Maidenhead & Windsor

Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough residents have another opportunity to meet their local elected representatives at a town centre surgery session in Windsor on Saturday December 8.

The doors will be open between 10am and 12noon in the council’s mobile facility outside the Post Office in Peascod Street, Windsor.

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 Windsor surgery will be held in March 2008.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

It’s ‘green for go’ as Windsor and Maidenhead becomes one of the first local authorities in the country to sign up to the eco-friendly challenge on its bus routes around the borough.

Windsor and Maidenhead Passengers will soon be travelling on buses powered by pure plant oil after operator Courtney Coaches headed down the sustainability route and converted its fleet of buses and coaches to work on oils such as rape and soya.

The company has also just ordered 10 new vehicles from bus and coach group Optare which, in partnership with Oxfordshire-based biofuel company Regenatec, is converting them to biofuel. Delivery of the vehicles is scheduled before Christmas. The new buses are all low-floor with CCTV and air conditioning and fully accessible for wheelchair users.

Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough transport officers and Courtney Coaches staff will be teaming up to showcase one of the new green fleet on Saturday December 1 at the Town Hall, Maidenhead, from 10am to 2pm and will be available to answer questions and help promote the borough’s sustainability message. They will be joined during the morning by Maidenhead MP Theresa May and representatives from Regenatec and Optare.

The event will also be an opportunity to listen to the views of bus users – and potential bus users – to get their views about existing services and areas for improvement in the future.

Cllr Colin Rayner, lead member for transport and the environment, said: “We are committed to spreading the sustainability message to all our residents and creating greater awareness of the threat of global warming.

“We are delighted to be able to work with Courtney Coaches to provide bus passengers with a truly environmentally-friendly alternative to the car – and we hope that these measures will encourage more people to use the excellent bus services we operate around the borough. You know it makes sense to catch the bus into town!”

Bill Courtney, managing director of Courtney Coaches, said: “By operating the lowest low-emission vehicles we are demonstrating the importance of focussing on local air quality – and by fuelling our vehicles on sustainably-sourced plant oil we are substantially mitigating the global warming impact of our vehicles.”

Courtney Coaches operates all of the borough’s subsidised bus routes in and around Maidenhead:
· Route 9 from Cox Green via Maidenhead town centre to Boulters Lock
· Route 7a and 7b from Woodlands Park via Maidenhead town centre to Halifax Road
· Route 6 from Cranbrook Drive via Maidenhead town centre to Windsor
· Route 7S (Sundays and bank holidays only) from Bracknell via Woodlands Park and Maidenhead town centre to Cookham)
· Route 239 (Hurley Link) and the M1 dial-a-ride service between Henley, Hurley and Maidenhead.

For further information about the new fleet – and bus services in the Royal Borough in general – contact Melina Campobello, transport officer, on 01628 796537.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Children and young people in the Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough continue to benefit from services that have now been given the Ofsted seal of approval.

The 2007 annual performance assessment (APA), published this week, gives the Windsor and Maidenhead council an overall Grade 3 (good) rating, with even more improvements for children and young people during the past year. In particular, it commends the outcomes for achieving economic wellbeing and the ‘significant development’ in the range and breadth of vocational provisions for 14-16-year-olds.

Individual Grade 3 ratings were awarded for the specific outcome categories of: staying safe, enjoying and achieving, making a positive contribution, achieving economic wellbeing and capacity to improve. There was a Grade 2 rating in the being healthy category.

The APA says that the Windsor and Maidenhead council responded positively to the recommendations contained in last year’s joint area review, which looked at how children benefit from services provided by the council individually and in conjunction with its partner organisations.

It also highlights how the creation of the new learning and care directorate in 2006 was a catalyst for driving forward improvements. The directorate provides increasingly strong and effective leadership and consistency in its drive to provide high quality services to improve the lives of children, particularly the most vulnerable.

A letter from Juliet Winstanley, divisional manager of the local inspection team, said: “Overall the council has demonstrated good progress in meeting the joint area review recommendations and has shown a good capacity to maintain and improve further its services for children and young people.”

Cllr Eileen Quick, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead children’s services, said she was delighted by the APA result and paid tribute to everyone concerned – including children and young people themselves – for their contribution to this achievement.

She said: “One of the most exciting parts of our continuing improvement is the growing involvement of young people in helping the council plan the services they use. They are actively encouraged to participate in making the decisions that help shape local services and they played a valuable part helping us identify our priorities for the Children and Young People’s Plan. Indeed, the APA highlighted how their views brought about real changes in services and we look forward to even higher levels of participation in the future.

“It is only by listening to young people themselves that we can continue to make services relevant to their needs as they grow and develop towards adulthood.”

The APA makes a number of recommendations to support continuing service improvement and Jim Gould, corporate director of Windsor and Maidenhead learning and care, explained that work was already under way to take these forward.

He said: “We are very pleased that inspectors have recognised the good outcomes being achieved. However, we appreciate there is always more that can be done and I know that everyone in my directorate remains totally committed to working with our schools and other partners in the best interests of children and young people here in the Royal Borough.”

The overall grade for children’s services feeds into the Audit Commission’s comprehensive performance assessment of the council to be published next month.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Parents and carers, children and young people, children’s services professionals and the wider community are invited to have their say on a plan which shows the Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough’s priorities in the provision of services for children and young people locally.

The Windsor and Maidenhead Children and Young People Plan (CYPP) sets out the most important priorities for Children’s Services for the council and its partners and aims to improve the lives of children and young people so that they are healthy, stay safe, enjoy and achieve, make a positive contribution and achieve economic wellbeing, in accordance with Government guidelines. The council published its first CYPP in 2006. Work has now begun on developing the new CYPP for 2008-2011 and draft priorities have been drawn up for consultation.

Cllr Eileen Quick, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead children’s services, said: “This is a wonderful opportunity to build on the excellent work already carried out by children’s services – and everyone in the community with a vested interested is invited to have their say.”

Young people and children also had the chance to have their say about the services which affect them at a conference held on Tuesday (November 20). The conference allowed students from 14 secondary and middle schools in the borough to speak out about the issues which affect them and their peers. The findings of this conference will be used to form the final Children and Young People Plan 2008-11.

Further details about the consultation are at www.rbwm.gov.uk/web/consultation_current.htm Comments can be submitted online, emailed to cypp.consultation@rbwm.gov.uk or sent to CYPP Consultation, Children’s Commissioning, First Floor, Brocket, 15 Boyn Hill Avenue, Maidenhead SL6 4EY by Monday December 17. All comments will be taking into consideration before the priorities are finalised early next year. The final Children and Young People Plan will be published by April 2008.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

The Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough is gearing up for a change in the law that will mean a wider range of vehicle operators will need to be licensed from January 2008.

The new rules will close a loophole in current legislation, introducing the need for licenses for chauffeur-driven car and limousine operators, airport travel firms, novelty vehicles, transport to school, executive hire and a variety of other operators,

Currently Windsor and Maidenhead chauffeur operators and others are not regulated in any way, whereas taxi and minicab drivers must pass a variety of tests before they are permitted to go on the road.

Cllr Jesse Grey, chairman of the Windsor and Maidenhead licensing panel with responsibility for taxi and private hire licensing, said: "I am pleased that the government has moved to cover this loophole. Customers who use chauffeur services and similar operations should have the same safeguards as those who use ordinary taxis."

