THE NEW Mayor of Bracknell Town has officially launched The Bracknell Festival after opening a new fishing area at The Cut.

Cllr Sandra Ingham cut the ribbon on the brand new fishing platform while enjoying a family day out at the Spring Event on Sunday.

The fishing platform is named after Joseph Mills, a young soldier who died during the First World War while serving with the Royal Berkshire Regiment. The 36-year-old lived close to Jocks Lane with his parents John and Elizabeth Mills, and later with his wife Elsie Ladd Mills in Alvescott Cottages in Wokingham Road.

The Joseph Mills Approach will make The Cut accessible for all ages and abilities,and provide Bracknell residents with yet another outdoor recreation facility.

Cllr Ingham said: "Bracknell Town Council’s Parks Team works hard to maintain high standards of presentation at all our Bracknell parks. We are especially proud of the popularity of Jocks Lane and welcome fishing as a healthy and relaxing sport."