Hear ye Hear ye! The Crier is always looking for things to shout about! Feel free to submit your Thoughts, Poems, Photos, Requests or anything you like to thecrier@cookham.com

CBE FOR WENDY CRAIG, MBE FOR JUDITH DIMENT

28 December 2019


Cookham resident Wendy Craig has received a CBE in the New Year's Honours. She became known as a middle-class housewife where she played the role of Ria in the BBC's Not in Front of the Children, which ran for four series from 1967 to 1970,  to ITV's ...And Mother Makes Three, in which she played a single parent.

Wendy Craig also starred in the early 1980s drama series Nanny, which she also created, and in ITV's The Royal, while her guest roles include Death In Paradise.

She receives her CBE for her services to drama and charity, including being president of Berkshire day centre Elizabeth House for more than 25 years before stepping down in 2014.

Also Judith Diment has received an MBE. Judith is a tireless campaigner for Rotary International and has focused her efforts on eradicating polio, which has reduced the disease by 99.9 per cent.  More than 2.5 billion children have been vaccinated a a result of her efforts. she is heading out to Rwanda in 2020 for a celebration of the entire continent of Africa being polio-free, which she called an "incredible achievement". She also helped to launch Berkshire's Riverside Boat Trust in 2007, and help raise £250,000 to build a boat for disabled and disadvantaged people. Judith is also involved with the Wheelpower charity, which provides specialist wheelchairs for disabled people in the UK, and the Thames Valley Hospice. She has also looked after the PR for the Stanley Spencer Gallery. 


PFC ETHIOPIA SWIM

27 December 2019


From a Cookham charity organiser

Fundraising can be challenging at times, but we have just had some wonderful news. More than 3 years after our son won a competition in the Maidenhead Advertiser to organise a swim disco for 100 friends in aid of Gende Tesfa School and HT, the newspaper has generously offered us to do the same again. We will be having an exclusive PFC Ethiopia swim disco at Windsor swimming pool for up to 150 children and parents on Sunday, February 2nd. Please pop the date in your diaries. Special thanks to all of the PFC Ethiopia Ambassadors who have offered to help on the day. More information to follow in the New Year:

Click here to see the article in the Maidenhead Advertiser.


STANLEY SPENCER ENCOUNTERS A CHRISTMAS TURKEY

24 December 2019


At a ceremony at the Stanley Spencer Gallery, nine-year old Ethan Olikara from Claires Court Junior Boys was presented with a prize for his design for a Christmas card. The picture of Stanley Spencer’s encounter with a Christmas turkey will feature among the Gallery’s Christmas cards that go on sale next year.


BLOSSOMS ALL YEAR WITH SHRUBS

19 December 2019


Adrian Doble has given us Blossom all year with shrubs – only use open-flowered varieties , which will offer blooms for bees over the whole year.

Month

 

Important shrubs

Super shrubs

January

Salix caprea pendula

Clematis cirrhosa (Winter)

February

Erica Darleyensis  (Winter heather)

March

Daphne odora aureomarginata

April

Ribes sanguineum

May

Chaenomeles japonica,

Weigelia

Rosmarinus officinalis

Philadelphus delavayi

Chaenomeles japonica

June

Cotoneaster simonsii

Erica darleyensis (Summer heather)

Ceanothus  burkwoodii

Pyracantha watereri

July

Rosa canis

Lonicera Americana (Summer honeysuckle)

Syringa vulgaris

Rosa canis

August

Lavendula hidcote

Potentilla fruticosa

September

Buddelia davidii

October

Salvia fulgens

Hebe “E A Bowles”

November

Abelia grandiflora

Abelia-Grandiflora

December

Mahonia japonica

Lonicera fragrantissima (Winter honeysuckle)

 

Other shrubs can be added, particularly open-flowered garden roses.

 


THANK YOU FROM THAMES HOSPICE

4 December 2019


From Thames Hospice

The Cookhams' Fundraising Group would like to thankall those who supported the hospice this year. It has meant that we were able to raise just under £8,000 in 2019, a similar amount to that we achieved in 2018.

I'm sure you know that the hospice has a huge task ahead, having to raise the remaining funds it needs to complete the new building, whilst continuing to provide excellent care in so many ways, so your continued support is extremely important to us. The very good news is that 45% of the remaining £3 million needed has been pledged or given by a wide variety of organisations and generous individuals, which is very heartening. However, £1.6m needs to be found in order to complete the project. The new hospice will be the best in the country, leading the field in palliative care. Click here to show you a quick view (45 seconds) of the new building

Our 2020 fundraising programme will continue to offer our supporters a mix of well-established and new events and we look forward to giving you an enjoyable time as well as raising money for this worthwhile cause. We also want to take this opportunity to thank Anthea Webb, our retiring Acting Chairman of this Fundraising Group, for her considerable efforts over many years. She has proved a tower of strength and we now look forward to seeing her sit back, relax and enjoy our events in the future.  

The Committee wish you a very happy Christmas and a 2020 that is full of laughter, joy and “living life to the full”.


THE 400 CLINIC OPENS

2 December 2019


The 400 Clinic opens for business today offering chiropractic facilities and sports massage. It is based at  Station House next to the station. If you are interested in making an appointment cal 01628 521085


NOAH'S ARK CLOSES

29 November 2019


After 40 years it has been decided to close Noah's Ark that runs in Cookham Dean Village Hall. It seems parents are now looking for longer periods that Noah's Ark was offering. 

Iris who ran Noah's Ark says "I miss being with the children each day but I am so grateful for my happy memories and the many friends I have made over the years"/


BOROUGH LOCAL PLAN MEETING

26 November 2019


Cookham residents made a great effort to attend the Borough Local Plan meeting last night in Moor Hall about the plan to build 270 dwellings in Cookham. Mike Copland, who is head of WildCookham gave a very some extremely good reasons, strongly put, on the environmental reasons that should be considered.

Mike Coplan Puts forward the Environmental Problems 

Councillor Coppinger attended and also interim Head of Planning James Carpenter was also there.


COOKHAM GETS WILDER

26 November 2019


100 gardens are now involved in the WildCookham Wild About Gardens scheme.  Launched last year with just under 50 gardens participating, we doubled up to 100 gardens in 2019.  This year's award winners were celebrated at a WildCookham event last Friday, joined by more than 80 residents who also heard National Trust Ranger Dom Lethbridge talk about the Trust's plans for the Cookham Commons.  Pam Campin, one of the organisers, congratulated the Gold, Silver and Bronze winners stressing each garden can make a valuable contribution to our local biodiversity.  The Awards will continue next year with the aim of connecting many more gardens into the local wild network.

The Cookham Awards scheme was extended across Maidenhead this year with 150+ gardens involved across the Borough.


WAS THAT AN ALPACA?

24 November 2019


ITV's This Morning visited Copas Turkeys at the farm for a live broadcast with Alice Beer last  Friday 22 November.

The Copas alpacas that protect the turkeys have been quite the stars also with appearances in The Times newspaper, Express Online, Metro Online, The Argus and Evening Express.

