Bracknell

1st floor,
Princess Square,
Bracknell Town Centre
Monday 22nd October – Friday 26th October
11.00am – 1pm, 2.00pm – 4pm daily

Free Makendoo workshops and face painting for kids to get creative and have fun this Hallowe’en.

Talk of witches and wizards, ghouls and ghosts can only mean one thing – it’s nearly Hallowe’en. To celebrate all things spooky, Bracknell Town Centre is putting on free Makendoo workshops for kids during this October half-term. Your little ones can create a range of chilling cards, hideous hats or macabre masks.

Plus a team of face painters will be on hand to help transform kids into monsters, princesses or vampires - giving them lots of great ideas for the 31st.

Kids can ‘Makendoo’ as many times as they like - so for hassle-free entertainment for the kids this half-term, bring them to Bracknell with a responsible adult to supervise children at all times.

And with over 190 favourite retailers and big brands, open seven days a week and free parking on Sundays, there’s much more to Bracknell.

Bracknell Regeneration Partnership

Plans for the £750 million regeneration of Bracknell town centre took a step forward last night (Thursday), when the Planning and Highways Committee of Bracknell Forest Borough Council granted permission for variations to the initial outline planning permission secured by the Bracknell Regeneration Partnership.

New Bracknell shops, restaurants, cafes and bars as well as homes, business accommodation and improved public open spaces are included in the proposals. The regeneration will also deliver highway and public transport improvements, and new public buildings, including a larger town centre library.

Cllr Paul Bettison, Leader of Bracknell Forest Borough Council, said: “The regeneration is in sight and we are looking forward to seeing the much needed transformation of Bracknell town centre in the near future.

David Gregory, Development Manager at BRP, added: “This consent takes the team another step closer to starting the regeneration project. We are now progressing the designs for the retail development in the north of the town. We are hard at work behind the scenes on the many details required for the development and we thank Bracknell residents for their continued support for the regeneration.”

Whilst BRP works towards starting on site progress is being made on a number of other key developments set to change the face of Bracknell.

Designs are now being drawn up for the replacement of the key public buildings that will have to be moved to make way for the regeneration scheme, including the police, Magistrates’ Court, Royal British Legion, council offices and Bracknell Library.

Nicholas Hare Associates have been selected as the architects for the new Bracknell civic centre. The highly regarded company has been responsible for projects such as the Oval Basin in Cardiff and the Royal Courts in Guernsey.

Construction work has started on the £36 million redevelopment of Bracknell and Wokingham College in the town centre.

Howard O’Keefe, Principal and Chief Executive of the College, said: “Our vision is of a new campus, a world class facility of which all local people can be proud and from which they will benefit. The design of the new building is modern and distinctive, making a fitting backdrop to the “eastern gateway” to Bracknell town centre as it approaches regeneration.”

Plans are also being developed to rebuild Garth Hill College to the south of Bracknell town centre with a decision by the Council’s Executive to go-ahead with the procurement of the £33 million project.

Elsewhere in the Bracknell town centre, Camp Moss Properties Ltd has submitted a planning application for the redevelopment of properties in Market Street, which is now being considered by the Council. Provided the scheme complies with outline planning permission, this could bring a much-needed facelift to this part of town.

Ed Goodwin, Managing Director, said: “We have now submitted our planning application for a mixed-use development, which will create new business, retail, leisure and homes on one of the major sites in the town centre. If we are successful in our planning application, we would hope to make a start as soon as possible in the New Year. We are extremely excited about our proposed development and believe it will create a modern and innovative frontage for the western approach to the new Bracknell town centre.”

Two weeks ago the owners of the former Bracknell 3M building, Comer Homes, also released pictures of their proposals to demolish the existing building and replace it with luxury apartments. Any scheme would need to provide for the existing indoor market and fit within the overall master plan for the area. This is another clear sign of commitment to the regeneration of Bracknell town centre.

The former Met Office roundabout is also being transformed with the new Celsius development.

Visitors will already have seen signs of the Bracknell regeneration starting to happen, with ground investigations works being carried out in bore holes across the town centre. The important work will establish the make-up of the earth beneath the town centre ahead of construction beginning.

Both BRP and the Council are working hard to make Bracknell a successful and vibrant town even before the regeneration. New national brands have recently been attracted to the town centre by BRP including Bay Trading with Dolcis, Miss Selfridge, BBs Coffee and Muffins, Caffé Nero in Bentalls, and Thorntons.

Bracknell Forest Borough Council

Bracknell Forest residents are being invited to have their say about the priorities of their Council over the next four years.

The Executive at Bracknell Forest Borough Council has developed new key priorities and objective following the local elections in May, and it now wants the views of local people before deciding whether to formally adopt them.

This is important as it will shape and influence the Council’s work over the next four years and the action it takes.

The Council’s four proposed over-arching priorities are:

* Priority one: a town centre fit for the 21st century;
* Priority two: protecting and enhancing our environment;
* Priority three: promoting health and achievement;
* Priority four: safe and secure.

The four priorities encompass the Council’s ten proposed medium term objectives for 2007 - 2011 as follows:

1. To build a vibrant Bracknell town centre that residents are proud of;
2. To keep our parks, open spaces and leisure facilities accessible and attractive;
3. To promote sustainable housing and infrastructure development;
4. Keep Bracknell Forest clean and green;
5. To improve health and well being within the Borough;
6. To improve the outcomes for children and families through the Children and Young People’s Plan;
7. Seek to ensure that every resident feels included and able to access the services they need;
8. To reduce crime and increase people’s sense of safety in the Borough;
9. To promote independence and choice for vulnerable adults and older people;
10. To be accountable and provide excellent value for money.

Cllr Paul Bettison, leader of Bracknell Council, said: “We are keen to hear feedback from local people about what we believe we should be working on, so that we can continue to make Bracknell Forest a great place to live, work and visit.”

Bracknell Forest Borough Council

Green fingered Bracknell enthusiasts were awarded for their flowery efforts today last Friday (21st September) when the results of the annual Your Gardens competition were announced.

The local gardening competition organised by Bracknell Forest Borough Council and sponsored by Bracknell Regeneration Partnership announced this year’s lucky winners at the Your Gardens Awards held at The Grange Hotel.

Despite this summer's watery weather conditions there was still an array of glorious gardens within Bracknell Forest which impressed the judges.

The Your Gardens competition is not only aimed at making the borough more visually interesting but is also central to Bracknell Forest’s entry into the regional Britain in Bloom competition. Bracknell was awarded the second place silver guild award when the results for this were announced at the beginning of the month. The Council also won awards for the best for water conservation and best for commercial involvement.

Cllr Iain McCracken. Executive Member for Bracknell Leisure and Corporate Services at Bracknell Forest Borough Council, said: “I am always impressed by the high standards and inventiveness we see in the entries. Residential gardens play such an important role in the wider environment so it’s great to see residents making such a huge effort.

“As with previous years it’s been extremely difficult for the panel to pick the winners but we wouldn’t have it any other way. My thanks to BRP for their continuing support and to my fellow judges for our lively debate."

Main category winners are as follows:

* Best front garden - Mr Andrew Radgick, Bullbrook
* Best community garden - Montgomery of Alamein Court, Bullbrook
* Best commercial premises - The New Leathern Bottle, Warfield
* Best children’s garden (group) - Sandy Lane Primary School, Priestwood
* Best children’s garden (individual) - Katie Parker, Great Hollands
* Tallest sunflower - still to be measured
* Judges discretionary awards were also given to:
* Best floral display - The New Leathern Bottle, Warfield
* Best use of space - Barbara McMinnies, Hanworth
* Best wildlife garden - College Town Junior School, Sandhurst
* Best community team working - Montgomery of Alamein Court, Bullbrook
* Best Water conservation initiative - Sally Brown, Forest Park
* The Terry Mills Award for the most environmentally friendly garden - Sandy Lane Primary School, Priestwood
* Judges also recognised the achievements of Uplands Primary School in Sandhurst as best newcomer and of 10-year-old Jamie Read from Sandhurst was awarded the novelty award after impressing judges with a formal bedding display of the St George’s Flag.

Bracknell Forest Borough Council

Bracknell Forest residents who raise their local concerns at neighbourhood forums are seeing how it can make a real difference to their communities.

The latest round of forums will take place in all of the Bracknell borough's 14 neighbourhoods, starting on October 1.

The forums are organised by neighbourhood action groups, Bracknell Forest Borough Council and Thames Valley Police. They give residents an effective voice and increased influence over what happens where they live.

Issues raised are picked up by the neighbourhood action group, who work with the Council, police and other partners to take action wherever possible.

The forums have been running in Bracknell Forest for two years, and their successes include:

Binfield

The speed limit in Tilehurst Lane is set to be cut from 40mph to 30mph next year after Binfield neighbourhood action group worked with the Council's highways team and the police to collect speed evidence and assess different options.

Priestwood and Garth

The neighbourhood action group asked local Take Pride volunteers to run a local litter pick. The Council supplied the equipment and arranged for the nine sacks of rubbish to be collected.

Crowthorne

Local neighbourhood action group members suggested that a film night was held for teenagers. Local police community support officer Ivana Houska organised the event and arranged sponsorship and donations from businesses.

Sandhurst, Owlsmoor and College Town

SpeedWatch is running in three communities in the south of Bracknell Forest using portable speed indication devices to measure traffic speeds. At a recent session at the Maybrick Road and A34 junction, more than 85 vehicles were found to be breaking the speed limit.

Great Hollands

The recycling banks in Great Hollands Square are being emptied more often, following a request from the local neighbourhood action group.

Cllr Iain McCracken, Executive Member for Leisure, Corporate Services and Public Protection, said: "Our neighbourhood action groups, of which there are 14 across the borough, are a vital component, a voice if you will, of our community, made up as they are of residents, borough and town or parish councillors, Council officers and the police.

"As an authority we have always listened to our residents concerns and when the Binfield NAG research identified there was a need to reduce the speed limit in Tilehurst Lane we were happy to support the initiative.

"I would like to take this opportunity to invite residents to join their NAG or come to their neighbourhood forums and express their views and concerns."

For more information about neighbourhood forums and action groups, call 01344 352000 or visit www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/neighbourhoodforums

Neighbourhood forum dates are:

Binfield neighbourhood forum

Thursday, October 11, 7.30pm - Binfield Primary School.

Birch Hill and Hanworth neighbourhood forum

Wednesday, October 10, 7.30pm - Birch Hill Primary School.

Bullbrook neighbourhood forum

Monday, November 12, 7.30pm - Holly Spring Junior School.

Central Sandhurst and Little Sandhurst neighbourhood forum

Tuesday, October 2, 7.30pm - Sandhurst Town Council.

Crown Wood and Forest Park neighbourhood forum

Monday, October 15, 7.30 pm - Crown Wood Primary School.

Crowthorne neighbourhood forum

Tuesday, November 27, 7.30pm - Crowthorne Parish Hall.

Easthampstead and Wildridings neighbourhood forum

Thursday, November 29, 7.30pm - Easthampstead Baptist Church.

Great Hollands neighbourhood forum

Saturday, November 3, 10am - Great Hollands Primary School.

Martins Heron, The Warren and Harmans Water neighbourhood forum

Monday, October 29, 7.30pm - Martins Heron Community Centre (change from the advertised time).

Owlsmoor and College Town neighbourhood forum

Tuesday, November 13, 7.30pm - Owlsmoor Primary School.

Priestwood and Garth neighbourhood forum

Wednesday, October 17, 7.30pm - Priestwood Community Centre.

Town centre neighbourhood forum

Monday, October 8, 6pm - St Josephs Church Hall.

Warfield neighbourhood forum

Saturday, October 6, 10am - Whitegrove Youth and Community Centre.

Winkfield, Cranbourne and North Ascot neighbourhood forum

Tuesday, October 9, 7.30pm - Ascot Heath Junior School.

Bracknell Forest Borough

Staff starting at Bracknell Forest Borough Council's schools for the first time were given a warm welcome to the borough yesterday (Wednesday September 19).

The new arrivals were invited to a special welcome event hosted by Bracknell Cllr Alan Ward, Executive Member for Education and Libraries, and staff from the Education, Children's Services and Libraries department at Easthampstead Park Education Centre.

Over 60 newly qualified teachers along with other new starters including more experienced teachers, teaching support staff and new headteachers were given an overview of the borough and the services Bracknell Council provides to schools.

Tony Eccleston said: "It is always a pleasure to welcome new members of staff to the borough and this annual event gives us the chance to explain the wide range of services we provide to all of our schools.

"Many of these services will be evident in the classroom from an early stage but it is important new staff also know about the other things we do, such as advice for teachers on the curriculum.

"I wish all of the teachers every success."

Bracknell Cllr Alan Ward said: "I was thrilled to meet the new, enthusiastic members of staff.

"All of them will play a key role in continuing to raise standards across Bracknell Forest and they can be confident that the Council will be there to support them."

A number of new headteachers have taken up post in the Council's schools this term.

Catherine Bates is the new headteacher of Ascot Heath Infant School, Sarah Theaker takes over at Ascot Heath Junior School, Keith Grainger has started at Garth Hill College and Trudi Simmons will take up her post at College Town Infant School in January.

A new co-headteacher, Julia Evans, has started at Wildridings Primary School while two acting headteachers are sharing responsibility at Cranbourne Primary School.

Bracknell Forest Borough Council

Bracknell Forest residents can now find out what's on, search for a job, check bus and train timetables and even book a doctor's appointment using a new digital TV service.

The new service has been launched by Bracknell Forest Borough Council to increase access to electronic services to people living in the borough.

Residents can now use digital TV to:

- Find out about local events and activities;

- Find contact details and opening times for Council services;

- Search for jobs locally or across the country using the Job Centre Plus database;

- Access train and bus timetables;

- Access the Citizen’s Advice Bureau ;

- Book a doctor’s appointment (subject to the GP surgery’s participation).

Cllr Iain McCracken, Executive Member for Bracknell Corporate Services, said: "Residents can already chose to do business with us 24 hours-day by using our online services. But we know not everyone in the borough has access to the internet so we hope this digital TV channel will help more residents to access our services when it is convenient to them."

Bracknell Forest Borough Council

By now all eligible residents will have received their annual voters forms, it is essential they are returned to Bracknell Forest Borough Council by October 17 to ensure they have a voice in any elections from December 1.

Every home in the borough should have received the form, which sets out the information which residents are required by law to provide.

If the voters' information on the form is unchanged households should confirm their details by calling the freephone telephone number 0800 197 7684 or visit www.registerbyinternet.com/bfbc, as this saves the Council time and money and the form does not need to be sent back.

To make changes, amend the form, sign it and return it to Bracknell Council either by post or fax it to 01344 352810.

If an election is called between the end of September and when the new register of electors comes into force on December 1, special registration details will be available on the Council's website.

Cllr Iain McCracken, Executive Member for Bracknell Leisure, Corporate Services and Public Protection, said: "It is vital we hear from all households so we can ensure everyone who is entitled to a say can vote in elections.

"If you have not yet done so, please make sure the form is returned to the Council as soon as you can."

For help or advice on completing the form contact: 01344 352079 or email: electoral.registration@bracknell-forest.gov.uk

Bracknell Forest Borough Council

Bracknell Forest Mayor, Cllr Mrs Gill Birch, signs the charter with Sandhurst Town Council Mayor, Cllr Nick Allen The first official Town and Parish Council Charter was signed by the Mayor of the Borough of Bracknell Forest and Sandhurst Town Council Mayor on Wednesday (September 12) to commit both councils to working in together for the benefit of residents.

Bracknell Forest Borough Council and Sandhurst Town Council decided to work closely together a year ago by entering a pilot charter. Following the successful partnership it was decided to make the commitment to work together official by signing Bracknell Forest's first full Town and Parish Council Charter - an agreement which is used by town, parish and borough councils across the country.

The charter, which was signed at a meeting of the Parish and Town Council's Liaison Group, makes stronger links between the two councils for communicating with residents and jointly consulting them on issues which may impact on their well-being, environment and the society which they have chosen to liven in.

It will also help both councils continue to deliver and monitor quality services to residents, visitors, and businesses in the Sandhurst area together rather than separately - meaning services are not duplicated but strengthened.

The signing of the Charter marks the first step in creating even closer links between Bracknell borough council and the six town and parish councils in the borough. It is hoped that charters with the other parish and town councils will be entered into in the near future.

Cllr Mrs Gill Birch, Mayor of the Borough of Bracknell Forest, said: ""This Charter recognises how important it is for the borough council to work closely with town and parish councils in the area.

"It makes it clear what is expected of each council and where responsibilities for certain services lie - which can only strengthen the quality services we already provide to our residents. I'm delighted Sandhurst Town Council - which is a recognised Quality Town Council - has been the first to sign the charter with us, and I look forward to seeing other town and parish councils enter charters with us in the future."

Cllr Nick Allen, Mayor of Sandhurst Town Council said, "As a Quality Status Council, Sandhurst Town Council is very pleased to sign the Charter with Bracknell Forest Borough Council.

"This Charter recognises the excellent working relationship between Sandhurst Town Council and Bracknell Forest Borough Council, and gives us a solid platform to further develop our joint work to achieve benefits for the communities that we jointly serve."

Bracknell Forest Borough Council

Bracknell Forest secondary schools are opening their doors over the next few weeks to show prospective pupils and their parents around.

Each secondary school in the borough will hold an open day or evening and some have separate information sessions just for parents where they can talk to the headteacher.

Year six pupils and their parents are encouraged to look round the schools in preparation for beginning their secondary education next year.

Tony Eccleston, Director of Bracknell Education and Education, said: "These days are the perfect opportunity for parents and pupils to look around Bracknell Forest's fantastic secondary schools.

"The open evenings are a chance to see the school in action, as if it were a normal school day.

"There will be science experiments, art work on display and lesson tasters. Current pupils and teachers will be on hand to answer any questions."

Alan Ward, Executive Member for Bracknell Education and Libraries, said: "The borough has a great variety of secondary schools and I urge year six pupils and their parents to take the opportunity to visit Bracknell Forest's schools.

"Every school is different but each has something special to offer pupils. All our schools currently have a great vibrancy and enthusiasm about them and I hope pupils and parents take the opportunity to have a look around them.

"I hope parents and pupils take the time to visit the borough's schools."

Please contact the schools directly for more information.

Easthampstead Park School 01344 304567

Sandhurst School 01344 775678

Garth Hill College 01344 421122

Brackenhale School 01344 423041

Ranelagh School 01344 421233

Edgbarrow School 01344 772658

Bracknell Forest Borough Council

Bracknell Forest residents can make the most of the cold months with exciting courses at Bracknell Leisure Centre this autumn.

The leisure centre has a jam-packed schedule for both adults and children which runs until Christmas.

Childrens courses include football, badminton, team gym, ballet and tumblers plus much more.

For adults the popular pilates, yoga and badminton return, and for teenagers looking to get into fitness there are balance, circuits and cycling sessions for 12-16 year olds.

And for people who don't mind getting wet there are swimming courses for all abilities and ages from six months to adults.

Cllr Iain McCracken, Executive Member for Bracknell Leisure, Corporate Services and Public Protection, said: "There are so many classes and courses on offer - why not see what Bracknell Leisure Centre has to offer. I'm sure there will be something which everyone can enjoy."

To find out more about the courses and enrol call 01344 454203 or visit www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/be

Bracknell Forest Borough Council

Twelve schools across the Bracknell borough have been trialling a new welcome pack for their reception class pupils.

The packs aim to prepare children for full time education and make the transition to primary school easier.

They include colourful cards which can be used to play lots of fun games. The booklet also includes a child friendly story and drawing book featuring Archie the Elephant.

Archie is a character already used in the twelve schools to encourage children to do good sitting, good looking and good listening during the school day.

The booklets show Archie the Elephant as he gets up in the morning, brushes his teeth and prepares for the day ahead. The story book is designed to be shared as a family to help prepare children for starting school. Once they have started school the drawing book is a lovely way to talk about their school day.

These welcome packs were devised and designed by an education based Speech and Language Therapy Team working with teaching staff in Bracknell Forest primary schools.

Allison Fletcher, Assistant Director of Learning Achievement and Libraries, said: "Starting school for the first time can be a challenge and these welcome packs seem to help children get into the swing of things.

"The booklets are a good way of showing children what will be expected of them in the morning and during the school day and they are also a great way for parents to ask their children how they are getting on."

Alan Ward, Executive Member for Bracknell Education and Libraries said: "A £5,000 lottery grant has enabled these welcome packs to be designed and put together this year.

"I hope funding can be found for next year as I believe these welcome packs are proving to be very beneficial for new pupils."

Bracknell Forest Borough Council

A special Bracknell event has been organised to launch a new orienteering course at Pope's Meadow in Binfield.

Wild Navigation is taking place on Saturday, September 15, from 1pm to 4pm. Starting from the car park off St Mark's Road, it gives participants the chance to explore the park with the new course across the meadow.

Berkshire Orienteers will be on hand to support Bracknell Forest Borough Council's rangers who helped to create the course with volunteers from Canon.

Orienteering courses have also been created in Lily Hill Park, Ambarrow Court and at 29 schools in Bracknell Forest, to encourage children and other members of the public to explore the borough's open spaces.

The project was initiated by the Berkshire Orienteers, working with the Council. It was funded by the Big Lottery Fund.

It is hoped that orienteering can now be introduced into the curriculum in the borough's schools.

The permanent courses have been fully mapped, and training has been provided to Bracknell schools. It is hoped that once orienteering skills have been mastered at school, pupils and young people's groups will be able to extend their experience in the safe environment of the borough's parks.

The courses were created by the Council's rangers with assistance from regular volunteers supplied by Canon - who wanted to help the local community and its environment.

Cllr Iain McCracken, Executive Member for Bracknell Leisure, Corporate Services and Public Protection, said: "Orienteering is a great way to explore the countryside and find out more about the world around us while doing something healthy at the same time.

"I would like to thank the Berkshire Orienteers and the volunteers from Canon for their hard work in getting this worthwhile scheme up and running."

Bracknell Forest Borough Council

Foster children and their families enjoyed a day out in Swanage, Dorset, on Friday, August 31 thanks to Bracknell Forest Borough Council and Waitrose.

Every year Bracknell Council's Family Placement Team, which arranges foster care and adoption in the borough, organises day trips for children who have been fostered and their foster families.

On this trip, 32 foster carers and children joined in the fun which was made even better thanks to Waitrose who generously covered the cost of the coach hire.

Everyone spent the day at the beach, swimming, riding the bumper cars and burying each other in the sand. Some also went on Swanage's famous steam train to Corfe Castle.

Sandra McGinley, Head of Children's Social Care, Health and Wellbeing said: "As always, the generous support from Waitrose makes a massive difference to children in care throughout the borough.

"Our foster carers and their children and fostered children, give so much, that it is wonderful to see them enjoy a really great fun day out, away from the humdrum of every day life.

"It can also be a chance for the foster carers to chat to, and support one another, within a fun environment."

Cllr Gareth Barnard, Executive Member of Bracknell Children's Services, said: "I really admire foster carers and the brilliant and often selfless work that they do.

"Day trips like this are a way of saying thank you to the foster carers and giving them the opportunity to do something fun with the children that they look after.

"I'd like to say thank you to Waitrose for their generous donation which made the trip to Swanage possible."

Stuart Gibbon, Manager of the Waitrose, Birch Hill, Bracknell said: "I'm really pleased that Waitrose were able to support the Family Placement Team at the Council in organising this day out.

"It's great that the children can go to the seaside with their foster families and really enjoy themselves."

There are currently 11 teenagers needing long-term care in the borough and the Council urgently needs more people to become foster carers.

Anyone can apply to be a foster carer and the Family Placement Team offers flexible fostering options to suit you, your family and your lifestyle.

Fore more information and an informal talk, the next fostering and adoption open evening is on Thursday 15 November, at The Family Centre on Warfield Road, Bracknell, from 7-9 pm.

For more information contact the Family Placement Team on: 01344 351582 or complete a no-commitment online expression of interest form at www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/fostering

Bracknell Forest Borough Council

South Hill Park
Recital Room
Cabaret Night
Saturday 1 December
7.45pm
Tickets £9, Conc £8
Eve MacDonald and Tanya Vasey will perform a collection of songs from their favourite musicals, accompanied by award-winning pianist James Church.
Contact South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7PA
Box Office: 01344 484123
www.southhillpark.org.uk

South Hill Park
Wilde Theatre
A Victorian Christmas with Robert Powell
Sunday 2 December
7.30pm
Tickets £12, Conc £11, Members £10, Schools & Under 21s £8
Robert Powell and Joanna David, together with Clive Conway on flute and Christine Croshaw on piano presents a show evoking the triumphs and tragedies, the humour and the pathos of Victorian life.
Contact South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7PA
Box Office: 01344 484123
www.southhillpark.org.uk
South Hill Park
Cellar Bar
Josaka's New Music Nights
Thursday 6 December
8pm
Tickets £5
On the first Thursday of every month, Josaka brings you great new alternative music from signed and unsigned artists.
Contact South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7PA
Box Office: 01344 484123
www.southhillpark.org.uk

South Hill Park
Recital Room
Twelve Tales of Christmas
Friday 7 - Saturday 8 December
7.45pm
Tickets £7, Conc £6, Members £5
Warm up the wintry evenings with a good old fashioned festive cabaret of comedy, drama, seasonal songs and merry music. A real Christmas treat!
Contact South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7PA
Box Office: 01344 484123
www.southhillpark.org.uk

South Hill Park
Cellar Bar
Norrie Burnett's Snakebite Blues
Saturday 8 December
8pm
Tickets £10, Members £9, NUS & Under 25s £8
A true original, Norrie's brand of blues and style of delivery is a rare blend of craft, class and velocity while the band is red hot, most notably with man of the moment, Neil Cowley on the keys.
Contact South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7PA
Box Office: 01344 484123
www.southhillpark.org.uk

South Hill Park
Recital Room
Bracknell Forest Music Society
Sunday 9 December
3pm
Tickets £13, Conc & SHP Members £11, BFMS Members & BGS £9, Schools & Under 18s £1
Artists and programme to be confirmed.
Contact South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7PA
Box Office: 01344 484123
www.southhillpark.org.uk

South Hill Park
Recital Room
South Hill Park Natural History Society
Monday 10 December
8pm
Tickets £3, NHS Members £1
Brian Laney talks about Britain's Rarest Wildflowers.
Contact South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7PA
Box Office: 01344 484123
www.southhillpark.org.uk

South Hill Park
Wilde Theatre
Jeremy Hardy
Wednesday 12 December
8pm
Tickets £14, Conc & Members £12
Jeremy's perhaps best remembered as a much younger man, but there is nothing he can do about that now. Still alive and able to speak unaided for lengthy periods, this show will be not so much a one-man show as an under-staffed cavalcade.
Contact South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7PA
Box Office: 01344 484123
www.southhillpark.org.uk

South Hill Park
Cellar Bar
The Platform
Thursday 13 December
8pm
Tickets £3
Acoustic nights featuring the best emerging local musical talent. Untried artists are very welcome to take part. Please e-mail damon@parkstudio.co.uk <mailto:damon@parkstudio.co.uk> for details on performing.
Contact South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7PA
Box Office: 01344 484123
www.southhillpark.org.uk

South Hill Park
Recital Room
Christmas Voyces: A magical musical journey
Sunday 16 December
7pm
Tickets £9, Conc £7, Under 16s £5
A sparkling evening of festive music including some favourite carols, audience participation and readings for all the family.
Contact South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7PA
Box Office: 01344 484123
www.southhillpark.org.uk

South Hill Park
Wilde Theatre
Holly At Christmas
Tuesday 18 December
8pm
Tickets £16, Conc £15, Members £14
This fast, furious and funny rock 'n' rollercoaster of a show is guaranteed to have everyone singing along to the music and dancing in the aisles to such timeless hits as That'll Be The Day, Peggy Sue, It Doesn't Matter Anymore, Raining In My Heart, and Oh Boy!
Contact South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7PA
Box Office: 01344 484123
www.southhillpark.org.uk

South Hill Park
Cellar Bar
The Platform
Thursday 27 December
8pm
Tickets £3
Acoustic nights featuring the best emerging local musical talent. Untried artists are very welcome to take part. Please e-mail damon@parkstudio.co.uk <mailto:damon@parkstudio.co.uk> for details on performing.
Contact South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7PA
Box Office: 01344 484123
www.southhillpark.org.uk

Exhibitions

South Hill Park
The Bracknell Gallery
Response to Eden
By South West Textile Group
Saturday 15 September - Sunday 11 November
Free
The result of a two-year collaboration between the Eden Project in Cornwall, Exeter Phoenix Arts Centre and the South West Textile Group.
Contact South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7PA
Box Office: 01344 484123
www.southhillpark.org.uk

South Hill Park
Atrium and Long Gallery
Dis/Connected: Myth and Modern-day Man in Contemporary Fine Art Photography from Nordic Countries
Saturday 15 September - Sunday 11 November
Free
Dis/Connected introduces work by emerging fine art photographers from the Nordic countries. The selected artists work specifically with themes of myth in the lives and minds of modern-day man.
Contact South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7PA
Box Office: 01344 484123
www.southhillpark.org.uk

South Hill Park
Mirror Gallery, Atrium Projection Space, Tall Hall and Wilde Gallery
Flicks Art Exhibition
Saturday 15 September - Sunday 11 November
Free
Showcasing moving image work by UK based black and Asian artists. The exhibition focuses on a variety of digital media other than films.
Contact South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7PA
Box Office: 01344 484123
www.southhillpark.org.uk

South Hill Park
Tall Hall
Surfacing
By Hannah Bedford
Saturday 1 December - Sunday 20 January
Free
This exhibition showcases Hannah Bedford's new collection of bespoke jewellery. It explores surface decoration in precious metals such as fine gold fusing and granulation, expressing new qualities that she has developed and refined during her residency at South Hill Park.
Contact South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7PA
Box Office: 01344 484123
www.southhillpark.org.uk

South Hill Park
The Bracknell Gallery
Conspiracy Dwellings: A Portrait of a Model City
by Pam Skelton with invited contributions from Tina Clausmeyer, Verena Kyselka and C.CRET
Saturday 1 December - Sunday 20 January
Free
The exhibition addresses some of the issues associated with state control, surveillance, past and present at a time of uncertainty when global terrorism highlights its controversial status. Contact South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7PA
Box Office: 01344 484123
www.southhillpark.org.uk

South Hill Park
Atrium
Rescued Items
by Greg Daville
Saturday 1 December - Sunday 20 January
Free
Rescued Items from Babel represents self-portraits in staged environments of stored information in order to explore the failings and aspirations of visual, verbal, and written communication and as a metaphor for the human condition with regard to planning, self-sabotage, and aspiration.
Contact South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7PA
Box Office: 01344 484123
www.southhillpark.org.uk

South Hill Park
Wilde Gallery
Arts and Minds
Saturday 1 December - Sunday 20 January
Free
South Hill Park is proud to exhibit artwork created by patients of the West London Mental Health NHS Trust. This work has been created as part of a wide range of purposeful activities in the trust's adult education centre, occupational therapy units and wards.
Contact South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7PA
Box Office: 01344 484123
www.southhillpark.org.uk

South Hill Park
Wilde Theatre
Aladdin
Friday 30 November - Saturday 5 January
Various times
Tickets vary with a top price of £14.95
Flying into South Hill Park this Christmas, an amazing Arabian adventure packed full of Magic, Music and Mayhem!
Contact South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7PA
Box Office: 01344 484123
www.southhillpark.org.uk

South Hill Park
Cellar Bar
Josaka's New Music Nights
Thursday 1 November
8pm
Tickets £5
On the first Thursday of every month, Josaka brings you great new alternative music from signed and unsigned artists.
Contact South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7PA
Box Office: 01344 484123
www.southhillpark.org.uk

South Hill Park
Recital Room
Rodgers and Hammerstein's
The King And I
Tue 6 - Sat 10 Nov 7.30pm
Sat Mat 10 Nov 2.30pm
Tickets vary from £11 - £15
Featuring the songs Getting to Know You, Whistle a Happy Tune, Hello Young Lovers and Shall We Dance?, this immensely popular musical is a show not to be missed.
Contact South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7PA
Box Office: 01344 484123
www.southhillpark.org.uk

South Hill Park
Cellar Bar
The Platform
Thursday 8 November
8pm
Tickets £3
Acoustic nights featuring the best emerging local musical talent. Untried artists are very welcome to take part. Please e-mail damon@parkstudio.co.uk <mailto:damon@parkstudio.co.uk> for details on performing.
Contact South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7PA
Box Office: 01344 484123
www.southhillpark.org.uk

South Hill Park
Studio Theatre
On The Black Hill
Friday 9 - Saturday 10 November
8pm
Tickets £10, Conc £9, Members £8
ajtc brings its distinctive style to a new adaptation of Bruce Chatwin's award winning, and much loved novel, featuring a specially commissioned score with live cello music.
Suitable for 16+
Contact South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7PA
Box Office: 01344 484123
www.southhillpark.org.uk

South Hill Park
Recital Room
The Zoe Rahman Project
Saturday 10 November
8pm
Tickets £13.50, Members £12, NUS & Under 25s £10
Mercury Prize nominee Zoe Rahman premieres a new project centred around work with Bengali musicians.
Contact South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7PA
Box Office: 01344 484123
www.southhillpark.org.uk

South Hill Park
Recital Room
Bracknell Forest Music Society
Sunday 11 November
3pm
Tickets £13, Conc & SHP Members £11, BFMS Members & BGS £9, Schools & Under 18s £1
Programme and Artists to be confirmed
Contact South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7PA
Box Office: 01344 484123
www.southhillpark.org.uk

South Hill Park
Wilde Theatre
Tango Siempre's Tango: Nuevo
Sunday 11 November
8pm
Tickets £15, Members £13.50, NUS & under 21s £11
The culmination their residency at South Hill Park, this performance of Tango:Nuevo explores this unique art form to the full, moving from stunning, virtuoso displays of traditional tango to powerful and groundbreaking new music.
Contact South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7PA
Box Office: 01344 484123
www.southhillpark.org.uk

South Hill Park
Wilde Theatre
Bracknell Flower Arranging Society
Monday 12 November
7.30pm
Tickets £12
A floral demonstration by Clive Moorhead entitled "With A Bit Of A Twinkle".
Contact South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7PA
Box Office: 01344 484123
www.southhillpark.org.uk

South Hill Park
Wilde Theatre
La Bohème
Tuesday 13 November
7.30pm
Tickets £17.50, Conc £16.50, Members £15.50
In Puccini's most popular opera, his ravishingly beautiful score and celebrated arias brilliantly portray the passions, laughter and tragedies of the young bohemians.
Contact South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7PA
Box Office: 01344 484123
www.southhillpark.org.uk

South Hill Park
Wilde Theatre
Don Letts presents Speakers Corner
Wednesday 14 November
8pm
Tickets £13.50, Members £12, NUS & Under 25s £11, NUS & Under 25s in advance £8
Speakers Corner is a new live music theatre performance, spearheaded by film and music maverick Don Letts, seeking a totally contemporary response to slavery's legacy.
Contact South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7PA
Box Office: 01344 484123
www.southhillpark.org.uk

South Hill Park
Wilde Theatre
The Geoff Gascoyne Project
featuring Jamie Cullum, Trudy Kerr + The Juno String Quartet
Thursday 15 November
8pm
Tickets £17.50, Members £15, NUS & Under 21s £12
Presenting music from his Candid Records CD, 'Keep It To Yourself', composer Geoff Gascoyne has created a large ensemble which features a core trio of Sebastian de Krom on drums and Jamie Cullum on piano and vocals.
Contact South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7PA
Box Office: 01344 484123
www.southhillpark.org.uk

South Hill Park
Christmas Craft Fair 2007
Saturday 17 November 12noon - 6pm
Sunday 18 November 10am-5pm
Day Tickets £3.50, Conc £2, Under 10s FREE
Family Ticket £9 (2+2 or 1+3)
Weekend Ticket (advance only) £4.50, Conc £3
All your Christmas shopping is right here under one roof, including Ceramics, Textiles, Wood, Glass, Metals, Cards, Leatherwork, Printmaking and Jewellery.
Contact South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7PA
Box Office: 01344 484123
www.southhillpark.org.uk
South Hill Park
Cellar Bar
The Platform
Thursday 22 November
8pm
Tickets £3
Acoustic nights featuring the best emerging local musical talent. Untried artists are very welcome to take part. Please e-mail damon@parkstudio.co.uk <mailto:damon@parkstudio.co.uk> for details on performing.
Contact South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7PA
Box Office: 01344 484123
www.southhillpark.org.uk

South Hill Park
Recital Room
South Hill Park Natural History Society
Monday 26 November
8pm
Tickets £3, NHS Members £1
This month Chris Howkins talks about Sweet Chestnuts.
Contact South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7PA
Box Office: 01344 484123
www.southhillpark.org.uk

South Hill Park
Wilde Theatre
Aladdin
Friday 30 November - Saturday 5 January
Various times
Tickets vary with a top price of £14.95
Flying into South Hill Park this Christmas, an amazing Arabian adventure packed full of Magic, Music and Mayhem!
Contact South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7PA
Box Office: 01344 484123
www.southhillpark.org.uk

South Hill Park
Wilde Theatre
The Mark Bruce Company
Sea Of Bones
Tuesday 2 October
8pm
Tickets £12, Conc £11, Members £10, Schools & Under 21s £8 Set to a diverse mix of cult pop and baroque music including Nick Cave and The Bad Seeds, P J Harvey, Sonic Youth and Domenico Scarlatti, Sea of Bones is a major new work for seven exceptional dancers.
Contact South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7PA Box Office: 01344 484123 www.southhillpark.org.uk

South Hill Park
Wilde Theatre
Vinicius Cantuária
Wednesday 3 October
8pm
Tickets £16.50, Members £15, NUS & Under 21s £11 Vinicius Cantuária's music glories in the subtle nuances of Bossa Nova sound while bringing jazz and electronica influences into a mix that is deeply sensual and emphatically heartfelt.
Contact South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7PA Box Office: 01344 484123 www.southhillpark.org.uk

South Hill Park
Wilde Theatre
The Puppini Sisters
Thursday 4 October
7.30pm
Tickets £17.50. Members £15, NUS & Under 21s £12 Originally inspired by the Andrews Sisters, there is more than mere tribute to their distinctly 40s retro persona. In fact, if their recent cover of Kate Bush's Wuthering Heights is anything to go by the musicality of this threesome is rather more inspired than it first appears.
Contact South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7PA Box Office: 01344 484123 www.southhillpark.org.uk

South Hill Park
Cellar Bar
Josaka's New Music Nights
Thursday 4 October
8pm
Tickets £5
On the first Thursday of every month, Josaka brings you great new alternative music from signed and unsigned artists.
Contact South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7PA Box Office: 01344 484123 www.southhillpark.org.uk

South Hill Park
Wilde Theatre
Abram Wilson
Ride! Ferris Wheel to the Delta Blues
Friday 5 October
8pm
Tickets £15, Members £13.50, Conc & NUS £10 Abram Wilson takes to the road with the incredibly funky, highly danceable record, a swingin' evocation of early America mixed with fluid riffs and layers of narrative.
Contact South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7PA Box Office: 01344 484123 www.southhillpark.org.uk

South Hill Park
Studio Theatre
Getting Married/Dogs
Yellow Earth
Fri 5 - Sat 6 Oct 8pm
Tickets £10, Conc £9, Members £8
Double bill from the UK's pioneering East Asian Theatre Company Contact South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7PA Box Office: 01344 484123 www.southhillpark.org.uk

South Hill Park
Wilde Theatre
Missed Out's Launch Night
Saturday 6 October
7.30pm
Tickets £2
Featuring an array of different art forms, artists and performers this promises to be bigger and better than before!!
Contact South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7PA Box Office: 01344 484123 www.southhillpark.org.uk

South Hill Park
Recital Room
WFS Chamber Concert
Sunday 7 October
3pm
Tickets £5
Programme includes Poulenc Sextet for Piano and Wind, Samuel Barber Summer Music, Reicha Wind Quintet in E Flat Contact South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7PA Box Office: 01344 484123 www.southhillpark.org.uk

South Hill Park
Wilde Theatre
Disney's High School Musical
Starmaker Theatre Company
Tuesday 9 - Saturday 13 October
7.45pm, Sat Mat 3pm
Tickets Tue - Thu & Sat Mat £15, £13, £11, Concs £13, £11, £9 Fri & Sat Eve £17, £15, £13 The smash hit film and TV series, now a stage show. A bunch of high school students swap basketball and science for the performing arts but devious schemes are hatched to get them back to 'where then belong'.
Contact South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7PA Box Office: 01344 484123 www.southhillpark.org.uk

South Hill Park
Studio Theatre
Prime Theatre
Old World
Wednesday 10 - Thursday 11 October
7.30pm
Tickets £8
Old World is a delightfully observed and touching story, which reminds us that it's never too late to find someone to grow old with. It is a story of hope and compassion which will appeal to audiences of all ages and tastes.
Contact South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7PA Box Office: 01344 484123 www.southhillpark.org.uk

South Hill Park
Cellar Bar
The Platform
Thursday 11 October
8pm
Tickets £3
Acoustic nights featuring the best emerging local musical talent. Untried artists are very welcome to take part. Please e-mail damon@parkstudio.co.uk <mailto:damon@parkstudio.co.uk> for details on performing.
Contact South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7PA Box Office: 01344 484123 www.southhillpark.org.uk

South Hill Park
Wilde Theatre
The KAOS Dream
Mon 15 - Wed 17 Oct 7.30pm
Tickets £12, Conc £11, Members £10, Schools & Under 21s £8 The KAOS MIDSUMMER NIGHTS DREAM is a raunchy, physically fuelled, surreal Shakespearean spectacle, brought to you by the award winning KAOS Theatre, one of the UK's most exciting bands of theatre visionaries.
Contains Nudity, Suitable for 15+
Contact South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7PA Box Office: 01344 484123 www.southhillpark.org.uk

South Hill Park
Recital Room
South Hill Park Natural History Society
Monday 23 October
8pm
Tickets £3, NHS Members £1
Monthly meeting with the South Hill Park Natural History Society. This month Chris Rodges talks about Bird Navigation.
Contact South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7PA Box Office: 01344 484123 www.southhillpark.org.uk

South Hill Park
Cellar Bar
Acoustic Blues: Michael Roach + Abbey Budgen Thursday 18 October 8pm Tickets £9, Members £8, Conc & Under 25s £7 A very familiar name to many within acoustic blues, Michael Roach, originally from Washington D.C. and now resident in the UK for the past eleven years, is an internationally acclaimed country blues artist.
Contact South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7PA Box Office: 01344 484123 www.southhillpark.org.uk

South Hill Park
Wilde Theatre
From Here to Maturity Dance Company
Friday 19 October
7.30pm
Tickets £12, Conc £11, Members £10, Schools & Under 21s £8
Five outstanding dancers (including former soloists and stars of Rambert, Michael Clark & Co and Arc) perform three new dance works.
Contact South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7PA
Box Office: 01344 484123
www.southhillpark.org.uk

South Hill Park
Dance Studio
1157perforrmancegroup
Beast Eden Way
Monday 22 - Tuesday 23 October
8pm
Tickets £8, Conc £5
1157 collaborate with award winning playwright Robin Fulford to create a multi- dimensional theatre piece, exploring suburban living new homes and new relationships.
Contact South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7PA
Box Office: 01344 484123
www.southhillpark.org.uk

South Hill Park
Wilde Theatre
The Witch's Bogey
Tue 23 Oct
2.30pm
Tickets £9, Child £7
The Witch's Bogey is a funky pop-musical about good versus evil and the magic of family.
Contact South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7PA
Box Office: 01344 484123
www.southhillpark.org.uk

South Hill Park
Wilde Theatre
Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde
Wednesday 24 October
7.30pm
Tickets £12, Members, Conc £11, Members £9, Schools & Under 21s £8
Robert Louis Stevenson's classic story has enthralled and fascinated the world for more than a century. Perhaps because a Mr. Hyde lurks deep within us all, watching...and waiting...
Contact South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7PA
Box Office: 01344 484123
www.southhillpark.org.uk

South Hill Park
Wilde Theatre
Dracula - The Panto!
Thursday 25 October
7.30pm
Tickets £10, Conc £9, Members & under 21s £8
Gothic meets slapstick in a real Halloween treat for everyone aged 8 - 80. Only the Dame and a song sheet stand between the naughty Count and world domination.
Contact South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7PA
Box Office: 01344 484123
www.southhillpark.org.uk

South Hill Park
Cellar Bar
The Platform
Thursday 25 October
8pm
Tickets £3
Acoustic nights featuring the best emerging local musical talent. Untried artists are very welcome to take part. Please e-mail damon@parkstudio.co.uk <mailto:damon@parkstudio.co.uk> for details on performing.
Contact South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7PA
Box Office: 01344 484123
www.southhillpark.org.uk

South Hill Park
Wilde Theatre
European Ballet
Coppelia
Saturday 27 October
3pm & 7.30pm
Tickets £16, Concs. £15, Members £14, Under 16s £12
The ballet interweaves the romance between Swanhilda and Franz with the story of the doll-maker Coppelius, whose greatest desire is to create a doll with a soul.
Contact South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7PA
Box Office: 01344 484123
www.southhillpark.org.uk

South Hill Park
Recital Room
Raymond Burley Classical Guitar Recital
Saturday 27 October
7.30pm
Tickets £9, Members, Conc & Under 16s £8
One of Britain's most experience guitarists performs an all Bach programme including Sonatas BWV 1001 & 1003 and Partitas BWV 1002 & 1006.
Contact South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7PA
Box Office: 01344 484123
www.southhillpark.org.uk

South Hill Park
Wilde Theatre
The Animal Collective
Sunday 28 October
8pm
Tickets £13.50, Members £12, NUS & Under 25s £11
The Animal Collective is a group of world-travelling musicians from Baltimore, Maryland who have caught the imagination with their incendary live shows.
Contact South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7PA
Box Office: 01344 484123
www.southhillpark.org.uk

South Hill Park
Studio Theatre
The Talented Mr Ripley
Wednesday 31 October - Saturday 3 November
8pm
Tickets £10, Conc £9
Tom Ripley, an utterly compelling, fastidious, charming and measured psychopath is sent to Italy to track down Ricky Greenleaf, the errant son of a wealthy couple. His mission takes on a sinister twist as their lives become inextricably entwined.
Contact South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7PA
Box Office: 01344 484123
www.southhillpark.org.uk

South Hill Park
Wilde Theatre
Russell Howard - Adventures
Wednesday 31 October
8pm
Tickets £15, Members & Conc £12
If.comedies nominee 2006, Star of BBC 6 Music, BBC 2's Mock The Week, Radio 4's Banter and Radio 2's Out To Lunch. Russell's infectious, charming and uniquely banter-filled style of stand up has made him a red hot comedy property.
Contact South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7PA
Box Office: 01344 484123
www.southhillpark.org.uk

The annual Swimathon at Bracknell Leisure Centre in March raised £4,975 - more than doubling what was raised last year.

There were more than 30 swimmers raising money for Marie Curie Cancer Care and the Swimathon Foundation. The foundation provides money for charities and not-for-profit organisations which work to benefit the health and wellbeing of people who live around participating swimming pools.

Bracknell Volunteers set their own choice of distance ranging from one-and-a-half to five kilometres or teamed up with colleagues, friends and family to swim even further.

Valerie Pearce from Marie Curie Cancer Care said: "I would like to congratulate everyone who swam in Swimathon 2007 and helped to raise money for Marie Curie Cancer Care.

"Your efforts will help to help make a real difference to the lives of terminally ill cancer patients and their families in the local community."

Cllr Iain McCracken, Executive Member for Bracknell Leisure, Corporate Services and Public Protection, said: "Bracknell Forest residents have a tradition of raising money for good causes and have been particularly supportive the Swimathon and I'm sure this year was no exception."

Bracknell Forest Borough Council

Any Bracknell person who is elderly, has a disability or has a condition which may impair their safety at home, can apply for a new, simple and innovative alarm system to help ensure their well-being and maintain their independence.

