Train drivers union Aslef has called on Network Rail to install an electronic system to prevent events like the Ufton Nervet train crash last year.

The Trackmaster device is already used in Hong Kong, and alerts train drivers when there are obstacles on the tracks. A Reading man stalled his car on the level crossing, killing himself and six others traveling on the express train to Penzance, including a mother and daughter from Speen.

Turf’s up

Newbury Racecourse will be doubling the number of meets at its Stroud Green course. Course managers have been given the go-ahead for a £2m all-weather track to be installed, adding 30 more dates to the local racing calendar. Newbury Racecourse is regarded among the top 12 courses in the country, and is celebrating its centenary year.

Power surge

Southern Electric has announced a slight dip in profits to £194m. The firm is pumping more than £100m into upgrading cables, pylons and substations, after a spate of powercuts in recent years. Parent company Scottish and Southern Energy is pushing heavily into windfarms north of the border, while increased consumption and heavy housebuilding in the south has created record demand.

More period homes flattened

Three houses in Rockingham Road are to be flattened to make way for seven modern maisonettes. Developers have been targeting West Fields relentlessly by increasing densities, after a change in the planning rules to protect greenbelt.

Newbury wins at Chelsea

Skinners Green plant nursery Foxgrove Farm has scooped an award at Chelsea Flower Show for the second year running. The Enborne exhibitor won silver for its display of ornamental grasses, after winning gold in the same category last year.

New look pub

The Queens Arms in Newbury’s Market Place has been refurbished inside. The 17th century coaching inn has brought in new furniture to provide more places to sit, and festooned the main bar area with large plants to give a tropical feel.