Maidenhead & Windsor

The Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough has underlined its 'firm commitment' to the future of the arts in Windsor – and is looking to find a new provider to take forward a varied programme to cater for the needs of the local community.

Since Windsor Community Arts Centre Limited went into administration just before Christmas the council has been contacted by as many as a dozen individual people and organisations, keen to get involved in maintaining arts provision in the town – and the process to find the successful provider is now under way.

Cllr Jesse Grey, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead leisure and culture and one of the council's trustees for the building, said: "We have been very encouraged by the high level of interest and the enthusiasm shown by everyone who has contacted us. There is a deeply-held desire – shared by the council – to keep the arts alive in Windsor, and our aim is to find a provider who will be able to supply a lively, sustainable programme to cater for the widest possible range of interests."

Cllr Grey stressed the Windsor and Maidenhead borough's firm commitment to arts in Windsor and said that, in the upcoming 2008/09 budget, councillors were keen to retain the £80,000 grant previously given to the arts centre. A final decision will be taken on February 26.

He added: "We will be contacting all those who have expressed an interest to date and we would be very interested to hear from others – either individuals or groups – who have ideas or proposals for continuing arts provision. This is a time for people to come forward with their views so that they can be considered as options for local arts provision for the benefit of Windsor residents and visitors."

Anyone interested in putting forward proposals for the provision of arts in Windsor should contact Mark Taylor, head of the library, information, heritage and arts service, on 01628 786989 or email arts@rbwm.gov.uk

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Homeowners aged 60 years and older will be able to apply to the Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough for home improvement loans if the borough gets the go-ahead to introduce an innovative new scheme.

The proposal to implement the flexible home improvement loan scheme – which the Windsor and Maidenhead borough's housing project team was instrumental in designing – will be discussed at the planning and environment overview and scrutiny panel meeting on Wednesday January 30 and decided upon by cabinet on Thursday February 21.

Under the scheme, older homeowners – many of who are 'income poor' but 'equity rich' – could apply for finance to make repairs or improvements and then choose to make regular repayments, occasional repayments or no payments at all until the property is eventually sold. As loans are repaid, the money will be recycled as further loans.

Cllr David Hilton, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead finance, said: "This scheme would be a boon to any property owner over 60 in the borough looking to carry out repairs or improvements to make their home a warmer, safer and healthier place.

"It is of paramount importance that we provide loans equal or superior to other lenders in terms of interest rates, charges, efficiency and flexibility. Our target interest rate is 5%, fixed for the life of the mortgage, and the minimum loan would be £1,000. Naturally, the loan may only be used to fund approved repairs or improvements."

The scheme was designed by a Royal Borough-led consortium of 17 local authorities in Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire and Surrey. These authorities represent slightly more than 22% of the private sector housing stock in the South East and share a number of similar characteristics, including:

· house prices well above the national average and demand for property very high
· relatively few areas of housing poverty
· a large number of elderly property owners who have a modest income but a high level of equity in their properties
· a higher demand for home repair assistance grants than existing funds can support.

The consortium submitted its bid to the South East Regional Housing Board and was advised in December that a total grant of £16 million over three years has been approved, subject to ratification by the Secretary of State.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Reptile lovers can stroke a snake, hold a lizard and come face to face with tropical frogs during two exciting hands-on sessions in Windsor over the spring half term.

The Countryside Service's Snakes Alive! event takes place on Thursday February 21 from 2 to 3pm and 3.10 to 4.10pm at New Windsor Social Club, off Hanover Way, Dedworth.

Families are welcome, although the sessions are not suitable for children under five years. All children must be accompanied by an adult.

The cost is £5.50 per person with an Advantage Card or £6.40 per adult and £6.20 per child without an Advantage Card.

Booking in advance is essential; for more information and to book call 01628 796227.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Today's announcement that six post offices face closure in the Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough will spell difficulties and problems for thousands of residents – and the council is determined to continue its fight for the survival of these 'local lifelines'.

Post offices marked for closure are:

Maidenhead – Boyne Hill, Bridge Road, Cookham Road, Knowl Hill and Norfolk Park
Windsor – Springfield Road.

Cllr David Burbage, Windsor and Maidenhead council leader, said the scale of the proposed closures was completely unacceptable, particularly in areas where people would be faced with long journeys to get to the next nearest branch.

He said: "Post offices are a local lifeline and social hub for a large number of residents, especially vulnerable older people and parents with young families, many of them without their own transport or easy access to alternative locations. This list of closures is hard to comprehend, given the social cohesion and community benefits that post offices supply – the council will be fighting these closures along with affected residents and our local MPs."

Cllr Burbage said that if local Windsor and Maidenhead post offices were considered to be unviable, the government must find ways of allowing them to increase their services to attract more customers.

He added: "Currently local post offices are not allowed to offer a full range of counter services – for example car tax and passport services. Increasing their services is certainly one way of attracting and retaining much-needed customers. Unfortunately, the government is taking an axe to the problem rather than exploring positive ways of building on existing business and goodwill."

Cllr Burbage also maintained that councils and local communities should have been widely consulted prior to the announcement about the planned cuts. The six-week consultation period at the end of the whole process simply did not allow enough time for the views of residents to be properly appreciated and acted upon.

A motion passed unanimously by full council last August condemned the threatened loss of local post offices and the difficulties this would cause to many residents. It also expressed 'dismay' that councils and local communities would be the final consultees before closures were announced – and called on the Post Office and the government to reconsider proposals that would disadvantage many people.

The council is urging residents to make sure they take part in the consultation, which ends on March 10. To get a copy of a consultation document visit www.postoffice.co.uk/networkchange or write to Post Office Ltd at Freepost Consultation (no stamp required) or email consultation@postoffice.co.uk

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

The Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough has underlined its determination to protect the 'precious' Green Belt against housing and office development – despite being forced by the government to carry out a review of its contribution to national Green Belt purposes.

Cllr Derek Wilson, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead planning and housing, said: "More than 80% of our borough is Green Belt, and exhaustive consultation with local people tells us that they don't want it turned into development sites. The council has listened to our residents and we have been extremely successful in meeting house building targets in existing urban areas – but now we have been instructed by the planning inspectorate to carry out a review of the Green Belt."

But Cllr Wilson gave his assurance that there would be widespread consultation with the Windsor and Maidenhead community as part of the review and there would be easily-accessible ways for people to take part.

The cross-party message from meetings of both cabinet and the planning and environment overview and scrutiny panel (Thursday January 24) was that the Green Belt review would be carried out with the greatest reluctance and would:

* be done as part of a wider exercise which will identify development opportunities in existing urban settlements and brownfield sites, and
* take into account elements that are important to the local community, over and above the criteria demanded by national planning policy.

Members also unanimously agreed to throw their weight behind national organisations, such as the National Trust, in their fight to protect and preserve the Green Belt.

It was last September that the Windsor and Maidenhead council was dealt what Cllr Wilson described as a 'bitter blow' when a report from the planning inspectorate rejected six of the 26 policies in the borough's draft core strategy of the Local Development Framework (LDF). All of the policies judged to be 'unsound' related to how the council planned to fit future housing and employment opportunities into existing urban areas. The inspector's view was that adhering to existing settlement boundaries was not in the best interests of the local community.

