Pete Wheeler

Throwing incredible live events and club nights, Pete has been the heartbeat of Reading’s music scene since 2007 said his nominator for The Chris Tarrant Award, sponsored by The Oracle.

He has brought both local legends and big names like Disclosure, Grandmaster Flash and Barry from EastEnders to town, they said.

“From running the epic CUBED & Skint Mondays nights with Chris Wells (where you could catch sets from Groove Armada, Duke Dumont, and even The Chuckle Brothers!) to booking mind-blowing acts at The Oakford, South Street, Sub89 and for Readipop Festival, Pete’s passion for both music and community has been nonstop.

“More recently, Pete’s been busy organising the entertainment at community-driven events like Cheese Feast and Disco Abbey with the gang at Blue Collar in 2023.”

“His current projects include booking and promoting Riverbeats and Readipop Fiesta this summer and spinning at PULSE, a monthly club night he runs that absolutely packs the Turtle’s dance floor.

“Pete’s also all about lifting up local talent and students,” they added. He is mentoring the next generation of promoters through Reading Electronic Music Society and volunteering his time giving DJ lessons to local young people with Readipop and The Prince’s Trust.

“Pete’s a patient, nurturing teacher which I know firsthand as he was even kind enough to teach me how to DJ. I now have my own gigs which he champions at every opportunity,” said the nominator.

“A champion of music, collaboration, and community spirit, Reading wouldn’t be the same without him.”

Pete has also been nominated for the Legacy Award, sponsored by Vale & West, Putting Reading on the Map, sponsored by The Purple Turtle and Jacobs the Jewellers and Cultural Contribution, sponsor M&G Real Estate.