Windsor Housing in partnership with the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead presented Summer in da Hood which was a roaring success for the second year running. An average of over 30 youngsters took part each day in the sessions in Datchet and Dedworth.

“It was fun and exciting and I want it on next year.” Praise indeed from 8 year old Alfie who proudly sports his bespoke t-shirt that he personally designed in one of the many popular workshops on offer.

Other popular activities were the MC class, where wannabe recording artists learnt from a professional MC how to write and perform songs, before recording and mixing their own tracks. Thanks to the film and drama workshop on offer, these potential future stars were also able to shoot a music video to accompany their song.

If any of the talented youngsters do make the big time, they won’t have to look far for some backing dancers, as the street dance classes produced some twinkle-toed naturals who should have a very bright future. Junk percussion, yoga, henna, clay, cartooning, beauty therapy, braiding and even Indian head massage were all on offer to the youngsters and according to 10 year old Jessica “all the activities were wonderful”.

The staff also made the most of the chance, Simon Riley, a Neighbourhood Officer for Windsor Housing, part of the Radian Group, said “It really gets staff involved in the neighbourhoods they work in and helps identify issues that are important to young people.”

Parents were amazed at how energised and positive their children were after attending the activity days, as well as being very grateful for the opportunity to be able to leave their kids in a structured, safe environment for absolutely no charge whatsoever.