Latest news

Age Concern are thrilled to share exciting news about a new community initiative "Unitea for the Community". This new group invites you to connect over a cup of tea, share ideas and support. Everyone is welcome.  

When : Every Tuesday  from 19 March

Time: 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM

Where: The Weathervane, Arlington Square, Wokingham Road, Bracknell RG42 1NA.

Keeping children entertained without breaking the bank can sometimes be a challenge. In Bracknell Forest there are many free or low-cost options to keep our younger residents amused as well as support available for families.

Half term fun at The Lexicon

The Lexicon will host a series of Beano themed activities.

From Saturday, 10 February to Sunday, 18 February you can take part in;

The Gnasher Trail- Families can follow the trail to find Gnasher and complete the comic-strip themed trail sheet by finding the punchlines to classic Beano jokes hidden around the town. Everyone that hands in a completed trail sheet to the team at Craft Coop, in Princess Square, will be given a free Beano comic, while stocks last.

Joke Boxes - Find the interactive fart-filled joke boxes featuring characters from the iconic Beano comic and daily activity sheets which can be taken away and completed at home.

From Monday, 12 February, to Friday, 16 February

Create with Beano, you can create your own comic character at the workshop in Princess Square. The 30-minute interactive workshops, suitable for children aged six to 12 years old, will be filled with whoopee cushion laughs.Places are free but you must book in advance.

Fun at the library

Bracknell Library: junk box engineering - 10 to 17 February, 10am to 2pm

Following the success of the junk box engineering sessions over the Christmas holidays, they will return for half-term. Materials will be provided so children just need to bring their inspiration and enthusiasm. 50p per child.

Crowthorne Library: children’s crafts - Tuesday, 13 February, 2pm to 3pm and half-term scavenger hunt

For ages three to 10 years, £2 per child and booking is essential. Includes a scavenger hunt for all ages from Saturday, 10 February to Saturday, 17 February.

Sandhurst Library: children’s crafts - Thursday, 15 February, 2pm to 3pm and half term scavenger hunt

For children aged three to 10, £2 (booking essential). Includes a scavenger hunt for all ages between Saturday, 10 February to Saturday, 17 February.

Details of more events for half term coming soon. Check for events on the library website for the latest information.

Local mental health charity, Sport in Mind, offers free weekly mum and baby sessions in Bracknell Forest include light movement and exercise for mothers and babies under one year old.

These sessions are open to mothers who have mental health problems, low mood or feel isolated.

Sessions are delivered by a qualified instructor and all equipment is provided.

When: Fridays, 10am - 11am (term-time only)

Where: The Willows and Maples family hub, Priestwood Court Road, RG42 1TU

Please email: info@sportinmind.org to book.

Bracknell Chess Club is offering a new family and children chess course starting next month. Sign up to learn the rules, basic moves and techniques, as well as the tactics of chess.

When: Thursdays, 6.15pm to 7.15pm, from 22 February to 25 April (excluding Easter).

Where: Hanworth Community Centre, Hanworth Road, Bracknell, RG12 7WX.

Cost: £15 per family (for 8-week course)

Trainer: English Chess Federation (ECF) accredited chess coach

Email: infobracknellchessclub@btinternet.com for more information and to register

Sport in Mind is a charity that aims to improve the lives of people experiencing mental health problems, through sport and physical activity. They are starting new tai chi session on Tuesdays at Carnation Hall, Chavey Down. Everyone is welcome and no experience or special equipment is needed. Take time for yourself and give it a go.

If you would like to find out more about this free class, or other activities offered, please email info@sportinmind.org or call 07823 973 782.

When: Tuesdays, 10am to 11am

Where: Carnation Hall, Chavey Down Road, RG42 7PA

Cost: Free

Pop along to the centre and see the range of activities on offer.

There will be an opportunity to speak to centre staff and engage with some of the clubs and activities that take place at the community centre. There will be free craft activities for children with Creation Station and face painting for £2 a child.

There will be four demonstrations with some of their regular hirers.

They will run in the meeting rooms at :

2pm-2:20pm – yoga with Sam

2:30pm-2:50pm - baby sensory

3pm-3:20pm – clinical pilates with Nikki

3:30pm-3:50pm - tiny talk

Light refreshments will be available to purchase. There is no need to book and entry is free.

Where: Jennetts Park Community Centre

When: Saturday, 13 January from 2pm-4pm

Do you want to be part of new, vibrant dance community in Bracknell? The classes are for Soul and Rhthmm and Blue enthusiasts who want to groove to the iconic beats and melodies that have shaped generations. The classes are fun and help you to improve your health and make new friends who share your enthusiasm for Soul music.

