Bracknell

A brother and sister who shoplifted repeatedly to fund their drug habit have been banned from Bracknell town centre after being served with anti-social behaviour orders (ASBOs).

At Bracknell Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday 24 May, the District Judge granted anti-social behaviour orders against Kelly Lewington, 26, and her brother Anthony Lewington, 23, both formerly of Enid Wood House, High Street, Bracknell.

The orders ban Kelly and Anthony from entering Bracknell town centre and the Peel Centre, defined as the area bounded by Church Road, the town centre bypass, the A329, Skimped Hill Road and the railway line. They are also banned from Sainsburys in Bagshot Road, Bracknell.

The only exceptions to these conditions are pre-arranged visits to the New Hope Centre, the employment centre or the siblings’ registered pharmacy.

Kelly and Anthony are also banned under the ASBOs from carrying medical needles (syringes and injecting devices), or inciting others to carry needles for them.

Each ASBO will remain in place for two years. Kelly’s order came into immediate effect on 24 May, and Anthony’s will start when he is released from prison (date unknown). If they breach the conditions of the orders, Kelly and Anthony could face a substantial fine and/or up to five years in prison.

PC Marius York of Bracknell’s town centre patrol worked closely with Jo Simpkins, ASBO co-ordinator with the Community Safety team at Bracknell Forest Borough Council, as well as partners in the Drugs Action Team and the business community, to find a solution to problems caused by Kelly and Anthony Lewington.

Said PC York: “In partnership with Bracknell Business Against Crime (BBAC), we served an exclusion notice on Kelly and Anthony in February 2005, which was intended to prevent them stealing by banning them from shops within the BBAC initiative.

“However, the brother and sister ignored the notice and continued to shoplift. They then developed an alarming tendency to verbally threaten shop staff and security guards, saying they had medical needles on them.

“These verbal threats developed into incidents where syringes were produced and used to threaten staff.”

On 28 February 2006, Kelly and Anthony tried to steal computer printers from Currys in the Peel Centre, Bracknell. When they were challenged by staff outside the store, Anthony attempted to stab one of the staff members trying to detain him.

Fortunately, no-one was injured during the incident. Kelly and Anthony were arrested and remanded in custody. On 18 May, they were convicted of the theft and returned to prison. The ASBO application was adjourned until 24 May, when the District Judge granted the orders banning brother and sister from Bracknell town centre.

Ian Boswell, Community Safety Manager for Bracknell Forest Borough Council, said: “We are committed to working with our partners to make Bracknell a safer place to live and this is another example of the police and council working closely together. Whilst ASBOs are a last resort, we will continue to use them in circumstances where other tactics have failed.”

Inspector Andy Harris said “Now that these ASBOs are in place, the police will rigorously enforce them to ensure that people in the local community are protected.”

Thames Valley Police ~ Bracknell

Fancy emulating the fancy footwork of footballing heroes like John Terry or Frank Lampard?

This summer at Bracknell Leisure Centre, the annual football camps will be run by premiership champions Chelsea FC's soccer schools scheme.

The five day Bracknell camps will be open to boys and girls aged five to 14 between July 31 - August 4 and August 7-11, and includes lunch and a swim.

Chelsea's football in the community scheme has been running FA Charter Standard Soccer Schools around the South East for the last 13 years, and they have become increasingly popular among parents and children.

Cllr Iain McCracken, Executive Member for Bracknell Leisure and Corporate Services, said: "These football camps are very worthwhile and encourage young people to lead healthy and active lives.

"I'm sure the opportunity to achieve the successes of their favourite Chelsea and England players will be a major draw in a world cup year."

For more information please contact Bracknell Leisure Centre on 01344 454203 or visit www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/be

Bracknell Forest Borough Council

Four legged, furry friends took the place of their two legged counterparts last Sunday at a special service of thanksgiving for animals at the Holy Trinity Church in Bracknell.

The Mayor of the Borough of Bracknell Forest, Cllr Clifton Thompson and his Mayoress, Sue Thompson, were at the ceremony to join in with the service.

In a change from the normal Bracknell Sunday schedule, dogs, cats, guinea pigs, hamsters and tortoises were invited as the special guests at the Bracknell Forest church. They took part in hymns and played a special version of pet idol with the Rev Catherine Blundell. This was loosely connected to Pop Idol, where a panel of judges chose the best cat, dog and long-haired guinea pig.

Bracknell Cllr Clifton Thompson said: "It was lovely to see such a great turnout and that so many people brought their pets along with them. I think everybody, including the furry ones, really enjoyed themselves and it gave people the chance to give thanks for their faithful animal companions."

Bracknell Forest Borough Council

A new Bracknell neighbourhood initiative to support local people to tackle issues in their community was officially launched on top of the 3M tower in Bracknell last Thursday (18th May).

The launch involved painting out the graffiti from the roof structure before the hatch to the top of the tower was welded up.

The new initiative is called Take Pride, Make a Difference, and aims to encourage local Bracknell Forest residents to literally make a difference to their community by doing something about it, whether it is organising litter picks, or monitoring traffic for its speed or cleaning up grafitti.

