COOKHAM

THIS CELEBRATION was over-shadowed by the horror of the bombings in London. Children in local schools on Friday were comforted by teachers and a special prayer was pinned to the entrance of Holy Trinity Church. "It is a difficult time and special prayers will be said in the church" the vicar, Rev Michael Smith, told the MFP.

On Monday evening a monthly service of wholeness and healing included prayers for those caught up in the London carnage.

At Holy Trinity Primary School headmaster David Oakden told the children that despite the evil shown by the terrorists there had been great unity shown by those who were involved.

AFTER 19 YEARS David Oakden is leaving the school and Graham Aldous will take his place. Mr Aldous lives at Binfield and he has deputy head teacher at St Peter's in Old Windsor for four years and before that he was at Dedworth Middle School. He is married with a 15 month old daughter. His wife was a teacher and he is keen on sport particularly hockey. "I am thrilled to be at Holy Trinity School and I look forward to putting it on the map", Mr Aldous told the MFP.

ON SUNDAY there will be a picnic on the paddock at Holy Trinity Church from midday with 20 minutes of praise followed by the picnic and games.

PEW NEWS is on the lookout for a new editor after Liz Horby has given up the job.

BOATING CHALLENGES will, as usual, be a feature of the Bounty Raft Race and Fun Day on Saturday, July 30. If you would like to enter a team in one of the fun races ring the pub on 01628 520056.

LULLEBROOK BRIDGE at the end of Odney Lane has been re-opened after a makeover. The former bridge had a low weight restriction that meant problems for emergency and maintenance vehicles unable to gain access to Odney Common and Cookham Lock.

THERE HAS BEEN an increased police presence in the Cookhams with the station area being checked regularly. At the weekend there was a burglary at Poundfield House in Grange Road when thieves were disturbed and ran off leaving a pile of computer ware.