southcote Manor had it‟s ghost; a lady on
a white horse that rode over the drawbridge at 12 o‟clock each night.
Around 1920 my father took the photo of the tower and part of the house
can be seen. If you take a walk round the area you will most likely see
signs of the moat. When we were young we would go to the Holy Brook
to swim, and pass by the site of the manor my friend and I can both re-
member a tower still standing for quite some time after the house was
pulled down. Then a market garden was on the site. At this time flats
stand on the site.
Valerie Kearey. 2/2010.
The
Watch Tower
with the
Manor
House
behind to the
right
Photo by FMK Pounds circa 1920 Photo by FMK Pounds circa 1920
5
The Reading Concert Singers
Church Choirs and Friends
Present
STAINER’S
CRUCIFIXION
7.30 pm
Wednesday
31st March 2010
at
St Mary Magdalen
Church,
Kentwood Hill,
TILEHURST
7.30pm
Good Friday
2nd April 2010
at
St Agnes Church,
Northumberland
Avenue
WHITLEY
Retiring collection in aid of
‘HEARTBEATS’
the
WEST BERKSHIRE HEART SUPPORT
GROUP
Refreshments provided
For details: Tel 0118 942 5290
www.readingconcertsingers.org.uk
6
News from The West Reading Branch Meetings held on the 1st Tuesday in the month starting at 7.30pm
at Calcot Community Centre, High View, Tilehurst, Reading Forthcoming Events: Tuesday 6th April Ian Clay Illustrated talk on Malta Tuesday 4th May To be arranged Tuesday 18th May Group Annual General Meeting, at Holybrook Centre, Carter’s Rise, Calcot, Reading, 7.30pm Local Aviation Since 1783. We did wonder if we had taken down the title incor-rectly, but our speakers on 2nd February, Geoff and Val Beckett ,assured us that we had not. They started by giving some aviation history, not local but in France. Montgofiere sent up a hot air balloon from Versailles witnessed by Louis XVI and Marie An-toinette. The payload was a basket containing a sheep, a rooster and a duck. It travelled 2 miles and landed safely. Other flights followed using balloons inflated by hot air and other gases including hydrogen. The history then switched to Eng-land and to Charles Green who in 1821 used coal gas rather than hydrogen be-cause it was cheaper and safer. In 1836 he few by balloon to Germany. Other flights were made to celebrate the coronation of William IV and the accession of Queen Victoria. Geoff Beckett told us about the early engineering works shop owned by Fred Miles and his brother George. They were first interested in motor cycles but later Fred bought a model T Ford engine and with friends designed an aircraft called the Gnat. He was taught to fly at Shoreham Airport by a local pilot Cecil Pashley . They entered into a partnership and started a flying school and joyriding busi-ness. Fred fell in love with a pupil called Maxine Freeman-Thomas known as Blos-som. She paid to build the first aircraft designed by Fred Miles; the Satyr. Fred and Blossom later married. They moved to Woodley and established the Miles Engineering Company there Geoff gave details of many women pilots who flew before and during the war. He spoke of Winifred Spooner and Amy Johnson. He also showed us oil paintings he had done. A most interesting and well researched talk. Know Your Locality was the title of the Quiz by Brian Bernard on March 2nd . The questions ranged from identifying buildings and roads in Reading and the
7
surrounding area to history associated with the places. As usual the projected
photographs were of high quality and the quiz was enjoyed by all those present. The winners were Team Huntley who shared the prize of chocolates. Team Palmer were disappointed on this occasion. At the end of the quiz Brian showed a series of photos of locomotives. Margaret said afterwards that there were three in her marriage, Brian, herself and quizzes ! He will be giving the same quiz at a meeting of the WWE branch.
