wyvern theatre
christmas panto update
inswindon feature christmas events
Highways monthly update! inside im smiling drove vets and sndogs update
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06 Highways update, this month we get the low down on whats happening to our roads over the coming months.
We check in on Drove Vets for an update ahead of bonfire night, some great advice to help your pets over this annual event.
12 Empire Movies The latest releases coming to IMAX this month.
16 Community News Cyber crime, Inbid Swindon and whats on in the coming months.
14 Anything Swindon’s very own Graham stands up to his fear of the dentist in this new regular diary feature.
17 Wythern Update! We catch up with the team at The Wyvern Theatre with an update on the the Christmas Panto.
22 Forest Holidays Fancy a break this autumn, what better than a hot tub under the stars!
25 Competions Win tickets to the movies and see the Wildcats in action.
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25 Christmas in the Town Centre We catch up on the team at Inswindon with the events planned for Christmas.
31 Robert Buckland Anything Swindon catch up with Robert Buckland Conservative MP for South Swindon.
Graham
Ian
Welcome to the new issue of the Anything Swindon Magazine. Welcome to another packed edition of the Anything Swindon Magazine, every month we dedicate the pages to good local, informative and readable content. We deliver to 25,000 homes and businesses every month striving to ensure the best quality magazine is on time to homes across South and East Swindon using our dedicated in-house team of distributors.
Questions and feedback: Unit 73 BSS House, Cheney Manor, Swindon, Wiltshire, SN2 2PJ Phone: 01793 977117 Email: info@anythingswindon.co.uk Online: www.anythingswindon.co.uk Designed & Printed: Screaming Media Ltd www.screamingmedia.co.uk Readership: 75,000 Circulation: 25,000 Online View: 15,000 per month
Follow us on Social Media: facebook.com/anythingSwindon
In this copy, we feature some great news and stories, including an update from The Highways Agency regarding some upcoming projects that look to affect the flow of traffic dramatically, including an in-depth update on work being carried out on Junction 16. Our monthly update from Drove Vets highlights the concerns surrounding pets and fireworks; we also have a column from our friends at SNDogs who are helping Pip and Gizmo new homes. Due to the popularity of our tattoo removal and Slimming World diaries, we have made contact with Smiles Dental Surgery to give you our readers a detailed journal highlighting people’s fear of the dentist, putting myself in the hot seat. I will undergo significant treatment, having had a fear of the dentist for two decades with little treatment in this time I will be having fillings, extractions and constructive work over a period to bring you our readers a detailed diary from start to finish. Please enjoy this month’s edition and feel free to send in your community news and stories of success. Could you benefit from advertising your business or service?
@anythingswindon
The Anything Swindon magazine is now working with The woodland Trust, Supporting the campaign to protect precious ancient woods by supporting the ones that are damaged and fight for those under threat. Established in 1972, the Woodland Trust is the UK’s largest woodland conservation charity. Over the last 40 years or so, we have acquired more than 1,000 woodland sites covering over 20,000 hectares (50,000 acres). The Woodland Trust is a charity registered in England and Wales (No. 294344) and in Scotland (No. SC038885).
Anything Swindon Magazine is Swindon’s most cost-effective marketing platform with rates as low as £30.00 per month achieving an estimated readership of more than 70’000 people of all ages across both paper and online e-magazine.
Where else could you reach 25’000 properties from £30.00 per month? Happy reading,
Graham and Ian. ANYTHING SWINDON
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HIGHWAYS Update OVERVIEW OF REDESIGNED JUNCTION
AERIAL PHOTOGRAPH OF M4 JUNCTION 16
Work to start on Junction 16 this month One of the world’s leading construction groups has been appointed as the contractor for the forthcoming multi-million pound transformation of Junction 16 of the M4. HOCHTIEF, which has its UK headquarters close to Junction 16 at Windmill Hill Business Park, was chosen as the preferred contractor following a recent tender process and initial work on the key highway interchange, including site surveys, office installation and clearance work will start by mid-October. Major construction work is due to start from the middle of next month. The project will cost approximately £11.5 million and is being funded by Swindon and Wiltshire Local Enterprise Partnership (SWLEP) and the Wichelstowe development. It is being delivered by Swindon Borough Council in partnership with Highways England and Wiltshire Council. The redesign of the motorway junction is being carried out to ensure it can cope with both future traffic levels and housing development in the surrounding area. Approximately 5,500 vehicles an hour currently use Junction 16 at morning and evening peak times PAGE 06
and this is expected to rise by more than 50 per cent over the coming years. The work will see the roundabout altered and slip roads widened. The traffic signals will also be replaced and improvements will be made to the junction’s drainage. Some of the vegetation around the junction has already been removed in recent weeks prior to the start of the major works. Cllr Dale Heenan, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Sustainability and Transport, said: “Now we have appointed HOCHTIEF as the contractor, the work on the much needed improvements to Junction 16 can start in earnest. “The Council is committed to improving the road infrastructure across the borough to ensure there is increased capacity in place before major housing developments are built. This scheme is part of our five-year strategic highways improvement programme, which will benefit not just people in Swindon, but those living in Wiltshire and visitors to the town. “HOCHTIEF was awarded the contract following a rigorous tender process and has an excellent track record of delivering major highways projects across the country. The fact Junction 16 is on