Cllr Wilson said: "We are appalled that the government, through the planning inspectorate, can ride roughshod over the very clear views of 80% of Royal Borough residents who want to protect our precious Green Belt. We have fought very hard against this review but have been told we have no choice."

Following the inspector's report, Cllr Wilson wrote to Hazel Blears, secretary of state for communities and local government, to express the council's disappointment and ask for the recommendations to be changed. However, she forwarded his letter to the Government Office of the South East who replied that the council could only check the report for factual accuracy, not change the inspector's recommendations.

Cllr David Hilton, Windsor and Maidenhead council deputy leader, said: "There is a general presumption against inappropriate development in the Green Belt. Such development should not be approved except in very special circumstances. Now there is a complete about-face and the planning inspectorate, driven by government, says that building in the Green Belt is a very special circumstance in itself.

"Government refuses to formally implement this policy change and shamefully allows this contradiction to exist in the hope that councils like the Royal Borough take the blame should any Green Belt ever be released."

The council's planning policy team will now work on details of how the review will be carried out. There will be community-wide publicity to flag up the consultation and how residents can take part.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

The Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough is once again supporting a nationwide campaign which urges young motorists to 'take responsibility when driving'.

The hard-hitting Windsor and Maidenhead message of this year's For My Girlfriend young driver campaign – designed to make young drivers aware of the potentially fatal consequences of driving too fast - is being spelled out on posters and mock Valentine's cards being distributed through schools, pubs and clubs in the run-up to Valentine's Day on February 14.

One mock Valentine card opens to reveal a photo of a girl in a body bag with the headline: 'The worst way for a relationship to end?' Another shows a team of firefighters and paramedics trying to free a girl from a crashed car with the headline: 'If you don't want to see this many blokes around your girl, take responsibility when driving'.

The award-winning campaign – now in its fifth year – is run jointly with other local authorities in the Thames Valley to help reduce road death and injury among young people.

Cllr Colin Rayner, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead highways and transport, said: "It is particularly difficult to get road safety messages across successfully to young drivers, which is why the images in this campaign are so very striking – even shocking.

"But they are designed to have an impact – to make young motorists stop and think about the potentially terrible consequences of driving too fast, and to even help save lives.

"The romance associated with Valentine's Day is the perfect time to remind young male drivers to take special care of their female passengers. It's a fact that more young females aged 17 to 19 years old are killed or seriously injured while travelling as passengers in cars rather than as drivers. Please go carefully – it is a dangerous world out there. I have lost too many friends to road crashes.

"Research has also shown that the outcome young drivers dread most is killing or maiming someone they are close to who is travelling in the car with them – and the For My Girlfriend campaign forces young motorists to think about this awful prospect."

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

From April 1 Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough residents aged over 60 and those under 60 with a disability will be eligible for a free bus pass to enable them to travel on any local bus service in England.

The new national bus pass – common to all local authorities in England – will replace the existing bus passes which are based upon the Royal Borough Advantage Cards. Residents will, however, be able to continue using their Advantage Card for discounts at local shops and attractions.

New bus passes will be issued automatically by post to current bus pass holders during March, well in advance of the start of the new scheme.

The proposal being put to cabinet on February 21 is that concessionary travel will continue to be free AT ANY TIME throughout the Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough – even though times of travel in other local authorities may be restricted to the government minimum of 9.30am to 11pm Monday to Friday, and all day at weekends and bank holidays. Residents intending to travel in other boroughs using their new bus pass should contact the relevant local authority to find out the travel terms in their areas.

The new bus passes do not apply to Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland, nor to long distance coach services.

Cllr John Story, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead adult services, said: "This is really great news for our older residents and people who are registered disabled as it extends their free bus travelling horizons beyond Windsor and Maidenhead to services throughout England.

"The new bus passes will all be in the same format so they will be instantly recognisable. The transition to the new cards couldn't be easier – if you are already using a bus pass on your Advantage Card your new card will automatically be posted to you – and you can still enjoy all the benefits of your existing Advantage Card for the usual discounts at many local businesses and attractions.

"This is a new opportunity for more people to enjoy the delights of other parts of the country for free, and I hope everyone eligible will take advantage of it."

Anyone who is eligible for a bus pass between now and April 1 should apply at one of the existing issuing sites - contact the helpline 01628 683806 for details or email customer.services@rbwm.gov.uk.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

It's all change in April to the way in which Windsor and Maidenhead housing benefit allowance for private tenants is calculated and paid.

The new local housing allowance (LHA) scheme applies to anyone who makes a new claim at a privately rented address, or has a break in their claim, after April 6. People in private rented accommodation in receipt of housing benefit who have no change in their circumstances will remain on the existing scheme.

Currently claimants can choose to have their benefit paid to themselves or their landlord. The new arrangements mean LHA will always be paid to the tenant unless they are vulnerable or unable to manage their own financial affairs.

At present rent levels are assessed on each individual property by a rent officer. From April 7 each local authority area will be divided into broad rental market areas. LHA rates based on the number of rooms within a property will then be set for each broad rental market area. These rates will then be published by the local authority so that landlords and prospective LHA customers can be clear about the amount of rent that LHA will cover.

Cllr David Hilton, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead finance, said: "Local housing allowance is a simpler way of calculating and administering housing benefit and as such is to be welcomed. It also allows individuals to take responsibility for their own rent payments."

Information is also available from the borough's benefits section by calling 01628 796036, faxing 01628 685716, emailing benefits@rbwm.gov.uk, writing to Royal Borough of Windsor & Maidenhead, PO Box 6464, Maidenhead, SL6 1XP, or visiting the customer service centres at Town Hall, St Ives Road, Maidenhead and York House, Sheet Street, Windsor.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Eton residents can look forward to "walking on the safer side" following Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough approval for a series of road safety measures for the town.

The programme is being co-ordinated by the Windsor and Maidenhead borough's road safety team in partnership with the police and Eton Town Council. Many of the measures are being introduced as the result of a petition of 172 signatures approved by cabinet in December and originally submitted by Cllr Liam Maxwell to council in September.

The safety measures – scheduled for completion in the coming months - feature:

· four speed tables to replace the existing speed hump in Eton High Street to help reduce excessive speeding. The first two tables will be installed during the February half-term (February 18 – 22), with the next two during spring and summer.
· the stop line on the southbound carriageway of Slough Road will be moved back to enable long vehicles to turn left from Keates Lane and right into Keates Lane to improve safety for pedestrians and motorists.
· Improved traffic measures for Pococks Lane include:

1) the proposed installation of a pedestrian crossing to create a safe off-road route for pedestrians and cyclists from Eton Town to the Thames Valley Athletics Centre and then to Datchet
2) changes to the layout of Slough Road/Pococks Lane roundabout to reduce accidents, particularly involving cyclists (for completion by March 2008)
3) double white lines along Pococks Lane to deter overtaking (for completion in February)
4) new road surface and signs to alert motorists to the speed limit on the approach to Datchet
5) moving several traffic signs to more practical locations (to be completed in February).

A feasibility study will also be conducted into proposals for a cycle route between Slough and Eton along the Slough Road footway, with the results of the study available in June 2008.

Cllr Colin Rayner, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead highways, transport and the environment, said: "We have listened to the voices of local residents and have responded positively to concerns.

"We have been very concerned about the number of accidents in Pococks Lane and we hope these new measures will have a positive impact.