Soul Lines teachers, Della and Monique are both passionate about R and B music, love to dance and have wanted to put these classes on for many years. Whether you're a seasoned dancer or taking your first steps onto the dance floor, Soul-Line offers a welcoming space for all ages and skill levels.

Where: Great Hollands Pavillion, RG40 3EE.

When: Starting in the New Year from the 9th January, every Tuesday at 7.30pm

Cost: £12 pay on the door or you can buy a block booking pass.

All Abilities offer Aiki Jujitsu classes in Bracknell. Aiki Jujitsu is a versatile martial art, using joint locks, throws, and striking techniques. Join them and take the first step towards a safer and more confident you. Learn self-defense from skilled instructors, boost your confidence, and enhance your personal safety. Suitable for all abilities.

When : Monday 6pm - 7pm for ages 10+ and Thursday 8pm 9pm for ages 16+.

Where: New Priestwood Community Centre , Priestwood Court Rd, Bracknell, RG42 1TU

Call: 07865 257 724

Email: allabilitiesmartialart@outlook.com to book a place.

The Happiness Hub is a collaboration of support services offering mental health and well-being advice to individuals 18 years and over who live in Bracknell Forest and surrounding areas. Stay connected and join them at their drop in sessions in December.

The Drop-in Sessions this month are;

• Bracknell – Thursday, 7 December 10am until 1pm @ Brew Coffee Bar, formally Cup of Rosie - Town Square, Bracknell RG12 1BH

• Binfield – Tuesday, 12 December 11am until 1pm @ The Foxes Den Café , Benetfeld Road, Bracknell RG42 4EW

• Crowthorne – Friday, 15 December 11am until 1pm at Crowthorne Fire Station, High Street, Crowthorne RG45 7AH

• Sandhurst – Tuesday, 19 December 10:30am until 12:20pm at Sandhurst Park Café, Yorktown Road, Sandhurst GU47 9BJ)

Make happiness a habit

Everyone Active are launching a new programme of activities to improve your health and wellbeing and a programme for seniors. If you would like to know more, why not pop along for a Christmas Drink and mince pie to see their new programme starting in January 2024.

What: Senior and Health and Wellbeing Programme 2024 Programme release

Where: Bracknell Leisure Centre

When: Monday, 11 December 1pm to 2.30pm

Everyone welcome

A new chat and art group is coming to Birch Hill library. Rozzie from Cross your Art will create a space for you to doodle, write and chat. Each week there will be a theme to inspire you, or you can do your own thing. Just bring your sketchbook and pens.

Where: Birch Hill Library

When: Thursday 10am to 11am

Cost : Free

If you suffer from dementia, or care for someone who does, this 0.7 mile walk around Englemere Pond might be of interest to you.

Location: Englemere Pond

Date: Thursday, 30 November 2023.

Start time: 10am.

Duration: 45 minutes (ends with a coffee and cake stop close by).

They are free to attend and conducted ‘at your pace’. They provide residents with a great opportunity to get fit, while enjoying outdoor scenery and making friends.

For enquiries and to book your space on this walk, please contact Age UK Berkshire.

Email: info@ageukberkshire.org.uk

Phone: 0118 959 4242

Bracknell Library is hosting a special tea party on Thursday, 19 October, 2pm to 3:30pm for Get Online week. You can try out their easy to use Samsung galaxy tablets and see how much fun you can have. You can have a cup of tea and a piece of cake or a biscuit and learn new skills. Bracknell Library want everyone to experience their digital services and to have fun with the technology that they have on offer at the library.

This event is aimed at those with little or no experience of using technology – it’s just a taster session and it will be fun!

They will show you how to:

• Take a picture or two to print out

• Try out Borrowbox e-book and e-audiobooks, PressReader digital newspapers and magazines and Freegal music download and streaming service.

• Use the Internet for finding information such as recipes and craft ideas

• Download free apps for fun activities like colouring and solving crosswords

Contact Bracknell Library to book your free place on 01344 423149

Work to open Buckler’s Park Community Hub in Crowthorne has moved one step closer, with the appointment of Age Concern Bracknell Forest (ACBF) as the new hub operator.

Age Concern Bracknell Forest will breathe life into the hub, using the range of facilities, including café, large sports hall, meeting rooms and tennis courts, to offer a number of activities and services to local people of all ages.

