Maidenhead & Windsor

The Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough's home care and rapid response and rehabilitation teams have notched up 'good' and 'excellent' ratings in this year's Commission for Social Care Inspection (CSCI) – a further improvement on last year's two 'goods'.

To celebrate their success, the teams are gathering at the Thames Valley Athletics Centre, Pococks Lane, Eton, on Wednesday October 31 from 2.25pm to 4.30pm.

At the same time the loyalty and dedication of 41 Windsor and Maidenhead staff will be recognised through long service awards. These will be presented by the Mayor, Cllr Leo Walters, including to six employees who will receive an award for 25 years or more service.

Also attending the celebration will be Cllr John Story, lead member for adult services, Allan Brown, head of adult services, and Helen Latter, head of joint intermediate care.

Windsor and Maidenhead Cllr Story said: "The home care and rapid response and rehabilitation teams do a wonderful job and show great commitment to providing a high quality service to borough residents. This event is a chance to recognise and thank them for all their efforts."

The home care service provides care and support for frail and vulnerable adults who require complex packages of care to enable them to remain in their own homes for as long as possible rather than having to go into long-term residential or nursing care.

The rapid response and rehabilitation service provides intensive short-term support to people who may need a programme of physio and/or occupational therapy treatment or equipment to regain their independence. The team also provides a 24-hour social care crisis intervention service and practical hands-on assessment of long-term needs.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Generous Windsor and Maidenhead coffee drinkers and cake eaters raised a stirring £305 at the Mayor's Macmillan coffee morning held in the council chamber in the Town Hall.

Joining the Windsor and Maidenhead Mayor, Cllr Leo Walters, for a cuppa and a tempting spread of home-made sponges, fruit cakes, Battenberg, flapjacks and fairy cakes was the Mayoress, Mrs Margot Walters, the Deputy Mayor, Cllr Dorothy Kemp, residents, councillors, council employees and Theresa May, MP for Maidenhead.

Cllr Walters has chosen Macmillan Cancer Support as the charity for his year in office and the coffee and cake morning was the first fundraising event.

Macmillan Cancer Support works to improve the lives of people affected by cancer through practical, medical, emotional and financial support. Its theme for this year's countrywide coffee mornings is 'Help create a huge stir'.

Windsor and Maidenhead Cllr Walters said: "I would like to thank everyone involved in the event, including the talented home bakers who donated such delicious cakes and sponges and those who contributed so generously to this charity.

"Cancer affects so many people, either directly or through a loved one's suffering, and I am pleased to be able to help Macmillan's efforts in this way."

Future fundraising events for the Mayor's charity will include a dinner dance next spring. Residents or businesses looking for further information should contact the Mayor's secretary, Alison Singleton, on 01628 796223.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Windsor and Maidenhead Residents and developers who flout planning regulations or conditions are being warned by the Royal Borough that they could face enforcement action.

The warning follows eight recent successful enforcement prosecutions in local courts, demonstrating the Windsor and Maidenhead council's determination to take a tough approach to protect the local environment.

The prosecutions covered a range of offences, including unauthorised works to protected trees, non compliance with enforcement notices and non compliance with notices requiring land and buildings to be tidied up. All prosecutions resulted in convictions and fines of up to £8,000.

Cllr Derek Wilson, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead planning and housing, said it was unfortunate the council had to resort to court action to get people to adhere to planning legislation.

He added: "Planning laws are in place to help make the best use of our built environment for the benefit of everyone. These successful prosecutions highlight that the council will not sit back and allow people to flout planning regulations, particularly when advice for householders and small businesses is readily available from our professional planning officers."

Cllr Alison Knight, chief whip and lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead strategy, said: "I am pleased to see the borough taking a tough line against those who choose to break or ignore the rules. We made a firm manifesto pledge on enforcement action to protect our residents from inappropriate development and we are putting our words into action."

Earlier this year the Windsor and Maidenhead council also warned that it would not hesitate to take enforcement action against developers if they failed to comply with the terms of their planning conditions, resulting in long delays and additional cost if they had to submit further planning applications.

The Royal Borough advises everyone to seek planning advice before starting work. Advice is available through the council's customer service centre on 01628 683810.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

The Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough will once again join the country's tribute to those who gave their lives in two world wars and the many subsequent conflicts with acts of remembrance in both Maidenhead and Windsor on Remembrance Day (Sunday November 11).

At 10.45am in Windsor the Mayor, Cllr Leo Walters, will lead the Act of Remembrance at the war memorial in the High Street, where there will be a wreath-laying ceremony. Rev Mary Barnes will officiate at both the war memorial and at the service to follow in the parish church, both of which will be attended by local ex-service men and women and members of uniformed youth organisations.

Drivers should avoid Park Street, High Street, River Street, Goswell Road, Osborne Road, Alma Road, Claremont Road and Sheet Street between 10.30am and 12 noon.

In Maidenhead the Deputy Mayor, Cllr Dorothy Kemp, will lead the civic party for the Act of Remembrance and wreath-laying at the war memorial, St Ives Road. Starting at 10.50am, the event will also be attended by representatives of ex-service and uniformed youth organisations.

The service of remembrance will be held afterwards in the Borough Church of St Mary, conducted by Rev Will Stileman, and afterwards there will be a march past with the salute taken by Cllr Kemp outside the Town Hall.

Drivers are advised to avoid the High Street, St Ives Road and Bridge Avenue area from 10am to 11.10am and from about 12.30pm to 1pm.

The events in both towns are traditionally well attended by people from throughout the community, including MPs, local magistrates, former mayors and councillors and the general public.

Orders of service will be available at the two war memorials so that everyone who attends will have the opportunity to play a full part in the proceedings.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

A sample of Windsor and Maidenhead parents and carers in the Royal Borough are being given the chance to shape the future of childcare and early years education.

The Windsor and Maidenhead council's Early Years and Childcare Service has commissioned Morgans Research Ltd to carry out a telephone survey with parents and carers in the area from Monday October 29 to Friday December 7. Those responsible for children aged from birth to 18 years will be asked about their current and future childcare requirements to identify their needs and where any gaps exist with the current provision.

Windsor and Maidenhead Parents who are approached during the telephone survey will be asked several questions including how many children they have and what childcare, if any, they use. The findings will be used only to improve childcare services and any information given will remain confidential.

In addition to the telephone survey the Early Years and Childcare Service has contacted all registered childcare providers in the Windsor and Maidenhead borough to assess the provision of childcare - including costs, facilities, opening times and the numbers of places offered. It will also be using its own Children's Information Service to monitor current and proposed Ofsted registered childcare.

Cllr Eileen Quick, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead children's services, said: "This is a great opportunity for parents and carers to have their say about childcare and early years education provision.

"Once all the views have been collated, the Royal Borough will carry out an in-depth assessment of the availability of childcare locally and will publish findings in early 2008. It will then consult on these findings with parents, childcare providers, employers and the wider community. The assessment will be used by the council to further plan and develop childcare across the borough."

The Childcare Act 2006 requires local authorities to carry out a sufficiency assessment that measures the nature, extent, need and supply of childcare within their area. Parents requiring further information about the survey or childcare in general should contact the Windsor and Maidenhead Children's Information Service on 01628 781430.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

As the bonfire season approaches, Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough trading standards officers are warning members of the public to buy fireworks only from legitimate businesses.

The alert follows last week's theft of professional display fireworks from premises in Maidenhead with officers warning the devices could be 'extremely dangerous'. These fireworks may only be supplied to professional operators and should not be used by amateurs.

Windsor and Maidenhead Cllr Colin Rayner, lead member for highways, transport and the environment, said: "The wellbeing of our residents is of paramount concern and we urge all members of the public to think about being safe - not what they could save - if they are offered fireworks from an unreputable source. They should only be purchased from established shops and not from car boot sales, markets, door-to-door sales or from the back of a van.

"While these fireworks may be spectacular in a controlled display, they are extremely dangerous if used incorrectly."

Windsor and Maidenhead Trading standards officer Rob Abell said: "Under no circumstances should members of the general public consider using these professional display fireworks. Untrained people have been killed by fireworks intended for professionals in recent years, as they do not have the necessary knowledge or equipment to use them safely.

"It is also against the law for a member of the public to possess this category of firework. Our strong advice is to only buy fireworks from sources you know and trust."

Rob added: "While we have particular concerns about these fireworks, residents must not forget that even the most straightforward devices can be dangerous if used incorrectly. A sparkler can reach temperatures of 2,000 degrees Celsius, and injuries caused by them have increased each year for the past five years."