The 3M tower launch included Timothy Wheadon, Chief Executive of Bracknell Forest Borough Council, Chief Inspector Rob Povey, Local Area Commander of Thames Valley Police and Cllr Peter North, Executive Member for Public Protection and Services.

The tower project was the work of volunteers. Comer Homes, the owner of the old 3M building, provided security, clear access to the building and resealed the building after the painting was complete. The Police and Borough Council donated volunteers to help with the painting, whilst the equipment and paint was donated by Municipal and District Repair Company (MDRC).

Take Pride is a joint scheme between Bracknell Borough Council and Thames Valley Police. Any local group can sign up to arrange an event or individuals can register to take part in any of the events taking place.

Issues brought up at the local Neighbourhood Forum meetings will be the focus of the Take Pride volunteers' work and volunteers will be recruited at the meetings.

The Police and Bracknell Council will support any local initiatives by helping with publicity and the recruitment of additional volunteers, providing equipment such as litter pickers, bin bags, graffiti removing kits and devices to measure the speed of motorists and by offering advice and training on how to use the equipment and organise the event.

Cllr Peter North said: "What has come out of meeting residents through the Neighbourhood Forum meetings is that they all have concerns local to their area. In some areas it has to do with speeding traffic and in others people are concerned about the amount of litter around. Take Pride is about engaging the local community and with the help of the Council and the Police getting people to organise their own initiatives which will tackle problems relevant to their local area."

Chief Inspector Rob Povey said: "We can provide the resources people need to set up community based events in their area. We would encourage people to come forward and volunteer to help their local communities, as we believe that they can make a real difference."

For more information about Take Pride or to sign up as a volunteer call Bracknell Forest Borough Council on: 01344 35 2000 or log onto www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/takepride

Alternatively, go along to your Neighbourhood Forum meeting. To find out when these are happening log onto www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/neighbourhoodforums.

Bracknell Forest Borough Council

Children from Fox Hill Primary School, Bracknell demonstrated their support of Walk to School week by showing that getting to school by foot makes a healthy heart.

They are among school pupils throughout Bracknell Forest who are asking their parents to leave the car at home and opt instead for a healthy stroll to school.

There will also be special assemblies in Bracknell schools throughout the week where speakers from the Council and Bracknell Forest Primary Care Trust will explain the health and environmental benefits of walking.

Walk to School week is promoting the fact that fewer cars making the regular morning trip will also mean those who are walking will be breathing cleaner air in a safer environment. More than two million children from across the country are expected to take part.

A poster which is being used in schools and libraries to promote Walk to School week was designed by a pupil from Crowthorne CE school. Ellen Hodges has been presented with a framed copy of it by the Council's school travel advisor Phillip Burke.

Cllr Mary Ballin, Executive Member for Bracknell Planning and Transportation, said: "Walking to school is a simple way for children to get some of the 60 minutes moderate exercise recommended for them.

"Regular exercise can help prevent heart disease, diabetes and asthma, and it also helps build strong bones which is essential when young people are growing."

Bracknell Forest Borough Council

Bracknell Forest Borough Council has launched a new service to help people applying for British citizenship.

Working in partnership with the Home Office, who has provided training for Bracknell Forest's registration services staff, the Council's nationality checking service means that applicants can bring their documentation for citizenship to the registration services offices at Bracknell Borough Council and have them checked and certified by specially trained staff, before being submitted to the Home Office on their behalf by special delivery. This means that people applying for British nationality can be assured that their applications are correctly completed and submitted with the correct fee. They also have the added comfort of knowing that they can keep their original documentation throughout the process.

Cllr Iain McCracken, Executive Member for Bracknell Leisure and Corporate Services at Bracknell Forest Borough Council, said: "This new service, not only for residents of Bracknell Forest, but from anywhere in the country, means that applicants for citizenship will have the peace of mind that their documents are being checked locally and are in safe hands. The service is aimed at making the process quicker and easier."

The nationality checking service will be provided at a cost, which is £40 per applicant (£60 for husband and wife and £75 for a family with two children).

For more information contact Bracknell Forest Registration Services on: 01344 352052

Bracknell Forest Borough Council

People and organisations from across Bracknell Forest are being invited to take part in the new Going Green environmental event in Lily Hill Park.

The Bracknell Forest Environment Partnership is running a free fun-filled day out for the whole family on Sunday, July 16 from 10am-4pm.

There will be lots of hands-on activities, games and demonstrations on environmental themes. Organisers hope people will have a good day out, and learn more about the environment and how we can protect and enhance it.

It is supported by an Awards for All grant from the National Lottery, although the partnership is still hoping to attract additional corporate sponsors.

Bracknell Forest Environment Partnership is made up of businesses, voluntary groups, Bracknell Forest Borough Council, the Environment Agency and other organisations all with an interest in environmental issues.

There is still space at Going Green for community groups, schools, charities and businesses who have an interest in the environment, and want to join in and run activities, demonstrations or a stall on environmental issues.

Activities already confirmed including making arts and crafts from recycled materials, a display of local wildlife specimens from Reading museum, guided walks around the park, climate change bingo, a demonstration of water efficient gardening and a fire engine and display on how to prevent forest and wood fires.

Gillian Cheetham, chair of Bracknell and District Gardening Club for the Able and Disabled, and chair of the Going Green organising committee, said: "Going Green is set to be a fantastic event and we want as many different groups or organisations to support us. Please take part in the event and we can all go green together."

Cllr Mary Ballin, Executive Member for Bracknell Planning and the Environment, said: "This event gives the opportunity for environmentally friendly organisations to teach members of the public about the best way to go green. I hope a wide range of groups will take advantage of this and join us."

For further information visit www.bracknellgoinggreen.org.uk

Bracknell Forest Borough Council

Two pupils from Bracknell Meadow Vale School have seen their artwork turned into new road signs.

Katie Hatchett and Charlotte Kidd won a competition to design signs to encourage drivers to slow to the new 20mph limit around the Bracknell school.

Their designs were chosen and can now be seen on Moordale Avenue and Priestwood Avenue.

The roads surrounding the school have recently undergone a series of traffic calming measures to reduce the speed of cars, including speed humps, a toucan crossing and shared foot and cycleways.

It is hoped that these improvements to the infrastructure around Meadow Vale will enable more children to walk or cycle to the school - aiding a healthier lifestyle and reducing congestion.

The winning pupils will be presented with their own sign to keep and a goody bag of cycling accessories from Bracknell Cllr Mary Ballin, Executive Member for Planning and the Environment, at a special assembly at the school.

Nigel Duncan, headteacher at Meadow Vale School, Bracknell said: "We had a big response to the design competition, and I think the children really liked the idea that their art would be made into signs that will stand outside the school for all to see."

Bracknell Cllr Ballin said: "I think the signs look really great. Drivers who see the signs should appreciate the children here want them to slow down and drive carefully when they are passing the school."

Bracknell Forest Borough Council

Bracknell Forest Borough Council was able to highlight its role at the cutting edge of e-government at this year's local e-gov EXPO for senior local government decision-makers.

Bracknell Forest is at the forefront of smartcard technology with its pioneering E+ card and also led the National Smartcard project which produced software called SmartConnect.

The Council acquired the rights to sell SmartConnect to other councils to help them set up their own smartcards.

Cllr Paul Bettison, Leader of the Bracknell Council, opened the two-day event which brought together 1300 senior managers and ICT specialists involved in implementing electronic government in UK councils.

The four key themes for this year's EXPO were innovation, transformation, take-up and efficiency together with other cross-cutting initiatives such as procurement, social inclusion and mobile working.

As well as high profile speakers EXPO included workshops and examples of best practice as well as demonstrations from leading e-government service providers.

Bracknell Cllr Bettison said: "E-government is about improving access to council services and making a difference to how people interact with their council.

"It's also about doing it in the most efficient way possible and councils are taking big strides forward all the time.

"EXPO is the biggest e-government event in the UK and it gave us all a chance to share ideas and best practice to improve the delivery of council services by electronic means.

"With our E+ card and our leading role in the national projects, Bracknell Forest has a great story to tell and I took the opportunity to share our successes with colleagues in other authorities."

The local Bracknell e-gov partnership between local authorities and the government has been running for five years. During this time councils have improved how they interact electronically with stakeholders.

The partnership estimates some 97% of English councils are now e-enabled and have already delivered efficiency savings of approximately £1.9 billion through improved use of electronic government.

This year's EXPO was held on April 5 and 6 at the ExCel exhibition centre in Docklands, London. It ended with a celebration dinner at the famous Painted hall in the Royal Navy Dockyards, Greenwich.

For more information about the local e-gov partnership and national projects visit www.localegovnp.org.uk

Bracknell Forest Borough Council

Foster carers are being invited to become ambassadors to help recruit more Bracknell carers during national Foster Care Fortnight (May 8 to 21).

Bracknell Forest Borough Council's Family Placement Team has designed a word-of-mouth pack (WOM-pack) that's being given to foster carers to hand out when friends, family, neighbours or work colleagues ask them about fostering.

The Bracknell pack contains information about how people of all backgrounds can become foster carers and answers questions about what fostering involves.

It also contains business cards that can be carried in a wallet or purse and handed out to encourage people to contact the family placement team or check out the Council's website.

As well as lots of background information, the website also includes a no-obligation, online expression of interest form.

Around 50 packs have been handed out to local foster carers so far and the team is also planning to use them at promotional events and open evenings too.

The next open evening will be held on July 13 at Bracknell Family Centre, Warfield Road, Bracknell from 7 to 9pm.

Juliette Thomas, Bracknell Family Placement Team Leader said: "We're hoping the WOM-packs will help existing foster carers to help us encourage others to think about fostering.

"Our foster carers have a great story to tell about the rewards and challenges of the job.

"Anyone can apply to foster and by showing how fostering can fit into every day life and sit happily with jobs and families we hope to get even more people interested."

Foster Care Fortnight is the national campaign organised by fostering charity the Fostering Network.

Fore more information about becoming a foster carer or the open evening in July call 01344 351582, email: fostering@bracknell-forest.gov.uk or visit www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/fosteringandadoption

Bracknell Forest Borough Council

A summer house in Lily Hill Park, Bracknell has been restored after mindless vandals caused £6,000 of damage.

Tiles on the roof were pushed off, there was graffiti and a purpose-built bench was set on fire on Easter Sunday. It has been vandalised three times since it was completed just three months ago.

The entire roof had to be taken off so it could be lined underneath, to stop the tiles being pushed from below, and the bench - which was made from wood from the Bracknell park - had to be sanded down to remove the fire damage.

Due to the ongoing vandalism, Lily Hill staff are advertising the police non-emergency contact number and are intending to use local bye-laws against anyone caught damaging the park.

The summer house was built as part of the park's £2million lottery-funded restoration. It had already been regularly used as an open air classroom for dozens of school children and as a quiet retreat for reflection by other residents.

Bracknell Park officer Richard Scrivener said: "The summer house is a terrific addition to the park and its restoration, unfortunately it has become a magnet for mindless vandalism.

"We are determined to adopt a more robust stance in securing the well-being of what is much valued public property. The stupidity of a few is not going to spoil the enjoyment of hundreds of people."

Cllr Iain McCracken, Executive Member for Bracknell Leisure and Corporate Services, said: "Vandalism of any kind should not and will not be tolerated. Officers of the Council and conservation volunteers have spent countless hours faithfully restoring our park to its former state and I know from the comments made to me, both from residents within my ward and from visitors to the park, the restoration is much admired and greatly enjoyed.

"Don't let the moronic few spoil our parks and countryside. If you see vandalism taking place in any public area, please call the police on 0845 8505505."

Bracknell Forest Borough Council

Bracknell Cllrs McCracken and Ryder at the opening of Longhill Skate ParkThe new Longhill Skate Park was officially opened on Thursday, May 4, by Cllr Jacqui Ryder, then Mayor of the Borough of Bracknell Forest, and Cllr Iain McCracken, Executive Member for Leisure and Corporate Services.

They were joined by two professional skaters, one professional BMX rider as well as many local Bracknell skaters who all gave displays of their skills.

The new ramps include a wide-range of equipment, including an open-ended bowl, flat banks, roll-ins, quarter pipes, vert wall, rainbow rail, volcano, spine, jump-box and driveway.

The improvements followed an extensive consultation which made sure the new facility was what the park users needed. It can be used by BMX bikers, in-line skaters and skateboarders.

Bracknell Cllr McCracken said: "The new facilities in Longhill Park are superb and I am glad we have provided its users with what they wanted."

Cllr Ryder said: "Watching the professionals use the ramps was incredible. I really hope young people from Bracknell Forest can use the ramps to reach the same level of success."

Bracknell Forest Borough Council

For the second time in a month, Bracknell police and their partners have closed a “crack house” using the new Anti-Social Behaviour Act of 2003.

The closure of the property in Tarnbrook Way, Crown Wood, yesterday (15/5) was the result of close co-operation between Bracknell police officers and the Bracknell Forest Community Safety Team, along with the letting agency which manages the property.

An order to close down the property was granted at Bracknell Magistrates’ Court yesterday (15/5), where Inspector Simon Bowden and PC Terry McKean, neighbourhood officer for Crown Wood, gave evidence.

On Thursday 11 May, Supt. Mike Ismay, silver commander for Operation Falcon*, authorised the issuing of a closure notice, which led to yesterday’s court hearing.

The closure notice was issued to the tenant of 16 Tarnbrook Way on Sunday (14/5) by PC McKean.

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

Insp Simon Bowden, who has worked closely with Sgt Steve McSweeney and PC McKean, Bracknell neighbourhood officers, to bring about the closure, said: “No 16 Tarnbrook Way is a privately-owned property in a quiet residential street. Over the last three months, neighbouring residents have found used syringes in their bins, as well as being subjected to loud noise and constant comings and goings.”

No 16 Tarnbrook Way is managed by a private leasing company, which will not be named. However, their representative said that the company fully supports the closure and wishes to emphasise that it will not tolerate any illegal or anti-social behaviour in its properties.

“I plan to use this legislation as often is needed,” said Insp Bowden. “Anyone using or dealing Class A drugs from their home can expect a visit from the police.

“The public can help us by providing information about people and premises involved in crime. Call us on 0845 8 505 505, or if you would prefer to remain anonymous, call the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111.”

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

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

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

Thames Valley Police ~ Bracknell

Detectives are appealing for witnesses following two similar robberies at off-licences in Bracknell at the weekend.

The first incident happened at Unwins, Bullbrook Row, Bracknell at around 3.25pm on Saturday (13/5). A man entered the shop via the front door and walked over to the counter, where he threatened staff with a knife to open the till.

The victim handed over a sum of cash and the man left on foot towards Bay Road.

The following day (14/5), a similar incident occurred at Huttons wine shop, Binfield Road, Garth, Bracknell at around 5.45pm. Again, the offender threatened staff with a knife and made off with a sum of money.

On both occasions, the offender wore a black stocking which covered his face. He wore dark clothing and is around 6ft.

A number of officers, including the police dog, were involved in the search for forensic evidence following the two robberies.

Bracknell DC Wendy Cushing, officer investigating, said: “I am appealing for anyone with information about either or both incidents to come forward immediately.

“Thankfully, nobody was injured though needless to say the victims were left shaken.”

