The RG10 Podcast - featuring the people, places and events of interest across our area of the Thames Valley

The RG10 Podcast

Interviews, information and entertainment with a focus on the RG10 area and surrounds. This special corner of Berkshire includes Twyford, Wargrave, Charvil, Knowl Hill and Hurst, with the larger towns of Reading, Wokingham and Maidenhead close by and Henley-on-Thames just across the river in Oxfordshire. Listen in or watch on YouTube as we catch up with interesting people, attend local events and celebrate our local communities.

  1. Happy Hours: The pre-school that helped raise a village - #18/2

    4d ago

    Happy Hours: The pre-school that helped raise a village - #18/2

    After nearly six decades at the heart of Twyford village life, Happy Hours Pre-school is preparing to close its doors. In this episode of The RG10 Podcast, we hear from Kate Cromar, who has spent 20 years helping to shape the pre-school and support generations of local families. Kate shares the story of Happy Hours from its beginnings as a community playgroup, and how early years education has evolved over the decades. The conversation also explores the emotional decision to close Happy Hours as Polehampton School prepares to open its own nursery, what this means for the community, and the values Kate hopes will be carried forward into the new setting. Along the way, she recalls memorable moments, the lasting relationships formed with families, and the rewarding experience of seeing former pupils grow up and thrive. A heartfelt look back at a cherished local institution and the people who made it special. Sponsorship opportunity: Raise awareness of your business with the RG10 Podcast audience by sponsoring an episode or a series. Request details: https://rg10mag.com/contact/ You can also: - Share the podcast with others - Leave a review on Apple Podcasts - Rate the RG10 Podcast on Spotify - Follow the show on your preferred podcast platform - Subscribe to the RG10 Podcast on YouTube for the video version. https://rg10mag.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/rg10-marketing/ https://www.youtube.com/@RG10Marketing https://www.facebook.com/RG10mag https://www.instagram.com/rg10mag

    10 min
  2. From Twyford to the world? Quest Comp's race for cash and glory #18/1

    Jun 4

    From Twyford to the world? Quest Comp's race for cash and glory #18/1

    What if winning a cash prize wasn’t down to luck—but your own skill, strategy, and problem-solving ability? In this episode, Ben speaks with Quest Comps founders Paul Williams and Jaime Cox about their new competition concept that combines adventure, puzzles, public transport, and real cash prizes. Inspired by shows like Race Around the World and traditional competition sites, Quest Comps is creating challenges where contestants race to solve clues and reach the finish line first. The conversation explores their first event, Race to London, where participants travel from Berkshire to Central London using only public transport, uncovering clues along the way. Paul explains the vision behind the business, why he wanted to move beyond luck-based competitions, and how future quests could expand across the UK—and even around the world. Jaime shares his thoughts on marketing the concept, the growing demand for real-world experiences away from screens, and how Quest Comps hopes to support charitable fundraising through future events. In this episode: The story behind Quest Comps How Race to London works Why skill-based competitions are different from raffles Future plans, including Land’s End to John O’Groats and global challenges The role of public transport, clues, and strategy Charity fundraising opportunities Marketing a completely new competition format Could this be the future of adventure competitions? Relevant links: www.questcomps.com Sponsorship opportunity: Raise awareness of your business with the RG10 Podcast audience by sponsoring an episode or a series. Request details: https://rg10mag.com/contact/ You can also: - Share the podcast with others - Leave a review on Apple Podcasts - Rate the RG10 Podcast on Spotify - Follow the show on your preferred podcast platform - Subscribe to the RG10 Podcast on YouTube for the video version. https://rg10mag.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/rg10-marketing/ https://www.youtube.com/@RG10Marketing https://www.facebook.com/RG10mag https://www.instagram.com/rg10mag

    12 min
  3. The Henley Arts Trail and a YouTube sensation - #17/6

    Apr 12

    The Henley Arts Trail and a YouTube sensation - #17/6

    This week on the RG10 Podcast, we’re diving into the colour, creativity, and community behind the Henley Arts Trail as it celebrates its 20th anniversary. Host Ben sits down with artist and venue lead Liz Chaderton — a painter, teacher, and YouTuber whose videos have racked up millions of views from her garden studio in Hurst. Liz shares how a local art class during lockdown turned into a global online audience, what it really means to make a living as an artist, and why she’s passionate about opening up the creative world to everyone. They also explore what makes the Henley Arts Trail so special — from its mix of professional and first-time artists, to the unique venues and the growing number of visitors discovering the event each year. Whether you’re an art lover, a curious local, or someone who’s never quite picked up a paintbrush, this episode offers a warm and honest look at the people and passion behind one of the area’s most loved events. Relevant links: https://www.henleyartstrail.com/ https://lizchaderton.co.uk/ https://www.youtube.com/c/LizChadertonArt Sponsorship opportunity: Raise awareness of your business with the RG10 Podcast audience by sponsoring an episode or a series. Request details: https://rg10mag.com/contact/ You can also: - Share the podcast with others - Leave a review on Apple Podcasts - Rate the RG10 Podcast on Spotify - Follow the show on your preferred podcast platform - Subscribe to the RG10 Podcast on YouTube for the video version. https://rg10mag.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/rg10-marketing/ https://www.youtube.com/@RG10Marketing https://www.facebook.com/RG10mag https://www.instagram.com/rg10mag

