Maidenhead & Windsor

It will certainly be a birthday to remember for one young girl from Belarus as she and seven young friends celebrate with a unique three-dimensional view of Windsor – from bus, boat and ferris wheel!

Svetta and her travelling companions will celebrate her 14th birthday on Sunday August 5 with an action packed day in Windsor – courtesy of the Royal Collection, the Windsor Wheel, City Sightseeing Tours and French Brothers Boats.

The group of teenagers from Belarus are taking in the sights of Windsor as part of their month-long trip to England organised by the charity Chernobyl Children Lifeline which runs recuperative breaks in the UK for child victims of the Chernobyl disaster of 1986.

The charity focuses on the children of Belarus, which received nearly three-quarters of the radioactive fallout from the Chernobyl nuclear explosion – with thousands of children subsequently developing leukaemia, bone cancer and thyroid cancer.

The youngsters’ packed itinerary for the day trip to Windsor starts at 11am with a visit to Windsor Castle. This will be followed at 12.45pm by a City Sightseeing Bus Tour taking in sights such as the Long Walk and Eton College, and a trip down the river on a French Brothers boat at 3pm.

Then it’s time to take a look at the town and surrounding area from a totally different perspective – from a pod on the Windsor Wheel in Alexandra Gardens at 4pm– followed by a birthday tea party at Bella Pasta in Thames Street.

Cllr Elisabeth Barton, chairman of the Visitor Management Forum, said: “We are absolutely delighted to be involved in hosting this very special day out for such deserving children. Businesses here in Windsor have responded magnificently to the invitation to rally round and provide these youngsters with a really memorable day.

“We have been told by the charity that a month spent in this country enjoying our clean air and food gives the children a huge boost – and is estimated to add two years to their life expectancy. That alone makes it all worthwhile – and we will pull out all the stops to make sure everything goes as smoothly as possible on the day.”

Michelle Garner, chairperson of the Chernobyl Children Lifeline, said: “I would like to thank everyone who is organising this day out in Windsor for the girls. I am completely overwhelmed by the kindness shown by everyone involved, and I’m sure the girls will enjoy soaking up the English culture and remember this day for many years to come.”

For further information about the charity visit www.chernobylchildlifeline.org.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Tæppa's Tump Ladies North West Morris dancers are holding their free taster sessions every Tuesday from the 18th September. sessions start at 8p.m. to 10p.m, at Furze Platt Memorial Hall, Furze Platt Road, Maidenhead. We would love to welcome female dancers, no experience needed. Also male or female musicians are welcome to come along and join in our band. We wear traditional clogs as those made in the North West of England, when we perform. We meet up with other teams and dance together during the summer months, attend festivals and have been known to travel abroad to show other countries our traditional English dancing. The idea is to have fun, make new friends and keep fit at the same time. If anyone is interested in trying our free sessions you can call Viv on 01628 823244 or Helen 01628 636453. web site www.taeppastump.freeserve.co.uk

Tæppa's Tump is a Ladies North West Morris dancing group which was formed in early 1981 and based in Maidenhead. Our name was taken from an old term for one of the area's outstanding archaeological sites, the burial mound of "Tæppa" a Saxon chieftain who gave his name to Taplow. The mound was opened at the end of the last century and yielded a collection of Saxon grave goods, which are now in the British Museum and are second only to the Sutton Hoo Burial Hoard.

Every year we give a large part of our street collections to charities, and have given thousands of pounds to good causes over the last twenty-six years. Over the last year Tæppa's Tump collected, and will be donating £384.82 to "The Parapet Trust Fund" for breast cancer. This coming year we have elected to collect for "Rosie's Rainbow Fund". Rosie was eleven years old and very talented, and exceptionally musical. She attended Redroofs Theatre School which was founded by Rosie's grandmother, and run by her family. In December 2002 she became ill and was diagnosed with vasculitis, a rare and devastating illness affecting the blood vessels. She decided while in hospital that when she was better she would raise money for sick children in hospital. Sadly Rosie died in May 2003. After her tragic death, Her parents and sister set up "Rosie's Rainbow Fund", to continue Rosie's dream of helping other sick children.

Why not come and join us, and make a difference to these wonderful charities. Enjoy dancing or playing music along with the band. The team are from all walks of life and all ages. We will make you very welcome.

Tæppa's Tump Ladies North West Morris dancers, Maidenhead

Royal Borough residents have another opportunity to meet their local elected representatives on Saturday August 4 2007.

Maidenhead councillors will be holding their regular surgery between 10am and 12 noon in the council’s mobile facility, which will be located outside the National Westminster Bank, High Street.

The open session - no appointment necessary - means people can drop in and meet the members to discuss local issues, air their views or ask for help and advice. Arrangements can be made for confidential interviews during the morning, if requested.

The next Maidenhead surgery will be held between 10am and 12 noon on Saturday October 6 2007.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

The Windsor and Maidenhead Royal Borough is “bitterly disappointed” at the decision of the Berkshire Fire Authority to axe night-time cover at Windsor Fire Station from next year – and has pledged to continue the fight for a round-the-clock service for its residents.

The fire authority on Wednesday voted to cut staffing at the fire station between 8pm and 8am as part of its Integrated Risk Management Plan – a move which will come into effect some time next year and which the Royal Borough has strongly opposed in recent months.

The meeting resolved that the twelve-hour night service will be provided by firefighters from Slough, halving the current staffing levels at Windsor.

Windsor and Maidenhead Royal Borough councillors have spoken out against the decision – and vowed to work to find an alternative solution.

Windsor and Maidenhead Cllr David Burbage, council leader, said: “We are still committed to fighting for a 24-hour service at Windsor fire station for our residents, and will do all we can to work towards an alternative solution.

“Windsor is the home of Windsor Castle as well as being home to many army families with soldiers stationed at the two barracks in the town. For these and all our other residents we firmly believe that this is the wrong decision, and we will continue to investigate every avenue to maintain round-the-clock cover at Windsor fire station.”

Cllr Christine Bateson, a borough representative on the Berkshire Fire Authority, attended Wednesday’s meeting. She said: “I would like to say a huge thank you to the many Windsor residents who came along to put their strong case for retaining night-time cover.

“The Royal Borough has worked long and hard to persuade the fire authority that Windsor needs its own 24-hour service and will continue to do so.

“We need to find a solution that enables the growing needs of Wokingham to be met while still providing 24-hour cover from Windsor fire station.”

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

The Salvation Army has been responding to severe flooding across large areas of England, since unprecedented heavy rainfall on Friday 20 July. The deluge, affecting Gloucestershire, Worcestershire, Oxfordshire, Wiltshire, Berkshire and Northamptonshire, caused flooding of homes, roads, railways and businesses.

Prime Minister Gordon Brown praised the work of The Salvation Army during a visit to Walham electricity substation, where a team of volunteers has been serving meals and drinks to emergency workers since Monday. Speaking to Major Adrian Stringer, the Salvation Army's Community Services Officer for the West Midlands, the Prime Minister said: 'Thank you for all you are doing here.' He went on to acknowledge the 'invaluable support' The Salvation Army has been providing to firefighters, engineers and military personnel. Mr Brown also spoke briefly with Major Stringer about other relief work The Salvation Army is involved with in flood-hit areas across the south of England.

Oxfordshire and Wiltshire

On Wednesday, the Thames burst its banks in parts of Oxford and Wallingford, and over 300 homes have been evacuated - many to an emergency centre at the Kassam football stadium in the city.

The Salvation Army in Oxford have been providing reassurance and support to residents who have been evacuated. The team there, led by Captain Mark Wolstenholme, has been distributing clothing and footwear to those in most need - including babywear.

The Salvation Army's Uxbridge-based emergency response vehicle is attending the Botley Road area of the city, supporting 90 firefighters who are pumping out water from the area. The emergency vehicle is serving hot and cold drinks and snacks.

A team from The Salvation Army in High Wycombe has also been despatched to assist in Oxfordshire.

In Shrivenham, Wiltshire, The Salvation Army's Red Shield Centre was called into action on Saturday when the main A420 road was closed due to the flooding.

Staff provided an evening meal and breakfast for stranded motorists. When the waters began to recede, staff were also deployed to direct queues of traffic which had built up.

With river levels set to peak throughout Wednesday and Thursday, all Salvation Army officers in the Central South Division (which covers the area from Banbury to Staines) have been placed on standby to assist emergency services and the public if required.