In future, chauffeurs and other operators who hire themselves out to the public will have to be properly licensed and will have criminal record checks to ensure it is appropriate for them to be dealing with the public. Similarly, vehicles will have to comply with the Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough's strict standards to ensure safety, and have the correct level of insurance needed for carrying passengers.”

The council’s licensing team is expecting about 100 new applications and is urging chauffeurs to contact them sooner rather than later to ensure their business can continue legally when the new regulations come into force.

Further information about the new provisions is available from the council's licensing team on 01628 683840.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Children from two Maidenhead primary schools will be taking time out from the classroom at lunchtime on Tuesday November 27 – to go to the park.

But it's all in a good cause as they will be taking advice from the Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough countryside rangers on tree planting and helping to create a new woodland at Ockwells Park.

The youngsters from Lowbrook and Wessex primary schools will be heading to Ockwells Park to plant trees at the nature reserve. They will be shown how to plant the trees and also be told about the importance and value they hold now and for the future.

The event is being held during National Tree Week* and follows a community day on Saturday (November 24) when 1,500 saplings will be planted at the park by members of the public to create 7 Oaks Wood.

As well as being an attractive place to visit, the new wood will contribute to a number of important elements of the Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough's sustainability agenda. These include:
· improving the borough's biodiversity by increasing the wildlife value of the area for animals and insects as the wood continues to change and develop over years to come
· contributing towards local air quality (trees have been proven to do this) and 'buying' a little time in the fight against climate change.

Cllr Jesse Grey, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead community safety, leisure and culture, said: “This planting event is a great opportunity for children to understand the importance of the role they play in the environment and learn about how they affect its future.

“Lowbrook Primary School is registered with the National Eco-School Programme and Wessex Primary has already achieved the Bronze Award. So this project is helping pupils see what they have learnt for this initiative put into action. For both schools, such an active community involvement is an integral aspect of what it means to be a more sustainable school, an essential part of any sustainable community.”

For more information about the event, call the countryside rangers on 01628 777440.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Thousands of Windsor and Maidenhead Royal Borough residents who care for sick or disabled relatives at home may be missing out on support that could help them juggle work and care responsibilities or simply make life easier.

To enable carers to find out what help they could qualify for and how to claim it the Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough, in conjunction with Berkshire East Primary Care Trust, The Princess Royal Trust and other local groups, is holding drop-in sessions and setting up information stands at a number of venues across the borough from Monday December 3 to Friday December 7 to celebrate Carers’ Rights Day (December 7)

The local groups will be among 800 from across the UK taking part in the national awareness day organised by Carers UK aimed at informing carers of the rights, benefits and services available and any important recent changes to these.

Cllr John Story, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead adult services, said: “It is estimated that there are more than 11,000 carers in the Royal Borough, more than 300 of them under 18 years old. Many of these carers are still unknown to the statutory, health and voluntary sector services and are not receiving any support in their caring role. Anyone who is a carer should come forward and receive the help that could make a big difference to their lives.”

John Shaw, chief executive of The Princess Royal Trust Carers Service said: “Anyone who looks after a sick or disabled person on an unpaid basis is a carer and may be able to get help. Carers have recently won new rights under the Work and Families Act 2006, where they can request flexible working from their employer. This could make the difference between staying in work or not.

“Research tells us that carers’ own health is twice as likely to suffer as a result of the stresses of caring and it is vital they know their rights to ensure they get the support they need.”

Carolyn Finlay, assistant director of localities at Berkshire East Primary Care Trust said: "It is essential that carers get all the help and support they need to stay in good health. These events will help carers find out what is out there for them. The NHS and other organisations are working hard to ensure carers can continue supporting the people they care for so they can stay in their own homes.”

Information stands will be on display from Monday December 3 to Friday December 7 at:
· Town Hall, St Ives Road, Maidenhead
· York House, Windsor
· St Marks Hospital, Maidenhead
· King Edward VII Hospital, Windsor
· Upton Hospital, Slough
· Ascot Library

In addition, members of the Windsor and Maidenhead welfare benefits advice team will be available to provide information on Friday December 7 at Ascot Library between 10am and 12noon, at the Town Hall, Maidenhead, between 10.30am and 12.30pm, and at York House between 2 and 4pm.

Carers UK has produced an information booklet, Looking after someone? A guide to carers’ rights and benefits, which can be ordered from December 7 by calling 0808 808 7777, visiting http://www.carersuk.org/ or writing to Carers’ Rights Day, Carers UK, 20-25, Glasshouse Yard, London EC1A 4JT.

Information can also be obtained through the borough’s access team on 01628 683744, The Princess Royal Trust Carers Services on 01628 777217 or Berkshire East PCT on 01753 635615 or at http://www.pals.berkseast@berkshire.nhs.uk/

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Christmas cheer is coming thick and fast to Windsor and Eton now the festive lights have officially been switched on. And the fun just continues!

Next week – on Saturday December 1 – Father Christmas will be taking time out from his busy schedule and flying in from Lapland with his new-found furry friends, a team of huskies. The huskies came to Father Christmas’ rescue after the foot and mouth outbreak in October meant the town’s traditional reindeer parade had to be cancelled.

Led by Egham Marching Band, Father Christmas and the huskies will leave Windsor Castle
at 2pm and drive in procession from St Albans Street into High Street and Peascod Street before stopping outside the Post Office.

Visitors will then have the opportunity to meet and pet the huskies and can have their photograph taken with Father Christmas – which they will be able to collect in a commemorative card within minutes.

The festivities will continue inside King Edward Court Shopping Centre where visitors will be able to ‘hug a husky’ and have their photograph taken with the puppies, as well as having their own husky sleigh ride. All guests who have their picture taken on the day will receive a special goody bag courtesy of Waitrose and other shops in the centre.

Cllr Jesse Grey, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead leisure and culture, said: “This promises to be a fantastic afternoon which will be a perfect start to December and the run-up to Christmas.

“Younger members of the family are sure to be enchanted by the huskies and the chance to meet Father Christmas and older members will enjoy the spectacle, not to mention sing along to the impressive Egham Marching Band.”

The event is being organised by King Edward Court in association with Windsor and Eton Town Partnership, with sponsorship from Waitrose.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Maidenhead: 2 December - 8 December 2007
Altwood Road
Maidenhead
SL6 4PF
01628 788997

2nd December in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 11:45 am
Lunchtime Concert: Joanna Macgregor (piano) and Kuljit Bhamra (tablas and percussion)
* 2:30 pm
Masterclass with Joanna MacGregor
* 7:30 pm
Yella (12A)
* Workshops and other events
* 10:00 am
John Rogers – The Joy of Innovation and Variety in Painting
* 11:00 am
Jewellery Showcase
* 1:30 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group D
* 4:00 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group E

3rd December in Maidenhead

No events planned

4th December in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 8:00 pm
Two Days in Paris (15)
* Workshops and other events
* 5:45 pm
Norden Exposure Youth Dance
* 6:00 pm
Taste of Christmas
* 7:00 pm
Norden Exposure Academy

5th December in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 10:30 am
Monster Hits
* 1:00 pm
Monster Hits
* 8:00 pm
Two Days in Paris (15)
* Workshops and other events
* 2:00 pm
Alice Pennefather - Eyes of Others
* 4:15 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group A
* 5:30 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group B
* 6:45 pm
Norden Lights Academy

6th December in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 10:30 am
Monster Hits
* 1:00 pm
Monster Hits
* 8:00 pm
Razzle Dazzle (PG)
* Workshops and other events
* 2:00 pm
Writing a Novel for Publication
* 2:00 pm
Alice Pennefather - Eyes of Others
* 5:00 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group C
* 6:00 pm
Tabla Drumming
* 6:15 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group F

7th December in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 10:30 am
Monster Hits
* 1:00 pm
Monster Hits
* Workshops and other events
* 2:00 pm
Alice Pennefather - Eyes of Others

8th December in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 11:00 am
Monster Hits
* 2:00 pm
Monster Hits
* 7:30 pm
Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde
* Workshops and other events
* 10:00 am
International Film History: Development, Theory and Analysis
* 10:00 am
Alice Pennefather - Eyes of Others
* 10:30 am
Kathak Dance - Intermediate
* 11:30 am
Kathak Dance

Young people aged 12 to 18 have this week been speaking about the issues affecting them and their peers in the Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough.

