31. Telecom giant new in Theale

Telecoms giant Acision UK has announced plans for a new company headquarters at Arlington Business Park.

32. Hoteliers unite to help shape future

Twelve of Reading’s leading hoteliers have joined forces to form a new group designed to get involved in the town’s future.

33. Removals business expands

A Reading vehicle hire firm has continued to drive forward with the opening of a second office.

34. Yell suspends shares payout

Yellow Pages owner Yell Group yesterday suspended dividend payments to shareholders in a bid to reduce debt.

35. Broad Street John Lewis in sales gain

John Lewis Partnership said department store sales rose 7.5 per cent two weeks ago after an "excellent” showing for the group’s fashion division.

36. ‘Big increase in house buying activity’

Following the Government’s temporary increase in the starting threshold for stamp-duty announced last month, local estate agent Romans reports a big increase in the number of

buyers looking for property up to the new threshold of £175,000.

37. 99p store opens

The town’s newest store celebrated its opening  by entertaining the public.

38. Pick bananas fit for a king

Customers will go bananas for the brand new layout of a greengrocer’s shop.

39. £14.5 million key worker flats open

Much-needed homes for the town’s key workers have been officially opened at the multi-million pound Chatham Place development.

40. Beautiful dresses for brides on a budget

Vivienne Cowen runs her own showroom in Emmer Green selling designer wedding gowns at affordable prices.