Gloucestershire, Herefordshire and Worcestershire

In Tewkesbury, the Salvation Army hall has been hosting up to 20 people, most of whom are stranded holidaymakers. Much of the town is currently without mains water or electricity, but the Salvation Army hall is unaffected. The local Tesco supermarket has supplied The Salvation Army with sufficient stocks of bottled water and food. The local Morrisons supermarket has also made water available and been a great support. Sleeping bags and clothing are also being distributed. Salvation Army teams from Cheltenham have today made their way into Tewkesbury on foot, bringing essential supplies.

The team in Tewkesbury distributed sleeping bags and changes of clothing on Monday, which involved wading through deep water and using boats to reach those in need.

On Tuesday morning, volunteers operated a 'bacon sandwich run' to those who are still trapped in their homes. Milk is also being distributed to those in greatest need. Families from a nearby holiday park made their way to the Salvation Army hall later on Tuesday to wash clothes and have a hot meal.

Overnight on Saturday 21 July, a request was made for teams to provide support at a rest centre in Evesham. Major Diane Henderson from The Salvation Army in Cheltenham - itself flooded out of its meeting hall - was able to respond to this situation, despatching a team of volunteers to help the 460 evacuees in the centre. The Salvation Army assisted by providing hot food, refreshments and comfort for those who had had to leave their homes. The team, working in shifts, will remain onsite throughout the day and overnight on Monday, offering a full care package. So far this has included walking dogs and providing transport where possible. The Salvation Army officers' residence in Evesham, unused at present, has been brought into action as temporary accommodation.

Meanwhile, Gloucester was submerged under several feet of water and power to the city was been cut. Salvation Army teams from the city and from neighbouring Cirencester, Stroud and Kidsgrove manned an emergency canteen in the Castlemeads car park, providing hot and cold drinks and meals to emergency personnel, including members of the armed forces who had been drafted in to help.

At the Walham electricity substation in the city, a second canteen manned by Salvation Army personnel has been in place since Monday. Major Adrian Stringer received a call from Gloucestershire Fire & Rescue Service at 01:30 requesting assistance. The mobile kitchen has been serving hot food and drinks to 300 firefighters, military personnel, National Grid and Highway Agency engineers who have been involved in continuous battle to protect the substation which distributes power to half a million homes.

Able Seaman Ricky Stenning, one of the naval personnel served, explained: 'We were fed on-site by The Salvation Army which was really good and we had food supplied by the army kitchen when we got back cold and wet.'

Worcester Salvation Army volunteers helped to staff a refuge centre at Purdeswell leisure centre. They have also organised a supply of bottled water to Malvern fire station.

In Upton-on-Severn, a Salvation Army mobile unit and teams from Hereford corps (church) have provided assistance to locals stranded by flooding. In addition Worcestershire Emergency Planning have requested sleeping bags from The Salvation Army for use in rest centres throughout the county.

On Saturday, a request was made by Wychavon District Council for Salvation Army personnel to assist at a rest centre set up in Droitwich for those affected by the flooding of the A5.

Mayor Richard Morris, who was also helping at the rest centre, said: 'We've had some great support from the local community. We had sandwiches provided by Rossini's, breakfast provided by the Chateau Impney, bed linen from the Droitwich private hospital and The Salvation Army.'

The Salvation Army's 'SAFE' music and drama school which was due to take place in Cheltenham next week has fallen victim to the floods. The residential programme, for over 40 delegates from 18-65, has been cancelled due to ongoing problems with the public water supply.

Berkshire and Northamptonshire

Maidenhead was particularly badly hit on Friday 20 July, with The Salvation Army reporting that the high street and shopping centre were closed. Several streets in the town were impassable, with cars having to be towed out of the floods. Houses have been flooded to a depth of several inches. Salvation Army personnel in the town - led by Commissioners Alex & Ingeborg Hughes - have been visiting people affected by the floods, offering reassurance and practical help.

In Newbury, roads and the railway line were inundated. Salvation Army officers visited residents affected by the flooding to offer help and support. Churches in Newbury were also available to help if needed.

The villages of Helmdon, Syresham and Wappenham, in south Northamptonshire experienced widespread flooding on Friday. The Salvation Army is part of the official emergency response plan in the area and swiftly set up an emergency reception centre in nearby Brackley, at the request of Northamptonshire Country Council. The centre was initially manned by teams from Milton Keynes and Banbury - headed by Major Janey Thornton and Captain Pauline Milner.

A relief team of Salvation Army volunteers from Northampton took over during the early evening, serving tea, coffee and sandwiches to emergency services personnel and to local residents unable to return to their homes. A further team from Oxford was placed on standby to assist.

Territorial Emergency Services Officer Major Muriel McClenahan explained that The Salvation Army's response to the flooding disaster is not just short-term. 'The Salvation Army exists within communities and will continue to support those people within those local community whenever we're needed,' she said.

The Salvation Army, East Road, Maidenhead, SL6 1PJ. Tel: 01628 625914.

Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Maidenhead: 5 August - 11 August 2007
Altwood Road
Maidenhead
SL6 4PF
01628 788997

5th August at Maidenhead

* Performances
* 3:00 pm
Joe Strummer: The Future is Unwritten (15)
* 7:30 pm
Joe Strummer: The Future is Unwritten (15)
* Workshops and other events
* 10:00 am
Jo Hall: Watching the Landscape

6th August at Maidenhead

* Workshops and other events
* 10:00 am
Summer Dance Week

7th August at Maidenhead

* Performances
* 8:00 pm
Flyboys (12A)
* Workshops and other events
* 10:00 am
Summer Dance Week
* 10:00 am
Jo Hall: Watching the Landscape
* 10:30 am
The Patterns of Landscape: Its Structure and Rhythm
* 2:00 pm
The Patterns of Landscape: Its Structure and Rhythm

8th August at Maidenhead

* Performances
* 8:00 pm
Flyboys (12A)
* Workshops and other events
* 10:00 am
Summer Dance Week
* 10:00 am
Jo Hall: Watching the Landscape
* 10:30 am
The Clothes of Landscape
* 2:00 pm
The Clothes of Landscape

9th August at Maidenhead

* Performances
* 8:00 pm
The War on Demoncracy (15)
* Workshops and other events
* 10:00 am
Summer Dance Week
* 10:00 am
Jo Hall: Watching the Landscape
* 10:30 am
Wild Colours
* 2:00 pm
Wild Colours

10th August at Maidenhead

* Workshops and other events
* 10:00 am
Jo Hall: Watching the Landscape
* 10:00 am
Summer Dance Week

11th August at Maidenhead

* Performances
* 8:00 pm
La Vie En Rose (La Môme) (12A)
* Workshops and other events
* 10:00 am
Jo Hall: Watching the Landscape

The Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough has expressed deep regret and sadness at the death yesterday (Wednesday July 25) of Cllr Elizabeth Hawkes after a battle with cancer.

Cllr Hawkes, who was 61, served as a Windsor and Maidenhead borough councillor for 12 years. She was one of two councillors representing the Datchet ward, where she lived for 17 years from 1981 to 1998.

Born in India, where her father was serving in the army, she was first elected to the Royal Borough in 1995, and was the Royal Borough’s cabinet lead member for education from 2000 to 2003. Since May 2007 she chaired the Children’s Services and Leisure Scrutiny Panel as well as the Holyport Manor steering group.

She also served on a wide range of Royal Borough committees and panels including education, planning and highways, represented the borough on many outside committees and was a Datchet parish councillor.

A teacher since 1967, Cllr Hawkes was head of Science and Director of Studies at the Brigidine School in Windsor, with a passionate interest in education, reflected in her years as a governor of both St Mary’s C of E and Churchmead Schools in Datchet.

Cllr David Burbage, Windsor and Maidenhead council leader, said he was deeply saddened to hear of Cllr Hawkes’ death. He said: “Cllr Hawkes was a very popular councillor who was totally committed to the community of Datchet and to education, and she will be sadly missed both by the people of Datchet and by her fellow councillors.

“She braved her illness with great courage and continued to take an abiding interest in local issues right up until the end. Our thoughts are with her family at this sad time.”

David Lunn, Windsor and Maidenhead chief executive, said: “On behalf of all council staff I would like to express our sincere sympathy to Elizabeth’s husband and family. We have all admired her dignity and professionalism in the face of her ill-health, and will remember her as a dedicated and committed councillor.”

Cllr Hawkes is survived by her husband, Christopher, and daughter Samantha.