Residents are being encouraged to enjoy fireworks responsibly but to be aware of their neighbours and abide by the law. The following legal requirements apply:

· It is a criminal offence for retailers to sell fireworks to anyone under the age of 18 and for under 18s to possess fireworks in a public place.

· It is an offence to release fireworks from 11pm to 7am, except on November 5, when this time is extended to midnight, and on New Year's Eve, Chinese New Year and Diwali when it is extended to 1am. Anyone caught letting off fireworks outside these hours may be fined.

· The noise levels of fireworks are controlled and, in this context, certain fireworks are no longer available, such as air bombs, shells or bangers.

· It is an offence for people who are not professionals to buy and possess category 4 devices, such as those stolen in Maidenhead last week, which are for use at public displays.

· It is an offence to throw or let off fireworks in any highway, street, thoroughfare or public place.

· Shops are required by law to be licensed by their trading standards service to store fireworks for sale. This licence does not have to be displayed, but residents with concerns about any shops selling fireworks can call trading standards on 01628 683802.

· Retailers must carry out risk assessments regarding the storage of their fireworks and there are strict controls on the location, method of storage and amount of fireworks that can be stored.

· Retailers must only sell fireworks that conform to British Safety Standards and meet certain noise conditions.

· Fireworks for public use must have BS 7114 printed on the box.

Unless they have an annual licence, shops may only sell fireworks during the following periods:

· October 15 to November 10

· December 26 to 31

· Chinese New Year and three days before

· the first day of Diwali and the three days before.

Trading Standards will be visiting shops after the November deadline to ensure traders have removed fireworks from sale.

Trading standards' advice to borough residents is:

· If you notice any retailers flouting the rules, report them in confidence to trading standards

on 01628 683802.

· If anyone is using fireworks illegally in public places, or you see children with fireworks, report them to Thames Valley Police on 08458 505505.

· For further details on fireworks, go to www.berr.gov.uk/fireworks

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Maidenhead: 4 November - 10 November 2007
Altwood Road
Maidenhead
SL6 4PF
01628 788997

4th November in Maidenhead

* Workshops and other events
* 10:00 am
Perspectives: Special trees of the Chilterns
* 1:30 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group D
* 4:00 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group E

5th November in Maidenhead

No events planned

6th November in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 10:15 am
Around the World in 80 Minutes
* 1:15 pm
Around the World in 80 Minutes
* Workshops and other events
* 11:15 am
Giddha Dance
* 2:00 pm
Perspectives: Special trees of the Chilterns
* 4:30 pm
Bollywood Dance
* 5:45 pm
Norden Exposure Youth Dance
* 7:00 pm
Norden Exposure Academy

7th November in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 8:00 pm
Ralph McTell
* Workshops and other events
* 10:30 am
Embroidery with a Sewing Machine
* 2:00 pm
Perspectives: Special trees of the Chilterns
* 4:15 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group A
* 5:30 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group B
* 6:45 pm
Norden Lights Academy

8th November in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 7:30 pm
Amy Dickson (saxophone), Catherine Milledge (piano)
* 7:45 pm
Tilting the Mirror
* Workshops and other events
* 10:30 am
Jewellery: Make silver rings, pendants and bracelets
* 2:00 pm
Perspectives: Special trees of the Chilterns
* 2:00 pm
Writing a Novel for Publication
* 5:00 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group C
* 6:00 pm
Tabla Drumming
* 6:15 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group F

9th November in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 8:00 pm
Milton Jones - Caught in a Rabbit's Headlights
* Workshops and other events
* 10:30 am
Fun at the Farm
* 2:00 pm
Perspectives: Special trees of the Chilterns
* 7:15 pm
Life Drawing

10th November in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 11:00 am
The Boy Who Grew Flowers
* 3:00 pm
The Boy Who Grew Flowers
* 7:30 pm
St John’s Chamber Orchestra
* 7:45 pm
Cabaret Night with Rebecca Caine
* Workshops and other events
* 9:30 am
Kathak Dance
* 10:00 am
Perspectives: Special trees of the Chilterns
* 10:00 am
International Film History: Development, Theory and Analysis
* 10:30 am
Kathak Dance - Intermediate
* 11:30 am
Kathak Dance

Maidenhead Arts Cafe,
Methodist Church Hall,
High Street,
Maidenhead,
Berkshire,
SL6 1EF.
Friday 7th december

Likened to a young Sheryl Crow or Stevie Nicks, Esther, (daughter of Wet Wet Wet’s Graeme Duffin) made her entrance to the music scene in 2000 when just 17 years old.

Publishing and recording contracts followed with BMG and EMI Chrysalis and the next 3 years saw Esther, with former band Ashton Lane, touring around the UK including performances at ‘T in the Park’ and ‘V Festivals’.

The cafe provides high quality entertainment in relaxed, informal surroundings. Events take place in the recently refurbished hall of the Methodist Church at the top of the High Street in Maidenhead. Drinks (Tea, Coffee, Cappuccino, J2O's, Coke etc) are available from our bar, along with various light snacks throughout the evening.

Entrance is by ticket (£5:00 available on the door, or in advance). Contact us on info@artscafe.org for details or tickets.

Maidenhead Arts Cafe

A bumper crop of Windsor and Maidenhead young sportsmen and women will step up to the "winners rostrum" next week to receive Royal Borough recognition of their sporting achievements.

Twenty budding young Windsor and Maidenhead sports enthusiasts from across the borough – representing sports ranging from rugby, swimming and rowing to chess, trampolining and even dragon boating - will head up a glittering line-up of sporting successes being honoured at the annual Celebration of Leisure and Cultural Achievement.

The 20 budding young sports "stars" will be presented with Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough sports bursaries – awarded twice-yearly by the Royal Borough to help athletes with travelling costs, coaching fees and equipment - at this year's presentation evening to be held at Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Altwood Road, Maidenhead on Monday October 29 at 7pm.

Presenting the awards will be Henley-based Olympic rower Sarah Winckless, an Olympic bronze medallist at the Athens Olympics in 2004 and member of the gold medal-winning women's quad at the 2005 and 2006 World Championships.

There will also be presentations to winners of sporting competitions in this summer's 13-19 holiday activities programme including fishing, skateboarding and BMX-flipstyle; and to participants and managers who took part in the Berkshire Youth Festivals.

A number of Windsor and Maidenhead schools awards will also be on the programme including:

Charters and Windsor School Sport Partnerships – for a teacher and school who have developed high-quality PE and sport
Charters Sports College for its Dreams and Teams programme
Windsor Sports Partnership – for a student who has just been offered a martial arts scholarship.

Recipients of Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough arts bursaries – who were presented with their awards earlier in the year - are also in for a special mention during the ceremony. Two of this year's recipients will be performing during the evening – Dan Rhodes playing the piano and Charlotte Luxton singing. Next year the two bursary ceremonies will be held on the same evening.

Two sports coaches with Maidenhead and District Cycling Club – John Percy of Maidenhead and Nigel Shurben of Windsor – are in line for coach bursary awards, and the annual lifetime achievement award will also be announced on the night.

Cllr Jesse Grey, lead member for leisure and culture, said: "I am delighted to see so many young people being rewarded in this way for their dedication and commitment to their chosen sports.

"They have all worked very hard to develop their talents and should be very proud of their achievements. These bursaries will hopefully help them to continue that commitment and enable them to develop their sporting skills even further in the future."

Rowing tops the list of sporting successes in this year's bursary list, with six awards going to:
· Daisy Colsell (16) Old Windsor – a medal winner in national junior sculling tournaments and winner of various local regattas
· Ross Gilmour (17) Old Windsor – gold medallist in national championships and home internationals and bronze medallist at the national schools championships Ross is hoping to step up to the men's lightweight category and represent Great Britain
· Matilda Horn (14) Windsor – a sculler for the last three years, Matilda has taken part in local regattas and in doubles at national level
· Francesca Lovely (15) Windsor – winner of 200m races in singles, doubles and quad events at both national and international events
· Ertan Hazine (15) Maidenhead – bronze medallist in the pairs at the National Schools Regatta this year and won gold at July's home counties event in Ireland
· Toby Johncox (16) Oakley Green, Windsor – member of a winning team at both local regattas and the national championships in 2003 and 2004, Toby has represented Great Britain on numerous occasions.

