Tory councillors are pressuring the ruling Liberals on West Berkshire Council to step up the local road repair programme. A top Lib Dem MP said almost 40 per cent of local roads were “dangerous”, and called on more investment.

Tory leader Graham Jones said around 150 local roads still needed resurfacing, adding: “We need action to ensure that the maintenance programme starts to catch up on this slippage. We know local residents regard this issue as a priority, the council needs to start treating it as one.”

Cattle gridlock

Livestock farmers have entered record numbers of cattle at this year’s Newbury Show. Show organisers have received 520 entries, including big increases in rare breeds, Aberdeen Angus, and British Whites similar to those just introduced on Greenham Common. The previous record was 468 before foot-and-mouth made it more difficult to transport animals.

Factory expansion

New Greenham Park’s infamous 60ft high jam factory, known to locals as Ayer’s Rock for its prominence, is to get bigger. Just months after moving in, the English Provender Company – producers of Very Lazy Garlic and other condiments – has applied for more parking spaces, a new chiller, and office alterations.