Donations Gratefully Received From North Gwent Cardiac Rehabilitation £500 From Ms Fiona Tincey £50 From Mr Tariq of Savod Pharmacy, Reading £50 Donors who wish to support the work of the Group are invited to send their contributions to the Group Chair, June Drew-Clifton, 2 Tring Road, Tilehurst, Reading RG31 6SE., or to the Group Treasurer, Ian Clay, 12 Petworth Avenue, Reading RGRG30 3NL. Cheques should be made payable to the West Berkshire Heart Support Group. Please do not send cash. Please note the Group Website has been changed to:
www.heartbeats-berkshire.co.uk Type this in the address box and do not use
a search engine or you will get the old web site which is no longer updated
Group Committee Members:
Chair: June Drew-Clifton Tel 0118 942 6105 e-mail [email protected]
Secretary: Chris Nash Tel 0118 988 9371 & 0777 557 5647 e-mail [email protected] Treasurer: Ian Clay Tel 0118 958 6915 e-mail [email protected]
Membership: Linda Higgs Tel 0118 984 4758 e-mail [email protected]
Support Co-ordinators: Reading Tel 0118 984 4758 & Newbury 01635 827 928
Branches:
Newbury Chair: Derick Nobbs Tel 01635 861 317 e-mail [email protected]
Newbury Secretary: Jeanne Turvill Tel 01635 861 546 e-mail [email protected]
West Reading Secretary: P Drew-Clifton Tel 0118 942 6105 e-mail [email protected]
Wokingham & Earley Secretary: Maureen Reichelt Tel 0118 926 4260 e-mail [email protected]
Newsletter Editor: Peter Drew-Clifton Tel 0118 942 6105 e-mail [email protected]
8
Letter from Australia
The year 2010 arrived with fireworks that allegedly only Sydney can provide.
The first set go off at 9pm the Family Show, presumably you are supposed to put
the kids to bed afterwards. Then the real big display is at midnight, and I have to
say that it is a spectacular sight. A full 15mins of colour and noise.
The 26th of January dawned dull and murky, but by 8am the sun came out and we
were in the local park for a Champagne Breakfast with the RSL Social club. We
were greeted with “Happy Australia Day”. I do not know of any other country
that celebrates its nationality as Australia does... Breakfast was a BBQ of Steak,
Sausage, Egg, Bacon, and Onion, all on a very large Roll washed down with
Bucks Fizz. The park soon filled with others with the same idea and before long
the smell of good food wafted all over the park. By the time we left at 12noon the
place was full with family gatherings all celebrating a “Happy Australia Day”.
Oh yes, and I won the prize for the best decorated hat with the Aussie theme.
Sydney Harbour was full of boats. The Tall Ships re-enacting the first fleet‟s arri-
val in 1788. The five Ferries have a race and that is a sight to behold.
One wonders how the little boats get out of way in time.
On TV we watched the Tennis Open Tournament in Melbourne and that is
stopped at 9pm for 15mins for a firework show. Andy Murray was able to have a
rest. (shame he lost in the final). Sydney also has a firework show. Fireworks can-
not be purchased in NSW, though they can be bought in Victoria.
I have seen pictures of the snow in Tilehurst, Caversham, Purley and Wokingham.
I almost feel jealous as I love the snow, almost but not quite. Do hope none of you
suffered with broken bones. The RBH was very busy I hear on the first day of the
Ice and Snow, the worst since 1963.
February is now coming to an end and next week it will be Autumn, I still have
trouble getting the seasons in the correct order. The weather has been very vari-
able one day the temperature was 39C until about 4pm when the southerly wind
came in and blew a gale, the temperature dropped 16 degrees in one hour. it is
said that you can get all the four seasons in one day. The fire hazard has not been
as bad as expected this year even though temperatures have been very high.
A smile to finish with………
We had two friends to lunch on Sunday and we were talking about cats,
(as you do) and Beryl tells us that her daughter‟s Siamese is toilet trained,
I kid you not. There is a notice in the downstairs toilet which says;-
The Cat. Please remember he is a boy and leave the seat up and the door open for
him. Sorry, but he cannot flush!! Best story I have heard for ages.
That is my news for now, hope you are all well and looking forward to Spring.
Take Care and God Bless. Isabel and Brian [email protected]
9
Letters to the Group
Members will remember the sad announcement of Morris and Phoebe Read‟s
death in our last edition. June later received a letter from Neil & Rachel Read
which read as follows:
I‟m sorry to have to tell you but Phoebe Read passed away on 30.10.09. She was
born on 27.7.29.
She had one son Neil Read and partner Rachel Read
Her grand children were Ryan, Leanne, Gerald, Daniel, Louise and Kirsty.
She also had great grandchildren, Casey, Savannah, Charlie, Rhianne and Jamie.
We are pleased that Morris and Phoebe are together.