Students from the 14 Windsor and Maidenhead secondary and middle schools in the Royal Borough were invited to take part in the SpeakEasy 2007 conference held at the Town Hall on Tuesday November 20 – a one-day event which aimed to find out what can be done to support younger residents.

The Windsor and Maidenhead conference – held during anti-bullying week – followed on from a survey undertaken in 2006 when 700 young people were asked to identify the issues which were most important to them. The key themes that emerged were keeping safe from harm, coping with bullying and maintaining good physical and mental health. These formed the basis of the discussions at the conference.

SpeakEasy delegates were asked to feed back the opinions of their peers around the four key themes to the professionals who provide services for young people. The findings will be used to inform the new Children’s and Young People’s Plan 2008-11 and the anti-bullying strategy.

Cllr Eileen Quick, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead children’s services, said: “The SpeakEasy conference has allowed the borough’s young people to have an official voice in their community and their school. It has also let our younger residents know how important their views are to the professionals who make decisions which affect them.”

Cyndy Gray, Royal Borough adviser for Windsor and Maidenhead healthy schools, said: “The event excelled all our expectations. The young people were lively, responsive and thoroughly engaged in the process, taking on board issues in a very thoughtful way. We were thrilled to be able to get votes anonymously about specific issues facilitated by two sixth formers at Furze Platt School, and also delighted to have the whole event filmed by a group of media studies students from Altwood School.”

Ed, a pupil from Desborough Boys’ School said: ”It has been good to talk about issues which are important to us and the borough. I think it would be useful for us to continue having such an active involvement in policies which effect our lives.”

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Thousands of Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough residents who care for sick or disabled relatives at home may be missing out on support that could help them juggle work and care responsibilities or simply make life easier.

To enable Windsor and Maidenhead carers to find out what help they could qualify for and how to claim it the Royal Borough, in conjunction with Berkshire East Primary Care Trust, The Princess Royal Trust and other local groups, is holding drop-in sessions and setting up information stands at a number of venues across the borough from Monday December 3 to Friday December 7 to celebrate Carers’ Rights Day (December 7)

The local groups will be among 800 from across the UK taking part in the national awareness day organised by Carers UK aimed at informing carers of the rights, benefits and services available and any important recent changes to these.

Cllr John Story, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead adult services, said: “It is estimated that there are more than 11,000 carers in the Royal Borough, more than 300 of them under 18 years old. Many of these carers are still unknown to the statutory, health and voluntary sector services and are not receiving any support in their caring role. Anyone who is a carer should come forward and receive the help that could make a big difference to their lives.”

John Shaw, chief executive of The Princess Royal Trust Carers Service said: “Anyone who looks after a sick or disabled person on an unpaid basis is a carer and may be able to get help. Carers have recently won new rights under the Work and Families Act 2006, where they can request flexible working from their employer. This could make the difference between staying in work or not.

“Research tells us that carers’ own health is twice as likely to suffer as a result of the stresses of caring and it is vital they know their rights to ensure they get the support they need.”

Carolyn Finlay, assistant director of localities at Berkshire East Primary Care Trust said: "It is essential that carers get all the help and support they need to stay in good health. These events will help carers find out what is out there for them. The NHS and other organisations are working hard to ensure carers can continue supporting the people they care for so they can stay in their own homes.”

Information stands will be on display from Monday December 3 to Friday December 7 at:
· Town Hall, St Ives Road, Maidenhead
· York House, Windsor
· St Marks Hospital, Maidenhead
· King Edward VII Hospital, Windsor
· Upton Hospital, Slough
· Ascot Library

In addition, members of the Windsor and Maidenhead welfare benefits advice team will be available to provide information on Friday December 7 at Ascot Library between 10am and 12noon, at the Town Hall, Maidenhead, between 10.30am and 12.30pm, and at York House between 2 and 4pm.

Carers UK has produced an information booklet, Looking after someone? A guide to carers’ rights and benefits, which can be ordered from December 7 by calling 0808 808 7777, visiting www.carersuk.org or writing to Carers’ Rights Day, Carers UK, 20-25, Glasshouse Yard, London EC1A 4JT.

Information can also be obtained through the borough’s access team on 01628 693744,The Princess Royal Trust Carers Services on 01628 777217 or Berkshire East PCT on 01753 635615 or at www.pals.berkseast@berkshire.nhs.uk

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Windsor and Maidenhead Advantage card holders using Maidenhead’s two largest car parks look set to enjoy new benefits of discounted tariffs under proposals up for discussion this week.

This bonus for local Windsor and Maidenhead residents means that cardholders will still pay exactly the same for their parking in both Nicholsons/Broadway and Hines Meadow car parks if the new discounted tariffs being considered by Cabinet on Thursday are approved.

The proposals mean that a new discounted rate will be introduced at the two car parks for the up to one, two and three-hour periods.

They also mean that Windsor and Maidenhead Advantage Card holders will continue to enjoy discounted rates at Alma Road, Victoria Street, Riverside and Alexandra Gardens car parks in Windsor as well as at Grove Road, West Street and the Town Hall car parks in Maidenhead.

The proposals form part of the council’s biennial review of parking charges and have undergone extensive deliberation to ensure overall increases remain in line with inflation.

Cllr David Burbage, leader of Windsor and Maidenhead council, said: “This is great news for Advantage Card holders who will now be able to use more of the borough’s car parks to get their discounts. We have listened to our residents and the Chamber of Commerce and have worked hard to deliver a sustainable solution to parking in the borough. We will be looking again at the issue of pay and display parking when these changes have had the opportunity to bed down.

“We are determined to encourage our residents to continue using their local towns for shopping and provide a realistic approach which will enable us to compete favourably with other local shopping centres.”

Cllr Colin Rayner, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead highways, transport and the environment, said this week: “In the last two years the council has made improvements to the car parks and our operating costs continue to rise above the rate of inflation. We have been left with no choice but to increase some of the car parking charges due to budgetry pressures.

“While it is an unavoidable reality that some charges will have to rise, I am pleased that we have been able to contain our increases to within the rate of inflation. If you have not used your Advantage Card up to now this may be the time to get one to save money on parking fees. If you are entitled to use an Advantage Card your parking could be cheaper.”

If cabinet gives the revised scale of charges the go-ahead, the new fees will be introduced by the middle of February, meaning Christmas shopping and the New Year sales will not be affected.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Learn new skills at the new Windsor and Maidenhead Woodlands Park Village Centre – that’s the invitation to adults and children alike as the centre gets in on the learning act with the launch of its first evening and daytime courses.

Kick-starting the learning curve at Windsor and Maidenhead Woodlands Park are twice-weekly beginners IT classes in the centre’s new IT suite on Tuesday evening and Thursday mornings run by the Royal Borough’s Lifelong Learning team.

