Thatcham

02Geography

Thatcham is situated in the valley of the River Kennet and encompasses the Kennet and Avon Canal and the A4 road. The town includes the suburb of Dunstan Park and several villages such as Crookham, Henwick, and Colthrop, along with parts of the former RAF Greenham Common airfield. The Thatcham Reed Beds, located to the south, is designated as a site of Special Scientific Interest.

03History

Thatcham boasts evidence of human occupation dating back to prehistoric times, with claims to being the oldest continuously inhabited place in Britain. The town experienced significant growth in the early 14th century, particularly with the establishment of the Chapel of St. Thomas the Martyr, which is now known as the Old Bluecoat School.

• Mesolithic settlement remains Dating from 8400 to 7700 BCE.
• Norman parish church of St. Mary Largely reconstructed in 1857.
• Thatcham Hundred Ceased to exist in 1121.
• Prisoner of War camp Housed in Thatcham during World War II.
• Population growth From 5,000 in 1951 to 22,824 in 2001.

Thatcham is a historic market town in West Berkshire, England, known for its rich history and proximity to the River Kennet.

04Local Amenities and Governance

Thatcham is served by various primary schools, with Kennet School being the only secondary institution. The town is also home to the International Seismological Centre and the Motor Insurers' Automotive Research Centre, which sets industry standards for vehicle security.

• Transport links Thatcham railway station on the Reading to Taunton line.
• Local sports clubs Includes Thatcham Town Football Club and Thatcham Town Cricket Club.
• Town twinning Thatcham is twinned with Nideggen, Germany.
• Council representation Divided into four wards for West Berkshire Council elections.
• Local employment sectors Light industry, retail, and public sectors.