Ideally located against the back-drop of Buckler’s Forest, a popular spot for walking and cycling, the aspiration is for the hub to start serving the community within the next few months.

Binfield are hosting their Summer of Fun family day at Farley Wood Community Centre, Turnpike Road, Binfield, RG42 1FW on Thursday, 24 August between 11am and 3pm. The event is free, though you may wish to purchase some refreshments or an ice cream. Alternatively, why not bring a picnic!

Winkfield Parish are hosting their Summer of Fun family day at Locks Ride Recreation Ground on Thursday, 10 August between 11am and 3pm. The event is free, though you may wish to purchase some refreshments or an ice cream. Alternatively, why not bring a picnic!

The other towns and parishes will also be hosting Summer of Fun events throughout August.

Thursday, 10 August - Locks Ride Recreation Ground, Winkfield

Tuesday, 15 August - Morgan Recreation Ground, Crowthorne

Thursday, 24 August - Farley Wood Centre, Binfield

Sandhurst are hosting their Summer of Fun family day at Sandhurst Memorial Ground on Friday, 4 August between 11am and 3pm. The event is free, though you may wish to purchase some refreshments or an ice cream. Alternatively, why not bring a picnic!

The other towns and parishes will also be hosting Summer of Fun events throughout August.

Friday, 4 August - Sandhurst Memorial Ground, Sandhurst

Thursday, 10 August - Locks Ride Recreation Ground, Winkfield

Tuesday, 15 August - Morgan Recreation Ground, Crowthorne

Thursday, 24 August - Farley Wood Centre, Binfield

Berkshire Age UK are hosting monthly Dementia Walks. The first walk will be on Thursday, 27July at Popes Meadow in Binfield. Afterwards you can join them for a coffee and chat at The Foxes Den which is a short drive away.

When: Meet at 10am on Thursday, 27 July then again on 31 August, 28 September, 26 October, 30 November.

Where: Car Park at Popes Meadow in Binfield, off St Mark's Road, Binfield, RG42 4AY.

Hosted by Easthampstead Baptist Church, Sunday Funday is an event for the whole family. There is a BBQ, refreshments, inflatable obstacle course, and giant games. For the younger children there is soft play, trains, a mobile farm, face painting, and much more. Everyone is welcome. All activities and the barbecue are free.

When: Sunday, 25 June from 11.00am till 3.00pm

Where : Easthampstead Baptist Church, South Hill Road, Bracknell, RG12 7NS

For more info contact the church office on 01344 487744 or email: officestaff@ebc-bracknell.org

Please note there is no parking on the site.

Please note updated venue for the health walk on Friday, 19 May.

Come along and join the Sandhurst Health Walk, on Friday, 19 May at Sandhurst Community Centre. You will walk through Shepherd Meadows and along the Blackwater River. You can take time to notice the beautiful surroundings along the riverbank and spot some wild flowers.

The terrain is flat and paved and you can take a rest if you need to. You will never be rushed nor made to feel that you are holding anyone up.

After the walk you can pop into Sandhurst Park Cafe, in The Park, for coffee, tea or juice; where there is always a warm welcome by Parm and his team. Everyone is welcome to come along for drinks after the walk.

When: Friday, 19 May

Time: 9.30am

Where: Sandhurst Town Council Offices and Community Centre, Yorktown Road, Sandhurst, GU47 9BJ

Tai chi is an excellent form of gentle exercise with many health benefits including relaxation, stress reduction and the promotion of good balance. The new classes are starting on Tuesday, 16 May until mid July, at Bracknell Library.

Contact Bracknell Library on 01344 423149 to book the first session and each subsequent session a week in advance.

When: Tuesdays 10:30am to 11:30am

Where: Bracknell Library, The Avenue, Bracknell, RG12 1BH

Cost: £5 (pay on the day with the exact money)

BADHOGS is for residents of Bracknell Forest and surrounding areas who are either deaf or hard-of-hearing. The group meets once a month for a social, informative discussion, support/help, refreshments and a raffle! There is a Loop system and the group are supported by a registered BSL interpreter at all of their meetings.

When : 4th Monday of the month (except August and December)

Time : 2pm - 4pm

Where: Birch Hill Community Centre.

Cost : Annual membership is £12 and £1 for each meeting (£2 for non-members)

For more information contact Nigel King on 07947675959

Are you a carer and need signposting and information to;

• Apply for benefits and assessments

• Help with your caring role

• Refer you to other organisations

At 'Care for Cuppa' you can talk to someone who understands, and meet other carers.