They both had triple by-passes and aortic valves replacements. Dad did not pull
through but Mum struggled and we think she died of a broken heart
Neil and Rachel
********
About the same time we received a telephone call from Ellen, the wife of member
Francis Newbury. He had died on December 14th aged 81. He was cremated at
Henley Road Crematorium on New Year‟s Eve.
Ellen told us that Francis left Stephen and Gillian, and grandchildren John,
Mathew, Daniel, Simon, Samantha and Katrina. He also had great grandchildren
Amanie, Madison, Emelie and Riley
We were all very sorry to hear this news and send our sympathy to both the
families.
********
On a happier note, Linda Higgs our Membership Secretary received a letter from
member Anne Palles. It read:
Thank you for recent letter regarding my membership. I am delighted to tell you
that I had a heart transplant some weeks ago and accordingly have joined the
Papworth Support Group.
I should like to take the opportunity of wishing your group well and thank you for
your past help.
Yours sincerely, Anne Palles 11.3.2010
10
News from The Wokingham, Woodley & Earley Branch Meetings held on the 4th Wednesday in the month starting at 7.30pm
at St Nicolas Church Hall, Sutcliffe Avenue, Earley Future Events: Wednesday 24th March Illustrated talk on Malta by Ian Clay Wednesday 28th April Hanging Basket Demonstration; by Henley Street Garden Centre Representative. Tuesday 18th May Group Annual General Meeting at Holybrook Centre, Carter’s Rise, Calcot, Reading. 7.30pm Wednesday 26th May Know Your Locality. Quiz with slides by Brian Bernard The first half of our monthly get-together in February was our AGM where Brian told us all how well we did during the previous year – or, in this case, how well we did not do as the Branch made a small loss last year. There have been fewer people attending the meetings during the past few months and this is reflected in less takings from the Raffles. Brian stated that the current committee were happy to stand for re-election al-though for a few of them it may be for only a few months and also asked if any-one would like to put their name forward to join the committee. The current members were duly re-elected but Brian himself has now stood down as Chair so we are now running without a Chair at all. June and Peter came to spend some time with us this evening and June thanked Brian for all his hard work during the time he had spent as Chair and stated that he will be missed in that role. The second half of the evening was given over to discussing things amongst our-selves, with a popular topic being the first loading of our medical records on to the NHS system, while enjoying the cheese and wine supper. As many of you will know, Maureen was hospitalised for two weeks earlier in the year but is home now, on the mend and hopes to start coming to the monthly meetings again in April. She will remain as Branch Secretary and the person who researches and books speakers for us. Our next meeting will be on 24th March when Ian Clay (Group Treasurer) will be telling us all about Malta. Cheers, Chris Nash
11
DENTON DANCING & SOCIAL CLUB
WHY SIT AT HOME ON YOUR OWN?
If you are over 40, come and join Molly and Alan Denton from 7:00pm to 10:30 at the Scout Hall, Armour Hill in Tilehurst for a social evening to meet new friends. You don’t have to be a dancer but if you do enjoy ballroom, sequence, Latin, old time, modern and line dancing, like to listen to some good music or just want to come along for a chat you are very welcome. We started our club 22 years ago, and now have many members. We have given over £34,000 to various charities in this time. Admission is £2.50 for members and £3.50 for non-members. Annual membership is £3.00. Also we welcome any items for the raffle. Please bring your own drink.
WEDNESDAY MORNINGS We have a lovely social morning from 10.30—12.30. If you would like to dance, or learn a few simple dances
this is the place to come. If you are not able to dance but would like to watch and listen to music, make new
friends and have a cup of tea or coffee you will be made very welcome. Admission is £2. For further details ring
0118 9453057
12
Bob Powell, Newsletter Photographer
in action at the WWE AGM
Brian Foster, Retiring Chairman of WWE
with Group Chair June Drew-Clifton
Isabel Trent presenting retiring
Chairman of Newbury Branch, Tony
Turvill, with a gift from the Branch
Committee
Tony Turvill right, handing over the
Chairmanship to Derick Nobbs at the
Newbury AGM
Photo Bob Powell
Photo Jenny Madges Photo Jenny Madges
Photo Bob Powell Photo Bob Powell
13
Members have a taste of Nordic Walking in Prospect Park
Instructor Holly Baker measures
up suitable sticks for a member
(above) Prospect Walkers Members
limber up before the start (left). The
taster session was much enjoyed.