"I have seen a number of serious accidents on this particular road, and I would like to remind drivers that country lanes should be treated with more respect and care. We should all drive accordingly and slow down on country lanes, as there might be a horse or a young family crossing the road which you might not be able to see easily.

"We are confident that these new measures will significantly improve safety for pedestrians and motorists in Eton without causing disruption in the area."

Windsor and Maidenhead Cllr Liam Maxwell, ward councillor for Eton, said: "I am delighted that by working with local partners we have been able to introduce these safety schemes within current budgetary limits."

For further information about these schemes contact Ben Smith, group manager, highways services, on 01628 796147.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Maidenhead councillors are once again opening the doors to local residents with their regular Saturday surgery on Saturday February 2.

The council's mobile facility will be outside the NatWest Bank, High Street, Maidenhead between 10am and 12 noon for the open session.

No appointment is necessary so residents can just drop in and meet councillors to discuss local issues, air their views or ask for help and advice. Arrangements can be made for confidential interviews during the morning, if requested.

The next Maidenhead surgery will be held between 10am and 12 noon on Saturday March 29.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

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

The scripture states that a ‘man’s gift makes room for him’, so with this truth, Kelechi “DJ K” Amadi used his love for the Gospel to spread the message of hope, redemption and peace to a lost generation via his dee-jaying and marketing skills.

Having given his life to Christ in 1998, DJ K was keen to share his new faith with his peers, and as an avid music fan, the Spirit led him to discover alternative, uplifting and positive urban / street Gospel styles.

Thus in June 2002, he purchased his first DJ decks, and by that summer; he had the opportunity to minister in music at a friend’s birthday party. Inspired by fashion, the trends of the streets and the power of brands, it was inevitable that the concepts and theories that underpin design and marketing became the vehicle by which Kelechi established an award winning business amadidesign.

Set up in 1999, his clients range from the private, public, community and charity sector, to Christian churches and organisations. Utilising his graphic, web and business acumen, Kelechi applied his knowledge to packaging and selling the Good News through Gospel music, to an audience that could relate to today’s more urban, Hip Hop culture.

This led to the development and launch of ‘Throw Ya Hands Up (TYHU)’ (in December 2002), North London’s longest running Gospel youth event. Reputable artists such as FourKornez, Green Jade, Prodigal Son, GKReal and Ekklesia have performed to crowds of over 300 young people.

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

Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Maidenhead: 3 February - 9 February 2008
Altwood Road
Maidenhead
SL6 4PF
01628 788997

3rd February in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 10:00 am
1157 present Piece 24
* Workshops and other events
* 10:00 am
Traditions Revisited
* 1:30 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group D
* 4:00 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group E

4th February in Maidenhead

No events planned

5th February in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 8:00 pm
A Crude Awakening (PG)
* Workshops and other events
* 10:00 am
Chi-Kung
* 10:30 am
Introduction to Indian Miniature Painting
* 2:00 pm
Traditions Revisited
* 4:30 pm
Bollywood Dance
* 5:45 pm
Norden Exposure Youth Dance
* 7:00 pm
Norden Exposure Academy

6th February in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 10:30 am
Feltmaking
* 7:30 pm
Houdini's Suitcase
* Workshops and other events
* 10:30 am
Make Silver Jewellery
* 2:00 pm
Traditions Revisited
* 2:30 pm
Thames Valley Tai Chi
* 4:15 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group A
* 5:30 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group B
* 6:45 pm
Norden Lights Academy

7th February in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 7:30 pm
Endellion String Quartet
* Workshops and other events
* 2:00 pm
Traditions Revisited
* 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
* 7:30 pm
Indian Head Massage
* 7:30 pm
Giddha Dance

8th February in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 8:00 pm
The Michael Roach Band
* Workshops and other events
* 10:00 am
Rub Stroke and Scratch
* 11:00 am
Fun at the Farm
* 2:00 pm
Traditions Revisited
* 4:30 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group G
* 7:00 pm
Life Drawing

9th February in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 2:30 pm
Comedy Club 4 Kids
* 8:00 pm
Eastern Promises (18)
* Workshops and other events
* 9:30 am
Kathak Advanced Dance
* 10:00 am
Traditions Revisited
* 10:30 am
Kathak Intermediate Dance
* 11:30 am
Kathak Beginner Dance
* 1:30 pm
Lifemusic – Connecting to Time, Discover your musical self!

The Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough is looking to involve the public more effectively in shaping health and social services with the launch of a local involvement network (LINk).

LINk – which comes into effect on April 1 – is a network of individuals, voluntary groups, societies and communities who want to make care services better in the borough.

LINks provide a flexible way for Windsor and Maidenhead residents and communities to engage with health and social care organisations, and replace patient and public involvement forums which were a first step in getting more people involved in the provision of health services.

They have been designed by the Department of Health to provide a stronger voice for local people in the planning, design or redesign, commissioning, and provision of health and social care services in their area.

Cllr John Story, lead member for adult services, said: "While the council will provide the administrative structure and government the funding, LINk will be independent of the council and the NHS.

"I would strongly encourage interested parties to get involved. It is their opportunity to have a real influence on how care services – including mental health, maternity, hospital services and care at home – are planned, developed and managed. They will also be able to give their views through service user surveys and questionnaires."

An information evening will take place at the Town Hall, St Ives Road, Maidenhead, on Wednesday January 30 at 6.30pm. Light refreshments will be available. Places can be booked by calling Christine Perkin on 01628 683709 or by emailing christine.perkin@rbwm.gov.uk

Further information can also be found at www.dh.gov.uk/patientpublicinvolvement

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Local residents look set to benefit from the Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough's lowest ever council tax rise of 2.4%.

At the same time the quality of frontline services will be maintained and there will be more money for priority services like community safety, roads and recycling.

The proposed Windsor and Maidenhead increase for 2008/09 – the lowest since the borough became a unitary authority in 1998 – should also leave older people and other vulnerable residents better off, since pensions and state benefits are expected to rise by 3.9%. ( The council has adopted the 2007 September Retail Price Index rate of 3.9% as its measure of inflation, bringing it into line with most state benefits. )

Cllr David Hilton, lead member for finance, said: "I am pleased to say that, taking inflation into account, this is a real-terms reduction and will mean a better deal for many residents.

"We have achieved this low increase in council tax by a continuous programme of improvement, keeping a close watch on how the council spends its money and finding better and cheaper ways of buying goods and services. A total of £1 million is being shaved off the budget by streamlining processes to create a more effective organisation, using money more effectively and by joining with other authorities to get cheaper prices from suppliers and contractors."

As well as the low 2.4% council tax increase, the new budget includes:

* funding of £93,000 for two new community wardens and joint funding for two more police community service officers
* a scheme to provide 5,000 free compost bins to help local people recycle even more of their household waste at a capital cost of approx £55,000
* 25% extra for improving borough roads (an additional £250,000 for the capital programme).

Cllr Hilton added: "Over the past few months we have made significant improvements to services the public have told us are their priorities, such as better planning enforcement and free on-street parking in Windsor for Advantage Card holders, and we are working with other groups and organisations to help create a workable plan for revitalising Maidenhead. If approved by council, the new budget gives us a strong base to continue our plans for service improvements that will benefit all our residents."

If the budget proposals get Windsor and Maidenhead council go-ahead, the Royal Borough's new Band D council tax rate for 2008/09 will be £1,017.88 – an increase of £23.90 (46 pence per week) over 2007/08 but £105 below the anticipated average Band D rate for unitary councils in England.