Tennis boasts four bursary recipients:
· Chloe Lant (10) Maidenhead – ranks in the top seven players nationwide in the under-10 category, number 4 in Berkshire under-12s and 150th in the country at under-12
· George Hedley (10) Maidenhead – currently ranked number 1 in Berkshire, George has also represented the county as the number one seed
· Shona Young (13) Maidenhead – represents Berkshire County under-14 and under-18 tennis team and ranked in the top 100 nationally.
· Lindsey Young (11) Maidenhead – represents Maidenhead Tennis Club's under-12 and under-114s and ranked 62 in under-12s nationally.

Swimming – two bursary recipients:
· Danielle Moore (10) Maidenhead – has competed at county and southern counties level for several years at backstroke events
· Sophie Naish (11) Maidenhead – achieved top ten-year-old girl at Hereford open meeting this month, and has qualified for 13 events at the county championships this year and eight at the South East Regional Championships.

Other sports represented:
· Anna Holloway (11) – Maidenhead (netball) nominated by St Edmund Campion School as a gifted child with special talents, Anna has been selected to play for Berkshire following a series of trials
· Ainsley Campbell (14) – Old Windsor (athletics/sprinting) – under-15 Berkshire county champion in the 100m and 200m and currently ranked 10th at 400m.
· Patrick Mooney (13) – Sunningdale (rugby) – he has recently been selected to represent London and the south of England this season in matches against north-east England, Cumbria and Wales
· Matthew Wadsworth (7) – Maidenhead (chess) – top rated player in England for his age and plays for various Berkshire county age group teams up to and including under 13s, he has recently been picked to represent England (Under-8 boys) in the World Youth Championships in Antalya, Turkey in November.
· Lauren Love (17) - Maidenhead (trampolining) - Lauren has taken part in trampolining competitions for the last six years and has worked her way up from grade five (regional) to the current position of grade 2 competing at national level.
· Rosie Walsh (13) – Horton (aerobic/gymnastics) – currently mixed pair champion and a member of the British squad. Competed in the French Open championships in May.
· Sam Orgill (15) Wraysbury (dragon boating) –winner of three silver medals for Great Britain in Prague. Sam has recently returned from the World Dragon Boat Championships in Sydney, Australia, where he represented Great Britain in the under-18 category.

For further information about the bursary awards contact Polly Westell, sports development officer, on 01753 860173.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Applicants for British citizenship can now be assured their forms are filled in correctly before they are sent to the Home Office, thanks to the Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough's nationality application checking service which launches on Thursday November 1.

The aim of the service – a partnership between the Home Office's immigration and nationality directorate and a number of local authorities in England and Wales – is to reduce delays in processing applications.

A Windsor and Maidenhead borough citizenship officer will:

· check the forms are properly completed
· check, copy and certify documents
· ensure all supporting documentation is attached to the application, and
· despatch forms to the Home Office by special delivery.

All supporting documentation is copied and certified so that the applicant can keep the originals, including passports, rather than sending them to the Home Office.

Clair Williams, superintendent registrar, said: "Through this service we can ease the process for applicants by providing expert advice and assistance. It has proven very popular in other areas where it has already been introduced."

The Windsor and Maidenhead service is by appointment only. Bookings and further information, including fees, are available on 01628 796991 or at registrar@rbwm.gov.uk

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

The Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough has stepped up its campaign to retain 24/7 fire cover in Windsor by lodging an application to the High Court for permission to seek a judicial review of Berkshire Fire Authority's decision to close the town's fire station at night.

Cllr David Burbage, Windsor and Maidenhead council leader, said: "Earlier this year the Council agreed a strong action plan to save 24-hour fire cover for Windsor. Having taken counsel's advice, we are now prepared to take legal action to help ensure that Windsor has the level of fire cover it needs, both for our residents and for the many thousands of visitors to the town every year.

"It is very unfortunate that we have had to resort to the courts to help us overturn the fire authority's decision but we made a firm promise to our Windsor residents to do everything within the council's power to save night-time cover at their local fire station. Legal advice tells us that we stand a good chance of securing a judicial review and we expect our application to he heard in about two months."

The Windsor and Maidenhead council is seeking leave for judicial review on the grounds that the fire authority based its decision on historical figures and without proper assessment of future risks and demands as a result of continuing population increases in both Windsor and Slough. The council also contends that the consultation process was defective and unlawful because it did not contain enough information to allow people to give 'intelligent consideration' or 'intelligent response' to the proposal to withdraw night-time cover.

Cllr Christine Bateson, one of the Windsor and Maidenhead borough's fire authority representatives, said: "Residents have spoken loud and clear against the decision to axe the night-time cover and it's up to us to continue the fight on their behalf."

Following the fire authority's decision to provide Windsor cover from Slough between 8pm and 8am, the Royal Borough unanimously passed a motion deploring the move. The council also agreed an action plan that includes Freedom of Information requests for details of fire calls to both Windsor and Slough stations and letters to local MPs and to the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, to enlist their support. A letter was also sent to the Queen, whose own home in Windsor was badly damaged by fire 1992.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

A trio of "golden girls" from Maidenhead are among the latest clutch of Royal Borough youngsters to rub shoulders with royalty as they celebrate top honours in the prestigious Duke of Edinburgh's Award.

The successful threesome all completed their gold awards at the borough's Outdoor Education Project based at Castle Hill Centre in Maidenhead.

Caroline Lander (18) and 19-year-olds Nicola Steven and Ailsa Harris have each worked their way up through the Bronze, Silver and Gold levels of the popular award scheme.

They are among 11 young people from across the borough who will be heading for St James' Palace in London in the coming weeks to receive their coveted certificates.

Other high-achievers in the popular award scheme include pupils from Claires Court School in Maidenhead, St Mary's School, Ascot, Heathfield St Mary's School in Ascot and one independent candidate.

To qualify for their gold award, 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 away from home working on a special and constructive project.

Cllr Eileen Quick, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead children's services, said: "These presentations are a very special occasion for all the young people involved – and something they will remember for the rest of their lives.

"Every one of them has worked long and hard to achieve this success and should be very very proud of their commitment and enthusiasm which has helped them achieve their goals.

"I hope that these successes will inspire more young people to take up the challenge of working towards the Duke of Edinburgh award - which really is a unique opportunity for young people to grow in confidence as they learn new skills and make new friends at the same time."

For further information about the award contact the Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough's Award Co-ordinator Catherine Hurst on 01628 796478.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

The Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough looks set to sharpen its focus on security and crime investigation with a proposed upgrade of its CCTV system – and the potential installation of seven further cameras.

The matter will be discussed at the planning and environment overview and scrutiny panel meeting on Monday October 29. If Windsor and Maidenhead Cabinet gives its go-ahead on Thursday November 22 the existing analogue CCTV system, which records to VHS tapes, will be replaced by an up-to-the-minute digital system at a cost of £200,000.

There are also bids for possible new CCTV camera locations. Proposals have already been put forward for two at The Green, Wraysbury, and one each at Wessex Way (Cox Green), Maidenhead Riverside, Shifford Crescent (Furze Platt), Bray car park and Hythe End.

In addition, Windsor and Maidenhead council is investigating the viability of introducing its own own IP (internet protocol) network. This would replace the existing fibre optic network and would mean any future expansion of CCTV coverage would be cheaper and easier to implement.

Cllr Jesse Grey, lead member for community safety, said: "This would be a major step forward. While our analogue system has served us well since it was introduced in 1996, and with more than 1,000 arrests per year attributed to its use, it is reaching the end of its useful life.

"A digital system would offer a more efficient way of working – and could save us money in the long term through lower camera installation costs."

Digital CCTV, which has become the industry standard, is much easier to search for specific incidents, making it a useful tool for police investigations. Digital recordings are also widely accepted as evidence in court.

At present there are 170 cameras around the borough. The control room also monitors cameras on behalf of Bracknell Forest Borough Council and Sandhurst Town Council and hosts the Police Automatic Number Plate Recognition system.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Heavy goods vehicles of more than 13 tonnes will be diverted away from Maidenhead's Gardner Road rail bridge with the introduction of a new weight restriction from next week.

The 13 tonne gross vehicle weight limit, together with a 6m width restriction, is being introduced for safety reasons following a joint inspection of the bridge by Network Rail and the Windsor and Maidenhead Royal Borough.

The inspection showed that parts of the bridge structure need strengthening and the weight restriction will be in force until the necessary work can be carried out by Network Rail.

The weight limit and road narrowing will not affect emergency vehicles or bus services but will require HGVs over 13 tonnes to take alternative routes (mainly via the A404 and A4). The Windsor and Maidenhead council is organising for diversion signs to be placed on all approach roads so that drivers are given plenty of warning about the new restrictions.

