Thanks to the support of more than 500 volunteers and corporate partners, the Wokingham-based charity wrapped over 22,000 gifts for 3,180 children facing hardship.

Each present was carefully chosen and placed in a handmade Christmas sack, ensuring that families who might otherwise have nothing can experience the magic of Christmas morning.

Every gift was donated by our community for local families, making this initiative a true reflection of kindness and solidarity. For many children, these sacks may be the only gifts they receive, offering not just joy but a reminder that they are valued and cared for.

The Cowshed extends heartfelt thanks to everyone who donated, wrapped, crafted and delivered, helping bring hope and festive cheer to thousands of families across the borough.

CLASP has partnered with HelloBench to unveil the first of 20 new community benches, the first of which was unveiled at Howard Palmer Park as part of CLASP’s 20th anniversary celebrations.  

The Wokingham Town Mayor and local MP Clive Jones joined members of CLASP and volunteers for the ribbon-cutting ceremony, marking the start of a borough-wide initiative to encourage conversation, connection and mental wellbeing. 

Each HelloBench features a plaque and QR code linking to the Hub of Hope, the UK’s largest mental health support database. The benches are designed to create welcoming spaces where residents can chat and access support easily. More benches are planned for parks including Joel Park, Cantley Park, Elms Field and Lower Earley. 

Debs Morrison, CEO of CLASP Wokingham, said: “Our 20th anniversary is not just a time to reflect on our past achievements but also to look forward to how we can continue to support and enrich our community - and raise awareness for the learning disabled in our borough.

"By sponsoring these HelloBenches, we hope to create spaces that encourage conversation and connection among residents.” 

In a candid discussion with hosts CEO and founder, Jane Holmes, and head of PR, Melissa Paulden, Sir Ed shares the emotional and practical realities of caring, calling for urgent policy changes to support millions of families.

“The system just fails to recognise that fairly obvious self-evident point… carers are often the last thing people consider, they should be the first,” said Sir Ed.

The episode explores early identification of carers, the shortcomings of Carer’s Allowance, and the need for real respite care.

Jane Holmes added: “Families repeatedly tell us they feel forgotten by the system.”

Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Audible and more.

Whether it’s memories on the water or adventures on land, these experiences will help create a special photo book capturing the charity’s first 25 years.

This commemorative collection will be unveiled at a birthday party on 15 September 2026, where contributors will also be entered into a prize draw.

The centre has been a hub for inclusive watersport activities, offering opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to enjoy paddling and connect with nature. Now, it’s time to reflect on the journeys, friendships and fun that have shaped its history.

Stories and photos can be submitted by emailing office@wokinghamwatersidecentre.com by 1 August 2026. Submissions may also be shared on social media and the centre’s website.

Residents looking for a meaningful New Year’s resolution may want to consider volunteering. It’s a great way to improve wellbeing while making a positive difference in the community. 

The Wokingham Volunteer Centre is hosting a Volunteer Recruitment Fair on Saturday 31 January from 10am to 1pm at Wokingham Town Hall. A wide range of organisations will be there, offering roles to suit different interests and skills. 

Groups attending include The Link Visiting Scheme, Thames Hospice, ABC to Read, Guide Dogs for the Blind, ASD Family Help and Citizens Advice Wokingham. Other charities provide support in areas such as mental health, domestic abuse, conservation, transport and mentoring. 

The event is free and open to everyone. No booking is required – simply drop in and explore how volunteering could work for you. 

To find out more about volunteering in the borough, visit the Wokingham Volunteer Centre’s website, call 0118 977 0749 or email volunteer@wok-vol.org.uk. 

It was a chance for our community’s future leaders to ask the questions that matter most to them and engage directly with MPs Clive Jones and Yuan Yang, alongside representatives from the Conservatives, Green Party, Labour, Liberal Democrats and Reform, as well as borough and town councillors.

The evening sparked meaningful conversations on issues close to young people’s hearts—climate change, youth employment, council finances, immigration, and how national decisions shape life in Wokingham Borough. Attendees even took part in a mock vote at the start and end of the event.

If you’re aged 12–18 and want to help shape the future of Wokingham Borough, join the Youth Council by emailing youthvoice@wokingham.gov.uk to get involved.