Green flags flying across the town

Today I received the news that two of Reading's most beautiful and historically important parks had been awarded Green Flag and Green heritage Site awards.

Forbury Gardens and Caversham Court Gardens have once again been awarded Green Flag status.  This just confirms what I already knew and that is these parks are wonderful additions to the town.

I've known both of them for a very long time. I remember drawing the holly tree in Forbury Gardens during a primary school trip and, when I got married at Reading Town Hall, we had our wedding pictures in it's beautiful surroundings.

I have memories of Caversham Court from when I was little as my grandparents lived in Caversham but my favourite memories are more recent.  I visited several times as mayor and even had a go at Morris Dancing! I also spent a wonderful warm evening with friends watching Progress Theatre's A Midsummer Night's Dream last year.

Both these park are free to enter and enjoy all year round, which I think is very important.  You can have a stroll, enjoy a picnic, relax and enjoy some much needed fresh air.  Our parks benefit both body and mind and should be treasured.

Reading Borough Council Press release:

Green Flag Award recognition for two of Reading’s most popular green spaces 

August 16, 2017 Rachel Dennis

 

TWO of Reading’s most popular open spaces have been recognised as among the best in the country after receiving Green Flag and Green Heritage Site awards.

Once again, Forbury Gardens and Caversham Court Gardens have both received Green Heritage Site awards, which is awarded for parks which have conserved their historical features to a high standard and maintain their historic character and appearance. Green Heritage Site awards are made to sites that have particular local or national historic interest.
To be recognised with a Green Flag award, parks or open spaces have to demonstrate not only that standard is maintained but that continuous improvements are being achieved.

Cllr Sarah Hacker, Lead Member for Culture, Sport and Consumer Services, said:
“I am delighted that yet again, two of our most popular open spaces have been recognised by Green Flag. It is a clear reflection of the hard work put in by both the Council and from voluntary organisations throughout the year to keep these parks in such good condition.
I would like to extend my congratulations to all of those involved in the maintenance of these open spaces for their achievement.”

The Green Flag is recognition of excellence in six important areas: high-quality horticulture, cleanliness, sustainable practices, being welcoming, being safe, and encouraging community involvement.

Deputy Mayors Diaries: Armed Forces Day

Today I was privileged to be invited to attend Armed Forces Day.  In the past I had attended the event to watch the bands, have a look at the stalls and watch the veterans.  This year I am proud to say I helped present 17 veterans with their Veterans Badges.

There was a real mix of veterans ranging from people who served in the 80's to veterans of World War II.  There were Gurkha's being presented  with their badges alongside women who served in the Armed Forces.

There were also stalls presenting information on the support services for veterans. 

The first group I spoke to were the Tilehurst Royal British Legion.They are very active in Reading and are celebrating their 80th year this year! 

I was delighted to hear from the Reading Ex-British Gurkha Association that they have nearly 500 members and that they find Reading a welcoming town.

I also had a friendly welcome from The Forgotten British Gurkha's and it was great to hear about the work they are doing in Reading.

I spoke to SSAFA about the work they do with veterans in Reading. They have 7 volunteers dealing with about 150 cases a year offering support to veterans and their families.  Their cases range from helping homeless veterans to providing visits to elderly veterans.  They work from Brock Barracks.

The 7th Battalion The Rifles were also present.  They also have their base at Brock Barracks and my boys had a great time trying on their kit.

So many people turned out to honour the veterans of Reading despite the pouring rain which just shows the level of support our town offers.

Presenting Veterans Badges

Having a look at the 7th Battalion The Rifles kit (replica of course)

Deputy Lord Leftenant also presented badges

Deputy Mayor Diaries: Reading Water Fest

Well after last nights storms it was a relief to see Reading in one piece!

A few rain showers didn't stop people enjoying the Water Fest though.  We were taken to the Water Fest in a lovely little steam boat. 

We got to see the all the stalls, a brilliant Aslan made for The Abbey School and we then judged the best dressed boat competition.  I was particularly impressed by the Dragon Boat team.  Wow - could they shift!

In amongst the music and entertainment were some lovely works of art and I am very privileged to be attending the  Reading Arts & Music Week opening event next Friday.

Events like this prove what an exciting and vibrant town Reading is.

Teddy Bears Picnic Rhymetime - yay!

After the huge success of the Christmas Rhymetime in the Hexagon, Reading Libraries are going to be running a summertime version.  I am so pleased as we really enjoyed the Christmas one.  It did involve me tearing across town from work and back again but it was worth it.  My youngest thought it was great.

It will be taking place on Wednesday 13^th June at 10.30 near the bandstand.  Children, their carers and their teddies are invited along for about half an hour of songs and the chance to have a picnic (bring your own) in the lovely gardens.

Fingers crossed the weather is kind and I'll see you there!