Aimed at people with little or no experience of using computers, the Windsor and Maidenhead classes will cover a range of skills from using a mouse and saving files to surfing the internet. The classes run every Tuesday for four weeks until December 11 from 7 – 9pm and Thursday mornings until December 13 from 9.30 – 11.30am.

Take-up for the Thursday morning class has already proved so popular that another four-week course is already lined up to start on Mondays from next week (November 26) from 9.30 – 11.30am.

Also “on the cards” are seasonal card-making classes to be run on Tuesday afternoons from 1 – 2.30pm, with the emphasis in the first course on designing and making Christmas cards using stamps, different-coloured inks and a variety of cutting techniques.

The IT and card-making classes cost £12 for a four-week course.

Also in the pipeline are mini-mover and drama classes for parents and their youngsters aged three and over organised by the borough’s family learning team.

Cllr Jesse Grey, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead leisure and culture, said this week: “The Woodlands Park Village Centre is proving to be an exciting new facility in the heart of the Woodlands Park community.

“These new courses will provide even more opportunities for people to use the centre and help to develop the feeling of community even further. So why not sign up and learn a new skill!”

For further information about the courses – or to suggest other courses which could be held at the centre - contact Parwati Mistry of the borough’s Lifelong Learning team on 01628 796584.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

A Maidenhead shopkeeper has been fined a total of £1,000 after pleading guilty to two charges of selling unsafe electrical goods from his High Street store.

Suresh Kumar appeared at Maidenhead magistrates court on Friday on two charges under the Consumer Protection Act 1987 of selling illuminated framed pictures from the Lifestyle Homestore, 73 High Street, Maidenhead.

He was fined £500 on each of the two charges and ordered to pay £1,080 cost to the council.

The court heard how a Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough trading standards officer carried out a test purchase of an illuminated framed picture from the premises in August last year.

Subsequent tests revealed that the frame was not marked with the required safety information (including a CE mark) and also had an “inappropriate and incorrectly anchored “supply cord with inadequate levels of insulation – posing a risk of fire and electric shock.

The remaining 21 pictures in the shop were seized by officers and a further two exhibited the same problems of failing to comply with safety regulations which led to the subsequent charges.

Steve Johnson, Windsor and Maidenhead trading standards manager, said: “It is the responsibility of all shop owners to make sure that the goods they sell comply with strict safety regulations.

“This case helps to deliver the message that we in trading standards will continue to prosecute proprieters who compromise the safety of their customers by selling unsafe goods and attempt to use ignorance of the regulations as a defence.”

The court ordered the forfeiture of all the items to trading standards.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Windsor and Maidenhead Royal Borough schoolchildren are top of the class when it comes to speaking out – it’s official!

Pupils from 34 Windsor and Maidenhead borough schools have proved they really are keen to have their voices heard on a range of issues by taking part in a nationwide survey commissioned by Ofsted – and helping the borough to notch up one of the highest response rates to the survey in the country.

The aim of the online survey – carried out among Windsor and Maidenhead pupils in Years 6, 8 and 10 in schools earlier this year - was to find out what children and young people think about a range of issues related to the government’s Every Child Matters strategy. The strategy aims to make sure that all children are healthy, stay safe, enjoy and achieve at school, make a positive contribution and achieve economic well-being.

The overall survey responses are positive, with evidence that young people in the Windsor and Maidenhead borough:

* have high aspirations – with 62% hoping to go on to study at university - significantly higher than the figure of 50% nationally
* feel there is enough to do in the area and that information about activities locally is good
* are happy with their participation in their school’s decision-making process, with 47% saying they had voted in an election at school compared with 43% nationally. 58% of children in Years 8 and 10 think that their views are listened to in the running of the school, compared with 52% nationally.

Cllr Eileen Quick, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead education, said; “I am delighted with the really good response from our schools to this very useful survey.

“It is vitally important that we listen to the voices of our children, and respond to them. This survey provided just that opportunity for them to speak out on a number of issues of importance to them. It is very encouraging to see so many positive views expressed, although we are not complacent.

“We will ensure that we use the information from this survey and continue to listen to the views of our young people - views which will help us to develop the new Children and Young People’s Plan.

“I would like to thank all those schools who took part in this very valuable exercise and for enabling us to reflect the needs of our young people as much as possible in our future planning.”

The information from the Windsor and Maidenhead survey will be used by Ofsted – along with other information – to determine the result of the council’s Annual Performance Assessment (APA) of Children’s Services for this year, due for publication at the end of November.

The Tellus survey will take place every year from now on as part of the APA and will be extended to special schools from next year.

The full results of the survey are available on the Ofsted website at www.ofsted.gov.uk/reports/localauthorities

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

A man who was injured in a road traffic collision in Maidenhead last month has died.

Steven Molner, aged 70, of Hemsdale, Maidenhead, was the driver of a red Saab that was in collision with a green Range Rover at the junction of Queensway and Gardner Road at about 7.30pm on 31 October.

He was taken to Wexham Park Hospital, where he died on 15 November.

Two men in their early twenties, who were initially arrested on suspicion of dangerous driving and driving under the influence of alcohol, were last night (19/11) rearrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving. They are currently on bail until 22 December 2007 pending further inquiries.

Anyone who witnessed the Maidenhead incident is asked to contact Sgt Dick Miller of Taplow Roads Policing 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.

Prior to the collision, the Range Rover was seen by police officers, who were on foot patrol in the area. They signalled for it to stop, but it failed to do so. Shortly afterwards, the vehicle was seen by other officers in a patrol car, but again failed to stop.

As is standard procedure in such cases, the incident has been referred by Thames Valley Police’s Professional Standards Department to the Independent Police Complaints Commission.

Thames Valley Police ~ Maidenhead

Neighbourhood policing will be re-launched in Maidenhead town centre next week.

The new style of Maidenhead community policing was first introduced to the town centre in September. It is being re-launched to give more businesses the opportunity to identify issues which affect them most.

The meeting will take place on Wednesday 21 November at St. Mary’s Church Hall, Maidenhead starting at 12pm. It is expected to last an hour.

Maidenhead Insp Mark Millward said: “At the launch, we will be asking local businesses to set their three main policing priorities for the next six months. It is vital that as many local businesses as possible are represented, so that the priorities reflect the concerns of all.

“Police officers, police staff, partner agencies and the community - through representatives on a Neighbourhood Action Group (NAG) - will work together to tackle the issues that are most important to the community.

“The meeting is a real opportunity for local people to drop in and tell us what matters to them. I hope to see as many people there as possible.”

The neighbourhood officers can be contacted via the single non-emergency number on 0845 8 505 505.

