Community Connections by Caroline Gratrix –
During lockdown, kind hearted local candle maker Ruth Martin suspended production of her candles to make hand creams for local NHS workers.
Ruth, along with neighbour and friend Antonia from Antonia Taylor PR, crowdfunded locally to raise the funds to make and donate an astonishing 700 bottles of hand cream. The recipients were NHS staff at The Royal Berks, Sue Ryder Duchess of Kent Hospice and Frimley Park Hospital.
RUTH, tell us a bit about you?
I have a small business, Cucumber Wood Candles, named after a lovely local woodland. I hand pour every candle, and each one is made simply with soy wax and essential oils.
How long have you lived in Caversham?
I moved to Caversham nearly 20 years ago, but didn’t come far as I have lived in Reading all my life!
What’s your favourite thing about Caversham?
I’d say my favourite part is the people! We live in the friendliest road and have a street party every year and, with 3 children myself, I’ve got to know so many locals through the schools and multitude of clubs that I ferry them to and the shops we go to.
Caversham’s best coffee shop?
I love our new café, The Collective. It looks so lovely on the corner of St Anne’s Road, and has a great range of homewares and the chance to have a quality cuppa too!
Where to eat in Caversham?
Oh gosh, what to choose?! For years we’ve gone to Quatro’s and I think for service and great quality Italian food they have is just right, also a Lounge Breakfast at Alto Lounge can’t be beaten!
Where to shop in Caversham?
Art Jam and Made by Tamalia are lovely if you want to go somewhere to make and create, and I love the warm welcome you get with them. I couldn’t live without Cara! Edd and the team are so friendly and are they are so positive about Caversham.
If you could bring anything to Caversham, what would it be?
Wouldn’t it be great to have an independent cinema, I think that would go down so well here. Also it would be wonderful if we could have a little second hand book shop. Please!