Stephen Brown, the council's head of Windsor and Maidenhead highways and engineering, said: "Parts of the bridge structure have deteriorated and the restrictions are necessary to ensure the safety of the travelling public. We are working very closely with Network Rail to ensure that the majority of vehicles can use the bridge as normal.

"We envisage that the restrictions will not have any appreciable effect on anyone other than drivers of HGVs over 13 tonnes and we will be making very sure that diversion signs are prominently displayed to give drivers plenty of warning."

The Gardner Road rail bridge (B4447) carries traffic from the Magnet roundabout in Maidenhead north to Cookham, crossing the Cookham/Bourne End branch line just before its junction with Switchback Road North. The restrictions will be introduced as soon as the erection of diversion signs is complete.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Police are appealing for witnesses after an armed robbery at a jewellers in Windsor this afternoon (22/10).

At around 5pm three men, believed to be armed with a gun, threatened staff at Berrys jewellers in Peascod Street, Windsor. They stole an undisclosed amount of jewellery and ran off in the direction of the Save the Children charity shop.

The men are white, in their late twenties and early thirties. One was wearing a blue anorak and one was dressed in black.

Windsor Det Sgt Emma Brown, investigating the incident, said: “This was a frightening incident for the staff in the shop and they have been left shaken and distressed. I am sure there were a lot of people in the street at that time of day and I am keen to speak to anyone who saw the men running away or who has any information.

Det Sgt Brown can be contacted via the Police Enquiry centre on 0845 8 505 505. Alternatively, if you don’t want to speak to police or leave your name, call the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

Thames Valley Police ~ Windsor

Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough residents are once again being urged to carve out a name for themselves in the Hallowe'en stakes as the season of ghosts, ghouls and pumpkins beckons.

Young and old alike will have another chance to prove they're a cut above the rest as they get into the spirit at Windsor's second pumpkin party on Saturday October 27 from 1 – 4pm at Windsor Royal Shopping.

Following the success of last year's "pilot" pumpkin party, Windsor and Eton Town Partnership and Windsor Royal Shopping are gearing up to celebrate the ancient feast of All Hallows with a mouthwatering menu of activities, kicking off with traditional pumpkin carving.

Local artist Tania Holland will be running her popular pumpkin sculpting workshops throughout the afternoon – and Royal Borough mayor Cllr Leo Walters will present prizes for the best pumpkin faces.

Storyteller Billy Teare is travelling all the way from Northern Ireland to bring alive the true spirit of Hallowe'en with three ghostly storytime sessions throughout the afternoon.

A seasonal pumpkin hunt around the town will add to the festive flavour – with participants following the trail of clues and answering questions found inside each carved pumpkin.

There will be prizes - including three sets of family tickets to Legoland Windsor 2008 – for the highest score in the pumpkin hunt and also for the best fancy dress.

For further information contact Paul Roach, Windsor and Eton Town Manager, on 01753 743931.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Maidenhead: 28 October - 3 November 2007
Altwood Road
Maidenhead
SL6 4PF
01628 788997

28th October in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 7:30 pm
Laurie Holloway and his Trio: Jazz Meets Classical
* Workshops and other events
* 10:00 am
Perspectives: Special trees of the Chilterns
* 1:30 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group D
* 4:00 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group E

29th October in Maidenhead

No events planned

30th October in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 7:30 pm
Madame Lucinda's Wonder Show
* Workshops and other events
* 11:15 am
Giddha Dance
* 2:00 pm
Perspectives: Special trees of the Chilterns
* 4:30 pm
Bollywood Dance
* 5:45 pm
Norden Exposure Youth Dance
* 7:00 pm
Norden Exposure Academy

31st October in Maidenhead

* Workshops and other events
* 10:30 am
Embroidery with a Sewing Machine
* 2:00 pm
Perspectives: Special trees of the Chilterns
* 4:15 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group A
* 5:30 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group B
* 6:45 pm
Norden Lights Academy
* 7:00 pm
Reading Group

1st November in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 8:00 pm
Show of Hands
* Workshops and other events
* 9:00 am
Creative Writing: Making Yourself Heard
* 10:30 am
Jewellery: Make silver rings, pendants and bracelets
* 2:00 pm
Perspectives: Special trees of the Chilterns
* 2:00 pm
Writing a Novel for Publication
* 5:00 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group C
* 6:00 pm
Tabla Drumming
* 6:15 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group F

2nd November in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 8:00 pm
Alvin Youngblood Hart
* Workshops and other events
* 10:30 am
Fun at the Farm
* 2:00 pm
Perspectives: Special trees of the Chilterns
* 7:15 pm
Life Drawing

3rd November in Maidenhead

* Workshops and other events
* 9:30 am
Kathak Dance
* 10:00 am
Perspectives: Special trees of the Chilterns
* 10:00 am
International Film History: Development, Theory and Analysis
* 10:30 am
Kathak Dance - Intermediate
* 11:30 am
Kathak Dance

There's something for everyone at a unique celebration of black history to be held in Windsor later this month.

Art and history exhibitions line up alongside dance and music performances in the cultural and historical event to be held at The Guildhall, High Street, on Tuesday and Wednesday October 23 and 24 as part of Black History Month.

Organised by the Royal Borough, Windsor Housing and Windsor and Maidenhead Voluntary Action, the free daytime events and displays (from 12 noon to 4pm each day) include:
· art exhibitions
· the history of the abolition of slavery
· local black and minority ethnic history and culture
· children's entertainment, dance and music performances
· tours of the Guildhall.

A special FREE film night on Tuesday October 23 from 6 to 8pm will show a range of films about different cultures, including some made by local community groups. Refreshments will be provided. Booking in advance will guarantee a place – call Rachel Bennett on 07770 846693 or email community@windsorhousing.org.uk

Cllr Jesse Grey, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead leisure and culture, said: "This celebration is a wonderful opportunity to learn more about a range of different cultures and their rich and varied histories.

"I am delighted that we are hosting such an exciting event, which demonstrates the council's ongoing commitment to diversity and equality. I would urge as many people as possible to take advantage of the chance to absorb some of the fascinating information which will be available at the Guildhall."

Cllr Eileen Quick, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead children's services, said: "It is very important for children to learn something of the different cultures of our world. This celebration will bring many cultures to life in a dramatic way which will encourage children's interest and involvement. They will hopefully enjoy the lesson-with-a-difference and take away with them a better understanding of the traditions of some of our diverse communities."

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

The Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough has joined forces with other local authorities to call for the immediate publication of a study measuring the impact of aircraft noise on people's lives.

Windsor and Maidenhead – along with the other local authorities which make up the 2M group campaigning against the expansion of Heathrow – is urging transport minister Jim Fitzpatrick to publish as a matter of urgency the key six-year study, scheduled to be used as part of the impending consultation on a third runway.

The Attitudes to Noise from Aviation Sources in England study (ANASE) was instigated in 2001 to update the previous study carried out nearly 20 years earlier in 1982 – and described by the then transport minister Bob Ainsworth as "underpinning our policy on aircraft noise by substantial research that commands the widest possible confidence".

The 2M group (so called because it is made up of councils representing two million people who live around Heathrow) sought assurances from the current transport minister that the study's findings would be made available as part of the consultation.

Following the minister's declaration that the consultation could go ahead without the study, the 2M group is now campaigning for the study's immediate release.

Cllr David Burbage, Windsor and Maidenhead council leader, said: "We are determined to press the minister to release the findings of this important study before the start of the consultation on the third runway.

"This is the first major noise study for more than 20 years, and will provide vital new evidence of modern-day attitudes to noise. It is unthinkable that it could be 'buried' just at the time when ministers are about to unveil plans for the biggest expansion of Heathrow since Terminal Five, which in itself was supposed to be the last."

The government will publish a consultation document later this year confirming that, in its view, a third runway would, subject to certain conditions, meet EU noise and air quality tests. The same consultation will also include plans for making increased use of the two existing runways before adding a third runway in 2015.

The number of flights at the airport could go up from the current annual limit of 480,000 to near 800,000. The increase is equivalent to building a new airport at least the size of Gatwick.

Windsor and Maidenhead Cllr Burbage added: "Anyone who lives in the area and under the flight paths is well aware of the intolerable situation that has been permitted to develop over the years as a result of successive developments, broken promises and the continued growth in aircraft movements.

