31. Queen’s award for Sondrel

A Theale technology firm has proved it is at the forefront of innovative thinking after winning the UK’s leading accolade for business success.

32. Get the Business: Sheabutter Cottage, Sonning

What is your business about? “We manufacture hand-made, natural, Faitrade beauty products and toiletries including exotic butters, cosmetics and oils.

33. Pubwatch Awards - The Fox and Hounds

Great atmosphere and friendly staff could help the Fox and Hounds in Tilehurst defend its title in this year’s Reading Pubwatch Awards.

34. Pubwatch Awards - The Griffin

A traditional look and tasty grub are reasons enough to sing the praises of The Griffin in Caversham, said one regular.

35. French Horn wins top 10 place in foodie guide

A swanky Sonning restaurant is among the very best in Britain, according to those in the know.

36. Nightmare for RBS call centre staff facing axe

Call centre staff have lost their jobs after Royal Bank of Scotland announced it is to close its Theale base.

37. Business profile - Positive Interiors

38. Promise our economy is starting to recover

The head of the Confederation of British Industry (CBI) has reassured Reading’s business leaders that “the economy is recovering”.

39. Abbey windows charity challenge

A Reading double glazing firm has come up with a smashing charity challenge to celebrate 25 years in business.

40. New DIY store is making a splash

Wickes staff celebrated the opening of their new Reading store on Saturday December 19.