Details of her funeral will be released as soon as they are available.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Windsor and Maidenhead Royal Borough trading standards officers have issued a warning to local residents who could suffer property damage during this week’s floods - be wary of opportunist rogue traders offering to carry out quick clean up and repair jobs.

Steve Johnson, Windsor and Maidenhead trading standards manager, said: “Anyone who suffers flood damage to their house or garden should always contact their insurance company before organizing any repairs or clear-up work.

“It’s very tempting to accept the first offer that comes along, but this doesn’t always guarantee that you’ll be happy with the outcome. Our advice is to follow some simple steps to reduce the risk of being ripped off.”

Officers have put together the following tips:

· be wary of any trader who turns up unannounced and offers to do work. A short-cut may look quick and cheap but could be very costly in the long run and the trader may be untraceable

· before you organise any repairs contact your insurance company. Some insurance companies may arrange approved traders to repair damage on your behalf, but if you organise your own repairs, check what will be covered

· talk to family, friends and neighbours to get recommendations for reliable traders, or look for a trader who is a member of an approved code scheme

· think about getting written quotes (not estimates) from at least three traders

· consider making staged payments and keeping back a significant part of the cost until the repair job has been satisfactorily completed. If you do this, you can ask for defects to be put right without the need to make a claim or go to court for compensation

· if you are buying goods or services costing over £100, pay by credit card as you may be able to claim your money back from the card company if the trader fails to honour the contract.

Anyone who experiences problems with traders, or who needs further advice, should call Trading Standards on 01628 683802.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Forget the old adage “chips with everything” – in Windsor the speciality dish could soon be chips with free short-term parking!

As Windsor and Maidenhead Cabinet looks set to give the thumbs-up this week to free short-term parking for Royal Borough residents on more than two dozen Windsor roads, residents are being urged to make sure they get their chip cards to make the payment process easier.

Chip cards were introduced across the borough earlier this year to replace the magnetic stripe Advantage cards to make it easier for residents to get their residents discounts in local car parks – and the likely introduction of free short-term parking has prompted the Royal Borough to encourage more residents to swop their old stripe cards for new chip cards.

David Scott, head of Windsor and Maidenhead community services explained: “We introduced the new chip cards after taking on board the concerns of residents who have had difficulties using their Advantage cards in borough car parks.

“We are now taking this opportunity to reiterate the message that chip cards really are a far more reliable solution to the problems some of our residents were experiencing – and will make it easier for them to claim their discounts.”

Residents can swop their old magnetic Advantage cards for new chip cards at any local issuing centre – the Town Hall and the Magnet Leisure Centre in Maidenhead, Windsor Leisure Centre and York House customer service centre in Windsor and Charters Leisure Centre in Ascot.

If the free short-term parking proposal gets the go-ahead at Thursday’s cabinet meeting, it will mean that charges for the first period of parking – anything from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the street and the parking scheme in place – will be abolished.

To claim their first free time period, Windsor and Maidenhead residents will simply have to put their cards into the machines which will print off tickets for the appropriate length of time to be displayed in their car windscreen.

Town centre businesses could also be offered more and better parking opportunities with the creation of a new outer-zone all-day business permit for spaces in Alma Road, Clarence Road and Frances Road.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Sir Edward Elgar – one of England’s most acclaimed composers and the man behind the music of Land of Hope and Glory – will be commemorated at a special ceremony in the Windsor and Maidenhead Royal Borough next week.

The Windsor and Maidenhead Mayor, Cllr Leo Walters, will be at Monkey Island Lane in Bray on Wednesday August 1 to unveil a blue plaque at Long White Cloud where Elgar was a frequent visitor in the early years of the last century. At that time the property was known as The Hut, occupied by the composer’s friend and patron Leo Francis Schuster, and it is generally believed that it was there he composed amongst other works the slow movement to the Violin Concerto in B Minor, Op 61 (1910).

Windsor and Maidenhead Cllr Walters said he was delighted by the recognition of Elgar’s association with the Royal Borough, particularly during this official Year of Elgar which marks the 150th anniversary of his birth in June 1857.

He said: “While Elgar’s work is acclaimed across the world, he is best known to most of us for his stirring Land of Hope and Glory which is still played on many big occasions today, including the Last Night of the Proms. The blue plaque at Long White Cloud is a fitting local tribute to a man whose music has brought great pleasure to many people all over the world.”

After the unveiling the Mayor will introduce Dr Relf Clark, secretary of the London branch of the Elgar Society, who will speak on behalf of the society.

The suggestion for the plaque came from borough resident Dr David McBrien, who has been a member of the London branch of the society for over 40 years. He will be attending the unveiling ceremony along with other members of the society who will be hosting a reception afterwards in the Monkey Island Hotel.

This is the second Windsor and Maidenhead Royal Borough blue plaque with links to Land of Hope and Glory – in November 2006 Eton College was the venue for an unveiling ceremony to commemorate A C Benson, who wrote the lyrics.

Blue plaques are approved by the council only in very special circumstances to honour people who have carried out exceptional work or are remembered for particular achievements, or to mark famous events.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

With a series of flood warnings in place for the River Thames through the Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough, the council is ready for action to help ensure local residents are better equipped to deal with potential problems.

The Environment Agency is predicting that because of the recent heavy rain in the Cotswolds water levels in the River Thames will rise over the next couple of days, with potential for some flooding in the areas of

* Datchet, Horton and Wraysbury
* Cookham, Bisham and Hurley.

The anticipated peak will be on Wednesday but the Environment Agency says that levels are not expected to be as high as those experienced in 2003.

The Windsor and Maidenhead council wants to make sure that local residents are aware of the flood warnings and, if their homes are susceptible to flooding, that they take necessary precautions.

Actions underway include:

* Throughout today (Monday) Streetcare officers are visiting the potential flood areas, calling at homes to offer help and advice and leaving information sheets with helpful tips and contact numbers.
* Sandbags have been taken from the central depot at Tinkers Lane to strategic local sites, ready for quick distribution if needed to homes at risk of flooding and to vulnerable people unable to take precautions themselves.
* The emergency operations centre has been kept open following Friday’s flash floods in Windsor and Maidenhead and will remain in action throughout this week.
* There is close liaison with the Environment Agency to keep abreast of predicted water levels in the Thames.
* Comfortable accommodation has been reserved as a precaution in both Maidenhead and Windsor for families and older people should they have to move out of their homes.
* The Customer Service Centre has ready access to constantly-updated flood information and council services on 01628 683804

Cllr Colin Rayner, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead highways transport and the environment, said: “While the Environment Agency has assured us that Thames water levels will not be as high as in 2003, we are taking no chances. We are keeping the council’s emergency responses in full readiness and in the event of flooding will work tirelessly to help residents affected.”

In the meantime the council is advising householders to get information from the Environment Agency’s Floodline on 0845 988 1188 or its website www.environment-agency.gov.uk

There are a number of precautions that householders in flood risk areas can take themselves to help minimise damage:

* move as much furniture, electrical goods and valuables as possible upstairs
* move cars to higher ground
* block outside ground level air bricks
* use plastic sheeting held down by bin bags filled with soil to block ground floor doorways, garages and sheds.

Appeal to drivers
The Windsor and Maidenhead Royal Borough has also issued an appeal for drivers to act responsibly and not drive through flooded areas.

Eric Livingstone, streetcare manager, explained: “Last Friday’s flooding in Maidenhead demonstrated very clearly the damage that can be caused to people’s home by thoughtless drivers who ignore advice and drive through flooded roads. They may get to their own homes safe and dry but they create waves of water that pours into nearby houses.

“Much of the damage at Wootton Way and Clare Road in Maidenhead could have been avoided or minimised if drivers, particularly of 4 x 4s, vans and lorries, had turned away instead of ploughing through the water.”

The council’s advice to drivers is: Obey road closed signs, take alternative routes wherever possible – and think about the problems they are creating for other home owners. The council also advises people not to paddle or cycle through flood water.

Clear-up after Friday’s flooding
Throughout the weekend council staff have been working with residents in Wootton Way and Clare Road, Maidenhead, and Pierson Road and Burnetts Road, Windsor, to help with the aftermath of Friday’s flooding.

