Maidenhead & Windsor

Eton Wick C of E First School, Windsor is ‘on the up’ following its latest Ofsted inspection.

Inspectors spent two days at the school in Sheepcote Road, Eton Wick, in June and their report acknowledges the progress made – in particular the steps taken in the last two terms ‘to ensure a brighter future’.

The report highlights the stable leadership team and the support from the relatively new governing body, the Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough and the diocese, focusing on the good teaching and subsequent achievement of all children in reaching their expected goals and the significant improvements achieved since the last report.

Cllr Eileen Quick, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead children’s services, said she was delighted at the hard work which had led to such a well-deserved report.

She said: “Everyone at Eton Wick has really pulled together to achieve such an encouraging result and earn the praise of the Ofsted inspectors for the school’s marked improvement since its last inspection.

“I am sure that the parents and the local community must be delighted that their local school has been recognised for its commitment to improving and the acknowledgement that there is now clear potential for even further improvement in the future. Well done everyone!”

Chair of governors, the Rev Lucy Holt, said: “This report demonstrates that Eton Wick is definitely on the way up, with even more focus on the important Foundation stage when children start school.

“The report acknowledges that children settle in very happily, that the curriculum at this level is good, and excellent relationships between children and staff engender confidence in the children and help to develop a love of learning.

“It is now up to us all to build on this positive foundation to ensure that Eton Wick continues its upward journey and its determination to progress for the benefit of pupils, staff and the wider school community.”

The need for ‘significant improvement’ highlighted in last year’s Ofsted has been addressed in a number of ways including:
· the continuing development of a cohesive leadership team and staff who work together effectively
· the implementation of a well-focussed school development plan and tracking of pupils’ progress which is providing a more accurate picture of achievements
· improving target-setting for pupils and carrying out more effective monitoring of progress.

To help Eton Wick continue to improve – and address the report’s emphasis on the need to raise standards even higher – the inspectors recommend the following areas for improvement:
· further improve teaching to ensure that all pupils make consistently good progress and attain higher standards in English, mathematics and science
· develop the role of the key subject co-ordinators in the monitoring of their subjects
· ensure that the initiatives that are leading to improvement are monitored and evaluated rigorously against clear and measurable success criteria.

The report concludes that since the beginning of the year the school has “settled down, strengthened and taken steps to ensure a brighter future”.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Maidenhead: 6 July - 12 July 2008
Altwood Road
Maidenhead
SL6 4PF
01628 788997

6th July in Maidenhead

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

7th July in Maidenhead

No events planned

8th July in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 8:00 pm
The Kite Runner (12A)
* Workshops and other events
* 4:30 pm
Bollywood Dance
* 5:45 pm
Norden Exposure Youth Dance
* 7:00 pm
Norden Exposure Academy

9th July in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 4:15 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group A
* 7:30 pm
Absolute Hell
* Workshops and other events
* 2:00 pm
Take One Picture
* 5:30 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group B
* 6:45 pm
Norden Lights Academy

10th July in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 8:00 pm
Joy Division (15)
* Workshops and other events
* 2:00 pm
Take One Picture
* 5:00 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group C
* 6:15 pm
Tabla Drumming
* 6:15 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group F
* 6:45 pm
Tabla Drumming
* 7:30 pm
Tabla Drumming

11th July in Maidenhead

* Workshops and other events
* 11:00 am
Fun at the Farm
* 2:00 pm
Take One Picture

12th July in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 7:30 pm
Samaritan’s Charity Gala Concert
* 7:45 pm
Cabaret Night supported by Penny Matthews
* Workshops and other events
* 9:30 am
Kathak Dance
* 10:00 am
Batik Silk Scarf Workshop
* 10:00 am
Take One Picture
* 10:30 am
Kathak Dance
* 11:30 am
Kathak Dance

A way forward for Windsor parking that is a ‘realistic menu of options’ has been put forward by the Royal Borough, fulfilling a promise to local residents to identify noticeable, affordable solutions for the town’s parking problems.

The draft Windsor parking strategy highlights the council’s determination to put residents’ needs first, with achievable ways of providing 500 extra parking spaces in the next three years and a further 500 – 1,000 in the next decade. A number of the proposals aim to offer parking options on the outskirts for visitors to free up even more spaces for residents living in and/or using the town centre.

Short and medium term options to be considered include:

* 100 extra spaces at Home Park park and ride, as well as extending the evening operating hours of the bus service
* 200 – 400 park and ride spaces at Windsor racecourse, with a shuttle bus service into the town centre
* a new 150-space weekend park and ride at Centrica, Maidenhead Road
* a 200-space weekend park and ride at King Edward VII Hospital – with the car park also promoted for evening use serving the town centre
* a new footbridge linking the Dials multi-storey car park (used by the public at weekends) with Windsor and Eton Central station
* new travel information signage giving drivers up-to-the-minute information about parking availability
* co-ordinated, high profile marketing to promote parking availability and choice for residents, businesses and visitors
* working with local businesses to allow residents and visitors to use their car parks in the evenings and at weekends when they are not needed for staff.

A longer-term concept is to build parking decks over the existing surface car park at Alexandra Gardens, potentially creating up to 400 additional parking spaces. This would be subject to securing planning approval and external funding.

Cllr David Burbage, council leader, said that finding solutions to Windsor’s parking problems was one of the council’s top priorities.

He said: “We listened to local residents last year when they said they did not want a park and ride at Eton Wick because of its environmental impacts and the fact that it was just not financially viable. At that time we promised a realistic parking strategy that would achieve noticeable, affordable solutions for the town’s parking problems. This draft is the result of considerable research and it enables us to bring forward workable proposals that potentially could deliver significant benefits for Windsor.

“The strategy will go out for structured consultation across the community and the views of local people will give us a clear steer on the way ahead.”

Cllr Colin Rayner, lead member for Windsor and Maidenheadhighways, transport and environment, said: “We have already created more than 170 extra spaces for residents’ parking by removing unnecessary restrictions in local streets – and there are more on the way. We are planning between 60 and 70 additional spaces in the next few months.

“We now have a well-thought-out, detailed strategy for wider parking provision in the town that will be the basis for consulting with our community. This is a long-overdue, co-ordinated approach to tackling a very difficult issue and I look forward to getting people’s views so we can take forward proposals that are backed by the people who matter most – our residents.

“We would like to thank the many residents and businesses who have contacted us with their views and ideas, some of which have been incorporated in the draft strategy. Parking is one of the most important issues for residents in Windsor and we must strive to find solutions that work for them.”

The Royal Windsor and MaidenheadBorough had provisionally secured a £7million SEERA grant for the subsequently rejected Eton Wick park and ride scheme. A ‘refreshed’ bid for funding to support parking and transport initiatives in Windsor has now been submitted, based on the draft parking strategy, and a response is expected in the autumn.

The draft strategy will go out for public consultation during the summer and in the meantime will be discussed by the council’s planning and environment overview and scrutiny panel on Monday June 30 and then by cabinet on Thursday July 24.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

A quartet of Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough schools are celebrating after being awarded top marks for their extra-curricular activities.

The foursome – Alwyn Infant and Nursery School, and Lowbrook, Cookham Rise and Cookham Dean primary schools – have become the first schools in the borough to gain the prestigious QISS award for their range of voluntary out-of-school-hours learning activities. They were all presented with their awards at a special recognition day earlier this month

To qualify for a Qiss (Quality in Study Support) award, the schools had to demonstrate a strong commitment to activities such as homework clubs, revision sessions, school day trips and residential trips as well as extra-curricular artistic and sporting activities and clubs.

Cllr Eileen Quick, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead children’s services, said: “All four schools should be very proud of their achievements. They have proved that they are true Royal Borough pioneers in promoting the importance of extra-curricular opportunities.

“It is not always easy to encourage and stimulate children into taking part in activities out of school hours, but these four schools have proved that it can be done with the right mix of activities and support. These learning activities are all about increasing motivation and raising self-esteem and achievement, and as such their value cannot be underestimated.

