It was lovely over the Easter weekend to see so many of you enjoying the variety of activities our borough has to offer.

The Forest Springs event in the town centre, celebrating the role that water has in our environment, saw people of all ages exploring the activities on offer. The talent displayed in the water colour painting studio was testament to the creativity of our residents, while the digital art of ‘As Water Falls’ had everyone in awe.

We’re now busy planning celebrations for Her Majesty The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee. Don’t forget, if you’re planning a street party with your neighbours then you may need to apply for a road closure. Road closures applications are free across the jubilee weekend but must be submitted by 29 April: Platinum Jubilee street parties | Bracknell Forest Council (bracknell-forest.gov.uk)

We are lucky in our borough to have so much green and open space to explore. During the lockdowns I know that many of you benefited from these spaces for your daily exercise and it is so good to see that so many have continued to get out and about.

From Swinley Forest, Lily Hill Park and Sandhurst Memorial Park, to our parks around the town there is so much to explore without having to travel far. Being out in nature is not just good for our physical health but also our mental health. Taking time out of your busy schedules to enjoy the calm of the outdoors whether it is a stroll around the forest or a run in one of the parks, something I know many residents are doing in preparation for the Bracknell Half Marathon, is such a great way to refocus the mind.

For families, these open spaces are a great way to allow children to have the freedom to explore nature whether it is building dens, spotting wildlife or learning how the environment around us changes with the seasons. In Lily Hill Park there is even a new wildlife trail to discover with brass rubbings along the way.

Whenever you visit one of these outdoor spaces, you will always find something new to discover as well as the wonderful tranquillity that nature brings.

Enjoy exploring our wonderful borough.