* Streetcare workers have cleaned the streets of debris and teams are also making sure that gullies and drains are clear, free-flowing and capable of coping with normal levels of rainfall.
* The customer service centre opened early today (Monday) to deal with telephone calls from residents, with staff on duty from 7am.
* This afternoon teams from the social care services are visiting residents in the worst affected areas to make sure they have all the help they need and to give out information sheets.
* The council will remove flood-damaged furniture and equipment free of charge – residents just need to put it at the front of their property and call the customer service centre to arrange for its collection.

Cllr David Burbage, council leader and lead member for Maidenhead, said he welcomed the additional council support being offered to flood-hit families. He added: “Friday’s freak weather caused damage to a number of local homes and I would like to pay tribute to the residents affected for the way they coped with the situation and their determination to get back to normal. I know that for some it will be a long process and the council is offering a great deal of support to help them at this very difficult time.”

Residents who need further information should not hesitate to contact the customer service centre on 01628 683804. If they need to contact the council outside normal office hours the number to call is 01753 853517, which operates a 24 hour service.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

The Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough has been working throughout the day to support local residents battling against today’s severe weather conditions.

The Emergency Operations Centre was opened early this morning to co-ordinate the council’s response and there have been well over 300 calls from members of the public asking for help or information.

The roads most affected in the Maidenhead area were those dipping under railway or road bridges where water collected, resulting in traffic delays. The problem was exacerbated by flooding on the M4, with displaced traffic adding to the volume of vehicles making their way through the town.

Council staff have been out on Windsor and Maidenhead borough roads to inspect existing or potential flooding and temporary road closures were put in place on a number of roads.

Thousands of sandbags have been distributed, with priority given to those properties most at risk of flooding or where there is a need to prevent further flood damage.

The council has also worked with Maidenhead and District Housing Association to offer comfortable and welcoming accommodation to people who wished to be moved from their flooded homes in Wootton Way and Clare Road. At this stage, however, no-one has expressed a wish to move.

By lunchtime six borough schools had closed as a result of, or threat of, flooding:

* Furze Platt Infant School, Maidenhead
* Boyne Hill Infant and Nursery School, Maidenhead
* Windsor Boys’ School
* Trinity St Stephen First School, Windsor
* Holyport Primary School
* Maidenhead Nursery.

Cllr David Burbage, council leader and lead member for Maidenhead, said: “With yesterday’s adverse forecast the council ensured its operations team was ready to respond to localised flooding – though the sheer scale of the downpour and the resulting extent of the flooding has meant we are sometimes unable to get help to people as fast as we would have wished.

“Council staff continue to work flat out to help as many people as we can in our community and have responded as quickly as possible to requests for assistance. We have worked closely with the police and other organisations to ensure that vulnerable members of the community and those most in need were given our most urgent attention.

“Calls continue to come into the council and our lines will be open through the day and evening to ensure residents have access to services after normal office hours.”

The numbers to call are 01628 683804 until 6pm or afterwards the council’s out of hours emergency number 01753 853517.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Maidenhead: 29 July - 4 August 2007
Altwood Road
Maidenhead
SL6 4PF
01628 788997

29th July at Maidenhead

* Workshops and other events
* 5:30 pm
Summer Ceramics: The work of local potters

30th July at Maidenhead

No events planned

31st July at Maidenhead

* Performances
* 8:00 pm
Jindabyne (15)
* Workshops and other events
* 10:00 am
Introduction to DJ-ing workshops

1st August at Maidenhead

* Performances
* 8:00 pm
Jindabyne (15)
* Workshops and other events
* 10:00 am
Jo Hall: Watching the Landscape
* 10:00 am
Introduction to DJ-ing workshops

2nd August at Maidenhead

* Performances
* 7:30 pm
Summer Concert Series 3: Viv McLean (piano)
* Workshops and other events
* 10:00 am
Jo Hall: Watching the Landscape

3rd August at Maidenhead

* Performances
* 8:00 pm
Water (12A)
* Workshops and other events
* 10:00 am
Jo Hall: Watching the Landscape

4th August at Maidenhead

* Performances
* 3:00 pm
Water (12A)
* 8:00 pm
Water (12A)
* Workshops and other events
* 10:00 am
Jo Hall: Watching the Landscape

For the first time, Maidenhead police and their partners have closed a “crack house” using the Anti-Social Behaviour Act of 2003.

The closure of the property in Abingdon Walk, Furze Platt, today (19/7) was the result of close co-operation between Maidenhead police officers and the Royal Borough Community Safety Team, along with Toynbee, the housing association which owns the property, and local residents.

An order to close down the property was granted at Maidenhead Magistrates’ Court today, where PC Dave Higgs and PC Stuart Holt, neighbourhood officers for Furze Platt, gave evidence.

The closure order follows a search warrant carried out by officers at the property on 21 May, during which evidence of Class A drug use was found, and evidence of anti-social behaviour reported to police by the community.

Supt Mike Ismay, commander of Windsor and Maidenhead local police area, authorised the issuing of a closure notice on 10 July, which led to today’s court hearing.

The property will now remain boarded up for up to three months and anyone caught inside, or attempting to get in, will be arrested. Police can return to court and get an extension of the closure order for a further three months if necessary.

Supt Mike Ismay, who has worked closely with PC Higgs and the Maidenhead neighbourhood team to bring about the closure, said: “This is a good example of neighbourhood policing responding to concerns raised by residents. Drug crime and anti-social behaviour are significant priorities for police in Windsor and Maidenhead. I plan to use this legislation as often is needed. Anyone using or dealing Class A drugs from their home can expect a visit from the police.

“The public can help us by providing information about people and premises involved in crime. Call us on 0845 8 505 505, or if you would prefer to remain anonymous, call the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111. Pinkneys Green residents can also contact their neighbourhood team via neighbourhoodpinkneys@thamesvalley.pnn.police.uk.”

Maidenhead PC Higgs said: “There had been an on-going problem with this property. Residents reported undesirable people coming and going and hanging around, which made them fear for their safety. It is thanks to the community providing us with information, and partnership working between the police, the Royal Borough and Toynbee housing association, that this closure was achieved.”

A representative from Toynbee said the housing association fully supports the closure and wishes to emphasise that it will not tolerate any illegal or anti-social behaviour in its properties.

A representative of the Royal Borough's Drug and Alcohol Action Team said this closure sent out exactly the right message to those who seek to damage our communities by using premises in this way. This closure is a good example of how our residents can benefit from coordinated work by partners.

Operation Falcon is a campaign to stamp out Class A drug dealers, reduce drug-driven crime and disorder, and to enhance treatment opportunities for addicts in Berkshire East.

The triple-edged campaign was launched by Maidenhead police and their partners in March 2006.

Falcon is the BCU’s long-term initiative aimed at improving the quality of life for residents across the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead, Slough, and Bracknell Forest.

Thames Valley Police ~ Maidenhead

Reading for (p)leisure takes on a whole new meaning at Windsor and Maidenhead Royal Borough libraries from this week as book lovers enjoy the benefits of browsing the library shelves – from the comfort of their armchairs!!

The new perspective on borrowing is just one of the innovative features of the library service new state-of-the-art computer system which goes live in all borough libraries this week.

Among the main benefits for readers is a new simple-to-use web catalogue for accessing the Windsor and Maidenhead library’s stock catalogue from readers’ own home computers – with images showing what their chosen books look like.

Customers can also set up personalised profiles and receive automatic alerts about new stock that matches their reading interests – as well as receiving notices by email.

The new SPYDUS management system also updates the operation of membership records, loans, renewals and returns, and further improves home-access library services which also include the ability to search for articles from the major daily newspapers and access encyclopaedias and dictionaries.

Cllr Jesse Grey, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead leisure and cultural services, said: “This is very exciting news for all users of our borough libraries. Being able to look at the library’s book stock from the comfort of one’s own home is a huge advantage – especially for people whose working hours mean it is not easy to get to a library during regular opening hours.

“Any system we can set in place which encourages more people to use our excellent library services has got to be good, and I’m sure this really user-friendly system will help. Also it will improve many of the libraries’ essential operations, meaning that staff can provide an even better, more efficient service to library customers. A real winner all round!”

Readers can access the new web catalogue by visiting www.rbwm.gov.uk/web/library_catalogue.htm. Existing library users can use their old logon details from the previous system – and new users can join online directly from home using the new system. Borough residents can even have their new logon card posted to them.

In implementing the new SPYDUS system, the Royal Borough – in partnership with five other local authorities (Wokingham borough council, Buckinghamshire county council, West Berkshire Council, Brighton and Hove City Council and Milton Keynes Council) - is leading the way in the provision of electronically-delivered library services.

