1
NOTE FROM THE EDITORS
INSIDE THE JANUARY ISSUE
With Christmas and the New Year already a distant memory, we look forward to Valentine ’s Day and Pancake tossing this February……..
04
In this issue we visit The Door Installer on location at his most recent installation. Graham visits the Gone in a Flash Studio to go under the laser for a tattoo removal.
05
MP Justin Tomlinson speaks about the Regency Circus development and the opening of some great new locations on the site. We have some fantastic competitions to win cinema tickets and family tickets to the Swindon Wildcats. Jessica Cook of Studio J talks to us about her recent fundraising event. We have our regular updates from your local councillors. We have an update from Keith Mayo as the Swindon based Boxing promoter, he believes his February 13th show at the Oasis Leisure Centre will be the best boxing spectacle the town has ever seen. David Miles of Swindon’s Safe and Warm Scheme highlights the benefits of home insulation. Enjoy our February issue of Anything Swindon we look forward to hearing from you with your local news and events in the build up to our March issue.
Happy reading! Graham & Ian
WHAT’S ON? Stuck for something to do? Check out the what’s on section for ideas.
SWINDON FILMAKERS Local Film makers put Swindon on the map.
07 08
COMPETITION PAGE New competitions and also an update on some of our prev winners.
STUDIO J Awards Evening
09
PETS AND MORE Drove vets provide more valuable advice,
10
PROSPECT UPDATE Andrew Thompson from the Prospect Hospice updates us on their plans for 2015
12
COUNCILLOR UPDATES The latest in what’s happening from your local councillor’s.
13
MP UPDATES The latest in what’s happening from your local mp’s.
16
EMPIRE SWINDON MOVIE NEWS! Whats new at the Movies this January
22
PROPERTY SECTION An update from your local Estate Agents.
27
SPORTS Our monthly check in with SCOB plus Keith Mayo presss release
Follow us on Social Media: facebook.com/anythingSwindon @anythingswindon
Ed: Ian E: ian@screamingmedia.co.uk Ed: Graham E: graham@screamingmedia.co.uk Advertising: Telephone 01793 977117 Design: Screaming Media Ltd Artwork: Screaming Media Ltd Print: Screaming Media Ltd www.screamingmedia.co.uk Readership: 50,000 Circulation: 21,000
Whats On?
..................................................................................................................................................................................................................... Andy Parsons at Wyvern Theatre: Star of Mock The Week and Live at the Apollo comes to Swindon Wyvern Theatre, Swindon. Wednesday 18 February 2015, 8.00pm ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................... Self Build Educational Tour at National Self Build & Renovation Centre Saturday 14 Feb 2015 National Self Build & Renovation Centre ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................... Join a rock choir with singing tuition. St Andrews church Raleigh, Friday 7.30 no age limit just strong singers willing to have fun tel 07913816245 Registered professional tutor ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................... It’s back and it’s bigger than before! The Vintage & Retro Festival returns on Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th March.We have vintage stalls, the Demon Drome Wall of Death, vintage and custom cars and bikes plus fashion shows, live music and make-up and hair demonstrations. Bring your Mum along on Mother’s Day to meet our cheeky 1950’s gossipy housewives, enjoy lunch in Boswell’s Café Diner and listen to the music. Saturday Night – Live Music from The Excellos and Lew Lewis & the Twilight Trio. Licensed bar available and Boswell’s Café will be serving their Diner menu. Tickets are £8 per person available from the Centre Management Office, Upper level The Plaza, adjacent to Plaza Pets or phone 01793 525857
UP AND COMING HOME FIXTURES:
Check The Wildcats site for more info: swindonwildcats.com
Sun 01st Feb: vs Chelmsford Warriors, 7.30pm NIHL2 Cup Sat 07th Feb: vs Bracknell Bees, 6pm EPIHL Sat 14th Feb: vs Manchester Phoenix, 6pm EPIHL Wed 18th Feb: vs Milton K’nes Lightning, 7.45pm EPIHL KIDS GO FREE! 18th Feb 2015 Sat 21st Feb: vs Bristol Pitbulls, 6pm NIHL D2 South Sat 28th Feb: vs Bracknell Bees, 6pm EPIHL WIN TICKETS TO THE WILDCATS!