    24 min
  4. The Grammys, Tom Jones... and Wargrave - #17/5

    Mar 30

    The Grammys, Tom Jones... and Wargrave - #17/5

    This week on the RG10 Podcast, we’re joined by world-class trumpet player Nick Etwell - a musician whose career spans jazz, soul, and some of the biggest stages on the planet. Born in Reading with strong ties to the RG10 area, Nick has played everywhere from the Royal Albert Hall to Madison Square Garden, and toured with artists including Mumford & Sons, Tom Jones, and Foo Fighters. And he's coming to Wargrave on Thursday 16 April! We chat about life as a session musician - the highs, the hustle, and the reality behind the glamour - plus the story of how The Blues Brothers helped shape his musical journey. There’s also a brilliant behind-the-scenes moment involving The Stone Roses' Ian Brown and a banana... Nick also tells us what to expect from his upcoming live show in Wargrave, where his quartet will bring a mix of funky grooves, jazz standards, and soulful energy. Expect stories from the road, insight into the music industry, and plenty of laughs along the way. Don’t miss the Nick Etwell Quartet live at The Woodclyffe Hall in Wargrave on Thursday 16 April 2026. https://rg10mag.com/event-calendar/nick-etwell-quartet-jazz-gig/ Tickets - £20 To buy tickets, call Lesley Etwell on 0118 940 4611 or email laetwell@aol.com. Sponsorship opportunity: Raise awareness of your business with the RG10 Podcast audience by sponsoring an episode or a series. Request details: https://rg10mag.com/contact/ You can also: - Share the podcast with others - Leave a review on Apple Podcasts - Rate the RG10 Podcast on Spotify - Follow the show on your preferred podcast platform - Subscribe to the RG10 Podcast on YouTube for the video version. https://rg10mag.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/rg10-marketing/ https://www.youtube.com/@RG10Marketing https://www.facebook.com/RG10mag https://www.instagram.com/rg10mag

    16 min
  5. Twyford Together Awards 2026 - #17/4

    Mar 19

    Twyford Together Awards 2026 - #17/4

    In this special episode, we celebrate the heart and soul of the village at the Twyford Together Community Awards 2026 — an inspiring evening dedicated to recognising the people, groups, and businesses who go above and beyond to make Twyford such a vibrant place to live. From selfless volunteers and standout local businesses to community groups that bring people together, these awards shine a spotlight on those who truly make a difference. Organised by Twyford Together, the annual event invites residents to nominate their local heroes, with finalists celebrated at a ceremony each March.  In this episode, we take you behind the scenes of the 2026 awards — sharing stories of dedication, community spirit, and the unsung heroes who brighten everyday life. We’ll explore what makes these awards so special, hear highlights from the night, and reflect on the power of local connections in building a stronger community. Whether you’re a long-time resident or new to the area, this is a celebration of everything that makes Twyford… Twyford. Links: https://twyfordtogether.org/ https://www.facebook.com/twyfordtogether Sponsorship opportunity: Raise awareness of your business with the RG10 Podcast audience by sponsoring an episode or a series. Request details: https://rg10mag.com/contact/ You can also: - Share the podcast with others - Leave a review on Apple Podcasts - Rate the RG10 Podcast on Spotify - Follow the show on your preferred podcast platform - Subscribe to the RG10 Podcast on YouTube for the video version. https://rg10mag.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/rg10-marketing/ https://www.youtube.com/@RG10Marketing https://www.facebook.com/RG10mag https://www.instagram.com/rg10mag