“At the special recognition event when the awards were given out, there was a great deal of praise for the wide range of high quality and interesting activities undertaken by all four schools – proving that their awards are richly deserved.

“Let’s hope other schools in the borough will follow their lead and consider working towards this very worthwhile accreditation.”

The Qiss awards – supported by the Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough’s extended services department – involved each school in gathering a portfolio of evidence to meet the Study Support code of practice at one of three levels – emerged, established and advanced. Cookham Dean Primary applied for and gained the emerged level, and the other three applied for and gained the established level.

For further information about the award contact Frances Garland, area extended services co-ordinator, on 01628 683654.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

The needs of local Windsor and Maidenhead children and young people have been prioritised in a three-year plan just published by the Royal Borough.

The second Children and Young People Plan (CYPP) – approved by Windsor and Maidenhead council last night (Tuesday) – sets out the most important priorities for children’s services until 2011 and establishes a clear direction for the development of those services.

It looks back at what has been achieved under the previous plan (2006-08) and focuses on ways of improving services even further to achieve the best possible outcomes for all Royal Borough children.

The publication of the plan follows extensive consultation carried out earlier in the year among professionals involved in the provision of children’s services as well as children and young people and their families and members of the wider community.

Cllr Eileen Quick, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead children’s services, said this week: “This is the council’s second Children and Young People Plan and it builds on a review of the first plan as well as an analysis of the needs of local children to focus on our priorities for the future.

“This new plan is all about setting targets to make our already excellent services even better, and working closely with partner agencies on our Children’s Trust to address the particular needs of some of the more vulnerable children in our community, as well as ensuring that every child and young person is happy, healthy, safe and able to achieve their full potential.

“I am delighted that so many people took part in the consultation which has enabled us to establish our very important priorities for the next few years.”

Key priorities of the new Windsor and Maidenhead plan are:

· Be healthy – developing comprehensive mental health services to support children and young people’s mental health and emotional well-being. Also developing services to promote physical health, improve sexual health and reduce levels of obesity and substance misuse
· Stay safe – developing early-intervention services for families and schools to improve outcomes for vulnerable children and young people and enable young people with additional needs to be educated and supported closer to home
· Enjoy and achieve – narrowing the attainment gap to enable vulnerable and potentiallyunderachieving children to achieve the highest possible standards. Also raising the proportion of middle and secondary schools judged by Ofsted inspectors to be good or outstanding
· Make a positive contribution – provide more targeted support for young people and support parents and carers to help nurture children and young people’s social and emotional development
· Achieve economic wellbeing – enabling all 14-19-year-olds to access the full range of learning opportunities and benefit from employment, education and training.

Two additional priorities are:

· Children in care – improving the lives of children in care by implementing a number of initiatives including promoting health and well-being, increasing family and parenting support and ensuring children receive a first-class education.
· Children with learning difficulties and/or disabilities – developing an integrated multi-agency service for children with complex needs that puts children and families’ needs at the centre.

Windsor and Maidenhead Cllr Quick added: “Most importantly we will continue to listen to the views of children and young people and their families to make sure that the council and its partners are providing services that really meet their needs and make a real difference to their lives.”

The full plan can be viewed from next week at http://www.rbwm.gov.uk/web/partnerships_childrens_trust_children_young_peoples_plan.htm

For further information about the Children and Young People Plan – or to request copies of the plan – contact Anna Crispin, head of children’s commissioning, on 01628 685662.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

“Flags flying, drums beating and bayonets fixed” – the full colour and ceremony of a traditional Freedom March comes to the streets of Windsor on Saturday (June 28) as the Berkshire Yeomanry exercise their right to the freedom of the town.

More than 80 members of the Territorial Army’s 94 (Berkshire Yeomanry) Signal Squadron – based at the TA centre in Bolton Avenue, Windsor – will march through the town accompanied by the Heavy Cavalry and Cambria Band.

The Windsor parade – to mark the centenary of the TA – will leave Victoria Barracks at 12.30pm and march up Sheet Street to the Guildhall, where the Mayor of the Royal Borough, Cllr Dorothy Kemp, will take the salute and address the troops. She will be joined by Brigadier A.P Verey, QVRM, TD, DL, honorary colonel of the squadron.

The parade will then make its way down Thames Street and along River Street and will disperse in Barry Avenue before some members of the regiment – including several who have just returned from Afghanistan and Iraq - join the Mayor for a reception at the Guildhall.

Thames Valley Police will close the parade route between 12.15pm and 12.45pm, and parking will be suspended in Thames Street, River Street and part of Barry Avenue from 7am until 1pm. Loading bays in Thames Street and River Street will also be suspended for the period of the march.

Cllr Kemp said: “This Freedom March is a fitting way to celebrate the centenary of the Territorial Army – and to highlight the commitment and valuable support they provide for the Army.

“This regiment has a long association with Windsor and is an important part of the life of our town, and I hope that as many people as possible will take this opportunity to show our appreciation for the time and dedication the soldiers give so generously by coming to Windsor on Saturday to watch the parade and enjoy the colourful spectacle.”

Andrew Scott, democratic and civic services manager, said: “The council is working closely with the squadron and the police to ensure that Saturday’s event goes smoothly, and we are making every effort to keep disruption to a minimum.

“We would particularly advise motorists planning to come to Windsor to be aware of the parking restrictions during the morning in Thames Street, River Street and part of Barry Avenue.”

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Storytelling with children, healthy eating, fun with computers, how to be a yummy mummy, singing with children, how to keep fit and healthy – just some of the many and varied FREE workshops taking place during the Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough’s two Family Learning Days.

Family Learning Days take place on:

Saturday June 28, 10am – 12noon
Venue: Broom Farm Community Centre, Kenneally Row, Windsor SL4 4XP

Saturday July 5, 10am – 12noon
Venue: Ellington Extended Services Centre, Cookham Road, Maidenhead SL6 7JA.

The days are designed to encourage parents and children to develop literacy and numeracy skills together in a fun environment. People can try as many activities as they wish and take away new ideas to do at home.

Cllr Eileen Quick, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead children’s services, said: "As a teacher and parent, I truly believe that learning together as a family enriches the experience for the child and the parents.

“Family learning can be fun. I would urge parents to come along and find out how they can help their child to read, learn maths or help with their homework. This will be an opportunity for everyone to have a go and try out new things.”

All sessions are free and there is no need to book.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Show Windsor and Maidenhead binge drinking the red card – that’s the message from the Royal Borough’s drug and alcohol action team (DAAT) as it launches its latest safer summer drinking campaign on Wednesday June 25, to tie in with the first Euro 2008 semi-final.

Five thousand information packs (containing hints and tips for safer drinking and useful contact numbers, a condom* and a lollipop) will be distributed to local pubs and clubs in Windsor and Maidenhead where the rest of the football matches are being screened.

Cllr Simon Dudley, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead adult services, said: “We picked Euro 2008 to launch this latest safer drinking campaign because we know this will be a time when people are drinking more. We want everyone to enjoy themselves and the packs should provide everything they need to stay safe and look after each other.

“The message is simple: enjoy the football, but don’t drink to excess and don’t be violent and get into fights when you are out.”

Di Wright, Windsor and Maidenhead drug and alcohol action team co-ordinator, said: “We ran a similar campaign for the 2006 World Cup which was received very positively by local pubs, clubs and revellers. We want people to have a good night, but to remember it for all the right reasons – so give binge drinking the red card!”

Acting Supt Jim Templer, commander of Windsor and Maidenhead local police area, said: “We welcome this latest initiative by the DAAT, which complements Thames Valley Police’s year-long ‘Know Your Limits’ campaign to reduce the harm caused by excessive consumption of alcohol. If we can persuade people to drink sensibly, it would prevent many crimes in which drunkenness is a contributing factor, particularly assaults and vandalism.”

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Drainage improvements to help prevent future flooding in Maidenhead’s Clare Road will soon be under way.

