Newbury, you alright? ☀️

Welcome to your go-to guide for all things Newbury! This newsletter is packed with the latest news, upcoming community events, fascinating facts about our town, and much more. Let’s dive in and explore what’s happening in our vibrant community.

– Urbanova

Newbury Blues Ready for a Fresh Start 🏉

Newbury Blues head coach James McAvoy is optimistic about the new season. After winning the Papa Johns Cup South Shield in Bristol, the team is eager to improve their league performance. Despite an injury crisis that saw fifty players on the field, pre-season training offers a chance to reset. McAvoy is thrilled with the squad's potential, welcoming several new senior players and promising talent from the Colts. With Paul Archer leading the senior academy and Joey Watmore coaching the Stags, the Blues are focused on fitness and skill development. McAvoy aims for consistency, believing that playing to their potential will secure a strong league position.

Community-Driven Coffee Hub Thrives in Newbury ☕️

Max Mcann, 29, transformed an empty retail space into Mcann's Coffee Shop in the Kennet Centre, Newbury, with just £300 and community support. Drawing from his own experiences with food insecurity, Mcann aimed to create a community-focused café. Local businesses donated materials, including marble counters and a dishwasher, while volunteers helped with construction. The café offers free lunches for kids during school breaks and a "pay it forward" system, allowing patrons to fund meals for those in need. Open since April, Mcann's Coffee Shop also donates a portion of its profits to the West Berkshire food bank, truly embodying its mission to serve and uplift the community.

What's Up? 🎉

29/08 - Thatcham's KidsFest: A Summer Finale of Family Fun and Festivities

Get ready for an unforgettable end to your summer! Thatcham’s KidsFest is landing in the town centre on Thursday, August 29, from 10 am to 3 pm. Hosted by the Thatcham Town Council, this free event promises a day packed with family fun. Explore Thatcham Broadway, the High Street, and Turnfields Recreation Ground for activities galore, from fancy dress and inflatables to theatre workshops by The Watermill Theatre. Don’t miss Juggling Jake’s circus fun or the Howden Under 5s Zone. Art lovers can enjoy free t-shirt printing and a doodle zone, while the High Street transforms into a carnival with games and stalls. Join the superhero treasure trail and dress-up competition for a chance to win prizes! Mark your calendars – it’s a day you won’t want to miss! 🎪

Details:

• When: Thursday, August 29 | 10 AM - 3 PM

• Where: Thatcham Broadway, High Street, and Turnfields Recreation Ground

• Cost: Free event

• Activities: Fancy dress, family-friendly entertainment, arts and crafts, inflatables, free t-shirt printing, doodle zone, circus workshops, theatre performances, and a superhero teddy bear treasure trail.

• No booking required – just show up and enjoy the festivities!

Other Events 📅

Featured Local Services🛠️

Keep it local and use businesses that call Newbury home. Every week, we will feature local services that are highly rated and trustworthy.

• Photography - The Captured Moments Co. - Creating timeless photos whether it's for your Weddings, Family albums or Event. I can help create them all! - 07808650562 - Website Link

If you wish to recommend a business to be featured here, please contact us at [email protected].

Tidbits💡

• Community Connection: Take a seat on the new HelloBench in Newbury and make a difference in someone's day. This initiative aims to combat loneliness by encouraging people to sit, chat, and connect with others in their community​ (Round & About Magazine)​.

• Family Fun: Head to Bracknell's new free-play gaming center, High Score, for a day of family fun. This venue offers a variety of games and activities that are perfect for all ages, ensuring a great time for everyone​ (Round & About Magazine)​.

• Creative Activities: Enjoy the new exhibition "Myths & Mythmaking" at Hughenden Manor, exploring Victorian Prime Minister Benjamin Disraeli's imaginative legacy. A perfect outing for history buffs and families alike​ (Round & About Magazine)​.

Did You Know? 

• Highclere Castle: Just a stone's throw from Newbury, Highclere Castle is the iconic setting for the hit TV series "Downton Abbey." The castle has a rich history and stunning architecture, making it a must-visit for fans and history enthusiasts alike.

• Donnington Castle: Overlooking the Lambourn Valley, Donnington Castle dates back to the 14th century. It played a significant role during the English Civil War and offers breathtaking views and picturesque walking trails.

• The Watermill Theatre: Nestled in the countryside, The Watermill Theatre is renowned for its high-quality productions. The theatre's unique setting, in a converted watermill, provides an intimate and charming atmosphere for various performances throughout the year.

Weather ☁️

• Wednesday: 16°C - 29°C, Sunny intervals changing to partly cloudy

• Thursday: 16°C - 28°C, Sunny intervals

• Friday: 15°C - 27°C, Sunny intervals changing to partly cloudy

• Saturday: 11°C - 24°C, Light rain changing to sunny intervals by lunchtime

• Sunday: 14°C - 23°C, Sunny intervals changing to partly cloudy

• Monday: 13°C - 22°C, Overcast

Sports 🏃‍♀️

Newbury Cricket Club

Upcoming Matches: 03/08 - Finchampstead CC 3rd XI vs 1st XI | 2nd XI vs Finchampstead CC 4th XI | Cove CC 3rd XI vs 3rd XI

Thatcham Cricket Club

Upcoming Matches: 03/08 - 1st XI vs Theale and Tilehurst CC 1st XI | Henley CC 3rd XI vs 2nd XI | 3rd XI vs Fleet CC 2nd XI

Thanks for Reading! 

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Any enquiries, please contact us at [email protected]