The budget proposals will be discussed by the corporate services overview and scrutiny committee on Monday January 28 before going to cabinet on Thursday February 7 and for final decision to full council on Tuesday February 26.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

While the Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough has been applauded for its determination to save money, an independent panel has told the council that it should increase the 'frugal' allowances it pays to its elected members.

The independent remuneration panel report says that councillors' allowances have hardly changed for seven years, despite previous recommendations for increases.

While it applauds the Windsor and Maidenhead council's wish to be frugal and to exercise self-restraint, the panel report says that members' allowances are now so low, especially in comparison with other public bodies, that they are well below the market rate.

Recommending increases for back bench councillors as well as those with particular offices and special responsibilities, the panel stresses the importance of attracting more members of the community to become councillors in the future.

The report says: "The panel feels that if barriers to public service are to be minimised in the borough then the current level of allowances has to increase by more than a token amount."

Cllr David Hilton, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead finance, said: "The council has statutory responsibility for setting its own allowances and this role must be carried out independently of the elected members. That's why we commission an independent panel, with an independent advisor, to carry out a review every few years. The council as a whole then decides whether or not to accept the panel's recommendations."

The independent report, which will go to full council for decision on Tuesday January 29, recommends that the basic allowance for all councillors should be £7,180 (currently £3,843). Among the special responsibility allowances recommended are: council leader – £18,596 (£12,490); deputy leader – £11,158 (£9,608); cabinet members – £10,228 (£7,686) and opposition group leader – £6,509 (£5,765).

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough residents are being urged not to buy from doorstep fish traders selling poor quality and extortionately priced produce.

Windsor and Maidenhead Trading standards officers have received a number of complaints about door-to-door sellers working in the area, with one resident reporting that the trader used bullying tactics to demand £180 in return for fish he purchased.

Similar problems have been reported to other local councils, with one complainant being charged £500 for 38 packs of fish which had been purchased by the trader for between £1.50 and £2 each. Samples from other authorities have revealed that in some instances the variety of fish as stated by the seller has not been correct, in particular sea trout, wild salmon and monkfish.

Steve Johnson, trading standards manager, said: "We are urging residents to be extremely cautious if they are approached by any door-to-door traders they do not know.

"Unscrupulous salespeople often adopt high pressure selling techniques to sell overpriced produce from unrefrigerated vans and intimidate residents until they feel they have to pay to get rid of them. Our advice is not to enter into conversation with these people, simply tell them you are not interested, close the door and call trading standards on 01628 683802."

Cllr Colin Rayner, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead trading standards, highways, transport and environment, said: "If you have any concerns whatsoever about a trader who comes to your door, do not let them in. If you are in doubt, keep them out!

"If you want to buy fish, go to a fishmonger or supermarket where you can be sure of its quality. Or, buy from one of the well-known local fishmongers working from correctly fitted-out vans - and if you are in any doubt, ask for their business cards and to see their Royal Borough Street Trading Consent."

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough residents and visitors are being invited to have their say on parks and open spaces across the borough.

The quality, quantity and accessibility of sport facilities, open spaces and recreation areas is currently undergoing a review to ensure they meet the needs of residents now and in the future.

PMP, the independent sport and leisure consultancy carrying out the review, is inviting residents and those who work or visit the borough to five drop-in sessions where they can give feedback about open spaces in the area and suggest improvements.

Cllr Jesse Grey, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead community safety, leisure and culture, said: "This is your opportunity to get involved and shape the future of the recreation facilities and open spaces in the Royal Borough.

"The review is a statutory planning requirement but we are pleased that independent experts will be assessing our open spaces and we hope as many people as possible will come forward and feed back their thoughts during the neighbourhood drop-in sessions."

The sessions will be held at the following times:

Thursday January 24:
Nicholsons Shopping Centre, Maidenhead - 11am to 1pm
Cookham Library, High Road, Cookham Rise - 3pm to 5pm

Friday January 25:
Windsor Royal Shopping Centre (concourse), Windsor - 10am to 12noon
Waitrose, London Road, Sunningdale - 12.30pm to 2.30pm
Datchet Library, Montagu House, 8 Horton Road, Datchet - 3pm to 5pm

For more details about the review, contact Alex Burrows at PMP on 020 7767 3422 or email rbwmopenspaces@pmpconsult.com

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Amateur bird-watchers can learn all about the winter birds found at Windsor and Maidenhead Braywick Nature Reserve on a walk on Saturday January 26 from 10am to 12noon.

The walk, organised by the Royal Windsor and MaidenheadBorough's countryside rangers and East Berkshire RSPB, coincides with the RSPB's Big Garden Birdwatch annual survey. Over the weekend of January 26 and 27 members of the public are being urged to identify and count the birds that visit their garden in any chosen hour to help determine which species are thriving and which are decreasing in numbers.

To help them identify various birds, participants in the Braywick event are asked to bring along binoculars if they have them. They should also wear suitable footwear, especially if the ground is wet.

Walkers should meet in the Braywick car park, Hibbert Road, just before 10am. There is no charge but donations are welcome.

For further information call 01628 777440.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

The Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough has announced the selection of Ian Trenholm as its proposed new chief executive.

Ian is currently strategic director – business transformation and customer services at Buckinghamshire County Council.

He was selected following a rigorous interview process last week and his appointment will be recommended to a special meeting of full council on Tuesday 29 January.

Cllr David Burbage, Windsor and Maidenhead council leader, said: " Ian has an excellent track record in customer service, performance management and leadership both here and abroad and in both the public and private sectors. If council approves his appointment we look forward to welcoming him to the Royal Borough in the near future.

"Those involved in the interview process are confident that his experience in the private and public sectors will be of great benefit to the council as we move forward with our plans to further develop as a modern, efficient and customer-focused organisation."

A graduate of the University of London, Ian started his career with the Royal Hong Kong Police Service and then moved to Surrey Police before working in the private sector. He has been with Buckinghamshire County Council since 2003, leading a range of change programmes to deliver improved services for residents alongside significant cost savings.

Ian said: "I am really pleased to be joining Cllr David Burbage and his team at the Royal Borough. I have been very impressed by the both the elected members and the council officers I have met so far. I know everyone at the council has a great deal of ambition and I look forward to the challenge of taking the council to the next level of performance, serving the residents and businesses of Windsor and Maidenhead."

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

The Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough is geared up for flooding should a problem arise.

At present there are two sections of the River Thames within the borough on the Environment Agency's Flood Watch:

· From Hurley Lock to Boulters Lock at Maidenhead, including Hurley, Bisham, Marlow, Cookham Dean, Bourne End and Cookham
· From Victoria Bridge, Windsor, to Bell Weir Lock, including Datchet, Old Windsor and Wraysbury.

Cllr Colin Rayner, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead highways, transport and environment, said: "We would like to reassure residents that, while the EA does not anticipate any flooding of residential properties, the borough is prepared for action. Please can you tell your friends and neighbours about the flood watch and listen to your local radio for flood warnings.

"Please have a look at our website for regular updates.

"We remain in regular contact with the EA and will continue to keep a close eye on the situation using CCTV which is monitored 24 hours a day, seven days a week. We are also keeping crews on standby."

