The sun was shining for the Winkfield Parish Council community walk, arranged by Cllr Derek Wall. Participants enjoyed a relaxed autumnal stroll on paths within Swinley Forest. Keep an eye out on our website and facebook for details of the Spring Walk.
Winkfield 130
To support us in our mission to provide the best possible environment and facilities for the area, our Residents’ Forum, The Winkfield 130, has provided us with some great input on their thoughts about what our communities need. We are working through their feedback and identifying what our next steps should be based on what we’ve been told. If you would like to join the forum please call or email us. It is a very small commitment – we will be asking for your thoughts just two or three times a year –which could make a big difference to Winkfield. Huge thanks go to all those who have joined so far and responded in the first round – it is so helpful.
A network for teachers in Bracknell
The National Education Union has a new secretary in Bracknell Forest.
Rachel Manton is creating a community within the education settings in Bracknell Forest which will foster a strong supportive network for local teaching and support staff, starting with the Great Bracknell Forest Quiz on Friday 7th March (see further details later on in this newsletter).
The NEU is the largest education union representing teachers, lecturers, support staff, and school leaders, in maintained and independent schools and colleges across the UK. If you work in an education setting and would like to get in touch, contact Rachel at rachel.manton@neu.org.uk
Join Our Community!
Join Our Community!
The Chavey Down Association (CDA) was formed over 60 years ago and has been the voice of residents in Chavey Down ever since, as the association was formed to challenge plans by developers that would have a negative impact on the village.
Are you a local resident of Chavey Down? Connect with your neighbours and stay in the loop by joining our Chavey Down Residents Facebook Group!
Are you a local resident of Chavey Down? Connect with your neighbours and stay in the loop by joining our Chavey Down Residents Facebook Group!
This is the official Facebook Group of The Chavey Down Association What’s in it for you?
This is the official Facebook Group of The Chavey Down Association What’s in it for you?
Community Updates: Be the first to know about events, road closures, and important announcements.
Community Updates: Be the first to know about events, road closures, and important announcements.
Local Recommendations: Get trusted advice on everything from tradespeople to the best coffee spots.
Local Recommendations: Get trusted advice on everything from tradespeople to the best coffee spots.
Support & Resources: Need help with something? Post in the group! We’re here to help each other.
Support & Resources: Need help with something? Post in the group! We’re here to help each other.
Buy, Sell, & Share: Looking to sell or find something local? Buy, sell, or swap within your community 15th of each month.
Buy, Sell, & Share: Looking to sell or find something local? Buy, sell, or swap within your community 15th of each month.
Promote your business: Members are welcome to promote their services on the 1st of each month.
Promote your business: Members are welcome to promote their services on the 1st of each month.
Volunteer & Connect: Join efforts to keep our area beautiful and safe, like our Memorial Garden project!
Volunteer & Connect: Join efforts to keep our area beautiful and safe, like our Memorial Garden project!
Be part of a welcoming and supportive community!
Join us on Facebook today: Scan the QR code or search Chavey Down Residents
Be part of a welcoming and supportive community!
Join us on Facebook today: Scan the QR code or search Chavey Down Residents
The CDA maintains a very active Residents Association, with over 100 members and we aim to maintain the sense of community and encourage everyone to participate in village life. In recent times we have hosted an Annual Christmas Carol service, Coronation and Jubilee events including street parties and barbecues in conjunction with St Martin’s church.
The aims of the CDA :
• Protect the local environment (green spaces, trees etc..) from over development and providing a voice for residents against over-development and traffic
• Maintain a sense of community
With that in mind we welcome you to join our newly launched Facebook Group, Chavey Down Residents to help us to continue to raise awareness of what we do and to share local relevant information.
The members of the elected CDA committee are: Ivan Parr, Chairman Colin Yates, Vice Chairman Adrian Hoare, Treasurer Ken Strain, IT Zoe De Sousa, Social Media & Comms
Know what items you can recycle & where within the Parish of Winkfield
Recycle bottles at:
Asher Recreation Ground, Cranbourne
Recycle clothes at:
Ascot Jubilee, Goaters Road
Carnation Hall, Chavey Down Road
Asher Recreation Ground, Cranbourne
Locks Ride Recreation Ground, Forest Road
Recycle small electrical at: Parish Council Offices, Fernbank Road BE MINDFUL OF YOUR ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT.
WINKFIELD PARISH COUNCIL CONTINUES TO GO GREEN WITH 100% RENEWABLE ELECTRICITY!
We are extremely proud that each and every one of our Parish Council premises continue to be powered by 100% renewable electricity. Our commitment to sustainability is confirmed by the recently issued Annual Energy certificates for our premises, reflecting our dedication to reducing our carbon footprint and promoting a greener future for our community. Copies of the certificates are displayed at our premises.
Cheer for Climate Change by
Cllr Emily Blyth
Winkfield Parish Council will be welcoming the arrival of Spring with a special one-day event celebrating our beautiful area and all we are doing, as a community, to preserve it. “Winkfield and the World” Nature and Climate Festival will take place on Sunday 23rd March, from 1pm until 4pm, at Carnation Hall.
There will be live music all afternoon, representatives from local and wider organisations that work to protect our environment, practical demonstrations and free refreshments, visitors can expect to be inspired, entertained and informed. There will be opportunities to ask questions, pick up freebies and even be part of a tree-planting!
Please come along and support this event, which is free and open to everyone. More details will be on our website and social media in the coming weeks
Please visit our website for more information on specific sites.
Locks Ride, Asher, Fernbank Road play space, King George V and Blackmoor Close play space are all DOG FREE zones
December, with the help of Liza Challis & Felicity Wise, local residents creating their own festive wreaths to display on their front doors.
WREATHMAKING WORKSHOPS
addition to creating beautiful wreaths, these workshops also provide a connection to nature. Many of the materials used are locally or sustainably harvested, allowing participants to appreciate the of the natural world while supporting eco-friendly practices. With perfect balance of fun, creativity, and craftsmanship, our wreathworkshops are a delightful way to celebrate the season and make memories.
Wreathmaking Workshops
In early December, with the help of Liza Challis & Felicity Wise, local residents enjoyed creating their own festive wreaths to display on their front doors.
Early December, with the help of Liza Challis & Felicity Wise, local enjoyed creating their own festive wreaths to display on their front
WREATHMAKING WORKSHOPS
WREATHMAKING WORKSHOPS
In addition to creating beautiful wreaths, these workshops deeper connection to nature. Many of the materials used sourced or sustainably harvested, allowing participants beauty of the natural world while supporting eco-friendly a perfect balance of fun, creativity, and craftsmanship, making workshops are a delightful way to celebrate the lasting memories.
WREATHMAKING WORKSHOPS
In addition to creating beautiful wreaths, these workshops also provide a deeper connection to nature. Many of the materials used are locally sourced or sustainably harvested, allowing participants to appreciate the beauty of the natural world while supporting eco-friendly practices. With a perfect balance of fun, creativity, and craftsmanship, our wreath-making workshops are a delightful way to celebrate the season and make lasting memories.
Early December, with the help of Liza Challis & Felicity Wise, enjoyed creating their own festive wreaths to display on their front doors.
Early December, with the help of Liza Challis & Felicity Wise, local residents enjoyed creating their own festive wreaths to display on their front doors.
In addition to creating beautiful wreaths, these workshops also provide a deeper connection to nature. Many of the materials used are locally sourced or sustainably harvested, allowing participants to appreciate the beauty of the natural world while supporting eco a perfect balance of fun, creativity, and craftsmanship, our wreath making workshops are a delightful way to celebrate the season and make lasting memories.
Early December, with the help of Liza Challis & Felicity Wise, local residents enjoyed creating their own festive wreaths to display on their front doors.
In addition to creating beautiful wreaths, these workshops also provide a deeper connection to nature. Many of the materials used are locally sourced or sustainably harvested, allowing participants to appreciate the beauty of the natural world while supporting eco-friendly practices. With a perfect balance of fun, creativity, and craftsmanship, our wreathmaking workshops are a delightful way to celebrate the season and make lasting memories.
In addition to creating beautiful wreaths, these workshops also provide a deeper connection to nature. Many of the materials used are locally sourced or sustainably harvested, allowing participants to appreciate the beauty of the natural world while supporting eco-friendly practices. With a perfect balance of fun, creativity, and craftsmanship, our wreathmaking workshops are a delightful way to celebrate the season and make lasting memories.
Festive Event
On Sunday, 15th December, the community came together for a festive afternoon at Winkfield Parish Council’s free Christmas Event held at Carnation Hall. The event was organised by Councillor Blyth with support from dedicated staff and volunteers.
The celebration featured performances by the Ascot Ukulele Band, a Community Choir, and a special visit from Santa himself. There was also a chance for a carol sing-along followed by some refreshments.
Thank you to everyone who attended and was part of the event.
In addition to creating beautiful wreaths, these workshops also provide deeper connection to nature. Many of the materials used are locally sourced or sustainably harvested, allowing participants to appreciate beauty of the natural world while supporting eco friendly practices. a perfect balance of fun, creativity, and craftsmanship, our wreath making workshops are a delightful way to celebrate the season and lasting memories.
D-DAY 80 MEMORIAL TREE PLANTING OCTOBER 2024
With autumn being a perfect time for tree planting, Winkfield Parish Council took the opportunity to recognise this 80th year of the anniversary of D-Day by planting two beautiful native Mountain Ash trees. One tree has been planted at King George V Recreation Ground (Winkfield Row) with our Chair, Cllr Dudley, in attendance. The second tree now stands tall at Allsmoor Recreation Ground (Martins Heron). Both trees are accompanied by information plaques to commemorate this historic event and serve as lasting tributes.
ARTS WEEK
The 2024 Binfield, Warfield, and Winkfield Arts Week which took place in October was a remarkable success, celebrating creativity and community engagement across our three parishes. The event featured an array of talented local artists, musicians, and performers, with 41 well attended events and classes over the course of the week.
Attendees enjoyed a diverse programme, including art exhibitions, live performances, workshops, and family-friendly activities. There were so many highlights that it is impossible to single out particular events. We are grateful to all the artists, volunteers, staff and attendees who made this event possible.
This year’s Arts Week not only provided a platform for local talent but also aimed to promote community cohesion and cultural appreciation. Feedback from participants and attendees has been overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing their excitement for future events. Plans for next year’s Arts Week are already underway, with organisers eager to build on this year’s success. Please share your feedback if you took part, and even if you didn’t please tell us what you would like to see in the programme this year. If you know of anyone who might like to take part as a supplier, please tell them to get in touch.
PARISH COUNCILLOR
VACANCIES - Join Us in Making a Difference
Vacancies for Parish Councillors arise from time to time, and this is a fantastic opportunity for you to engage with your community and help shape its future.
Why You Should Apply
• Make a Difference: Be a voice for your community
• Get Involved: Participate in local decision-making
• Meet New People: Work alongside fellow councillors and community members
What We’re Looking For Are you:
• Passionate about local issues?
• Eager to bring new ideas to the table?
• Ready to commit time and energy to your community? If so, we want to hear from you.
Role and Responsibilities As a councillor, you will:
• Represent residents’ views
• Help develop and implement community projects
• Attend council meetings
• Collaborate with other councillors to address local concerns
Get Involved Your voice matters. We welcome applications from residents aged 18 and over.
Check our website, social media and noticeboards around the parish for vacancies.
Anyone interested in applying should contact the Clerk for information and application form.
clerk@winkfieldparishcouncil.gov.uk, post or in person at the Council Offices, Fernbank Road, Ascot, Berks SL5 8JW
Ruth Lyes, Clerk of the Council clerk@winkfieldparishcouncil.gov.uk 01344 885110
MEET OUR AMAZING TEAM!
We’re thrilled to introduce you to our fantastic team, who work hard to keep everything running smoothly both in the office and out in the community. Here’s a quick guide to who’s who (from left to right):
Lindsay – Finance: Keeping our finances in perfect order, Lindsay ensures we stay on track and within budget.
Chris – Head of Grounds: Chris oversees the upkeep of our beautiful grounds, ensuring they’re safe and welcoming for everyone.
Ruth – Clerk: The backbone of our operations, Ruth oversees the finances and administrative side, supporting councillors and staff in fulfilling their roles.
Felicity – Head of Facilities: Felicity ensures our facilities are top-notch and meet everyone’s needs. She also does a great job of running the Community Café at Ascot Jubilee for children and young people
Sam – Grounds: Sam plays a vital role in maintaining our outdoor spaces and keeping them in pristine condition.
Christina – Business Operations & Planning: Christina handles development control and assists the Clerk with delivery and implementation of council projects . She’s also the contact for bookings in our Community Centres at Carnation Hall and Martins Heron.
Liza – Grounds & Facilities Co-ordinator: A multitasker extraordinaire, Liza supports both the grounds and facilities teams to make sure all details are covered and assists the clerk maintaining safe and quality facilities and supporting delivery of council projects. She’s also your contact for allotments, football, cricket and tennis.
David – Casual Worker: Always ready to lend a hand, David’s flexibility helps fulfil our role seamlessly. Providing valuable support for our Head of Facilities across our Parish, you are likely to see him at our premises if you are hiring them for an event.
Stephen (not in the photo) – Casual Worker : Helps the Council out with our facilities and also supports Felicity in running the Community Café
Our team is based at the office on Fernbank Road, but you’ll also see us out and about managing facilities, overseeing projects, and attending meetings. We’re always happy to say hello, so don’t hesitate to give us a wave if you spot us around! Need to get in touch? You can reach us by phone at 01344 885110 during office hours, Monday to Friday from 9am to 1pm. We look forward to connecting with you!
FOOTBALL-FOR-ALL
New Bracknell SEN team is on the right wavelength
By Cllr Kevin Buchler
The Football-For-All programme, which started around six months ago, is an initiative for individuals with special educational needs. Through the medium of Football, it gives players the opportunity to develop social, communication and teamwork skills and enjoy the mental and physical benefits of regular exercise.
FC Bracknell now has a team and football programme for neurodivergent adults and children and its chairman, Neil Graham, recently took to the airwaves to raise the profile of the team, which has now entered the Berkshire, Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire Inclusive League.
Councillor Buchler says “Winkfield Parish Council is proud to contribute towards this amazing initiative, and it hopes what is being done here can be replicated across the country because it can make such a difference to all age groups. Football-For-All doesn’t only touch the lives of those individuals involved but all their families as well. It is infectious. It makes a real difference. It is so positive and inclusive.”
For more information about the team contact neil.graham0071@gmail.com.
WHAT IS AN ANNUAL PARISH MEETING?
The Annual Parish Meeting is required by law to take place between 1 March and 1 June. The Annual Parish Meeting is for all electors of the Parish. It is not a meeting of the Parish Council. This year the Winkfield Annual Parish Meeting will take place 8th April at Carnation Hall, Winkfield Row. It is a chance for residents to hear about the Parish Council’s work over the past year, ask questions, make suggestions, and discuss local matters. The meeting is not for council decisions but allows electors to voice opinions, with voting on topics decided by those present.
Local groups are also invited to share their work. Anyone can attend, and registered electors may speak and vote.
The meeting will be chaired by the Parish Council Chairman, and minutes will be taken for review at the next meeting. The agenda is published 7 days before, available on the Parish Council website or by request from the office.
As the new District secretary of the National Education Union, I am trying to create a community within the education settings in Bracknell Forest and to foster a strong supportive network for our teaching and support staff. On Friday 7th March we are hosting The Great Bracknell Forest Quiz for anyone who works within education settings within Bracknell Forest.
Speak to your colleagues, form a team and join us for nibbles and prizes!
Sign up by scanning the code and I hope to see you there.
Council Meetings
Winkfield Parish Council works hard to make local government open and accessible. All our meetings start at 7.30pm and are open to public and press. Most meetings are held in the Lounge of Carnation Hall, Chavey Down Road, Winkfield Row, RG42 7PA. Four times a year, council meetings will be held in Heron Hall at Martins Heron & The Warren Community Centre, Whitton Road, Bracknell, RG12 9TZ. Agendas can be viewed on the noticeboard at the Parish Council Office and on our website. Below is the list of our upcoming meetings.
You can now subscribe to our website to receive news updates and information on local issues. Just head to www.winkfieldparishcouncil.gov.uk, enter your email address and click on the 'Subscribe' button.
Follow us on Instagram: winkfieldpc and locksriderecreationground
Find us on Facebook: @WinkfieldParishCouncil Tweet us: @winkfieldpc
To access our website, scan the QR code
USEFUL CONTACTS
Local Planning Applications - www.bracknellforest.gov.uk
If you do not have internet access you are welcome to call in to the Parish Office any weekday morning and we will help you to view online.
Customer Services - T: 01344 352000 or E: customer.services@bracknell-forest.gov.uk Non-emergency OUTSIDE of normal office hours (5pm - 8.30am) - 01344 786500
www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk
We welcome your feedback and contributions to this newsletter. If you would like to promote a local community event, place a special announcement or submit an article, please contact us. Advertise – If you wish to advertise your business, club or group, please contact us to enquire about our current advertising rates.
Deadline – All contributions to the next edition must be received at the Parish Council office by 5th May 2025. Email: info@winkfieldparishcouncil.gov.uk
