News

Our news is collected from our network of members, and is updated regularly. We also present information and articles from other sources that might be relevant to your kind of group.

  • First look at the new Reading Central Library

    11 July 2025First look at the new Reading Central Library

    New Computer Generated Imagery, or CGI, show how the new library could look when it opens in spring 2026 and the Council is seeking residents’ opinions and how important some prospective services are. Still under construction at the Civic Centre in Bridge Street, the new building will also include a redesigned reception. In the library there will be a substantial area dedicated to children, which will be decorated with a lush forest and animal theme with plenty of books.

  • Commemorative plaque added to mark Jane Austen’s former school

    24 June 2025Commemorative plaque added to mark Jane Austen's former school

    Reading is celebrating 250 years since the birth of famous writer Jane Austen. A new plaque has been put up on the Abbey Gateway to remember when Jane Austen attended the Reading Ladies Boarding School from 1785 to 1786. She was 9 years old when she started at the school. The new plaque replaces an older one that was in a locked garden, behind the Abbey Gateway.

  • BiomeBakery Calling for participants aged 60-75 years old

    24 June 2025BiomeBakery Calling for participants aged 60-75 years old

    Are you interested in knowing whether a prebiotic fibre enriched bread roll can improve your memory and mood? Take part in the BiomeBakery study, please go to: https://research.reading.ac.uk/cinn/biomebakery. The study will involve: -Completing telephone surveys -Consuming a bread roll for 12 weeks -Undertaking cognitive, mood and finger-prick blood tests at the University of Reading. We are recruiting till end November 2025.

  • Exhibition tells story of local people and the River Thames

    23 June 2025Exhibition tells story of local people and the River Thames

    A new exhibition opened at the Royal Berkshire Archives on Wednesday 11 June. It will run until Friday 29 August. It tells the story of people who live, work, and have fun on the River Thames. You can see old records, from the first people who lived near the river to people who use it today. One part of the exhibition shows how the river has inspired artists and writers. You can see poems, photos, and drawings.

  • Make/Sense Theatre’s Creative Assembly present ‘Wish It!’

    21 June 2025Make/Sense Theatre's Creative Assembly present 'Wish It!'

    Make/Sense Theatre produce theatre for, by and with the neurodivergent community. Providing a safe space for participants to develop their confidence, their self-expression, and their communication and social skills, ensuring their voice is heard. Full of heart, humour, and sequins, “Wish It!” is a joyful reimagining of the classic, “Five Children and It”, celebrating individuality, resilience, and the magic of being true to yourself.

  • Pride of Reading 2025 – nominations open

    30 May 2025Pride of Reading 2025 – nominations open

    Nominations are now open for the Pride of Reading Awards 2025. This is the 21st year of the awards which highlight those who make or have made an impact within our local community. Do you know someone who has made a difference? Categories include: -Local hero -Neighbourhood Champion -Volunteer/s of the Year -The Green Award -Charity of the Year -Community of the Year. See all the categories and make a nomination on the Pride of Reading website at www.porawards.co.uk/nominate. Nominations are open until 1 August 2025.

  • Volunteers’ Week 2025 is almost here!

    29 May 2025Volunteers’ Week 2025 is almost here!

    Volunteers’ Week is an annual UK-wide campaign held from the first Monday in June to celebrate and recognise the contributions of volunteers. Throughout next week, we will post a series of Volunteering Experience stories, highlighting the variety of volunteering opportunities available and the diversity of those stepping forward to contribute to our shared goal of making Reading a thriving community, improving and enriching the lives of all.

  • Reading Climate Festival 2025

    29 May 2025Reading Climate Festival 2025

    Wouldn’t it be amazing to live in a healthier, happier, more climate-friendly town? Reading Climate Festival brings two weeks of inspiring free events to our town from Saturday 7 June to Saturday 21 June 2025: -Visit a secret roof garden with fruit trees, veggies and flowers -Join a tour of Reading Hydro or the Green Park Wind Turbine -Get tips for making your home and lifestyle healthier and more climate-friendly -Access free support for schools or small businesses.

  • Free energy advice for people with a learning disability in Reading

    24 May 2025Free energy advice for people with a learning disability in Reading

    Free energy advice for people with learning disabilities is being provided by Reading Mencap thanks to a new partnership with gas distribution network SGN. The partnership was officially announced at a celebration event at Reading Mencap’s offices at Alexandra Road, Reading on Tuesday 13 May. The new project, which will run for 13 months, offers crucial guidance on using energy safely and reducing energy bills.

  • Oxford Road sign wins national recognition

    15 May 2025Oxford Road sign wins national recognition

    A traditional hand-painted sign on Oxford Road has secured gold in the Traditional Sign category at the 2025 Sign & Wrap Awards. The sign sits on the corner of Russell Street and Oxford Road. The design is based on a Victorian street sign that once stood in the same place, and lists the names of shop owners who have traded there since 1829. The idea came from a group of local history volunteers from the Reading Conservation Area Advisory Committee.