According to the BBC, Tom Copas, the owner of the family business, came up with the idea of alpacas in 2015 after a series of fox attacks resulted in hundreds of birds being killed at the farm.

In the photo Alice Beer (left) can be seen talking to Verity Copas with the alpacas in the background and a lot of turkeys just behind them.


GOODBYE HOOKY

16 November 2019


From the 1st Cookham (David Livingstone) Cub Pack) 

It is with sadness that I have to tell you that Mark Hook died yesterday 15 November 2019.

Mark was born into a Scouting family. His mother was Akela for the local Cub Pack and his father the Scout leader in South East London.

Not as privileged as we are today, the family combined troop camps into their family holiday. This was something Mark bought into, always supporting the Scout leaders at 1st Cookham’s annual camp until illness prevented him from attending in 2019.

For 1st Cookham, though, Mark will be remembered most for his commitment the Cub packs over more than three decades. For many years he was Assistant Cub Scout Leader for both the Cookham packs before becoming Akela for the David Livingstone pack.

Mark held a Green Field nights away permit but most loved to run “Formosa General Hospital”, in a large tent during Cub Camp – and to moan about what he thought others were doing incorrectly!

Mark faced many adversities in life, not least of which was the loss of his left arm below the elbow, but he faced them with determination and cheerfulness. He loved to show how his stump looked like the face of ET.

Mark will be missed by the 1st Cookham family.

In 2002 Timmy Mallett painted a portrait of Mark Hook 

Mark Hook        

Hooky! Rambo! Lofty!  These are some of Mark's nicknames. He lost his left forearm in an horrific car accident on the M40, two years ago. The hook is model number 4 and is operated by cable and shoulder straps.

Mark is the bars manager at the Chartered Institute of Marketing in Moor Hall, by far Cookham's biggest employer with around 140 full time staff.  He's been there since 1987, and lived on site for many years. "I can still roll a barrel, pull a pint, cook, dress, garden and pitch a tent!" Mark trained as a horticulturist and worked at the Royal Parks and Eton college; gardening is still a big interest for him as is St Johns, WAMSAD, Crisis, and scouting. Mark's been involved with Cookham scouts for 20 years and you'll see him at the village fete, the regatta and fireworks display. "I like the mixed part of the local community. People are curious about my hook. I've accepted being disabled, but I can't change a light bulb anymore and I have to prioritise now. But I can work, continue my social life and other community interests".

Mark is a real inspiration to me and proof that life is for living.


THE DEFINITIVE RAT PACK A GREAT SUCCESS

9 November 2019


The Definitive Rat Pack for the fantastic performance gave a fantastic performance at the Taplow Court Hotel last night, 8 November. A big thank should be made to all the staff and volunteers at Elizabeth House and the Cookham Bridge Rotary Club for organising such a great evening last night.

The Definitive Rat Pack can be seen again at Cadogan Hall on 7th December!


25th TWINNING ANNIVERSARY

1 November 2019


Last weekend was the 25th anniversary of the Cookham Twinning link with St Benoit in France. A group of Cookhamites went over to meet up with our French friends.


SWAN UPPING COMES TO COOKHAM

29 October 2019


The Tate have loaned  the masterpiece Swan Upping at Cookham to the Stanley Spencer Gallery from Nov 7 2019 – March 22nd 2020, and as the focal point of the exhibition it will hang beside many other Spencer works relating to the river including a little seen study (now in private hands).


RAILWAY CLOCK WORKS AGAIN

25 October 2019


Cookham residents and commuters will be very glad to see that the Millennium Clock is now working again after a few years of it sticking at the same time. It seemed that the clock could not be easily repaired originally as the clock had to be accessed from the upper story of the building to which it is attached. 

The clock was originally put up in 2000 by the Parish Council to celebrate the new millennium. It is decorated with swans as a reminder of the Thames.


PENNIES FROM HEAVEN

12 October 2019


Since the introduction of the ‘Pennies for Plastic’ scheme, Countrystore has donated £5,579.95 to local schools and nurseries in Cookham, as well as massively reducing the number of single use plastic carrier bags.

 

Their latest donation of £2,000 to Cookham Dean Primary School will help them kit out their new library.

 

Help them reduce this plastic consumption even more by using their Jute Bags or re-usable ‘Bags for Life’.

 

If you’re a Cookham School wishing to benefit from this continuing scheme, please get in touch with Countrystore at: admin@cstore.co.uk


MASSIVE PROJECT TO SUPPORT BERKSHIRE'S WILDLIFE

5 October 2019


WildCookham's meeting next Wednesday (9th October) brings news of a large-scale initiative to create a better world for our local wildlife. Hilary Phillips, BBOWT’s Living Landscapes Manager for Berkshire, will give an overview of the Wildlife Trust's Living Landscapes, looking at the overall objectives of these schemes before focusing on the planned Living Landscape in East Berkshire, of which Cookham would be a part.

Full details of the meeting at Lea Barn, Winter Hill, Cookham, and registration are on our Meetup site here.

To adapt to climate change, the UK’s wildlife will need to move along ‘climate corridors’ up and down the country, or to shadier slopes or cooler valleys. Wildlife has done it all before, after the last ice age, but this time the change is faster and there are new obstacles to surmount: cities, motorways and expanses of hostile countryside.

If we don’t give our wildlife room to thrive and adapt, a collapse in biodiversity is inevitable. In the face of climate change it is essential that we link areas of good habitat for wildlife at a speed and on a scale that would once have felt impossible. Working closely with community groups, businesses, land managers and local authorities, The Wildlife Trusts play a leading role in developing landscape-scale projects around the UK.

BBOWT now has three Living Landscape schemes that are jewels of the countryside in their own right.  Hilary will explain how volunteer work parties maintain these habitats and carry out regular surveys; and how working with local landowners and farmers can improve the links between habitats on their land and the nature reserves. These links include hedgerows, woodland, ponds and streams, which provide vital ‘corridors’ for wildlife to move across the Living Landscape.

Register for the meeting, and get full details, here.  Tea and coffee will be provided. This is a free event, but as ever a £3 donation per attendee is suggested.

And please pass on this email to anyone who you think might be interested.


SAVE THE ARK

4 October 2019


Noah’s Ark pre-school is facing closure due to low attendance numbers and a shortage of funds to bridge the gap during this time.

 

It has delivered happy memories to children in Cookham Dean Village Hall since 1975. Operating from 8.30-1 during RBWM term times and run by an exceptionally experienced team, who often recall our present children's parents as preschoolers, Noah’s Ark is a very special childcare setting.

 

Low birth rates and a challenging economic climate mean we no longer enjoy the number of children we have in previous years. This term, we have less than ten children registered. As part of our very special community in Cookham Dean, we need your help to Save the Ark! Fundraising will enable us to keep running while we recruit more children to enjoy our idyllic setting daily. 

 

To donate to Noah's Ark, please visit https://justgiving.com/campaign/s

 


NOAH'S ARK MAY HAVE TO CLOSE

30 September 2019


From Noah's Ark

 

We are a traditional village pre-school in Cookham Dean for up to 24 children between 2½ and 5 years old.

We aim to help every child flourish and fulfil their own potential – to be confident, sociable and happy.

 

Open during RBWM term times 8.30am-1pm, we follow the Early Years Foundation Stage Curriculum. We provide a safe, caring and supportive environment in which we offer a nurturing and fun learning experience. Our team of highly qualified staff have years of experience in pre-school and school environments (some of them even taught our current children's parents!) so individual care and attention is guaranteed. ​As well as offering a range of creative and stimulating activities indoors, we have a secure outside play area and regularly take the children on country walks and across to the orchard for games and bug hunts. We're very fortunate to be adjacent National Trust land so have easy access to beautiful commons. 

 

If you are interested or have any ideas to help us contact 485708 (9am - 1pm)

 


TOM'S D-I-Y AND CAR PARTS ARE CLOSING

27 September 2019


Tom’s DIY and Car Parts will be closing this Saturday after forty years. Richard who has been helping the people of Cookham over all those years will be taking a well deserved retirement.  Originally Car Parts was set up and next door was Seconds Out which moved down to Cookham Village and then Tom's D-I-Y was set up. When they set up they found a lot of old car parts in the cellar and discovered that they were worth a few bob on eBay. You can grab a last-minute bargain with up to 50% off so make the most of it. The shop will be very much missed by many Cookham residents, Richard would even help change the odd windscreen wiper or car light bulb. He will be missed.


AWARD FOR COPAS TURKEYS

22 September 2019


The British Poultry Awards took place on the night of 20th September and Copas Traditional Turkeys won the prestigious Best Turkey Product: Seasonal Award for Free Range Whole Turkey. It's a massive achievement for the team at the farm and shows that all the care and attention they give the birds really does pay off.


WILDING THE COMMONS

22 September 2019


This is very exciting news! You may have noticed and admired the stunning wild flower patches around Wooburn Green this year. We have BIG plans to do the same around Cookham - and we need your help! If you'd like to get an enormous feel-good feeling next summer when the flowers are in full bloom, pop along to help us prepare the ground on October 6th. If you have a cordless scarifier or strimmer, please bring it along. Garden forks and rakes will be helpful as well. To sign up and get all the details, here's the link:
https://www.meetup.com/WildCookham/events/264722130/


TALK ON FOUR ACRE WOOD

19 September 2019


Great evening with local author/broadcaster Prof Richard Fortey last week, talking about the four-acre wood he bought a few years back and now the subject of his fascinating book The Wood for the Trees.  More than 100 attended for this joint WildCookham/Wild Maidenhead meeting (our biggest meeting to date) with the chance to buy signed copies of Richard's book.  Also great to have Cookham's Little Bookshop there with their excellent range of natural history books. Next meeting looks at BBOWT's plans for an East Berkshire Living Landscape:  9th October - see our Meetup site (www.meetup.com/WildCookham/)



TV ROSS KEMP SUPPORTS NEW HOSPICE

19 September 2019


We were absolutely thrilled to welcome award-winning documentary maker, actor and author Ross Kemp to our new hospice site this week. Ross delighted patients and families (as well as staff!) during his visit to our existing Hospice in Windsor, before taking a tour of the new hospice under construction by Bray Lake.

Ross is supporting our Raise the Roof appeal to raise the final £3million needed to complete the building of our new hospice. Watch the video below to hear why your support is so important.

https://www.raisetheroof2020.org.uk/week-34/


RESTORE HISTORIC VIEW FROM WINTER HILL

11 September 2019


National Trust rangers for Maidenhead and Cookham Commons are currently planning a project to restore priority habitat and the historic view from Winter Hill. The work will be phased over five years to allow wildlife time to adjust to the change in habitat. This is a great opportunity for Maidenhead and Cookham to contribute towards the NT’s Land, Outdoors and Nature target of creating/restoring 25,000ha of priority habitat by 2025.

We are blessed with a scarce and declining habitat in Cookham.  The Chilterns offer one of the few remaining areas of chalk grasslands in the country.  But everywhere, this specialist environment is under duress, including in our village.  The way we farm has changed - the use of intensive fertilizers enriches the composition of the soil and livestock grazing practices have moved on, both of which have a detrimental effect on this dwindling habitat. 

Cookham villagers were a generous (and foresighted?) lot back in the 1930s because the 46 acres of water meadows and chalk grassland, from Cock Marsh to Winter Hill were purchased by the village and donated to The National Trust in 1934.  For donkey’s years this area has been grazed.  Just the right amount of nibbling manages the plant content, allowing species that tolerate the poor chalky soil to flourish - even this lime rich earth will be taken over by scrub if it is not managed correctly.  From 1272 the land has been grazed and when Cookham had a monastery, sheep were an important income.  Fleeces and animals were transported down to Marlow via The Wool Way that ran along the top of Winter Hill and down through the woods (parts of this can still be seen today).  Nowadays, Commoners still have grazing rights over some areas and so the cows that appear every Spring on Cock Marsh, are working hard to maintain this Site of Special Scientific Interest.

Over the years, the Winter Hill area has not fared so well however.  Even as recently as the 1960/70s there was an open view across to our neighbours on the other side of the river, but today the hillside is largely covered with self-seeded trees, scrub and the odd chicken.  The National Trust are soon to start works to tackle this – in an effort to restore at least some of the view and chalk grassland, improve the biodiversity and future proof the area against disease like ash dieback (Hymenoscyphus fraxineus).  From the footpath at the corner of the “old” car park to the gate across the sheep drove this area has been split into 5 compartments, to be approached in slightly different ways.

Sections one and three will be clear felled – meaning they will take as many of the trees out as possible.  By doing this they hope to not only restore the view but enable the chalk grassland species to once again take a hold.  Section two will be thinned – some of the significant trees will be left and they will install more bird and bat boxes. Compartments four and five will be selectively felled.  Many of the trees are self-seeded ash trees and quite a few are showing signs of ash dieback, so these trees will be a focus for the felling.  Some will be replaced with disease resistant varieties and other native species, of local importance.  New habitats such as hazel coppice and hedgerows will be introduced. You might think that it will be a bit untidy – dead wood and some felled timber will be left, and some stumps won’t necessarily be ground out, as these are also an important habitat for insects and birds.

The long game is to reinstating areas of priority chalk grassland habitat, whilst future proofing the site against the effects of a catastrophic outbreak of ash dieback and ensuring that this pocket of land is as packed with native species as possible. 

The aim is that “Winter Hill will be a mosaic of chalk grassland, resilient woodland and woodland edge with stunning views across the Thames Valley. This combination of important habitats will be home to a plethora of wildlife. It will be a beloved spot for the local community and our visitors, whether it’s just a love for the view or a connection with nature.”

Comments are welcomed by the National Trust. If you would like to comment, please email: maidenheadandcookham@nationaltrust.org.uk


TV STARS SUPPORT CAMPAIGN FOR NEW HOSPICE

4 September 2019


HOSPICE LAUNCHES ITS LARGEST FUNDRAISING APPEAL EVER

 

Thames Hospice today announced the launch of ‘RAISE THE ROOF’, the most ambitious public fundraising appeal in the charity’s 30-year history, to help raise the final £3million urgently needed to complete the build of a new state-of-the-art hospice for the community. With up to ten families a day not getting the hospice care they need, Thames Hospice desperately needs to expand the care it can provide for local families with the new hospice.

 

To raise awareness and the final £3 million needed to complete the new hospice, the charity will launch its ‘RAISE THE ROOF’ appeal in the heart of its community with a day of celebrations at its Maidenhead store on the High Street, on 14 September 2019 from 11.00am. Shoppers will have the opportunity to get autographs and selfies (for a donation!) with TV superstar Ross Kemp, as well as enjoy lots of entertainment and refreshments throughout the day.

 

Debbie Raven, Thames Hospice Chief Executive, said: “We are absolutely thrilled to have the support of Ross Kemp, one of our greatest TV stars. Ross recently spent time with patients and staff at our Hospice on Hatch Lane to learn more about our work and we were delighted to show him around the new hospice by Bray Lake.

 

“We are all so excited that Ross, together with Deputy Mayor Gary Muir, will be joining us in Maidenhead to celebrate and help spread the word about our appeal to raise the final £3 million we need to complete your new hospice.

 

“Please come and support us and let’s Raise the Roof together!”

 

The Maidenhead celebration is just one of a series of exciting roadshow events taking place between 7 – 14 September 2019. The charity is delighted to have further support from other TV stars throughout the week - much-loved actress and Thames Hospice Ambassador Sue Holderness will delight shoppers in both Windsor (7 September) and Dedworth (12 September), whilst actor and author Tim Brooke-Taylor will launch the campaign in Wokingham (14 September). Thames Hospice also has support from Dani Harmer, one of the biggest stars of children's television, in Bracknell (11 September).

 

Thames Hospice is one of the busiest independent hospices in the UK, but is no longer able to keep up with the increasing number of people who desperately need the charity’s services. Every day the Inpatient Unit and Community Services are full and each day there will be up to ten people left at home or in a hospital bed when it is not what they want or need. The current situation will only get worse as the local population continues to grow and age. The Hospice’s much-loved existing building in Windsor has been added to, altered and expanded and cannot be adapted any further to meet the growing demand.

 

To put that right, construction started at the beginning of this year on a new £22 million state-of-the-art hospice which will provide urgent hospice care and support to even more local families now, and for generations to come. Set in eight stunning acres by Bray Lake, the new hospice will include 28 private inpatient rooms all with their own bathrooms and space for families to stay overnight. Thames Hospice will be able to double its day services provision in a dedicated Day Therapy Centre, and a brand new education centre and library which will allow the charity to support community healthcare professionals involved in end-of-life care as well as carers.

 

Lisa Parris-Cambridge, a patient who is currently accessing the services at Thames Hospice, said: “Thames Hospice has been there for me and my girls. They provide the care, counselling and support that make my diagnosis better to deal with.  I can’t imagine what life would be like for others in the same situation left without Thames Hospice’s support.”

 

To find out how you can support Thames Hospice Raise the Roof appeal and for more information about our roadshows, please visit www.raisetheroof2020.org.uk

 

Text RAISE to 70970 to give £5 for a roof rafter

Text RAISE to 70191 to give £10 for ten bricks


NEW FOOD AND DRINK IN COOKHAM

31 August 2019


Two new Food and Drink places are soon coming to Cookham. There is Smiles, a fish and chip shop,  in the Parade which is planned to open on 11 September 2019. Smiles already have a very successful shop in the Parade in Bourne End. They are replacing My Cod, so Fish and Chips will be back on the menu again.

Mr Cooper's Coffee House is soon to open in Cookham High Street replacing Cutsies' Cup Cakes. They are next door to the Teapot, so tea and coffee for all. You may have seen the building has now turned pink and blue, which some people love while others are not so keen! Mr Cooper's will be offering things such as toasted sandwiches, real fruit smoothies, pink hot chocolate and even a lavender Latte.


WINTER HILL - BACK TO THE FUTURE

23 August 2019


           
 
Many of you will be aware there have, for some time, been plans to re-open the viewpoint at Winter Hill in Cookham Dean. These plans are beginning to progress and the National Trust has told us about them with a request to pass on information to our supporters.

Broadly speaking the aim is to restore the land to what it was before much of the vegetation became overgrown which, in turn, also restricted the view from Winter Hill. The map below shows what is planned.
 
The area from opposite the top of Startins Lane to Gibraltar Lane, and a smaller area beyond Gibraltar Lane towards Cockmarsh, will be impacted.  It has been split into five compartments which will either be clear felled, selectively felled or thinned.  Some compartments will be re-planted with disease resistant and/or locally significant species.  The ultimate objective is to restore the chalk grassland in two compartments, to increase the biodiversity across all five, and to future proof the whole area against the impacts of Ash tree die back.

As the Trust puts it, the aim is that “Winter Hill will be a mosaic of chalk grassland, resilient woodland and woodland edge with stunning views across the Thames Valley. This combination of important habitats will be home to a plethora of wildlife. It will be a beloved spot for the local community and our visitors, whether it’s just a love for the view or a connection with nature.”

Our view at WildCookham is that this will be a good move, bringing back the mix of habitats and vegetation which existed before and encouraging local biodiversity. The work will be done at a time of the year to minimise disruption to our wildlife.

If you have any questions about this let us know by emailing wildcookham@gmail.com and we can relay comments to the local National Trust ranger team at Cliveden.


DRAGONFLY AND DAMSELFLY IDENTIFICATION

29 July 2019


The National Trust is hosting a special session in Cookham (provisionally fixed for 6th August) providing Dragonfly and Damselfly identification and survey training and we'd like to hear from anyone who is interested.  You would need some basic knowledge for this to be of value - plus interest in helping with on-going survey work in the area.  The session (on Widbrook Common) will be led by an expert who is doing a number of these sessions across the region for the Trust.
With apologies for the short notice - which means getting back to Brian Clews (brian.clews@btconnect.com and 07860 290115) as quickly as possible if you are interested.


SWAN UPPING

17 July 2019


Swan Upping was back in Cookham yesterday 16 July, the annual practice of catching the swans on the River Thames and marking them to indicate ownership by the Crown or a corporation.

Click here to see the video

With thanks to 'Neeta Skeeter'


DEADLINE FOR WILD ABOUT GARDEN AWARDS APPROACHES

16 July 2019


The closing date for the Wild About Gardens Awards is Wednesday 31st July.

If you have already entered your garden - well done.  If not please support our wildlife by adding simple features to your garden - only four are needed for an Award.  You can enter through our website: www.wildcookham.org.uk or collect an  entry form from The Stationery Depot, 23 Station Road, Cookham Rise.


Tip of the Week:  is about feeding birds.  Keep on topping up the feeders all through the summer – baby birds have big appetites.  Also don't panic if some of our plants are nibbled by caterpillars - the birds will feast on the caterpillars given half a chance!

And for further inspiration take a look at last Friday’s Gardeners' World where Monty Don and team told us about some great things we can do to encourage our wildlife.  It also demonstrated just how many people are responding to the urgent call to help bring our wildlife back before it's too late.  We can all help.


NEW BOOK NEWS

10 July 2019


Two books from local actor and author, Richard James, are now available to buy at The Little Bookshop in Cookham High Street. The Head In The Ice and The Devil In The Dock are the first two novels in a series of Victorian detective stories following Inspector George Bowman of Scotland Yard during the year of 1892. Get your copy in store or find out more at www.bowmanoftheyard.co.uk !


 


IT'S EASY TO WELCOME WILDLIFE INTO YOUR GARDEN

2 July 2019


There are still four weeks left to join people across Cookham to make our gardens more friendly for Wildlife.  Do join us!

It doesn’t mean filling your garden with nettles!  We have 24 easy ideas including planting nectar-rich flowers, providing bug hotels and bird baths, creating all-year-round food - all of which will make a huge difference.

Last year 50 people entered their gardens to recognise their efforts through our award scheme. You only need four features to gain an award. In 2019 we would like to see 150 gardens get involved, and as one of our supporters, we would love you to take part.

Just pick up the list of recommended garden features from the Stationery Depot or find the on-line version at www.wildcookham.org.uk. The whole form is quick and easy to complete and will only take a couple of minutes.

Our closing date for entries is the 31 July and we are happy to answer any queries through the email: Cookhamwaga@gmail.com

 

Tip for early July - keep your poppies and let them seed - good for bees and birds.


GOLD WINNERS' GARDENS OPEN

25 June 2019


Five Gold winners in last year's Wild About Gardens Awards in Cookham are giving us a chance to see some of their great ideas.  Their gardens are open this coming Sunday morning (30th June).

 

Have you sign up yet for the 2019 Wild About Gardens Awards?  There's still a month to go (deadline 31st July) and the open gardens this weekend should be a great incentive to get involved!

Three gardens are open from 10am and two from 11.30am.  They all close at 1pm - allowing you also to visit the Open Gardens in Alleyns Lane, Cookham Dean (in aid of Alexander Devine Children’s Hospice) during the afternoon.

The gardens, also marked on the map below, are:

10am to 1pm
Hill Cottage, School Lane, Cookham Dean SL69PQ 
3 Royal Cottages, Cookham Dean  (close to the Sanctum)
Meadow Croft, Sterlings Field, Church Road SL69PQ
 
 11.30 to 1pm
Sterlings Lodge, Sterlings Field, Church Road, SL69PG
Vine Cottage, Dean Lane, Cookham Dean (parking possible in the Chequers car park opposite)

The owners will be there to talk about their garden and the ideas they have put into practice.  There will also be refreshments at Hill Cottage in aid of WildCookham and Clink, a charity helping prisoners and ex-prisoners with gardening.

If you are considering entering for this year's Awards, this is the perfect opportunity to get some ideas!  See you there.


 


HEATHROW EXPANSION CONSULTATION

22 June 2019


Heathrow wants to build its new third runway over the M25 with a tunnel proposed to run underneath. Also rivers will need to be diverted to allow for the new runway. Leaflets have been distributed to Cookhamites about the third statutory consultation on the airport consultation which lasts from 18 June - 13 September 2019 at 11.15am. Documents are available to be reviewed at Maidenhead Library and there will be a consultation event at Nicholsons Shopping Centre in Maidenhead on 6 July from 10am - 4pm. You can find out more about the consultation .https://www.heathrowconsultation.com where you can also find out about how to give feedback.

LONDON TO BRIGHTON

18 June 2019


On Sunday Cookhamite Irene Killinback joined the London to Brighton bike run. They set off from Clapham Common on Sunday 16 June and finished on Brighton Beach the same afternoon. They followed a beautiful route through the Surrey and Sussex countryside. London to Brighton is for everyone! Young or old, beginner or experienced. Well done Irene.

 

 


A SCOUT FAIR MENAGERIE

16 June 2019


The Annual Scout Fair which was held yesterday was again a great success. There were some really adorable dogs in the dog competition also other animals including pigs and goats. The odd shower did not affect the fun of the fair.

Mylo came in third in the agility

 


WANTED - NEW TRUSTEE FOR ELIZABETH HOUSE

11 June 2019


Elizabeth House will be having its 2019 AGM on 31 July.

Glenn Maybury is to step down at its annual general meeting in July, after eight years dedicated service to Elizabeth House. A trustee in 2011 and Chairman 2014–2017, he has served with great distinction.

 

For the past five years, honorary secretary Stephanie Diggon has worked tirelessly and with great commitment She will retire also as a trustee at the same time. Both Glenn and Steph will receive honorary life membership on their retirement.

 

Jenny Elton, an Elizabeth House volunteer for last 12 years will take over as honorary secretary, if elected by the membership at the AGM.

 

Glenn’s retirement creates an opportunity for a new trustee at Elizabeth House. Should anyone in the Cookham community wish to be considered as a trustee, please email a resume to the current chair, Chris Harris at chris.harris10@btinternet.com by mid July. No specific qualifications and expertise are required (although someone with a medical background would be welcome), other than an enthusiastic team player with an interest and desire to add value to the management and leadership of Cookham’s Centre for independent senior citizens.


COOKHAM WANDERERS IN SWITZERLAND

10 June 2019


This last weekend the Cookham Wanderers went on tour to Morzine, Switzerland, Hope they won!


VISIT TO TIMOTHLEE GARDEN, PINKNEYS GREEN

8 June 2019


From Wild Cookham

If you are looking for ideas for your wild garden, or just fancy a visit to a stunning local garden, then head along to St Timothee Garden in Pinkneys Green next weekend 14/15 JuneE 2019  Bordering Pinkneys Green Common the garden has been developed over more than a decade to create a stunning English Garden, designed for year round colour and interest and to provide a home, food, water and shelter for wildlife.

Sarah Pajwani opens the garden in aid of the National Garden Scheme and all proceeds go to the NHS's group of Nursing and caring Charities.  It's a delightful garden in a lovely setting - and there's a great tea available too!

The garden is open on Friday 14th from 11am to 4pm and on Saturday 15th from 2 to 5pm.  Entrance is £4.50 per person.

St Timothee is on Darlings Lane, Pinkneys Green, Maidenhead SL6 6PA.

https://www.ngs.org.uk/find-a-garden/garden/33095/


JOIN TWINNING FOR VISIT TO ST BENOIT

5 June 2019


We’re looking forward to visiting our friends in St Benoit in October (26th-29th). Some members have already confirmed that they are coming, and others that they can’t make it this year, but there’s room for more, Please give me a call if you’d like more information (Keith - 01628 532279).  Everyone is very welcome to join us, you will be guaranteed a wonderful time. You do not need to speak French even and you stay with the French in their homes.  

Our hosts have arranged a fascinating itinerary 

Saturday 26 October – reception

Sunday 27 October – Sunday lunch in Vouillé , around 20 kms from Poitiers

Monday 28 October – visit to The Chateau and gardens of Villandry and the Abbaye Royale de Fontevraud, where Henry II, his wife, Eleanor of Aquitaine and son King Richard the Lionheart are buried. In the evening a dinner with a musical group in St. Benoit.

Here are some transport options

•          Train: Eurostar St Pancras to Paris (Gare du Nord) then Paris Montparnasse to Poitiers - tickets available 3-4 months in advance

•          Air: direct flights (Ryanair) from Stansted to Poitiers Friday 25 October dep STN at 14:05 arr PIS at 16:35.  Return Tuesday 29 October dep PIS at 11:00 arr STN at 11:30.

Current price (return) £87.30 (excluding baggage etc)

•          Drive options

•          Eurostar: Drive Calais to Poitiers – 624 km 6 hours 8 mins 

•          Sea: Britanny Ferries from Portsmouth to St Malo overnight

Friday 25 October dep Portsmouth 20:15 arr St Malo Saturday 26 October 08:15 - current price £175.  Drive St Malo to Poitiers 402km 4 hours

Return Tuesday 29 October dep St Malo 20:30 arr Portsmouth Wednesday 07:45 -current price £130

•          Other routes Britanny Ferries from Portsmouth to Caen daily

Return Tuesday 29 October dep Caen 16:30 arr Portsmouth 21:15 / dep Caen 23:00 arr Portsmouth 06:45 – current price £115.  Drive Poitiers to Caen 3hours 30 mins

 

For those of you that are coming, it would be helpful if you could let me know your chosen transport option, so that I can let our hosts know. We also plan to meet for an informal (optional)  lunch at the King’s Arms on Saturday 28th September to meet before we go.


THE HEAD IN THE ICE

26 May 2019


Local actor and writer Richard James is to launch his first novel 'The Head In The Ice' at the Little Bookshop, Cookham High Street.

 
It's the first in a series following Inspector George Bowman on various investigations in Victorian London while dealing with the death of his wife - a death for which he holds himself responsible. It's been described as 'a genuinely impressive debut' and 'a masterful new Victorian mystery series'.
 
Richard will be chatting about the book series and signing copies on Saturday 8th June from 2pm.

 


NEW EXHIBITION AT ELIZABETH HOUSE GALLERY

25 May 2019


Jacqueline Ward and Val Leung- New Exhibition from Monday 3rd June in our Gallery.

Jacqueline - A passion for art history,  textiles, travel, architecture, music and photography have inspired me to explore, create and compose a variety of works involving the development of  colour using many techniques.   Restoration of our Cambridgeshire windmill in Wicken continues to be a source of inspiration for many images; its engineering patterns and construction  fuels further research on mechanical design. 

Working mainly in acrylics on canvas with oil pastels in  rich exuberant colours, there is a realistic yet abstracted presence in the paintings. Strong thematic ideas which are both expressive and subtle dominate throughout. 

‘ I aim to enhance engagement with the audience drawing on shared experiences, to delight and inspire’

Val Leung - an active exhibitor for Windsor Artist Collective  www.windsor-artists.org and  on Facebook, Maidenhead Painting Club, Val  has an extensive background in textiles and design. Working on large canvases in acrylic and pastels, Val explores a  variety  animal and travel themes which give her inspiration.  A vivid use of mark making ensures that her works are dynamic and engaging to the viewer. 

Our Gallery is open for viewing 10am-12noon and 1pm-3pm Monday to Friday. The artists may decide to have a weekend opening during their exhibition.


FESTIVAL PHOTO WINNERS ANNOUNCED AT ODNEY CLUB AWARDS RECEPTION

19 May 2019


We had a great response to Wild About Cookham, our joint WildCookham/Cookham Festival photography competition.  More than 120 photos were submitted, from which our panel of judges selected 50 to exhibit during the Festival.  If you're quick you have till 5pm today (Sunday 18th May) to see them in the Sir Bernard Miller Centre at Cookham's Odney Club in Odney Lane.

Four winners were announced at a reception at the Odney Club on Friday:  Sarah Luton (Adult Category) , William Garrett (Junior), Gill Harper (Smartphone) and, in a special extra 'judges prize' for best animal photo, Susan Lee-Tanner.  William went away with a camera donated by Canon, Sarah is £100 better off and Gill and Susan each had a cheque for £50.

The event was possible thanks to the sponsorship of global recruitment company Renaissance Leadership whose CEO (and Cookham resident) Tony Willis presented the prizes.  Big thanks also to Richard Campin and Kira Holland who ran the whole process and to our judges - pro photographers Patrick Blake and Mick Vogel, Cookham Festival's creative head Maureen Smith and Brian Clews for Wild Cookham.  Of course, we could not have had the exhibition or the Awards event without the generous support of the John Lewis Partnership team at the Odney Club.  And, most of all, we thank the many people who submitted their photos of Cookham's wildlife and landscape.

We had a total of more than 1600 votes cast to select the winners and there has been universal praise for the quality of the photos.  They also demonstrate clearly the wonderful wildlife and natural habitats we have in the Cookhams - a powerful reminder of the efforts we all need to make to save and enhance them for the future.

Look out for our 2020 Calendar
There will now be a further selection of photos to appear in the 2020 WildCookham calendar which is due out later in the summer.  So watch out for this.

The photos show the four winners, with Richard Campin (left) and Tony Willis - top row Sarah Luton and Gill Harper; bottom row William Garrett and Susan Lee-Tanner.


BRIDGING THE GAP

10 May 2019


Such fun and excitement is a-happening in Cookham involving the very young from Cookham Montessori Nursery and their older ‘buddies’ at Queen’s award-winning Elizabeth House adult day centre.

Having been inspired by the Channel 4 ‘Old People’s Home for 4 Year Olds’, children and adults meet up once a week at Elizabeth House for an hour-long session led by the passionate staff team from the nursery including  singing, traditional table-top games, crafting and finishing up with time to chat, share stories and laugh usually over a drink and a snack.

Data overwhelmingly shows that when we bring together seniors and young people good things happen, and, as many families have less contact between generations there is a lot that nurseries can do to bridge the gap between older and younger people.

Adults thrive on the vibrancy and sense of fun the children bring with them.  Research shows a positive impact on both cognitive and physical performance as well as a reduction in loneliness and depression.  Xxxxx aged xx said ……………………………………………

Children gain from the added attention of an engaged elder. It helps them feel valued and builds respect for older people. Academic studies show children becoming more articulate and confident – they love to be watched and have someone to chat to and to laugh with them!  

There are no downsides, just benefits for young, old and society at large.

If you would like to know more about us visit us at www.cookhammontessori.com and www.elizabethhousecookham.org


VIBE - BEST PLACE TO WORK

9 May 2019


Vibe, a very successful teaching agency, run by Cookham resident Paul Harris won an award for the best place to work in the UK in London last night!
 
Paul and Renee have four children at Holy Trinity School in Cookham and are very involved in the local community. Renee is also singing at the Cookham Festival next week. Congratulations to them both.


COOKHAM BRIDGE CLOSED SATURDAY NIGHT

7 May 2019


Cookham Bridge was closed on Saturday night. Police set up a roadblock and when asked why replied they couldn’t say…..

Here’s why

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-berkshire-48169810


WILD ABOUT COOKHAM PHOTOS EXHIBITION

4 May 2019


Local photographers have been busy snapping, ahead of the exhibition which opens in Cookham's Odney Club 4th May.  The Wild About Cookham exhibition features 50 images taken in Cookham and selected from more than 120 submitted.


Visitors get the chance to vote for their favourite in three categories - Adult, Junior and Smartphone - with prizes in each category.  The awards evening is on Friday 17th May at 6pm at the Odney Club and all are welcome (more details on our Meetup site).

The exhibition is open each day between 10am and 4pm.  There is no charge - and it's a great opportunity also to visit the wonderful Sculpture Garden in the Odney Club grounds, now a regular Festival feature.

And a big Thank You to Richard Campin and Kira Holland who have put the exhibition together and the judges - Patrick Blake, Brian Clews, Maureen Smith and Mick Vogel.


LOCAL ELECTIONS

3 May 2019


The results for the Borough elections saw Mandy Brar( Lib Dem) getting back onto the Council and Gerry Clark (Conservative) being re-elected. 

Click here for the results.

 

There was only voting for the Parish Council from Cookham Rise and Cookham Dean wards as Cookham Village only had the correct numbers of candidates.The 

Lib Dems won all nine seats in the Cookham Rise area. 

Click here for Parish Council results.

The Conservatives still have control of the Council but with a reduced majority


WHAT'S ABOUT TALK AND WALK

28 April 2019


“The threat of rain and a rather dull morning did not dissuade a dozen or so of us gathering for the first of this year’s What’s About walks. Serenaded by a trumpeting Song Thrush and the more piccolo utterings of a Blackcap, we set off towards The Crown, checking the path-side vegetation for anything that moved. Keen eyes soon had us looking at several Seven-Spot Ladybirds before finding a pair of the notorious Harlequin Ladybird which has invaded our green and pleasant land! Jackdaws were busy stuffing sticks down one of the pub’s chimneys! Berries Lane enabled us to compare the similar renditions of Blackbird and another Song Thrush, whilst a dainty Goldcrest called close by, whilst evading us in the foliage. Green Alkanet plants along Vicarage Close hosted a few Marmalade Hoverflies, and we were soon on the churchyard watching an active Nuthatch clamber up and down the branches, and listening to Coal Tits chatting to each other.
 
Ferry Lane held a few White-tailed Bumble Bees and a pair of Dunnocks showing much ‘interest;’ in each other! We found some equally amorous Dock Beetles! Odney Bridge afforded close up views of a fine male Mandarin Duck (of which it is believed we now have more of in UK than in China!) Great-crested Grebes could be seen building up their nearby nest and a jinking Swallow passed overhead. At the weir, a pair of Grey Wagtails were acrobatically catching ‘Aprilflies’ in mid air to take off to their hidden nest, doubtless full of chicks’. This seemed a pity in a sense as Maylfies, even emerging a month early, have very ephemeral lives as it is without being grabbed the instant they leave the water’s surface to commence their 24-hour existence.
 
We found some attractive Lady’s Smock (or Cuckoo Flower), but did not hear the bird whose normal arrival coincides with the flowering of this delightful plant. With the rain now trickling down steadily we set off back to our starting place, but everyone seemed to have had their own little highlight of the stroll. There will be other What’s About walks cropping up during the summer, so look out for the announcements, or register at meetup.com/wildcookham to receive email alerts.


FESTIVAL FEAST SIGN UPS GATHER PACE

26 April 2019


If you have a ticket to any event in the Cookham Festival (except Rock the Moor), between the 4th to the 19th May, you can get a special deal at the following restaurants: Join the Festival Feast.

Anong Thai

Bel and the Dragon

The Crown

The King's Arms

The Old Butchers Wine Cellar

The Teapot Tea Shop

Maliks

The Old Swan Uppers

Spice Merchant

The White Oak


MAGNOLIA

18 April 2019


Some beautiful magnolia flowers photoed by a cookham.com reader. 
Wild about Cookham in April it calls to mind that the Magnolia blossom was one of Sir Stanley Spencer favourite subjects in Berries Road, The High Street and the grounds of The Odney Club.


YELLOW VEST SHORTAGE THREATENS GRAVITY GRAND PRIX

1 April 2019


A shortage of high-visibility yellow vests could mean the cancellation of this year’s Cookham Dean Gravity Grand Prix.

 

The organisers of the popular annual charity event have been left without supplies of the essential health & safety wear due to the high demand from French ‘Gilet Jaune’ protesters.

 

GGP committee member Peter Bartlett said: “Our old vests were looking a bit tatty, so we threw them away after last year’s event, and planned to kit our stewards out with brand new health & safety gear this year.

 

“However, it turns out that there are no yellow vests available. The French have been stockpiling supplies from right across Europe for months in order to enjoy a long, hot summer of rioting.

 

“We quite understand that civil disturbance is as much a part of the French way of life as family events such as the GGP are over here, but it seems a bit much that they’ve cornered the market.

 

“We’re having urgent talks with our health & safety advisers to see if we can kit out our stewards with different colour hi-vis vests, and they’re checking the regulations carefully.

 

“For the time being, we’re urging entrants to keep planning their Karts for this year’s event, and we’ll issue updates when we can.”

 

This year’s event is due to take place on 2nd September. The GGP has raised more than £140,000 for the Thames Valley Air Ambulance and other local causes over the past decade. For more information and register a Kart, go to www.GravityGrandPrix.co.uk 


STANLEY AND ELSIE

12 March 2019


Stanley and Elsie’, a historical novel by acclaimed author Nicola Upson, is to be published by Duckworth Press in May of this year. The story of the Sandham Memorial Chapel and Spencer’s subsequent colourful private life is told through the character of Elsie – the family’s loyal and efficient maid. It makes very enjoyable reading.
 
Whilst essentially a fictional account of this period of Stanley Spencer’s life, it is based on meticulous research (including long sessions in our own archives at the Stanley Spencer Gallery)


through which the author gained real understanding and insight into the artist’s life and work. The characters in the book are portrayed with true sensitivity and those with knowledge of Spencer’s paintings and drawings will see them skillfully evoked in descriptions of scenes and events.
The book will be available to buy in the Gallery shop and Nicola Upson will be coming to Cookham in the summer to give a talk and book- signing (date to be confirmed).


Spencer often looked back on the time Elsie worked for the family with fondness. His lively pencil sketch, Me Drawing Elsie, produced during the 1940s, is on show in our present exhibition and will continue to hang in the Gallery throughout the summer.