The six-member consortium – known as SELMS (South East Library Management System) – is introducing services based on the SPYDUS system over the next six months. Later in the year Windsor and Maidenhead Royal Borough library customers will be able to access library stock at all six authorities using their one library card.

For further information about the new web catalogue, contact Andrew Lewis, enquiries and e-delivery team leader, on 01628 796592, or visit the online library page at www.rbwm.gov.uk/web/onlinelibrary.htm

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

The Windsor and Maidenhead countryside rangers at Braywick Park are on the lookout for tomorrow’s intrepid explorers and wildlife conservationists, ready to discover amazing new wildlife.

Nature lovers aged 10 – 14 years are invited to make the trek to the Hibbert Road, Maidenhead site on Wednesday August 1 or Tuesday August 21 from 2 to 4pm to join them on an eco-challenge adventure.

Once there they will need a keen eye and sharp instincts to observe all kinds of wildlife in their various habitats, including the underwater world of ponds and the secret life of insects.

Places must be booked in advance on 01628 796227. Participants should wear sturdy shoes and sensible clothing and come prepared for all weather conditions.

The cost is £4.10 per child with an Advantage Card; there is an additional daily charge of 60p for non-card holders.

For further information call 01628 777440.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

There will be clues, pictures and puzzles to figure out – and a chance to get close to nature – when the Windsor and Maidenhead Ray Mill Island Ranger Roadshow and Trail Challenge takes place on Sunday July 29 from 1 to 5pm.

The event will take place on the island which is reached by crossing the bridge at Boulters Lock, Lower Cookham Road, Maidenhead.

In the roadshow youngsters and families will be able to discover nature close up, touching a nest, holding a skull and seeing what’s lurking in a pond. Visitors can also ask the rangers wildlife questions and learn more about their work around the borough.

The Windsor and Maidenhead summer wildlife trail challenge, organised by the Royal Borough’s countryside rangers for all the family, requires participants to follow a map, looking for clues and figuring out the answers, with a prize at the end for those who complete the challenge.

There is no need to book, simply turn up on the day. All children must be accompanied by an adult.

Entrance to Ray Mill Island and the ranger roadshow is free. The cost for the trail challenge is £2.60 per child with an Advantage Card; junior non-Advantage Card holders will be charged an additional daily entry fee of 60p and adults go free.

For more information call 01628 777440.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

The Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough’s sports development team and the School Sports Partnerships are hosting a 3km family fun run this Sunday (July 15) in a bid to promote family fitness.

The annual Run for the Children run takes place at Thames Valley Athletics Centre, Pococks Lane, Eton, starting 11am, and follows an easy course from the centre into Eton fields and back. It is open to children, parents, families and friends of all ages and abilities who can choose to run, jog or walk.

The Run for the Children family fitness initiative encourages families to get fit together and, as well as the fun runs, provides a healthy eating and fitness programme full of tips on healthy living.

In addition to sharing time and exercising with the family, Windsor and Maidenhead participants can raise money for Run for the Children’s chosen charity, Children with Leukaemia, or a charity of their choice.

Jo Pappenheim, partnership development manager at Windsor School Sports Partnership, said: “Run for the Children is a fantastic and fun event aimed at getting the whole family active and promoting a healthy lifestyle. It’s great to see kids running alongside their parents, family or friends and I encourage everyone to enter and make the commitment.”

Entry is £2 for children (four to 15 years old), £10 for adults or £20 for a family ‘saver’ comprising two adults and up to three children. Entry forms are available at leisure centres, doctors’ surgeries and libraries, or online at www.runforthechildren.co.uk. Alternatively participants can enter on the day by registering 30 to 45 minutes prior to the start. Sponsorship forms are available on entry.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

It’s “last orders” in the challenge to local artists and galleries to “fly the Royal borough flag” at one of the Windsor and Maidenhead area’s most prestigious arts events.

With exhibitors for this year’s bigger-and-better three-day Windsor Contemporary Art Fair – sponsored by Windsor and Eton Town Partnership - already coming in from places as far afield as Sussex, Cornwall and West Yorkshire, the message to artists and galleries closer to home is - “There are only a small number of stands still available, so make your application soon!”

Now in its third year and with an extra day and new, bigger venue reflecting its growing popularity, the fair is moving from its original “home” at Windsor’s Christopher Wren hotel to Windsor Racecourse from Friday November 9 to Sunday November 11 – where it will almost double in size and boast nearly 50 stands with more than 50 exhibitors.

Cllr Colin Rayner, chairman of the Windsor and Eton Town Partnership said: “We are very proud to be able to host such a prestigious arts event here in the Royal Borough – and it would be fitting to be able to see some of the wealth of local Windsor and Maidenhead artistic talent alongside entries from further afield. I will be looking forward to attending the event with my family and fellow councillors.”

For further information about the art fair, contact Deborah James or Sarah McAllister on 01753 542869 or email info@windsorcontemporaryartfair.co.uk

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Maidenhead: 22 July - 28 July 2007
Altwood Road
Maidenhead
SL6 4PF
01628 788997

22nd July at Maidenhead

* Performances
* 7:00 pm
Piece 24 – Public Experiment # 1
* 7:30 pm
Feast of Folk
* Workshops and other events
* 5:30 pm
Summer Ceramics: The work of local potters

23rd July at Maidenhead

* Performances
* 10:00 am
Summer Circus Week

24th July at Maidenhead

* Performances
* 8:00 pm
My Best Friend (Mon Meilleur Ami) (12A)
* Workshops and other events
* 10:00 am
Summer Circus Week
* 5:30 pm
Summer Ceramics: The work of local potters

25th July at Maidenhead

* Performances
* 8:00 pm
Goya’s Ghosts (15)
* Workshops and other events
* 10:00 am
Summer Circus Week
* 5:30 pm
Summer Ceramics: The work of local potters

26th July at Maidenhead

* Performances
* 8:00 pm
Goya’s Ghosts (15)
* Workshops and other events
* 10:00 am
Summer Circus Week
* 5:30 pm
Summer Ceramics: The work of local potters

27th July at Maidenhead

* Performances
* 8:00 pm
1947: Earth (15)
* Workshops and other events
* 10:00 am
Summer Circus Week
* 5:30 pm
Summer Ceramics: The work of local potters

28th July at Maidenhead

* Performances
* 7:30 pm
The Laurie Holloway Trio
* Workshops and other events
* 5:30 pm
Summer Ceramics: The work of local potters

Commencing on 3 October, we shall be running a free course in Maidenhead for anyone interested in attending and learning more about the Christian Faith. You don’t need to already be already attending any church. Just come if you are interested in attending the Alpha Course, a series of talks addressing key issues relating to the Christian faith under the headings:

Who Is Jesus?; Why Did Jesus Die?; How Can I Be Sure of My Faith?; Why and How Should I Read the Bible?; Why and How Do I Pray?; How Does God Guide Us?; Who Is the Holy Spirit?; What Does the Holy Spirit Do?; How Can I Be Filled With the Spirit?; How Can I Resist Evil?; Why and How Should We Tell Others?; Does God Heal Today?; What About the Church?; How Can I Make the Most of the Rest of My Life?

This course is open to anyone wanting to know more about the Christian faith. For further details please telephone (01628 625914) or email (maidenheadsa@tiscali.co.uk) us and leave a message for John Davie or Kate Sheehan.

The Salvation Army, East Road, Maidenhead, SL6 1PJ

It will be a very special “right Royal occasion” for three young Maidenhead students – and a “first” for the popular Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme.

The trio will be “flying the Royal Borough flag” on home territory when they join a bumper crop of nearly 1,000 young people stepping up to receive their gold awards at a special presentation ceremony to be held for the first time at Windsor Castle later this week.

University students Hannah Nicole Dutfield, Hannah Sharp and Laura Vaughan, all from Maidenhead, completed their Gold expedition through the borough’s Outdoor Education Project based at Castle Hill centre in Maidenhead.

To qualify for their gold award, all the young people aged between 17 and 25 have to spend at least 18 months volunteering in their local communities, learning a new skill, achieving at a physical activity, planning and undertaking an expedition and spending five days working away from home working on a special and constructive project.

The latest batch of young Windsor and Maidenhead recipients will receive their awards at the ceremony at the castle on Thursday July 12, hosted by the Earl and Countess of Wessex.