Cllr Rayner added: "We would advise people to drive carefully in areas where there is standing water."

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Windsor and Maidenhead Residents can firm up their new year's resolutions to get into shape at a special Get Fit Feel Good exhibition in Maidenhead town centre.

Maidenhead Town Partnership is presenting the exhibition, in Queens Square, Nicholsons Shopping Centre, on Friday and Saturday January 25 and 26.

Visitors can turn up any time over the two days to find out what local gyms have to offer, have their blood pressure taken and try their luck in a competition.

Exhibitors include David Lloyd, the Magnet Leisure Centre, Laroche Gym and Nutrimetics nutritional cosmetics.

Nutrimetics will be running a 'New Year... the New You' competition with a pamper experience up for grabs. The competition is £1 a go with a prize every time and all monies going to Thames HospiceCare.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Maidenhead: 27 January - 2 February 2008
Altwood Road
Maidenhead
SL6 4PF
01628 788997

27th January in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 11:45 am
Lunchtime Concert for Mozart's Birthday
* 3:00 pm
Brick Lane (15)
* 7:30 pm
Brick Lane (15)
* Workshops and other events
* 10:00 am
CHROMA
* 1:30 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group D
* 4:00 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group E

28th January in Maidenhead

No events planned

29th January in Maidenhead

* Workshops and other events
* 10:00 am
Chi-Kung
* 10:30 am
Introduction to Indian Miniature Painting
* 2:00 pm
CHROMA
* 4:30 pm
Bollywood Dance
* 5:45 pm
Norden Exposure Youth Dance
* 7:00 pm
Norden Exposure Academy

30th January in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 10:30 am
Feltmaking
* Workshops and other events
* 10:30 am
Make Silver Jewellery
* 2:00 pm
Traditions Revisited
* 2:30 pm
Thames Valley Tai Chi
* 4:15 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group A
* 5:30 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group B
* 6:45 pm
Norden Lights Academy

31st January in Maidenhead

* Workshops and other events
* 9:00 am
Creative Writing: Making Yourself Heard
* 2:00 pm
Traditions Revisited
* 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
* 7:30 pm
Giddha Dance
* 7:30 pm
Indian Head Massage

1st February in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 10:00 am
1157 present Piece 24
* Workshops and other events
* 10:00 am
Rub Stroke and Scratch
* 11:00 am
Fun at the Farm
* 2:00 pm
Traditions Revisited
* 4:30 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group G
* 7:00 pm
Life Drawing

2nd February in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 7:45 pm
Things that can't be said
* Workshops and other events
* 9:30 am
Kathak Advanced Dance
* 10:00 am
Traditions Revisited
* 10:30 am
Kathak Intermediate Dance
* 11:30 am
Kathak Beginner Dance

The search is on for the Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough's fifth MYP (Member of Youth Parliament) to represent the views of young people at national level.

Young people aged between 11 and 18 are once again being urged to think about standing for election or to nominate potential candidates for the role - and this year's campaign trail kicks off with an information evening at Castle Hill Youth Centre in High Town Road, Maidenhead, on Wednesday February 6 from 5 – 7pm.

Windsor and Maidenhead Council youth workers will outline the roles and responsibilities of the MYP and answer questions, after which nominees will be asked to write their election manifestos.

Voting will take place from March 3 to 11 at schools and youth and community centres across the borough* with the winner announced at a special presentation evening in the Town Hall later in the spring.

The successful candidate will follow in the footsteps of current MYP Gemma Thorogood to represent the views of the borough's young people at the National Youth Parliament conferences.

He or she will help youth workers to set up local satellite youth forums to feed ideas and opinions into the borough youth forum. The aim is to reflect the views of as many young people as possible in the future provision of services they need and use.

Cllr Eileen Quick, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead children's services, said: "We have been most fortunate in having four very committed young people to fill the role of MYP in recent years – and I am sure this time around will be no exception.

"It is important that our young people have the opportunity to have their voices heard, and that is what the role of the MYP achieves so successfully. I would like to encourage as many young people as possible to get involved in the forthcoming elections and help to ensure that their views and opinions are represented and listened to at national as well as local level."

Jim Gould, corporate director of learning and care, said: "We are committed to ensuring that all children and young people are consulted fully about the services that are being provided for them, and the MYP can play a major role in championing the voices of our teenagers about what services they need."

For further information about the elections and the role of the MYP, contact Danny Gomm, youth participation co-ordinator, on 01628 510289.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

It will be fun and action all the way at the Maidenhead Magnet Leisure Centre's latest open day this Saturday (January 19).

The day kicks off with a special bodypump masterclass in the refurbished and extended Bodyzone Studio which replaces the old Lane 9 studio on the first floor.

The class – introduced by popular demand from Maidenhead leisure centre users - marks the official opening of the new studio and the launch of the centre's bigger and better studio timetable.

Free taster sessions in a wide range of activities will also run from 10am to 2pm in the main hall – with something for everyone, including arts and crafts, painting, bouncy castles, trampolining, Beat the Goalie and much more. Leisure centre staff will be on hand to answer questions.

Cllr Jesse Grey, lead member for leisure and culture, said: "The Magnet's open days are always popular – last summer more than 1,000 adults and children visited the Sportsbug open sessions to promote the centre's summer activities.

"Saturday's event will showcase the refurbished Bodyzone studio as well as highlight the wide range of activities on offer at the centre. I hope as many people as possible will take advantage of this great opportunity to see the facilities for themselves."

For further information about the open day contact Lee Ovens, sports development officer, on 01628 639955.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough trading standards has successfully prosecuted a national television channel for making false claims and descriptions about products sold through its TV advertising.

At Maidenhead magistrates court on Friday (January 11), The Jewellery Channel was fined a total of £3,261.36 (including costs of £1,661.36) after pleading guilty to a total of 16 offences under the Trade Descriptions Act – eight for applying false trade descriptions and eight of supplying goods to which false trade descriptions had been applied.

The hearing followed a complaint to trading standards in November 2006 by a South Ascot resident who had bought jewellery described as having 'pink topaz' stones after seeing the goods advertised on The Jewellery Channel.

The court heard that a local jeweller subsequently informed her that the 'pink topaz' stones were in fact colourless topaz sprayed pink. This was confirmed by a gemmologist's examination which estimated the value of the items as between 1.5% and 5% of the value of genuine pink topaz.

The company admitted when interviewed that it was aware that the stones were 'coated' pink topaz, worth a fraction of the value of natural stones but stressed that every effort had been made to rectify the errors, including suspending the sale of topaz and reviewing its quality control procedures.

Magistrates said the company had misrepresented the goods sold, with the false description repeated on numerous occasions in a variety of media – a misrepresentation which had led to the deception of the public.

They did, however, accept the company's mitigation that it had stopped sales and co-operated with trading standards during the investigation, had reviewed and amended descriptions of all its products and had pleaded guilty at the first opportunity.

Cllr Colin Rayner, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead trading standards, said: "It is easy to see how viewers can be attracted to buying items they see advertised on television, but we would always urge caution and encourage buyers to make sure they keep receipts and guarantees that accompany the goods.

"In this case the false descriptions were also repeated on receipts and guarantee cards and it was only when the buyer had some of the items re-sized by a local jeweller that the deception came to light.