SEE PAGE 07 PAGE 4
Local News
FILM-MAKERS PUT SWINDON ON THE MAP Local film-makers are planning a series of monthly Networking Events to bring the talent in the town together with hopes of bringing the film industry to Swindon. When Alex Secker began working on films in his teens he had little to no contacts. In fact, all he had was a camera, some fake blood and a small group of friends. Armed with that and a determination he set out to become a film-maker. Flashforward 15 or so years and he’s running video production company 22six Productions and working on everything from the likes of music videos and corporate films, to shorts and web-series. Having come so far, Secker, 26, feels now is the time to give something back to the community. “When I was just starting out there was nothing in Swindon, nothing to help someone like me meet people or make connections or anything. It was just me and my camera. I had to do a lot of the legwork, I had to send out emails, knock on doors, call people up, that’s just the way it was. And, having started my own production company, I get a lot of contact from younger people who want to gain experience. I couldn’t help but think: “I was in your position not that long ago and I would’ve killed for the chance to meet people who could help me,” and that was, I guess, the seed of the idea.” The idea Secker is referring to is a Networking Event
designed to help people with an interest in filmmaking meet others with a similar interest.
logo gets slapped on the front. That’s not what we’re about. We don’t want to pressure you into making anything. It’s just about being able to meet people you might want to work with. Not people you have to work with. That’s no good. It’s just a casual thing, but if it works, then people will have collaborators. They’ll have the contacts to go and make their own projects.”
“The whole point is to be open,” Secker continues, “we want this to be a group for anyone and everyone. It’s free, that was very important for me, because when I was starting out I didn’t have money and so any event that charged entry was pretty much out of the question. It’s also available for people who have skills and experience just as much as people who don’t. We just want people to meet people. There’s so much talent in this town, so many great people out there, and they all have something great to offer.” To make the event a reality Secker called on friends and connections he has made from his time in the business.
Secker himself is no stranger to short films. He has made two to date under his 22six Productions label, and several others before the company started up. His most recent effort, Lullaby, a short written by location writer Jodie Patchett, was down to the last 15 in the London shorts festival.
The event will be free, like he mentions, and will be taking place in the bottom bar of The Victoria Bar on Victoria Hill in Swindon. It’s a suitable venue, out of the way from the regular punters, but central enough to the town that people from all around can come. The first event is taking place on Monday the 9th February at 7:00pm at the aforementioned location. “We’re planning monthly meets. And there’s no pressure, some networking groups also work on projects, everyone has to do their bit and then the
ANYTHING SWINDON
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“I fully intend to continue making shorts,” says Secker, “and I believe this event will be priceless to me, since I’ll meet people who will have skills I don’t. Hopefully that will be true of a lot of people. And once that happens then we’ll all be working on projects. The more projects on the go, the better for the town, right?” It’s certainly an exciting prospect, the next step for Secker is to set-up a local film-festival, then, who knows?
The sky’s the limit. Written by Jonathan Batstone
TEL: 01793 977117
PAGE 5
PAGE 6
Competitions Update
Congratulations to the following January 2015 issue winners: Cinema Comp Winner - Iana Ntontos... Well done! Wildcats Comp Winner - Ian Hopkins... Well done!
Win a Family ticket to a Family film of your choice! To win tickets, Jupiter Ascending from the Wachowski Brothers who also brought us the Matrix movie trilogy. Who played the charachter “Neo” in the Matrix movies? Email your answer to us at win@anythingswindon.co.uk Answer to be recieved by 20th Feb 2015.
Win tickets to see The Swindon Wildcats! To win the tickets, Who are Swindon Wildcats playing on Sat 21st Feb? Email your answer to us at win@anythingswindon.co.uk Answer to be recieved by 20th Feb 2015.
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TEL: 01793 977117
PAGE 7
Studio J
Studio J Academy of Dance First Annual Students Awards Evening
STUDIOJ Academy of Dance
On 20th December 2014, Studio J Academy of Dance held our first annual Awards Evening to celebrate our students success, hard work and development throughout the year. In order to make the event extra special, we decided that all the proceeds would go to Make-AWish Foundation. They grant magical wishes to children and young people fighting life-threatening conditions. Since being established in the UK in 1986, they have granted more than 8,000 wishes. There are currently 20,000 children and young people living in the UK with a life-threatening condition. And with our help, Make-A-Wish hope to make all of their wishes come true. All the proceeds from our awards evening went to this fabulous cause. Through ticket sales and generous donations on the night, we raised ÂŁ345.96. Thank you to all our parents and students for their donations. Studio J Academy of Dance opened in July 2014 and has gone from strength to strength. We offer a variety classes from ages 2 plus and also offer students the opportunity to take part in exams, local performance and competitions should they wish to. For more information, please contact Jess on 07415346998. www.studiojacademyofdance.co.uk
PAGE 8
Drove Pets Update
Inside Every
Fat Pet
...is a Thin Pet!
Pet Join o Slim ur mer s
It’s free to join & whilst they shed pounds you’ll save pounds too! 33% off Hill’s™ Prescription Diet™ Metabolic Advanced Weight Solution* FREE Pet Slimmers Weight Checks & Advice. Plus save another £10 & £5 with money off vouchers at www.drovevets.co.uk & Facebook. Tel: 01793 522483
If your pet needs to lose weight it is very important to seek veterinary assistance. Your vet can recommend an adequate diet for your pet’s particular situation and provide good advice on how you can get your pet to effectively lose weight in a healthy and safe way! If your pet needs help to shed his or hers extra pounds, please have a look at our Pet Slimmers campaign. We do our best to help you change your pet’s life for the better!