the doorstep of the company’s headquarters also adds some additional local interest to the project.” Sally Cox, HOCHTIEF’s Managing Director, said, “We are delighted to be working with Swindon Borough Council, Highways England and Wiltshire Council to deliver these important improvements which will have a positive impact on the local area. “We will work closely with Swindon Borough Council to keep road users and the local community informed about the project.” Further details about the scheme can be found at: www.swindon.gov.uk/junction16 Anyone who would like to receive the latest news relating to the Junction 16 upgrade can subscribe to the Council’s Highways News newsletter by visiting: www.swindon.gov.uk/newsletter
Council has preparations in place ahead of winter season Sixteen hundreds tonnes of salt is being held in reserve should freezing temperatures hit the borough over the coming months. The salt which has been put aside by Swindon Borough Council is enough to treat the town’s priority routes 40 times. Last year, the Council treated the priority routes 26 times using approximately 1,000 tonnes of salt. An additional 1,000 tonnes of salt is on provisional order for early in the new year should the weather deteriorate throughout the winter. A team of 16 drivers and eight gritting lorries will be on stand-by 24 hours a day to grit the priority routes which cover 280 miles of the borough’s 520-mile road network. The council has also checked the borough’s 474 grit bins, and those that need filling or replacing will be attended to before the end of the month. Depending on the severity of the weather, up to 125 employees could also be deployed to grit pavements. The Council’s Homeline service, which assists elderly and vulnerable people, also has 4x4 vehicles so it can respond to emergencies in adverse weather. The service has a 4x4 Response Protocol whereby multi-agency support,
including the voluntary sector, is available to assist in emergencies. The Council has emergency planning procedures in place and staff in many service areas will also be placed on standby in the event of severe weather. Cllr Keith Williams, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for StreetSmart, said: “We start preparing for winter well in advance as we need to make sure we have the correct contingencies in place.” “We believe we have a sufficient quantity of salt in reserve, but as we are at the mercy of the weather we have allowed for additional reserves should we need it.”
“Our winter preparations extend beyond the highway, however, as we need to ensure we have staff ready to respond around the clock and keep our vulnerable residents safe in adverse weather.” Further information on how to stay safe in an emergency or during adverse weather is available at: wiltshireandswindonprepared.org.uk
Essential resurfacing planned for school holidays Two busy Swindon junctions will be closed to traffic during October half-term to allow essential resurfacing to take place. Wootton Bassett Road and Kingsdown Crossroads have been on Swindon Borough Council’s Highways repairs list for the past two years, but work to resurface both junctions was put on hold to allow other significant works to take place across the borough including the remodelling of Bruce Street Bridges and SSE’s cabling upgrade in the Kingsdown area. The work has been scheduled to take place during the school holidays to minimise the impact on motorists.
Wootton Bassett Road will be resurfaced from the bowling green to Kingshill roundabout and include parts of Westcott Place and Kingshill. Contractors will start the carriageway repairs on Monday, 24 October and work is expected to finish on Friday, 28 October. The road will be closed between 8am and 6pm each day and the work is scheduled to take place before the forthcoming scheme to transform Junction 16 of the M4 gets fully underway. Kingshill will be closed at Bath Road, and Westcott Place will be closed at the roundabout by Park Lane and Faringdon Road. Access to residents will be maintained and will be managed by the contractor on site. Kingsdown Crossroads, which encompasses the junction with Hyde Road, Kingsdown Road and Beechcroft Road, will be closed from Monday, 24 October. The work is expected to last for three days. The junction will be closed for the duration of the works as there is insufficient space to safely undertake the works and maintain any form of through traffic. The resurfacing, as in the case of
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Wootton Bassett Road, cannot be carried out overnight due to nearby residential properties. Motorists are advised to avoid both junctions during this period and to allow more time for their journeys. Advanced warning signs have been put out ahead of the work and diversions will be in place. Two diversion routes have been set up for traffic that would ordinarily use Wootton Bassett Road. Motorists heading in the direction of Old Town should go via Redposts Drive, Blackhorse Way, Croft Road, Devizes Road and Bath Road. Drivers who would normally head into Swindon town centre via Westcott Place should use a diversion route of Great Western way, Bruce Street Bridges, Kemble Drive and Park Lane. Anyone whose route encompasses Kingsdown Crossroads should use a circular route utilising the A419, Swindon Road, Gypsy Lane, Cirencester Way and Cricklade Road. Jason Humm, Swindon Borough Council’s Head of Highways and Transport, said: “The various teams within Highways always aim to plan works effectively so we minimise disruption as much as we possibly can, which is why these works have been programmed in during the quieter school holiday period. “We have deliberately kept these two schemes on hold because of the major projects that have been taking place in the town over the last two years, but the carriageways have deteriorated to such an extent that we cannot wait any longer. “The work to transform Junction 16 of the M4 will also get into full swing next month so it is important the Wootton Bassett Road repairs are done now. “We appreciate the resurfacing projects will inconvenience people for a short period while the road surface is improved, but we just ask that motorists bear with us for a few days while these repairs are carried out.” For information on upcoming works affecting Swindon’s road network subscribe to Highways News via: www. swindon.gov.uk/newsletter
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New Appointment! Carpeo appoints new CEO ahead of expansion He takes over at the helm of Carpeo as the business aims to build on its rapid growth of recent years and pursue new opportunities in previously untapped markets.