"I would like to thank our trading standards officers for bringing this case to court and for their hard work in helping to achieve a successful outcome. Officers are always happy to advise anyone considering similar purchases – so please call trading standards on 01628 683802 if you need assistance."

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Home Park in Windsor and Kidwells Park in Maidenhead have become the first of six parks in the borough to apply for the prestigious Green Flag status.

Clewer Memorial Park in Windsor and Maidenhead's Braywick Park will be aiming to follow suit and apply for the national, independent standard for parks and green spaces in 2009 and Desborough Park and Oaken Grove, both in Maidenhead, in 2010.

Cllr Jesse Grey, lead member for lWindsor and Maidenhead eisure and culture, said: "In the borough we have an outstanding collection of 52 parks and open spaces attracting more than six million visits per year. Our parks have a customer satisfaction rating of 82% in the Audit Commission's league tables.

"While they are popular and offer a range of attractions for all ages, we are continually striving for the highest standards and the best possible experience for visitors, and the Green Flag programme helps us focus on making the right improvements.

"We have reached this point thanks to the efforts of our dedicated leisure services team, with expertise in everything from outdoor facilities to play area design and from trees to health and safety, who have worked towards this goal over the past 18 months."

Judging will take place in May or early June and results announced at the end of July. If they succeed, Home Park and Kidwells will join an exclusive band of sites across the country achieving Green Flag status.

Last year just 554 parks and open spaces nationwide earned the coveted award which is awarded for high standards in a range of areas including overall park management, safety, cleanliness and maintenance, sustainability, conservation and heritage, promotion of healthy living and community involvement.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Local Windsor and Maidenhead residents are being given an update on the proposed move of Holyport Manor Special School to the Cox Green School site – and can give their opinions of the proposals.

A special pre-planning public consultation session will be held on Tuesday January 22 from 3.30pm until 7.30pm at Cox Green Library, Highfield Lane, Maidenhead.

Members of the public are welcome to turn up at any time during the session to view the drawings and information, talk to representatives from the council's education and highways departments and the architects, ask questions and offer comments.

Cllr Eileen Quick, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead children's services, said: "Since the public consultation meetings held at Cox Green and Holyport Manor schools in January 2007, a considerable amount of work has taken place to design the new school in such a way that it meets its many objectives and in as sympathetic a way as possible.

"We now have a design we feel will work, and we would like to invite residents along on January 22 to see the drawings and offer comments before a planning application is submitted. There will of course be a consultation period as part of the formal planning process."

Leaflets were delivered on Monday January 14 to houses backing on to the Cox Green site and surrounding roads advising occupants of the consultation session.

Any queries about the consultation session can be made by emailing holyportmanorconsultation@rbwm.gov.uk or by calling 01628 796674.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Children at Furze Platt Infant School in Maidenhead are leading the way in using information and communications technology (ICT) to enhance their work.

Following an extensive external assessment, the school in Oaken Grove has become the first school in the Windsor and Maidenhead borough to be awarded the prestigious ICT Mark by the British Education Communications and Technology Agency (Becta), the government-funded body responsible for promoting the use of ICT in Britain's schools and colleges.

The award recognises the school's success in developing the strategic use of ICT in both administration and across the curriculum and offers parents proof that their children are attending a school at the forefront of modern technology.

Cllr Eileen Quick, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead children's services, said: "The Royal Borough is determined that all local children should have the best opportunity to excel in the jobs market of the future. Furze Platt Infant should be congratulated on this wonderful achievement. This demonstrates the excellent ICT management and teaching that is taking place in local schools."

Barbara Wilkinson, ICT subject leader at Furze Platt Infant, said: "Since 1997 when Furze Platt Infant was awarded the status of Beacon School – a leading-edge school – we have supported many schools locally and nationally with the development of computer education. We were one of the first schools in the borough to use interactive whiteboards in every classroom and were instrumental in spreading the word about the impact of this resource on teaching and learning.

"ICT is at the core of everything that happens in the school, which is regarded by Becta as an 'e-confident school' where the use of ICT is embedded into every process."

Neil McLean, executive director for educational practice at Becta, said: "Furze Platt Infant School thoroughly deserves the accolade of an ICT mark. The school clearly demonstrates how important it is to take a holistic approach to using ICT in schools and its investment in new technology has contributed to substantial improvements in learning."

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Older Windsor and Maidenhead residents and adults with disabilities are reminded that they can find out about the wide range of services available to them in a guide produced by the Royal Borough.

The Healthier Living & Well Being Guide for Older People and Adults with Disabilities is a quick reference guide providing information on topics including adult social care, finance, health, voluntary organisations and support groups. It also includes details of services such as education, employment, heating, health care, carers, housing, leisure and transport.

Cllr John Story, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead adult services, said: "Winter can be a difficult time for vulnerable adults struggling to stay warm, pay heating bills, keep nourished or get about.

"While there are many services available to help older people and adults with disabilities, the width and complexity of the range means it is often difficult to know what is available. This easily accessible guide is useful to anyone wanting to find out about services concerning their well-being and health."

The guide was written in conjunction with Berkshire East Primary Care Trust and local voluntary agencies, and supported by the Tick Tock Project, a European-funded Equal project supported by the Learning & Skills Council Berkshire.

The guide can be found online at www.rbwm.gov.uk/web/social_publications_adult-services.htm or by emailing access.services@rbwm.gov.uk. Copies are also available at York House, Sheet Street, Windsor and at the Town Hall reception, St Ives Road, Maidenhead, or by calling 01628 683744.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Older residents in Maidenhead can now get more information about the benefits available to them thanks to a new scheme launched by the council and Age Concern Slough and Berkshire East (ACSABE).

A member of staff from Age Concern is available every Tuesday from 10am to 12noon at Maidenhead Town Hall, St Ives Road, Maidenhead, to give advice and information on welfare benefits and issues affecting older people. This new service follows the success of similar information and advice sessions launched in Windsor a couple of years ago*.

Benefits totalling £4billion are unclaimed in the UK every year and this new information service will ensure Royal Borough residents are aware of the benefits they can claim, such as attendance allowance, disability living allowance, carers' allowance and winter fuel payments. Advice is also available on housing and council tax benefits and pension credit.

Cllr John Story, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead adult services, said: "We are delighted to team up with Age Concern to offer this service to our residents and we hope as many people as possible will take advantage of the advice and expertise available."

Tracey Morgan, chief executive of ACSABE, said: "A high proportion of the population in Maidenhead are older people and many of these live alone, so there is a huge need for specialised information and advice on a range of issues associated with growing older.

"With our ten years' experience of running dedicated information and advice services and thanks to the fantastic support of the Royal Borough, I am delighted that ACSABE will now be able to deliver this crucial service for the benefit of older residents, to improve quality of life through increased knowledge and benefit take-up."

The service is provided in confidence and is free. Anyone over the age of 50 or any resident who has a concern for an older family member or friend can drop in at the Town Hall during the information session or arrange a confidential meeting with Age Concern on 01753 822890.