Thames Valley Police ~ Maidenhead

Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Maidenhead: 25 November - 1 December 2007
Altwood Road
Maidenhead
SL6 4PF
01628 788997

25th November in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 5:00 pm
Aoife Mannix - Growing up an Alien
* 7:30 pm
Francesca Martinez - In Deep
* Workshops and other events
* 10:00 am
John Rogers – The Joy of Innovation and Variety in Painting
* 11:00 am
Aoife Mannix - Growing up an Alien workshop
* 1:30 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group D
* 2:00 pm
Aoife Mannix - Growing up an Alien workshop
* 4:00 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group E

26th November in Maidenhead

No events planned

27th November in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 7:30 pm
Tom Crean: Antarctic Explorer
* Workshops and other events
* 2:00 pm
John Rogers – The Joy of Innovation and Variety in Painting
* 3:00 pm
Tea Dance with Mr Wonderful
* 4:30 pm
Bollywood Dance
* 5:45 pm
Norden Exposure Youth Dance
* 7:00 pm
Norden Exposure Academy

28th November in Maidenhead

* Workshops and other events
* 10:30 am
Embroidery with a Sewing Machine
* 2:00 pm
John Rogers – The Joy of Innovation and Variety in Painting
* 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
* 8:00 pm
3:10 to Yuma (PG)

29th November in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 7:30 pm
Endellion String Quartet
* 7:45 pm
Someone Who'll Watch Over Me
* 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
John Rogers – The Joy of Innovation and Variety in Painting
* 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

30th November in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 7:45 pm
Someone Who'll Watch Over Me
* 8:00 pm
3:10 to Yuma (PG)
* Workshops and other events
* 10:30 am
Fun at the Farm
* 2:00 pm
John Rogers – The Joy of Innovation and Variety in Painting

1st December in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 7:30 pm
Celebrity Piano Recital - Joanna Macgregor
* 7:45 pm
Someone Who'll Watch Over Me
* Workshops and other events
* 9:30 am
Kathak Dance
* 10:00 am
John Rogers – The Joy of Innovation and Variety in Painting
* 10:00 am
International Film History: Development, Theory and Analysis
* 10:30 am
Kathak Dance - Intermediate
* 11:30 am
Kathak Dancea

It's 'last orders' in the annual canvass to make sure you have your say in elections. That's the message from the Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough elections team who have sent forms to every household in the area for residents to complete in order to register their right to vote.

If you have not done so already, these forms must be filled in immediately. They also give you the opportunity to opt out of the version of the electoral register available to commercial organisations for marketing purposes.

Forms must be returned to the Electoral Registration Officer, The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead, Town Hall, St Ives Road, Maidenhead, Berkshire, SL6 1RF. If householders fail to respond for two years, any names previously listed have to be removed by law, and you may miss out on your right to vote.

The Register of Electors will be published on Monday, December 3 and will be available for inspection at the Town Hall in Maidenhead, York House in Windsor and the main libraries in Windsor and Maidenhead.

If your form has not reached us in time to be included on the register printed on December 3, and you subsequently find you are not registered, you will need to contact the electoral services team on 01628 796400 (or at the above address) to be registered again.

Anyone who moves house after they have completed this form, or later in the year, should make sure they change their entry by contacting the electoral registration office for a form or printing one from the website. Entries cannot be changed from council tax or other council records.

Further information is available from the electoral registration office on 01628 796400

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Italian delights from olives and oils to cheeses, cakes and breads will be sold on the streets of Maidenhead later this month when Italian traders bring their freshly-produced treats to town.

On Thursday November 22 and Saturday 24 market stalls will line the High Street from 9am to 5.30pm and on Friday 23 the market will be open from 9am to 8pm in celebration of the Christmas lights switch-on. The market is being hosted by Maidenhead Town Partnership.

The many goods on offer include speciality breads such as focaccia, herb and ciabatta; antipasto of olives, marinated artichokes, sun-dried tomatoes and pickled vegetables; biscuits, cakes and pastries; cheeses to include parmesan, goats, sheep and cow’s milk cheese; cured meats; pastas; olive oils and vinegars; hot foods which can been eaten in town or taken home to be warmed up and Torrone e Cioccolata – a speciality cake best described as soft nougat, which comes in 33 flavours! There will also be an array of chocolate cakes and drinks to suit all palates.

Steph James, Maidenhead town centre manager, said: “The Christmas Italian market coming to Maidenhead will be a great opportunity for shoppers to get those special gifts for Christmas and treat themselves too.

“There will be loads on offer, and alongside all the other events in Maidenhead this Christmas it will be a great start to the festive season.”

For more information about the market, call Steph James, town centre manager, on 01628 794128.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

The Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough is armed and ready to face the winter chill with the start of its annual winter maintenance programme – and at the weekend gritters took to the roads for their first "outing" of the season.

The Windsor and Maidenhead council's highways maintenance contractors Balfour Beatty Infrastructure Services are currently on 24-hour standby until the end of March 2008 – and set the gritting wheels in motion on Sunday night to grit the borough's primary routes after forecasters predicted temperatures likely to fall below freezing.

Salting the borough's roads is carried out on a priority basis:

· primary routes which make up more than one-third of the area's roads – covering 145 miles (232km) of the borough's roads with the heaviest traffic – are regularly salted when weather forecasts indicate that road conditions are likely to deteriorate
· secondary routes – seven per cent of the network covering 31 miles (41 km) are salted during prolonged adverse weather conditions. These routes include some bus routes, roads outside schools, hospitals and some minor roads.
· town centre footways in Maidenhead, Windsor, Ascot, Cookham, Datchet, Eton, Old Windsor, Sunningdale and Sunninghill are also salted during prolonged adverse weather conditions.

Cllr Colin Rayner, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead highways, said this week: "The safety of our residents and visitors – both motorists and pedestrians – is of paramount importance as they negotiate the borough's roads, particularly during the cold days and dark nights of the winter months ahead.

"We are fairly fortunate that in the past ten years we have not suffered great extremes of weather in this area – but we are confident that we are ready and able to cope with the sort of levels we have experienced in the past.

"I would also like to remind residents to make sure their cars are ready for winter driving conditions too." (see the RAC website at http://www.rac.co.uk/ and the AA website at http://www.theaa.com/ for tips on preparing for winter motoring).

Stephen Brown, head of highways said this week: "As it turned out on Sunday night temperatures did not quite fall below freezing, but it is always better to be on the safe side."

The annual gritting programme is monitored by the Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough highways and engineering team, with duty managers on 24-hour call using information from the London Weather Centre and their computerised road sensor system to make decisions on when to send out the gritter lorries. The aim is to complete the salting before any roads become icy. Spreading the salt usually takes about four hours from the time a decision is taken.

Full details of all the roads on the borough's primary and secondary routes, as well as the town centre footways on the winter gritting programme can be found on the borough website.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Co-ordinated efforts by the Windsor and Maidenhead Royal Borough, Community Safety and the Thames Valley Police before and during Halloween and bonfire night have been hailed a success after criminal damage dropped by almost a fifth compared to last year.

Seventy-five criminal damage incidents were recorded by the police between October 30 and November 6 this year, compared to 92 last year, a reduction of 17 incidents or 18.5%.

In addition, the Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough's antisocial behaviour team received no specific complaints of Halloween or bonfire night-related problems and Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service reported an average week with no significant increase in callouts resulting from Halloween and bonfire night.

Cllr Jesse Grey, lead member for community safety, said: "I am delighted that the joined-up partnership approach to tackling antisocial behaviour has seen a reduction in incidents compared to last year.

"Many thanks to everyone for all their efforts before and during this critical period, and thanks also to the shopkeepers and publicans, neighbourhood watches and members of the public who worked with them."

Inspector Mark Millward, community safety, Thames Valley Police, said: "There was a great reduction in criminal activity in the area as a result of the joint operation. While we realise that there is still some work to do in stamping out antisocial behaviour, we are encouraged by the result and would like to thank all those concerned for helping to keep the Halloween and bonfire night period a safe and enjoyable one."