Geoff and Valerie Beckett who spoke at Calcot and Neil who showed the pictures
Members have a taste of Nordic
Walking in Prospect Park
14
News from the Newbury Branch
Meetings held on the 2nd Wednesday in the month at 7.30 pm
at St John’s Church Hall, St John’s Road, Newbury
Forthcoming Events
Wednesday April 14th Easter Bonnett Competition
Wednesday May 12th Dr Robin Adams on Living with Earthquakes
Tuesday May 18th Group Annual General Meeting at Holybrook Centre,
Carter‟s Rise, Calcot, Reading. 7.30pm
Our February meeting commenced with our AGM which had to be cancelled in
January due to the bad weather. Chairman Tony had advised the committee in
advance that he would be retiring as Chairman this time. After twelve years he
felt that it was time we had some new blood at the helm as well as needing a rest
himself. Fortunately, one of our members Derick Nobbs gallantly volunteered to
step into the breach and was warmly welcomed by all. The remainder of the
committee was re-elected en bloc so we are all set to go again.
Having got the main business of the evening over, Tony was surprised by Derick
reading a very heart warming tribute to him which was so nice and he was then
presented with a gift of an indoor remote controlled helicopter. Tony was de-
lighted with this as he is very much into remote controlled “toys”. I must say I
was a little alarmed when it started whizzing round the lounge but luckily he man-
aged to avoid all the ornaments. Members also gave us some cash to take our-
selves out for a meal which was a very kind gesture.
Following this we had a “Call My Bluff” quiz, organised by Jo & Derick Nobbs
and Isabel. This produced much laughter as I don‟t think any of us knew any of
the strange words produced so that those who did get some right did it purely by
guesswork. Jenny Madges took some good photos which hopefully Peter can find
room for in the mag. All in all, it was a very good evening.
April seems to be a very prolific month for birthdays. Our best wishes go to :-
2nd Derick Nobbs: 4th Brian Cole: 11th Jeff Caddy: 13th Becky Pointer:
15th Carol Taylor: 19th Marian Clark: 23rd Gwen Buckell…..and, dare I mention
it, on the 15th Tony & I will be Celebrating our Diamond Wedding !!!
Happy Easter to you all, Jeanne.
15
A Tribute to Tony Turvill
By Derick Nobbs
Thank you for agreeing to accept me as your new chairman, and for my first task I
have been asked to read a few lines relating to Tony.
We have all become used to hearing the phrase `I don't have much to say to-
night' from Tony when he addresses our meetings. Well tonight is different, in
that paying our tribute to Tony upon giving up his chairmanship of Newbury
Heartbeats; we DO have something to say.
Tony has had an active and varied life, but what concerns us tonight is the last 12
years, yes 12 years, that Tony, ably assisted by Jeanne, has been the Chairman
and guiding light of the Newbury branch of Heartbeats.
Our branch was started in 1998 at a meeting held in the Charles Clore unit, where
a committee was elected, with Tony as Chairman and Jeanne as Secretary/
Treasurer, and they are the only two members of the original committee remain-
ing in the Newbury branch today.
The attendance and enjoyment displayed by our members at our monthly meeting,
speaks volumes for Tony's efforts on our behalf. His success in the pursuit of
likely candidates for membership, underlines his unstinting devotion to the cause
of providing support for all those who have experienced or been affected by heart
treatments. - -
Most of us only see Tony ensuring the doors to the hall are opened and the tables
and chairs set out for our meetings, what we don't see is the amount of work he
carries out as our Chairman behind the scenes. The hiring of the hall, liaising with
Reading and representing our interests on policy, procedures and outings, fund
raising and all other aspects relating to the running of our branch, are ultimately
part of Tony's responsibilities.
Tony will no doubt assert that he has been ably assisted by Jeanne and his various
committee's over the years, but we all realise, and thank him, for being such a
great figurehead for our membership during his time as chairman.
Before Tony is surprised and embarrassed further, with a presentation from his
current committee, will you all now please join me with three cheers, to show our
appreciation for all his good work.
Hip Hip Hooray x 3
16
Tony Turvill - A Friend
When I was first asked if I would pen a short tribute to our retiring Chairman Tony Turvill, my first thoughts after sadness that Tony had
decided to ‘Stand down’ was, ‘How can I make it short, when there is
so much to say about Tony?’