"What 'might' have been acceptable more than 20 years ago is not acceptable in 2007. This study confirms that the levels of annoyance being caused by current noise levels and the ever-increasing frequency of movements have now surpassed any standards of acceptance and the report must be released prior to any further deliberations. Not to do so is tantamount to public deception and shows disregard of outrageous proportions."

The 2M group comprises the London Boroughs of Ealing, Hammersmith and Fulham, Hillingdon, Hounslow, Kensington and Chelsea, Merton, Richmond and Wandsworth. Authorities outside London include Slough, South Bucks, Spelthorne and Windsor and Maidenhead.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Special offers and discounts are on the cards for Windsor and Maidenhead Royal Borough residents later this month, thanks to the autumn Advantage Weekend (Saturday and Sunday October 27 and 28).

Timed to coincide with the half-term break, the weekend is geared towards local Advantage Card holders who will be able to enjoy even more than the usual discounts at retail, leisure and tourist venues around the borough.

Cllr Jesse Grey, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead leisure and culture, said: "The Advantage Weekend is a great opportunity for local families to enjoy additional discounts at a quieter time of year and try out new places and attractions, right on their doorstep, which could be fun places to take visiting family and friends in the future."

Special offers over the weekend include:

· free gym inductions at the Magnet, Windsor and Charters leisure centres
· free sauna/steam/jacuzzi passes at the Magnet and Windsor leisure centres
· free personal training consultations plus the chance to win one of four personal training sessions with Foundation Personal Training
· £1 discount on City Sightseeing open-top double decker bus tours for adults and those who have concessionary fares – and children go FREE when accompanied by an adult or concessionary fare user
· £5 discount on entry to Legoland Windsor
· 10% off the food bill at Norden's Restaurant, Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Maidenhead
· An exclusive Advantage Weekend guided walk around Cookham with representatives of the Stanley Spencer Gallery, visiting places featured in the artist's paintings
· 20% off purchases in all three Windsor Castle shops (in addition to the usual free entry to the castle)
· Discounts on the Windsor Tales Tour and the accompanying cream tea at the Cinnamon Café.

Further details are in the latest issue of Around the Windsor and Maidenhead Royal Borough or visit www.rbwm.gov.uk and follow the links.

Advantage Cards are FREE to all residents – for further details visit www.rbwm.gov.uk or call 01628 683800. To apply for a card visit the customer service centre in the Town Hall; York House, Sheet Street, Windsor; Magnet, Windsor and Charters leisure centres and BodyZone at Braywick.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Royal Windsor Information Centre has been shortlisted for a Tourism ExSEllence award 2007. The scheme, devised by Tourism South East (TSE), acknowledges the important part played by tourist information providers in the delivery of visitor services.

The information centre, in the Old Booking Hall, Royal Windsor Station, is one of only five information service providers shortlisted in the Tourist Information Service category of the awards. The winners will be announced at a ceremony on Tuesday October 23 at the Wentworth Club in Surrey.

Cllr Elisabeth Barton, chairman of the visitor management forum, said: "There are more than 500 information outlets in England and we are absolutely delighted that Royal Windsor's visitor information centre has been recognised as one of the top five.

"The shortlisting is a well-deserved tribute to the staff who deal with hundreds of queries on subjects ranging from attractions and accommodation to parking, public transport, history and restaurants. But it does not stop there – they are also tasked with ensuring Windsor continues to attract several million visitors each year and the high standard of service these visitors receive encourages them to return time and again."

To be considered for this award, staff had to prove the information centre fulfils strict guidelines set down by TSE, including providing excellent customer service, innovative marketing and a commitment to staff training and development. Staff had to demonstrate the information centre is accessible to everyone and promotes environmental awareness, as well as undergo a mystery shopper assessment involving in-person, email and telephone enquiries.

For further information about visiting Royal Windsor, go to www.windsor.gov.uk

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

A call has gone out to local Windsor and Maidenhead people to join the global push for a greener way of living by taking part in Energy Saving Week (October 22 – 28).

The Windsor and Maidenhead Royal Borough is offering advice on how every resident can help make a positive difference at a special information stall in the Nicholsons Shopping Centre, Maidenhead, on Thursday October 25 (9am – 4pm).

Cllr Paul Etherington, chairman of the Windsor and Maidenhead council’s sustainability panel, said that in the face of climate change, local communities could make a huge impact on reducing carbon dioxide emissions (the major greenhouse gas causing climate change).

He said: “Some people often joke about climate change, saying: ‘We could do with a bit of warmer weather.’ The reality is that our climate is expected to get warmer and wetter. As rainfall patterns change, heavy rain may cause rivers to burst their banks more often and flash floods could become more common. We have seen such extremes this summer.

“The Royal Borough is supporting the Energy Saving Trust’s 11th Energy Saving Week and is urging residents to join the fight against climate change – and help make our community one of the greenest in the UK! Almost half of the UK’s carbon emissions come from our homes and personal transport, which means that at community level we can make big changes happen.”

Members of the Windsor and Maidenhead Royal Borough’s sustainability team will staff the advice stall in the Nicholsons Shopping Centre, giving people information about how to make their homes warmer and more energy efficient. There will also be the chance to enter a prize draw to win one of three Current Cost energy monitors for measuring home electricity usage with a simple easy-to-read display.

Earlier this year the council demonstrated its commitment to tackling climate change by signing the Nottingham Declaration and recently the borough joined the Carbon Trust’s Local Authority Carbon Management programme to help establish its own carbon footprint and identify projects to reduce it.

Windsor and Maidenhead Cllr Etherington added: “In our own individual homes and workplaces we can make small but significant contributions. There are no second chances for preserving everything that is precious on our planet – the things we, our children and future generations need to survive.”

For further information about energy saving, see below:

Spread the word to communities!
The Energy Saving Trust’s Community Action for Energy (CAfE) programme is specially designed to advise and support community groups of all shapes and sizes, with more information on how they can save energy or embark on exciting energy-saving projects.

Whether groups are looking for support to install a community heating project or ideas on how to help members of their community understand the benefits of becoming more energy efficient, the trust can help. Amongst its many services the CAfE programme offers free training, a community helpline and advice and information on funding. It has supported groups in activities as wide ranging as Home Energy Efficiency Bingo to Village Energy Days.

To join the CAfE network or for further information please visit www.energysavingtrust.org.uk/cafe or call 08701 261 444.

No cost and low cost solutions to help save energy straight away
Changing habits at home, as well as in communities, can have a dramatic impact on energy use.

The following top tips can help save energy, all low or no cost:

* Compost kitchen and garden waste rather than sending it to landfill.
* Turn your thermostat down. Reducing your room temperature by 1°C could cut your heating bills by up to 10 percent. You could save around £40 per year.
* Wear appropriate clothing indoors so you don’t have to turn the heating up when the weather gets colder.
* Is your water too hot? Your cylinder thermostat shouldn't need to be set higher than 60°C/140°F.
* Close your curtains at dusk to stop heat escaping through the windows.
* Always turn off the lights when you leave a room.
* Don't leave appliances on standby and remember not to leave appliances on charge unnecessarily.
* If you're not filling up the washing machine, tumble dryer or dishwasher, use the half-load or economy programme.
* Only boil as much water as you need (but remember to cover the elements if you're using an electric kettle).
* A dripping hot water tap wastes energy and in one week wastes enough hot water to fill half a bath. Fix leaking taps and make sure they are fully turned off.
* Use energy-saving lightbulbs. Just one can save you £60 over the lifetime of the bulb and they last around 10 times longer than ordinary lightbulbs.

Preventing fuel costs from going through the roof
A really significant way of saving energy in the home is to ensure that you prevent heat needlessly escaping through the windows, floors, walls or loft.

Cavity wall insulation: Most houses built after the 1920s have external walls which are made of two layers with a small air gap, or ‘cavity’, between them. Insulating your cavity walls can reduce your heating bill by up to a third. Around 10 million homes in the UK have unfilled cavity walls so it’s worthwhile finding out if yours is one of them.

The good news is filling the walls is a quick, clean, inexpensive process, costing only around £500 for a typical home and with an average fuel saving of around £90 a year.

Loft insulation: In an uninsulated home a quarter of your heating could be escaping through your roof. Ensuring you have loft insulation of at least 270mm is a highly cost-effective energy-saving measure and could save you around £110 a year.

Solid wall insulation: If your external walls are solid then you can insulate them on the inside and / or outside, saving you around £300 a year.

