Katie French

Certified solar eclipse glasses and handheld viewers are in limited supply across Berkshire ahead of the partial eclipse on August 12. Robert Dyas in Wokingham was reported to have stock, while specialist retailers including Widescreen Centre, First Light Optics and Bresser UK were selling compliant products online, though delivery could be too late. Viewers are advised to check for the ISO 12312-2:2015 marking, avoid ordinary sunglasses and unfiltered optical equipment, and call retailers before travelling. Safe alternatives include pinhole projection and other indirect viewing methods, while Maidenhead Astronomical Society will offer a limited number of glasses to borrow at its event in Pinkney’s Green Common.

Reading Men Walking and Talking provides a free, judgment-free weekly walking group for men aged 18 and over in Tilehurst, offering companionship and a setting where participants can discuss mental health without pressure. MP Olivia Bailey joined a walk to show support for the initiative, which is part of a UK-wide network of 88 active clubs. The group highlights the disproportionate impact of suicide and common mental health conditions on men and directs people to services including Samaritans, CALM and NHS Berkshire Talking Therapies.