CONGRATULATIONS: To Cllr George Hood, who has been elected deputy leader of the council.

This is the first time that a Norden Ward councillor has held the position.

CHILD care: Do you need child care over the summer holidays? The Vyne Community School offers all-day child care.

You can book for one day or five weeks, and prices start at £10.

For more information, call the community office on 01256 407037.

WHY not get fit? The Vyne Fit for Life studio is open throughout the summer.

The equipment includes bikes, treadmills, a multi-gym, cross-trainer and rowing machines in an air-conditioned studio. Call the Vyne's community office for more details.

PLAY area: I am pleased that the play area in Oakridge Road is now being used by local children. I hope they are also making use of the other areas.

RESIDENTS association: Don't forget the meeting on Monday, at 7.30pm, in the Oakridge Hall For All, to restart the residents association.

It is a chance for you to become involved in your area, have your say, and encourage those people who are willing to help.

WARNING: To children living in the regeneration area, building sites are dangerous. Please don't play near them and keep away from any equipment.

CONTACT details: Useful numbers include - borough councillors: Laura James, 01256 322108; George Hood, 359917; and Paul Harvey, 419841. County councillor Jane Frankum can be reached on 01256 818924, Sentinel Housing on 338800; and the police beat office on 405286.

Contact me by telephone on 01256 475380, write to me at 16 Brocas Drive, Basingstoke, RG21 5LT, or e-mail me at blairman@ntlworld.com