Advertiser review of the year 2024: March

It was the end of a political era as Theresa May revealed she would not be standing in the upcoming General Election.

The long-serving Conservative politician exclusively announced her decision in the Advertiser – telling readers that after 27 years she no longer felt she could offer the dedication required for the job.

The former Prime Minister’s announcement fired the starting gun for the race to be the town’s next MP.

Mrs May made the most of her remaining time in office as she tested out a flight simulator at Maidenhead-based cyber security firm Ultra Intelligence & Communications.

Months of disruption at Cookham Bridge also came to an end as the council completed its complex programme of repair works.

The historic river crossing re-opened to drivers, having been closed since October 2023.

The first scene in the Holyport Film Studios saga played out as Windsor and Maidenhead council rejected plans for the controversial proposals.

Objectors criticised the scale of the plans and warned some of the studio buildings would be higher than the surrounding trees.

Councillors blocked the scheme but it was not to be the last villagers heard of this story.

Maidenhead United chairman Peter Griffin provided some further clarity over another long-running saga – the Magpies’ failed stadium move.

Mr Griffin confirmed the National League club would not be taking legal action against the council over its decision to block Maidenhead’s move to Braywick Park.

He said the club was continuing to explore its options regarding a potential relocation.

Elsewhere in the town centre, the Shanly Group’s Waterside Quarter scheme received a Design Award from the Maidenhead Civic Society.

The accolade recognised how the project had ‘transformed’ this part of the town.

The month concluded with an annual tradition as hundreds of worshippers took part in the Walk of Witness through town on Good Friday.