The annual Muddy Stilettos Berkshire Awards have once again spotlighted the best of local businesses, showcasing the vibrant and diverse talent across the region. This year, there’s a special mention for some of the standout winners in Reading and Caversham, whose offerings bring unique character and charm to the area. From arts and beauty to lifestyle and food, these businesses have made their mark.

Arts, Culture & Theatre Venue: Rabble Theatre (Caversham)

Leading the way in the arts scene, Rabble Theatre has won the award for the best Arts, Culture & Theatre Venue. Based in Caversham, this dynamic theatre company is renowned for bringing exciting and innovative productions to local audiences, blending classic and contemporary theatre with a fresh twist.

Beauty Salon / Clinic: Rebalance Skin (Caversham)

For those seeking skincare excellence, Rebalance Skin in Caversham has been recognised as the top Beauty Salon / Clinic. With a focus on personalised treatments, this salon offers high-quality care that leaves clients feeling rejuvenated and glowing.

Florist: 7 Flowers & Tea (Reading)

Bringing a unique combination of floral artistry and tea, 7 Flowers & Tea in Reading has secured the award for best Florist. Known for its exquisite flower arrangements and soothing tea selection, this local favourite creates the perfect blend of nature and relaxation.

Lifestyle Store: NOOD Stores (Reading)

Reading’s NOOD Stores has been crowned the top Lifestyle Store, offering a curated selection of sustainable, eco-friendly products. This is the go-to place for shoppers who prioritise style with an ethical edge.

Women’s Fashion / Accessories: Puzzle Designs (Reading)

When it comes to fashion, Puzzle Designs in Reading leads the way. With a wide array of stylish women’s clothing and accessories, Puzzle Designs has earned its award for bringing a fresh and contemporary approach to fashion.

Beyond Reading and Caversham, other Berkshire hotspots also earned recognition:

• Bar: The Shambles (Windsor)
• Boutique Stay: Braywood House (Winkfield)
• Café: Stables Speciality Coffee Co. (Arborfield Green)
• Casual Dining: El Cerdo (Maidenhead)
• Children’s Business: The Little Gym (Windsor)
• Destination Pub: The Belgian Arms (Holyport)
• Event Venue: Hillfields Farm (Upper Basildon)
• Family Attraction: Feathers and Fur Falconry Centre (Warfield)
• Farmshop / Deli: Loic’s Deli (Crowthorne)
• Fitness Instructor: Natalie Jenner, Sweaty Mama (Newbury)
• Hair Salon: Grace Amelia Studios (Bracknell)
• Hotel: The Retreat at Elcot Park (Newbury)
• Local Food / Drink Producer: Windsor and Eton Brewery (Windsor)
• Restaurant: Damson Restaurant (Winterbourne)
• Wine & Beer Specialist: A Hoppy Place (Windsor and Maidenhead)
• Yoga / Pilates Studio: Wellness Pilates (Woolton Hill)

However, as anticipated, it’s noticeable that no businesses from the Reading West area, particularly along Oxford Road, were shortlisted this year. This absence is reflective of the growing concern among many local residents, who feel that the area has been overlooked in terms of investment and development. Many perceive a lack of attention from the council in Reading West compared to other parts of the town, contributing to a sense of neglect.

Despite this, the recognition of businesses across the rest of Berkshire is a testament to the hard work and creativity thriving in the region. Here’s hoping that future awards will shine a light on every corner of Reading, including those that currently feel left behind.

Congratulations to all the winners!

Reading is among the ten most frustrating places to drive in the UK.

The study, conducted by car insurance experts at Marshmallow, ranked Reading as the seventh most frustrating place for drivers, with only Bradford, Wolverhampton, Swindon, Oxford, St Albans, and Peterborough faring worse.

Researchers assessed key metrics such as number of parking spaces, average commute times, fuel costs, vehicle expenses and the availability of electric vehicle (EV) chargers to determine the rankings.

In Reading, the average car costs over £26,366. While the town has a relatively high density of EV chargers—159 per 100,000 residents—it has no NCP car parks, which typically allow drivers to obtain a ticket upon entry and pay later.

Other cities in the top 10 include Leeds, Middlesbrough, and Huddersfield. Bradford topped the list as the most frustrating city to drive in, with an average commute time of 44 minutes and just 39 EV chargers. Reading’s average commute time of 36 minutes is notably high given the town’s size.

In contrast, Manchester was identified as the most driver-friendly city in the UK. Despite its longer commutes and higher car prices, Manchester offers the most parking spaces and EV chargers, with 63 chargers per 100,000 people.

In summary, Reading ranked seventh on the list of the UK’s most frustrating cities to drive in, with an overall score of 2.70 out of 10.

It’s disappointing to see Reading ranked among the ten most frustrating places to drive in the UK. This unfortunate distinction highlights the ongoing challenges that drivers face, from lengthy commute times to a lack of adequate parking options. For a town with such a rich history and vibrant community, it’s frustrating that these persistent issues are not being adequately addressed, making daily commutes and travel a source of stress rather than convenience for its residents.

In the wake of recent far-right riots in the UK, it’s more important than ever to highlight stories that celebrate unity, acceptance, and the richness that diversity brings to our communities. Today, we are excited to share an inspiring video from Darren, a resident of Reading, who beautifully illustrates how embracing cultural diversity has profoundly enriched his life. Through his experiences, Darren shows us that our differences are not something to fear, but rather something to cherish and learn from. Join us in listening to his heartfelt message about the power of diversity to build stronger, more compassionate communities.