For further information about the service in Windsor, contact Age Concern Slough and Berkshire East at 1 William Street, Slough, Berkshire, SL1 1XX, or call 01753 822890.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Maidenhead: 20 January - 26 January 2008
Altwood Road
Maidenhead
SL6 4PF
01628 788997

20th January in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 3:00 pm
Sleuth (15)
* 7:30 pm
Sleuth (15)
* Workshops and other events
* 1:30 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group D
* 2:00 pm
CHROMA
* 4:00 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group E

21st January in Maidenhead

No events planned

22nd January in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 8:00 pm
Sicko (12A)
* Workshops and other events
* 10:00 am
Chi-Kung
* 2:00 pm
CHROMA
* 4:30 pm
Bollywood Dance
* 5:45 pm
Norden Exposure Youth Dance
* 7:00 pm
Norden Exposure Academy

23rd January in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 10:30 am
Feltmaking
* 8:00 pm
Sicko (12A)
* Workshops and other events
* 10:30 am
Make Silver Jewellery
* 2:00 pm
CHROMA
* 2:30 pm
Thames Valley Tai Chi
* 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

24th January in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 8:00 pm
In the Shadow of the Moon (PG)
* Workshops and other events
* 2:00 pm
CHROMA
* 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
* 7:30 pm
Giddha Dance

25th January in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 8:00 pm
Tanna
* 8:00 pm
Pendulum Jazz Orchestra with Tina May and Nikki Iles
* Workshops and other events
* 10:00 am
Rub Stroke and Scratch
* 11:00 am
Fun at the Farm
* 2:00 pm
CHROMA
* 4:30 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group G
* 7:00 pm
Life Drawing

26th January in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 2:30 pm
Icicle Bicycle
* 7:45 pm
Cabaret Night with Paul L Martin and Supported by Amanda Brown
* 8:00 pm
Brick Lane (15)
* Workshops and other events
* 9:30 am
Kathak Advanced Dance
* 10:00 am
CHROMA
* 10:30 am
Kathak Intermediate Dance
* 11:30 am
Kathak Beginner Dance
* 2:30 pm
Alexander Technique workshop

School pupils in the Windsor and Maidenhead Royal Borough are continuing to improve their performance in the core subjects at GCSE, with results once again well above the national average.

Government tables published today (Thursday January 10) show that pupils have again increased their percentage success rate for five-plus passes at A*-C grade (including maths and English) – notching up 54.9% compared with 46.7% nationally.

The results - which show an above-average year-on-year increase from 49.8% in 2005 and 52.1% in 2006 - place the borough 16th out of 150 local authorities across the country.

Figures for Level 2 (five-plus A* - C grades, not necessarily including maths and English) also show above average results, with 64.7% success rate compared with 62% nationally.

Pupils achieving Level 1, five or more passes at A* to G grade, also score higher than the national average, with 93.8% compared with a national average of 91.7%.

Cllr Eileen Quick, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead children's services, said: "It is very encouraging to see GCSE results getting better every year, clearly reflecting the hard work and dedication showed by both the pupils and their teachers – and not forgetting the support provided at home by parents during the extremely stressful exam times.

"These are really excellent results for all our GCSE students, and demonstrate the council's ongoing commitment to providing the very best educational opportunities for every child to realise his or her full potential.

"However local schools are not complacent and we will all continue to strive to achieve the best for all our children."

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Windsor and Maidenhead Borough businesses looking for a New Year resolution-with-a-difference are being urged to set their sporting sights at Windsor and Eton's festive Mardi Gras celebrations.

With Shrove Tuesday earlier than usual and less than four weeks away on February 5, the gauntlet has been thrown down to local businesses to sign up their teams for the annual town centre pancake race.

The challenge to businesses is to add to last year's mix of competitors and encourage even more members of their staff to see who's batter – and continue the tradition of having a flipping good time while raising money for good causes.

Organised by the Windsor and Eton Town Partnership and sponsored by Windsor Royal Shopping and King Edward Court Shopping Centres, the proceeds from this year's race will once again go towards Thames HospiceCare and the Windsor and Eton Christmas Lights appeal.

Last year's winners, the Windsor Observer, are expected to be back for second helpings to defend their title against all comers.

Competitors will line up in teams of four to sprint the 50-metre course across Windsor and Eton Bridge, tossing their pancakes to a minimum height of three feet.

Traditional pancake-racing gear is the order of the day, with teams encouraged to dress up as 15th century housewives in skirt, apron, headscarf and frying pan – with prizes for the best-dressed team.

Cllr Colin Rayner, chairman of Windsor and Eton Town Partnership, said: "The pancake race is getting more and more popular every year, with teams really getting into the spirit of the occasion and dressing up in traditional clothes.

"Everyone has a really good time while raising money for two very worthwhile local causes. Events like this are very good for the town, and help to generate a real sense of community and belonging. So come on everyone, let's see some new faces at the starting line this year – with four weeks to go there's still plenty of time to get those 'flipping' skills perfected and enjoy taking part in a real fun event."

For further information, and for an application form, contact Paul Roach, Windsor and Eton Town manager on 01753 743921 or email windsor.tm@rbwm.gov.uk

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Let's make it bigger and batter than ever – that's the challenge to local Windsor and Maidenhead businesses with less than a month to go before Maidenhead's popular Shrove Tuesday pancake race on February 5.

With mince pies and yule log a thing of Christmas just past, foodies can now look ahead to the next seasonal culinary delight – the annual Windsor and Maidenhead challenge of the hotly-contested pancake race through the town centre.

In time-honoured fashion the New Year gauntlet has been thrown down by Maidenhead Town Partnership and Maidenhead Shopmobility to find the town's champion "flippers" – with businesses being urged to add to last year's mix of competitors and encourage even more members of their staff to join the race to see who's batter!

King Street will once again be the site of the popular showdown – with the heat on for Sainsbury's to repeat their winning ways of last year when they beat off stiff competition from a field of 20 teams to clinch first and third places.

Windsor and Maidenhead Teams of two will cover the 50-yard course along the pedestrianised stretch of King Street between the Odeon cinema and the David Lloyd gym, tossing their pancakes at least twice along the route or facing the penalty of going back to the start line!

Organised jointly by the Town Partnership and Shopmobility, there is a minimum donation of £5 from every two-person team, with proceeds going towards the cost of a new Shopmobility scooter.

Cllr David Burbage, chairman of Maidenhead Town Partnership, said: "Maidenhead's pancake race has become a real fixture on the town's busy events calendar, and competition is always high among teams taking part.

"I would like to encourage even more teams to sign up for the race and get in training for this fun, social event – and help to raise money for a really worthwhile cause at the same time."

For application forms, or for further information about the race, contact Steph James, Maidenhead town manager, on 01628 796128.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

The overwhelming majority of Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough residents who visited the government's recent Heathrow consultation exhibition in Windsor are opposed to further expansion at the airport.

A Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough exit poll of 162 people showed that 80% do not want a third runway and more than 73% said their quality of life would 'personally suffer' if the runway went ahead. There was also a majority – more than 80% – who felt that the expansion would damage the environment and contribute to global warming.

The Department for Transport's Adding Capacity at Heathrow consultation sets out plans for adding another 222,000 flights per year at the airport by 2030, including a third runway and a sixth terminal.

Public exhibitions are being held in local authority areas around the airport and, as part of its preparation for responding to the consultation, the Royal Borough asked people who attended the Windsor exhibition on December 17 what they thought about the government's plans.

In addition more than 80% of respondents were sceptical that the government would actually take account of their views when making the final decision about the expansion – indeed, they felt the government had already made up its mind to build the third runway, regardless of the outcome of the consultation.

There was also a majority – more than 70% – who disputed the government's view that London needs a third runway if it is to continue prospering as a world city.