When: Thursday, 4 May and then every first Thursday of the month

Time : 10am to 11am

Where: Crowthorne Library, 162 High Street, Crowthorne, RG45 7AT

The Parkinson's Singing Café welcomes anyone with Parkinson's, and their family/carer. Each session includes singing and musical activities followed by time to have tea/coffee with a biscuit and a chat. You can meet new friends, socialise and re-engage with other like-minded people in the community.

When: Every 2nd and 4th Friday of the month

Time: 11:00am-12:00pm

Where: Open Learning Centre, Bracknell RG12 7GR

Cost: £2.50.

If you want to book or have any questions, please email singingcafes@berkshiremaestros.org.uk

Berkshire Maestros are hosting a free family ‘Have a go’ event where you can try all their instruments! Pop along to chat to the music teachers, try instruments and get some goodies. The whole family is welcome, no appointment needed.

When: Thursday, 30 March

Time: 4.30pm to 6.30pm

Where: Bracknell Music Centre, Ranelagh School, Ranelagh Drive, Bracknell, RG12 9DA

The Happiness Hub are very excited to announce their brand new drop-in session at the Crowthorne Fire Station starting Friday, 17 March from 11am until 1pm. They will be at the Fire Station on the 3rd Friday of the month signposting to groups and sessions in the area, hot drinks, crafts, games and more!

When: The third Friday of every month

Time: 11am to 1pm

Where: Crowthorne Fire Station

Keep your eyes peeled for more sessions popping up in your area very soon!

Let's make Happiness a Habit!

New Chess class at Bracknell Library

Checkmates are starting a new free chess class at Bracknell Library. The course is suitable for beginners, intermediate and experienced players.

When: Friday 14, April from 10am to 11am

Where: Bracknell Library

If you like to know more about it contact Jon Lloyd on 01344 454000 or email him on jonll58@btinternet.com

Do you love flowers? Would you like to learn how to create a simple flower arrangement in a friendly environment?

Then why not go along to the Bracknell Flower club. The club meets monthly and runs a varied programme throughout the year. For an annual subscription of £40, you will have the opportunity to watch a paid demonstrator create 5 or 6 beautiful arrangements. You will enjoy several hands on teaching sessions to enable you to create your own design, as well as take part in some social events. They are a very friendly club and everyone is welcome (under 16’s must be accompanied by an adult). No prior knowledge or experience is needed.

Take a look at their Facebook page to see what they have created so far. Visitors are also welcome for £6.

When: the 2nd Wednesday of every month

Time: 7.30pm

Where: The New Priestwood Community Centre, Priestwood Court Road, Bracknell, RG42 1TU

Babes and Toddlers is a small, friendly toddler group which meets every Wednesday (except August). All pre school children are welcome. The children can enjoy painting, crafts, toys and music time. Mums, dads, grandparents and carers are all welcome, coffee and biscuits

When: Wednesday 10:30 am to 12:00 noon

Cost: £2 per family including coffee and biscuits

Where: Sandhurst and Yateley Methodist Church, Scotland Hill, Sandhurst, GU47 8JR

For further information please look at our Facebook page or contact Sandra Wooledge 01344 775177 or email wooledge7@hotmail.com

During half term Bracknell Library is hosting an Ancient Egypt Craft Event for children aged 5-9.

When Friday, 17 February

Time: 2.30pm to 4pm

Cost: £1 per child.

Booking is essential. Please speak to a member of staff to book your place or telephone 01344 423149

Bracknell Forest's families can now take part in alive n kicking's free Healthy Families Cook-a-Long sessions!

The cook-a-long sessions will be a part of a 14-week programme, alongside nutrition workshops and 45-minutes of exercise to increase physical activity.

Sessions will now start on Wednesday 8th February at Carnation Hall from 5-7pm. That's 2 hours of fun and engaging cook-a-long demonstrations with our Nutritionist and Weight Management co-ordinator to give families a real flavour of different dishes and discover how to make tasty, balanced meals for a healthy you!

Each family will be provided with ingredients weekly to re-create the tasty dishes at home and put what they've learnt to the test!

When: Wednesday 8, February

Where: Carnation Hall, Chavey Down Road Winkfield Row, Bracknell, RG42, 7PA

Time: 5pm -7pm

Bracknell Forest Singing for Wellbeing Group (on Zoom)is a small and friendly group open to everyone regardless of singing ability. No performances, no pressure, just lots of happy singing for wellbeing, health and fun. Group singing has been proven to lift mood, reduce stress, anxiety, reduce pain, increase immunity and improve respiratory function, but most of all, It’s fun!

