 Discover Wokingham’s reedbeds with Simon
We’ve been on a countryside side quest to Loddon Park in Woodley with Simon, our Countryside Officer, to uncover the secrets of reedbeds in Wokingham Borough and why they matter more than you might think.
These lush wetland habitats help clean our water, support local wildlife and even play a role in tackling climate change by storing carbon and reducing flood risk.
Watch the video to explore these natural wonders and learn how we’re working to protect and expand them for future generations.
 Pick up affordable school uniforms
If you're looking for affordable school uniforms before the new term begins, First Days Children’s Charity Shop in Wokingham is here to help.
The charity offers clean, good-quality second-hand uniforms, including items with school logos, either free or at low cost to families.
You’ll find the shop at 3 The Courtyard, Wokingham, RG40 2AZ, next to Denmark Street Car Park. It’s open Tuesdays from 11am to 1pm, and Thursdays from 10am to 1pm and 3pm to 6pm.
Donations of outgrown uniforms are also welcome.
If you have items to pass on, you can drop them at several different points around the borough, including at the re3 Recycling Centres in Bracknell (Longshot Lane) or Reading (Island Road), just look for the clearly marked wheelie bins.
 Final chance to register for Solar Together
The registration deadline for Solar Together Berkshire has been extended to Friday 29 August, giving you a little more time to take advantage of this group-buying scheme for solar panels and battery storage.
More than 1,000 Wokingham Borough residents have already signed up, helping to reduce energy bills and support our journey towards becoming a carbon neutral borough.
Solar Together offers a trusted way for homeowners and businesses to access competitive pricing through pre-vetted suppliers. The more people who register, the better the deal for everyone.
Register by 29 August to receive your personalised, no-obligation offer.
 Final reminder: Protect Our Planet writing competition
With a few weeks of summer holidays to go, there is still time for young writers across Wokingham Borough to enter our Protect Our Planet Writing Competition. The deadline is approaching, so don’t miss out.
We are inviting children and teens to share their thoughts, stories or poems about protecting the environment. Whether it is a tale about a recycling robot, a poem about the ocean or a reflection on how we can all do our bit, we would love to hear their ideas.
Age categories are four to seven, eight to 11, and 11 plus.
 New allotments, ready to grow your own
We’re really pleased to share that the first-ever allotment facility for Arborfield and Newland Parish Council is now open, delivered by Crest Nicholson as part of the Arborfield Strategic Development.
Located on Quiller Avenue, this beautiful new site offers 36 plots, on-site parking, composting bays, a traditional orchard, solar-powered tools, a picnic area and even a composting toilet.
It's everything you need to grow your own fruit, vegetables and flowers and enjoy time in nature.
There are several allotments we’ve helped bring forward through new developments, now managed by town and parish councils for residents to enjoy.
A big thank you to Hilary, the Parish Clerk, for adopting this fantastic new space. To join the waiting list, email parishclerk@arborfieldparish.gov.uk or call 07496 819 553.
If you're interested in joining the waiting list or finding out more information about another allotment near you, please contact the respective town or parish council.
Photo by Sharon Lumbar
Thanks to vital volunteers in Maiden Erlegh
A huge thank you to the Wednesday Volunteer team from Earley Environmental Group, who joined forces with Earley Town Council Rangers for a morning of hands-on conservation at Maiden Erlegh Nature Reserve, locally known as Moor Copse.
The team worked hard clearing gullies throughout the woods, vital channels that help manage rainwater, prevent erosion and support biodiversity. Their efforts are helping protect this cherished woodland habitat for future generations.
Next time you visit the nature reserve, take a moment to appreciate the hidden work that keeps it thriving. You can see the volunteers in action and more photos from the day on Facebook.
Head over to the Earley Environmental Group's page for more information about what they do and to get involved.
 Label your black bin for a smoother collection
Is your house number or name and street name on your black bin?
This simple step helps ensure bins are returned to the correct property after collection and makes them easier for you to identify.
Labelling your bin also helps avoid mix-ups, especially in streets where several bins are grouped together or look alike.
It supports our collection crews by helping them work more efficiently and reducing delays.
You can use permanent markers, stickers or printed labels. Just make sure the information is clearly visible from the front of the bin.
Thank you for helping us keep your neighbourhood clean and collections running smoothly.
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