Double glazing: It helps to insulate the home and is becoming a ‘must have’ because of the comfort factor it provides. Double glazing can help save you around £90 a year, as well as reducing noise and condensation. If it is too expensive to replace all the windows, start with the rooms you heat most.

Are you choosing Energy Saving Recommended products?
Ensuring you buy the most energy efficient products possible is another important way of saving energy. Look for the Energy Saving Recommended logo when you next buy an electrical product. It’s your guarantee that the product is a top energy saver.

The logo appears on over 2,000 products including integrated digital televisions, boilers, heating controls, insulation, lighting, fridges, fridge freezers, tumble dryers and washing machines.

The latest list of Energy Saving Recommended products can be found at: www.est.org.uk/recommended

Want more information on energy saving?
If you would like further free, impartial expert advice on energy saving, why not contact your local Energy Saving Trust Advice Centre on 0800 512 012, or visit www.energysavingtrust.org.uk

The Energy Saving Trust experts:

* are the only advice service providing free, impartial information on home and community energy efficiency because of its status as an independent, not for profit organisation
* have a good knowledge of your area and understand the local housing stock; for example they can help you find out whether or not your house has cavity walls
* can advise you on any grants and offers that may be available to help towards installation costs
* know your local market and so can recommend suitably-qualified tradespeople
* have been operating since 1992.

Become a Green Ambassador for the Energy Saving Trust

Being a Green Ambassador for the Energy Saving Trust allows you to spread the good word of your hard work. Green Ambassadors are ordinary people, leading ordinary lives in ordinary houses. They are extraordinary because of their passion for saving energy! For further information contact greenambassador@est.org.uk
Please note: Green Ambassadors for the Energy Saving Trust appear as real life case studies in the media, so participants need to be prepared for a bit of the limelight.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

A Berkshire-wide initiative that aims to promote walking and cycling to school will be launched in the Windsor and Maidenhead Royal Borough during a conference at the Town Hall, Maidenhead, on Wednesday October 17.

The Berkshire School Travel Excellence Programme (STEP) is an accreditation and awards scheme for School Travel Plans, which are designed to reduce the use of cars and encourage more sustainable methods of travelling to school. STEP is aimed at both state and independent schools and rewards participating schools that have worked hard to devise School Travel Plans and encourages others to develop theirs.

All six Berkshire local authorities, including the Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough, are working together on the programme. At the conference there will be an introduction to the STEP scheme and talks on School Travel Plans, walking buses, Walk to School and links between the Healthy Schools programme and School Travel Plans.

Cllr Colin Rayner, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead highways, transport and environment, said: “Cutting the number of cars on Berkshire’s roads will reduce congestion and air pollution and help to promote a sustainable future. It will also benefit the children who walk or cycle by improving their fitness and health.

“A number of schools in the Royal Borough have successfully developed travel plans, and improvements such as cycle racks and parents’ shelters are making it easier for children to walk or cycle to school.

“These schools are doing a great job and I would like to encourage any school that hasn’t started its travel plan to contact the borough.”

STEP can advise schools on how to develop a plan that meets the requirements for a government grant for any necessary infrastructure improvements. Any school requiring further information can call Gordon Oliver, Windsor and Maidenhead principal transport policy officer, on 01628 796097.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

The Windsor and Maidenhead Royal Borough has welcomed the decision by the Environment Agency (EA) to turn down a proposal that could have doubled waste recycling operations at a site in Wraysbury.

The EA’s decision to refuse the application by Charles Morris (Fertilisers) of Hythe End Farm, Wraysbury, to modify its waste management licence follows robust objections from the Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough on behalf of local residents, who complained about noise, dust and vibration and nuisance from plant and machinery operating around the site. HEAT (Hythe End Action Team) also responded on these issues on behalf of residents.

Cllr Derek Wilson, Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough lead member for planning, said: “We are absolutely delighted that the Environment Agency has supported us in our objections to this application.

“The council and local ward councillors have worked long and hard with local residents in recent years to resolve a number of issues relating to operations at this site.

“We felt strongly that this proposal would have been hugely inappropriate, not only in terms of the proposed scale of the operation but more importantly for the impact on the quality of life of local residents.

“This is very positive news for the residents of Hythe End – and shows what can be achieved when the council responds to residents’ concerns and works together with them to resolve individual issues.”

The recent application by Charles Morris to modify its waste management licence sought to:
· double the amount of waste that could be received at the site every year from 125,000 to 250,000 tonnes
· introduce a six-fold increase in the total amount of waste that could be stored on the site from 160 to 1,000 tonnes

In a letter to the EA, the Windsor and Maidenhead Royal Borough objected to the application on the following grounds:
· adverse environmental impacts – residents had complained of noise, dust and vibration and an increase in the amount of traffic taking waste material to and from the site
· adverse impacts on the highway infrastructure – the council considered the local highway network unsuitable for the extra HGV traffic which would be generated by the licence extension
· highway safety – the extra traffic would mean the need for significant safety improvements to address the risk of further accidents in an area with an already poor accident record
· planning implications – the doubling of operations would result in the need for more development on the site which could conflict with existing planning policy
· development pressures – the council had concerns about the “sheer scale” of the proposed increase in activity, the subsequent long-term plans for the site and the resulting adverse environmental impacts.

Charles Collins, HEAT chairman, said: “HEAT raised objections through letters and petitions signed by local residents relating to traffic and flooding safety and the further destruction of the environment which over recent years has seen the original farm turned into an eyesore and health risk to residents.

“We are delighted that the Environment Agency listened to the voice of residents and rejected the application on September 29 ‘for the purpose of preventing serious detriment to the amenity of the locality’.”

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Fun and learning will go hand in hand at Clewer Youth and Community Centre, Windsor, on Saturday October 20 at an activities morning organised for all the family to mark national Family Learning Week.

The event has been organised by the Windsor and Maidenhead Royal Borough’s family learning team. Highlights will be visits from Basil the Shetland pony and his rabbit, goat and guinea pig friends and ’bug man’ Matt Smith who will bring along giant beetles, giant millipedes, praying mantises and many other creepy crawlies.

There will also be arts and crafts activities – including plate painting and mask making and the chance to learn new computer skills and make personalised room door labels. A storyteller will be relating magical tales.

Representatives of the Royal Borough’s Children’s Information Service will have display stands about the many services available to families and parents and professionals will be offering health, fitness and nutrition advice to families.

Cllr Dorothy Kemp, the Deputy Mayor, will be attending the event.

Cllr Eileen Quick, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead children’s services, said: “This activity morning is going to be a great opportunity for families to learn and play together. All the community is invited and we are hoping as many people as possible are going to take part in this enjoyable event where they can also get help and advice from professionals.”

The event is free and booking is not required.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Maidenhead Town Partnership has welcomed the news that ever-popular artist and entertainer Rolf Harris will be switching on the town’s Christmas lights this year.

Maidenhead’s festive celebrations start on Friday November 23 at the Boy and the Boat statue, High Street. Rolf will start the countdown to the switch-on of the new £120,000 illuminations at 6pm. Also sharing the spotlight will be a local school who will be on stage at the start of the evening from 5.30pm. Following the lights switch-on, there will be a performance by headline act The Velvet Hearts, Europe’s most subscribed band on YouTube.

Cllr David Burbage, town partnership chairman, said: “We are absolutely delighted that Rolf Harris will be switching on the 2007 Christmas lights. It is fitting to have a huge household name for this big event in the town’s calendar and we thank him for setting aside the time to give our festivities such a great start.”

Jane Wright, vice-chairman of the partnership and member of Maidenhead Christmas Lights Committee, said: “We are delighted that Maidenhead will enjoy new Christmas lights this year and look forward to joining Rolf Harris when he launches the Christmas season on Friday November 23.”

The new state-of-the-art LED lights, which use less power and will last longer than their predecessors, replace all those used throughout the town in recent years. In addition, new lights have been added along Market Street to link to Sainsbury’s.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

The Windsor and Maidenhead Royal Borough has welcomed First Great Western’s new rail timetable which promises significant service improvements, particularly at peak times.

The timetable changes – which begin on December 9 – follow an intensive local Windsor and Maidenhead campaign against the reduction in services introduced last year. The new timetable will mean nearly a third more seats on peak commuter trains and more fast rush hour services serving local stations including Maidenhead and Slough.

