Good Afternoon, Newbury! ☀️

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

Thousands Flock to Newbury for Quacking Good Time at Duck Race 🦆

This past Sunday, Newbury’s annual duck race drew thousands of enthusiastic spectators to the canal. Organized by the Newbury Lions, the event saw all 1,000 rubber ducks sold out well in advance. With one quirky duck sporting glasses and red lips, the race kicked off near the Lock, Stock, and Barrel pub.

As the ducks floated towards the finish line at Victoria Park, the crowd followed eagerly along the canal path, cheering on their feathered favorites. The winners, Wendy Napier, John Black, and Debbie Smith, generously donated their prizes back to the Lions’ welfare fund.

Margo Payne, former president of Newbury Lions, praised the event’s success, noting the fantastic turnout and the humorous commentary from Kennet Radio. The funds raised, expected to exceed £1,000, will support local welfare initiatives, making a significant impact on the community.

The Lions are now gearing up for their next big event: a fireworks display at Newbury Racecourse on November 2nd.

Meteor Shower Incoming!

For those of you that missed the Delta Aquariids meteor shower last night (around 2am) that blessed the UK skyline, don’t worry, another meteor shower is scheduled to light up our skies on the 12th/13th of August. This meteor shower named the Perseids shower which NASA describes as the "best meteor shower of the year". More info to come closer to the date!

What's Up? 🎉

31/07 - Nature Rocks! Family Fun at Shaw House

Hey parents, ready to let your kids' creativity run wild? Swing by Shaw House on July 31st for a hands-on art adventure! Kids can grab paint pens and decorate stones with their favourite animals, minibeasts, birds, or plants. Whether your little one loves a buzzing bee or a blooming flower, they can create a masterpiece to take home and display.

The event runs from 10 AM to 3 PM, and it's a steal at just £2.50 per child. Aimed at kids aged 7-11, but all ages are welcome – just make sure an adult sticks around. No need to book, just drop in and join the fun!

Plus, explore two wildlife-themed trails as part of our summer Family Activity Days. Don't miss out on this chance to blend art and nature in a fun-filled day! 🌿🎨

Details:

• When: Wednesday, July 31 | 10 AM - 3 PM

• Where: Shaw House, Newbury, Berkshire

• Cost: £2.50 per child

• No booking required – just show up and get creative!

Get Ready for a Wild Adventure with "The Jungle Book"!

Heads up, theatre lovers! Our Infant and Junior Youth Theatre is bringing the jungle to life with their rendition of "The Jungle Book." Join Mowgli, Baloo, and Bagheera as they navigate through the wild, encountering crafty snakes, mischievous monkeys, and the fearsome Shere Khan.

This timeless tale of friendship, bravery, and the quest for freedom, adapted by Kathryn Schultz Miller from Rudyard Kipling’s classic, promises to captivate audiences of all ages.

Don't miss out on this exciting adventure – it's a perfect family outing!

Details:

• What: Youth Theatre presents "The Jungle Book"

• Who: Mowgli and his jungle pals – Baloo, Bagheera, and more!

• Why: A story of friendship, courage, and wild adventures

• When: See local listings at the Corn Exchange Newbury (https://shorturl.at/VUs8P)

• Supported by: Rivar Ltd.

Join for a journey deep into the jungle – it's going to be a wild ride! 🌿🐍🐻

Other Events 📅

Tidbits💡

• Boost Your Garden: Did you know Newbury hosts regular workshops at the West Berkshire Museum on sustainable gardening? These sessions offer tips on eco-friendly practices, including composting and water conservation, perfect for green thumbs looking to make their gardens more sustainable and productive​ (Newbury Racecourse)​.

• Newbury Business Spotlight: The local startup, EcoThrift, has been gaining traction for its innovative approach to sustainable living. Offering products made from recycled materials, they have become a favorite among eco-conscious consumers. Supporting local businesses like EcoThrift not only helps the environment but also boosts the local economy​ (Vanlife & Overlander Celebration)​.

Did You Know? 

• Newbury’s Racing Royalty: Home to the renowned Newbury Racecourse, established in 1905, famous for the Hennessy Gold Cup and year-round events, including concerts.

• Historic Market Town: Newbury's market heritage dates back to the 11th century. Every Thursday and Saturday, the town centre thrives with vibrant market stalls, continuing a tradition over 800 years old!

• Greenham Common: Once a military base during the Cold War, Greenham Common is now a beautiful public park with stunning walking paths and rare wildlife sightings.

Weather ☁️

• Tuesday: 17°C - 31°C, Sunny changing to partly cloudy by night time

• Wednesday: 17°C - 30°C, Sunny intervals changing to partly cloudy

• Thursday: 15°C - 28°C, Sunny intervals

• Friday: 16°C - 24°C, Sunny intervals changing to overcast by night time

• Saturday: 14°C - 22°C, Drizzle changing to cloudy by late morning​

Sports 🏃‍♀️

Newbury Cricket Club

Thatcham Cricket Club

Thanks for Reading! 

We hope you enjoyed today's Newbury newsletter. If you did, please share it with your friends and family. Have a wonderful week!