Presenting the awards will be a star-studded “cast” of invited celebrities from the worlds of politics and entertainment, including GMTV’s Ben Shepherd, Dead Ringers star Jon Culshaw, swimmer Duncan Goodhew, comedian Harry Hill, TV presenters Alice Beer and Bill Turnbull and Tim Campbell, winner of the recent TV programme The Apprentice.

Catherine Hurst, Windsor and Maidenhead Royal Borough Award Co-ordinator, said: “All the young people involved in this very special occasion should be very, very proud of their achievements.

“They have all demonstrated terrific commitment and enthusiasm – as indeed have the people who give up their time to help them reach their goals.

“The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme celebrated its 50th anniversary last year, but it is still as popular as ever and continues to attract large numbers of young people to take part in its range of challenging activities.

“It also provides a unique opportunity for young people to develop and grow in confidence as they learn new skills and make new friends at the same time. Well done everyone!”

For further information about the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award contact the Royal Borough’s Award Co-ordinator Catherine Hurst on 01628 796478. For further details about the Awards ceremony contact the Award Scheme head office on 01753 727423.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Police are appealing for witnesses after two robberies in Maidenhead.

At about 11.30pm on Friday 6 July, a man in his thirties was walking through Kidwells Park, Maidenhead when he was approached by a group of eight or nine teenage boys. The man was assaulted by the youths and fell to the ground. The youths stole his wallet and walked off towards the Castle Hill end of the High Street.

The main offender is white, aged 16 to 17, slim, and was wearing a light-coloured coat.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Det Con Kellie Auld on 0845 8 505 505.

At around 4am on Sunday 8 July, a 19-year-old man was walking along the A4 Bath Road, opposite the Maidenhead Alfa Romeo garage, when he was hit from behind and his silver Nokia N73 mobile phone and a gold chain were stolen.

If you witnessed the incident or saw anyone acting suspiciously in the area at the time, please contact PC Justin Lelliott on 0845 8 505 505.

If you don’t want to speak to police or give your name, please call the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111.

Thames Valley Police ~ Maidenhead

Maidenhead Police are appealing for witnesses and information after a robbery at Coral bookmakers in St Marks Crescent, Maidenhead last Monday (02/07).

At about 9.30pm a man used a knife to force a member of staff and a customer to go into the back of the shop.

The offender stole cash from the staff member’s purse and also stole cash from the safe. He left through the back entrance.

The offender is 18, 5ft 4ins to 5ft 8ins, slim, and was wearing a balaclava, dark coloured gloves, a grey hooded top and dark tracksuit bottoms.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact DC Kellie Auld, of Maidenhead CID, on 0845 8 505 505. If you do not wish to speak to police or give your name, contact the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111.

Thames Valley Police ~ Maidenhead

Maidenhead Police are appealing for witnesses and information after thieves tried to remove an ATM from the wall of Martins newsagents in Wessex Way.

The incident happened at about 4am on Saturday (7/7).

It has not yet been confirmed whether anything was stolen. No one was injured.

A K reg Mitsubishi stolen from Waltham Road, Maidenhead, and a J reg Subaru Legacy stolen from Northumbria Road, Maidenhead were used to try and move the ATM. It is possible a third car was involved. The Mitsubishi was left at the scene. The Subaru was later recovered from Chapel Court off Fane Way in Maidenhead.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact DC Sarah Houghton, of Maidenhead CID, on 0845 8 505 505. If you do not wish to speak to police or give your name, contact the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111.

Thames Valley Police ~ Maidenhead

There’s a new twist on partying in the park at Braywick this summer – a tree-mendous opportunity for families and nature lovers to bring along their sandwiches and sausage rolls and picnic in the park.

As well as relaxing and enjoying the green and pleasant surroundings while they eat, visitors can join in various free, tree-related activities on Sunday July 22 from 12 to 4pm – and some may even be inspired to join the Windsor and Maidenhead Royal Borough’s volunteer tree warden scheme.

Countryside rangers and tree wardens will challenge picnickers to measure the height of a monkey puzzle, calculate the age of a giant redwood or oriental plane and take part in a quiz trail around Braywick Park where they can try to identify species using clues such as twigs and branches.

The wardens and rangers will talk about their work with the massive plants, including the annual Oaks for Folks project in which residents are encouraged to grow oaks from acorns for future planting in the local area.

Cllr Jesse Grey, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead leisure and culture, said: “We live in a beautiful part of the country and this event is a great opportunity to reconnect with nature and enjoy one of our loveliest open spaces.

“Trees form such an important and integral part of our environment and we need to continue planting for the future. We also need to care for and protect our existing trees and our tree wardens do a wonderful job in this respect.

“Hopefully some of the visitors, having seen the warden’s successes and the fulfilment they get from this role, will decide to volunteer themselves.”

Trevor Smith, senior Windsor and Maidenhead countryside ranger said: “Tree wardens can volunteer as much or as little time as they feel they can manage. Some help by alerting tree officers to potential threats or problems they may notice around their parish while others help more practically with tree planting projects. There are opportunities to help keep the public aware of trees and their value by helping with exhibitions or assisting on guided walks around our woodlands.”

For further information on the picnic or how to volunteer as a tree warden, call Trevor on 01628 777440.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Maidenhead: 15 July - 21 July 2007
Altwood Road
Maidenhead
SL6 4PF
01628 788997

15th July at Maidenhead

* Performances
* 2:30 pm
Hillingdon Schools Concert
* 7:30 pm
Night of the Sunflowers (Angosto / La Noche de los Girasols) (15)
* Workshops and other events
* 5:30 pm
Summer Ceramics: The work of local potters

16th July at Maidenhead

No events planned

17th July at Maidenhead

* Workshops and other events
* 5:30 pm
Summer Ceramics: The work of local potters

18th July at Maidenhead

* Workshops and other events
* 5:30 pm
Summer Ceramics: The work of local potters

19th July at Maidenhead

* Performances
* 7:30 pm
Summer Concert Series 2: Gretel Dowdeswell and Alexander Taylor (pianos)
* Workshops and other events
* 5:30 pm
Summer Ceramics: The work of local potters

20th July at Maidenhead

* Performances
* 8:00 pm
Goodbye Bafana (15)
* 8:00 pm
Around the Fringes: Edinburgh Festival Previews
* Workshops and other events
* 5:30 pm
Summer Ceramics: The work of local potters

21st July at Maidenhead

* Performances
* 8:00 pm
Goodbye Bafana (15)
* 8:00 pm
Around the Fringes: Edinburgh Festival Previews
* Workshops and other events
* 5:30 pm
Summer Ceramics: The work of local potters

The Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough has made it clear to BT that it must take action to alleviate the traffic congestion its roadworks are causing in Maidenhead town centre – and the result is that BT has agreed to:

* commit extra resources to the scheme and extend working hours
* open two lanes of traffic on the A308 to alleviate traffic problems at the pinch point at The Bell pub – this will be in place in time for the rush hour on Friday evening.

The moves follow further council intervention with the company to reflect its major concerns and those of residents and businesses about the traffic problems caused by BT between Queen Street and Stafferton Way.

The plan is to put in temporary repairs to the road over the large communications chamber outside The Bell pub, allowing vehicles to use two lanes at this pinch point. The permanent work will be done during the school summer holidays when traffic is lighter.

The Windsor and Maidenhead council said it was very concerned about the current town centre disruption caused by the works and Cllr Colin Rayner, lead member for highways, transport and environment, said: “The council had asked BT to commit more resources to the repairs and had given permission for 24-hour-a-day working to get the problem fixed. We have asked the local BT director to come to the council and explain the company’s lack of action as soon as possible. BT has let down the residents and business of Maidenhead.”

David Perkins, head of streetcare and operations, said “Public utilities have the legal right to carry out necessary roadworks and repairs on the highway – in this case BT and Southern Electric’s requirement to upgrade their infrastructure for both residents and businesses in a large area of the town.

“While this is clearly very essential work, there is a balance to be struck between the need for electricity and telephone services and the inevitable effect on the highways.

“Under the New Roads and Streetworks Act the council is actively involved with utility companies, with a dedicated team of officers co-ordinating their work and making sure they cause the least possible disruption. However, even with this co-ordination and attention to detail, it would be impossible to completely plan out disruption when it is necessary to close a lane on a road that carries around 40,000 vehicles a day.

“In order to ensure that the works are completed as soon as possible, we gave BT and Southern Electric’s contractors authority to work outside normal working hours if necessary. The current combined works are now expected to be completed in three weeks.

