Anuszka Ransley, Author at Woodley Town Council

Town Council News Post

Armistice Day 2025

Thank you to everyone who attended our annual Armistice Day and those who laid a wreath

Our thanks go to Rosemary Edgington, Chairman of the Winnersh and District Royal British Legion, who read the Exhortation to the Fallen and recited the Kohima Epitaph. We also thank her for her help to organise the event.

Thank you also to Woodley Town Mayor, Cllr David Bragg, for his moving words, summarising the importance of Armistice Day.

At the Eleventh hour on the eleventh day of the eleventh month; we will remember them and the sacrifices they made to give their Todays for Our Tomorrows.

“At 11 o’clock on the 11^th November 1918 the Armistice was signed bringing an end to the fighting of the First World War. To mark this occasion, we hold a 2-minute silence every year at this time.

Woodley Town Council is proud to provide this service each year, and I would like to thank Rosemary Edgington from the Royal British Legion in Winnersh for their help and support in arranging this event.

We gather here today in solemn reflection to honour those who gave everything for our freedom. In silence, we remember not only those who gave their lives or were wounded but also the families who waited patiently praying for the safe return of loved ones, and to all those who served on the home front, in military production, emergency and other equally valuable services. Their sacrifice echoes through generations, reminding us of the cost of peace. Today we wear our poppies with pride, not just in remembrance, but also in gratitude. Let us carry their legacy forward – in our words, our actions, and our commitment to unity. May their memory forever guide us toward a world of compassion, justice and enduring peace.

As Woodley Town Mayor I am honoured to stand before you today as your representative and I wear my poppy with pride as a symbol of remembrance and hope for a positive future and peaceful world.

Thank you.”

Anuszka Ransley November 11, 2025 0

Town Council News Post

Quiz Night for a Cause: Woodley Comes Together to Support SHARE

Over £2,000 Raised for SHARE Woodley at Mayor’s Charity Quiz Night

The Mayor’s charity quiz for SHARE Woodley brought the community together for a night of fun, competition, and giving. With every ticket sold, supporters helped raise money for the charity, which works tirelessly to fight food insecurity and reduce waste.

Founder and CEO Claire Revie welcomed guests, sharing the story of SHARE, its Woodley branch, and the vital support it provides to local families each week.

The quiz was expertly led by Cllr Juliet Anderson, the previous Woodley Town Mayor, who guided participants through seven rounds of brain-teasing questions. The bar was busy, the raffle popular, and all the activity was supported by the dedicated SHARE team.

Victory went to the Valiant Vikings, who took home a hamper of goodies generously provided by the past Mayor herself.

“I was delighted to support my chosen charity SHARE Woodley and work with Carolyn Wildman, lead for the Woodley branch, to run such a successful quiz evening. A good time was had by all,” said Cllr Juliet Anderson.

Thanks to the generosity of donors, ticket buyers, and volunteers, the event raised over £2,000 for SHARE Woodley – a tremendous boost for the local community.

“We’re thrilled by the turnout and generosity shown at this year’s Mayor’s Charity Quiz. It was a fun and lively evening that brought people together in friendly competition for a great cause. The funds raised will help us continue to support the local community, and to invest in new fridges and freezers, which will allow us to save even more good food from going to waste.

“We’re extremely grateful to Cllr Juliet Anderson for choosing us as her charity and organising the event along with the Woodley Town Council team, and to every single person who attended, volunteered, donated or cheered us on. Together, you helped make the night such a huge success,” said Carolyn Wildman, Share Wokingham Trustee, and Site Lead for Woodley.

Save the Date

Looking ahead, current Woodley Town Mayor Cllr David Bragg will host his Mayor’s Charity Quiz Night on Friday 27 February 2026, raising funds for his chosen charity, Promise Inclusion. Tickets will go on sale in the New Year – so get ready for another night of fun for a great cause!

Anuszka Ransley November 5, 2025 0

Town Council News Post

Woodley Town Council To Host its Second Community Climate Action Week

Together for Tomorrow: Local Action, Global Impact – Be the Change

Woodley Town Council is proud to launch its second Community Climate Action Week on Saturday 15 November, uniting residents under the theme “Together for Tomorrow – Local Action, Global Impact.”

The week invites everyone in Woodley to Be the Change – to take part, learn, and discover how local efforts can make a global difference.

Climate Action Week Launch Day Inspires Local Action

A packed opening day will feature three free community events:

Be the Change – Community Litter Pick

10am-12pm
Oakwood Centre, Woodley
Take part in Woodley’s Community Litter Pick with Woodley Adopt A Street (WASP), because small actions create big change. All equipment is provided. Please click here to register your place. Volunteers will meet at the Oakwood Centre and then head to assigned streets. Booking is essential to organise groups.

Wear the Change – Charity Fashion Show

1-2pm
Centre Stage, Woodley Town Centre
Step into sustainable style at our fashion show hosted and organised by Thames Hospice Woodley shop, featuring pre-loved outfits from its store in the town centre, with help from Waingels’ students. This exciting event proves fashion doesn’t have to cost the earth. With every outfit, we celebrate recycling, reimagining, and reducing waste. No booking required – just turn up and enjoy! Complimentary tea, coffee, and hot chocolate provided.

Voice the Change – Local Action, Global Impact

3-5pm
Oakwood Centre, Woodley
Join us for a powerful community conversation on climate, featuring Woodley Town Council’s initiatives, advice on how to afford climate change from Citizens Advice Wokingham, and the much-anticipated keynote talk by Professor Chris Merchant, Professor in Ocean and Earth Observation at the University of Reading. Professor Merchant’s presentation, Our Climate Future, will unpack the key science and facts behind global warming, why it matters, and how every voice can help shape change. The event includes a Q&A session and complimentary tea, coffee, and cake. Booking is essential as there are limited tickets available. Please click here to register your place.

Daily Family Activities

Children can join the Kids’ Eco Nature Hunt, with prizes to be won, helping our youngest residents learn that small actions create a big impact.

Throughout the week, Woodley Town Council will also be sharing a Daily Pledge, with facts about what the Council is doing to support sustainability and a handy “Tip of the Day” to inspire residents to take action.

“This week is about showing that when we come together as a community, our local actions really do create global impact. By working with our local schools, shops, groups, and residents, we are building something that goes beyond a single event. Community Climate Action Week is about creating a shared movement that belongs to everyone in Woodley, because tackling climate change requires all of us,” said Kevin Murray, Woodley Town Council Town Clerk.

The Council sees this collaboration with local partners – schools educating the next generation, shops leading on sustainable fashion, and residents stepping forward to take part – as essential to its vision of a greener, more resilient town.

The launch day promises to be an energising start to a week filled with events, from repair cafés to school projects, all demonstrating that climate action is not only necessary but achievable when tackled together.

All events are free to attend, but spaces for bookable events are limited. All information is available on our website.

Anuszka Ransley October 21, 2025 0

Town Council News Post

Have Your Say: Proposed 20mph Speed Limit on Woodlands Avenue

Woodley Town Council would like to make residents aware of a proposal from Wokingham Borough Council to introduce a 20mph speed limit along part of Woodlands Avenue in Woodley.

The proposed change would apply from a point 15 metres west of the junction with Fairwater Drive and extend eastwards for approximately 720 metres. The Borough Council has explained that the intention is to help lower traffic speeds and enhance safety for all road users, particularly as this stretch of road runs through a residential area and forms part of an important active travel route.

Residents are invited to view the full details of the proposal online, or in person at Wokingham Borough Council Offices, Shute End, Wokingham, during office hours.

Comments, whether in support of or objecting to the proposal, can be submitted to the Borough Council either in writing to the Traffic Management Team, Wokingham Borough Council, Shute End, Wokingham, RG40 1BN, or online via its Engage Platform. The deadline for responses is 23:59 on 20th October 2025.

“We know that roads like Woodlands Avenue are used every day by drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians, including families and schoolchildren. We encourage residents to look at the details of this proposal and share their views directly with Wokingham Borough Council. Your feedback is an important part of the consultation process,” said Cllr Bill Soane, Chairman of Planning & Community Committee.

Anuszka Ransley September 29, 2025 0

Town Council News Post

Annual Return & Audit 2024-2025

Anuszka Ransley September 29, 2025 0

Town Council News Post

Mayor’s Charity Quiz Night – Tickets Now on Sale!

Tickets now available for the Mayor’s Charity Quiz Night to Raise Funds for SHARE Woodley

Residents of Woodley are invited to put their knowledge to the test at the Mayor’s Charity Quiz Night on Friday 24 October, from 7:00pm to 10:00pm at the Oakwood Centre. The event will raise money for the previous Mayor’s, Cllr Juliet Anderson, chosen charity, SHARE Woodley, a local organisation dedicated to providing food, essentials, and support to those in need within the community.

Tickets are now on sale, but hurry as numbers are limited. They can be booked individually or as a table for up to eight people, via TicketSource and are priced at £6.50 per person with a 55p booking fee.

The evening promises a lively atmosphere with a cash bar, nibbles provided, and a raffle offering a variety of prizes, with all proceeds going directly to the charity. Attendees are encouraged to bring cash for raffle tickets on the night.

The Mayor is also appealing for donations of raffle prizes to help maximise fundraising. Anyone who can contribute is asked to contact Cllr Juliet Anderson ([email protected]), or the Town Council ([email protected]).

“This quiz night is about bringing the community together for a great cause. SHARE Woodley does incredible work supporting local families, and we hope to raise vital funds while enjoying a fun and friendly evening,” said Cllr Juliet Anderson, former Woodley Town Mayor.

Event details:

Date: Friday 24 October 2025
Time: 7:00pm – 10:00pm
Venue: Oakwood Centre, Woodley
Tickets:
£6.50 (plus 55p booking fee)
Booking: Individuals or tables of up to 8
On the night: Cash bar, nibbles, raffle (cash for tickets)

Anuszka Ransley August 22, 2025 0

Town Council News Post

Woodley Town Council celebrates hugely successful Party in the Park

Hundreds of residents enjoy free family fun, live music, and a vibrant community atmosphere in Woodford Park

Woodley Town Council is delighted to announce that this year’s Party in the Park was an overwhelming success, drawing hundreds of residents to the award-winning Woodford Park on Saturday, 16 August. The free family fun day brought the community together for an afternoon of live music, children’s entertainment, and activities for all ages in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

The park was filled with laughter, music, and smiles as families gathered to enjoy the free community event. The Kidzone proved to be one of the most popular attractions of the day, with children eagerly taking part in circus skills provided by Circus Scene, enjoying entertainment from Bertie Slippers and Professor Cump, and getting creative with the Arts4Wokingham recycled art workshops. Parents praised the family-friendly atmosphere, with many attendees sharing with staff how much they enjoyed the event.

Following the success of their performance at the King’s Coronation celebration, Leader returned to the stage, keeping the crowd dancing and singing along with a lively mix of music to suit all tastes.

The event was described by many as one of the highlights of the summer, with its vibrant family atmosphere and inclusive approach.

Cllr David Bragg, Woodley Town Mayor, praised the success of the day, saying:
“It was wonderful to see so many families and residents enjoying themselves at Party in the Park. The atmosphere was truly joyful and full of laughter, music, and togetherness. Events like this highlight what makes Woodley such a special place to live: a strong sense of community and opportunities for everyone to come together and celebrate.”

Cllr Keith Baker, Woodley Town Council Leader, added:
“Events like Party in the Park are vital to building a strong sense of community. It’s about giving something back to our residents, creating spaces where families can come together, enjoy time outdoors, and connect with neighbours, all at no cost. Especially during times when many are feeling financial pressure, we’re proud to offer a day of joy that’s truly accessible to all.”

Woodley Town Council extends a heartfelt thank you to all who attended and contributed to making Party in the Park such a memorable success.

Anuszka Ransley August 18, 2025 0

Town Council News Post

Woodley Marks VJ Day 80 with Community Reflection Event

On Friday 15 August, the people of Woodley came together for a special free community drop-in day to reflect, remember, and honour the 80th anniversary of VJ Day – the day in 1945 when Japan surrendered, bringing the Second World War to an end.

Visitors were invited to watch information videos, explore displays about VJ Day, and view a unique collection of memorabilia kindly gifted by Roy and Pam Hannington. The collection included photographs, a copy of a wartime ration book, Roy’s father’s ID card, and a letter Roy wrote to his father during the war. These personal items were shared alongside Roy’s vivid memories of growing up in wartime London, enduring air raids, coping with rationing, and celebrating peace.

“VJ Day reminds us not just of the end of conflict, but of the resilience, sacrifice, and humanity that carried people through those dark years. Today we were privileged to hear Roy’s personal memories and see treasured artefacts that bring history to life for us all. My heartfelt thanks go to Roy and Pam Hannington for their generosity in sharing them, and to everyone who joined us to remember and reflect,” said Cllr David Bragg, Woodley Town Mayor.

VJ Day 80 is a significant milestone, marking eight decades since the conclusion of the Second World War in the Pacific. While Victory in Europe (VE) Day had been celebrated earlier in May 1945, fighting continued in Asia until Japan’s surrender on 15 August 1945. The day is an opportunity for communities across the UK to honour the service and sacrifice of those who fought in the Far East, as well as the families who supported them at home.

Woodley Town Council would like to extend its gratitude to everyone who attended today’s event and contributed to making it a meaningful and memorable occasion.

Anuszka Ransley August 18, 2025 0

Woodley-Council-Lydia-Victoria-Photography0022

Town Council News Post

Have Your Say on the Future of Woodley’s Local Services – Woodley Town Council Launches Precept Survey

Woodley Town Council is calling on all local residents to have their say on the future of Town Council services by responding to a new community survey about the Town Council Tax element they pay each year. The feedback gathered will help shape how the Council plans its budget and delivers services for the 2026/27 financial year.

Over the past 13 years, Woodley Town Council has worked hard to minimise the financial burden on residents. The Council has delivered a 0% increase in the Town Council Tax for the last three years, and a total reduction of 7%(not adjusted for inflation) since 2011. Despite rising costs and increasing pressures, the Council remains committed to maintaining and improving the services that matter most to the community.

Current Precept Amount

Currently, the average Band D household pays £106.69 per year (£8.89 per month) to support local services and facilities including:

Woodford Park, Malone Park, Wheble Park & Bulmershe open space
The Garden of Remembrance, Reading Road allotments & Centre Stage
Woodford Park Leisure Centre and Gym on the Park
The Oakwood Centre & Alan Cornish Theatre
Coronation and Chapel Halls
Youth support services
Community events, town centre activities, and commemorations
Local grants for community organisations

We know how important these local facilities and services are to the people of Woodley. That’s why we’ve worked diligently to keep the Town Council Tax as low as possible without compromising the quality of what we provide. However, like all organisations, we are now facing increased costs. This survey gives you the chance to tell us directly how you would like us to move forward, whether that’s maintaining the current service levels or investing more in your community,” said Cllr Keith Baker, Leader of Woodley Town Council.

Choose How Much You Are Willing to Contribute to Support Local Services

Starting 11 August 2025, every household in Woodley will receive a copy of the survey by post, giving all residents the opportunity to participate. The deadline to respond is 12 September 2025.

The Council is inviting residents to choose one of five options that reflect how much more, if anything, they would be willing to contribute per month to maintain or enhance services:

+89p per month
+53p per month
+18p per month
0p per month
I believe my contribution should decrease.

Responding couldn’t be easier, simply tick your preferred option on the consultation card and post it in your local Royal Mail post box. No stamp is required, though using one will help save the Council money.

Come To the Public Meeting

Following the consultation, a public meeting will be held at the Oakwood Centre, where the results will be shared and discussed with residents.

Your voice matters. The more responses the Council receives, the better informed its decisions will be. Let’s shape the future of Woodley together.

For more information and to view the full precept details, please visit our Precept Page.

Anuszka Ransley August 11, 2025 0

Town Council News Post

Woodley Town Council’s New Youth Services Programme to Launch This Autumn

Targeted and Inclusive Activities for Woodley's Young People

Woodley Town Council has taken a significant step towards strengthening youth engagement and support by approving a diverse programme of youth services set to launch this autumn. The initiative, shaped by the Council’s Youth Support Services Task & Finish Working Group, brings together three experienced providers to deliver a range of targeted and inclusive activities for young people in the community.

Following a series of discussions by the working group and approval at an extraordinary Leisure Services Committee Meeting on 15 July, a package of youth services is to be funded within the Council’s 2025/26 youth budget of £15,000. The chosen offerings include:

Targeted Intervention Programme: Designed for vulnerable 12 to 15 year-olds identified by a multi-disciplinary team. This programme will offer structured support including mentoring, diversionary activities, and reporting on individual outcomes.
Youth Club Sessions: Weekly youth club sessions on Friday evenings during school terms, offering recreational and developmental activities in collaboration with young people themselves.
Holiday Activity Programme: Enriching holiday experiences for children aged 9–16 from low-income households.

The Councill will be working in partnership with the Storyy Group, Berkshire Youth and Wokingham Borough Council’s Holiday, Activities and Food team to deliver the programme.

“We’re excited to launch this new youth programme for Woodley. By combining targeted intervention with inclusive activities and leadership opportunities, we are taking a meaningful step toward building confidence, resilience, and community spirit in our young people. This is a long-term investment in the next generation, and we’re proud to be delivering something that reflects their needs and voices,” said Chair of the Youth Support Services Working Group, Cllr Kay Gilder.

Youth Strategy

The new services align with the Council’s recently updated Youth Strategy. which commits to providing a flexible, activity-led programme of youth services which is delivered within the town or accessible to its residents.

The new youth provision is expected to begin in the autumn term, with a new Youth Service Sub Committee setup to monitor the service and guide future development of the programme.

Anuszka Ransley July 17, 2025 0

Town Council News Post

Share Your Views On New Cycle Route in Woodley

Have Your Say by completing Wokingham Borough Council's Survey

If you live in the Woodley area, or travel frequently between Woodley and Reading, Wokingham Borough Council wants to hear about how you get around.

The Council is asking about people’s travel habits before it starts work on a new cycle link from Woodley town centre to Palmer Park, at the Reading borough boundary.

The new link will run via Woodlands Avenue, Church Road, Palmerstone Road and Culver Lane, with work due to start later this year.

It’s being funded by the Department for Transport and the money is ‘ring fenced’ for this project, meaning the Council isn’t allowed to spend it on anything else.

Complete the Survey by 12 midnight, Sunday 3 August, for the chance to win one of five £20 vouchers. Note, you must be aged 16 or over.

Complete The Survey

Anuszka Ransley July 17, 2025 0

Town Council News Post

New Water Bottle Filling Station Installed in Woodley Town Centre Thanks to Rotary Club Support

A Greener Future

Woodley Town Centre has taken another step towards a greener future with the installation of a new water bottle filling station, generously supported by a joint donation from the Rotary Club of Loddon Vale and Reading Maiden Erlegh. This new facility offers free, fresh drinking water to residents and visitors alike, encouraging the use of reusable bottles and helping to cut down on single-use plastic waste.

A Boost for Sustainability and Community Wellbeing

Strategically located in a busy area of the town centre, the filling station aligns closely with Woodley Town Council’s Climate Emergency Action Plan, which aims to make the town more environmentally sustainable through practical, everyday solutions. The Council has committed to reducing carbon emissions and promoting eco-friendly behaviours, and this initiative represents a tangible step in that direction.

Brian Fennelly, Town Centre Manager, welcomed the development, saying: “This is a fantastic addition to our town centre. It not only provides a practical service for shoppers and visitors, but also supports our shared vision for a cleaner, greener Woodley. We’re very grateful to the Rotary Club for their generous support in making this happen.”

Cllr Keith Baker, Chairman of the Strategy & Resources Committee, added: “The installation of this water bottle filling station is a clear example of Woodley Town Council’s ongoing commitment to tackling climate change. By reducing single-use plastics and encouraging sustainable practices, we’re investing in facilities that support both the environment and the wellbeing of our community.”

Rotary’s Ongoing Community Support

Scott Trathen of the Rotary Club of Reading Maiden Erlegh explained how the initiative reflects Rotary’s broader environmental goals:

“The idea to donate a refill station came from the shared aspirations of two local Rotary clubs – Loddon Vale and Maiden Erlegh. We’re proud to support our local communities and promote sustainable living. Reducing plastic waste is critical, and we’re delighted to work with Woodley Town Council to make a lasting difference. We hope everyone passing through the precinct takes full advantage of this facility.”

Rotary Clubs continue to be a pillar of community support in Woodley and Earley and always welcome new members or volunteers. Learn more at www.readingmaidenerlegh.org.

Looking Ahead

On behalf of Woodley Town Council, Cllr Keith Baker, Council Leader, extends his heartfelt thanks to the Rotary Club of Loddon Vale and Reading Maiden Erlegh for their support and partnership.

“This initiative marks another important milestone in the Council’s climate action journey and its mission to create a more sustainable, accessible, and community-focused town.”

Anuszka Ransley July 16, 2025 0