What's on today in West Berkshire
Of course, it is one of the biggest days in the local racing calendar as Newbury Racecourse hosts the Hennessy Festival, to which 30,000 people and a host of celebrities are expected to attend.
The highlight of the three-day festival will undoubtedly be the historic Hennessy Gold Cup today, in which Lambourn trainer Nicky Henderson has two entries, outsiders Triolo D’alene and Hadrian’s Approach.
Those with a passion for fashion will also be catered for, with a row of ‘upmarket shops’ being set up next to the Parade Ring.
Also today is a Christmas craft fair is being held by West Berkshire Mencap to bring in funds for its charity. Proceeds will go towards much-needed funds to support leisure activities for adults with learning disabilities living in West Berkshire.
The fair is being held at the West Berkshire Mencap centre at Enborne Gate, Enborne Road, from 11am to 3pm.
Local traders, including jewellery, Avon beauty products, home-made preserves, cakes, books, woodwork, silk and glass artwork, and chalkboards, plus refreshments and tombola will all be on offer, with free entry.
Meanwhile, in Cold Ash, people can visit a Christmas bazaar for the Newbury & District Cat Adoption Centre.
The annual event is being held at the Acland Hall between 1pm and 4pm.
Christmas gifts and goodies will be on sale, running alongside the game and refreshment stalls and a raffle. Proceeds will be donated to adoption centre.
For those wanting to make a start, or even finish off their Christmas shopping, head to Parkway where another new store is opening its doors. Tres Luna, owned by local resident Carrie Mainwaring, the woman behind Luna Too boutiques in Marlborough and Hungerford and the recent pop up Luna Boutique in Newbury’s Kennet Centre, now has a permanent unit in the shopping centre.
Moving away from the Christmas festivities, the MP for north west Hampshire Sir George Young is holding an advice bureau for constituents in Kingsclere, at Kingsclere Village Club, George Street, from 10-11am. Constituents may book an appointment by calling (01264) 401401.