The improvements to the timetable - to be implemented as a result of customer feedback – include:
· more fast morning peak trains from Maidenhead to Paddington, with extra stops at Taplow and Burnham – and more from Paddington in the evening rush-hour
· more fast morning and evening trains from Slough at peak times – with better connections at Slough for commuters from Windsor
· more and bigger high speed trains with new interiors and more reliable environmentally-efficient engines. These will be phased in between December and next May.

Cllr Colin Rayner, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead highways, transport and environment, said: “I am pleased that First Great Western seem to have listened to the deep concerns of train users and councillors of the Royal Borough in drawing up their new timetable.

“This appears to be a positive development which will hopefully make a significant difference to the travelling experience of the many Royal Borough residents who are regular commuters.

“We look forward to continuing to talk with First Great Western to make sure that they are fully aware of the needs of their passengers. We need more fast trains leaving from Maidenhead at all times of the day.”

Cllr Simon Dudley, chairman of Maidenhead Town Forum and a regular commuter, said: “I often use the Maidenhead to Paddington line myself and welcome the announcement of these improvements from First Great Western.

“The council’s tough stance earlier this year on behalf of frustrated commuters – which included strong support from our local MPs – has undoubtedly helped to bring about these significant changes to the new timetable.

“We must now ensure that First Great Western continue to demonstrate commitment to the needs of the busy commuter towns in our borough and take local views into account when planning future timetables.”

Other changes include:
· improved connections for the other local branch lines from Marlow and Henley, including alteration of train times at Henley to reflect customer feedback
· extra stops on the Gatwick line services from Reading.

The newly-announced timetable is part of FGW’s latest round of improvements which concentrate on services in the Thames Valley and the Bristol area, as well as trains serving South Wales, Devon and Cornwall.

Further regional improvements are planned for May 2008.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Maidenhead: 21 October - 27 October 2007
Altwood Road
Maidenhead
SL6 4PF
01628 788997

21st October in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 11:45 am
Lunchtime Concert: Julian Jacobson (piano)
* 3:00 pm
Opening Night (15)
* 7:30 pm
Opening Night (15)
* Workshops and other events
* 10:00 am
Cookham Arts Club - Modern Exhibition 2007

22nd October in Maidenhead

No events planned

23rd October in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 11:00 am
Rags to Witches
* 3:00 pm
Rags to Witches
* 8:00 pm
Lady Chatterley (18)

24th October in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 11:00 am
The Elves and the Shoemaker
* 2:30 pm
Lady Chatterley (18)
* 3:00 pm
The Elves and the Shoemaker
* 8:00 pm
Lady Chatterley (18)
* Workshops and other events
* 2:00 pm
Perspectives: Special trees of the Chilterns

25th October in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 11:00 am
The Elves and the Shoemaker
* 3:00 pm
The Elves and the Shoemaker
* 7:30 pm
Endellion String Quartet
* Workshops and other events
* 2:00 pm
Perspectives: Special trees of the Chilterns
* 2:00 pm
Writing a Novel for Publication

26th October in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 8:00 pm
Bollywood Night
* Workshops and other events
* 2:00 pm
Perspectives: Special trees of the Chilterns
* 7:15 pm
Life Drawing

27th October in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 3:00 pm
La Vie En Rose (La Môme) (12A)
* 8:00 pm
La Vie En Rose (La Môme) (12A)
* Workshops and other events
* 10:00 am
Perspectives: Special trees of the Chilterns

Maidenhead Town Partnership has welcomed a clampdown on illegal parking, which has proved to be ‘a huge success’ since new policing was introduced in July.

Figures supplied by Thames Valley Police show that four times more parking tickets were issued in July and August compared to June, the month before two police community support officers (PCSOs) were appointed specifically to patrol Maidenhead town centre as part of the Neighbourhood Policing Initiative.

In June, 74 tickets were issued by the PCSOs to drivers parking on double yellow lines or otherwise parking irresponsibly; in July the numbers rose to 330 and in August 274.

The PCSOs were appointed following lobbying by Maidenhead Town Partnership, the Royal Borough and Maidenhead and District Chamber of Commerce to solve the problem of increased illegal parking. A strain on resources had previously led to the police cutting back on the number of regular officers patrolling the town centre.

Parking regulations in Maidenhead will continue to be administered by PCSOs until the Royal Borough takes over enforcement of on-street parking in January 2008.

Cllr David Burbage, chairman of the Maidenhead Town Partnership, said: “This initiative has been a huge success. Residents, workers and visitors to Maidenhead town centre had to endure the inconvenience and irritation of selfish and inconsiderate drivers parking illegally for far too long and we are delighted that this unacceptable situation is being addressed.

“We welcome the Royal Borough’s plan to take over parking enforcement early next year but in the meantime the PCSOs are doing a great job of bringing the parking situation back under control through encouragement and, where necessary, enforcement.

“Already businesses and residents have remarked on the increased police presence in the town and the easier access to shops for pedestrians.”

Inspector Mark Millward of the Thames Valley Police said: “Our PCSOs are continuing to issue an average of 300 parking tickets a month in Maidenhead town centre. Although parking is their top priority at the moment, this is only one of the many problems they are able to deal with. I would encourage members of the public and businesses to approach the PCSOs when they see them on patrol and raise any other concerns they may have, so that these can be resolved by the town centre neighbourhood policing team.

“On the subject of parking, I would like to remind all motorists, including those entitled to park in the town centre, to show consideration to other road users at all times.”

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

The Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough has turned up the heat on energy saving by joining a national drive to help tackle climate change – with the aim of changing its carbon footprint into a fingerprint!

In partnership with the Carbon Trust – the government-funded organisation that helps businesses cut carbon emissions – Windsor and Maidenhead council is one of over 140 local authorities to launch its own carbon management programme to reduce the amount of energy it uses, cut fuel bills – and save council taxpayers’ money.

Cllr Paul Etherington, chairman of Windsor and Maidenhead council’s sustainability panel, said: “Earlier this year the Royal Borough signed the Nottingham Declaration, which is a firm pledge to tackle climate change. Now we have the new carbon management programme as a council priority, demonstrating our determination to take up the challenge of reducing carbon emissions and putting our promises into action.

“Our aim is to improve energy efficiency associated with our buildings, vehicle fleets, street-lighting and waste collections. Already, a wide range of carbon reduction measures are under way but we aim to achieve even more and we have a team from across the organisation working to identify opportunities in every service. We also hope every member of staff will get involved by coming forward with good ideas.”

Some of the things Windsor and Maidenhead council is already doing to reduce carbon emissions:

* Ground source heat pump installation at Hurley Lock Canoe Club to provide ‘greener’ heating and hot water
* Low energy light bulb replacement programme in leisure centres
* School boiler management systems for effective control of heating
* Lighting improvements and more efficient heaters at Maidenhead Library
* More efficient and cost-effective CHP (combined heat and power) at Windsor and Maidenhead leisure centres
* Movement-activated lighting in many council offices – lights switch off automatically when no-one’s around.

The Carbon Trust’s Local Authority Carbon Management (LACM) programme provides councils with practical advice on cutting their carbon footprint and reducing energy costs. The Royal Borough is one of 45 local authorities joining phase five of the programme. In the first four phases local councils identified 500,000 tonnes of CO2 and chalked up annual savings of more than £33 million.

Richard Rugg, public sector programme manager at the Carbon Trust, said: “Climate change is the biggest environmental threat currently faced by the UK. The reduction of carbon emissions, the main cause of climate change, should now be a key priority for all organisations, including local authorities. Improving energy efficiency and therefore reducing energy bills is crucial if local authorities are to make best use of taxpayers’ money.

“Given the success of the first four phases of our local authority programme, we’re hugely excited by the prospect of working with 45 more local authorities, including the Royal Borough, to establish good carbon management practice.

“The carbon and energy savings made so far as a result of the programme have been great, and we’re looking forward to building on these achievements with the new participants.”

While the Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough embarks on its carbon management programme, here are some things local residents can do to reduce their carbon footprint at home:

* Compost kitchen and garden waste rather than sending it to landfill.
* Don't overfill kettles or pans and put lids on pans when cooking.
* Don't put warm or hot food in the fridge or freezer.
* Keep cooling fins at the back of fridges and freezers clean and well ventilated.
* Dry washing outside when possible instead of using a tumble drier and use an extra spin cycle to help dry washing before using the tumble drier.
* Make sure there is a full load before using dishwashers and washing machines.
* Use a microwave instead of a conventional oven – they use 70%-90% less electricity.
* Wash clothes at 30 degrees where possible.
* Improve insulation.
* Turn your heating down 1 degree and save up to 10% on the annual heating bill.
* Don’t heat rooms that are not in use.
* Wear appropriate clothing to suit the season rather than turning up the heat or switching on the air conditioning.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

With just over two months to go until the Windsor and Maidenhead council takes control of parking enforcement, it’s all systems go for the launch on Monday January 14 2008.

The application for the Windsor and Maidenhead Royal Borough to become a Special Parking Area (SPA) was submitted to the Department for Transport (DfT) in September and plans are well advanced for a public awareness campaign to start at the end of November under the slogan Safer, fairer parking for all.

Cllr Colin Rayner, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead highways, transport and environment, said the council had made excellent progress through ‘the maze of red tape’ and complex preparation needed to take over parking enforcement from the police.

He said: “Local people and visitors will notice a difference from day one. Our high profile team of parking attendants will be on the streets and in town centres, where the thoughtless selfish parking of some freeloaders has been causing serious issues for pedestrians and businesses and showing utter contempt for the law.

“We submitted our SPA application in good time and, depending on the DfT response, we are on course for a January 14 2008 launch.”

Cllr Rayner added that by taking control of parking enforcement the council would enable police to focus their attention on fighting crime and disorder. He said: “We look forward to seeing a reduction in crime figures at the end of 2008.”

The SPA will mean that the Windsor and Maidenhead council will take over responsibility for yellow lines and limited waiting, as well as its own residents’ permit areas – bringing more consistent and fairer enforcement across the borough. Existing parking and waiting restrictions will remain the same – the only change being that the council will be in charge of enforcement instead of the police.

The scheme will aim to:

* encourage sensible and safe parking for the benefit of everyone
* reduce the risk of accidents caused by dangerous parking
* increase parking turnover and make better use of the available spaces
* reduce pollution by cutting queuing times for parking places
* end confusion about who is responsible for parking enforcement – the council or the police?

Under the current system, money collected in parking fines goes to central government. However, the SPA will mean that all income from penalty charge notices (PCNs) will stay with the council to fund the scheme and enable it to be self-financing. Any left over funds must, by law, be spent on improvements to parking, transport and the environment locally.

Windsor and Maidenhead Cllr Rayner underlined that the new system would not affect anyone who parked legally, sensibly and safely – but those breaking the law would be issued with a penalty charge notice (PCN) for £60 (discounted to £30 if paid within 14 days).

He added: “This is the biggest change in parking regulation and enforcement since the introduction of parking meters. We want residents and visitors to be aware of the changes so they don’t get a PCN.

“Our parking attendants will not get bonuses or incentives for issuing a certain number of tickets. Their job will be to enforce parking regulations openly, fairly and consistently for all. They will also act as council ambassadors, providing advice and assistance to the community by reporting problems such as litter, graffiti and flytipping. This means the council will be better able to deal with these problems and pursue the offenders.”

Information about the Special Parking Area is available by:

* visiting the Royal Borough’s website www.rbwm.gov.uk
* writing to The Parking Team, Town Hall, St Ives Road, Maidenhead SL6 1RF
* calling 01628 683880
* emailing parking@rbwm.gov.uk

From January 14 maps will be available on the Royal Borough’s website so drivers can check where parking restrictions are in force on local streets and roads.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

The Windsor and Maidenhead Royal Borough has welcomed Prime Minister Gordon Brown’s announcement that Crossrail is to go ahead – but had underlined that the £16 billion project needs careful monitoring to ensure it works for the benefit of local residents.

Cllr Derek Wilson, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead planning and housing, said the council had already achieved important concessions on behalf of local people and would continue to work with Crossrail to protect Maidenhead’s interests.

He said: “Crossrail has the potential for being a major benefit to the Royal Borough in general and Maidenhead in particular and we welcome the government’s commitment to the scheme. However, the council needs to be closely involved in its development to gauge the implications for our community and the environment and get the best outcomes for residents and transport users.

“We must also not lose sight of Crossrail’s potential to bring about even more pressure for development in our borough, with all the attendant issues associated with infrastructure and, of course, our already threatened Green Belt.

“We are right at the beginning of a long and very complex process and it is the council’s intention to be involved at every stage, with the best interests of our community at the forefront of everything we do.”

Last year the Windsor and Maidenhead Royal Borough mounted a successful petition to a parliamentary select committee against locally-controversial elements of Crossrail’s construction plans, gaining protection for Guards Club Park and Island and additional car parking at Maidenhead station.

Cllr Wilson added: “This success shows what can be achieved by the council, in partnership with others in the community, taking a strong stand in defence of our environment and the services needed by local people.”

The government’s backing for Crossrail, linking Maidenhead to Essex through London, means construction is likely to start in 2010 and train services running in 10 years. The government will provide a third of the money with the rest made up of borrowing against future fares and a levy on London business rates.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Drivers using the Royal Borough’s multi-storey car park at Nicholsons Shopping Centre, Maidenhead, will soon begin to notice changes for the better.

The town centre car park is undergoing a number of improvements, designed to make it brighter, safer, ‘greener’ and easier to use – and the works are scheduled to finish in time for Christmas shopping.

Part of the Windsor and Maidenhead borough-wide car park improvement programme, the scheme has already seen the installation of modern electrical equipment needed to control energy use, to help reduce the council’s carbon footprint.

Over the next few weeks parking bay lines will be painted, with many of the smaller bays widened to make them more easily accessible. White paintwork will also be used to help make the car park brighter and more welcoming.

The safety of everyone using the car park is a high priority and one of the most significant improvements will be the installation of CCTV cameras throughout, which will record and be monitored 24 hours a day. The car park has already achieved the Park Mark – the Thames Valley Police Secured Car Park award – and the addition of CCTV will further enhance safety and security for all users.

Another major change will be new pay and display machines that will be simpler to use, more efficient and require much less maintenance than the current, out-of-date ‘pay on foot’ system. They will also mean:

· reduced queuing and better traffic flow inside the car park
· reduced congestion at the entrance on Broadway and
· a dramatic improvement in air quality in this part of the town.

Cash and credit card payment and change machines will be conveniently located on all main levels.

Cllr Colin Rayner, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead highways, transport and environment, said the Nicholsons car park improvements would create a much better and safer environment to attract more town centre shoppers.

He said: “Experience at other local car parks has shown us that pay and display machines are both popular with drivers and more cost-effective for the council – and because they need much less looking after, our parking officers will be freed up to carry out more car park patrols. Along with the 24-hour CCTV cameras, this will bring about greater safety and security for all. It is also much more environmentally friendly to shop close to home and support local businesses.”

Cllr David Burbage, lead member for Maidenhead and chairman of Maidenhead Town Partnership, welcomed the improvements. He said: “Nicholsons is one of Maidenhead’s most popular car parks and I am confident that both users and local traders will appreciate the changes, especially as they will be ready in time for the busy Christmas shopping period and the January sales.”

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Windsor MP Adam Afriyie will officially open the popular Windsor Contemporary Art Fair in November – and renowned Harry Potter illustrator Cliff Wright will hold workshops throughout the weekend of the fair from Friday November 9 to Sunday November 11.

It’s third time around for the prestigious art event – and it’s bigger and better than ever, with a new and larger venue, more exhibitors and an extra day reflecting the fair’s growing popularity.

This year’s fair – sponsored by Windsor and Eton Town Partnership - boasts:

· a new “home” at Windsor Racecourse following a move from its original venue of Windsor’s Christopher Wren Hotel
· a record number of more than 50 exhibitors from all over the country presenting a range of artwork from sculpture, fine art, glasswork, printing and photography
· an extra day in response to increased interest in the event.

Local artists will rub shoulders with artists from all over the country at the three-day event, which is once again raising funds for The Prince’s Trust with a sale of miniature canvases. The event also provides a showcase for many artists who have benefited from the work of the Trust.

During the weekend there will be wine-tasting sessions, “Harry Potter” workshops run by illustrator Cliff Wright and a café for visitors.

Cllr Colin Rayner, chairman of the Windsor and Eton Town Partnership, said: “We are delighted to be able to host such a prestigious event here in the Royal Borough for the third year running. We are pleased that our local MP can open the fair and I hope as many people as possible will make time to support all the artists.

“There really will be something for everyone, from serious art lovers and collectors to those with a new-found interest in art.”
The fair will be held at Royal Windsor racecourse, Maidenhead Road, Windsor, from Friday November 9 to Sunday November 11 from 10am to 5pm each day. Tickets (including a catalogue) are £5 on the door, with £4 concessions – under-12s go free).

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

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead