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Slough’s teenage entrepreneurs are preparing to compete for custom and demonstrate their business skills in the annual Young Enterprise Trade Fair on Saturday, 2nd February in The Queensmere shopping centre from 9am.

The sixth form students from Slough’s grammar and secondary schools have been running their own companies producing a variety of products and services during their academic year in the Young Enterprise Company Programme.

With advice from local business volunteers, they have been gaining first hand experience of business skills through the highs and lows of running a real company of their own by being company directors, with a board elected from amongst their peers. They then raise share capital, produce their product, market and promote it.

At the end of the year they liquidate the company and present a report and accounts in the first stages of a national competition.

At this year’s Trade Fair, products and services include many original gift ideas for Valentine's Day, Mother Days, Easter and other special occasions at competitive prices.

Last years winning company was Galileo who designed a puzzle.

Shabnam Ali, from Slough Borough Council who is a member of the board for Young Enterprise, said: “The council is really committed in developing an enterprise culture and supporting people into self employment.

“The idea of getting young people in the borough to come up with a product to sell and learn all the background to business is extremely appealing and works very well. I’m looking forward to seeing what the young entrepreneurs have come up with this year.”

Commissioner for economic development, Slough Cllr Derek Cryer, added: “Last year all the young people who joined in the scheme came up with some fantastic ideas and came away with a really good sense of what it takes to run a business.

“The collaboration between businesses in Slough and the sixth formers is invaluable and a real boost to the scheme and the next generation of the town’s workers.”

Jenny Scully, young enterprise programme manager for Berkshire, said: “The Trade Fair is an excellent way to experience the reality of being in ‘the marketplace’. As part of the company programme, the fair is a marvellous showcase for the achievements of these young budding entrepreneurs who develop their skills, knowledge and confidence in just one year. Whilst they are totally responsible for their own decisions each company is guided by a volunteer from the business community, a perfect example of how business can influence the future workforce and inspire enthusiasm and entrepreneurial flair.

The Deputy Mayor will judge the best stall and The Mayor will give out the prize.

Slough Borough Council

Slough Borough Council’s trading standard’s team are warning residents to be on the look out for an illicit vodka being sold in the town.

The vodka, called 1806 Christoff 100 per cent Pure Grain, originates from an illegal manufacturing plant in Cardiff. This has now been closed down, but some bottles were distributed before action was taken and a number of them have turned up in Slough.

During an investigation into counterfeit spirits, 15 bottles of the vodka were found in the borough.

Analysis carried out on the vodka has revealed that it is a diluted industrial strength alcohol that has methanol content many times higher than normal. If consumed, it would be harmful to human health.

Peter Adshead, senior trading standards officer for Slough Borough Council, said: “This vodka poses a real danger to health and we will continue to carry out checks to make sure any remaining bottles are removed.

“If anyone knows of retailers selling it or has some in their possession, then we urge them to get in contact with us.”

Commissioner for public protection, Cllr John Edwards, said: “It is very concerning that this harmful vodka has been found in Slough.

“It’s so important that residents are aware of it and report it if found, as the consequences of drinking it can be very damaging to health. The team will continue to monitor the situation, but we still need the public’s help.”

If anyone is aware of any premises selling this vodka, has any concerns or requires advice, please contact the Slough Borough Council’s trading standards team on 01753 875255.

Slough Borough Council

Thanks to its £45 million grant, People 1st (Slough) will be able to supply more than 12 times the amount of new kitchens, bathrooms, heating and security doors than last year.

In the first three months of 2008, People 1st (Slough) will install:

* 501 new kitchens compared to 52 last January to March
* 453 new bathrooms compared to 52 last January to March
* 134 new central heating systems compared to 46 last January to March
* 800 new Secure by Design doors

The Arms Length Management Organisation was awarded the grant following a comprehensive inspection in October 2007 and achieved a two star rating.

People 1st Chief Executive, Andrew Billany, said: “This funding is fantastic news and has allowed us to increase the decent homes programme straight away, which everyone is extremely pleased about.

“We are committed to improving Slough’s council housing and the fact that we are able to refurbish such a significant amount of homes in such a short amount of time is very promising for the council and its residents.”

Commissioner for housing, Cllr Tony Haines, said: “On comparison to last year, the news of the increase in refurbishing homes really is excellent.

“It will make such a difference to council tenants across Slough who may be waiting for much needed work to their homes.”

Slough Borough Council

On the morning of 24/1, police from Berkshire East assisted officers from the Metropolitan Police Service, who carried out a number of search warrants at addresses mainly in the Chalvey area of Slough.

I would like to reassure the residents of Chalvey and the wider community of Slough that this was a pre-planned operation by our colleagues, specifically targeting individuals suspected of belonging to organised crime networks who are not only involved themselves, but also criminally exploit others, often young children, to commit offences on their behalf .

Today’s operation is nothing to do with terrorism or terrorist activity of any kind.

The warrants executed this morning are in connection with crimes committed in the London area. However, should any offences relating to Slough or Thames Valley Police come to light; then we will deal with them accordingly in liaison with our colleagues at the Metropolitan Police Service.

I appreciate many residents would have woken up to a rather large police presence in Chalvey this morning, however it is our intention to ensure that any disruption is kept to a minimum and that the areas concerned return to normality as soon as possible.

Members of the neighbourhood policing team are on duty and will be able to address local concerns.

I would like to emphasise that today’s operation has been carried out solely to target law breakers and those involved in organised crime networks and not any particular section of the community.

Although this highly visible operation has taken place mainly in Chalvey today, I would like to reassure the residents that overall crime in their area has fallen over the past nine months. Between April and December 2007, overall crime was down 3.8% compared to the same period in 2006. This is in line with the current crime trend in Slough which shows significant reductions in some key categories for example robbery down 20%, criminal damage down 13%, theft from the person down 6%, violent crime also down 6%, and racially aggravated crime down 17%.

Slough welcomes new communities and benefits from strong community links. A large percentage of the established community are from minority ethnic groups and the town is well known for its diversity. Good community and race relations are of paramount importance to the way in which the area is policed. We have a dedicated team of community and diversity officers who provide specialist advice and support in operations of this kind as well as day to day policing.

In partnership with Slough Borough Council and the Metropolitan Police Service, we have personally written to a number of householders in the areas where today’s operation has taken place.

Thames Valley Police ~ Slough

Slough Young People’s Centre (SYPC) is pleased to announce the launch of a new art qualification for those wanting to develop their creative skills further.

The Arts Award is a national qualification, available for 14 to 25 year olds, which encourages creative, communication and leadership skills, whilst preparing young people for further education and employment.

There are three levels to the award, which are the equivalent of between GCSE’s and A Level’s.

Arts development officer at Slough Young People’s Centre, Kristiina Paul, said: “Many of the skills the young residents will learn are exactly what college, university and employers are looking for.

“It’s about young people making creative choices, setting themselves challenges and sharing their skills and achievements.”

Commissioner for Slough education, Cllr David Munkley, said: “It is fantastic news that the centre is able to offer this qualification.

“It’s vital that young people are encouraged to use and develop their skills and in doing so, they really set themselves up for the future.”

The Arts Award was developed in partnership with Arts Council England and Trinity Guildhall. It suits a wide range of young people as it recognises individual development, not specific skill levels.

For more information about the award, please contact Kristiina Paul on 01753 539300 or call into SYPC on the high street.

Slough Borough Council

Details of the £400m Heart of Slough project have been revealed by English Partnerships, the national regeneration agency, and Slough Borough Council, and residents are invited to an exhibition to find out more.

Development partners for the scheme, Berkeley Homes and Development Securities have also released detailed images of the homes and offices to be built as part of the project.

The Heart of Slough programme is set to revitalise and re-energise the Berkshire town’s centre and will result in:

* 1,500 new homes built in the town centre
* over 34,000 sq m net of new office space
* a new bus station
* a new hotel established to form the hub of a restaurant quarter

In addition a stunning new building will provide an iconic landmark for Slough and house the new library alongside St Ethelbert’s church.

Artist's impression of the Heart of Slough masterplanThe public will get a chance to see the plans in detail at a public exhibition in the Queensmere Centre, Slough on 24th, 25th and 26th January.

The new plans feature the removal of the existing roundabout on the A4. This will then release land, on each of the corners of the new junctions, and facilitate wider development for residential and commercial growth while replacing the bus station with a more modern friendly alternative.

The project will also provide improved street level pedestrian links from the bus and train stations to the existing shopping district and High Street.

English Partnerships’ £13.5 million role in assuming responsibility for the masterplan; designing and implementing infrastructure works to the junction; and building the new bus station, has facilitated this comprehensive scheme.

New homes and facilities on the Thames Valley University siteThe scheme has sustainability as a core development principle and all homes, constructed by Berkeley Homes, will be to a minimum of Level three of the Code for Sustainable Homes. Equally the office space provided by Development Securities will conform to a minimum BREEAM “Very Good” standard.

David Ashworth, area director for English Partnerships, said: “I’m pleased English Partnerships is playing such a pivotal role in revitalising the Heart of Slough. It is exciting to see the masterplan take shape and help it come to fruition.

“I congratulate the whole development team on bringing the project to life as they have.

“I know that, having consulted widely and taken advice we will deliver a scheme that will bring real benefits to the community and make Slough a city ready for growth in the 21st Century.

“The provision of affordable homes, the regeneration of the town centre and the re-use of brownfield land are key elements of the project.

“The exciting architecture and the increase in civic pride which we believe the project will engender, make these plans a real triumph.

“I look forward to having comments from the community during and after the exhibition. Public consultation will be ongoing and we welcome comments and suggestions.’

The Heart of Slough project will join a number of existing initiatives instigated by Slough Borough Council to revitalise the town.

Cllr Dexter Smith, commissioner for planning and transportation for Slough Borough Council, said: “The Heart of Slough is great news for the town and its people. It will bring the borough into the 21st century and give us a town centre to be proud of.

“I think the residents will find these plans have the necessary wow factor that we have all been waiting for.

“It has taken a long time for the project to reach this point and there have been many people and organisations involved. There is a lot of work still to be done but it’s a very exciting time to be a resident in this town.”

Alongside English Partnerships and Slough Borough Council, the key development partners are Berkeley Homes, who will design and build the residential element of the scheme, and Development Securities, who will develop the new office buildings.

Duncan Trench, head of delivery, Development Securities, commented: “We are delighted to have reached the stage where we have resolved the masterplan design issues with Slough BC's technical teams.

“It has taken a while but this is a complicated scheme with many interests to consider. A future for Slough's town centre has now been mapped out and we hope that Slough's community will embrace the vision.”

It is hoped planning consent will be granted by the late summer and construction will begin in the spring of 2009. If approved the scheme is set to be completed by 2018.

Slough Borough Council

Slough Borough Council is asking all private foster carers in Slough looking after non family members to notify the council of the arrangement as soon as possible.

The Slough council is keen to speak to them to offer information and support, such as financial advice about benefits which they may be entitled to and to be made aware of the children involved.

An awareness campaign was launched on Wednesday January 23rd, to help safeguard any child in private fostering and was the first of its kind by the British Association for Adoption and Fostering (BAAF).

Private fostering is when a child under the age of 16 (under 18 if disabled) is placed in the care of someone who is not their parent or close relative through a private agreement made between their parent and a carer, for 28 days or more.

A close relative is defined as a step-parent, grandparent, brother, sister, uncle or aunt (whether of full blood, half blood or by marriage).

The Slough council is urging parents and private foster carers to give information about the child and where they are living.

Crucially, professionals who come into regular contact with children and young people, such as teachers, doctors and youth workers, can also play a vital role in identifying privately fostered children and keeping them safe.

Slough Borough Council was notified of two private fostering arrangements last year, but it believes there are other children living with private foster carers who they know nothing about.

Commissioner for children’s services, Cllr David Munkley, said: “It is vital that anyone who is fostering a child privately lets the council know of the arrangement, as it is the child’s welfare and the valuable advice we can give that is at stake.

“There are many reasons why people foster non family members, and many of these families are happy and vibrant, but the council needs to know about them in order to help in any way it can.”

Laura Eades, chair of the Local Safeguarding Children Board in partnership with Slough Borough Council, said: “Our message is simple: If you think you might be privately fostering, get in touch with us now – it is against the law not to do so and you may be entitled to benefits and support.

“If your child is living with someone outside your immediate family, or you are in the process of arranging this, you should notify the council in the area where the child is going to live.

“And if you work with children and young people and think you may know a privately fostered child, talk to their carer. If they are reluctant to tell the local authority, you should let us know instead. If we do not know about these children, they remain hidden and we are powerless to safeguard them.”

Once Slough Borough Council knows about a private fostering agreement, a social worker will check the suitability of the arrangement and continue to make regular visits to make sure the child is safe and well cared for, as well as offering information and support to carers. The council has the power to remove a child from a private foster care placement if there are concerns for the child's welfare.

To find out more about private fostering and how to notify Slough Borough Council, please call 01753 690960.

Slough Borough Council

A survey conducted by Slough Borough Council’s trading standards team has revealed how ecological new cars are in the town.

Just like fridges and washing machines, cars are labelled to show how ecological they are on CO2 emissions, and Slough’s car dealerships have passed with an 80 per cent compliance rate.

In contrast to the domestic appliances, the car scheme is voluntary.

The team, which is supported by trading standards south east (TSSE), undertook the survey to see how well car dealerships informed customers on the vehicles energy labels.

Of the 302 cars examined at 48 dealers, 239 were found to be displaying the energy label, which amounts to 80 per cent. Most companies were aware of the scheme, with new cars automatically labelled up in the showroom.

With such a high compliance rate, it is a great result for the voluntary scheme, so there will be no need to make it mandatory in Slough.

Principle technical enforcement officer for Slough Borough Council, Angela Satterly, said: “We are really pleased with the results from the survey.

“As a council, we are committed to helping the environment so we were more than happy to be a part of it and help to raise awareness of CO2 emissions from cars.”

Commissioner for public protection, Cllr John Edwards, added: “The results are very encouraging and gives a great boost to our cleaner, safer, greener campaign.

“More and more people want to help protect the environment in anyway that they can, so it really is important for consumers to be given all the necessary information for them to make an informed decision when buying a new car.”

Slough Borough Council

Slough Borough Council’s environmental protection team will be in force from Thursday 17th January, to fine anyone who is found to be dropping litter.

Please keep Slough clean and tidyThe team are working to raise awareness of the consequences of litter offences in the area and anyone caught dropping litter will get a fixed penalty of £80.

Wardens will be in the town centre, and then all over Slough, identifying offenders and ensuring waste is placed in the appropriate facilities. They will also be handing out leaflets and offering advice about the current legislation.

The most common litter consists of food and drink wrappers, cigarettes, and chewing gum, inappropriately discarded by members of the public.

The Slough council is getting tough and targeting litter problems as part of its cleaner, safer, greener campaign, and it will be the first of many activities aimed at making Slough a nicer place to live and visit.

North environmental protection team leader for Slough Borough Council, John Waite, said: “We are dedicated to tackling environmental issues, such as litter offences.

“Litter is a serious problem and by carrying out these types of activities, we hope to educate residents and raise awareness that it is completely unacceptable to just drop litter anywhere.

“No one should have to come to Slough and step over litter left on the ground. It’s unsightly and unhealthy and needs to stop.”

Commissioner for public protection, Cllr John Edwards, added: “These fines given by the wardens should drive home the fact that we will not tolerate littering in Slough.

“We should take great pride in our town, and as part of our cleaner, safer, greener campaign, it is all residents duty to ensure that the streets of the borough are free from rubbish.”

Slough Borough Council

Slough Borough Council has announced that the contract of the Slough Sanctuary Scheme, available for survivors of domestic violence, will be moving to its Home Improvement Agency.

The scheme, launched in 2004, was originally contracted out to a private company. It provides additional security measures, such as window locks, door mortice bolts and window grilles to the homes of any survivor of domestic violence.

This enables them to stay in their home and feel safe, rather than having to move and endure the upheaval involved in moving.

Slough Children are also affected by domestic violence and abuse, often witnessing or hearing incidents, so may also have to leave their home, school or familiar environment. This adds to the distress already experienced from violence and abuse.

The move to the Home Improvement Agency aims to reduce the cost of work carried out, ensuring more homes can be adapted as well as improving multi-agency work within Slough.

Domestic violence co-ordinator for Berkshire East, Sophie Crowe, said: “This is good news for the council and those who are currently in abusive and violent relationships in the borough.

“We are continuously striving to improve the service we provide, and this is a step in the right direction.

“By working with the Home Improvement Agency we hope to be able to secure more homes.”

Commissioner for Slough public protection, Cllr John Edwards, said: “This is a very difficult issue to tackle effectively, but the council, along with Thames Valley Police has already proved how dedicated they are in doing this.

“The move to the Home Improvement Agency is a positive one, and by working together, we can improve the wellbeing of survivors.”

The scheme was developed in partnership with Thames Valley Police, Slough Borough Council and agencies within the domestic violence forum. It is funded by the council’s homeless strategy and is available for anyone living in Slough where the perpetrator is no longer living in the property. In some circumstances it may not be safe for the client to remain in the property, regardless of additional security installed.

For more information on the scheme, you can contact:

* Slough Domestic Violence Unit, 01753 506314
* Slough Borough Council Housing – Homeless Section, 01753 787854
* People 1st Slough, 01753 875491

Slough Borough Council

Slough Borough Council’s library service is delighted to announce it will continue to participate in a special initiative to give free books to children in the town aged from eight months to three years.

Booktrust has confirmed it will deliver the national book gifting programme until 2011, with funding supported by the Department for Children, Schools and Families (DCSF).

There are three categories in the initiative; Bookstart, Bookstart Plus and Treasure Chest.

Special advice packs will also be given to parents to show them exciting and interesting ways to help their child develop skills for reading, along with a lifelong passion for books.

Jackie Menniss, head of library service for Slough Borough Council, said: “This is excellent news for Slough.

“We are delighted to be a part of such a successful scheme that really goes a long way to ensure children are able to develop necessary skills through the joy of reading.”

Commissioner for leisure, cultural and community services, Cllr Julia Long, said: “The children of Slough are a top priority and this news from Booktrust is a boost for families in the community.

“These national programmes are giving children a fantastic start to their education and provide a passion for reading and books which is a great thing.”

Booktrust is sponsored by booksellers, Red House Books and Crayola Ltd.

Slough Borough Council

The Environment Agency has advised that flooding of low-lying land and roads is expected for the River Thames from Windsor Park to Bell Weir Lock. This may result in general flooding problems in the towns and villages of Datchet, Old Windsor and Wraysbury.

River levels on the Thames are still slowly rising due to rainfall over the weekend in combination with last night’s heavy rainfall. The rain will clear this afternoon followed by a brief band of heavy rain.

At the moment it is not anticipated that Slough will be affected.

We will continue to monitor updates and will advise if this changes. The latest information will be available on the Environment Agency website or you can call Floodline on 0845 988188. Slough Residents are advised to tune into local radio stations for updates on the flooding risk and weather. We will also post updates on this site as we receive them. If there is any flooding the council will do all it can to contact residents directly affected.

Below are general guidelines for preparing your home against floods.

Furniture and appliances

* Move as much furniture and electrical items as you can upstairs. Alternatively raise them up on bricks or blocks - this may be very helpful for large appliances such as fridge/freezers
* If you can, roll up carpets and rugs and put them upstairs
* If there is no time to remove curtains, hang them up over the rail so they are kept above flood water
* Leave internal doors open, or ideally, remove them and store them upstairs
* Please be aware of the needs of elderly and vulnerable neighbours and help them if you can

Personal Items

* You cannot replace sentimental items. Think about permanently moving these upstairs, so you do not forget to move them in the case of a flood
* Keep important personal documents in a sealed bag, and in a location safe from floodwater

If the situation worsens our advice is to:

* keep insurance documents to hand in case you need them
* keep a torch or candles handy in case of a power cut
* listen to local radio stations for weather updates. If you are concerned about water or electricity supplies contact: Thames Water – 0845 9200 800 (24hours) and Southern Electricity Board – 0845 770 8090 (24hours)
* For further advice call the Environment Agency Flood line 0845 988 1188

Slough council has also received the following information from Thames Valley Police.

Emergency services have had an influx of 999 calls, if it is not a life threatening emergency the general public are asked to call the Floodline for further information about flooding on 0845 988188. We would like to thank the general public for their understanding and patience.

Slough Borough Council

Godolphin Slough Junior School is delighted to announce the results of its successful Ofsted inspections and are celebrating by forming a chain around the school and giving it a hug.

The report stated that Godolphin is ‘an inclusive school in which each child matters. All pupils are warmly welcomed and equally valued. The outstanding day-to-day care provided for pupils is a feature of the school that is particularly appreciated by parents.’

Praise was also given for the social skills shown by pupils and their spiritual development.

The school was awarded a grading of ‘good - with a number of outstanding features’.

Slough Head teacher Barbara Clark said: “It was a very proud moment for us when we were told Godolphin was a good school. It reflects the hard work of the whole school including the pupils, teachers, governors and the cleaners and canteen staff.

“We want the best for our pupils and by working with the support of the parents we have achieved this. I hope everyone who is associated with the school feels as proud as we do.”

Commissioner for education and children’s services, Slough Cllr David Munkley, said: “The Ofsted report for Godolphin Junior School is an excellent achievement for all the staff and pupils.

“It shows just how hard everybody worked to ensure the pupils get the very best from the school and is also encouraging news for the parents who know their children are receiving a continuous high standard of education.

Slough Borough Council

The Slough Milan Community Centre is celebrating the New Year and the festival of Lohire with fun for all the family on Friday 18th January from 11am to 2pm.

Traditionally, Lohire takes place in India when a family has a baby boy. All the families and friends gather around and sing songs, dance, play games, give each other presents and cook food.

The centre is hoping to recreate this with Indian folk songs, dance, traditional games, and food.

A quiz will also take place with exciting prizes to be won.

The Milan Centre manager, Manoz Verma, said: “This is a great opportunity for the family to celebrate New Year and Lohire in a traditional way.

“We are very excited about holding it at the centre and are sure that everyone will have an excellent time.”

Commissioner for Slough leisure, cultural and community services, Cllr Julia Long, said: “It is important to recognise all cultural celebrations in Slough and the Milan Centre is doing just that.

“I hope that families will come together to help us celebrate this festival and the Indian New Year.”

An estimated 60 service users are expected to attend.

Slough Borough Council

Slough Borough Council’s Energycare scheme is now offering free cavity wall and loft insulation to all homeowners who are 70 or over.

The scheme, which was launched by the council last July, aims to help private homeowners make small changes in the amount of energy they use around the home. This helps to cut back their contribution to global warming and saves on energy bills.

Under this scheme, residents have already been benefiting from free home energy inspections and discounted cavity wall and loft insulation.

Linzi Bagshaw, energy conservation officer for Slough Borough Council, said: “We are extremely pleased with the results already achieved through Energycare and this announcement of free insulation for over 70’s will help us to insulate the homes of older people, who perhaps need it the most.”

To date some 1500 households have signed up for at least one measure, with 950 insulating their lofts and a further 1100 opting to have cavity wall insulation. This is potentially saving 1800 tonnes of Carbon emissions a year.

Energy Services, a surveying company employed under the Energycare scheme, have a team of home assessors based in Slough that offer private householders a free survey and quotation with no obligation. They can be contacted on the Energycare free phone number to arrange an appointment.

Commissioner for public protection, Cllr John Edwards, said: “Householders in Slough have already proved how keen they are to be a part of helping the environment and tackling climate change problems.

“By offering this free insulation we are able to ensure everybody has access to the benefits of insulating their home and it in turn complements our Cleaner, Safer, Greener Slough campaign.”

For more information on the Energycare scheme, please call 0800 043 9569 or email energy@slough.gov.uk.

Slough Borough Council’s main library is offering some great courses for Slough’s adults and families to kick start their New Year and gain some more skills in a fun and relaxed manner.

The majority of the courses offer crèche places, so it will be easy for parents and/or grandparents, to come along.

The courses are:

* Making Stories Fun – Learn storytelling skills and bring stories alive. Every Thursday from the 10th January to 14th February 2008 in the junior Slough library from 10.30am to 11.45am. Crèche available.

* Saturday Computer Workshops for Families – Surf the world with a mouse and find out about countries and cultures. Produce a Power Point presentation, play interactive games and most of all have fun with your children. Every Saturday from 19th January to 9th February 2008 from 1.30pm to 3.30pm. No crèche available.

* Healthy Living Course – Learn basic health awareness issues about food, stress management, child development and communicate with health services. Every Thursday from 28th February to 20th March 2008 in the junior library from 10.30am to 11.45am. Crèche available.

Tracy Briggs, family learning librarian for Slough Borough Council, said: “These courses are designed for adults and families to have lots of fun and learn new skills.

“It’s always great to see families doing activities together and these courses are free of charge, so will suit everyone.”

Commissioner for leisure, Slough cultural and community services, Cllr Julia Long, added: “Children grow up so fast, so it’s a brilliant idea to find ways of doing activities together that everyone can find fun.

“Having the skills to tell your child a story is priceless and one which children really appreciate. IT skills are also paramount in this day and age.

“Hopefully lots of families will attend and enjoy the facilities the library has to offer.”

Slough Borough Council

Slough Borough Council’s youth offending team (YOT) is holding a special awards ceremony on Wednesday, January 9, at the West Wing, in honour of the hard work achieved by the young people involved with the team.

The ceremony starts at 6pm to 8.30pm and certificates will be given for achievements such as leadership, art competitions and completion of anger management courses.

The YOT seeks to prevent young people from offending and maximise their full potential by working with them towards becoming responsible members of the community.

Harvinder Bhachu, YOT student social worker for Slough Borough Council, said: “Many of the young people who come to us to develop their self confidence and respect in themselves.

“At the YOT we try to help them find their path in life and the awards ceremony is a way of celebrating each of the young people’s talents and achievements to date.”

Commissioner for young people’s service, Cllr Sean Wright, added: “It is always important to celebrate the successes of young people, but especially those who need more encouragement and guidance. I hope everyone enjoys themselves on the evening.”

Slough Borough Council

Slough Borough Council’s environmental health team secured a successful prosecution on Friday, January 4th, against Skyways Brassiere on London Road.

Jagdeep Dhawan, owner of the Slough brassiere, pleaded guilty to failing to keep the food premises clean and maintained in good repair and condition, and was fined £4,704 including costs.

On the 8th November 2006, a routine food hygiene inspection was carried out at Skyways Brassiere, trading within the Skyways Hotel and found the kitchen and food rooms extremely dirty.

A large accumulation of long term dirt and old food residue was found around the walls and floor joints. The extraction canopy was extremely greasy; food equipment was unclean with long term accumulations of thick grease and dirt, and inadequate provisions were made for the hygienic washing and drying of hands.

The floor in the Slough kitchen was heavily contaminated with grease and dirt which made it so slippery it posed a risk to workers health and safety. The inspecting senior environmental health officer actually fell over during the visit, causing bruising and swelling to her knees.

On 16th November 2006, a re-visit was carried out to see if recommended changes had been made, but the premises’ again was found not to be clean.

Levine Whitham, senior environmental health officer for Slough Borough Council, said: “After the second visit and the lack of compliance from Mrs Dhawan to clean the premises, more evidence was collected in light of taking formal action. A health and safety improvement notice was served and an inspection report was sent to the food business operator.

“Photographs were taken of the dirt, and scrapings of dirt and grease was collected from the floor in several locations throughout the kitchen. Scrapings included hair, dried food, brown grease, glass, and black composite dirt.

“This was a disgusting kitchen and case of neglect, both for staff working there, and for the customers eating at the restaurant. I am so pleased with the outcome of the hearing and the fine.”

The case was heard at Maidenhead Magistrate Court with the magistrate’s opinion being that Mrs Dhawan had absolutely no respect for the environmental health issues or the environmental health officer's previous warnings.

The magistrate warned that if standards are not maintained, the company will be shut down.

Commissioner for Slough public protection, Cllr John Edwards, added: “Well done to Levine and her team for doing such a wonderful job.

“It beggars belief that any respectful person could operate their business like this. We will not tolerate such behaviour which could put others at risk and I hope this story will go out to others to take such environmental visits seriously.”

Slough Borough Council

Slough Borough Council’s Energycare scheme is now offering free cavity wall and loft insulation to all homeowners who are 70 or over.

The scheme, which was launched by the council last July, aims to help private homeowners make small changes in the amount of energy they use around the home. This helps to cut back their contribution to global warming and saves on energy bills.

Under this scheme, residents have already been benefiting from free home energy inspections and discounted cavity wall and loft insulation.

Linzi Bagshaw, energy conservation officer for Slough Borough Council, said: “We are extremely pleased with the results already achieved through Energycare and this announcement of free insulation for over 70’s will help us to insulate the homes of older people, who perhaps need it the most.”

To date some 1500 households have signed up for at least one measure, with 950 insulating their lofts and a further 1100 opting to have cavity wall insulation. This is potentially saving 1800 tonnes of Carbon emissions a year.

Energy Services, a surveying company employed under the Energycare scheme, have a team of home assessors based in Slough that offer private householders a free survey and quotation with no obligation. They can be contacted on the Energycare free phone number to arrange an appointment.

Commissioner for public protection, Cllr John Edwards, said: “Householders in Slough have already proved how keen they are to be a part of helping the environment and tackling climate change problems.

“By offering this free insulation we are able to ensure everybody has access to the benefits of insulating their home and it in turn complements our Cleaner, Safer, Greener Slough campaign.”

For more information on the Energycare scheme, please call 0800 043 9569 or email energy@slough.gov.uk.

Slough Borough Council

For anyone with a New Year’s resolution of getting fit and healthy, Slough Borough Council’s main library is offering support and advice in some special workshops.

Slough’s Health Action Programme advisers (SHAPE) will be available to offer free support and information on how to quit smoking, drug or alcohol addiction, healthy eating and heart health for all the family.

The informal and laid back workshops will be held every Saturday from January 5th through to the end of February between 10am and 3pm on the first floor of Slough Library.

Tracy Briggs, librarian for Slough Borough Council, said: “The New Year is always a great opportunity for people to either quit smoking or adopt a healthier lifestyle.

“The SHAPE workshops will give people advice on the best ways to stay healthy and is designed to let people know there is help out there for them.”

Cllr Julia Long, commissioner for Slough leisure, cultural and community services for Slough Borough Council, added: “What better way to get fit and healthy than having help and advice on hand from the library.

“These workshops, which have been running since mid-last year, have proven to be a great success. I wish everyone a very happy and healthy New Year.”

For further information, please contact the library on 01753 787526.

Slough Borough Council

Police are appealing for witnesses after an incident at a pub in Slough this morning (2/1).

At about 8.45am, a man walked into The Red Squirrel, Burnham Lane, Slough threatened members of staff with a firearm and stole a large sum of cash, before making off down Haymill Road in a black Volkswagen Golf.

The man is white, approximately 5 ft 6ins, and stocky. He has blue eyes and was wearing a brown balaclava, a tan-coloured jacket and beige trousers.

Anyone who saw this man or the car, or has any information which could assist police with their enquiries, is urged to contact Det Con Kulvinder Bansal of Slough CID via the 24-hour Police Enquiry Centre on 0845 8 505 505. If you don’t want to speak to police or leave your name, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Thames Valley Police ~ Slough

Slough Borough Council is urging residents to have their say on the proposed expansion at Heathrow, which will include a third runway and a sixth terminal building.

The Government has launched its consultation about the plans and Slough residents are invited to a consultation road show in Langley Community Centre on January 23, to find out more.

Cllr Richard Stokes, leader of Slough Borough Council, said: “These proposals have a huge potential impact on Slough, and I ask all residents to come along and find out more about the proposals at the consultation road shows.

“The council is currently looking at the consultation document, and will be putting together its own response very soon.

“The consultation is open until February 27th, and we would encourage residents to consider the full facts before giving a response.

“Some of the issues we are looking at include noise and air pollution and increases to surface traffic, alongside the economic benefits that a bigger Heathrow may bring to Slough.”

The proposals include:

* A 2,200 metre runway in Sipson and Harmondsworth in Hillingdon (which will include demolishing 700 properties)
* A new Terminal Six
* Increasing runway capacity, which will increase aircraft movements from 480,000 to 540,000 per year by changing the mode of existing runway operations for take offs and landing - by 2010
* Continuing to promote the growth in flights to more than 700,000 per year by 2030

Full details are available on the External link icondepartment for transport website (opens a new window) or by calling 0845 6004170.

The consultation road shows are being held at: Colnbrook - Sheraton Heathrow Hotel (14th January 2008), Langley – Community Centre (23rd January 2008). Weekday road shows are open between 10am to 8pm. Saturday road shows are open between 8.30am to 4pm.

Slough Borough Council

A Slough retailer has been fined and told to pay court costs for selling fireworks to a 14 year old.

Fireworks are dangerous in young handsParamjit Singh Gill of Gills off licence on Stoke Poges Lane was fined £250 plus £776 costs for failing to comply with firework safety regulations. He pleaded guilty at Maidenhead Magistrates Court on 21st December.

The fireworks were sold to the 14 year old during a routine test purchase operation, carried out by Slough Borough Council’s trading standards team in November 2006.

Keith Eaglestone, head of Slough trading standards at the council, said: “Every year we hand deliver an educational pack to all traders in the borough where there are age restricted products on sale.

“The pack sets out the legal requirements and indicates what steps should be taken to avoid under age sales of fireworks, alcohol, cigarettes and solvents.

“Despite this, some traders seem to put profit before the safety of school children and flout the law.”

Cllr John Edwards, commissioner for public protection, said: “I am very pleased with this successful prosecution as it shows that Slough is no soft touch for underage sales.

“It is one of our priorities that we continue to make Slough a safer place to live, and we will not tolerate any traders who break the law, particularly when dangerous items such as fireworks get into the wrong hands.

“It is also really encouraging to see that the majority of traders we visit in our test purchasing exercises are well aware of the law, and continue to ask for ID if they are not sure of the age of a customer.”

Slough Borough Council