Anyone with information is being urged to contact DC Cushing via the 24-hour Police Enquiry Centre via 0845 8 505 505. Those who do not wish to speak to police or leave their name should call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Note: A 28 year-old man is currently on police bail until Thursday (18/5) in relation to the first incident. He was arrested on suspicion of robbery at approximately 4pm on 13/5.

Thames Valley Police ~ Bracknell

Bracknell Blue School of Motoring has been in operation now for several years. All our instructors are patient and calm, with a friendly and professional approach. The Blue goal is to provide a structured and professional training programme to all our students, which will cover all aspects of the driving syllabus, this will enable you to develop as a safer driver for the rest of your life.

The Bracknell school has a good reputation for providing up to date practical lessons for anyone wishing to learn to drive. Whether it be basic driving skills or a more advanced approach, which you may require, Blue will be able to meet your needs.

We provide a carefully structured training programme to fully prepare you for your theory and practical tests. There are a large number of training aides in the market place, and we can suggest the most suitable products for you.
You will be guided through each section of the DSA syllabus to ensure that you are confident on all aspects of the theory and practical parts, prior to making your first attempt.

If for any reason your Bracknell instructor has any doubts about your ability to complete either the theory or practical tests, then he/she would recommend changing the date and then giving you more time to practice and prepare.

Blue School of Motoring
PO Box 3995
Bracknell
Berkshire
RG42 3YX
Ph : 01344 307616
M: 0775 4841464
Email: info@blueschoolofmotoring.com; www.blueschoolofmotoring.com

Whether you’re a Bracknell gardening enthusiast, simply want to buy a pretty patio pot or need to know how the hosepipe ban will affect your garden, then visit the Bracknell Garden Centre event on Friday 12 and Saturday 13 May.

Celebrating the onset of Summer and helping local residents gear up for Bracknell’s entry into the Britain in Bloom competition, the event brings into the town centre the Oaktree Nursery and Moss End Garden Centre as well as a host of garden related retailers and associations.

In addition to live demonstrations, there will be bedding plants, shrubs, trees, compost, lawnmowers and all types of gardening sundries on sale from retailers including Marks & Spencer, Inside ‘n’ Out, Pouncett’s Family Florist, Bracknell Gardening Club for the Able & Disabled and the New Cut Price Warehouse. Gardening experts from Bracknell Gardening Club for the Able & Disabled and Bracknell Forest Borough Council’s environment team will be also be on hand to offer advice on how to keep gardens looking luscious despite the hosepipe ban.

And if that isn’t enough, there’s also a free prize draw for the chance to win £500 worth of garden furniture from Bentalls – simply pick up an entry form at the event or see the Princess Square Information Desk for details.

Helen Barnett from the Bracknell Regeneration Partnership comments, “We’re delighted to be holding another Garden Centre event as we realise that not everyone is able to get out to the garden centres at this time of year, when they’re thinking about sprucing up their gardens and replanting their pots and borders. We’ve got a great mix of stalls for people to explore – and loads of useful advice for those wanting to get behind Bracknell’s entry into Britain in Bloom.”

There’s so much more to discover in Bracknell; indulge your green fingers, catch up with friends for an al fresco drink in Charles Square or shop for a new Summer outfit. There’s Bentalls, your favourite high street stores, over 40 independent retailers and plenty of car parking which is free on Sundays.

The Bracknell Garden Centre event will take place on Friday 12 and Saturday 13 May from 10am to 4pm. It will be located on Bracknell High Street, Crossway and Charles Square. For more information, visit the town centre information desk situated in Princess Square or log onto www.changebracknell.com.

Bracknell Forest Borough Council

Detectives are currently investigating a street robbery which happened in Bracknell last night (10/5).

Police were called at around 11.45pm to say that a man had been assaulted in Redvers Road, Easthampstead, Bracknell. It was also reported that the victim, aged 18, was robbed of his ring.

The victim sustained facial injuries as a result of the incident. He was treated at Frimley Park Hospital and is now recovering at home.

Bracknell Det Sgt Sarah Austin, officer investigating, said:” We are currently trying to establish exactly what happened and are pursuing several lines of enquiry.

“I would urge anyone who witnessed the incident or who has any information to contact police immediately.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Bracknell CID via the 24 hour Police Enquiry Centre number on 0845 8 505 505. Those who do not wish to speak to police or leave their name should call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Thames Valley Police ~ Bracknell

Bracknell Mayor, Jenny Borthwick, 16, and Diana Sefton Jenkins.Bracknell Forest Borough Council Mayor, Cllr Mrs Jacqui Ryder, presented awards for services to mentoring in the borough, last week, at the Open Learning Centre in Bracknell.

The Kate Sefton Jenkins Awards are given annually to people who are nominated for their mentoring successes.

This year the HFC Bank nominated Jenny Borthwick and Ryan Tucker from Garth Hill College and South East Berkshire Education Business Partnership nominated Gill Kelly from Easthamptead Park School.

Jenny won the competition and was awarded with a cheque for £200 to be put towards her future development, a trophy for her school and a plaque for her to keep. The runners-up, Ryan and Gill, each received a £25 gift voucher.

Bracknell Cllr Mrs Ryder, said: "I was delighted to be invited to present this award. Mentors are very valuable people to have available in the workplace and work wonders for up and coming employees of the future.

The Kate Sefton Jenkins Award begun after the death of Kate in 2002. She was a young and very enthusiastic mentor, who worked for Avis at the time.

Certificates and prizes from individual mentoring groups were also presented and other mentors attended from 3M, Fujitsu, HFC Bank and mentees from Garth Hill College, Easthampstead Park School and The Brakenhale School.

Kate's mother, Diana Sefton Jenkins, and aunt, Margaret Moss, also attended.

Bracknell Forest Borough Council

Fourteen teams of golfers put their putting skills to the test this week when they took part in the Bracknell Mayor's annual charity golf day at Mill Ride Golf Club in Ascot.

The event was held in aid of Sebastian's Action Trust, the charity supported by Cllr Mrs Jacqui Ryder, the Mayor of the Borough of Bracknell Forest, and it is hoped almost £4,000 was raised for this worthy cause.

The winning team at the event was the Flaming Emergency Specialists who won new golf bags each. Second place was taken by The Wokingham Times Old Boys who won a putter each.

The day ended with a slap-up meal and a charity auction in the club house where all competitors got together and shared stories about their day.

Bracknell Cllr Mrs Ryder said: "I was amazed at how much support we got for this year's annual charity golf day, which is an important event in the mayor's calendar. We all had a great day, and everyone was so generous and got involved in the good natured rivalry, while raising lots of money for Sebastian's Action Trust at the same time."

Bracknell Forest Borough Council

An operation designed to reduce anti-social behaviour and youth disorder is currently underway throughout the Bracknell Forest area.

Codenamed Operation Lascar, the Bracknell crackdown was launched last month and will continue throughout the summer. The operation is a response to problems in the area including groups of young people drinking, being verbally abusive and intimidating, causing a disturbance, throwing litter and causing criminal damage. There have also been cases of Bracknell youngsters outside shops asking adults to buy alcohol and cigarettes on their behalf.

Sergeant Graham Thorne from the Bracknell Neighbourhood Policing team, who is leading the operation, believes that the high-visibility police presence will provide reassurance to residents and deter nuisance behaviour.

He said: “Operation Lascar is designed to tackle anti-social behaviour and other criminal activity within Bracknell Forest.

“The message is clear: if you intend to act in an anti-social manner or commit crime, don’t come into the Bracknell Forest area.

“If you decide not to take this advice and commit an offence you can expect to be dealt with.

“Our aim is to ensure Bracknell Forest remains a safe and pleasant place for people to live, visit and work.”

To deal with any breaches of the law, officers will be using street warnings, fixed penalty notices and arrests. Officers will be identifying underage people in possession of alcohol and will seize it, people buying alcohol and passing it onto minors, and they will also be stop checking and taking the details of youths who are behaving in an anti-social manner.

Since the launch of Operation Lascar last month one arrest has been made, and on Friday 28 April officers seized 73 bottles and cans from underage youths in South Hill Park, Bracknell. Both actions prevented further anti-social behaviour and criminal activities.

Thames Valley Police ~ Bracknell

Two new Bracknell family trails have been introduced at The Look Out Discovery Centre which merge walking with education.

The Bracknell Family Explorer's Trail is a 45-60 minute walk suitable for four-to-seven-year-olds. It includes a nature scavenger hunt, learning about the trees in the forest and looking for animal tracks.

The Bracknell Family Discoverer's Trail is best suited for eight-to-12 year olds and is a really enjoyable walk lasting about one-and-a-half-hours. It is approximately two miles long.

Bracknell Walkers can learn all about the forest, heath, heather, pond life, mini beasts, forest sounds and more. The trail information includes questions and answers about wildlife.

Cllr Iain McCracken, Executive Member for Leisure and Corporate Services, said: "It is not only great to exercise by walking in the forest, it can also be a lot of fun.

"The Family Explorers Trail is not only ideal for learning new, informative and interesting facts about our countryside and wildlife it also helps us burn off calories, improve our circulation, mobility and balance; all this while having a great family outing."

Both trails are linked to the National Curriculum and are only £1.50 each. The trail includes a 10 per cent discount voucher for the gift shop.

The Bracknell Look Out Discovery Centre is also home to an exciting, fun hands-on, interactive science and nature exhibition. There are more than 70 exhibits, which are bright and appealing to all ages.

The exhibits are themed in five brilliant zones: sound and communication, light and colour, forces and movement, body and perception and woodland and water.

And interactive and fun show I Wanna Be A Bug has volunteers spinning webs, performing the Mexican wave and becoming cool bugs. It is on at weekends and in Bracknell Forest school holidays until July 25, with performances at 11am, 12noon, 2pm and 3.15pm.

The Bracknell Look Out also has an exciting children's play area, a picnic area and a coffee shop. Mountain bike hire is also available - please check times with the centre.

For more details, call 01344 354400, or visit www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/be

Bracknell Forest Borough Council

Bracknell Tenants’ and leaseholders’ views about the future of their homes are changing, according to the most recent survey carried out by Bracknell Forest Borough Council.

The change in opinion is particularly marked in those tenants who have received face-to-face information about the housing situation in Bracknell borough.

The survey results were heard by the Housing Steering Group, who met last night (Tuesday May 2) to discuss the future of housing.

Just under half of tenants (49%) now want to stay with Bracknell Council, with 29% supporting transfer to a housing association and 22% undecided.

But of tenants and leaseholders who had received a home visit from a housing officer, 42% thought that transferring to a housing association was the best option, while 38% wished to stay with the Council and 20% were undecided.

Among Bracknell tenants who attended roadshows or took part in the Housing Sounding Board there was more support for transfer than among tenants as a whole.

The survey, sent out in April, was returned by 28% of tenants and leaseholders. It also showed that in the event of a transfer going forward 74% would prefer to see a new Bracknell Forest housing association set up.

Linda Wells, Assistant Director Bracknell Sustainable Communities, said: “I’m pleased that over a quarter of tenants answered the survey and thank people for taking part in the consultation activities since January. We have been in direct contact with 25% of tenants so far and we want to continue to speak to everyone to provide as much information as possible. The more people find out the facts about transfer the less worried they seem to be.”

Cllr Birch, Executive Member for Bracknell Adult Services, Health Commissioning and Housing, said: “The financial position of the Council, if it continues to run housing, has become very difficult. We have to consider the future how improvements can best be made to the borough’s housing without cuts in other services being necessary, which is why we are talking with tenants and leaseholders about the option of a new locally-based not-for-profit housing association.

"We have to provide the information so that people can understand all about the decisions that lie ahead and why they must consider a local housing association as a real alternative to the Council running things.”

The Council’s Executive will meet to decide whether consultation should continue and if a ballot of tenants should be held. The decision will be based on the outcomes from detailed consultation with tenants and leaseholders and evidence heard by the Housing Steering Group.

Bracknell Forest Borough Council

Bracknell Leisure Centre is offering a fun-packed programme of affordable activities for children throughout the summer holidays.

All the Bracknell swimming pools will be open with a choice of courses catering for all abilities, from toddlers in the training pool to children with little or no experience right through to the more confident swimmer.

In the competition pool will be the popular dives, starts and turns class, and the stroke and stamina class which gives children the opportunity to work on their technique and stamina.

For swimmers looking to enter the swimming profession the National Pool Lifeguard Qualification, ASA level one Assistant Teacher award and STA level two certificate in Aquatic Teaching are running.

The ever popular Bracknell soccer camp and fun camps for children aged seven and over are back. The full day programme includes lunch and a swim. There is a discount if you book onto a camp before May 31.

There are also pick-up-a-racquet courses, fun sessions, trampolining, gymnastics, multi-sports, badminton, soccer dribblers and much more.

And Bracknell Leisure Centre is offering teen balance and cycling and instructor led sessions in the BodyWorks gym.

Cllr Iain McCracken, Executive Member for Bracknell Leisure and Corporate Services, said: "These popular courses are great for keeping children active and healthy, while letting them have fun at the same time.

"The courses offered by Bracknell Leisure Centre are an excellent way to keep children entertained throughout the summer holidays."

Book now to avoid disappointment or download the brochure from our website www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/be or call 01344 454203.

Bracknell Forest Borough Council

Bracknell Leisure Centre is offering adult swimming courses for people of all abilities this summer.

The five-week programmes will run on Thursday nights from August 3 until August 31.

The training pool will be hosting a non-swimmer course for absolute beginners and nervous swimmers. We'll be encouraging more experienced swimmers with the improver course and helping to brush up technique with the front crawl course.

In the competition pool we will be hosting a course for swimmers capable of swimming multiple lengths in every stroke.

Cllr Iain McCracken, Executive Member for Bracknell Leisure and Corporate Services, said: "Swimming is a really important skill and these courses are aimed at helping all age groups learn or improve their technique.

"It's an excellent form of non-stress exercise for the whole body so we encourage as many people as possible to take advantage of the great swimming pools we have in Bracknell Forest."

For more information call 01344 454203 or to download the brochure visit www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/be

Bracknell Forest Borough Council

Ottakars Book Shop,
17 Stanley Walk,
Charles Square,
Bracknell,
Berkshire,
RG12 1HA.

For Read Aloud Month Bracknell Ottakars are hosting a range of parties for 5-8 years olds. Kids can look forward to readings and will be encouraged to read from their favourite book; plus there are activities and games for everyone to enjoy.
With space limited to 10 per session book your place now! Contact Bracknell Ottakars on 01344 488124 for more information.

Saturday 6th May - Bracknell Rainbow Fairy Event (2 sessions – 10am & 3pm)
A reading from “Penny the Pony Fairy”, fancy dress, activity sheets and a statues party game

Saturday 13th May – Bracknell Horrid Henry Party (1 session – 10am)
A reading from “Horrid Henry & the Football Fiend” and a football party game

Saturday 20th May – Bracknell Worst Witch Party (1 session – 10am)
A reading from “Worst Witch saves the day,” plus activity sheets and a Magic Potion Treasure Hunt

Saturday May 27th - Bracknell Roald Dahl party (1 session – 10am)
A reading from “Revolting Rhymes” and the Bing Bong Word game

Ottakars Book Shop, Bracknell

Bracknell’s Garden Centre Event - 10am to 4pm
Friday 12th May and Saturday 13th May
Location: Bracknell High Street, Crossway & Charles Square

* Live demonstrations

* Advice on how to keep your garden looking luscious despite the hosepipe ban

* Flower arranging

* Gardening sundries on sale from retailers including Marks & Spencer, Inside ‘n’ Out, Pouncett’s Family Florist, Bracknell Gardening Club for the Able & Disabled and the New Cut Price Warehouse

* Free prize draw for the chance to win £500 worth of garden furniture from Bentalls

* Entertainment to include:

+ Live Steel Band

+ 'Daffodil' stilt walker

+ Children’s treasure hunt competition to win a family pass worth £30 to the Children's Action Farm in Newbury!

+ Refreshments available to buy at the barbecue stand

Bracknell Parents are being given the chance to make sure their baby and child seats are fitted correctly and safely.

Bracknell Forest Borough Council, Halfords and seat-manufacturers Britax are joining forces to give the free checks, outside Halfords in the Peel Centre, Skimped Hill, Bracknell, between 10am to 4pm on Saturday, May 6.

The checks are ahead of changes to the law over child car restraints.

From September it will be a legal requirement for toddlers aged under three and children under 1.35metres/4ft 5in to wear appropriate restraints while travelling in cars. This could include baby or child seats, or booster seats or cushions.

The measures are being introduced because an adult seat belt is designed for someone with an adult bone structure and who is 150cm or taller, so are not appropriate for children and could injure them in a crash.

The changes in the law could spare more than 2,000 deaths and injuries to children each year.

Cllr Mary Ballin, Executive Member for Bracknell Planning and Transportation, said: "All parents want to keep their children safe, and this annual event has been very valuable in helping parents make sure the seats are fitted correctly.

"Our safety officers are experienced and dedicated and look forward to seeing as many families as possible on May 6."

Bracknell Forest Borough Council

On Sunday 7th May the Churches of Warfield, Bracknell will be holding their annual combined service at Newbold College, Binfield, Bracknell starting at 10.30am.

Following the service the Fundraising Committee will be running an auction of promises. A wide range of items and promises will be auctioned off during a silent auction, some lots include designer lamps, holiday home rental, babysitting services, hairdressing, dog walking plus loads more. All monies raised will go to the Warfield Church Parish Rooms project.

A full programme of activities for children of all ages, during the Service.

Warfield Churches Fundraising Committee ~ Bracknell

Bracknell Forest primary school children, who took part in different fundraising efforts, handed over more than £3,800 to the Mayor's charity this week (Wednesday).

Children from Birch Hill Primary School, College Town Junior School, Meadow Vale Primary School, Sandy Lane Primary School and Wildridings Primary School, along with their headteachers, came to the Bracknell Forest Borough Council offices to hand over a joint cheque to Cllr Mrs Jacqui Ryder, the Mayor of the Borough of Bracknell Forest, for her chosen charity, Sebastian's Action Trust. Four other schools helped with fundraising, but were not able to attend the cheque presentation. They were Broadmoor Primary School, Cranbourne Primary Schools, Holly Spring Junior Schools and Wooden Hill Primary School.

The majority of the money raised by pupils came from mufti days held at school. However, some schools also organised its own fundraising and at Meadow Vale Primary School the pupils raised money by seeing how many 20 pence pieces they could fit in a Smarties tube. In addition, Headteacher, Nigel Duncan, will be running the Bracknell Half Marathon next month and donating all money he raises to Sebastian's Action Trust.

At Sandy Lane School the governors, teachers and parents took part in a sponsored walk and the children took part in a concert to raise money.

College Town Junior School children raised money a from Christmas concerts and they also sang Christmas carols outside the Meadows shopping centre in Sandhurst in December.

Bracknell Cllr Mrs Ryder, said: "These young people, as well as their teachers and parents, have overwhelmed me with the effort they have put into fundraising for my charity. I would like to extend a big thank you to each and every one of them for coming up with such a substantial amount of money and for choosing to support Sebastian's Action Trust, through their fundraising."

Bracknell Forest Borough Council

Bracknell Forest residents now have access to a wealth of information about councillors, committees and decisions made at Bracknell Forest Borough Council through a new internet service.

The new system, called modern.gov, is available by logging onto www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk. It means that agendas and minutes for all Bracknell Council meetings can now be published to the web instantly. Internet users can also subscribe to email alerts about particular committees or items relating to a specific ward, they are interested in.

Peter Driver, Head of Democratic and Support Services at Bracknell Forest Borough Council, explained: “This new product makes it far easier to find out about members and their decisions at meetings and committees. There is an easy-to-use search facility covering all committee and executive decisions going back to 2001."

“Ultimately, the aim is to reduce the amount of paper copies circulated around the Council and elsewhere as people will find all they need on the website.”

Cllr Iain McCracken, Executive Member for Bracknell Leisure and Corporate Services, said: "This new service means that our residents can easily find out about which Council meetings are taking place, their agendas and the minutes subsequently taken. They can also find out about their local councillor and receive information by email."

To explore the range of information available on the website go to http://democratic.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/uuCoverPage.asp?bcr=1

Bracknell Forest Borough Council