The council has allocated funding for drainage schemes in local streets and roads across the borough that have suffered from flooding at times of heavy rainfall.

Clare Road – particularly affected by last July’s exceptional downpour, when more than four inches of rain fell in just over one-and-a-half hours – is one of those in the programme. Contractors have now been appointed and council officers are finalising the project plan so that the work can get under way as soon as possible this summer.

Cllr Colin Rayner, lead member for Windsor and Maidenheadhighways, traffic and environment, said this demonstrated the council’s determination to tackle local issues and find solutions.

He said: “Last July’s torrential rain highlighted a number of drainage problem areas and since then we have made it a priority to draw up an improvement programme to address the issues and make life better for our residents.

“Clare Road was one of the areas worst affected and I know people living there will welcome the news that money has been set aside and the scheme will go ahead in the very near future.”

Letters informing Clare Road residents about the scheme have been distributed and a further letter will go out when the details, including the start date, have been finalised.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Maidenhead: 29 June - 5 July 2008
Altwood Road
Maidenhead
SL6 4PF
01628 788997

29th June in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 1:30 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group D
* 7:30 pm
The Karine Polwart Trio
* Workshops and other events
* 10:00 am
Word on the Street
* 4:00 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group E

30th June in Maidenhead

No events planned

1st July in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 8:00 pm
Un Secret (15)
* Workshops and other events
* 2:00 pm
Word on the Street
* 4:30 pm
Bollywood Dance
* 5:45 pm
Norden Exposure Youth Dance
* 7:00 pm
Norden Exposure Academy

2nd July in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 4:15 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group A
* 8:00 pm
Un Secret (15)
* Workshops and other events
* 2:00 pm
Word on the Street
* 5:30 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group B
* 6:45 pm
Norden Lights Academy

3rd July in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 7:30 pm
Summer Concert Series:1, Evelina Puzaite (piano)
* Workshops and other events
* 2:00 pm
Word on the Street
* 5:00 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group C
* 6:15 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group F
* 6:15 pm
Tabla Drumming
* 6:45 pm
Tabla Drumming
* 7:30 pm
Tabla Drumming

4th July in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 8:00 pm
Lightnin' Willie and the Poorboys
* Workshops and other events
* 11:00 am
Fun at the Farm
* 2:00 pm
Word on the Street

5th July in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 3:00 pm
You, the Living (Du Levande) (15)
* 8:00 pm
You, the Living (Du Levande) (15)
* Workshops and other events
* 9:30 am
Kathak Dance
* 10:30 am
Life Drawing Workshop
* 10:30 am
Kathak Dance
* 11:30 am
Kathak Dance

It will be civic support “at the double” when Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough Mayor Cllr Dorothy Kemp joins Eton Town Council Mayoress Lynne Highy and trainee guide dog Grady next week to help raise awareness about eye health.

But the civic duo won’t mind being left in the shade by their canine colleague as Grady leads by example and dons his sunglasses in support of this year’s Guide Dogs for the Blind annual Shades Day on Friday June 20.

Windsor and Maidenhead Cllr Kemp and Lynne Highy – a puppywalker currently training nine-month-old Grady as a guide dog – will be supporting the thousands of people from all over the country who will be putting on sunglasses, sun visors and sunhats to highlight the need to protect their eyes when outside during the day – with particular emphasis on the increased risks of developing cataracts and macular degeneration as a result of over-exposure to the sun’s UV rays.

Cllr Kemp, Lynne and Grady will launch the local awareness campaign on Friday June 20 at 12.30pm outside the Town Hall, St Ives Road, Maidenhead.

Cllr Kemp said this week: “With summer well and truly upon us now, this is a really worthwhile and timely campaign to remind people to think very carefully about the health of their eyes.

“I am delighted to be supporting the Guide Dogs for the Blind campaign and helping to raise awareness about the importance of protecting eyes, especially when you are outside and the light is so bright that you have to squint or turn away.”

Lynne Highy is one of many puppywalking volunteers around the country who care for guide dog puppies from the age of six weeks for 12-14 months, introducing them to the sights, sounds and smells they will encounter when they are guide dogs.

Lynne said: “Despite the hard work involved, being a puppy walker is very rewarding in helping to achieve a balanced and well-behaved puppy ready for its final training. It is such a worthwhile job to do, especially when the puppy qualifies and is able to be the sight for another person.”

For further information about Shades Day visit the website www.shadesday.org.uk or phone 0845 600 6787 to receive the Guide Dogs free fundraising and information pack.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Budding young Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough sportsmen and women are once again invited to apply for funding to help them reach their sporting goals.

The Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough’s annual Sports Bursary Scheme – which acknowledges and supports young players’ achievements and the contribution coaches make to their sport – provides funds of up to £250 for each of the successful applicants.

This year and for the next three years the borough is working in partnership with the Louis Baylis Trust which has doubled the available funds for the scheme so that more potential Olympians can be supported.

Participants and coaches in any sport recognised by Sport England are eligible to apply for the £6,000 worth of bursaries, and nominations are welcome. The awards panel favours player applicants aged 25 and below, while coach bursary applicants must be 16 or older.

Cllr Jesse Grey, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead leisure and culture, said: “The borough is delighted to offer this funding to help develop our sports stars of the future. Who knows, one of our recipients could even represent Great Britain in the 2012 Olympics.”

Windsor and Maidenhead Applications can be submitted for:

* Player Bursary Awards – aimed at aspiring young athletes, to acknowledge their achievements and provide funds to help them achieve full national, international and even Olympic recognition. The money is intended to help towards coaching fees, purchase of equipment and necessary clothing, training courses and travelling expenses

* Coach Bursary Awards – aimed at acknowledging the vital contribution coaches make to sport, to raise their profile and enhance coach education in the borough through such measures as training courses or purchase of equipment to assist with coaching sessions

* The Lifetime Achievement Award – presented to an individual who has made a significant contribution to sport in the Royal Borough over a number of years.

For an application form or guidelines on how to nominate someone for these awards, contact the sports development team on 01753 860173 or sports.development@rbwm.gov.uk Alternatively, visit www.rbwm.gov.uk/web/sdev_index.htm

The deadline is Thursday July 31. Successful applicants will be advised in person after this date and presented with their awards at a leisure and cultural achievements celebration evening on Wednesday October 22.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Following the Maidenhead success of the recent Larchfield community clean-up in Desborough Park, children from Larchfield Primary School will be giving their school grounds a summer spruce up on Wednesday June 18.

Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough streetcare officers Nigel Davis and Martin Lewis will set the scene with a special assembly on litter awareness. Pupils will then get to see a mechanical sweeper in action and to take part in games when they head out to clean up the school grounds, assisted by the streetcare team and the community wardens. The Mayor, Cllr Dorothy Kemp, will present the school with a new litter bin and litter pickers donated by the council.

Cllr Jesse Grey, lead member for community safety, said: “I am delighted that the children are continuing the good work started last week at the community event.

“It is important to teach children that dropping litter is anti-social and spoils the environment – and seeing the mechanical sweeper will help to get across this important message. We are pleased to be giving them a new litter bin for the playground and are sure they will make full use of it.”

Nigel Davis, senior Windsor and Maidenhead streetcare officer, said: “This event is part of the council’s ongoing determination to get children and adults alike to dispose of their litter in a responsible way by putting it in a bin or by taking it home. Let’s hope that parents will want to continue with the anti-litter message at home or when they are out and about.”

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Calling all local businesses – now’s your chance to make your big screen debut as Maidenhead prepares for a unique movie extravaganza this summer.

There’s still time to join the prestigious list of businesses already signed up to support Maidenhead at the Movies, a free outdoor cinema spectacular to be held in Kidwells Park, Maidenhead, from Friday July 25 to Sunday July 27.

“We already have sponsors for seven of the eight films we will be showing over the weekend,” says Steph James, Maidenhead town manager. “So anyone wanting to sponsor the last remaining film should get in touch as soon as possible – although we also have lots of other sponsorship opportunities for companies to have their advertising messages displayed on the screen between films as well. We would like to see as many local businesses as possible getting into the community spirit and taking part in this great event.”

A giant screen will be set up in Kidwells Park showing films for all the family over the weekend – with film shows on Friday and Saturday at 10am, 2pm and 6pm, and 10am and 2pm on Sunday.

Cllr David Burbage, chairman of Maidenhead Town Partnership, said: “If the weather holds out it should be a fantastic weekend for the whole family. We hope people will bring picnics and enjoy a really good day out.

“The selection of films is still being finalised, but the aim is to provide something for everyone, and especially films suitable for families to watch together at the daytime showings. So let’s make this a real community event to mark the start of the school summer holidays.”

Details of the films will be announced in the coming weeks. For further information about sponsorship and advertising opportunities contact Steph James on 01628 796128.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

A controversial proposal for a new Tesco store at High Street, Sunninghill, has been turned down unanimously by the Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough after hearing ‘compelling evidence’ that it could result in danger to road users and pedestrians in the area.

Last night (Wednesday June 11) members of Windsor development control (DC) panel heard how more than 600 objections had been received by the council’s planning department, along with a detailed objection from Sunninghill and Ascot Parish Council. There were two submissions in support for the application.

Windsor’s Guildhall was packed to overflowing by local residents, concerned about traffic and parking issues, the detrimental effect the proposed new store would have on existing shops and the additional noise, pollution and litter which they said it would cause.

After detailed consideration, panel members turned down the application because:

* the proposed new access off School Road, to be used by delivery vehicles, would be detrimental to vehicular and pedestrian safety and to the free flow of traffic
* insufficient on-site parking would result in increased demand for parking spaces in surrounding streets, where spaces are already limited
* the new delivery and service yard would be unneighbourly
* it would result in loss of amenity to local residents
* Tesco had not entered into a Section 106 agreement that would secure the contributions necessary to meet the additional needs of the community if the development went ahead.

Cllr Alison Knight, panel chairman, extended speaking times to allow panel members to hear submissions from both the applicant and objectors before taking their decision.

She said: “There has been overwhelming public interest in this application and we were very conscious of our responsibility to ensure that it met the necessary planning requirements.

“We went to great lengths to consider every aspect of the proposal and we heard compelling evidence that if the store went ahead there would be serious and highly dangerous implications for road users and pedestrians. The panel’s unequivocal view was that the application failed in a number of critical areas and that refusal was the only option.”

Refusal of the application, as recommended by council planning officers, was proposed by Cllr Lynda Yong, Sunninghill and South Ascot ward councillor, and seconded by Cllr Knight.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

It’s preview time at 4 Marlow Road – the new home for the youth and community centre in Maidenhead.

The first occupants of the new Maidenhead centre will be No 22 youth counselling service, followed by Relate and the Citizens Advice Bureau, and later this summer the youth club transfers from Castle Hill to the new centre.

One of the borough’s most ambitious community projects, the premises – comprising the existing, refurbished Grade II listed building and the new linked extension – will provide an up-to-the-minute centre with meeting rooms, two dance studios, internet café, games hall and youth club facilities.

On Thursday June 12 there will be an open house where councillors, the media, staff and Castle Hill customers can view improvements to the existing Grade II listed building. At 1.45pm, Cllr Jesse Grey, lead member for leisure and culture, will cut a specially created cake in the shape of the building to celebrate the successful completion of this first phase.

Cllr Grey said: “A lot of hard work and preparation has gone into bringing us to this point and it is exciting to see it all steadily come to fruition – fantastic new premises for all the Maidenhead community.”

Cllr Eileen Quick, lead member for children’s services, said: “This is a really exciting and ambitious project that will benefit so many Maidenhead residents, especially young people. We consulted with youth club members on the facilities, so we know we are providing what they want.”

The council worked for many years to find a replacement for the popular but rundown Castle Hill Youth and Community Centre in High Town Road to provide town centre services for young people and the wider community, and the project was funded from the proceeds of the sale of the Castle Hill site.

The attractive Grade II listed building previously housed social services and was originally the local technical college.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

The Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough has this week welcomed a planning application for an innovative hydroelectric scheme at Romney Weir on the Thames near Windsor.

The Windsor and Maidenhead application – from npower renewables – aims to provide a scheme which would generate power equivalent to the annual needs of around 300 households using a new design believed to be the first of its kind in the south of England.

Renewable energy would be generated at the weir – next to the bank at Romney Island, between Windsor and Eton - using two hydrodynamic screw turbines to extract energy from the flowing waters and convert it to carbon-free electricity. It is anticipated that the installation would be connected to Windsor Castle.

Cllr Alison Knight, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead planning and housing, said: “We welcome this application from npower renewables which reflects the council’s ongoing commitment to carbon-neutral and highly-sustainable schemes.

“If this project is given the go-ahead we will work with the Environment Agency who own Romney Weir to consider opportunities which could be provided by this scheme in the future.

“However it is important to stress that this application has to go through all the planning processes relevant to any scheme of this nature.”

A previous scheme from npower renewables for the weir was granted planning permission in 2004 but rising costs meant the project was put on hold.

The current revised design is likely to be considered by the Windsor development control panel at its meeting on July 9. If approved, the scheme would be constructed during 2009 and operational before the end of the same year.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Prospective Windsor and Maidenhead land purchasers should do their homework before signing on the dotted line, the Royal Borough has advised.

The warning follows a sales push in Wraysbury in which neighbouring residents are being offered first refusal on plots of land on Manor Farm, commonly known as Thames Field and Coppice Drive. Both plots are Green Belt land and liable to flood.

In a letter from WES Ltd (Worby Estate Sales Ltd) dated June 10, residents have been given until June 17 to purchase, after which time the plots will be released for general sale.

The Windsor and Maidenhead council has issued general advice to anyone considering buying undeveloped land:

· Seek your own independent legal advice on such issues as ownership of the land and payment of any deposit, and check with the council on 01628 683810 to determine what types of development you might be able to undertake

· If the land is in the Green Belt or at risk of flooding it is highly unlikely to receive planning permission for development

· Under trading standards legislation that came into force last month, it is an offence for a trader to engage in unfair or misleading commercial practices. If you have any doubts about any of the advertising material that helped persuade you to make a purchase, then contact the trading standards service on 01628 683802

· Consult your neighbours, friends, parish councillors and ward councillors.

Cllr Alison Knight, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead planning and housing, said: “I would advise any would-be purchaser to make careful checks before buying land – for example, can the ownership be confirmed, is it in the Green Belt or at risk of flooding.”

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Maidenhead: 22 June - 28 June 2008
Altwood Road
Maidenhead
SL6 4PF
01628 788997

22nd June in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 1:30 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group D
* 3:00 pm
Berkshire Maestros Gold Award Concert
* 7:30 pm
Happy-Go-Lucky (15)
* Workshops and other events
* 10:00 am
Word on the Street
* 4:00 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group E

23rd June in Maidenhead

No events planned

24th June in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 10:30 am
Happy-Go-Lucky (15)
* 8:00 pm
Happy-Go-Lucky (15)
* Workshops and other events
* 2:00 pm
Word on the Street
* 4:30 pm
Bollywood Dance
* 5:45 pm
Norden Exposure Youth Dance
* 7:00 pm
Norden Exposure Academy

25th June in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 4:15 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group A
* 7:30 pm
Celebrity Piano Recital: Pascal Rogé and Ami Hakuno
* Workshops and other events
* 2:00 pm
Word on the Street
* 5:30 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group B
* 6:45 pm
Norden Lights Academy
* 7:00 pm
Reading Group

26th June in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 7:30 pm
Stan Laurel: Please Stand Up!
* Workshops and other events
* 2:00 pm
Word on the Street
* 5:00 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group C
* 6:15 pm
Tabla Drumming
* 6:15 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group F
* 6:45 pm
Tabla Drumming
* 7:30 pm
Tabla Drumming

27th June in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 7:45 pm
Don Weller
* Workshops and other events
* 11:00 am
Fun at the Farm
* 2:00 pm
Word on the Street
* 4:30 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group G

28th June in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 3:00 pm
Persepolis (12A)
* 8:00 pm
Persepolis (12A)
* 8:00 pm
Natalie Haynes
* Workshops and other events
* 9:30 am
Kathak Dance
* 10:00 am
Word on the Street
* 10:30 am
Kathak Dance
* 11:30 am
Kathak Dance

Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough pupils are continuing to score good marks for attendance at school, with absences once again down on previous years and significantly below the national average.

Attendance at both primary and secondary schools are on the up and continue to buck national trends – with particular improvement in secondary school attendance.

These encouraging statistics - welcomed by members of the Windsor and Maidenhead children’s services and leisure overview and scrutiny panel – will be reported to cabinet at its meeting on June 26.

Cllr Eileen Quick, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead children’s services, welcomed the statistics. She said: “This report highlights very clearly the fact that absence from school for any reason really does have a negative effect on learning – and that a relatively small increase in the number of days off school can lead to a significant drop in subsequent attainment.

“Non-attendance happens for a variety of reasons including illness, holiday, truancy or more complicated reasons. Any level of persistent non-attendance is a cause for concern, but if a child doubles his or her days off – from say 15 to 30 days during the course of a year – then they halve the probability of getting good A-C grades at GCSE.

“It is vital that parents understand the importance of making sure their child attends school regularly. The council is legally responsible for enforcing attendance in schools, as well as offering advice and information to help schools maximise attendance. Area teams work closely with school staff to monitor young people whose attendance begins to slip and to undertake casework with vulnerable families or carers where attendance is unsatisfactory.

“With the end of the current school year almost upon us, many children will be facing a move to another school in September. The transition can be difficult for some children. Schools work hard to prepare children. We can provide a range of services to support young people who may find this an especially unsettling time.”

Windsor and Maidenhead Council services available to children who might need extra help and support to ensure regular attendance include:

· an attendance strategy manager to work with schools and families to develop attendance strategies

· the Education Welfare Service which provides an education welfare officer for every school to monitor unexplained absences and work with families and the school to resolve issues surrounding poor attendance

· the Educational Psychology service whose staff regularly visit schools aiming to remove or reduce barriers to learning by working with staff, pupils and their families to develop strategic and individual support

· the Connexions service, funded by the council’s community and youth service, which provides both individual and group support to young people in the 13-19 age group.

Support is also provided for children with special educational needs, minority ethnic children, young carers, travellers, pregnant schoolgirls and teenage parents.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

A new government plan to provide free swims for over 60s in the lead up to the London 2012 Olympics has been welcomed by the Royal Borough – with the reminder that ‘we’re already doing it’!

Cllr Jesse Grey, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead leisure and culture, said: “The council has been offering free swims to people over 60 every weekday afternoon at our pools for a number of years so it is gratifying to see the government picking up the idea nationally.

“Swimming is recognised as one of the best exercise workouts for people of all ages. We welcome the national initiative and look forward to further opportunities for expanding our existing scheme once the government has finalised funding details.”

Borough residents aged over 60 can use their yellow Advantage cards to benefit from free swims at either the Magnet Leisure Centre (01628 796104) or Windsor Leisure Centre (01753 850004) every weekday from 2pm to 4pm. No need to book. Just turn up and swim!

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

The annual Windsor Triathlon takes place in Windsor and Eton on Sunday (June 15) with more than 2,400 competitors swimming the Thames and cycling and running along town centre and country roads.

Windsor and Maidenhead Drivers are advised there may well be delays to their journeys, as a number of roads will be closed to vehicles on Sunday at various times between 5am and 1pm and there will be limited access in other areas.

Road closures:

* Windsor town centre – town centre roads (approximately from the A332 Relief Road in the west to the Datchet Road in the east, and Barry Road in the north to Arthur Road in the south) will be closed to vehicles between 6am and 1pm, as well several other roads out of town towards Maidenhead and towards Windsor Great Park
* Eton – all roads from the Keats Lane junction with the High Street south to Windsor and Eton bridge will be closed from 7am to 1pm
* Traffic diversions will be in operation to avoid the closure area; however pedestrian access to the town centre and castle will remain open
* One lane of Datchet Road will remain open at all times for two-way traffic
* Drift Road from Ascot Road (A330) to Fifield Lane will be closed to vehicles from 5am to 11am.

Parking:

* Windsor’s River Street and Castle car parks will be closed until just after noon; all other town centre car parks will be open as usual
* Spectators are strongly advised to park their cars at Windsor Boys’ School and walk into Windsor from there.

Cllr Colin Rayner, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead highways, transport and environment, said: “If you can avoid travelling in the affected areas on the day, or can walk rather than drive, please do. And if you can’t, do be prepared for delays. We hope this brings a lot of business to Windsor. The main shoppers car parks are not affected.”

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Four more Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough schools are this week celebrating success in a nationwide arts award scheme – with three notching up gold and one achieving silver.

The successful quartet have scooped prestigious Artsmark status in the latest round of awards which recognise schools with a high level of provision in the arts.

Two of the gold “stars” are celebrating a meteoric rise straight to gold with their first Artsmark application – Cookham Rise Primary and White Waltham CE School.

It’s a second gold award for All Saints CE Junior School, Maidenhead – and a silver at its first attempt for Datchet St Mary’s CE Primary.

The quartet now join 17 other Royal Borough schools which have gained bronze, silver or gold awards over the last three years for their commitment to the arts – meaning that more than 40% of borough schools now hold Artsmark awards.

Cllr Eileen Quick, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead children’s services, said: “This is yet another terrific result for Royal Borough schools, and everyone involved should be very, very proud of what they have achieved.

“A great deal of hard work by a great many people goes into an Artsmark application – and these successes demonstrate the schools’ commitment to raising the profile of arts in their school and the local community.

“Let’s hope even more of our schools follow their example and apply for Artsmark status in the future.”

The Artsmark award scheme – managed by Arts Council England – recognises schools with a high level of provision in the arts and provides a benchmark for arts provision which encourages schools to consider the opportunities they offer in art, dance, drama and music.

The award aims to:
· encourage schools to increase the range of arts opportunities provided to pupils
· raise the profile of arts education
· recognise and spread good practice in providing the arts
· give young people in schools more opportunities to access the arts
· encourage schools, artists and arts organisations to work together.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Further improvements are about to start at the Royal Borough’s flagship library in Maidenhead town centre to make it an even better place for both customers and staff.

The latest in a phased programme of improvements, work will start on Monday June 16 to replace the crumbling floor screed and carpeting throughout the building, and the following week (Monday June 23) to refurbish the entrance ramp. The improvements to the Grade II listed building have been agreed with English Heritage and completion is scheduled for November.

Cllr Jesse Grey, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead leisure and culture, said the work demonstrated the council’s support for libraries as important ‘knowledge hubs’ in the community.

He said: “Maidenhead is our flagship library and we are committing funds to improving the environment for everyone, customers and staff alike. While other local authorities are cutting back on libraries, the Royal Borough is continuing to invest in them to ensure local access to quality services that promote leisure and learning opportunities for all.”

The library will be open as usual but, while staff will be working hard to ensure disruption is kept to the absolute minimum, there will need to be restricted access to some parts of the building, PCs and stock at different times.

During the improvements customers can use their tickets at any other borough library – the nearest to Maidenhead are at Cookham and Cox Green – or, if they have a PIN on their membership account, they can reserve library stock and renew loans online at www.rbwm.gov.uk/web/onlinelibrary.htm To get a PIN just ask a member of staff and they will be happy to help.

Cllr Grey said: “We apologise for any inconvenience during the works but we are confident our residents will appreciate the improvements when they are completed later in the year.”

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Parks and open spaces are there for everybody to enjoy – that’s the message from the Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough as Love Parks Week approaches.

To reinforce this, a whole range of Free activities have been planned – from Saturday June 14 to Sunday June 22 – at parks throughout the borough for everyone from fitness fanatics to families wanting to enjoy a leisurely day out surrounded by nature.

Cllr Jesse Grey, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead leisure and culture, said: “Many residents already enjoy and make good use of the many excellent parks and open spaces around the Royal Borough, be it young children and their mums at children’s play areas, youngsters joining a game of football or dog owners taking their pets for a stroll.

“Love Parks Weeks is the ideal time for new visitors to discover the appeal of green open spaces, nature and fresh air, whether they want to keep fit, play or relax.”

A special family fun day will be held at Imperial Park in Windsor on Saturday June 14 from 11am to 2pm, combining the start of Love Parks Week with the park’s official launch which was postponed last month because of bad weather. Activities for all ages include a penalty competition and a basketball shots competition, inflatables and sumo suits.

A ‘Sit and Snap’ competition at all parks in Windsor and Maidenhead on Saturday June 21 gives visitors of all ages the chance to enjoy a picnic and take photos which can then be entered in a competition to win six tickets to the Windsor Wheel. Photos need to be emailed to outdoor.facilities@rbwm.gov.uk by Wednesday June 25 and the winner will be announced on Monday June 30.

Nature walks led by countryside rangers will be held on:
· Monday June 16 at 10.30am – Ockwells Park, Maidenhead – Woods old and new
· Tuesday June 17 at 10.30am – Hemwood Dell, Windsor – Trees in the Dell
· Tuesday June 17 at 7pm – Braywick Park, Maidenhead – Marvellous mini-beasts
· Wednesday June 18 at 7pm – Sutherland Grange, Windsor – Wild by the water.

Runners can join a fitness instructor for a jog and workout on:
· Thursday June 19 at 10.30am – Ockwells Park, Maidenhead
· Thursday June 19 at 1pm – Vansittart Recreation Ground, Windsor
· Friday June 20 at 10.30am – Oaken Grove, Maidenhead
· Friday June 20 at 1pm – Dedworth Manor, Windsor.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

People from a wide range of Maidenhead business, professional and community groups – including representatives from the Royal Borough’s youth forum – have been invited to take part in a stakeholder workshop that will influence the future regeneration of Maidenhead.

The workshop on Monday June 16 will be facilitated by urban designers DTZ, recently appointed to work with PRoM and the Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough, and will give stakeholder groups the opportunity to come forward with ideas to help develop a vision for the future of the town centre.

Invitations have gone to more than 60 groups and organisations – including churches, police, fire and health services, community groups such as the chamber of commerce and civic society, leisure, retail and transport operators, architects and estate agents, sports clubs, statutory agencies, campaign groups, housing associations, charities, local newspapers and special interest groups. Maidenhead MP Theresa May has also been invited to attend.

Bob Dulson, PRoM chairman, said: “In the past there has been considerable opportunity for the public at large to have a say on what they want to see for Maidenhead in the future. This workshop is taking consultation a stage further by asking specific stakeholders for their contributions at a time when we are driving forward progress towards a vision for the town.”

Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Organisations which have not received invitations to the stakeholder workshop but would like to attend should email prom@rbwm.gov.uk

In the meantime members of PRoM, along with councillors and representatives from the wider Maidenhead community, have been given an insight into ING Real Estate’s initial thoughts on the opportunity for developing the Broadway/King St triangle.

At a meeting last month Tim Webb, development manager at ING Real Estate, introduced ING as an organisation and showed how they could work towards a mixed use, retail-led viable scheme in Maidenhead town centre which would take into account the Royal Borough’s and ProM’s aspirations for the town.

The presentation included examples of cities and towns around the world where ING had carried out successful developments. This was followed by a wide-ranging discussion on how to take things forward in Maidenhead, including the preparation of a formal development brief to guide any future planning application.

Bob Dulson said: “Although this was our first discussion it was difficult not to be excited by ING’s proposition and their ideas on how this key area of Maidenhead town centre could be redeveloped. There is obviously a considerable amount of work ahead but we all enjoyed meeting Tim Webb and his colleagues and we are pleased to be working with ING to take forward this project as part of our broader plan.”

Tim Webb said: ‘We are pleased and encouraged by the reaction to our initial ideas for the scheme. We are looking forward to working with the council and the people of Maidenhead to create an inspirational and viable scheme which will regenerate the town centre.”

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Detailed plans for a new Maidenhead Holyport Manor Special School with two all-weather pitches at Cox Green have been given the go-ahead by a special meeting of Maidenhead development control panel – but with more than 20 strict planning conditions to address concerns from the local community.

Meeting on Thursday June 5, the Windsor and Maidenhead panel also agreed an outline planning application for proposed community sports and leisure facilities on the Cox Green campus, with access from Highfield Lane. The approval means the council can now bid for the external grant funding needed to go ahead with this project, with a detailed planning application to follow in due course.

Windsor and Maidenhead Cllr Richard Kellaway, who chaired the meeting, said both applications had raised a number of issues in the Cox Green area and he thanked speakers who had put their views so clearly.

He said: “My aim as chairman was to ensure there was full and open discussion so that all panel members were fully aware of both sides before taking their decision. We were very conscious of the need to balance the concerns of the local community with the advantages of building a brand new school for the benefit of both Holyport Manor pupils and for those attending schools on the Cox Green campus.

“So, while approving the application, we have insisted on a wide range of conditions to address community concerns and the council will make sure they are adhered to both before and after the building is complete.”

The Windsor and Maidenhead conditions include:

* new access road off Cannon Lane to be completed before work starts on the school
* travel plans for the Cox Green site to be in place before the school opens
* car parking strategy and management plan to be approved by the council ahead of the development and all parking and turning spaces to be provided before the school opens
* floodlighting to be directional with limits imposed on the intensity of light spillage
* pitches and floodlighting to be used only between 9am and 9.30pm Mondays – Saturdays and 9am – 7pm Sundays
* no sound amplifying equipment to be installed or used
* tree protection and landscaping plans to be in place
* construction management plan to be approved, including details of parking etc for construction workers and materials.

Cllr Kellaway added: “We believe that, along with the amendments already made in response to residents’ feedback, this planning application offers a way forward that is both realistic and deliverable. Local residents can be assured that we will be monitoring progress very closely to make sure that all the planning conditions are adhered to and we will not hesitate to intervene if any breaches are found in the future.”

Granting outline permission for the community sports and leisure facilities, the panel also imposed a series of conditions covering, for example, noise, travel plans and construction management. In response to a suggestion from the Cox Green Community Association, the panel agreed that the applicant (the council) should be asked to take account of the community association’s views in the detailed preparation for the siting and design of the new building.

Cllr Eileen Quick, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead children’s services, said: “I am pleased we are now in a position to go ahead with the school and provide vastly improved facilities for pupils at both Holyport Manor and Cox Green schools.”

Cllr Jesse Grey, lead member for leisure and culture, added: “Granting of outline planning permission for the sports and leisure centre allows us to seek funding from other bodies, along with sponsorship, to provide modern facilities in the heart of the Cox Green area.”

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

With Euro 2008 kicking off on June 7 the Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough's multi-agency domestic abuse forum is encouraging people to 'blow the whistle' on domestic abuse.

Research shows that around 45% of people who assault their partners have been drinking and, with alcohol consumption traditionally rising during large-scale sporting events, the domestic abuse forum wants to raise awareness of the implications for those in an abusive relationship.

Alcohol does not cause domestic abuse, but it can trigger arguments between partners who may find themselves in a cycle of violence, abuse and alcohol misuse.

Cllr Jesse Grey, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead community safety, said: "We want to use this opportunity over the summer to encourage both victims of domestic abuse and those who are abusive to come forward and seek help and support.

"This campaign highlights the links between alcohol and domestic abuse and emphasises that we should all be blowing the whistle - it is a serious crime and will not be tolerated."

Sophie Crowe, Berkshire East domestic abuse co-ordinator, said: "There are a number of local agencies who can support victims of domestic abuse whether they are male or female, such as East Berkshire Women's Aid or Victim Support. There is also support through the Changing Ways programme for men who are, or have been, violent and abusive towards their female partners. If an abuser is alcohol/drug dependent, it is important that this is treated in tandem with addressing the abusive behaviour. Addressing one without the other is unlikely to prove successful."

Anyone who is suffering domestic abuse can take advantage of a number of local support services for confidential help and advice, including East Berkshire Women's Aid which runs drop-in centres across the Slough area. Locations are not publicised so people can visit them safely. The drop-ins are an opportunity to meet the outreach workers for both emotional and practical advice. The support offered includes safety planning, attending appointments with them, helping them complete any necessary paperwork (such as for benefits, injunctions or housing) and a referral to a support group.

Speak to someone in confidence by calling East Berkshire Women's Aid on 0800 085 2654 or 01753 549865. Men suffering domestic abuse should speak to Victim Support Berkshire on 01344 411 411.

Help is also available for any man worried about their abusive behaviour. Call the Changing Ways East Berkshire and Wokingham Perpetrator programme on 07818 054563.

Details of other domestic abuse support agencies in the Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough can be found at the forum's website, www.rbwmdvf.org.uk

To report domestic abuse to the police in an emergency, call 999. Call 0845 8 505 505 in a non-emergency.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Maidenhead: 15 June - 21 June 2008
Altwood Road
Maidenhead
SL6 4PF
01628 788997

15th June in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 1:30 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group D
* 3:00 pm
Aldworth Philharmonic Orchestra
* 7:30 pm
Fade to Black (15)
* 8:00 pm
The Shoemaker’s Incredible Wife, Federico Garcia Lorca, translated by Lucinda Coxon
* Workshops and other events
* 10:00 am
One Woman's Army of Women
* 4:00 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group E

16th June in Maidenhead

No events planned

17th June in Maidenhead

* Workshops and other events
* 4:30 pm
Bollywood Dance
* 5:45 pm
Norden Exposure Youth Dance
* 7:00 pm
Norden Exposure Academy

18th June in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 4:15 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group A
* Workshops and other events
* 5:30 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group B
* 6:45 pm
Norden Lights Academy

19th June in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 7:30 pm
Simon Porter
* Workshops and other events
* 5:00 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group C
* 6:15 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group F
* 6:15 pm
Tabla Drumming
* 6:45 pm
Tabla Drumming
* 7:30 pm
Tabla Drumming

20th June in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 7:30 pm
A Question of Words
* Workshops and other events
* 2:00 pm
Word on the Street
* 4:30 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group G

21st June in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 2:30 pm
James Campbell’s Comedy 4 Kids
* 7:30 pm
Dan le Sac vs Scroobius Pip
* Workshops and other events
* 10:00 am
Word on the Street

Windsor and Maidenhead Carers can't afford to be ill - that's the theme of this year's national Carers Week (June 9 - 15).

The Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough is geared up to celebrate this 14th national celebration week with a full programme of events to highlight the impact caring can have on carers' health and wellbeing.

There are currently more than 11,000 unpaid carers in the Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough, many of whom are under the age of 18. They are looking after a sick or disabled partner, relative or friend and many are not aware of the services available to support them. Carers Week aims to reach out to those carers who do not realise that help is available, as well as contributing to the national campaign to improve support services for carers.

Michaela Helman of the Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough's Carers Link, said: "We welcome everyone in the local community to the events programme, especially if they have caring responsibilities themselves. Many carers find it useful to meet people who are in a similar situation, share experiences and find out more about local support services."

John Shaw, chief executive of the Princess Royal Trust Carers Service in Berkshire said: "Unpaid carers play a vital role in our local community and deserve everyone's support. These events are a great opportunity for carers from across the Royal Borough to find out information, get that vital support and meet together."

Allan Brown, head of Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough adult services, said: "Many carers are unaware of the benefits and services available to them. 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 that carers know their rights, to ensure that they get the support they need. If you are a carer you should come forward and receive the help that could make a big difference to your life."

Carolyn Finlay, assistant director, Berkshire East Primary Care Trust, said: "It is essential that carers receive all the help and support they need to stay in good health. The Primary Care Trust would encourage carers of all ages to visit the many events that are happening locally to see the range of information and services that are available to support carers in their vital role."

Carers Week has been funded by the Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough and Berkshire East PCT, with the programme of events organised by the local Carers Partnership Board together with carers themselves and the Carers Week steering group made up of representatives from the Royal Borough, PCT, Maidenhead MENCAP, Maidenhead Multiple Sclerosis Society, Age Concern Windsor, Community Mental Health team, Milap Asian Women's Group and East Berkshire MIND mental Health promotion team.

For information about Carers Week events and activities contact the Princess Royal Trust Carers Service on 01628 777217. Transport and respite care can be arranged on request.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Despite a determined campaign by the Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough, the Horton Link free bus service to and from Windsor will have to be withdrawn at the end of this week because of lack of support.

In the past month an average of only 1.6 passengers a day have used the service and the Windsor and Maidenhead council can no longer justify the funding needed to maintain the direct link between Horton and Windsor via Datchet.

Cllr Colin Rayner, local ward councillor and lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead highways, transport and the environment, said he was really disappointed by the lack of use.

He said: "We fought really hard to maintain this link and would have needed at least six passengers a day to justify keeping it on the road. It is is currently costing around £40 per passenger journey and, since support has just not materialised despite our best efforts to promote it to local people, the council has no option but to withdraw the service."

The last buses will run on Friday June 6:

Horton - Windsor
Horton, Champney Hall 10.15am
The Green, Datchet 10.20am
Barclays Bank, High Street, Windsor 10.30am
Windsor - Horton
Barclays Bank, High Street, Windsor 1.15pm
The Green, Datchet 1.25pm
Horton, Champney Hall 1.30pm.

Despite this disappointing news, the 305 service operated by Ashford Luxury Coaches has been enhanced to include additional services in Horton.

The new 60 service also operates seven-days-a-week from early morning to late evening and stops at Welley Corner and the junction of Coppermill Road and Stanwell Road (timetable information at bus stops).

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Maidenhead's Larchfield estate will next week be the first area in the borough to benefit from a summer spruce-up.

The clean-up kicks off on Tuesday June 10 from the Pavilion in Desborough Park at 10am when residents will join Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough community wardens, borough streetcare officers and the streetcare team, police officers, police community support officers, Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue, staff from Maidenhead and District Housing Association and local councillors to grapple with graffiti and bag up litter. Several new litter bins will also be installed in the area to resolve litter black spots. The day will be rounded off at 1pm with a BBQ courtesy of Maidenhead and District Housing Association.

The good work continues the following week on Wednesday June 18, when children from Larchfield Primary School will clear up their school grounds, assisted by the community wardens and streetcare officers.

Cllr Jesse Grey, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead community safety, said: "Borough blitzes are going from strength to strength. They are a great way for the local community, the council and its partners to work together to improve their area and I am confident this clean-up will be no exception. I would like to encourage as many people as possible to come along on the day.

"We all have a responsibility for our local environment and every day when we are out and about we can do our bit by putting our litter in the bin or taking it home."

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Constructive feedback from local people has resulted in the Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough making a number of changes to its plans for a new Holyport Manor Special School and community sports and leisure facilities at Cox Green.

The amendments are a direct result of ongoing discussions with community representatives and feedback from Windsor and Maidenhead residents, following the council's detailed planning application for the new school off Cannon Lane and outline application for proposed community sports and leisure facilities adjacent to the existing school sports hall and community centre, with access from Highfield Lane.

