Parishes Magazine for Aldermaston, Beenham, Brimpton, Midgham, Wasing and Woolhampton ceases publication

The Parishes Magazine, published by the Benefice of Aldermaston and Woolhampton, has ceased publication.

The print newsletter, which has served the surrounding communities of Aldermaston, Beenham, Brimpton, Midgham, Wasing and Woolhampton with news and events updates for many years, finished in December.

But while the magazine will continue in an online form — with an imminent release planned — readers fear its loss will negatively impact more senior residents who are less computer literate.

The Rev Jane Manley confirmed that a loss of advertising income was to blame for the newsletter stopping. She added that the move to online is a positive step in becoming a more eco-friendly benefice.

A number of communities have devised solutions to support readers dependent on print newsletters for their community news, with some residents funding and trialling their own print newsletters.

A Brimpton resident has volunteered to launch their own local magazine in April and aims to cover production costs with advertising revenue.

The new magazine may cover more than one community to make production more economical.

Brimpton Parish Council said it would consider any grant requests submitted by the organisers "favourably".

And residents of Beenham have also recognised the importance of having a regular print newsletter.

A trial Beenham News was recently delivered to households in the area. Beenham Parish Council said discussions are ongoing with neighbouring villages about providing a regular newsletter.

It also confirmed a budget of £1,000 would be available to cover printing costs next year.