Cllr Colin Rayner, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead highways, transport and the environment, thanked members of Windsor Area Aviation Action Group, Old Windsor Residents' Association and local councillors who helped carry out the survey.

He said: "Based on the number of responses we feel our exit poll is a very good indicator of how borough residents feel about the expansion – the equivalent of building a new airport the size of Gatwick. People are angry, and they are also very worried that the government will just forge ahead and not take their views into account."

The council will be putting forward its views on the Heathrow plans in the very near future. In the meantime residents are encouraged to read the consultation papers very carefully and, if possible, attend one of the remaining public exhibitions, as follows:

* Colnbrook – Sheraton Heathrow Hotel (14 January, 10am – 8pm)
* Brentford – Holiday Inn Brentford (16 January, 10am – 8pm)
* Richmond – Adult Community College (18 January, 10am – 8pm)
* Egham – The Jurgens Centre (21 January, 10am – 8pm)
* Langley – Langley Community Centre (23 January, 10am – 8pm)
* Central London (two days) – Queen Elizabeth II Conference Centre (25 January, 10am – 8pm, and 26 January, 10am – 6pm).

Full details about the consultation are available at www.dft.gov.uk/heathrowconsultation or by calling 0845 600 4170.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

From Monday January 14 the Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough will become a Special Parking Area, with the council in control of parking enforcement and introducing Safer Fairer Parking for All.

Since the beginning of the month Windsor and Maidenhead borough parking attendants have been on patrol in local streets and roads, issuing warning notices to drivers who have parked illegally on yellow lines or other restricted areas and reminding them that if they do so in future they will be in line for a £60 penalty charge notice.

In just one day last week more than 200 warning notices were handed out – but Cllr Colin Rayner, lead member for highways, transport and environment, said the end was in sight for people who flouted the law.

Cllr Rayner said: "The many months of detailed preparation are now over and the council is ready to introduce consistent, fair parking enforcement in our towns and villages. We are determined to reclaim local streets and roads from drivers who show casual disregard for the law by parking where they shouldn't, including in Windsor residents' parking permit areas."

He added: "There may be some central Windsor resident permit holders who will be worried that the changes will cause them real parking issues in the evenings and at weekends. However, I would urge them not to worry. The initial focus for the wardens will be parking hotspots and in areas where parking is causing danger to traffic flow and pedestrians.

"With the initial focus on hot spots, the council will then be implementing further changes to come into effect in March and April that will significantly increase space available to permit holders – like in resident permit-only roads."

Being a Special Parking Area means the Windsor and Maidenhead council will be responsible for enforcement of yellow lines and limited waiting, as well as its own residents' permit areas. 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.

Parking attendants will not get bonuses or incentives for issuing a certain number of tickets. They will 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 fly-tipping.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Maidenhead: 13 January - 19th January 2008
Altwood Road
Maidenhead
SL6 4PF
01628 788997

13th January in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 3:00 pm
The Magic Flute (PG)
* 7:30 pm
The Magic Flute (PG)
* Workshops and other events
* 10:00 am
CHROMA
* 1:30 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group D
* 4:00 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group E

14th January in Maidenhead

No events planned

15th January in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 8:00 pm
The Counterfeiters (15)
* Workshops and other events
* 10:00 am
Chi-Kung
* 2:00 pm
CHROMA

16th January in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 10:30 am
Feltmaking
* 8:00 pm
The Counterfeiters (15)
* Workshops and other events
* 2:00 pm
CHROMA
* 2:30 pm
Thames Valley Tai Chi

17th January in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 8:00 pm
American Gangster (18)
* Workshops and other events
* 9:00 am
Creative Writing: Making Yourself Heard
* 10:30 am
Make Silver Jewellery
* 2:00 pm
CHROMA
* 2:00 pm
Writing a Novel for Publication
* 5:00 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group C
* 6:15 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group F
* 7:30 pm
Giddha Dance

18th January in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 8:00 pm
Mark Watson, Can I Briefly Talk To You About The Point Of Life?
* Workshops and other events
* 10:00 am
Rub Stroke and Scratch
* 11:00 am
Fun at the Farm
* 2:00 pm
CHROMA
* 4:30 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group G
* 7:00 pm
Life Drawing

19th January in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 7:30 pm
The Temperance Seven
* Workshops and other events
* 9:30 am
Kathak Advanced Dance
* 10:30 am
Kathak Intermediate Dance
* 11:30 am
Kathak Beginner Dance
* 2:00 pm
CHROMA

Police are appealing for witnesses after a burglary at a house in Albany Road, Windsor, on Friday 28 December.

Some time between 2.15pm and 3.50pm, a burglar entered the Windsor house through a ground-floor window and stole a laptop computer.

The stolen item was a silver Hewlett Packard Notebook computer.

Windsor PC James Heath, who is investigating the incident, said: “The house is close to the junction with Alexandra Road, near the barracks and Victoria Street car park. The burglary took place on a busy shopping day at a time when lots of people would have been in the area.

“I am appealing for any members of the public who saw someone behaving suspiciously in the area at the time to come forward.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact PC Heath 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 ~ Windsor

Police are appealing for witnesses after a Porsche was stolen at a roundabout in Maidenhead.

At about 4.45pm on Monday (31/12), a man in his fifties was sitting in his silver Porsche at the Thicket roundabout, Maidenhead (A404M) when a silver Mercedes shunted the rear of his car.

The man got out and went to talk to the driver of the Mercedes. While he was distracted, the passenger of the Mercedes got out of the car and went towards the Porsche. An altercation ensued, during which the man sustained minor cuts and bruises. The passenger of the Mercedes then got into the Porsche and drove off in the direction of London.

The Porsche was later recovered between junctions 5 and 6 of the M4, having collided with the central reservation. No-one was with the vehicle.

The Porsche owner was left shaken but did not require hospital treatment.

The driver of the Mercedes is a white man, in his twenties, with curly fair hair. He is short and has a round face. He was wearing a light-coloured polo neck jumper.

The passenger is a white man, in his twenties, with very short brown hair and thin lips. He is approximately 6ft 1ins and slim. He was wearing a tan-coloured distressed leather jacket.

Both men spoke with southern accents.

Anyone who witnessed the incident, or who saw the vehicles before or afterwards, is urged to contact Det Con Kathryn Webb of Maidenhead CID via the 24-hour 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

With Windsor and Maidenhead snow flurries and freezing road conditions forecast for Wednesday and Thursday of this week, the Royal Borough is well prepared to grit local roads and is also urging drivers to keep their speeds down as the temperature plummets.

The Windsor and Maidenhead council's highways maintenance contractors, Balfour Beatty Infrastructure Services, are on 24-hour standby throughout the winter with gritters ready for fast call-out when frost and snow are forecast.

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, transport and environment, said: "The latest forecast is for a couple of days of really cold temperatures and the prospect of snow. The council is well prepared to grit roads and footways – but the safety of our residents also depends on people driving according to the conditions. I urge everyone to keep their speed down and plan for longer journey times.

"My advice is to clear car windows of ice and snow before moving off and take all necessary precautions for driving in wintery conditions. I wish everyone a happy and safe New Year."

The annual gritting programme is monitored by Windsor and Maidenhead council's highways and engineering team, with duty managers on 24-hour call. They use 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 at www.rbwm.gov.uk

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead