ASCOT MATTERS -

What is going on in Sunningdale, Sunninghill, Cheapside, Ascot and Winkfield

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COMMUNITY  REPORTS

NEW COPSE FOR ASCOT

Following the Woodland Trust’s launch of the ‘Tree for All’ campaign the children of Littlehurst, the Kindergarten of Hurst Lodge School, Ascot, went in to the 22 acre grounds of the school to plant a copse of trees.  The Woodland Trust scheme plans to plant 12 million trees over the next 5 years.

The children planted the wild cherry, the rowan and the silver birch and, as part of their curriculum, they were able to learn more about the woodlands and gain hands on experience of the environment. 

Tree for All is the most ambitious children’s tree planting project ever launched in the UK.

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CHRISTMAS PARKING IN WINDSOR

The Christmas package – intended to attract shoppers into Windsor in the coming weeks – features free parking on many evenings and on Sundays as well as extra parking spaces created by extending the use of existing car parks at off-peak times.

The “gift-box” of festive parking arrangements is designed to supplement the ongoing parking strategy being implemented in Windsor to improve parking for both residents and visitors.

New measures for this year include:

bullet extending the Home Park park and ride service until 9pm (extended from 7pm)
bullet signposting King Edward Court car park for evening parking
bullet encouraging motorists to park in East Berkshire College overflow car park at weekends
bullet providing additional car parking at Windsor coach park during the winter when it is not so widely used by coaches
bullet encouraging local businesses to allow the public to use their car parks at weekends.

FREE PARKING will be available - 

In Windsor (and Eton) in Alma Road, Alexandra gardens, Romney Lock, Victoria Street, Eton Court, Meadow Lane and King Edward V11 car parks

bullet after 4pm every Thursday from 27 November
bullet every Sunday in December
bullet all day on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day
bullet £2 flat rate for cars in the coach park between 10am and 4pm from 15 to 24 December.
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The Ascot Heath Library is hoping to set up two reading groups.

On a Thursday evening, 7.45 - 9.30 pm ,once a month, will be a Crime Fiction Reading Group and on the 3rd Wednesday of the month between 11 a.m. and noon, a general Reading Group.

Could anyone who is interested in joining either reading group, please contact the library on 01344 884030.
Places are limited.

 

WINKFIELD PARISH COUNCIL CELEBRATES

Pictured above: Bracknell Forest Mayor,  Bob Edger OBE, presents the Green Flag Award to Chairman of Winkfield Parish Council, Cllr Malcolm Young, on November 15.

The Green Flag Award is the national standard for parks and green spaces in England and Wales.  The award scheme, run by the Civic Trust, began in 1996 as a means of recognising and rewarding the best green spaces in the country. Winkfield Parish Council has won for Carnation Hall and grounds. Awards are given on an annual basis and winners must apply each year to renew their Green Flag status. Congratulating the Parish Council, the Mayor said Winkfield was one of only  two Parish Councils to have won it.

Pictured above: Former Mayor of Bracknell Forest Borough Council-  Cllr Jim Finnie, Winkfield Parish Clerk,- Annemarie Edwards, Parish Chairman, Cllr Malcolm Young , Bracknell Forest Mayor- Bob Edger OBE, the Lady Mayoress- Mrs Edger, Cllr Jim Bryant, Head of Grounds Maintenance and Facilities - Paul Craven and former Parish Clerk  Mrs Anne Potts.

A party and buffet was also held to mark the tenth anniversary of Carnation Hall, which was formally opened in July 1998 and  is now one of the most popular local venues for functions, fairs, meetings dances, fetes, toddler groups and clubs such as badminton, bowls, table tennis, churches and more.  Nearly 100 people, including former employees and people who were involved in the initial project to build Carnation Hall. The Mayor congratulating the Parish Council on providing such an excellent facility and keeping it in such fine condition. Cllr Jim Bryant said that the main hall is so well proportioned, it is suitable for national level badminton competition. For more information, contact the Parish Council on 01344 885110.

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VALUE FOR VALOUR LAUNCH AT ASCOT

Pictured below is Ronnie Wilkie, Operations DIrector at the Racecourse, speaking at the Racing Launch of Value for Valour, Sport in Action for the Forces, at Ascot Racecourse, on November 13.

Mr Wilke said: "Value for Valour, V4V, is a powerful, tangible way for sports stadia to show their appreciation for our service men and women, by giving them good deals. The vision is to have  every major stadium, from Aberdeen to Penzance in the programme, though  it is up to each venue to devise an offer, not necessarily based on the Ascot model of 2 for 1."

Launched earlier this year with the Berkshire Media Group, V4V is already off to a flying start, with Reading Utd., Bracknell Bees, London Irish and Earls Court having joined Ascot Racecourse in offering 2 for 1 deals to anybody with a services ID card, regular or territorial.

V4V came about through a Country Life article on the social life, or lack of it, of some officers who were serving in Basra in 2007. One of them, Captain Nicola Rush (pictured below), lives near Ascot. She visited Ascot Racecourse, with the idea of reduced ticket prices for all service personnel. She pointed out that, when service personnel come home on leave they want to spend time on outings with families and these can be expensive. This is a means of showing appreciation, not just for the injured.

Once the scheme has been launched, the plan is to run a national initiative, raising funds for the Army Benevolent Fund, which deals with issues arising from current conflicts.  Ascot Racecourse will be the banker and host  cheque presentation events.

Pictured below is Major General Sir Evelyn Webb-Carter KCVO, speaking at the launch. He said: "The Army Benevolent Fund is the 'Soldiers Charity'. My main worry is what happens after soldiers leave the protection of their regimental corps. We want to be sure that we have the wherewithall to deal with long term problems. " He pointed out that conditions such as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder can  take years to emerge.

 

To book an Ascot Racecourse ticket,  under the V4V scheme, call 0870 727 1234, 9am - 5pm, Monday to Friday and quote Value for Valour and take along your ID on the day.

The Army Benevolent Fund is on 0845 241 4820 and at www.armybenevolentfund.org 

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ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY BRITISH CHRISTMAS TREES AND LOGS FOR ROARING FIRES           FROM THE WINDSOR ESTATE 

Reduce your carbon footprint and buy environmentally friendly high quality British Christmas trees and logs at the Paddock, Forest Gate (opposite Pink Lodge, on the A332 just outside Windsor), Windsor Great Park, from 29 November to 23 December. The Norway Spruce, the Nordman Fir, the Fraser Fir and the Scots Pine will be available and, every year, the Windsor Estate supplies Christmas trees to Windsor Castle, the Royal Palaces and St Paul’s Cathedral.

Head Forester Derick Stickler says: “The Christmas trees that are grown on the Windsor Estate have Forestry Stewardship Council (FSC) accreditation which means that they have been grown in an environmentally sustainable way. We can offer a range of trees that meet this standard. These trees are grown on your doorstep unlike many other Christmas trees which are imported from Europe.  Bags of seasoned logs are also available from the Windsor Estate and are ideal for open fires and log-burning stoves”.

The Christmas trees are sold deep in the forest and visitors drive into Forest Gate and through Windsor Great Park to the Log Cabin at the Paddock. Foresters are on hand to give expert advice and you can select the type, size and shape of your tree which range from 3ft to over 25 ft. The tree is then netted up ready to be taken away. A burning brazier will keep the winter chill away as you choose your tree and also buy holly, mistletoe and bags of logs from the Estate.

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LYNWOOD CELEBRATES 60 YEARS 

Residents and staff at Lynwood Nursing and Residential Centre  in Ascot celebrated in 1940s style on Wednesday, November 12, to celebrate Lynwood's 60th anniversary.

Pictured above, Mrs. Iris Beard, Lynwood's oldest resident, (aged 103) and her carer, Linda Campbell (in 1940's costume) examine the anniversary cake. As pieces of cake were removed, a picture of Lynwood was revealed.

Pianist Richard Sully, entertained the tea party with 1940s favourites such as 'There'll be Bluebirds Over'

Colonel Leo Harris was the first resident, arriving on November 9 1948Full capacity was 17 but in early 1949, plans were submitted to convert the stables and coach house. Today, Lynwood is BEN's National HQ and a  Centre, providing care and accommodation for over 100 people, with a wide spectrum of needs. The principal buildings provide residential and nursing care, with 48 additional flats  within the 20 acre grounds, offering sheltered accommodation. Services also include a specialist unit for the Elderly Mentally Infirm. There is also a laundrette, licensed bar, salon, library, chapel and visitor accommodation

The 1940s Themed Tea Party to Celebrate Lynwood's 60th Anniversary

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Local butcher Nigel Lewis is the latest company to acquire a unit at Ascot Business Park. 

PHOTO: Left to right: Jane Jameson and Nigel Lewis outside their new unit.

Lewis the butcher has taken the unit in order to accommodate their expanding hospitality operation; VANILLA PARTIES. The company arranges corporate events, product launches, private parties and weddings. Some of their previous events include The Brit Awards, Cartier Polo, Ascot and they have also catered for Prime ministers. For more information about Vanilla Parties range of services visit:  www.vanillaparties.com  

Nigel Lewis said “We are very excited about relocating to this wonderful park. It’s a great location and will set us up for the future.  We will be using the unit as our headquarters and also for cooking demonstrations and classes.” 

Bill Raspin of Raspin Properties said “it will be great to see the park occupied by expanding, local companies as soon as the units are completed which demonstrates the strength of the location.” 

Ascot Business Park provides a range of offices, workshops and warehouse units and is due to be completed at the end of this month for more information visit www.ascotbusinesspark.com

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SAVILL GARDEN FREE IN DECEMBER

The Savill Garden, which is part of The Royal Landscape within Windsor Great Park, is free throughout December. It will be an opportunity to experience the tranquil and understated beauty of the Garden in winter, together with wonderful surprises including the flowers of mahonias and witch hazels, the vibrant red, yellow and orange stems of dogwoods and a wide range of berrying plants. Conifers are conspicuous in the landscape and contrast with the rugged oaks and majestic beech trees. The New Zealand Garden has a great deal to offer in winter, including a host of evergreen plants and the textural delights of masses of striking tussock grasses. The newly refurbished Queen Elizabeth Temperate House will have colourful Christmas displays to enjoy including glorious red and white varieteis of poinsettias.

The Royal Landscape provides fantastic walks throughout the festive season. The Valley Gardens and Virginia Water are open every day, including Christmas Day and Boxing Day; and The Savill Garden is open daily except Christmas Day and Boxing Day.

·        The Savill Garden is open all year round and the winter opening hours (November to February) are from 10am-4.30pm. Last admission to the Garden and restaurant is 30 minutes before closing.  (The Savill Garden is closed on Christmas Day and Boxing Day).

·        The Savill Garden is FREE throughout December. (Car park charges apply – parking is free at The Savill Garden for the first 90 minutes and £1 per hour thereafter).

·        Pedestrian entry to the Valley Gardens is free of charge.

·        Car parking is available at The Valley Gardens. There is a fee of £6 per car and the car park is open from 8am to dusk. Parking is also available at Virginia Water and the Savill Garden.  Parking at the Savill Garden is free for the first 90 minutes and then £1 per hour thereafter. The Virginia Water car park is £1 per hour up to a maximum of £5.

·        For more information about The Royal Landscape, visit www.theroyallandscape.co.uk

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SCHOOL ART COMPETITION WINNER

Hurst Lodge School, Ascot is delighted to announce a first prize and a second prize, having .submitted a number of our students’ 2D, 3D and Textile work , to the recent annual London West section of the ISA Art Competition. This area covers west London down as far as Southampton. The venue this year was Sherfield School near Basingstoke and as usual a large number of Independent Schools competed.

Congratulations go to Amy Jenkins of Hurst Lodge for winning first prize in the 3D over 16 category for her interpretation of a chess board (see above).  Amy has been accepted on a Foundation Course at the London College of Fashion  Also a group of our under 7’s achieved second place for their pastel drawing on the theme of Cowboys and Indians.

Amy’s work will be entered in the National Competition to be held at the Autumn Study Conference at Oxford in November.

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HOSTS VICTORIOUS IN TWELFTH LAMBROOK HAILEYBURY FOOTBALL TOURNAMENT

The twelfth Lambrook Haileybury Soccer Tournament took place last Saturday with 8 competing teams aged 7 & 8: Upton House, Bishopsgate, Dair House, Cameron House, Eagle House, Winkfield St Mary’s and Lambrook Haileybury. The rain came lashing down at the start, but fortunately the sun came through half way through the proceedings. Many hard fought matches were played until we were left with two finalists Lambrook Haileybury and Winkfield St Mary’s. After a close run match Lambrook Haileybury were victorious on their home ground. It was an excellent morning of sport and showed the true grit of many of the 6/7 year old boys and girls in the various teams.

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New alerts flag up information that is ‘close to home’

A new addition to the Royal Borough’s website aims to keep local residents up to date, thanks to customised internet alerts sent direct to their home PCs. 

Residents who register for My Alerts – accessed through the secure area of the council’s website – provide their address and then receive email messages about changes and new activities in their area. 

The system is already being used for planning application alerts, which give registered users information about plans for neighbouring properties and streets. 

Cllr Liam Maxwell, lead member for policy and performance (including ICT), said the My Alerts system had tremendous potential for offering residents information about their specific areas without having to spend time searching online. 

He said:  “We are still at the early stages of exploring the full potential of My Alerts but planning applications are a natural starting point as they are of great interest to local people. We are looking at other possible ways of expanding the service to include, for example, licensing applications, transport information and roadworks. 

“It can sometimes take a lot of time and patience to find what you are looking for on the internet and the My Alerts system will give residents relevant council information in a simple and convenient way.  It is part of our commitment to open government. 

“We are very keen to get feedback from users to find out how they rate the service and what they would like to see included in the My Alerts service in the future. Residents can request new features by using the feedback button in the system.” 

My Alerts is available to users of My Account – the secure, password-protected area on the council’s website already used by residents for school admissions. If you would like to sign up to these services please go to http://www.rbwm.gov.uk/my_account.htm. Registration is quick and simple. 

It is built on detailed, accurate maps of the Royal Borough and alerts are generated on a geographical basis in the areas where registered residents live. The system will also be useful for other than home addresses, for example where families are keeping a watchful eye on elderly parents who may not have access to the web.

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Council advice as credit crunch bites

As news about the credit crunch gets gloomier by the day, the Royal Borough has urged residents to get early help and advice if they are facing financial problems.

 The council offers a range of advice services for local residents, including financial help with paying rent and/or council tax by claiming housing and council tax benefit.  However, it is important to get in touch as soon as personal circumstances change, for example when people become ill, lose their jobs or have to take a cut in pay. 

The council has expert staff available to find workable ways forward, not only for housing and council tax benefit problems but also to help residents get advice about other issues including affordable housing, flexible home loans, social care for adults and children and grants that may be available for home heating and insulation. 

Contacting council services couldn’t be easier.  Here is a list of contacts which will be helpful for people who need help and advice: 

General enquiries                                            01628 683800

Benefits (housing and council tax)             01628 796036

Social care services                                             

            Adult care                                        01628 683744

            Children and families                       01628 683150

Family Information Service                       01628 507587

Affordable housing                                               01628 683685

Energy efficiency                                            01628 683820

Flexible home loans                                        01628 683820 

Information is also available on the Royal Borough’s website www.rbwm.gov.uk or by calling at the council’s customer service centre in the Town Hall, Maidenhead, or York House, Sheet Street, Windsor. 

Other organisations for useful help and advice:

Citizens Advice Bureau                                    01628 621006 (appointments: 01628 674842)

Income Support &

Jobseekers’ Allowance                  0800 055 6688

 Working Tax Credit &

Child Tax Credit                              0845 300 3900

Pension Credit                                     0800 99 1234

Payplan (debt advice)                                   0800 917 7823

National Debtline (debt problems)                   0808 808 4000

Financial Services Authority

      (guides on how to manage money)            0845 606 1234

Consumer Credit Counselling Service            0800 138 1111

Community Legal Advice                         0845 345 4 345

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ASCOT HEATH POOL APPEAL

Ascot Heath Junior School is refurbishing its swimming pool ,which has served its pupils well, since it was built through parents' donations in the 1960s. Work is under way ( see above) , thanks to cash raised by the Parents' Association and the pupils' Swimathon, but organisers are now appealing for donations from local businesses, to complete the job.

Governor, Ray Swatridge,  says: "The Parents Association has raised £11,000, the children raised £2,700  by swimming 60 miles in this summer's Swimathon . We are promised another £2,000, but now need more money. We have spent £6,500 on the structural works already. The pool will be lined with steel and plastic, have two sumps ( as now legally  required)  two sets of steps and has attractive new coping. This will mean much lower maintenance and increased safety, which could mean the pool being available for holiday use. This pool lining technique is by  Shotcheck." "We looked at taking pupils to to public swimming pools but, with our pool,  a lot of time is saved and all children can swim twice a week in the summer term," he added , " In the long term, we might consider refurbishing the changing rooms, adding toilets, and even covering the pool."

Mr. Swatridge says donations  to this Splash for Cash campaign, of any size, will  also be welcome from  former pupils and parents. Contact the school office on 01344 883353. 

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Local Rotary Club commits to “End Polio Now” project.

 In December 2007, Rotary International received from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation a gift of US$100 Million (£65 Million) that Rotary will match over the next three years. This has given rise to the Polio Challenge to every Rotary Club in the world to raise $1,000 each year for the next three years.

The Rotary Club of Ascot has risen to the challenge and has now pledged its initial support towards this target, with an immediate contribution of £500, to be followed by similar sums in future years.

President David Marshall said, “This project provides an opportunity for Rotary Clubs around the world to work together towards a single global humanitarian goal.  We are very pleased in Ascot to be playing our part in the process.”

Polio mainly affects children under the age of five, invading the nervous system and often causing total paralysis in a matter of hours. There is no cure for polio, but it can be prevented through immunisation.

Remarkable progress has been achieved in the fight against polio.  Since Rotary began its PolioPlus program in 1985, polio cases have fallen by 99 percent from 350,000 a year to 1,313 in 2007.  Today, polio remains endemic in just four countries: Afghanistan, India, Nigeria, and Pakistan.  To date, Rotary has contributed more than £440 million and countless volunteer hours to the protection of more than 2 billion children in 122 countries.

  Friendship&Fellowship

·   Community   support,

·    Networking 

·    Enjoyable  activities!  

      Personal Development

www.rotaryascot.org djones@vodeodo.demon.co.uk


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DISCOUNTS AND SPECIAL OFFERS

Click on the following link, to see the Royal Borough's Advantage Card newsletter, showing a host of special offers and booking opportunities for  Card holders.  http://123campaign.com/web_link.php?ml_uid=49107acd6266a&lf=2008_10 

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VILLAGE HALL  IMPROVED THANKS TO BERKSHIRE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

As Sunningdale Village Hall approaches its centenary year it certainly isn’t curtains for the organisation that has been run by volunteers since 1909!                                                                                          But new curtains have been on the “Wish List” of the charity’s management committee and their wish has now come true thanks to a “Grassroots” grant from the Berkshire Community Foundation.

Young Charlie Sefton, two, could play “Peak-a-Boo” with his Mum, Julie, through the holes in the curtains at Sunningdale Village Hall!  Julie, the hall’s honorary treasurer, successfully applied for a grant to replace these old ones.  They were made 20 years ago by Mrs Joan Clarke, of Sunning Avenue, Sunningdale.

Said hall secretary Jane O’Kill: “We were thrilled to learn that our application had been successful.  We all know how expensive even the smallest, most functional curtains can be and our Victorian hall has huge windows!

“This grant of £2,500 will enable us to buy new, fireproof curtains.  Our old curtains were very, very old. We’re pleased that our large hall will be smartened up in time for our centenary year and, although the hall is very well used, we hope to hold some extra events – like a Barn Dance – to mark 100 years of our hall in Church Road.”

The Berkshire Community Foundation has been dedicated to helping small, local voluntary and community groups who provide vital services to people in Berkshire through its grant-making programme for 22 years.

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TIME TO TEAM UP FOR WHEELBARROW RACE

CLICK HERE  for an entry form

SUNNINGHILL FANCY DRESS WHEELBARROW RACE

 The 13th annual race will be held on New Year’s Day, 1st January 2009 at 12 noon.

It will start and finish at the School Road car park behind St Michael’s School in the centre of Sunninghill.

This annual fun-filled family event is in aid of the Ascot District Day Centre and will clear the cobwebs from the Old Year and its celebrations.   

The aim of the race is for teams of four (men, women or mixed) to push a wheelbarrow, or other form of wheeled transport, like a pram, with one of their number in it, around the marshalled course.  Along the way there are six stopping points, including three pubs and three other ‘fuelling’ stations, where each member drinks either a ½ pint of beer, lager, soft drink or water.   

Teams should be given a name and members should be over 18, or at least one of them.  Anyone under 18 is only allowed to participate on the strict understanding that he or she is only allowed to drink soft drinks or water, and identification may be sought by the publicans or marshals.  

The GOOD NEWS is that any drink consumed during the race by the participants is FREE!

As this is a charitable function, organised with the support of the Rotary Club of Ascot, and there is no entry fee, we ask all entrants to obtain as much sponsorship as possible, which will form part of the donation to the Ascot District Day Centre. 

Although this is called a race, and indeed there is a trophy for the fastest time, it is also a fancy dress parade and there are prizes for the team with the best fancy dress and for the team raising the most sponsorship money. 

After the event the participants and their supporters are invited to gather at the Carpenters Arms for a snack and further drinks when there will be a raffle and auction with superb prizes. 

We are now taking entries and a form is available.  Please complete and return it to:- Rtn. David Mear, 1 Fir Tree Close, ASCOT SL5 9LJ.   

If you are unable to take part, please come and cheer on the teams.

 

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CLEANER REQUIRED                         

 

 

 

The CMI is a small community building on Church Road, Sunningdale, opposite Holy Trinity Church. We hire out our rooms for various classes and courses, and have a community café, Rendezvous, open week days.

We require a cleaner for two hours per day, Monday to Friday. 

Time to be arranged. 

Please contact Donelle Fryer for more information on:   01344 297250    orcmirendezvous@aol.com

 

 

NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH NEWS

CLICK HERE to see the local Neighbourhood Watch latest newsletter.

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SPAE WELCOMES PLANNING DECISIONS

The Society for the Protection of Ascot & Environs (SPAE)  report on two separate planning applications in the Ascot area which involved demolishing individual houses and replacing them with multiple units have been turned down by the Government Planning Inspectorate.

The news was welcomed by the Society for the Protection of Ascot, which had opposed the schemes, and a spokesman said : "There has been too much of this type of development in the area, particularly with blocks of flats being built on single-home sites, and we hope the tide has now turned."

The first application was to demolish a house called Ashish Niva in Sunning Avenue, Sunningdale, and replace it with a block of 13 apartments. A similar plan was rejected a couple of years ago, but this time the developer submitted a slightly smaller proposal. The Royal Borough of Windsor & Maidenhead turned this down too, and the developer appealed to the Planning Inspectorate.  

The Planning Inspector, who held the appeal hearing, has now ruled against the development saying it "would be completely out of character and would cause significant harm to the street scene."

He said that, in combination with other developments in the area, it could lead to increased usage if Chobham Common which is a Special Protected Area as it is a breeding ground for three rare species of bird.

The other application, which had also been turned by the RBWM, was to knock down a single house, Meadow Court, in London Rd, Ascot, and replace it with four semi-detached houses.

Another Planning Inspector ruled against it on the grounds  that it was over-development, would cause traffic and noise problems, and could also have an adverse impact on the SPA. 

From Peter O'Kill, SPAE press officer, 01344 627694

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Family Fun Day Success

All Saints Church opened their doors for a family fun day recently, which was greatly enjoyed, raised money for good causes and reached out to Ascot residents. 

Who was invited?

Everyone!  Our Church families and most importantly the wider community.  This was an opportunity for us as a Church to invite the local people to come and experience the energy of All Saints in a relaxed, informal environment.

What was on offer?

Victoria ( The  Tiger)

For children, an entrance fee of £3 was charged to cover a variety of activities such as Godly Play Story, face painting, biscuit decorating, Harvest basket craft, welly throwing, splat the rat, children’s quizzes, refreshments and Christian song time to finish.

For the adults there were Homemade Cakes, Doughnuts donated by Krispy Krème - Slough, an Italian Quiz, Name the Teddy and an Italian Hamper Raffle won by Ian and Millie Gregory.

Rosalie on the Rocking Horse

What else was there?

A toy sale was held in aid of New Beginnings Orphanage in Albania.  All the toys were donated by church families and raised £20.

Why were we there?

To outreach to the wider community and welcome them through our doors.

To raise funds for Godly Play equipment etc. used in the children’s services.

What happened on the day?

It was a fantastic success; we embraced approximately one hundred people during the afternoon and raised £543.

Comments from those who were there

“Wonderful idea to charge a small entrance fee enabling the children to participate in everything without constantly asking parents for money.  This made the afternoon enjoyable for the adults too.”

“Great atmosphere, everyone was enjoying the sunny afternoon with conversation, refreshments and fun, which spilled out onto the lawn.”

“I didn’t know you could have so much fun working in the kitchen, providing refreshments” (from the kitchen volunteers).

“Good to see so many fathers supporting their Mini mass partners – washing up, sweeping, child watching etc.”

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'The Bigger Picture', part of Northern Parishes Arts Week, was held  on Thursday, October 30,  at Carnation Hall. Well known local artist Aurora Spain ran her popular 'bigger picture' painting workshop, for all abilities, adults and children over 8. The picture of Samba, above, was  divided into sections, each person re-worked a section in their own way and the transformed picture is put back 
together again. The results can be seen below.

Some of the  Bigger Picture Participants With Aurora (above)

 

The Arts Week events, aimed at parish residents, continue into the weekend. Visit www.winkfieldparishcouncil.gov.uk  or see the AscotMatters home page.

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New courses starting at Charters Adult Education after half term. Click on the poster below

Presentation of “X-Dream Reality Bikes” to Charters  

The Rotary Club of Ascot President, David Marshall and representatives of the Children With Special Needs Foundation were at Charters School on Friday for the handover of two “X-Dream Reality Bikes” to the school. The bikes, costing some £7000 each, were jointly funded by the two organisations; the Rotary Club contribution arising from their Charity Golf Day held in August this year.

President David Marshall of the Rotary Club of Ascot tries out a Reality Bike

Gordon Parris, Chairman of The Children with Special Needs Foundation said, "The Charity is extremely pleased once again to be able to support the pupils of Charters School, enabling them to have the best equipment to help them with their educational needs.

Presentation of the cheque for the Reality Bikes  LtoR Marcia Twelftree (Head Teacher), David Marshall (President of RC Ascot), Anne Parris, Children With Special Needs Foundation

Marcia Twelftree, Head Teacher at Charters School said, "We are extremely grateful to The Children with Special Needs Foundation and the Rotary Club for their on-going generosity to the pupils at Charters School. The additional resources we have been able to provide with these donations make a real difference to the education and well-being of our students with special needs."

Mr Steve Harvey, Sports Direct at Charters School said, "It is the opportunity for the resource students to fully integrate on a level playing field that makes the new X-Dream bikes so very special." David Marshall, President, Rotary Club of Ascot, said, "We are pleased to work again with The Children with Special Needs Foundation to fund such a worthwhile local project. We look forward to further joint projects in the future."

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Local Heat of Rotary “Young Chef” Competition. 

The East Berkshire heat of the Rotary “Young Chef” competition took place at the Licensed Victuallers School on Tuesday.  Six young people from local schools demonstrated their skills at producing a healthy meal for two persons, with a budget of just £10.  The local competition is jointly promoted by the Rotary Clubs of Ascot, Bracknell and Wokingham, and is sponsored by the Waitrose Store in Sunningdale.

Runner up Jonathon Fielder with his Trophy (Shield), pictured with Judges Geoff Du-Feu and Elly Mercer. (above)

Winner Abbie Alston is presented with the trophy (Cup) by Rotary Club of Ascot President David Marshall.  (With Judges Geoff Du-Feu and Elly Mercer.)

  The winner of the heat was 15-year old Abbie Alston from Ranelagh School, Bracknell, and runner up was Jonathan Fielder, also 15, from the Licensed Victuallers School.  Abbie’s menu comprised Poached Chicken, followed by Clementine Cheesecake, whilst Jonathan served up Chicken Tawayha followed by Banoffee Pie.The judges, Geoff Du-Feu, who trained and worked at the Savoy, and Elly Mercer, a former Good Food Guide Restaurateur, praised the contestants for the high standard of food preparation that had been demonstrated in the competition.

Each competitor had been selected through a preliminary competition within their own school to gain a place in the local heat, and they were presented with their school-winners cups by the Presidents of the Rotary Clubs, David Marshall (Ascot), Allan Emmet (Bracknell) and David Auger (Wokingham).

The WInner's Table

After the judges had evaluated the dishes, they were presented on a table arrangement for parents and visitors to inspect.  About 30 parents and visitors attended and this year they were able to watch proceedings in the kitchen via closed-circuit television.  During the cooking phase visitors enjoyed a buffet provided by Sodexho Education, who provide the facilities management at the Licensed Victuallers School.

The winner and runner up will now go forward to the District Final next March, the winner of which goes forward to a Regional Final in May, after which the National Final takes place in London.  The winner of the National Final receives a trophy, £250, a trip to Tuscany provided by Filippo Berio Olive Oil, and a day in Fifteen Restaurant, founded by Jamie Oliver. 

NEW FLATS APPLICATION

The North Ascot Residents Association says it is concerned that a planning application has been lodged with Bracknell Forest Borough Council, for two buildings with 8 two bedroom flats at 121-123 Fernbank Road, especially in the light of recent permission granted for blocks of flats at 127a, 129, and 131, Fernbank Road. For more information, click on this link https://my.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/publicaccess/tdc/tdc_home.aspx

 

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'TESCO' APPLICATIONS PROGRESS

Sunninghill and Ascot Parish Council has objected to many aspects of of the latest planning applications for  Tesco Express/ One Stop Shop at 1 - 3 Sunninghill High Street, on the grounds of potential opening hours, neighbour amenity and highway issues, while accepting advice that there are few planning grounds for refusing the proposals for the shop front.   

There are now separate planning applications, for altering the shop front, reconfiguration and extension of the retail floorspace and externally illuminated signs. There is also an application which is a duplicate of the one which has gone to appeal.

Speaking at the October 21 Parish Council Planning meeting, Peter Standley of the  Society for the Protection of Ascot and Environs, said that SPAE is proposing to raise with the Borough, the issue of potentially long opening hours, and they are concerned about the unsustainability of the proposals generally, as  well as the lack of on-site warehousing, which could result in a high frequency of deliveries. However, he said: "Treatment of the frontage is reasonably sympathetic. The main difference would be larger windows, which would allow you to see into the shop."

 Chairman of the Parish Planning Committee, Cllr Barbara Hilton, concluded: "There is a huge highway issue which hasn't been addressed."

The potential for  noisy , refrigerated deliveries out of hours, or deliveries during the day, on a very congested street corner, weight limits on the railway bridge and extensive waste collection, were also raised. "

Cllr Hilton said: "A serious issue is the opening of the shop (as it is) which they are entitled to do, at the turn of the year, so opening before the Appeal in February."

Applications refs 08/2350, 08/2353, 08/2354, 08/2355 08/2356

There will be a three day Planning Appeal Hearing, starting February 10, in the Desborough Suite, Town Hall, Maidenhead. Appeal documents can be inspected beforehand, by arrangement. Call 01344 630141.

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  JUDY BRYANT'S OCTOBER GARDENING FEATURE

CLICK HERE or on the bulbs, to read all about Preparing for Daffodils

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LIGHT UP A LIFE 2008

Thames Hospicecare has held a Light Up a Life campaign every Christmas for several years, which culminates in a remembrance service held at the hospice.

People make a donation of any amount, towards the hospice’s work and they dedicate that donation and a light on the Hospice Christmas tree in the name of a person that they love and wish to remember in this way. Often those taking part will be remembering someone who received care at the hospice, but people who have had nothing to do with the hospice at all are also welcome to dedicate a light.  

The service and the event as a whole play a significant part in the bereavement service the hospice offers to families and friends. It is carefully put together, with the close involvement of  the Patient Services Team, Chaplains and Nursing Staff. The aim is that the service may be of real comfort to people at Christmas, which can be a particularly tough time for those who’ve been bereaved. 

There will be  three services, two in Windsor and one in Ascot in the first week of December.  CLICK HERE for a dedication form from the Thames Hospicecare website.

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Coworth-Flexlands Mums’ Drive to Kosovo

  

Two adventurous Coworth-Flexlands mums have once again collected toys, clothing, furniture and food for underprivileged children in Kosovo.  Donna Leech and Kate Chislett set off on Thursday from Coworth-Flexlands School in their lorry loaded with goods.  It will take five days to drive in convoy with eight other lorries to reach Eastern Europe where they will then distribute the goods to school and homes in the villages around Kosovo. 

The mums have once again taken on the mercy mission for the Hope and Aid Direct charity.  They will be helped with distribution of the goods by the Mother Theresa Foundation in Kosovo. 

“It has taken us all year to collect the goods which have been kindly stored free of charge in Farnborogh by Lok’nStore,” said Donna.  “So a big thank you to them and also to another Coworth-Flexlands mum, Penny Rider, for all her help with the packing and loading of the goods.”

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Businesses and schools warned not to fall prey to advertising con trick

Businesses and schools across the Royal Borough are being warned of an advertising con that aims to get cash for non-existent publications. 

The Royal Borough’s trading standards service says that businesses are receiving unsolicited phone calls – claiming  they are from the police and asking for support for a crime prevention initiative.  What the callers are really doing is getting the businesses’ details so that the scammers can send an invoice for an advert in a non-existent publication.  If they are challenged, they will say they had agreement by phone.

Cllr Colin Rayner, lead member for highways, transport and environment, said: “These unscrupulous companies will stop at nothing to get your agreement to place an advert.  It’s a good idea to ask them for a copy of their publication before agreeing to place any advertising. In my experience if you do this they normally put the phone down! 

“The messages to businesses are clear - always check who you are dealing with and don’t agree to anything over the phone.  If it seems too good to be true, chances are it is!”

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Ascot business Park Studios attracts Fashion designers 

A group of fashion designers led by local councillor, Lynda Yong,has agreed terms to move to the new workshops at Ascot Business Park.

“We have been looking for a long time for small units and finally found exactly what we are looking for. It is very rare in this area for a business to be able to by its own freehold and control overheads” said Lynda.

Developer Bill Raspin said “We are delighted to welcome Lynda and her team. They are exactly the kind of small business we were hoping to attract to the Park.”

Lynda Yong and her Team at Twin Cheeks

The group, who consider themselves “Ascots best kept secret”,specialise in Couture fashion, wedding dresses, Jewellery, Handbags, shoes, and Corsets. They have an impressive clientele, including five Royal families around the world. Some of their products can be found on www.twincheeks.biz

 The workshops at Ascot Business Park due to be completed in November comprise a delightful two story terrace providing workshops ranging in size from 1,000 sq ft upwards. They are fitted with loading doors to the ground floor, dedicated parking and disabled WC and shower room.

See below for full photo report on the progress at Ascot Business Park, or click on the logo

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SUNNINGDALE ART SOCIETY EXHIBITION

The Sunningdale Art Society Autumn Exhibition is on this weekend at Sunningdale Village Hall, Church Road, till 5pm on Sunday.

Alan Brain, member of the Society stands beside one of the highlights of the exhibition, 'Mediterranean Blue' by Basil Slyfield.

Parish Council Chairman, Cllr Christine Gadd (pictured above right), said: " I am amazed at the marvellous talent here in Sunningdale. This really is a very high standard." The paintings are 'Piglets' by Caroline Jepson (above, right) and 'Percy Pig' by Rosemarie de Goede S.W.A.

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DAY CENTRE BENEFACTORS DINNER

Left to right: Chris Edwards, Barbara Donovan,