125 train overhanging Thatcham level crossing!

I took these pictures early on Thursday morning (13 September) of two different trains stopped at Thatcham Station bound for London. If only the 125 trains could move a few feet into the station the barriers could be raised and the traffic could flow again. Is it not that simple?

Ufton Nervet Level Crossing - Petition

I met train commuters outside Thatcham train station at 6am on Thursday morning (13 September), to get signatures for a petition to install a full width barrier and CCTV cameras at Ufton Nervet level crossing.

A full width barrier would stop people going around the barriers and CCTV would be linked to a signal box. The operator can then check whether the crossing is clear before dropping the barriers. Therefore, If there is a problem, they can alert the train driver and take action.

This should help to prevent a further tradgedy like the rail crash at the Ufton Nervet level crossing in 2004 that killed 7 and in May this year when another person died.

   

New Play Area at Henwick - Official Opening

The new play area at Henwick Worthy sports field was officially opened on Wednesday 22nd August.

Hamish Hearn, a local school boy, was invited to cut the ribbon and officially open the new play area. Hamish approached the Henwick Management Committee last year with photographs of state of the art play equipment he wanted to see installed at the sports field.

The Henwick Management Committee were so impressed with the presentation by Hamish, that councillors worked hard to find funding through developers' contributions and a grant from West Berkshire Council to purchase the new play equipment. 

Pupils from Whitelands Park Primary and Parsons Down Schools were then invited to vote on one of three play equipment designs and I am pleased to say that the winning entry has been a hit with mums, dads and more importantly the children!    


  

'Merge in Turn' - Please

Following a collision between an articulated tanker and a sports car, just after the traffic light junction on the A4 & Hambridge Road westbound, I have asked the highways department at West Berkshire Council if they will install a ‘Merge in Turn’ road sign and lane markings.  This will assist both traffic flow and road safety.

Police Point the Way

This is the police van that draws driver’s attention to the 30 mph speed limit in Bowling Green Road. As soon as it has gone, speed is back up to 40, 50, 60…..

I am still trying to persuade the highways department at West Berkshire Council, that we need 24hr speed enforcement in the road though!