“Despite the fact that the disruption was caused by BT, it was the council that proactively issued a series of press releases, provided information for travel reports on local radio stations and did a number of live interviews on BBC Radio Berkshire to try and get as much information to the public as possible.

“I would like to reassure residents and businesses that everything possible is being done under the council’s powers to bring this situation to a satisfactory close and council staff will continue to monitor the situation.”

To ensure that further disruption is avoided in the town centre the council has postponed its planned resurfacing of the southbound carriageway of Braywick Road which was scheduled for next week. The work will now be done during the school holidays.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Members of the armed forces based in the Windsor and Maidenhead Royal Borough could soon have the same right of access to social housing as other residents.

If a new proposal is accepted, discharged Windsor and Maidenhead servicemen and women will receive ‘local connection’ points towards the housing allocation list if they have been living in the borough for six months prior to discharge or six months immediately before enlistment. Previously they had to have lived in the borough for 12 months before they joined the forces to qualify for these points.

This proposal brings former military personnel in line with other residents who have to live in the borough for six months to qualify for local connection points.

The proposal moved a step forward last night (Tuesday) when it was discussed at a planning and environment overview and scrutiny panel meeting in the Town Hall. It will now go to cabinet for approval on Thursday July 26.

Cllr Derek Wilson, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead housing, said: “It seems only fair that these men and women who are serving our country, possibly in difficult or even dangerous situations, are placed on an equal footing with other residents. This move will help ensure that when they leave the armed forces they have the same opportunities as other local people to find suitable accommodation in the area where they have already put down roots and their children attend school.”

The Windsor and Maidenhead borough does not own or manage any social housing but has arrangements with housing associations to ensure any accommodation that becomes available is offered to those with the greatest need. This is decided on a points-based system with points being allocated for such criteria as local connection, the quality of the resident’s existing accommodation and medical needs.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

The strategy that will guide all future development in the Windsor and Maidenhead Royal Borough has been subjected to intense public scrutiny to ensure it measures up to the needs and challenges of the next 20 years.

Residents, employers, developers and amenity groups attended the three-week Examination in Public of the council’s new Local Development Framework (LDF) Core Strategy, held from June 12 to 27 in the Town Hall and in St. Mary’s Church Hall, Maidenhead.

The examination was the climax of three years’ work, started in March 2004, to capture the views of residents and employers in the strategy which will be the cornerstone of the new LDF (replacing current Local Plan).

Presided over by Robert Neil Parry, from the Planning Inspectorate, the examination featured lively discussions on subjects such as the growth strategy for the borough; housing affordability, numbers and distribution; protecting the historic and natural environment; flooding; the River Thames and the Green Belt.

Cllr Derek Wilson, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead planning, attended the examination and has thanked everyone involved in the preparation of the core strategy for their constructive input throughout the lengthy process.

He said: “The core strategy is the basis for all future development in the borough and is the key to ensuring that residents and businesses, both now and in the future, can continue to enjoy a high quality environment.

“The demands for further building in our borough will be a constant challenge over the next 20 years and beyond and it is imperative that we have a robust LDF to help guide development in the most sustainable way for the benefit of everyone.”

Following examination in public, the inspector will consider all views and produce his report, expected around the end of August this year. This will set out the inspector’s findings and will recommend whether the council can forge ahead with the next steps to adopt the core strategy as a basis for planning decisions and other more detailed work. The inspector’s report will be available from the council’s web site at www.rbwm.gov.uk

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Developers could face tough Windsor and Maidenhead council enforcement action if they fail to comply with the terms of their planning permissions.

That’s the message spelled out in a new Windsor and Maidenhead Royal Borough report that says if developers and applicants don’t stick to the pre-conditions imposed by the borough’s development control process they could find themselves facing delays while they submit a further planning application.

The proposal for what is described as ‘high profile enforcement’ will be discussed at a meeting of the council’s planning and environment overview and scrutiny panel tonight (Tuesday).

Cllr Derek Wilson, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead planning, said that while many developers and applicants here to their pre-conditions others do not, leading to a huge demand on planning enforcement officers’ time as they chase up complaints.

He explained: “We need to introduce a tougher approach, refocusing our efforts on working with developers and applicants before they start work to make sure they do everything their planning permission requires.

“Part of this is to remind them that if they don’t fulfil their pre-conditions, their planning permission could be undermined. This could result in them having to put in a new application for the work without the pre-conditions – causing them a great deal of inconvenience, cost and delays in valuable construction time.”

And if the application is not submitted, Windsor and Maidenhead council has a further weapon in its armoury – making a note of the breach of planning conditions in the local land charges register. This would show potential home buyers that the development did not have proper planning permission.

Cllr Wilson added: “We believe this approach will give developers and applicants a strong message that the council is determined to take action – and they can’t just do as they please.”

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Work on the second of the Windsor and Maidenhead Royal Borough’s six new children’s centres will get under way in a matter of weeks, with the opening scheduled for early 2008.

The Windsor and Maidenhead centre will be at Imperial Road, Windsor – in part of the building shared by Oakfield First School, The Lawns Nursery and East Berkshire Music Maestros – and will provide high quality early years and social care services for families with children from birth to five years old.

Contractors are due to start the renovations on Monday July 23, allowing the major part of the scheme to be done over the school summer holidays when there are no children on site.

To enable the work to go ahead, the Music Maestros have kindly agreed to use temporary premises in Dedworth and will be returning when the contract is complete.

Cllr Eileen Quick, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead children’s services, said she was delighted by this significant step forward in provision for families in the Windsor area and thanked the Music Maestros for their co-operation to allow the renovations to go ahead.

She added: “The children’s centre programme aims to set up a network of help and support for families with young children under five It will provide easy access to local services that will not only make life better for the youngsters themselves but also improve opportunities for their parents and strengthen family units.”

With the South Ascot children’s centre already open and this one on the way, the council is on course to have all six in the £1.9 million programme in operation by spring 2008. The other four will be at Ellington Primary School, Maidenhead; St Mark’s Hospital site, Maidenhead, Woodlands Park Centre and Dedworth First School.

Part of the national children’s centre project, each one will provide early years education along with family support such as classes on parenting, healthy eating and giving up smoking along with advice and support on getting back into employment.

Windsor and Maidenhead Cllr Quick added: “Families themselves will play an active part in the range of services and activities on offer to support their needs and, of course, as their needs change so too will the programmes at each site. There will also be openings for partner organisations, such as health, to set up their own complementary family services.”

Sian Thomas, headteacher at The Lawns, said she was delighted by the progress: “This is something we've been working towards for three years. It will be an excellent opportunity for children and families in the area, offering services for children from birth to five years. Each centre will be different because it will cater for its own individual community. It is a very new and exciting time for the borough.”

Oakfield First headteacher Roz Sendorek, said: “We are very much looking forward to the opening of the children’s centre. It will add an extra dimension to our extended school partnership with The Lawns and other neighbouring schools, which is already working very successfully. Parents and carers will certainly benefit from the additional services which, our research shows, are very much what the community wants and needs. ”

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Yellow Advantage cards could soon open the door to free short-term parking for Windsor and Maidenhead Royal Borough residents on more than two dozen Windsor roads.

If the proposal gets the go ahead it will mean that charges for the first period of parking – anything from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the street and the parking scheme in place – will be abolished, giving local people enough time to nip to the shops or visit friends living in streets close to Windsor town centre.

At the same time, town centre businesses could be offered more and better parking opportunities with the creation of a new outer zone all-day business permit for spaces in Alma Road, Clarence Road and Frances Road.

The Windsor and Maidenhead council’s planning and environment overview and scrutiny panel will discuss the merits of these proposals when it meets on Tuesday evening (July 3) before cabinet takes the final decision on Thursday July 26.

Cllr Colin Rayner, lead member for highways, transport and the environment, said both new initiatives were positive examples of the council listening to the views of residents and businesses.

He explained: “We all know that the high demand for parking in Windsor can be a problem for residents and businesses. Feedback from the people who use the council’s on-street parking spaces regularly and from Windsor and District Chamber of Commerce is key to introducing successful changes that meet local needs.

“We have looked very carefully at how we can make the yellow Advantage Card work better for residents and by offering the first parking period free on a number of streets we can help bring about very real ‘advantages’ for our community.”