    17 min
  6. Glass Half Full - #17/3

    Mar 2

    Glass Half Full - #17/3

    In this episode, we sit down with Simon Fisher, founder of Glass Half Full, a hybrid wine shop and bar bringing an eclectic, premium selection of bottles to the heart of Twyford. Simon shares how a long-held dream became a reality at exactly the right stage of life. We talk about the nerves and doubts that come with starting from scratch, the importance of community support, and why the presence of independent businesses on our high streets matters more than ever.  You’ll also hear: * Why being able to *try before you buy* changes the wine experience * How Glass Half Full is making wine more inclusive and less intimidating * The difference between supermarket shelves and independent wine sourcing * Simon’s personal picks for a standout white, red, and sparkling wine. Whether you’re a wine lover, an aspiring entrepreneur, or simply someone who enjoys stories about people backing themselves, this episode is a reminder that sometimes the best time to go for it… is now. Sponsorship opportunity: Raise awareness of your business with the RG10 Podcast audience by sponsoring an episode or a series. Request details: https://rg10mag.com/contact/ You can also: - Share the podcast with others - Leave a review on Apple Podcasts - Rate the RG10 Podcast on Spotify - Follow the show on your preferred podcast platform - Subscribe to the RG10 Podcast on YouTube for the video version. https://rg10mag.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/rg10-marketing/ https://www.youtube.com/@RG10Marketing https://www.facebook.com/RG10mag https://www.instagram.com/rg10mag

    9 min
  7. Untitled Episode

    Mar 2

    Untitled Episode

    This week on the RG10 Podcast, we’re joined by world-class trumpet player Nick Etwell — a musician whose career spans jazz, soul, and some of the biggest stages on the planet. Born in Reading with strong ties to the RG10 area, Nick has played everywhere from the Royal Albert Hall to Madison Square Garden, and toured with artists including Mumford & Sons, Tom Jones, and Foo Fighters - and he's coming to Wargrave on Thursday the 16th April. We chat about life as a session musician — the highs, the hustle, and the reality behind the glamour — plus the story of how The Blues Brothers helped shape his musical journey. There’s also a brilliant behind-the-scenes moment involving The Stone Roses' Ian Brown… and a banana. Nick also tells us what to expect from his upcoming live show in Wargrave, where his quartet will bring a mix of funky grooves, jazz standards, and soulful energy. Expect stories from the road, insight into the music industry, and plenty of laughs along the way. Don’t miss the Nick Etwell Quarter live at The Woodclyffe Hall in Wargrave on Thursday, 16th April. https://rg10mag.com/event-calendar/nick-etwell-quartet-jazz-gig/ Tickets - £20 Call Lesley Etwell on 0118 940 4611 Email Lesley Etwell laetwell@aol.com Sponsorship opportunity: Raise awareness of your business with the RG10 Podcast audience by sponsoring an episode or a series. Request details: https://rg10mag.com/contact/ You can also: - Share the podcast with others - Leave a review on Apple Podcasts - Rate the RG10 Podcast on Spotify - Follow the show on your preferred podcast platform - Subscribe to the RG10 Podcast on YouTube for the video version. https://rg10mag.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/rg10-marketing/ https://www.youtube.com/@RG10Marketing https://www.facebook.com/RG10mag https://www.instagram.com/rg10mag

    16 min
  8. The River Thames Society - #17/2

    Feb 16

    The River Thames Society - #17/2

    The Thames is more than just a river. It’s regattas in Henley, walks along the towpath, boating through the locks, wildlife at sunrise, and communities built around the water.  In this episode of The RG10 Podcast, we speak with Greg Wilkinson, Chairman of the Middle Thames branch of the River Thames Society, about why this part of the river matters so much and the work being done to protect it. We also address the challenges. Flooding, sewage discharge, ageing infrastructure and concerns about river health are very real issues. But alongside those pressures, there’s energy, commitment and a growing community determined to safeguard the Thames for future generations. This is a conversation about pride, responsibility and optimism — and about making sure the river remains at least as good for those who come after us as it is today. Relevant links: https://www.riverthamessociety.org.uk/ Interview conducted on 10th February 2026. Sponsorship opportunity: Raise awareness of your business with the RG10 Podcast audience by sponsoring an episode or a series. Request details: https://rg10mag.com/contact/ You can also: - Share the podcast with others - Leave a review on Apple Podcasts - Rate the RG10 Podcast on Spotify - Follow the show on your preferred podcast platform - Subscribe to the RG10 Podcast on YouTube for the video version. https://rg10mag.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/rg10-marketing/ https://www.youtube.com/@RG10Marketing https://www.facebook.com/RG10mag https://www.instagram.com/rg10mag

    11 min
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About

Interviews, information and entertainment with a focus on the RG10 area and surrounds. This special corner of Berkshire includes Twyford, Wargrave, Charvil, Knowl Hill and Hurst, with the larger towns of Reading, Wokingham and Maidenhead close by and Henley-on-Thames just across the river in Oxfordshire. Listen in or watch on YouTube as we catch up with interesting people, attend local events and celebrate our local communities.

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