Customer contact company Carpeo has appointed a new chief executive to lead it through a period of projected growth and expansion into new sectors. The Swindon company, which employs up to 337 people at peak times of the year, has announced Mike Minahan as its new CEO. He joins the business from motoring services giant, RAC, where he was sales and service director. Prior to that he spent seven years working at professional services and business processing group Capita, culminating in his role as COO of its insurance arm. He is also a current board-member of the Wales Contact Centre Forum.
Director David Williams said: “It is a real coup for Carpeo to be able to attract someone of Mike’s experience and talent. We have seen significant growth over the past few years, and we’re now at the point where Mike can take us on to the next level in terms of scope and capability. “His knowledge of running a large business will be of great value as we roll out our expansion plans over the next couple of years. Mike is a great fit; we’re an entrepreneurial company and he’s a rare breed who has a corporate background with entrepreneurial talent.” Mike added: “This is a very exciting time for Carpeo and I’m delighted to have the opportunity to lead it on the next phase of its growth. I’m really excited to be joining Carpeo. As a client I experienced the great results that Carpeo’s
fabulous culture and operational capability bring. There are some strong foundations that I will build on as we forge ahead with our ambitious plans.” Carpeo represents some of the biggest blue-chip clients in the education, automotive, insurance, logistics, restaurants and hospitality, energy and retail sectors. The Company has a variable workforce in response to client needs and, at its peak in Summer 2016, had a total of 337 staff. It was established in 2008’s recession and has doubled revenues year on year since 2012 by partnering clients and challenging them to think and work smarter in customer contact. Its services are delivered with the support of innovative cloud-based CRM technology. For more information visit http://carpeo.com/. Twitter: CarpeoLtd
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Drove Vets Surviving Fireworks! The firework season may go with a bang for you and your family, but it is estimated that approximately 60% of pets become stressed and fearful. There are many quick and simple steps pet owners can follow to prepare in advance for the firework season and ensure that the experience is as stress free as possible. Getting used to fireworks is very important and many pets can be successfully helped by using desensitisation CD’s such as Fear of Fireworks or Crash Bang Wallop, available from many veterinary surgeries. We would always recommend that you start several weeks before the event, gradually increasing the volume and playing time, taking the opportunity to associate the sound of fireworks with their favourite things in life. Make sure that you reward them and praise them as normal for their good behaviour paying no attention or reacting yourself to the noise of the fireworks playing on the CD. Natural products such as Zylkene are clinically proven to reduce anxiety and can be administered the day before fireworks start. DAP diffusers (Dog Appeasing Pheromone) or Feliway diffusers (for cats) can also be used releasing calming pheromones providing your pet with reassurance and comfort in challenging situations. Make sure that you plug the diffuser in where your pet rests for about two weeks before you start the desensitisation work, and then keep it going.
On the evenings you expect fireworks, make sure that your pet is safely inside ensuring all your windows and doors are secure, you may also want to consider microchipping your pet before the fireworks start because if they do escape a frightened or confused animal can easily get lost. Walk your dog earlier in the day prior to the evening and the commencement of the fireworks, we would advise you draw the curtains to reduce the noise from the outside, play music or have the TV on to help mask the noise of fireworks and providing a den you will create a safe, comfortable and quiet area for them should they need it. You know your pet better than anybody and will often notice changes in behaviour in traumatic situations, such as bonfire night.
During the firework season many pets can become stressed, symptoms can include: Dogs • Trembling and shaking • Clinging to owners • Barking excessively • Cowering and hiding behind furniture • Trying to run away • Soiling the house • Pacing and panting • Refusing to eat Cats • Cowering and hiding behind or on top of furniture • Trying to run away • Soiling the house • Refusing to eat Please don’t punish your pet, this only confirms that there is something to be afraid of. If possible don’t go out while the fireworks are going off, as seeing you acting normally will help them feel more settled. It is vital that you ignore any fearful behaviour and do not try to comfort them as they will pick up on your anxiety and this may make the problem worse. Fussing a pet that appears frightened can reward and encourage this behaviour in the future. If you have any worries or concerns please do not hesitate to contact your local vet.
24 HR EMERGENCY SERVICE TELEPHONE: (01793) 522483
www.drovevets.co.uk PAGE 10
DOGS OF THE MONTH This month we are going to feature 2 DOGS OF THE MONTH – PIP and GIZMO who are looking for special homes!
Registered Charity No. 1163257 SNDogs (Saving Needy Dogs)
SNDOGS update Wow …. Drum roll …… up to the middle of September we have now re-homed over 70 dogs! Back in the summer we were approached by Haydon Wick Football Club who chose SNDogs as their Charity of the Year for the 2016/17 season – the SNDog logo is now on each of the HWFC team shirts! The official launch of the new kit was 10th September against Old Town FC – SNDogs would like to say a big THANK YOU to HWFC for promoting them and raising awareness of the Charity in this way.
We would also like to THANK EVERYONE who drops off donations to Eastcott Vets, Drove Vets and Vets Klinic and Big Yellow Storage – each and every item you donate helps us look after the dogs in our care – whether it be a dog bed, toys, food, lead, collar – and the dogs really appreciate the donations too! Back in June SNDogs took part in the Wroughton Carnival Parade and we were invited back to Wroughton in September to receive a cheque from the Wroughton Carnival Committee - pictured is Bev who adopted SNDog Larry and Lesley who adopted SNDog Marlena (now Missy) who both live in Wroughton - many many thanks to the Committee for the donation. n
Big Yellow Self Storage in Drakes Way are now an official drop off point for donations and at the beginning of September Mel, Tom & Michelle under-took a four day fundraising event to raise money for SNDogs to purchase ‘Yellow Adopt Me’ coats which our dog scan wear out at events.
Little PIP is possibly a Yorkie X, She has had a hard life, she was found living with a hoarder. Pip is 90% blind - she had some treatment, but due to having Dry eye ( not able to produce enough tears) her eyes had got dry and had scratches on them, the scratches are permanent and block her vision. She will need on going gel putting in her eyes four times a day and drops every so often. She would like a home without children as they are loud and scary and not too many other pets.
Gorgeous GIZMO is around 8 years old, loves people and other dogs – Gizmo is about 80% deaf. Although he only has one and half ears plus a quirky tail; it points to the left - how could you say no to his face. A gentle boy who is happy walking just in front of you and exploring smells. Gizmo doesn’t seem bothered by children and so could live with children. He does seem very interested in cats and so we don’t think he would be suitable to live with any.
Up and Coming SNDog Events: 15th October Swindon Street Collection 10am – 2pm 15th & 16th October Charity ‘Pot Party’ at Lush, Swindon 9am – 5pm 29th October Dog walk around Coate Water 10.30am – 12 noon
Please visit www.sndogs.uk for the full list of events
The staff ran 4 marathons in 4 days and were undeterred by the running machine blowing a fuse on the first day – the staff completed their individual marathons by running around the car park and hogging a running machine for 2 – 3 hours each day at Nuffield Gym, Greenbridge. Pictured are Tom (Manager) and Mel and adopted SNDog – Kate (minutes before the fuse blew with a puff of smoke!)
If you can give PIP or GIZMO a home please email: sndrescue@gmail.com
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Win four tickets to a Film of your choice! Visit our competition page on page 25 for more information PAGE 12
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Inside I’m Smiling For the past 15 years, I have found it so hard to smile my true smile, at the age of 25 I started to suffer from Bruxism which is a medical term for grinding your teeth.
While in with Mark describing my history of visits to the dentist and also my extreme lack of visits to the dentist, I started to become more relaxed and my anxiety quickly was forgotten.
Bruxism affects people in different ways; People sometimes grind their teeth without it causing any symptoms or problems. But regular, persistent teeth grinding can cause jaw pain and discomfort and wear down your teeth.
Mark having completed is painless check-up of my teeth then went on to explain that my teeth despite the wear were actually in good condition and described to me the dental plan required to put a smile back on my face.
In my case I would often wake up in the morning with pieces of teeth in my mouth and It can also cause headaches and earache. Of course, I smiled before I had bruxism, but for the past 15 years I have been self-conscious about my teeth, it is now always a guarded sort of smile. A small smile. A turned-way smile. A smile turned into a giggle so I could put my hand over my mouth.
I came away from my first appointment feeling very positive although not completely calm about the future procedures that were needed to complete my smile.
Add this to a fear of the dentist, and here I am 15 years later with no smile and a mouth full of chipped teeth from back to the front. Now it is time to put a smile back on my face, I recently spoke with Stuart Miles of Smiles and described to him my fears of the dentist and my problem over the years with Bruxism.
It is a strange fear which is indescribable, is it through my own experience that I hate the dentists or is it the stories you read and hear, or is it just other people’s bad experiences being exaggerated that stick with us when the subject of the dentist comes up? I really wasn’t sure, but at this point, the door was the most appealing thing in the surgery.
As part of this diary of dental work we have arranged for the work to be filmed and streamed live through social media at each appointment so people could experience for themselves exactly what I am going through. Jess has promised to not only hold the camera but also to hold my hand throughout.
He explained to me that visiting the dentist doesn’t need to be a concern and that there are some fantastic dental technicians that work with you in the chair to ensure that you are comfortable at all times. Stuart invited me along to Smiles in Stratton to meet with Mark, a very experienced dental technician who would make me feel so comfortable I would not have a worry in the world. Yeah right!!! With apprehension and fear I turned up for my check up and sat nervously in the waiting room reading the most recent copy of the Anything Swindon magazine (available in all good surgeries and pick up points across Swindon).
Before I left, I had to make arrangements to visit Julie, the hygienist who I then visited the following week, this time, whilst sat in the waiting room at Smiles I was met by Jess for a quick chat before I was due to meet with Julie.
While in with Julie the hygienist she explained the process of the treatment she would carry out, Dental hygienists are specially trained to work as part of the dental team, to give care to patients.
And then your name is called, and now I have to make a choice…. Cover my smile or try and work through the process of dental work. The choice was simple I needed to see Mark and try and be brave.
Causes of Dental Anxiety & Phobia People develop dental anxieties and phobias for many different reasons. When researchers interview patients, however, a few common themes emerge. Pain — In a survey of people who had not seen a dentist for 12 months, 6% reported fear of pain as the main reason. The fear of pain is most common in adults 24 years and older. This may be because their early dental visits happened before many of the advances in “pain-free” dentistry. Feelings of helplessness and loss of control — Many people develop phobias about situations — such as flying in an airplane — in which they feel they have no control. When they’re in the dental chair, they have to stay still. They may feel they can’t see what’s going on or predict what’s going to hurt. It’s common for people to feel helpless and out of control, which may trigger anxiety. Embarrassment — The mouth is an intimate part of the body. People may feel ashamed or embarrassed to have a stranger looking inside. This may be a particular problem if they’re self-conscious about how their teeth look. Dental treatments also require physical closeness. During a treatment, the hygienist’s or dentist’s face may be just a few inches away. This can make people anxious and uncomfortable. Negative past experiences — Anyone who has had pain or discomfort during previous dental procedures is likely to be more anxious the next time around.
Julie plays an important part in dental health care, and her main concerns are with preventive dental health and treating gum disease - showing you correct home care and helping to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
to clean and brush them as regular as you should, and this was apparent with my teeth.
may have already happened by the time you read this so don’t forget to check the Smiles Facebook page for the video.
This part of the dental plan was actually okay and despite the scraping and pulling I was very pleasantly surprised at the results.
I don’t mind sharing with you that my teeth were heavily stained and that they had a huge build-up of plaque but with just one sitting with Julie the plaque was removed and the staining on my teeth was almost non-existent, and it was painless!!!
My teeth for many years have been a topic of no discussion and even my wife who I have been with for 13 years has never seen in my mouth….until now!! I am proud of the improvements already made from just two visits to Smiles, and I have not felt any pain YET!!!
The thing is like many people in my situation when you stop caring for your teeth you just stop making it a priority
My next appointment as part of my dental plan is to have an extraction, so the next diary may not be as positive. This
Check in next month and see my next instalment until then KEEP SMILING!!! Or contact Smiles.
BOOK IN TODAY FOR YOUR FREE MEET & GREET APPOINTMENT At the Smiles Centre we meet patients with dental phobias and fears everyday. This is mainly due to bad experiences and general fear of needles and drills. Some patients feel slightly emabarrassed too because they have put off coming for check ups in the past, and believe their teeth are unsalvageable! Our Team are here to help you overcome your fears, help restore your confidence in your smile and take care of your oral health step by step, giving you back your perfect smile. Robert: “I went on Saturday for an extraction, must apologise to the dentist for hitting her when she was injecting me, she was very understanding tho, after that she pulled my tooth out without me realising so got to say it was a good experience and will be making an appointment for regular check ups, just have to learn to calm down with the injections”
Emma: “You guys were amazing for me last year and some of you saw the state I was in. Still don’t particularly like dentists but I’m not scared as much anymore”
3 Beechcroft Road, Swindon, Wiltshire SN2 7RD Tel: 01793 200220 www.smilescentre.co.uk ANYTHING SWINDON
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PAGE 15
Community News Sarah Young’s Cyber Crime Update ATM fraud
As with many elements of cyber crime, fraudsters are always trying to come up with new ways to find out people’s bank account details when they visit the cash point so that they can use that information to commit fraud. Whenever I visit an ATM I’m always surprised at the number of people that don’t take basic precautions to protect themselves from becoming a victim of fraud so this week I wanted to take the opportunity to explain how, with a few simple checks and some adjustments to the way you take money out, you can help to keep your information secure. It starts before you’ve even put your card in the machine and you should always be aware of your surroundings when withdrawing money – there may be a queue and people might be close by when you go to use the cash point. Be wary of people loitering nearby and don’t let anyone try and distract you. Criminals use a variety of ways to try and access your card details and PIN. For example they may put a skimming device in the card slot that copies the details from the magnetic strip on your card. •
•
Look at the cash machine for any loose fittings or things that might look like alterations on the machine (such as a loose keypad – this might be a fake keypad used to capture your PIN details. Report any suspicions you have to the operator of the ATM
Shielding your PIN is an absolute must, prying eyes may not just be physical people at the scene. Covering the keypad with one hand is simple and effective as fraudsters employ all sorts of ways to try and capture your PIN • • •
Are there any holes drilled in the machine that might hide a hidden camera? Are there mirrors on the machine which look like they shouldn’t be there? There have even been cases where iPods have been used to video people entering their PIN – used in conjunction with a skimmer, the criminals have all they need to go on a spending spree with your card details.
PAGE 16
The golden rule is that if you feel unsure or unsafe at an ATM, avoid the transaction altogether and walk away. But what if you put your card into the slot and then become suspicious? Well, you can always cancel the transaction without entering your details, if the machine doesn’t return your card to you, ring the bank or ATM company straight away, don’t leave the machine until you do – if you think criminals are in the vicinity call the police. Many card providers have a 24 hour telephone number printed on their card that you can call if your card is lost or stolen – put this in your phone and you’ll always have it to hand even if your card gets ‘swallowed’. Making these small adjustments can make a big difference in protecting yourself from fraud at the cash point, tell your friends and family and together we can continue to fight fraud.
British BID Accreditation Success for inSwindon The inSwindon Business Improvement District has been awarded an Industry Standard Accreditation from British BIDs – the professional industry body focused entirely on Business Improvement Districts. The successful endorsement underlines the quality of what the inSwindon BID is delivering in the town, and how the BID is operating in a way that stakeholders would expect. The British BIDs accreditation process provides an assessment of management and supervisory systems, and represents the industry standard to measure a BID’s quality management systems. By achieving accreditation, inSwindon BID stakeholders can be satisfied that the BID is well managed, has strong governance arrangements in place and that it complies with the Legislation and Regulations which govern it. Di Powell, inSwindon BID Manager Said:
Halloween at Roves Farm 22 -30 OCTOBER Make your own spooky Halloween decorations or carve your very own pumpkin at Roves Farm. Address: Sevenhampton, Highworth, Swindon, SN6 7QG Time: 10:00 Contact: 01793 763939 Wyvern Family Fun Day 29 OCTOBER A day of free events with character appearances, workshops and more Address: Wyvern Theatre, Swindon, SN1 1QN Time: 10:00 Contact: 01793 524481 Highworth Fireworks 04 November Fireworks and entertainment. Main display starts at 7.30pm Address: The Elms, Highworth, SN6 7DD Time: 6.30pm Contact: 01793 762602 Fireworks at Lydiard Park 05 November Organised by the Swindon & North Wiltshire Scouts with bonfire and live music! Address: Lydiard Tregoze, Swindon, SN5 3PA Time: 5.30pm Contact: 01793 770401
“We are delighted to have secured this status. Achieving this accreditation is an important milestone for us, as it measured our performance against recognised BID standards. It gives our members confidence that we have robust systems and processes in place to meet their objectives to deliver our business plan”. “Gaining accreditation recognises the efforts and commitment shown by the inSwindon BID team and Board of Directors and further highlights how to remain focused on our task of driving forward a strong town centre economy. We will continue to work hard to meet and exceed industry benchmarks.” Only 24 of the UK’s 220 BIDs currently hold the British BID accreditation. To find out more about the British BID Accreditation, please visit: www.britishbids.info/our-services/accreditation
Fireworks at Polo Ground 05 November The Swindon Lions Club are once again holding their annual fireworks display and funfair Address: Marlborough Road, Swindon. Time: 5.30pm Contact: 01793 770401 The Commonweal School Christmas Market 27 November 2016 Attractions/activities: a variety of crafts, gifts and produce stalls, Santa’s Grotto, café, festive music, raffle and tombola. Address: The Commonweal School, The Mall, Old Town, Swindon, Wiltshire, SN1 4JE Time: 11am - 4pm Contact: 01793 432373
The inSwindon BID Team Grant Hesketh, Di Bond, Rachael Youd, Di Powell, Sarah Clarke and Anthony Purcell
WYVERN THEATRE PANTOMIME CAST MEET AT CRICKLADE HOUSE BALLROOM TO LAUNCH THE STORY OF CINDERELLA The Wyvern Theatre’s pantomime cast, led by Ryan Thomas, met at Cricklade House Hotel to launch Cinderella on Monday 19 September. Salford-born Ryan burst onto television screens on Christmas Day in 2000 in the role of Jason Grimshaw in the iconic ITV soap Coronation Street, a role he has played for over 16 years to great acclaim. Best known for romantic storylines involving several of the Street’s beauties, Ryan left Weatherfield last month in an emotional departure following the death of his on-screen father. Cinderella marks Ryan’s Pantomime debut where he will star as Prince Charming. Ryan Thomas was joined at the pantomime launch by Swindon favourite David Ashley, who this year plays one of the Ugly Sisters, Louie Westwood who takes the role of the other Ugly Sister, and Victoria Farley who plays Cinderella. The Fairy Godmother worked her magic for the occasion so that Cinderella could arrive in style on her beautiful white-horse-drawn carriage.
Produced by One From The Heart in association with HQ Theatres, the partnership behind previous record-breaking pantomimes at the Wyvern, Cinderella will be brought spectacularly to life with an abundance of comedy, sensational song and dance numbers, fabulous costumes and stunning scenery. Standing in over 30 acres of peaceful, secluded grounds on the edge of the Cotswolds, the privately-owned Cricklade House offers a traditional, warm and friendly welcome for those in search of tranquillity, comfort, good food and wine, with extensive recreational facilities. The glamorous Ballroom has its own private garden, making it the ideal location for weddings and other functions, and the perfect backdrop for a pantomime Prince and Princess. Ryan Thomas will star as Prince Charming in Cinderella at the Wyvern Theatre, Swindon from Sat 10 December 2016 - Sun 8 January 2017. Book tickets today at swindontheatres.co.uk or by calling the Ticket Office on 01793 524 481.
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Kentwood The choir with a difference
PRESENTS CHRISTMAS CRACKER
Don’t miss your annual start to the Christmas festivities.
A wonderful extravaganza of songs, laughs and seasonal favourites featuring the Kentwood Show Choir, Kentwood Youth Choir, Aldbourne Band, Young classical pianist Kimberly Mok and Jazz Trombonist Ian Bateman.
Wyvern Theatre Sunday 27 November 2016 at 6:30pm
Tickets: £15 Ticket Office: 01793 524481
Kentwood 'The Choir With A Difference' are proud to support the Swindon & District branch of Parkinson’s UK. Designed and Printed by Screaming Media Ltd For more information or to book tickets please call the booking line on 01793 524481 or visit swindontheatres.co.uk PAGE 20
Forest Holidays
Enjoy the colours of Autumn in the forest this October.
In fact, in a recent survey carried out by Forestry Commission England, it was revealed that a staggering 96% of people said that beautiful autumn colours improve their mood. With this in mind, The Forestry Commission started their ‘Colour Me Happy’ campaign, whereby people are encouraged to embrace the stunning colours of autumn and explore some of the best walks nature has to offer. As part of their ‘Colour Me Happy’ campaign, they have named their top ten walks to boost your mood before the winter months, and Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire, took the number 1 slot. Forest of Dean is one nine of Forest Holidays’ enchanting locations. Why not get away to the forest for a weekend this October? With nine stunning locations to choose from, there are many options available. Prices start from £595 for 3 nights for 4 people at Cropton, Yorkshire on 21st October. (Subject to availability)
Forest Holidays’ luxury woodland cabins are the perfect choice for an autumn weekend getaway. Autumn, with its magical red, gold, and orange hues, is the highlight of the forest year. Wrap up and watch the forest come alive at this special time of year, with special “Autumn colours trails” led by Forest Rangers. Look out for woodland animals whilst hunting for mushrooms and berries amongst the rich colours. As the day comes to a close, with the tang of winter in the air, enjoy the warm glow of a woodburner or the luxury of stargazing from your personal hot tub. Jill Grinstead, Sales and Marketing Director at Forest Holidays, said: “The autumn is a wonderful time to visit the forest with the changing colours and crisp days making for a stunning setting for walks, cycling and getting out and about. “Our nine locations showcase the autumn colours and offer a great way to escape from everyday life and to enjoy the changing seasons with friends, family or loved ones. “To help you to enjoy the new season, our Forest Rangers are running special ‘Autumn Colours Trails’ and are eager to share their woodland knowledge with you, Plus, our Golden Oak cabins come complete with log burner and fluffy robes for cosy evenings inside.”
To check some details before you book or for cabin availability for your preferred dates, please call us on 03330 110 495, Monday-Friday, 0830-1730 hrs or, for immediate live availability, please visit our website at www.forestholidays.co.uk
Ask AMS
Advice for small businesses AMS Accountancy Ltd. 01793 818400
My business partner spent the profits from our business – am I now responsible for the debts? If your business is a Partnership, not a Limited Company or a Limited Liability Partnership (LLP), all partners are “jointly and severally liable” for the Partnership debts. If there are no Partnership funds for the bills, creditors can chase you personally for the money – even though your partner took it out of the business. In a Limited Company or a Limited Liability Partnership, you would not be liable for these debts. Here, the monies and assets would be owned by the business itself. Exceptions: loans with a personal guarantee and trading while insolvent or fraudulently. www.ask-ams.co.uk @AMSAccountancy www.ams-accountancy.co.uk
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www.swindonnightshelter.org.uk
We are a Christian run charity serving those who are homeless, vulnerable and struggling in our area by providing a Night Shelter. We also work with local supermarkets and other businesses in Swindon, to collect and distribute Charitable Waste to those who need it. We currently support over 30 charities and other services as well as individuals in need Find out more at:
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Win 4 tickets to a Family film of your choice! To win the tickets, please tell us who is the main star in the new Jack Reacher film? There is a clue on the Empire movie update on page 12. Please email your answer to us at win@anythingswindon.co.uk
Closing date for the competition is the last day of October 2016
Win 2 tickets to see The Swindon Wildcats! To win the tickets, Who are Swindon Wildcats playing on Sat 12 November 2016? There is a clue on the page below. Please email your answer to us at win@anythingswindon.co.uk
Closing date for the competition is the last day of October 2016
Congratulations to the following winners of last months competitions!
Empire Cinema Tickets! Raf Vitale Winner Ice Hockey Tickets! Sharon Hatherall Winner £20 Toys R Us gift voucher! Jack Singleton
UP AND COMING HOME FIXTURES: Check The Wildcats site for more info: swindonwildcats.com
Sat 22 Oct 5:45pm Swindon Ice Arena - EPIHL
Swindon Wildcats v Guildford Flames
Wed 26 Oct 7:45pm Swindon Ice Arena - EPIHL - Cup
Swindon Wildcats v Milton Keynes Lightening
Sat 29 Oct 5:45pm Swindon Ice Arena - EPIHL - Cup
Swindon Wildcats v Basingstoke Bison
Sat 12 Nov 5:45pm Swindon Ice Arena - EPIHL - Cup
Swindon Wildcats v Sheffield Steeldogs
Sat 19 Nov 5:45pm Swindon Ice Arena - EPIHL
Swindon Wildcats v Manchester Phoenix
WIN TICKETS TO THE WILDCATS! SEE ABOVE... ANYTHING SWINDON
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Churchfields Academy Logo
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Churchfields Academy Inspiring and Creating Futures For All
We are an 11-16 secondary in Old Walcot, Swindon We believe that within each child there is massive potential to achieve and that as teachers, it is our job to ensure that this potential is met through academic studies, creativity and a desire to believe in yourself.
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Tours can be set up at any time for students wishing to transfer from Primary or another Secondary Call 01793 487286 www.churchfields.org
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GardenRoomSwindon.co.uk Commercial grass cutting services also available.
BIG SWITCH-ON
WEEKEND We just can’t wait for the Christmas season to begin this year. As soon as the light switch on happens and the fireworks begin, something magical happens to the Swindon town centre. This year’s event will move from the traditional Thursday night to a weekend of free activities on 19th & 20th November 2016, launching Swindon’s Enchanted Christmas.
Ben Haenow said: “I am really looking forward to performing at the Swindon Christmas light switch-on. Can’t wait to see lots of happy faces singing along!”
Once again inSwindon BID Company, the Brunel Shopping Centre, The Parade and Regent Circus will be working in collaboration to create a truly magical Christmas for all the family. Kicking off the festive season on Saturday 19th November, there will be a huge range of FREE family activities across the Town Centre from 11am. Our Main Stage in Wharf Green will be live from 5:15pm. Wyvern Theatre The official ‘Switch On’ moment will take place at 6pm, illuminating the Town Centre, followed by a dramatic Firework Display (subject to weather conditions), sponsored by The Brunel Shopping Centre. “The weekend is a great way to get in the festive spirit and enjoy Christmas-themed activities,” said Di Powell, inSwindon BID Manager. “Swindon town centre is the perfect place to stock up on presents, be entertained, take part in free family activities, and get that Christmas feeling.”
Panto star RYAN THOMAS will switch on the town centre Christmas lights as part of an extended weekend of celebrations, which will also bring X-Factor winner BEN HAENOW to Wharf Green.
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Christmas in the town centre doesn’t end there. On Sunday 20th November our main stage will be ‘LIVE’ from 12pm and you can see the amazing Britain’s Got Talent dance sensations BOOGIE STORM - courtesy of the Brunel Shopping Centre. PLUS you will be able to take advantage of a whole host of free activities for all the family to enjoy and to add a little oomph to the celebrations this year, inSwindon will be holding a lantern procession where Schools and Colleges will be invited to join in the spectacular display and children will have the opportunity of creating their very own multi-coloured lanterns on the day. Every weekend throughout December, Swindon’s Enchanted Christmas will see plenty of free events going on in the town centre to get everyone in the festive mood.
WATCH THIS SPACE! We still have some more exciting surprises up our sleeve and ask everyone to stay up to date on the inSwindon Facebook: www.facebook.com/inSwindon/ Twitter: www.twitter.com/inSwindon Website: www.swindontowncentre.co.uk/ christmas/
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Anything Swindon catch up with Robert Buckland Conservative MP for South Swindon.
Over recent months, Swindon Borough Council has been asking local residents for their views on the future of the library service.
Robert Buckland MP calls for help with popular Swindon event!
A series of drop-in events have taken place across the town and I have met with campaigners, discussed the issue on the doorstep with residents and also discussed the issue with Council Cabinet Member Cllr Mary Martin to help work out the best way forward.
Robert Buckland MP is calling for help to make sure that one of Swindon’s most popular events continues to take place.
A number of constructive suggestions are being made. For example, Library staff have worked on a proposal that involves setting up a trust, which I think is an excellent idea.
Event organisers have been forced to cancel the Swindon Mela in the past due to not having enough volunteers to organise the event, but it was once named as one of the best Mela’s in the UK and described by The Times newspaper as one of the best free events in the UK in 2007. Event Organiser, Sonny Hamid explained: “The Swindon Mela is a showcase for South Asian art, culture and food and has been a regular annual event since 2002. It is the South West’s largest and most established event of this kind and one of the most successful attracting over 20,000 people at the 2013 event. “
I attended a consultation drop in at Old Town Library and support its continuance. I have also been liaising with Borough and Parish Councillors about Wroughton Library and believe that a solution can be found that can ensure its future too. Our libraries are places to borrow and read books, gain access to the Internet, work quietly or meet friends. In short, they are at the heart of our communities. Swindon’s library service is an extremely good one, and I will do all that I can to help ensure that even with changes, a quality service can continue.
ANYTHING SWINDON
“The Mela provides many benefits to Swindon from community cohesion, showcasing local performing and creative artists to proving economic benefits. The event helped to put Swindon on the map in 2007 when it was named as one of the top Mela’s in the country.” To ensure that the event is able to continue, the Swindon Mela Project Team need as many people as possible to volunteer their help in various roles. These include sales and marketing, medical, health and safety, food hygiene, programme sellers, legal advisors, light goods transport and many more. For further information about the event and to find out how you can help, please contact Sonny Hamid on 01672 811 933 or 07767 618 919.
“The event is organised by the Swindon Mela Project Team who are all volunteers. The effort required to stage and organise such a huge event is considerable and we are constantly seeking volunteers and supporters.” “Project Team Members would be delighted to address any commercial and community groups and deliver a stand-up presentation, if required, on the Mela, how we plan and manage the event and what skills and resources are required for the benefit of the Mela.” Robert Buckland MP said: “The Swindon Mela is a fantastic local event that has been taking place in the Old Town Gardens over the past fourteen years.
WWW.ANYTHINGSWINDON.CO.UK
Twitter: @robertbuckland Facebook: facebook.com/robertbucklandmp
Or you can contact my Swindon Office: Tel: 01793 533393 Email: robert.buckland.mp@parliament.uk
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