They sing uplifting and happy songs from the shows, songs from the 40s, 50s, 60s and 70s, spirituals, funny songs and more! Its a great way to meet other local people and enjoy some relaxed singing, laughter and fun and you don't even have to leave the house.

When: Tuesdays at 2pm on Zoom. Free tech help available for anyone who hasn’t used Zoom before and would like to give it a try!

The group is fully inclusive – we welcome people with long-term health conditions, those going through an emotionally tough time, carers who need some respite and anyone who loves some relaxed singing and laughter.

Email jane@singyourpainaway.co.uk for more information or to book a free trial session.

Yoga Pranayama helps you to learn how to connect with body, breath and mind. It will help you to strengthen your body, improve balance, coordination and focus.

You will be able to manage your stress and sleep better, have more energy and enhanced moods.

So, if you fancy the opportunity to step away from everyday stress and invest in your self-care and wellbeing, why not go along and give it a try. The first session is free.

Where: Bullbrook Community Centre

When: Thursday 7pm to 9pm

For more information call: 07424 772 267

Website – www.breathefortransformation.com

Crafty Sew and Sews are running a 'make a bag from an old T -Shirt' workshop.

Bring an old T- shirt, scissors and a ruler to make your shopping bag. All instructions will be given.

When : Wednesday, 25 January

Time : 1pm to 3.15pm

Cost : £3 per session

Where: Forest Park Community Centre, Horndean Road, Forest Park, Bracknell, RG12 0XQ

For more information call Pamela on 07817 936 752

Winter Walks for Wellness are running until March to encourage people to get out and be active during the cold winter months.

The hour- long walks from Community Winter Hubs at Birch Hill, Binfield, Bracknell, Crowthorne and Whitegrove Libraries, as well as from Time Square Community Hub.

Come along on Tuesdays to

Crowthorne Library from 10am to 11am

Time Square Community Hub from 12.30pm to 1.30pm

Birch Hill Library from 2.30pm to 3.30pm

Come along on Thursdays to

Bracknell Library from 10am to 11am

Binfield Library from 12.30pm to 1.30pm

Whitegrove Library from 2.30pm to 3.30pm

Wilde Young Producers is an exciting, free course for 15–20-year-olds with a keen interest in the arts and events, offering young people the opportunity to gain hands-on experience working in a professional venue. Participants learn about: producing, budgeting, marketing, collaboration, idea generating, project delivery and much more!

The Wilde Young Producers get to put their new skills to the test by creating a week-long festival of arts, crafts and performance for local primary school students, known as Wilde Week. Check out this video from Wilde Week 2022: www.youtube.com/watch?v=m8sS0NbLukc

Sessions run on Mondays and start back in Feb 2023. It is free but you must apply on our website by Wed 21 Dec: www.southhillpark.org.uk/events/wilde-young-producers

Active Antz is a fun and safe session aimed at babies/toddlers/ young children 0-5 years.

Aim of the Session

• Children and parents have an opportunity to play and interact

• Children have fun, get active and play

• Social interaction and increasing learning.

Active Ants sessions are on Monday/Tuesday and Thursday 9am/10am and 11am 45minute sessions.

Sport in Mind are delighted to once again be the official charity partner for RED January

RED January is a nationwide public health movement, empowering people to move every day in January to support their own mental wellbeing and raise funds to help Sport in Mind reach and support others.

Whether you run, swim, cycle or choose your favourite fitness activity, set your goal and enjoy support from the RED and Sport in Mind community every step, splash and pedal of the way!

Birch Hill Library: Tuesday, 20 December between 1pm and 3pm (craft session for ages 4-11, cost £1.50) Book your place

Bracknell Library: Monday, 19 December between 11am and 12 noon (Christmas party with story time, songs and crafts for ages 3-10, cost £2.) Booking advised

Crowthorne Library: Saturday, 10 December and Saturday, 17 December between 10am and 3pm (drop in for different crafts each week for ages 2+, cost £2)

Great Hollands Library: Wednesday, 21 December between 12 noon and 2pm (craft session for ages 4-11, cost £1.50) Book your place.

Harmans Water Library: Saturday, 17 December between 10am and 12 noon (craft session for ages 4-11, cost £1.50) Book your place

Sandhurst Library: Saturday, 10 December and Saturday, 17 December between 10am and 3pm (drop in for different crafts each week for ages 2+, cost £2).