If given the go-ahead by cabinet, the new Windsor and Maidenhead schemes will feature:
Yellow Advantage Card holder parking
First tariff period free at:

* Barry Avenue – currently 50p for first hour
* St Leonards Road – currently 10p for first 30 minutes
* Central area (Park Street, Victoria Street, Datchet Road, Farm Yard, Sheet Street and Thames Side) – currently 30p for first hour
* Residential Roads 1 (Alexandra Road, Claremont Road, Devereux Road, Dorset Road, Grove Road, Helena Road, St Leonards Avenue and St Mark’s Road – currently 10p for first hour
* Residential Roads 2 (Albert Street, Alma Road, Beaumont Road, Bexley Street, Clarence Street, Duke Street, Fawcett Road, Oxford Road, Queens Road, St Leonards Road, Vansittart Road – currently 10p for first hour.

Outer zone business parking
A six-month pilot scheme from August 1 to make available a total of 65 spaces at:

* Alma Road
* Clarence Road
* Frances Road.

Outer zone business permits would be valid from 8am to 6pm (maximum of three per business) with incremental charges - £450 per year for the first permit, £500 for the second and £550 for the third). Six-month permits would be issued to cover the pilot period and then extended if the permits were to be introduced on a longer-term basis.

The outer zone pilot proposal is a direct result of consultation with Windsor and District Chamber of Commerce. It would supplement the existing four-hour business permit parking scheme, which allows one permit per business for four hours of parking at Datchet Road, Farm Yard, Park Street, Sheet Street, Thames Side, Victoria Street, St Leonard’s Road and Alexandra Road.

Cllr Rayner thanked the Windsor and Maidenhead chamber members for their input and explained that the effectiveness of the pilot scheme would be monitored over the six months with a view to making it permanent if it proved successful. He looked forward to getting the views of his fellow councillors at the overview and scrutiny and cabinet meetings.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Increasing an understanding of Alzheimer’s disease is top of the agenda for the Windsor and Maidenhead Royal Borough during Alzheimer’s Awareness Week (Sunday July 1 – Saturday July 7).

Partnership working by Windsor and Maidenhead council and local Alzheimer’s groups means that residents can visit drop-in sessions and a display to find information and advice on all aspects of the disease.

Alzheimer’s is the most common form of dementia, a term used to describe various different brain disorders in which there is a loss of brain function that is usually progressive and eventually severe.

The events planned for the week are as follows:

· Monday July 1 – Friday July 6 – Information stand in the foyer of Windsor Leisure Centre; borough social care staff will be available to offer help and advice on Wednesday July 4.

· Monday July 2, 10am – 12 noon – Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service talk on fire risk assessment in the home, at the Drop-in Centre, The Alzheimer’s Society, United Reformed Church, West Street, Maidenhead.

· Thursday July 5, 10am – 12 noon – Quiz session at the Drop-in Centre, address as above.

· Friday July 6, 10am – 12 noon – Drop-in at the Windsor Resource Centre, Youth & Community Centre, Alma Road, Windsor, for information, a chat and a coffee.

Cllr John Story, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead adult services, said: “The impact of Alzheimer’s can be devastating on individuals and those around them. It’s more than being forgetful; it robs people of their lives. Hopefully by building awareness through events like these for this special week, we can help improve support to those suffering from the disease, and their carers.”

The Royal Borough funds the Maidenhead & District Branch of the Alzheimer’s Society Befriending Service which offers support and free local services to carers and their loved ones. The borough also supports, through grants, the Triple A (Ascot Area Alzheimer’s) a voluntary organisation which offers respite care for both the carers of and the cared for, of all ages, with dementia.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Primary age children can branch out at Windsor and Maidenhead Royal Borough libraries over the summer holidays and discover new titles and authors – while doing their bit for the environment by helping the Woodland Trust plant more trees.

All Windsor and Maidenhead children between the ages of four and 12 are welcome to take a leaf out of the book of the 1,740 borough youngsters who took part last year and enrol in the popular Summer Reading Challenge.

This year’s Windsor and Maidenhead scheme is entitled The Big Wild Read and participants are challenged to read six or more books throughout the summer. To spur them on they will receive a Big Wild Read collector’s folder in which to record the details of the books they read over the summer, and as they progress they will be rewarded with a set of stickers for each book read, a holographic bookmark, an ‘eco tester’ game, a fridge magnet, a packet of Big Wild Read flower seeds and, once they have read six books, a medal and certificate.

The Summer Reading Challenge is linking up with the Woodland Trust’s Tree for All campaign and for every book they read children will also earn ‘tree points’ which will go towards planting up to 20,000 new trees in Woodland Trust areas.

Children can sign up free of charge from Saturday July 14 and can join at any point until the challenge ends on Saturday September 8 by visiting any of the borough’s libraries.

Cllr Jesse Grey, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead leisure and culture, said: “The Summer Reading Challenge is a great way to inspire children to read for fun, broaden their horizons and talk about books with their friends.

“Hopefully this year we will beat the impressive 1,740 figure and see even more children in the Royal Borough enjoy a summer of reading. Parents and carers will find it’s a great way to connect with their youngsters’ reading and engage with nature in the long summer break.”

Katie Farrell, young people’s librarian, said: “If any child is unsure about what to read, they are welcome to speak to library staff who will be only too happy to suggest interesting books and new authors for them to try.”

To complement the Big Wild Read, children can join in other fun and free activities throughout the summer holidays:

Jungle storytimes for the under-fives:
These involve stories on a jungle theme and a jungle-influenced craft activity such as making an animal mask. Booking is required at the library where the event is being held. The programme is:

· Ascot Tuesday July 31 10.30 – 11am
· Maidenhead Tuesday July 31 2.15 – 3pm
· Dedworth Thursday August 9 10.30 – 11am
· Windsor Friday August 10 10.30 – 11am
· Cox Green Tuesday August 14 2.15 – 3pm
· Cookham Monday August 20 2.15 – 3pm
· Datchet Friday August 31 2.15 – 2.45pm

Jo Jingles music times for five to nine-year-olds:
A mixture of music, movement, singing and dance, these are fun events that get the children moving. Booking is required. The programme is:

· Cox Green Thursday July 26 10.30 – 11.15am
· Old Windsor Tuesday July 31 10.30 – 11.15am
· Cookham Thursday August 2 10.30 – 11.15am
· Windsor Friday August 3 10 – 10.45am
· Maidenhead Wednesday August 22 10 – 10.45am

Book Blast craft events:
These are drop-in sessions – children can turn up and leave any time during the session. They can access stories from the web, get help choosing books for the reading challenge and help turn their library into an urban jungle by making a variety of creatures, flowers and bugs to add to the display. The programme is:

· Maidenhead Wednesday July 25 10.30am – 12 noon
· Dedworth Thursday August 2 10.30am – 12.30pm
· Cookham Monday August 6 2.30 – 4.30pm
· Ascot Tuesday August 7 10.30am – 12.30pm
· Eton Wick Tuesday August 7 2.30 – 4.30pm
· Cox Green Wednesday August 8 2.30 – 4.30pm
· Datchet Wednesday August 15 10.30am – 12.30pm
· Windsor Tuesday August 21 2.30 – 4.30pm

For further information on the Big Wild Read call Katie Farrell on 01628 796974. Library information is available at www.rbwm.gov.uk/web/youngpeoples_library.htm

For more information about the Tree for All campaign visit www.woodlandtrust.org.uk or www.treeforall.org.uk

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Maidenhead: 8 July - 14 July 2007
Altwood Road
Maidenhead
SL6 4PF
01628 788997

8th July at Maidenhead

* Performances
* 4:00 pm
High School Musical
* 8:00 pm
High School Musical
* Workshops and other events
* 10:00 am
Tracy Brienza

9th July at Maidenhead

No events planned

10th July at Maidenhead

* Performances
* 8:00 pm
The Namesake (12A)

11th July at Maidenhead

* Performances
* 7:30 pm
Nostos
* Workshops and other events
* 5:30 pm
Summer Ceramics: The work of local potters

12th July at Maidenhead

* Workshops and other events
* 5:30 pm
Summer Ceramics: The work of local potters

13th July at Maidenhead

* Performances
* 8:00 pm
The Lives of Others (Das Leben Der Anderen) (15)
* Workshops and other events
* 5:30 pm
Summer Ceramics: The work of local potters

14th July at Maidenhead

* Performances
* 7:30 pm
Last of the Summer Wine - Treading the Boards
* Workshops and other events
* 5:30 pm
Summer Ceramics: The work of local potters