Partnership measures by the groups included:

· a one-week-only mobile phone number was given out to neighbourhood watches and affected residents and was successful in alerting police to incidents as they were occurring

· all Windsor and Maidenhead neighbourhood police officers, community wardens and the borough's licensing team were on high visibility patrols across the borough on Halloween and bonfire night

· local shops and licensed premises worked in partnership with the authorities to reduce problems associated with alcohol, fireworks and the throwing of eggs and flour

· the Windsor and Maidenhead borough's community and youth services took 40 young people to a Thorpe Park Fright Night as part of their diversionary activities programme, a move supported by the police.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

The problem of bullying – and how to tackle it – takes centre stage at one Windsor and Maidenhead Royal Borough school in the coming weeks.

Year Six pupils at Dedworth Middle School will be taking "Three Steps Forward" in the move to stamp out bullying when they take part in an innovative programme of interactive drama workshops starting at the school this week – tying in with national Anti-Bullying Week from November 19 – 23.

The "Three Steps Forward" programme – run by the Realeyes Theatre company – uses drama and creativity workshops to highlight the problem of bullying in a practical way to address issues including:
· peer pressure, prejudice and discrimination through simulated role play
· anti-bullying strategies through drama improvisation
· anti-bullying culture in the community through an arts and creative thinking workshop.

Cllr Eileen Quick, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead children's services, said: "Some young people suffer terribly as a result of bullying, and anything we can do to highlight and tackle the problem is extremely worthwhile."

"This programme is a very practical way of helping to equip young people with the skills to address the problem of bullying – and to help develop instead a culture of respect, tolerance and understanding of how to deal with the issues.

"The programme at Dedworth is the first of its kind in the borough, and is intended to help support the school with its existing and very robust anti-bullying strategy. We hope to be able to extend it to other schools in the near future."

Stuart Muir, headteacher at Dedworth Middle School, said: "We are delighted to be given the opportunity to take part in this programme, which will complement the work of the anti-bullying strategy and the whole-school approach we are already using to combat bullying.

"The Three Steps Forward programme involves the children on a practical level, and teachers and parents too, with suggestions for follow-up activities, tips, information and advice which can be taken outside the classroom and into the home. We are all looking forward to it immensely."

The programme is funded by a partnership between the Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough's Healthy Schools team and the Berkshire East PCT.

Philip Brooks, consultant in public health and local health lead at Berkshire East PCT said; "Innovative and exciting ways to present the anti-bullying message are extremely important when engaging with young people and children. This will hopefully be the first of similar programmes throughout the borough and we hope that the message to pupils, and to their schools, is loud and clear – bullying must not be tolerated."

The first session takes place at the school on Tuesday November 13.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

To celebrate National Tree Week (Wednesday November 21 to Sunday December 2), the Windsor and Maidenhead Royal Borough's countryside rangers are inviting residents to help create a new wood at Ockwells Park nature reserve in Maidenhead.

Young and old alike are invited to join the Windsor and Maidenhead rangers to plant 1,500 saplings to create 7 Oaks Wood at the nature reserve any time between 10am and 4pm on Saturday November 24. As well as being an attractive place to visit, the new wood will improve the borough's biodiversity, by increasing the wildlife value of the area for animals and insects as the wood continues to change and develop over years to come.

Sensible outdoor clothing and footwear is the dress code – and of course bring along a spade! The rangers will show participants how to plant the trees and be on hand to answer any questions. Voluntary tree wardens from the borough will also be on hand to demonstrate what to do. Refreshments will be provided (tea and coffee etc) and some copies of the Good Seed Guide books will be available. The event is free and open to all.

Cllr Jesse Grey, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead community safety, leisure and culture, said: "Come down to the nature reserve on November 24 and help make history. This is going to be a great event which all different age groups can enjoy.

"You don't need any experience or knowledge about trees or gardening to take part, just lots of enthusiasm and suitable clothing!"

There will be signs directing residents to the planting area on the day. For more information call the rangers on 01628 777440.

On Tuesday November 27, there is also an opportunity for local schools to come down to the park and help plant trees. For more information call 01628 777440.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Maidenhead: 18 November - 24 November 2007
Altwood Road
Maidenhead
SL6 4PF
01628 788997

18th November in Maidenhead

* Workshops and other events
* 10:00 am
John Rogers – The Joy of Innovation and Variety in Painting
* 1:30 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group D
* 4:00 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group E

19th November in Maidenhead

No events planned

20th November in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 7:30 pm
Twelfth Night
* Workshops and other events
* 2:00 pm
John Rogers – The Joy of Innovation and Variety in Painting
* 4:30 pm
Bollywood Dance
* 5:45 pm
Norden Exposure Youth Dance
* 7:00 pm
Norden Exposure Academy

21st November in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 7:45 pm
A Christmas Carol
* Workshops and other events
* 10:30 am
Embroidery with a Sewing Machine
* 2:00 pm
John Rogers – The Joy of Innovation and Variety in Painting
* 4:15 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group A
* 5:30 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group B
* 6:45 pm
Norden Lights Academy

22nd November in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 7:45 pm
A Christmas Carol
* Workshops and other events
* 10:30 am
Jewellery: Make silver rings, pendants and bracelets
* 2:00 pm
John Rogers – The Joy of Innovation and Variety in Painting
* 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

23rd November in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 7:45 pm
A Christmas Carol
* Workshops and other events
* 10:30 am
Fun at the Farm
* 2:00 pm
John Rogers – The Joy of Innovation and Variety in Painting
* 7:15 pm
Life Drawing

24th November in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 11:00 am
A Musical Mystery Tour
* 2:00 pm
A Musical Mystery Tour
* 2:00 pm
A Christmas Carol
* 7:45 pm
A Christmas Carol
* 8:00 pm
Aoife Mannix - Growing up an Alien
* Workshops and other events
* 9:30 am
Kathak Dance
* 10:00 am
International Film History: Development, Theory and Analysis
* 10:00 am
John Rogers – The Joy of Innovation and Variety in Painting
* 10:30 am
Kathak Dance - Intermediate
* 11:30 am
Kathak Dance

Maidenhead town hall,
St Ives Road,
Maidenhead.
12.12.07 - 16.12.07 @ 7.30pm

Get your cowboy hats at the ready for Maidenhead Drama Guild's Panto at the OK Corral.

Deadwood Gulch is a typical sleepy cowboy town, but there's a trouble brewing.

The wicked Sheriff Smallholding, who's lower than a snake's belly and smells like a coyote, aided by his trusty sidekicks Butch Casserole and the Sun Tanned Kid, are trying to run Dame Winnie, James, Jane and Lightning the horse off a their land.

Will the stranger in town Clint Westwood save the day and get the girl? Or will Winnie sell up and mosey on out of town? Will Lightning end up as a meat pie? Will Butch Casserole and Sun Tanned Kid ever do anything right?

All these and other questions will thankfully be answered at the OK Corral.

Panto at the OK Corral is a traditional Panto with a twist - with all of the music, laughter and audience participation you would expect from a good old British pantomime.

So get your horses, swagger into this western town, and prepare to be entertained!

Tickets: | £8-£6 | Box office: 01628 635017

Maidenhead Drama Guild

Two Windsor and Maidenhead Royal Borough leisure centres are this week celebrating a sporting double which puts them firmly in the top ten leisure centres in the country.

The Magnet in Maidenhead and Windsor leisure centre have each performed their own personal bests to secure their places in the premier league of leisure centres across the country in terms of how they operate and care for their customers in a prestigious quality assessment scheme.

The Magnet in Maidenhead is now joint third in the country out of a total of 777 leisure centres, with a score of 85%, a leap of two places from fifth in the country at its last accreditation two years ago.

