COOKHAM had an unexpected power cut on Friday evening which left 1487 homes without electricity. An official of the Southern Electricity authority told the BFP on Monday that the problem was caused by a faulty cable. The cut lasted from 6.09-9.21pm and left many homes without heating or any electricity. There are a great many pensioners living in the Cookhams and many homes have a single resident. Local people are advised to make sure they have a good torch handy and candles and matches in case there are any other cuts this winter.

HALLOWEEN and Bonfire Night are on the immediate calendar and police ask that 'trick or treat' and fireworks are treated with great care. Organised parties are the safest way of enjoying fireworks and tickets are now on sale for the lst Cookham Scouts' annual bonfire and firework display on Saturday, November 2. This will be at Formosa Meadow off Mill Lane and the bonfire will be lit at 6.30pm. No personal fireworks are allowed at the event and tickets cost £3 before the day and £4 on the gate. This is a well organised and popular local fun event.

THIS weekend a party of French people are coming from Cookham's French twin Saint Benoit. They arrive today and tomorrow there will be a sightseeing tour of London including such favourites as the Tower of London. Hosts can join in this London visit if they wish.

On Sunday guests can attend church if they wish and enjoy a lunch with the President of the Cookham Twinning, Richard Simmonds, at his home in Cookham Dean. In the evening there will be a French Halloween and entertainment in Pinder Hall at 7pm. The French guests return home on Monday. During the Halloween party there will be entertainment from Val Rice and her friends and tickets are £8 for twinning members and £10 for non-members. The price includes supper and tickets are available at the Village Hardware and Cookham Dean Post Office.

AT Cookham Dean Parish Church there will be a Julian Meeting or prayer of the quiet tomorrow at 9.30am when anybody is welcome to attend as this is an ecumenical event.

THE annual box opening for the Children's Society will be tomorrow in the church vestry from 2pm to 4pm. There will be a bring and buy stall, a competition and refreshments will be available. There is a rather diminishing band of box holders and if anybody would like to join in contact Susan Poad at 01628 484298.

THE Horticultural Society meets next Wednesday at 7.45pm in Cookham Dean Village Hall. Alan Sawyer will give an illustrated insight into The History of the Chelsea Flower Show. He was the manager of the Chelsea Show for 14 years. Visitors pay £1 entry while members are free.

ON Thursday the Cookham Good Companions Club will enjoy an outing to Holme Grange, Wokingham where members will have lunch. There is a craft barn and picture gallery.