COOKHAM SOCIETY DESIGN AWARDS 2019

8 March 2019


At its Annual General Meeting on Thursday 7th March the President of the Cookham Society, Mr John Bowley, announced that the winner of the Society’s Annual Design Award for 2019 was Chapman’s Orchard, a recently redesigned and renovated house in Dean Lane, Cookham Dean. The Award consists of a certificate which would be followed later in the year by a blue ceramic plaque bearing the Society’s logo

Mr Bowley stated that the Award had been granted for the imaginative redesign and renovation of what had been a fairly unremarkable structure. The house has been recreated in a modern idiom, with great care devoted to maximising the advantages of the location by providing access to views of the nearby countryside. It integrates well with the unique green setting and rural character of Cookham Dean (see Cookham Village Design Statement, p.58), and provides an excellent example of the potential for improvement for many properties in the Parish.

Mr Bowley presented the Certificate to the Owner of the property, the novelist Karina Mellinger, and noted that the architect was Bowen Evans Architects, Marlow.


WILD ABOUT GARDENS SCHEME

5 March 2019


Last year WildCookham launched a Wild About Gardens scheme whereby Cookham residents could win prizes by making small changes in their gardens to make them Wildlife friendly. Many households entered. Many used no chemicals or planted more bee friendly flowering plants, but some actually built ponds! The scheme was so successful it is going to be run again this year. On Wednesday evening there will be a launch event held at Lea Barn to show how easy it is to get involved. It starts at 7.30pm and more details can be found at https://www.meetup.com/WildCookham/events/259302905/ 

WILDCOOKHAM POND WORK

25 February 2019


The pond was created a few years ago but never finished. With no plants growing in the water, there was very little else able to live in it. Also the pond liner was still very visible around the sides, neither attractive nor useful for wildlife. Maidenhead Aquatics and Flowerland in Bourne End had kindly donated most of the materials required to get the pond into shape. First the leaf litter was gently removed from the water, then the sides were covered in a soft capillary matting. Hessian sacks that had been made by WildCookham volunteer Clare Padmore, were filled with a mix of sharp sand and aquatic compost and laid over the matting. Irises were then placed around the edge of the water and held in place with shingle. Turf was then laid over the Hessian sacks. On top of all that, buddleias and brambles were cut back. Project leader, Mike Day said "We certainly got a lot done today especially the pond that I didn’t think we would nearly finish". The next working party day at the reserve will be in March. For more WildCookham events visit www.meetup.com/wildcookham  

Click here for a film of the Reserve.


WILDCOOKHAM TALK ON BUMBLEBEES

22 February 2019


WildCookham supporters were treated to a fascinating evening all about bumblebees on Wednesday. Adrian Doble, a zoologist who has represented the Bumblebee Conservation Trust at the BBC's Countryfile Live! and at the Ministry of Justice, gave a fact-filled presentation.


Starting with comparisons between bumblebees and honey bees and solitary bees, he moved onto the life cycle of bumblebees and threats to them - including farming practices, habitat loss and insecticides. Finally he covered the ways we can all help them out with the plants we should choose for our gardens and window boxes.


So what should we be planting? Mahonia, Daphne, lavender, borage, aquilegia - all sorts of fantastic things that flower at different times of year.

 

What's not worth bothering with? Begonias, petunias and geraniums!

 

Here's a comprehensive guide to gardening for bumblebees.


BOMB DISPOSAL IN COOKHAM

17 February 2019


Yesterday bomb disposal police were called out to Mill Lane where it was thought that an unexploded tank round had been found. The road was closed during the afternoon. 

This morning the Royal Logistical Corps, who are based at Northolt, x-rayed the "bomb round" and removed it to Maidenhead golf course where it was placed in a bunker and blown up, It was found not to be live.


GREAT BRITISH RAILWAY JOURNEYS

16 February 2019


Holy Trinity Church will feature in the episode of Great British Railway Journeys on Tuesday 19th February on BBC2 at 6.30pm.  This is a documentary series in which Michael Portillo travels the length and breadth of the country by train. The journey will be Reading to Taplow.


BOOK SIGNING AT THE LITTLE BOOKSHOP

9 February 2019


Anna Bennett an Olympic athlete in hockey has released a book called Health Kit which she hopes will contain the recipe for success when it comes to living life to the full.

She will be at The Little Bookshop in Cookham Village on 2 March to sign her new book, so just drop in.

Anna hopes the guide will be a useful assistant to people who are pursing a New Year's resolution about getting fitter, losing weight or practicing what she calls 'mental clarity'.


THE MOLE AND BADGER

1 February 2019


The Mole and Badger cordially invite you to attend their launch night and official opening of The Mole & Badger Restaurant, Bar & Wine Emporium on 1 February, 18.30 onwards. They are also holding an Open Day on 2 February 2019, 11.00am onwards.

They say "This midwinter shindig at Karma Sanctum on the Green will feature complimentary canapés showcasing the culinary creativity of our new head chef and his team. Enjoy welcome cocktails, wine, craft ales and expertly mixed drinks to stave off the winter chill. All in the most conducive of company - including perhaps one Toad of Toad Hall. Provided he leaves his motorcar at home!"


CAROL SERVICE COLLECTIONS

25 January 2019


The three Carols by Candlelight services (Advent, Christmas Day & Epiphany) at Holy Trinity Church raised a total of

 £2,226.94

for

 

Thank you to all those involved in these services and to everyone who supported these services and who gave so generously. We are delighted to have raised our biggest ever sum from these three services for such a wonderful charity - giving help and hope to us all.


NITROUS OXIDE CANISTERS

22 January 2019


Cookham Parish Council would like to know of any further sightings of the canisters so the police can be informed. So please let them know by emailing office@cookhamp arishcouncil.or g.uk with a rough location and they will pass the info on. Thanks!

The most silver canisters I have ever seen at the Alfred Major. All around the bench at the end of the school playing field. About 55, have reported to TVP via email.


HARRIS WOODBRIDGE NATURE RESERVE

21 January 2019


The Parish Council has recently given WildCookham the go ahead to look after the Harris Woodbridge nature reserve in Cookham Dean. It's a beautiful plot of land just off Dean Lane. Here's a short film about it. 

 

On Sunday January 27th a group of volunteers are heading up there to help tame the landscape. If you would like to be involved click here for more details:

 

 https://www.meetup.com/WildCookham/events/257703728/ 


BIG GARDEN BIRDWATCH

5 January 2019


With the Big Garden Birdwatch coming up at the end of January, what better way to prepare than to create your own bird house! Every home needs a bird box and here's an opportunity to make a perfect bird house guided by experts! WildCookham's next event is their now annual, popular nest box making session and it's suitable for adults and children.

 

Box kits together with tools will be provided (for a small fee) and boxes suitable for robins or blue tits can be made at this workshop. Bob Keene and others from the Bisham bird box group will be on hand to help and also advise on the best place to site them. The workshop is taking place at Lea Barn on Saturday 19th January. For more details and to register your interest please visit the WildCookham Meetup page here. 

 


The Crier Archives


Hear ye Hear ye! The Crier is always looking for things to shout about! Feel free to submit your Thoughts, Poems, Requests or anything you like to thecrier@cookham.com

 

 

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