Peter and I first met Tony and Jeanne Turvill in the Summer of 2003,
at probably the lowest ebb in our lives. The adrenalin that had kept us going since Christmas 2002 when Peter first showed signs of what
we were to learn was, heart problems, (which ultimately led to a triple
heart bypass in April of 2003); had drained away. We were both left
with so many emotions. Great relief of course that Peter was well
again, but also a strange feeling of, What Now'?
It was quite by chance that I met a friend, Isobel Trent while Peter
was waiting in the Path Lab at the old Newbury Hospital. I broke
down and poured out all these mixed emotions to Isobel. I had no
idea the solution would prove to be so simple. Isobel smilingly said.
"Why not join us at the next Heartbeats meeting?" This is what we decided to do. (Nothing ventured, Nothing gained).
This was, of course the first step to emotional recovery from Heart
Surgery. At that-first meeting, at the Charles Clore Unit we were
greeted, by Tony's welcoming smile and handshake. Ever vigilant of
the company around him, Tony was immediately aware of the initial
hesitation of a new member. That initial greeting draws you into the
company of a group of people who have shared and understood the
same problems, and make light of the problems, and seldom refer to
them. Yet who will immediately respond if the need is ever there.
Now, seven years on, in paying tribute to Tony Turvill I can look back
and say that Tony is all that Heartbeats has come to mean to us.
Warmth, Friendship, and Hope for the future.
Thank you Tony, we are all happy to have you as a friend
From Olive and Peter Archibald,
Heartbeats, Newbury
10.2.2010
17
Out and About Gardening
by Ken Tudgay
Here we are in April and the weather has improved. Plant late sweet peas now.
Erect a wigwam with canes 8” apart and sow the seeds directly in the ground. In a
few weeks the seedlings will appear. Well water and allow stems to climb. The
flowers will appear in a variety of colours and have an excellent scent. They are
very pleasant in the house if cut regularly.
Make a good start sowing your flowers and vegetable seeds. There is also vital
pruning work to be done, and it is an ideal time to plant new evergreens. Weed
seeds will be germinating everywhere so keep busy with hoe to stop them becom-
ing a problem. Keep birds off the gooseberries and currants with netting to pre-
vent them stripping the buds. Sow Cape gooseberries in the greenhouse to raise
young plants to put outside in early June. Cover strawberries with polythene tun-
nels to encourage early flowering and fruiting. Remember to lift up the sides to
allow ventilation. Also, don‟t forget to ventilate the greenhouse freely on warm
days, but still close them up at night. By now you should have planted some car-
rot seed. Put up a fleece screen or fine netting to keep out the carrot fly. Shallots
should be planted on the shortest day, but if the soil is heavy and too wet it is bet-
ter to wait. Plant 6” apart and leave enough room between rows for the hoe.
Pinch out the tips of your fuchsias to encourage side shoots. Plant gladioli plant
corms outside at intervals from now until May. Sprinkle grow-more or blood fish
and bone around the daffodils and other bulbs. To grow plants like rhododendrons
and camellias in their preferred acid conditions can be difficult. One way to over-
come this problem is to grow them in containers filled with ericaceous compost
and a quantity of vermiculite. By now you should have your dahlias in a tray of
potting compost to encourage the tubers to shoot. From the shoots use a sharp
knife to take cuttings. Insert three cuttings in rooting powder in a 2.5cm pots 1”
deep. In about 3 weeks you should have roots, then when large enough, plant
them in 3” pots and feed weekly. Beware of slugs and snails when the shoots
show. They will be eaten. Peas: Dig over and rake the soil well and plant peas
evenly across a trench 7.5cm apart. Put stakes in and twine for support.
By now I hope you have an early crop of potatoes well chitted. These can be
planted out either in trenches using your com-
post, or well dug and in holes. Spread grow-
more over the ground and slightly earth up.
Hoe and weed broad beans and feed. Watch
out for blackfly etc. Pick out shoots when tall
enough and have flowers. Sow sunflowers in
7.5cm pots, water and cover with polythene
using gardening to change lives
18
retain the heat at a temperature of 13c (55F).
Happy gardening. I hope by now all in the garden is great. Next month is June and
will be a very busy month.