The changes include:

* an amendment to the shape of the proposed leisure centre building, allowing Cox Green Community Association to continue to hold its May Fair and other special events where they have always done on the site
* the provision of a right-turn lane into the school on Cannon Lane for traffic coming from the Woodlands Park direction
* the provision of a 'keep clear' area on Cannon Lane at the entrance to the school to help keep traffic on the move and reduce queuing
* the long-standing flooding issue under the railway bridge at Cannon Lane will be considerably improved, thanks to new soakaways.

The planning application for the new school has already been amended to incorporate a change of layout for the sports pitches, which will mean no reduction in use.

Cllr Eileen Quick, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead children's services, said she believed the changes demonstrated the council's willingness to listen to residents' views and take action on constructive suggestions.

She said: "We have this unique opportunity to provide a state-of-the-art school on the existing education campus at Cox Green and we have already amended the planning application to take account of local people's views. The current planning process has brought forward even more helpful feedback from both the school and Cox Green communities and, while the future of the project now rests with the development control panel, I believe we have a truly exciting chance to make a real difference for young people in a new school that will offer everything that is good in 21st century education."

Cllr Jesse Grey, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead leisure and culture, thanked people from Cox Green for their input. He said: "We made it clear from the start that we wanted to hear the views of local residents and organisations and we have made a significant change to the shape of the proposed leisure centre building as a result. Community input is a vital part of drawing up our plans and will continue as we move forward to the more detailed planning stage."

Both proposals - for the school and community facilities - are dependent on the decision of Maidenhead development control (DC) panel when it meets at 7pm on Thursday 5 June. The community facilities are also subject to the council's normal budget process, and to ensure the proposal can attract the required level of grant funding from external bodies such as Sport England and the Football Foundation.

Anyone wishing to speak at the DC meeting must register their intention with the council beforehand. Normally the applicant and objectors are each allocated three minutes to make their submissions but, given the significance of this application, the chairman Cllr Derek Wilson has decided to extend the time allocated to both sides.

If large numbers register their request to speak, the council's advice to residents is to appoint nominated spokespeople who can cover all the issues they wish to raise. In this way the speaking time allowed can be used in the most effective way.

Anyone who wishes to register a request to speak at the panel meeting should contact Michael Kiely, democratic services officer, on 01628 796560 no later than 5pm on Tuesday June 3.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Formal consultation gets underway this week on proposals to provide more first school places in Windsor by expanding three first schools.

Windsor and Maidenhead Cabinet last week gave the go-ahead to the formal consultation on proposals to expand Alexander First School, Clewer Green CE School and Hilltop First School from September 1 2009 to meet the predicted increased demand for places as the national birth rate continues to rise.

Proposals focus on expanding the overall numbers of children at:

Alexander First School, Kenneally Road, Oakley Green, from 112 to 150. Numbers in each year group will increase from 24 to 30.
Clewer Green CE First School, Hatch Lane, from 177 to 225. Numbers in each year group will increase from 38 to 45.
Hilltop First School, Clewer Hill Road, from 149 to 225. Numbers in each year group will increase from 30 to 45.

The formal consultation - a statutory requirement of any significant school expansion - follows initial consultation earlier this year among parents, staff and governors of all Windsor first schools asking which schools they felt should be expanded to cope with rising demand.

The results of the initial consultation have been incorporated into the final proposals - with public notices appearing in the local press this week (Friday May 30). The consultation will run for four weeks until Friday June 27, with a final decision expected in early July.

Cllr Eileen Quick, lead member for children's services, said: "We initially put forward four Windsor First schools for potential expansion, and consulted widely on these suggestions.

"We have listened to the views of parents, staff and governors in the first round of consultation, and have drawn up proposals for these three schools based on the results of that consultation.

"We are now undertaking the statutory consultation with all interested parties, community groups and the general public before a final decision is made later in the summer.

"Any one of these proposals could go ahead without the other two, but we feel strongly that we need to seriously consider all three in order to meet the predicted rise in demand for first school places in the very near future.

"We are fully aware of the impact that the predicted rise in the birth-rate will have on our first schools in the coming years, and are confident that the proposals we are now putting forward will provide a sensible and practical option.

"But we still want to hear the views of as many people as possible before making the final decision."

Copies of the complete proposal can be obtained from Ben Wright, education planning officer at the Town Hall on 01628 796572, by email at ben.wright@rbwm.gov.uk or on the Royal Borough website at www.rbwm.gov.uk/web/consultation_current.htm

Consultation responses should be sent to windsorfirstschools@rbwm.gov.uk or to Corporate Director of learning and care, Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead, Town Hall, St Ives Road, Maidenhead SL6 1RF

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Avid Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough readers will be in their literary element at a special book party at Cox Green Library next week.

Book-lovers and members of reading groups are invited to join the party on Wednesday June 4 from 7- 8.45pm at the library in Highfield Lane, Maidenhead, to help celebrate this year's Orange Broadband Prize for Fiction, which features books written by women from around the world during the last year.

Librarians and members of reading groups will each 'champion' one of the shortlisted titles from this year's entries to encourage the audience to vote for 'their' book.

Group discussions will then enable guests to talk about each book and vote for their favourite - and compare their 'winner' with the real winner of the Orange Prize which will be announced at the end of the evening.

The shortlisted titles up for discussion are:
· The Road Home by Rose Tremain
· Lottery by Patricia Wood
· When We Were Bad by Charlotte Mendelson
· Lullabies for Little Criminals by Heather O'Neill
· Fault Lines by Nancy Huston
· Outcast by Sadie Jones.

All the books are available to borrow from Maidenhead and Cox Green libraries before the event and on the night.

The party is free but places should be booked by calling Cox Green Library on 01628 673942.

For more information contact Kathy Dolan, reading and learning team leader, on 01628 796974 or email kathy.dolan@rbwm.gov.uk

Further information about the Orange Prize is available at www.orangeprize.co.uk and via the link to the library events page at www.rbwm.gov.uk/web/library_events.htm

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Maidenhead: 8 June - 14 June 2008
Altwood Road
Maidenhead
SL6 4PF
01628 788997

8th June in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 1:30 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group D
* 3:00 pm
Love in the Time of Cholera (15)
* 7:30 pm
Love in the Time of Cholera (15)
* Workshops and other events
* 10:00 am
One Woman's Army of Women
* 4:00 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group E

9th June in Maidenhead

No events planned

10th June in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 8:00 pm
Love in the Time of Cholera (15)
* Workshops and other events
* 2:00 pm
One Woman's Army of Women
* 4:30 pm
Bollywood Dance
* 5:45 pm
Norden Exposure Youth Dance
* 7:00 pm
Norden Exposure Academy

11th June in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 4:15 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group A
* 8:00 pm
Children of Glory (15)
* Workshops and other events
* 2:00 pm
One Woman's Army of Women
* 5:30 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group B
* 6:45 pm
Norden Lights Academy

12th June in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 8:00 pm
Children of Glory (15)
* 8:00 pm
The Shoemaker’s Incredible Wife, Federico Garcia Lorca, translated by Lucinda Coxon
* Workshops and other events
* 2:00 pm
One Woman's Army of Women
* 5:00 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group C
* 6:15 pm
Tabla Drumming
* 6:15 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group F
* 6:45 pm
Tabla Drumming
* 7:30 pm
Tabla Drumming

13th June in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 8:00 pm
Alice in the Cities (U)
* 8:00 pm
The Shoemaker’s Incredible Wife, Federico Garcia Lorca, translated by Lucinda Coxon
* Workshops and other events
* 11:00 am
Fun at the Farm
* 2:00 pm
One Woman's Army of Women
* 4:30 pm
Norden Lights Youth Theatre Group G
* 7:00 pm
Life Drawing

14th June in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 8:00 pm
Berks, Bucks and Oxon Big Band
* 8:00 pm
The Shoemaker’s Incredible Wife, Federico Garcia Lorca, translated by Lucinda Coxon
* Workshops and other events
* 9:30 am
Kathak Dance
* 10:00 am
One Woman's Army of Women
* 10:30 am
Kathak Dance
* 11:30 am
Kathak Dance
* 2:00 pm
Papermaking Workshop