Vet Column by Drove Veterinary Hospital
Have a look at our website or our Facebook page for more information, helping you to ‘Save Pounds while they lose pounds’ ! www.drovevets.co.uk/hills-metabolic-promotion
If you need any further information then please contact your local Vetfor advice. 24 HR EMERGENCY SERVICE TELEPHONE: (01793) 522483 www.drovevets.co.uk
Dog lovers wanted: Welcome a dog into your home for his holiday!
Obesity and excessive weight gain have serious consequences on your pet’s health and a huge impact in your pet’s life! Sadly this is one of the most common conditions of companion animals and the number of affected pets keeps growing. Excessive weight causes general discomfort, fatigue and lethargy, as well as a number of problems that will diminish your pet’s quality of life such as breathing difficulties with exercise, heat intolerance, gastrointestinal problems, lowered resistance to infectious diseases, spinal problems, straining of joints and skin conditions due to the inability to groom. These pets will also have an increased risk of diabetes, cancer and anaesthetic complications if they ever need surgery. This problem will not only affect your pet’s ability to enjoy a healthy and happy life but studies have shown that obesity can decrease a pet’s lifespan by nearly two years! ANYTHING SWINDON
While owners are away you will give their dogs love,exercise and companionship within your family home. If you are at home all day, have no children under the age of six, have no more than one dog of your own and would like to enjoy the companionship of guest dogs please get in touch AWARD WINNING HOME DOG BOARDING
Give a dog a holiday! Where happy dogs holiday
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follow us twitter.com/WaggingTailsUK
TEL: 01793 977117
PAGE 9
Prospect Update
Prospect Hospice reveals full fundraising events programme for 2015 Prospect Hospice is calling on the support of the local community to sign up for one of the exciting fundraising events it will be putting on in 2015, with the publication of its events booklet which has been mailed to supporters in the new year. The charity, which will be 35 years old this year, has announced dates for its flagship Starlight Walk event in June and its annual Garden Fete in September, and added some new fundraising events designed to cater to the tastes of the broadest range of the local community. In the immediate future, the Prospect 10k – a demanding, cross-country running event – will be taking place on Sunday 22 February, and the more gentle and family friendly Walk of Memories on Sunday 15 March. Genevieve Arney, Prospect Hospice’s events fundraiser said: “Every year we develop a varied programme of events we think will appeal to as much of the local community as possible, to offer the opportunity for people to show their support for their local hospice in their own way. We have kept many of the old familiar favourites this year, but have added some new events we think will be very popular, such as Run the Rainbow in September, a fun 5km run where coloured powder paint is thrown at the runners so they finish rainbow coloured!”
She added: “We have already put details of our events programme online, and people can find out more details and even register for their chosen event by visiting www.prospect-hospice.net/ events now, even if the event they want to take part in is months away!” Prospect Hospice has also added a brand new fundraising initiative to its roster this year with the Belmond British Pullman experience in September, which offers luxurious dining in the sister train to the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express for which people can pay in advance in instalments.
For more details of Prospect Hospice’s fundraising events this year please visit website: www.prospect-hospice.net/supporter
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PAGE 10
In January I met with Hev Cooke, Laser Specialist and owner of “Gone in a flash”. After almost 20 years of regretting the embarrassing Tattoo on my upper left arm, I wanted to discuss the process of Tattoo Removal. For my consultation I met Hev at her studio at The Pavillion on Jennings Street in Rodbourne. Hev explained that Laser tattoo removal is a simple, safe and effective treatment that produces fantastic results.
understand that there will always be some pain in the removal process, however this was more an uncomfortable sensation than that of excruciating pain. This was rather a quick process and I am pleased to say it was over quite quickly. Within just 6 days you can see from the images below how much the Tattoo has altered in such a short time.
“The whole process usually takes several sessions to complete with regular intervals between each treatment” Hev also explained that lots of things can affect how easily a tattoo can be removed. The type of colour used, the size and the density of the design can all affect the removal process. I must admit that the idea of this procedure made me quite nervous, however as I arrived at the Studio I was made to feel relaxed. Hev explained the treatment process and what I was to expect from the first session. As we began Hev explained that if I felt uncomfortable in any way I should simply raise my right arm and she would stop until I was ready to continue. Anyone looking to have a tattoo removed must ANYTHING SWINDON
6 days after 1st treatment and not completely healed Each month I will bring you an update with images of my personal experience with this procedure. Call Hev Cooke today using the Contact information below and talk to her in more detail about “Gone In A Flash” Now Specialising in laser treatments including tattoo removal, permanent hair removal, thread/spider vein reduction, acne scar reduction and skin rejuvenation.
WWW.ANYTHINGSWINDON.CO.UK
TEL: 01793 977117
PAGE 11
Councillor Updates
Park South Are You Registered to Vote? It takes about 5 minutes at www.gov.uk/register-to-vote. You just need your National Insurance Number. The General Election & Local Election both take place on Thursday May 7th Park South Additional Parking - We welcome the new additional parking along Cranmore Avenue. Funding for this came from the housing department, Cranmore Avenue was identified due to the high number of requests for parking by council tenants. Got an issue? Come along to our surgery at the Shop, Cavendish Square, 10am Sat 7th Feb & March or Contact us on Tel 07952350656 – Email : leps@southswindonlabour.co.uk
Cllrs Derique Montaut, Fay Howard & Neil Heavens
Penhill Upper Stratton We have been approached on many occasions to find a solution to the parking for the shops at the Windbrook Meadow/ Ermin Street junction. Your local Councillors plan to hold a drop in and talk sessions at the Kingsdown Sports Centre, with a provisional date of February 24th, for consultation on this problem. There is re-surfacing work starting in Penhill, to address the poor road surfaces on the estate. We are pushing to have work starting in the Upper Stratton area on those roads that are in a really poor condition and have been neglected over the years. Your local Councillors are also aware of the speeding along Hyde Road by cars leaving the A419 past the Garden centre/Co-op store and are pushing for traffic calming along this stretch of road.
Cllr Joe Tray, Cllr Teresa Page & Cllr Paul Baker
Old Town Angel Ridge play area is now open. It has been much awaited. I am sure local residents will enjoy using this facility. The quality of design and landscaping is fantastic. The planning committee voted unanimously to refuse the application for a biomass burner at the Central Trading Estate. The application was retrospective, so there is the possibility of an appeal. I am pleased that I called it into planning and it was good to see so many local residents there. The Council operate a “buy with confidence” scheme to support legitimate businesses and to protect consumers in Swindon. More information can be found at http://www.swindon.gov.uk under business, trading standards.
Councillor Nadine Watts, Old Town, nadine.watts@live.co.uk Tel: 07595 071381
This month we have only received the comments shown and over the last few months have received comments that we support only one party! Anything Swindon is completely un-biased and welcome comments from all parties. All parties, please send your views to us at info@anythingswindon.co.uk To reach us no later than the 15th of the month, We will only be able to print updates that we receive by this date.
PAGE 12
Mp Update Regent Circus Update Wow! At the official opening of the 6 screen Cineworld cinema, we celebrated the completion of the £30m major regeneration project. This development includes: Nandos, Ask Italian, Gourmet Burger Kitchen, Prezzo, Coal Grill & Bar and the Morrisons supermarket. This is a major boost to help kick-start wider town-centre regeneration and I have no doubt will prove to be a very popular destination venue.
First Step On The Housing Ladder One of the biggest aspirations for people across this country is to be able to own their own home. I still remember the pride when I picked up the keys to my home in Taw Hill. Indeed owning a home provides millions of people in this country with a sense of security and independence. That’s why I am delighted that this Government has made it one of its main aims to give both current and future generations the chance to experience the benefits of owning their own home. Firstly, the Help to Buy scheme continues to present the chance for people to purchase their own home regardless of background, by increasing the supply of low-deposit mortgages, particularly first-time buyers. In Swindon this scheme has already helped more than 450 families and I am very proud of that. I have met many of these families and they are so grateful for the opportunity previously denied to them. Secondly, we have introduced a huge reform of Stamp Duty, the tax which applies to everybody when purchasing a home, was announced. The Chancellor explained that he would be changing this badly-designed tax by scrapping the slab system which distorted the market with big jumps in taxes when house values climbed into a new band. This announcement means a tax cut for 98% of people who buy a home, saving a staggering £4,500 when purchasing an average family home. This is a real boost for home owners, housing and construction industries right here in Swindon. If I can be of any assistance on any local or national issues: MPs Office, 1 Milton Road, Swindon SN1 5JE - 01793 533393 justin.tomlinson.mp@parliament.uk www.justintomlinson.com
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PAGE 13
PAGE 14
A day out with Mark from The Door Installer. Last month I was invited to join Mark on location to experience a day in the life of the Door Installer. With over 28 years’ experience Mark offers a vast range of entrance door’s, rear door’s, in many variations including Upvc, Aluminium, Hardwood and also composite door’s from the Solidor range. Mark explained that Solidor have been designing, engineering and manufacturing composite doors in the UK since 2004 and that their original doors still stand the test of time today. The collection is an outstanding range of industry leading, solid laminate timber core composite doors that combine classical, modern or futuristic styling with a full range of secure by design locking, providing a stunning, high quality and secure entrance to any home. Being on location gave me an insight into how Mark works first hand with his customer. While Mark completed the installation on the rear door, I spoke with Mr Poole at his home. “Mark made us feel confident in not only the product but also made us comfortable in his presence”. Mr Poole went on to say that at 70 years of age it is a daunting thing to invite a stranger to your home to discuss home improvements, having had bad experiences historically with a local Window Company we have been delighted with Marks work, and having seen the rear of the property transformed with the new back door, we can’t wait to see how the front will look.
booked in for a consultation with Mark and that he would highly recommend The Door Installer to anyone looking to replace their existing Doors. Mark is now booked in to fit new doors at my Isle of Wight Property, which will include a stable door at the rear, and will also replace the door on my garage here in Swindon. Why Choose The Door Installer? • • • • • • • • • • •
Insurance backed guarantee including deposit insurance Certass Regulated and No Sub-contract Fitters 36 Hardwood designs with natural finish or any Ral colour. 100 plus composite door designs including side screens and glass. Bifold and Stable door’s in hardwood, composite and upvc. French doors in hardwood or upvc. Patio doors Secure by Design hardware. Window installations also available. Abundant array of door furniture to compliment your home. Fire doors and internal doors.
You can be assured that your new door will transform your house, not only visually but securely.
Mr Poole also mentioned that his daughter had
Some Fantastic examples of The Door Installer’s previous installations. ANYTHING SWINDON
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PAGE 15
Movie News
WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN Win a Family ticket to a Family film of your choice! To win tickets, Jupiter Ascending from the Wachowski Brothers who also brought us the Matrix movie trilogy. Who played the charachter “Neo” in the Matrix movies? Answers by 20th Feb 2015.
Good Luck! PAGE 16
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TEL: 01793 977117
PAGE 17
Antiques, Furniture, Collectables & Sporting Memorabilia
WANTED
Entries for our forthcoming
AUCTIONS Appraisals can be arranged at our auction rooms or HOME VISITS BY APPOINTMENT
We have an extensive database of purchasers from all over the world and with live online bidding your item is exposed to the widest possible market.
01249 720888
wessexauctionrooms.co.uk Just off J17 of M4 Westbrook Farm, Draycot Cerne, Chippenham, Wilts, SN15 5LH
Antiques Furniture & Collectables Football & Sporting Toy Auction
Silver
with jewellery, gold & cabinet items
Stamps, Coins, Postcards, Film & Music
Antiques, Furniture, Collectables & Sporting Memorabilia
GOING... GOING... GONE !
Single items Full house clearance Deceased estates Free collection service Live online bidding
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ANYTHING SWINDON
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TEL:01793 977117
PAGE 19
The Thelounge lounge To celebrate the launch of The Lounge we have created this fantastic competition!
The Lounge Opening 01/02/2015
7 days a w�k
8:00am - 3:30pm *Sunday hours may vary
Serving you.... Traditional English breakfast’s Coffee’s English, Italian & Indian Lunch Classics 2 Hoopers Place, Old Town, Swindon, SN1 3RA
www.theasiana.com
01793 976500
Free coffee for a year!! Pop in & enter NOW for chance to win or you can enter by Emailing ‘I LOVE COFFEE’ with your name to info@theasiana.com
Terms apply & can be viewed @ www.facebook.com/asianaswindon
Your Advert Could be here
for only £50
PAGE 20
Churchfields Academy Logo
1.
2.
3.
Churchfields Academy A Passion for Excellence
Visit Us Come and see why Ofsted Graded us as Good in 2013 Tours can be set up at any time for students wishing to transfer from Primary or another Secondary Call 01793 487286 www.churchfields.org
Bible S
tories s e Gam Crafts Much
Free!
Holiday Bible Club
for primary aged children 30 March -2 April 10am-12:15pm For more details or to book a free place please ring or email ANYTHING SWINDON
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TEL:01793 977117
17–19 Devizes Road 01793 434630 hbc@swec.org.uk swec.org.uk
Charity No:1129912
PAGE 21
Property Section
Do your homework. Following on from my last article on maisonettes, where I strongly recommended that you do your homework, I have another example of how you can easily jump to the wrong conclusions. An experienced landlord, from North of the Boarder has recently shown an interest in growing their portfolio in the south of England and had chosen Swindon as being a good location to spread their wings. This is a wise choice judging by the current demand for rental properties within the Swindon postcode areas. Their only problem was not knowing the area, so location and what quality of properties to purchase was a challenge. After an initial conversation with us, we decided to look at three properties, all one beds, all within their price budget and within the Town centre, which is where they wanted to be. One in particular looked a great option. In fact when taking legal and agency fees into account it could still achieve a yield in excess of 8%, a great investment, on paper. Due to time restraints, myself and a college viewed the property on behalf of the landlord. What we found made me consider my initial advice and recommendations. The property only had rear access through an alleyway that did not present well. The surrounding area was also in need of attention and made the property look less desirable. Inside, the property had been fully refurbished and finished to a high standard. However upon closer inspection we could see signs of unexplained damp. I had to report back that the property would not necessarily be a good purchase and recommended that the landlord gave it a second consideration before making any offer. The lack of care to the surrounding area, which would be beyond landlord control, could put potential good tenants off, would affect the rental price and may have well lead to long void periods, all off which would affect the return on the investment. So the lesson of the story is, do your homework. Take a good detailed look at any property you may consider buying, look at the surrounding area; ask yourself ‘could I live here’. Always talk to you agent, they should understand the market and be able to offer good advice. Alternatively you can talk to me for complimentary advice on 01793 487760.
Property Section
OLD TOWN FOCUS Since the New Year, there has been a surge in applicants looking for 2 & 3 bedroom properties in the Old Town area. Always a popular venue, Old Town offers cosmopolitan living with Wood Street at its heart. The local shopping and nightlife are a must for local residents. Now is a great time to take advantage of our Free Valuation service. Just call Darron Bailey on 01793 618080 or email darron@chappells.uk.com
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The G2S Group reserve the right to withdraw any offer without prior notice. Photographs and illustrations are for illustrative purposes only, copyright belongs to the G2S Group. Finance available subject to status. Please ask for details. Many more styles and colours available. Worked finance example: Borrow £3,420.00 pay £44.22 per month for 120 months at 9.9% APR per month. Total amount payable £5,306.40 charge for credit £1,886.40. Representative APR 9.9%. Window prices are for white casement windows, each section of a bay window counts as one window. Maximum window size 2.4m x 1.5m. Offers cannot be used in conjinction with any other offer or discount.
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TEL:01793 977117
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Property Section
Need advice letting a property? Looking to Buy To Let? If the answer to the above is then then please contact me, Peter Hall at The Property Shop. I’ve been letting properties in Swindon since the ‘90’s and it’s fair to say there have been some changes but one thing that hasn’t changed is my commitment to getting the job done right and my commitment to look after my clients and be available 7 days a week, 365 days a year. I call it good old fashioned personal service. My previous role involved me being on the sharp end of dealing with the public in a law and order role where patience and communication skills are essential. I find these two skills transfer well when we let property. We are constantly being asked to provide good quality property to tenants who match landlords high standards, so PAGE 24
if you’re an experienced landlord wanting that little bit more from your agent or a new buy to let investor then don’t hesitate to contact me. I run a lettings clinic every second Saturday of the month so am available to discuss anything to do with letting a property. If you have a question please feel free to email, telephone or call in and see what makes The Property Shop that little bit different
ANYTHING SWINDON
WWW.ANYTHINGSWINDON.CO.UK
TEL: 01793 977117
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Regent Circus, Swindon, SN1 1FA T: 01793 423 063
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Sports and Fitness
“Oh when the SCOB, go marching on….” What a month for Swindon College Old Boys…. The break over Christmas and New Year did nothing to change the will and determination of the SCOB 1st XV as they saw off Gosford All Blacks in the Bucks, Berks and Oxon Premier before continuing the emphatic cup run by destroying local rivals Hungerford, by 96 points to nil, in the RFU Senior Vase - a national competition that could see the boys run out at Twickenham in May 2015.
The second XV haven’t been so fortunate as injuries and the extremes of Christmas have taken their effect, but with only 10 points between 3rd and 8th place in the Dorset & Wilts 2 North league there is every opportunity to climb the table as the spring arrives and the weather warms up. Special mention to Scott Cookson who, at the time of writing, is still in Bath hospital awaiting an operation on a fractured dislocation of his ankle. As with every month there is a SCOB 1st XV and 2nd XV player of the month. This month’s 1st XV is Tucker Blink
horn, the new boy who has recently joined the club in the centre and whose partnership with Mathew Allen has been devastating, he is a great addition to the club and epitomises the enjoyment that can come from being a part of Swindon College Old Boys. The 2nd XV player of the month is Jason Patmore, a powerhouse on the wing for the 2nd XV and pound for pound one of the clubs strongest players – his attitude to being a part of the team is everything that any club could want which saw him regain his place in the 1st XV for the 96-0 thrashing of Hungerford RFC.
SCOB PLAYERS OF THE MONTH
Tucker Blinkhorn
Jason Patmore Player of the Month Sponsored by
Anyone interested in joining Swindon College Old Boys please visit www.scobrfc.org or head to Wroughton Leisure Centre, 18:30 Tue and Thurs. Photography by Jade Williams.
“Swindon College Old Boys RFC Proudly Sponsored By”
Mayo claims February show will be his best yet Swindon promoter Keith Mayo believes his February 13 show at the Oasis Leisure Centre will be the best boxing spectacle the town has ever seen. With former Commonwealth Games gold medallist Eamonn O’Kane headlining the show, Mayo is confident the show, which is a co-promotion with Swindon trainer Paddy Fitzpatrick, will be a sell-out. Joining middleweight star O’Kane, who is rated eighth in the IBF world rankings, are five Swindon boxers Kelvin Young, Luke Watkins, Ryan Martin, Garvey Kelly and Danny Bharj. Newly crowned British Masters Bronze light heavyweight champion Tariq Quaddus, managed by Mayo, makes up the seven fight card. It will be Mayo’s 14th promotion in Swindon since he staged the first professional boxing show in the town for almost three decades back in 2008 and he cannot wait to hear the first bell ring for what he claims will be his best event yet. “This show is in association with Paddy Fitzpatrick which means we have been able to bring in a big name like Eamonn O’Kane to Swindon. Eamonn is ranked eighth in the IBF ratings and is a name every boxing fan will know having won gold at the Commonwealth Games, we are delighted to have him on our show.” “We have what I believe is the best undercard I’ve ever had on one of my shows with all six boxers on the hunt and capable of winning British titles down the line. From our stable we have Kelvin Young, Tariq Quaddus, Ryan Martin and PAGE 28
Danny Bharj and from Paddy Fitzpatrick’s gym we have Luke Watkins and Garvey Kelly. There’s a buzz about all six of these boxers right now and tickets are already selling fast.
Tickets are now available and cost £35 standard and £60 VIP/ringside and can be purchased via any of the boxers, Keith Mayo or from the Oasis Leisure Centre.
Headline act Eamonn O’Kane and Paddy Fitzpatrick.
ANYTHING SWINDON
WWW.ANYTHINGSWINDON.CO.UK
TEL: 01793 977117
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Reduce your fuel bills this winter with great value home insulation through Safe & Warm! Swindon Borough Council has now reopened its insulation scheme for this winter and is looking to help those households who meet the following criteria: Cost Cost
for cavity for loft wall insulation insulation
Receiving income or disability benefit
Free
Free
Over 80 years old or Registered disabled or capable of being registered disabled
Free
Free
Over 70 years old or Council Tax Band A or B property or Child under 4 (and must be Council £50 Tax Band A, B or C)
£50
Swindon resident not in any of above groups
£99
£99
All grants are subject to available funding, eligibility criteria and technical survey, and homes may need to be built before 1992 to qualify.
This offer is expected to end by 31st March 2015. These measures are still the most effective ways of reducing heating bills, so act now and feel the benefit! To arrange your free no-obligation survey through the only Local Authority backed scheme in Swindon contact David Miles on t: 01793 463679 or e: dmiles3@swindon.gov.uk Homes in certain parts of Swindon attract 100% funding regardless of the above criteria - we’ll check this as well! Swindon Safe & Warm
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Home insulation measures – value for money? •
Mid-way through another winter season, are you wondering how high your fuel bills will be this time?
•
Did you know that the insulating your home is still one of the most cost effective ways to reduce your fuel bills?
Swindon Borough Council, through its Safe & Warm scheme, continues to offer help to residents who want to get great deals on insulation for their homes. To show what good value the insulation measures are, compare some of the typical costs of things we may spend our money on below: Family trip to the cinema: £35 (Empire family ticket – 4 people minimum 2 children plus snacks) Family trip to the football: (STFC Gold, Side Stands, 2 adults & 2 juniors)
£78
Family meal out: £60 (Estimate – 2 adults & 3 children inc drinks and desserts) Family Season Ticket for the football: (STFC FAM 3 offer - 2 adults & 2 juniors)
£900
Full year Sky TV/phone/broadband package: £1051.80 (Complete Bundle plus broadband and line rental) Now look at the great offers in our advert and see how they compare! Cavity wall insulation can save £145 per year on heating bills for a typical 3 bed semi-detached house, and if there is no loft insulation present improving this can save £150 a year. This shows the insulation can be really good value. For a relatively small outlay, you can make you home warmer and more comfortable to live in. The potential savings can outweigh the costs of having the insulation works done within the first year. Insulation measures can also help to reduce damp and mould problems in the home resulting from condensation. Funding for the insulation scheme is limited with a definite end date of 31st March 2015, so offers may be withdrawn at short notice if the funding limit is reached. Homes may need to be built before 1992 to qualify for these offers, and expression of interest in the scheme is no guarantee of being able to proceed to the installation stage. Homes in certain parts of Swindon may qualify for free cavity wall and loft insulation regardless of eligibility criteria. This is determined by location and is part of the Carbon Saving Communities Obligation. When making an enquiry your eligibility for this scheme will be automatically checked. Please see our advert for details of how to book a free no-obligation survey and quote for the Safe & Warm insulation scheme. What else can Safe & Warm help me with? There are a range of free advice guides available including energy saving in the home, reducing condensation and mould problems, controlling your heating, fuel tariff information guide, and reducing your risk of falling in the home. If you would like any of these guides, or would like any further information on anything mentioned in this article, please contact: David Miles, Affordable Warmth Coordinator, Swindon Borough Council. 5th Floor Wat Tyler House, Beckhampton Street, Swindon SN1 2JH Tel: 01793 463679 Email: dmiles3@swindon.gov.uk Website: www.swindon.gov.uk/safeandwarm ANYTHING SWINDON
WWW.ANYTHINGSWINDON.CO.UK
TEL: 01793 977117
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Pearce Funeral Services 1 Groundwell Rd, Swindon, SN1 2LT 01793 422422
"The closest Funeral Director to the Register"
Professionally Qualified A Truly Personal & Compassionate Service For You And Your Loved One
Pre Payment Funeral Plans Available Included in The Good Funeral Guide since 2011, In Recognition Of Our Quality Of Service
Home Visits Available
'John (centre), Tracy and David - Here for you when needed most'
Chapel of Rest: 92 Ermin Street, Stratton St Margaret, SN3 4NN – 01793 832072
www.pearcefuneralservices.co.uk
Pearce Funeral Services 92 Ermin Street, Stratton St Margaret, Swindon, SN3 4NN
01793 832072
Professionally Qualified A Truly Personal & Compassionate Service For You And Your Loved One Pre Payment Funeral Plans Available Included in The Good Funeral Guide since 2011, In Recognition Of Our Quality Of Service
'John (centre), Tracy and David - Here for you when needed most'
Based in Stratton St Margaret, for your extra convenience we also have offices at 1 Groundwell Road, 300 yards from the Registrar’s Office, an easy place to call into after registration. We are available 24 hours a day, every day of the year. 92 Ermin Street, Stratton St Margaret, SN3 4NN – 01793 832072 or 1 Groundwell Road, Swindon, SN1 2LT – 01793 422422.
www.pearcefuneralservices.co.uk PAGE 32
Tesco Extra Community Room
Michelle
Sharon
07514 408470
07999 490638
Out in the Community Champion
In-store Community Room Champion
The room is spacious with conference style seating for up to 20 people with tea and coffee facilities; there is no charge for the use of the room but bookings will need to be made if you or a group you represent would like the space. With toilet facilities and internet access through four computer screens situated in the room I am sure we will be taking bookings immediately. Our community room is available free of charge for relevant community activities that focus on areas such as health, education, housing and employment, crime and disorder.
Please contact us: swindon@communityattesco.co.uk for more information.
Tree, Garden Services & Landscape Maintenance Call Peter on:
01793 238114 07818 477447
KM PROMOTIONS IN ASSOCIATION WITH PADDY FITZPATRICK PRESENTS...
THE WORLD AWAITS FRIDAY 13th FEBRUARY 2015
THE OASIS, SWINDON
MAIN EVENT
EAMONN O KANE
All kinds of Garden Work Trees Pruned, Topped & felled Fencing, Turfing & Grass Cutting Path’s & Patio’s Laid Years ce Hedges Trimmed Experien All types of Rubbish removed Family Run Business Full Liability Insurance
MIDDLEWEIGHT
Over 25
10 x 3 MIN ROUNDS
WBC SILVER CHAMPION & IBF INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPION RANKED 8 IN THE WORLD AT MIDDLEWEIGHT BY THE IBF CHIEF SUPPORT
LUKE “THE DUKE” WATKINS CRUISERWEIGHT 8 x 3 MIN ROUNDS
ALSO FEATURING
GARVEY KELLY KELVIN YOUNG TARIQ QUADDUS DANNY BHARJ RYAN MARTIN UNDEFEATED WELTERWEIGHT
SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHT
LIGHT HEAVY
CALL 01793 507111
WWW.KMPROMOTIONS.CO.UK
P.W Tree & Garden Services
PROFESSIONAL DEBUT
UNDEFEATED WELTERWEIGHT
THE DUKE WATKINS:
TICKETS
07568 366 388
OR ANY OF THE BOXERS
£35 £60 VIP
RINGSIDE AVAILABLE
pwtreeandgarden@yahoo.com ANYTHING SWINDON
WWW.ANYTHINGSWINDON.CO.UK
TEL: 01793 977117
PAGE 33
#50pFeb
ALL BEDS ONLY AT 44Commercial CommercialRoad, Road,Swindon SwindonSN1 SN15NX 5NX 44
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PAGE 34
TA LA SWI NN R ND IN G ON G E ’S ST S UD T IO
ONLY AT 44 Commercial Road, Swindon SN1 5NX
0845 305 9922 consol.eu
ANYTHING SWINDON
WWW.ANYTHINGSWINDON.CO.UK
TEL:01793 977117
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