FROM scenic parks, to great views of the Thames and great shopping (when there isn't a pandemic going on) there are lots of things to love about living in Reading.

To shine some light on these positives, we asked readers what their favourite things about the town are, and the answers will make you glad you're a local.

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Responding to Facebook posy "Tell us why Reading is a great place to live or visit", the beautiful walks sprung to mind for Kelly Ferguson, who said: "I moved out of Reading but frequently come back with my children and fiancée for nice walks.

"The Thames, Dinton pastures, prospect Park.

"My kids also loved palmer Park when we lived in Reading and Caversham park."

Nick Byard recalled the pre-pandemic days and the great entertainment on offer, commenting: "Pandemic aside, we have a really good live swing dancing scene, lots of live jazz and the live comedy scene is growing.

"Lots of great things to look forward to and throw yourself into when all this is over!

"Reading is somewhere you big enough for you to experiment in lots of things but small enough to feel part of a community."

Vanessa Whitaker also enjoys the scenery in and around the town, adding: "I love Caversham, taking a walk around the Thames or hopping on a Thames river cruise, swimming or paddle boarding in Caversham Lakes, the Thames Lido, the variety of shops and restaurants, great transport links and going on walks in the beautiful countryside just outside of Reading."

For some, it's the great shops on offer that make the town special, with people living outside Reading visiting for this reason.

Tony Dodd said: "As an outsider, I've always enjoyed visiting the Oracle", while James King said: "Independent businesses and charities - that is if you stray away from the chains in Broad Street.

"Great transport links in and out of the town."

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Yvonne Crocker also appreciates the transport in Reading, and said: "Excellent Transport links.

"Not using at the moment but trains and buses good frequency and good motorway links."

Michael Smith said: "It has the beautiful river thames and canal and great train system."

The people of Reading were given praise by Siddarth Verma, who said: "It's beautiful and you always feel safe on the streets.

"People are so kind and humane."