Ken
THINGS YOU DIDN’T KNOW YOU COULD DO WITH A CUCUMBER
Cucumbers contain most of the vitamins you need every day, Vitamins B1,
B2,B3, B5, B6, Folic Acid, Vitamin C, Calcium, Iron, Magnesium, Phosphorous,
Potassium and Zinc.
Feeling tired in the afternoon? forget the caffeine drinks and pick up a cucumber,
it is a good source of B Vitamins and Carbohydrates that can provide a quick pick
-me-up that can last for hours. Been celebrating and had a bit too much to drink?
Eat a few slices of cucumber before going to bed and wake up refreshed. Cucum-
bers contain enough sugar, B vitamins and electrolytes to replenish essential nutri-
ents the body lost, keeping everything in equilibrium thus avoiding both hangover
and headache. Had a meal with garlic or other strong flavours? Take a slice of
cucumber and press it to the roof of your mouth with your tongue for 30 seconds
and it will kill the bacteria in your mouth responsible for bad breath.
Does your bathroom mirror fog up after a shower? Try rubbing a slice of cucum-
ber along it, it will eliminate the fog and produce a soothing, spa-like fragrance.
Looking for a green way to clean your taps, sinks or stainless steel? Take a slice
of cucumber and rub it on the surface to be cleaned and it will remove years of
tarnish and bring back the shine; it won‟t leave streaks and wont harm your fin-
gers. Going out and don‟t have time to clean your shoes properly? Rub a fresh
slice of cucumber over the shoe, its chemicals will provide a quick and durable
shine that not only looks good, but repels water.
Are bugs and slugs ruining your plants? Place a few slices of cucumber in a small
aluminium foil dish and place among the plants. The chemicals in the cucumber
react with the aluminium and give off a scent undetectable to humans but which
drive garden pests crazy.
Got a squeaky hinge? Take a slice of cucumber and rub it along the hinge and the
squeak will be gone. Need to erase ink marks? Take the outside of the cucumber
and slowly rub the area to remove ink. This also works on crayons or marker
pens.
Anon. Are you convinced? ……….
19
Membership of the Group
Our support group is open to patients, their partners and anyone interested in
the support of those with cardiac conditions.
We invite you to come along to one or two meetings, at Calcot, Earley or
Newbury, to learn more about us before deciding to join. Please give your
local secretary a ring to say you are coming. They are:
Reading for Calcot - Branch Secretary, Peter Drew-Clifton
0118 942 6105
Newbury - Branch Secretary, Jeanne Turvill 01635 861 546
Wokingham Woodley & Earley - Branch Secretary, Maureen Reichelt
0118 926 4260
Subscription
The annual subscription is £7.50 per person.
The subscription entitles you, as a member, to participate in our meetings,
social events and to receive our bimonthly newsletter.
If you would like to join, please complete the form on the next page and send
it with your cheque or postal order made payable to The West Berkshire Heart
Support Group to:
Linda Higgs,
WBHSG Membership Secretary,
13 Bourne Road,
Pangbourne,
Reading RG8 7JT
Please do not send cash
Support Co-ordinator
The Support Co-ordinator is available at 0118 984 4758
20
APPLICATION FOR MEMBERSHIP PLEASE USE CAPITAL LETTERS
PATIENT’S DETAILS
TITLE: Dr, Mr, Mrs, Miss .......... FAMILY NAME ...............................................
GIVEN NAME ............................
GIVEN NAME YOU WISH TO BE KNOWN BY................................................
ADDRESS ..............................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................
................................................................ POST CODE ...........................
TELEPHONE NO .........................................
SUPPORT PARTNER’S DETAILS
TITLE: Dr, Mr, Mrs, Miss .......... FAMILY NAME ............................................
GIVEN NAME ............................
GIVEN NAME YOU WISH TO BE KNOWN BY ..............................................
ADDRESS ..............................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................
................................................................ POST CODE ...........................
TELEPHONE NO .........................................
THOSE WISHING TO BECOME SUPPORTERS OF THE GROUP ONLY
SHOULD TICK THIS BOX AND COMPLETE THE SUPPORT PARTNER
DETAILS
SUBSCRIPTION IS £7.50 PER PERSON PER YEAR
Data Protection Acts
Please note that the information you have given is kept safely and confidentially on the
Charity’s computer. The data is used to correspond with members and to send them the
Charity’s newsletter. If you would prefer us not to keep your information in this way,
please advise us.