The busy centre now lines up proudly alongside Lilleshall National sports centre in Shropshire, surpassed only by Edinburgh leisure centre in top spot and Guildford Spectrum in second place.

Windsor leisure centre has made an even greater leap for sporting-kind with its rise from joint 15th two years ago to seventh place and 81% in this year's ratings.

QUEST is a nationally recognised, industry-wide quality assurance for leisure centres, supported by all four home sports councils including Sport England and by the Audit Commission as a tool for demonstrating quality assurance.

The Magnet is one of the first leisure centres in the country to be assessed under the scheme's new rating system, which features a rigorous two-day inspection, and mystery visits as well as a focus on four specific areas – facility operations, customer relations, staffing and service development and review.

Windsor leisure centre was assessed on the existing QUEST scheme which also included a two-day visit by a national QUEST assessor for a detailed inspection of systems and processes and interviews with staff earlier this year

Cllr Jesse Grey, lead member for leisure and culture, said this week: "These are fantastic results for both the Magnet and Windsor Leisure Centre, which reflect a great deal of hard work and dedication from all the staff involved.

"The QUEST assessment is a very rigorous and demanding one, but it does give a very valuable independent reflection of the work and service and ongoing commitment to improvement of which we are so very proud.

"I would like to congratulate everyone involved on such well-deserved recognition of a job truly well done."

This is the Magnet's third QUEST accreditation and the fourth for WLC.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough's trading standards officers are once again dealing with the voluntary recall of a product by the Maidenhead-based toy giant Mattel.

The Fisher Price Laugh & Learn Kitchen has been voluntarily withdrawn from sale by Mattel following a number of incidents in the US where small parts have been broken off the tap and clock which are an integral part of the toy, posing a potential choking hazard to small children.

Despite the fact that the toy had passed all the required safety tests, the company took immediate action once it became aware of the problem and decided voluntarily to withdraw the toy from sale and recall those that have already been sold.

Around 7,000 products have been supplied to retailers in the UK and Ireland, with another 11,000 sold around Europe.

Steve Johnson, Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough trading standards manager said: "We have three main priorities at this stage. First we need to work with Mattel to bring this recall to the public's attention. Secondly we will work with the company to ensure that the toys are no longer used by small children and to ensure that there are no further problems.

"Thirdly we will deal with the legal process by which the recall is notified to all EU members so that the recall is effective across Europe."

Windsor and Maidenhead Consumers who think they have one of these products are advised to visit Mattel's website http://www.service.mattel.com/uk where they will find full details of the product and advice on what to do next. Alternatively those who prefer phone support can call 0808 234 8437.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Maidenhead Police are appealing for information after a woman was bitten by a dog in Holyport.

At 6.55am on Wednesday 31 October, a 38-year-old woman was jogging in Holyport Road, Holyport, Maidenhead when she was bitten by the dog, which was being walked on a lead at the time.

The woman sustained minor injuries to her arm which were treated by her GP.

The dog is believed to be a cream and white Collie cross with a black face.

The dog walker is a white man in his late fifties or sixties. He was wearing a dark jacket and green Wellington boots. He was also walking a second dog - a black and white Collie - at the time.

Anyone with any information is urged to contact Linda Adlington at Windsor police station via the Police Enquiry Centre on 0845 8 505 505. If you don’t want to speak to police or leave your name, call the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111.

Thames Valley Police ~ Maidenhead

Pupils from two Windsor schools will fly the Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough "health" flag at a special conference to be held in the borough this week.

The youngsters from Oakfield First and Dedworth Middle Schools will take centre stage to help launch the Berkshire Healthy Schools conference to be held on Tuesday November 6 from 9am to 3pm at Windsor Racecourse, Maidenhead Road, Windsor.

The pupils' star turn – a musical performance in which they will sing about their "Recipe for a Healthy School" - kicks off a day of workshops and discussions around the theme of "Leading the Way" as part of the popular Healthy Schools programme.

To date, nearly 40 Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough schools have achieved Healthy Schools status, which requires participating schools to demonstrate their commitment to the programme by focussing on issues ranging from sex and relationships and drug education, managing feelings and preventing bullying to the importance of regular activity and making healthy eating choices.

All these topics will be covered in workshops during next week's one-day conference organised by Berkshire local authorities and the NHS for teachers and senior managers across Berkshire under the headings of personal social and health education (PSHE), emotional health and wellbeing, physical activity and healthy eating.

Flying the "professional" flag for the Royal Borough and leading two of the workshops will be Healthy Schools advisers Jenny Murphy who will talk about "Getting to Grips with Outcomes" and Cyndy Gray who will round off the day with a workshop entitled "Assessing Personal, Social and Health Education – making it Manageable".

Cllr Eileen Quick, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead education, said: "I would like to see every school in the borough achieving National Healthy Schools status as it is all about helping young people to feel healthy both physically and emotionally, encouraging every child to feel good about themselves and enabling them to develop into well-rounded adults.

"Next week's conference will enable teachers and other professionals to share information and experiences to help spread the health message to more young people – and for these young people to take that important message out of the classroom to their own families at home."

Dr Angela Snowling, public health lead at Berkshire East Primary Care Trust, said: "The potential for positive long-term effects on a person's health could be greatly influenced by educating, from a young age, about the importance of physical and emotional wellbeing.

"The National Healthy Schools programme gives participating schools a great head start in helping their pupils to have the healthy lifestyle that we all deserve."

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

The Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough is celebrating after hearing it has won two prestigious national awards for its work in regulating the Ascot Racecourse redevelopment.

The Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough received the Best Partnership with Client and Best Fire Engineering solution awards at the annual Local Authority Building Control National Built in Quality awards organised by Building magazine. The winners were announced at a ceremony at the Grosvenor House Hotel in Park Lane, London.

The council's building control team, which ensures developments across the borough comply with building regulations, worked closely with the applicants of the Ascot Racecourse redevelopment throughout the design and construction processes of the project.

Cllr Derek Wilson, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead planning and housing, said: "It is wonderful that the team's excellent work has been recognised at a national level.

"These awards are testament to the long-term working relationship achieved between the client and ourselves on a complex project which had to be built to a tight and unmoveable completion date."

Roger Paine, building control consultancy manager, said: "I'm absolutely delighted the team has received these awards, especially as we were competing against entries from so many other authorities and private companies.

"The Royal Borough secured the contract for Ascot Racecourse against private tenders and its professional relationship with Ascot Racecourse is an excellent example of partnership working."

Local authorities submitted 180 schemes nationally – double the number of last year – and the entries were judged across 12 awards categories. For more information about the awards see www.labc.uk.com

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

The South Ascot Children's Centre, based at South Ascot Village Primary School in All Souls Road, is the first children's centre in the Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough to have gained official Sure Start status.

Sure Start is a government programme which aims to deliver the best start in life for every child and brings together early education, childcare, health and family. The Windsor and Maidenhead South Ascot centre has received this designation because it is leading the way in the provision of support and advice to families with babies and children up to the age of five, including drop-in clinics, advice sessions from social care and health professionals, coffee mornings and access to helpful information.

Cllr Eileen Quick, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead children's services, said: "The children's centre at South Ascot Village Primary School is at the heart of the community, providing an excellent resource for all those who use it. Sure Start recognition is wonderful news for the borough's residents."

Gill Cocklin, head teacher and centre manager, said: "We are very excited about our new children's centre, which has been designed with the needs of local children in mind. The Sure Start status shows we are meeting the high standards set by the government for the provision of integrated services for children and their families.