Bracknell Forest Borough Council has been awarded more than £70,000 to invest in an exciting new technological support system called Telecare, which aims to help elderly people, people with disabilities or living with certain conditions to live independently in their own home for as long as possible.

The Council is now asking elderly Bracknell people, people with mental health conditions, certain long-term illness and people with disabilities, who may benefit from sensors -which can detect falls in the home as well as flooding and smoke- to come forward and see if they are eligible.

Telecare consists of wireless sensors and detectors, such as flood detectors and smoke detectors, placed in the homes which are monitored 24 hours a day, 365 days a year by Forestcare, the Council’s emergency control centre

The discrete sensors and detectors are placed around the home, and depending on what the person needs it for, it can do things like set off alarms when a person has fallen; turn off a TV or lamp; shut off a gas supply to a cooker if the gas is left on, and alert the person to flooding.

Telecare helps to ensure people living in their own homes with disabilities and certain conditions can be supported to live independently, with added security and reassurance for them, their family and carers.

It is used in addition to existing care offered by Bracknell Council and as well as providing security it also helps to manage risks in the home by giving off alerts to potential problems, such as falling, which helps people to live independently without the fear they may not be able to get help in an emergency.

For instance family members of elderly relatives can be reassured that should a sensor be activated due to a fall or flood, a message is sent to the Forestcare control centre, where trained operators take the most appropriate action and contact either a family member, neighbour, doctor or emergency services.

It is hoped that Telecare, will be able to help many more elderly people in Bracknell Forest to live at home for longer but the Council is also keen to hear from people with dementia, mental illness, epilepsy or who has a history of falls who may benefit from Telecare to get in touch. Glyn Jones, Assistant Director of Community Safety, said: "Keeping the home as safe as possible for our elderly residents and those who may need additional help is of key importance. Telecare is a great way of ensuring help is available for those who want to live as independently as possible but want the reassurance of knowing 24-hour help is available if necessary."

Cllr Dale Birch, Executive Member for Bracknell Adults Services, Health and Housing, said: "Anyone who thinks they could benefit from having Telecare should get in touch with the Council as soon as possible.

"With this new technology installed it could mean that some of our most vulnerable residents are able to carrying on living in their own home and in their own environment rather than having to go into sheltered accommodation or care."

Following an assessment from Bracknell Council’s social services department, people who are eligible can receive the sensors free under the Government’s Preventative Technology Grant (PTG). A small weekly charge for the Forestcare Lifeline service would be made to ensure that emergency help was available 24 hours a day.

More information on Forestcare and Telecare can be found on the Council’s website at www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk or for more information on Forestcare please call 01344 786500

For details on Telecare assessments please call Adult Social Services front desk on 01344 351500.

Bracknell Forest Borough Council

Reflection, comfort and remembrance was offered to hundreds of Bracknell people who paid their respects to loved ones buried or cremated at Easthampstead Park Cemetery and Crematorium during the annual open air memorial service on Sunday (September 2).

The remembrance service took place at the Bracknell Forest Borough Council run crematorium on Sunday afternoon to give comfort and reflection to hundreds of people wanting to remember relatives and friends.

The Mayor of Bracknell Forest, Cllr Mrs Gill Birch, gave a reading offering words of comfort during the 45 minute service. She also released doves as a symbol of peace during the reading from Corinthians 1:13 - faith, hope and love, the greatest of all being love. Scouts from the area also released six doves from a white basket.

Other readings and prayers were made by Reverend Andrew Frearson from St Andrews Church in Priestwood, Reverend Philip Thomas from High Cross Methodist Church, and Deacon Tony Cunningham from St Joseph and St Margaret Clitherow Church

Jan Frances from the Humanist Celebrant will also made a non-religious reading during the 20th annual service.

Bracknell Cllr Mrs Birch, said: "The memorial service, as always, was very well attended and provided a great deal of comfort to many residents who wanted to take time to remember loved ones, who are sadly no longer with us.

"The readings, speeches and prayers were not only comforting but also offered the chance for reflection and remembrance."

More than £900 of donations made during the service will be given to the Mayor's chosen charity which is the Soldiers, Sailors and Airmen Families Association (SSAFA) Forces Help.

Bracknell Forest Borough Council

School children from Bracknell Forest's primary schools will be able to see their art work on display from this week in the Princess Square shopping centre.

The brightly coloured banners have been hung in the shopping centre opposite Argos above Photo Optix, and feature designs from six of the borough's primary schools; Winkfield St Mary's CE, Sandy Lane, St Joseph's Catholic Voluntary Aided, the Pines, Birch Hill and Broadmoor primary schools.

About twenty of the enormous banners were made for the Our World musical spectacular which took place in June at the Bracknell Leisure Centre and were hung from the ceiling.

Featuring the acclaimed BBC singers and written and conducted by world renowned composer Ronald Corp, Our World consisted of two performances and was put together and performed by over 500 primary school pupils from across the borough.

Our World explored environmental issues and highlighted the topic of personal responsibility for preserving our environment and raised issues like recycling, waste, climate change and the importance of rivers.

This subject is reflected in the colourful banners which feature pictures of the weather, trees, and animals amongst other things.

Bracknell Children spent hours making the banners, using a range of materials such as paint, crayons, felt, coloured paper and glitter on canvas.

Tony Eccleston, Director of Education, Children's Services and Libraries said: "Our World was a big part of the borough's primary school calendar last term and it is great to have the banners up for everyone to see.

"A lot of hard work was put into making these banners and they look fantastic."

Alan Ward, Executive Member for Education and Libraries said: "The Our World performance was outstanding and the banners really set the scene for the performances.

"I hope parents and children can come to Princess Square to see their handiwork!"

The banners will be on display until the end of October.

Bracknell Forest Borough Council

Bracknell Police are appealing for information after a 26-year-old man was assaulted as he walked in the Forest Park area of Bracknell.

At around 12.30am on Sunday (2/9) the victim was walking along Savernake Way when he was struck from behind. His jacket, containing his mobile phone and £25 was stolen.

The attack was carried out by four white men, in their early twenties, all were wearing hooded tops. The victim was left with cuts and bruises.

PC Richard Probert, from Bracknell police area, said: “This was a frightening attack which has left the victim shaken and upset. I am keen to speak to anyone who saw the men before or after the incident or who witnessed the assault.”

PC Probert can be contacted via the Police Enquiry Centre on 0845 8 505 505. If you don’t want to speak to police or leave your name, call the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Thames Valley Police ~ Bracknell

Residents in the Bracknell area are encouraged to attend the area’s Beat Surgery on that takes place this Saturday (8/9).

The meeting, which will be held at Jocks Lane Priesthood between 11am and 1pm, will give residents the perfect opportunity to talk through any issues and concerns they may have with their local officers.

Neighbourhood Officer for Priesthood and Garth, Bracknell, PC Neil Slocombe said: “Everyone is welcome to attend and there is no need to make an appointment. It is also a good opportunity for anyone to talk their concerns through with us.”

Thames Valley Police ~ Bracknell