21
A Scotch with Two Drops
A lady goes to the bar on a cruise ship and orders a Scotch with two drops of water.
As the bartender gives her the drink she says, “I‟m on this cruise to celebrate my
80th birthday and it‟s today…”
The bartender says, “Well, since it‟s your birthday, I‟ll buy you a drink. In fact, this
one is on me”.
As the woman finishes her drink, the woman to her right says, “I would like to buy
you a drink, too.”
The old woman says, “Thank you. Bartender, I want a Scotch with two drops of
water.”
“Coming up,” says the bartender.
As she finishes that drink, the man to her left says, “I would like to buy you one,
too.”
The old woman says, “Thank you. Bartender, I want another Scotch with two drops
of water.”
“Coming right up,” the bartender says.
As he gives her the drink, he says, “Ma‟am, I dying of curiosity. Why the Scotch
with only two drops of water?”
The old woman replies, “Sonny, when you‟re my age, you‟ve learned how to hold
your drink. Holding your water, however, is a whole other issue.”
*****
OLD IS WHEN… An „all-nighter‟ means not getting up to use the bathroom
OLD IS WHEN… A sexy babe catches your fancy and your pacemaker open the
garage door
OLD IS WHEN… „Getting lucky‟ means you can find your car in a parking lot.
Please note the Group Website has been changed to:
www.heartbeats-berkshire.co.uk Type this in the address box and do not use a
search engine or you will get the old web site which is no longer updated
22
Cycling for Health at Palmer Park Sports Stadium
Earlier this year CTC in partnership with Sport Reading started some out-
door cycling sessions around the track at Palmer Park stadium, providing
the opportunity for individuals wanting to become fitter whilst enjoying the
outdoor elements.
The sessions are suitable for any one who just wants to get fitter or lose some
weight, but they also cater for individuals with more specific health problems
such as diabetes, muscular sclerosis and heart conditions.
The sessions run on Mondays 11.30a.m. to 1p.m. and Fridays 10.30am to
12 noon The sessions cost £2.50, which includes use of the bikes and trikes.
N.B. It may be necessary to share bikes when the sessions are busy.
For more information call Helen Biggerstaff on 0118 9015713
Individuals with heart conditions please call Binders on 07900906056 before
attending, as a G.P. referral will be necessary.
Julia Reading BSc (Hons), MChS State Registered Podiatrist & Chiropodist
For all your Foot Health Needs
Tuesdays and Thursdays
Manichem Pharmacy, Goring-on-Thames
& 2a Armour Road, Tilehurst.
Telephone 0118 9394878
Mobile 0774 6472 781
Wednesday, Friday and Saturday morning
Service Yard A, Shop 6, Bracknell.
Telephone 01344 302726
Calluses and Corns, Ingrowing Toenails, Verrucae, Foot Strain,
General Footcare and Foot Health Advice
The Foot Health Clinic
23
CLEAVER CARS ltd Independent Citroën specialists
All makes of cars serviced and MOT
67 Loverock Road,
Reading
Berks
RG30 1DZ
Tel/fax 0118 9576 405
WE RELY ON YOU, SO YOU CAN RELY ON US
Did you know that in July 2008 we took delivery of our new helicopter, the EC135, and because of increasing fuel and leasing costs we must work harder to maintain our income levels to ensure we can provide our 365 day service to all three counties.
This is why we need YOU … to support us, there are many
ways to do this. Win a £1000.00 every Wednesday and save a life? Then join
our TVAC Lottery or perhaps become one of our volunteers,
interested? Then please do call us on: 0300 999 0135
or visit our website: www.tvacaa.org
Charity Number 1084910
24
FREE ADVICE SESSIONS of 15 minutes
First and Third Thursday of every Month
from 4.00pm to 7.00pm
for an appointment at Caversham Solicitors Ltd
Prospect House, 1 Prospect Street,
Caversham, Reading RG4 8JB
Are you looking for legal advice on
DIVORCE or
OTHER FAMILY RELATED ISSUES?
Founder member of QualitySolicitors
Telephone 0118 947 8638
Fixed fee consultations are available on request
Contact Rebecca Williams for details