"Parents and carers are very welcome to pop in at any time or call us on 07512 850387."

The South Ascot centre joins a growing network of children's centres across the country providing early learning and family support. By 2010, there will be 3,500 children's centres up and running – one for every community, offering a range of services for families.

A total of six children's centres will be in place in the Windsor and Maidenhead Royal Borough by March 2008 – the facility at Woodlands Park Village Centre opened last month and will be followed by centres at St Mark's Hospital, Maidenhead, Ellington Primary School, Maidenhead, Dedworth Green First School and The Lawns Nursery School, Windsor.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Maidenhead: 11 November - 17 November 2007
Altwood Road
Maidenhead
SL6 4PF
01628 788997

11th November in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 7:00 pm
Marva - My Journey
* Workshops and other events
* 1:30 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group D
* 2:00 pm
Perspectives: Special trees of the Chilterns
* 4:00 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group E

12th November in Maidenhead

No events planned

13th November in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 8:00 pm
Atonement (15)
* Workshops and other events
* 11:15 am
Giddha Dance
* 4:30 pm
Bollywood Dance
* 5:45 pm
Norden Exposure Youth Dance
* 7:00 pm
Norden Exposure Academy

14th November in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 10:30 am
Atonement (15) Parent & Baby Screening
* 2:30 pm
Atonement (15)
* 8:00 pm
Atonement (15)
* Workshops and other events
* 10:30 am
Embroidery with a Sewing Machine
* 2:00 pm
John Rogers – The Joy of Innovation and Variety in Painting
* 4:15 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group A
* 5:30 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group B
* 6:45 pm
Norden Lights Academy

15th November in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 7:30 pm
Bloomsbury Boys
* 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
Writing a Novel for Publication
* 2:00 pm
John Rogers – The Joy of Innovation and Variety in Painting
* 5:00 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group C
* 6:00 pm
Tabla Drumming
* 6:15 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group F

16th November in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 7:45 pm
Guy Barker (trumpet) with the Pendulum Jazz Orchestra
* Workshops and other events
* 10:30 am
Fun at the Farm
* 2:00 pm
John Rogers – The Joy of Innovation and Variety in Painting
* 7:15 pm
Life Drawing

17th November in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 7:30 pm
Abigail's Party
* Workshops and other events
* 9:30 am
Kathak Dance
* 10:00 am
International Film History: Development, Theory and Analysis
* 10:00 am
John Rogers – The Joy of Innovation and Variety in Painting
* 10:30 am
Kathak Dance - Intermediate
* 11:30 am
Kathak Dance

Two men were arrested after a road traffic collision in Maidenhead on Wednesday night (31/10).

At approximately 7.30pm, a green Range Rover was in collision with a red Saab at the junction of Queensway and Gardner Road, Maidenhead.

The driver of the Saab sustained a broken pelvis, cuts and bruises. He was cut from his vehicle and taken to Wexham Park Hospital, where his condition is described as stable.

Two men in their early twenties were arrested on suspicion of dangerous driving and driving under the influence of alcohol. They have been released on bail until later this month.

Anyone with information about the incident, who has not already come forward, is asked to contact PC Tom Gibson at Taplow Roads Policing Department 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

Royal Windsor Information Centre has been highly commended in a prestigious tourism award scheme.

The information centre, in the Old Booking Hall, Royal Windsor Station, was recognised in the Tourist Information Centre of the Year category at the Tourism ExSEllence Awards 2007. The awards scheme recognises excellence, quality and innovation across all sectors of the tourism industry.

Royal Windsor Information Centre was rewarded for various key aspects of its operation, including innovation, excellent customer service and continued commitment to improving performance and services to visitors. According to the judges, the centre was singled out for the role it plays in supporting the local tourism industry and for 'forging highly-effective partnerships'.

Cllr Elisabeth Barton, chairman of the Windsor and Maidenhead borough's Visitor Management Forum, said: "The visitor information centre staff deal with hundreds of queries on a daily basis, advising several million people each year on the wonderful attractions we have in the Royal Borough.

"To be singled out for this commendation is a great achievement of which they should be very proud."

Julia White, visitor manager, said: "Well done to all the team whose work has been acknowledged as being first class. There are more than 500 information outlets in England and we are absolutely delighted the Royal Windsor Information Centre has been given national recognition as one of the top three in the South East."

The Tourism ExSEllence Awards ceremony, which took place at Wentworth on October 23, was a winning night for the Thames Valley with Ascot Racecourse being awarded the title of Best Tourism Experience and www.visitthames.co.uk - owned and managed by the Environment Agency in Reading on behalf of the River Thames Alliance - voted Best Tourism website.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

A review of Windsor and Maidenhead council tax discounts is being carried out by the Royal Borough to make sure local people are paying the correct amount of council tax. The review is being coordinated with Reading Borough Council.

The Windsor and Maidenhead councils have teamed up with an independent company to carry out the work, which will check if people receiving a 25% discount on their bills because they live alone (the single person discount) are really living alone.

People often forget to tell the council when their circumstances change, for example when a new partner moves in, when a child becomes 18 or leaves home, or a partner dies, which is why the council is carrying out the checks.

The latest data matching technology will be used to check the council tax database.

If examples are found of people receiving the discount when they apparently should not be, a letter will be sent asking them to fill in a form so bills can then be amended. A second reminder will be sent to those who don't respond. If that fails, and if there is strong evidence it is being wrongly claimed, people will be told the discount is being stopped.

In the meantime, anyone who would like to update their records ahead of this survey can do so via the Windsor and Maidenhead borough's website www.rbwm.gov.uk or the customer service centre on 01628 683850.

Cllr David Hilton, deputy leader and lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead finance, said: "While it is important that those residents entitled to this benefit receive it, the cost of those claiming who are no longer entitled is borne by other taxpayers.

"People can have a change in their situation over the years. They may have a new partner or tenant move in, or it could simply be that one of their children becomes an adult and ceases to be a student. Whatever the circumstances, we need to know so we can keep our records up to date and recover the money due to us. It is only fair to the vast majority of council taxpayers who pay on time and inform the council of changes.

"There may also be people who do not realise they qualify for help and we hope this will also raise awareness of people's entitlement to the single persons' discount," he added.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

The achievements of young people in the Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough will be celebrated in a display in the Town Hall foyer during Youth Work Week, Thursday November 1 to Wednesday 7.

Photographs, captions and posters will highlight the successes of youngsters in a variety of Windsor and Maidenhead borough youth service-based projects, including cookery, car maintenance and summer activities such as outings and sports. There will also be an opportunity to meet with youth service staff members on the Thursday from 1 to 5pm.

The theme of this year's Youth Work Week is All Different, All Equal, which is also the theme of the current campaign being run by the Council of Europe with the European Youth Forum.

As well as highlighting the positive roles played by Windsor and Maidenhead young people in their communities, Youth Work Week showcases and celebrates the contribution of youth work to the development of young people, offers a focused period in which youth workers plan activities around the year's theme, and raises the profile of the youth service as a whole.

Cllr Eileen Quick, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead children's services, said: "One of the key defining qualities of youth work is that it respects and values difference and encourages young people to do so too.

"Within the borough we have young people from a wide range of social, cultural and economic backgrounds and Youth Work Week gives us the chance to celebrate their achievements and to recognise the people who work so diligently to encourage, inspire and guide them in their teen years."

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead