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09 06 A brand new showroom The guys at Clearview give us an update on the opening of their new showroom.
Council gets behind national CSE awareness day
10 Robert Buckland Anything Swindon catch up with Robert Buckland, Conservative MP for South Swindon.
12 SNDOGS Our monthly check in with the team over at SNDOGS.
13 Drove Vets Our regular update from the team at Drove Vets.
14 The Spring Survival Guide A great feature highlighting the highs and lows of Spring and how it affect us all.
16 Museum Changes An update on the opening hours of Swindon Museum and Art Gallery
17
What’s On in Old Town Swindon Arts Centre update us on whats on in the coming months.
20 Swindon Talent 2017 inSwindon BID Company are inviting all the talented people of Swindon to show of their talents PAGE 04
22 Community News 20
This month we get updates on all that is happening in the local area from the local Councillors.
26 Empire Movie Update We check out the latest movie choices for the next few months with the team at Empire Cinema.
30 Angus Macpherson Our monthly focus from the Police and Crime Commissioner.
Graham
Ian
Welcome to the latest issue of the Anything Old Town Community Magazine. This new publication has been created to provide a personal and informative platform for the people of Old Town and the surrounding areas. Each month we bring you news and updates from your local Councillors, Swindon borough council, MP Robert Buckland, The highways agency and will also include stories and editorial from local people. This month we have our regular updates from Police Commissioner Angus MacPherson, MP Robert Buckland, and our
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: Anything Swindon Ltd www.anythingswindon.co.uk Readership: 75,000 Circulation: 25,000 Online View: 15,000 per month
Follow us on Social Media: facebook.com/anythingSwindon @anythingswindon
animal updates from Drove Vets and SN Dogs.
More Local Information: • Swindon Borough Council gets behind national CSE awareness day • Robert Buckland backs new sports and education trust. • More foster homes needed for Dogs in Swindon. • Drove Vets tell us rabbits are not just for Easter. • New opening times at Swindon museum and art gallery. • What’s on in Old Town update. • Swindon’s got talent with the Swindon town centre BID group Your news is important to us so if you have any stories of success or would like support for an upcoming event, please contact us and we will feature you in a future issue. Anything Swindon Magazines are community publications provided by Swindon-based people for Swindon-based people. Contact us today to publicise an event or advertise within our pages; our
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).
advertising rates are of the lowest across the town. Happy Reading Graham and Ian.
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PAGE 05
Brand New Showroom Opens 8th April 2017 On Saturday 8th April Clearview Doors and Windows will open their brand-new showroom at Elcot Business park in Marlborough. Clearview is a trusted name for double glazing in Swindon, Wiltshire and the surrounding area. Bringing a more personal touch when buying windows and doors, Mark and Darren work closely with their customers from start to finish ensuring familiarity and confidence throughout the quoting and fitting process. With a combined 50 years experience in the supply and installation of windows, doors and conservatories. Clearview continue to meet the very high expectations of their customers, with a reputation based on firm foundations to meet customers’ expectations and vision. The new showroom includes a variety of fully installed units including conservatory extensions, garden rooms and a variety of doors and windows on display.
If your unable to visit the showroom then visit their website at www.clearviewdoorsandwindows.co.uk
One of the great features of the webiste is to be able to fully design your own door from start to finish, with 100’s of combinations you will surely find a style to suit your needs.
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Showroom Hours Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm Saturday 9am to 4pm
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PAGE 07
Regular lawn mowing from ÂŁ12 per visit
01793 477800
GardenRoomSwindon.co.uk Commercial grass cutting services also available.
GAR_697653.pdf 13:49:24 January 15, 2014 1 of 2 Sarah
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Council gets behind national CSE awareness day Swindon Borough Council is backing a national campaign which aims to highlight the issues surrounding child sexual exploitation (CSE). The National Child Sexual Exploitation Awareness Day, which was held on Saturday 18 March, encourages everyone to think, spot and speak out against abuse and to adopt a zero tolerance to adults developing inappropriate relationships with children, or children developing inappropriate relationships with other children.
CSE is a form of child sexual abuse. It occurs where an individual or group takes advantage of an imbalance of power to coerce, manipulate or deceive a child or young person under the age of 18 into sexual activity either in exchange for something the victim needs or wants, and/or for the financial advantage or increased status of the perpetrator or facilitator. The victim may have been sexually exploited even if the sexual activity appears consensual. Child sexual exploitation does not always involve physical contact; it can also occur through the use of technology. The Council launched the website www.saysomethingswindon.co.uk last year to inform people about CSE and the signs to look out for, while a special online training programme has recently been launched for council staff and councillors. Schools across Swindon will also be displaying CSE awareness messaging on computers and screens as well as sharing details of the campaign on social media.
Council were staff will be on hand to raise awareness of CSE in the reception of the Council’s Wat Tyler House offices, while social care staff will join colleagues from Wiltshire Police in visiting various hotels around the town to reinforce the signs of CSE. Any child can be at risk of CSE. Boys and girls from all ethnic backgrounds experience CSE and can be at risk. Children with learning disabilities, autism spectrum conditions (ASC) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can be more vulnerable to CSE than their non-disabled peers. Residents are being urged to familiarise themselves with the typical signs of child sexual exploitation and report anything suspicious about it they may see. The Council and Police have also sent out leaflets containing tell-tell signs and specific information about CSE to local taxi drivers, hoteliers, bus company employees and licensed premises in the Borough. Cllr Fionuala Foley, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, said: “We fully support National CSE Awareness Day. Child sexual exploitation is a despicable crime and we must do all we can to keep our vulnerable young people safe.
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“Our online training programme is currently being rolled out to staff and councillors and we reaffirmed our commitment to protecting children in Swindon when Cabinet adopted our new CSE prevention strategy last month. “I would urge anyone in Swindon who hasn’t already done so to visit our website www.saysomethingswindon.co.uk so they can find out more information about CSE and discover what signs to look out for and who to report them to.” If people are concerned that a child is at immediate risk of CSE they should ring Wiltshire Police on 999 If the child is not at immediate risk but people still have concerns and have some details about the child, such as their name or address and they live in the Borough of Swindon, they should contact Swindon Borough Council’s Family Contact Point during office hours (Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm) on 01793 466903 or send an email to: FCP@swindon.gov.uk Otherwise people should call Wiltshire Police’s non-emergency line on 101 to report their concerns about possible sexual exploitation.
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R
Robert Buckland Robert Buckland MP supports creation of Swindon Supermarine Sports & Education Trust
The Community building is expected to be completed in May and to be in use by the Community from June 2017. The non-league football club’s purpose is to make use of its extensive facilities to host a wide range of community activities aimed at tackling social, health and education needs in and around Swindon and Wiltshire.
Robert Buckland MP is pleased to support the creation of the Swindon Supermarine Sports and Education Trust, a wholly charitable trust based in the club’s Webbswood Stadium in South Marston. The Trust’s first action will be to open a new, purpose-built £85,000 community facility at the Stadium. Swindon Supermarine Sports & Education Trust has already received the backing of the local business community with an essential £50,000 funding boost from The Hills Group Limited, which enabled the Trust to begin building work at the beginning of November 2016. The funding has been made available through the Landfill Communities Fund (LCF), which is administered for Hills by Community First, the Rural Community Council for Wiltshire. PAGE 10
The new building will be available for the community to use at least 150 days a year, in addition to the programmes to be offered by the Swindon Supermarine Sports and Education Trust. The Trust is seeking two lead sponsors to finance the programme costs. Bevirs Solicitors have agreed to become the first lead sponsor of the Trust and its community building with an injection of £12,000. Alan Fletcher, Swindon Supermarine Sports & Education Trust Chairman commented: “We are thrilled with the development of our new Trust and hugely proud of this new addition to our growing community facilities at WebbsWood Stadium. “From its very inception, the entire Supermarine site at South Marston has had at its heart the purpose
of providing sporting facilities and offering activities that bring together the local community. With the development of our new Trust, and this new community facility, we are building on that fine heritage and taking a giant leap forward.” Robert Buckland MP commented: “I am extremely pleased to support the new Swindon Supermarine Sports and Education Trust, which will be a great addition to the community facilities available here in Swindon. “I would like to thank the local business community for their backing, which has made this possible and encourage more local businesses to become involved with the Trust.” To find out more details about Swindon Supermarine Sports and Education Trust and how you can become involved, please contact Hayley Tarrant on 01793 532363 or by emailing hayley.tarrant@bevirs.co.uk
Constituency Office 01793 533 393 29b Wood Street, Old Town, Swindon SN1 4AN robert.buckland.mp@parliament.uk
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PAGE 11
Up and Coming SNDog Events:
Registered Charity No. 1163257 SNDogs (Saving Needy Dogs)
SNDOGS update We start April’s update with some good news – since 1st January 2017 we have re-homed ………… 26 dogs!
29th April – Monthly Dog Walk @ Coate Water. Meet at 10.30am
SNDogs will cover all bills, food, bedding, vets etc you just open your home to a dog in temporary need of a home, the dog stays with you till they find a forever homethis can be for a few days for a few months.
Please visit www.sndogs.uk for the full list of events
DOG OF THE MONTH
STAR
Thamesdown Transport have also donated £200 to SNDogs. We took SNDogs Nush and Cooper along with us – and we have some fantastic news to share – Nush has been rehomed by the owner of the PR Company for Thamesdown Transport who met and fell in love with her on the day! We were also invited along to the West Swindon Ladies Club to do a talk about SNDogs and what a lovely group of ladies they are! We took along adopted SNDog – Kate, who loved all the attention (possibly due to the biscuits she was given)
If you would like to become a Foster Carer please take a look at our website www.sndogs.uk and fill in a Foster Application Form. Thank you! SNDogs were recently invited along to Thamesdown Transport’s Bus Depot at Barnfield in Swindon. The bus company is scrapping the charges for taking dogs on their buses which is great news for Swindon’s dog owners – Dogs now travel FREE on all Thamesdown Buses! PAGE 12
7th April – Edinburgh Woollen Mill Charity Day, Cirencester. 9am – 4pm 29th April – Highworth May Day, 10am – 4pm
SNDogs URGENTLY NEEDS MORE FOSTER HOMES
A foster home is a stop gap between an old life and the start of a new life. Dogs that come to us have either been found as a stray and in this case we would have very little information on the dog or the dog has been handed in by an owner unable to continue to provide for their pet. Sometimes these dogs have medical conditions or need socialisation. If SNDogs didn’t have wonderful foster homes we couldn’t do what we do.
APRIL 1st April – Charity Fete, Brockhurst Dome, Swindon 10am – 3pm
STAR is an older lady, of about 12yrs. She is a shy lady who will need patient owners who are happy with knowing Star is there and they don`t feel the need to cuddle her as she is really not happy with people in her personal space, She has shown no signs of aggression. Star would like to live with another dog, but not a small one! No cats or small animals should be in Star`s forever home. Star would be better in a home without children. You don’t have to live in Swindon to re-home one of our dogs – we have re-homed dogs as far away as Yorkshire, Wales and Southampton! If you can give STAR a home please email: sndrescue@gmail.com SNDogs relies entirely on donations - there are many ways you can help SNDogs. Donate via Paypal – swindonsneedydogs@gmail.com or bank transfer to (Co-op) SNDogs Account No. 65622481 sort code 089299. We also have an Amazon Wish List – search for Saving Needy Dogs. Visit our website for more info... www.sndogs.uk
Drove Vets Monthly update Will you still love me next Easter? Rabbits have been associated with spring and Easter for hundreds of years, mostly in the form of the mythical Easter Bunny. Whilst ‘chocolate bunnies’ are easy to care for (unwrap, scoff and feel sick) real rabbits require a lot more time and attention. Much rabbit care is, however, logical if you think about how they live in the wild. In the wild rabbits live together in large numbers in a warren, and for this reason pet rabbits prefer to be housed with other members of their own species. I am not advocating having hundreds of rabbits, but two rabbits together are happier than one. I would recommend getting both rabbits neutered for several reasons. Male rabbits kept together will fight and if housed indoors are more likely to mark their territory, and obviously a male and a female rabbit kept together will increase their numbers rapidly. Female rabbits in particular will benefit from being neutered (or ‘spayed’). Up to 80% of unneutered female rabbits will die of cancer of the uterus by the age of 5-6 years, when a rabbit is spayed her uterus and ovaries are removed, so this risk is removed. Neutering rabbits can also make them calmer, less aggressive and easier to house-train. Another important preventative measure is regular vaccinations against myxomatosis and Haemorrhagic Viral Diarrhoea (HVD). Myxomatosis is spread by biting insects including fleas,mosquitoes and some fur mites, so does not require direct contact with other rabbits to catch it. Myxomatosis is a cruel disease that in it’s severest form cannot be treated. HVD virus from infected rabbit’s droppings can be spread by direct contact or on wild bird’s feet,
your own feet and even be blown on the wind. HVD causes massive internal bleeding and an infected rabbit will die within 48 hours. Vaccination against HVD and Myxomatosis are now vaccinated for together as one injection, once a year. You are what you eat (which makes me a chocolate mini-egg) but makes a rabbit a grass eating-machine, and the majority of rabbit health conditions are due to the wrong diet. Grass (or the dried version-hay) is tough to chew, high fibre low fat and low carbohydrate with moderate protein. Rabbit teeth are constantly growing so need constant wear from prolonged periods of chewing hay. Their guts are designed to recycle the non-fibrous parts of food which they do by re-eating special soft faeces (called caecotrophs). Too rich a diet means they do not eat these caecotrophs which is the cause of ‘sticky-bottom’.This can attract flies which will lay their eggs on the rabbit and within 24 hours can be crawling with maggots(‘fly-strike’). This condition is extremely unpleasant and if not treated early can be fatal through shock, it is important to pick up and check your rabbit for soiling underneath at least twice daily. The most balanced diet for a pet rabbit is mainly hay or grass (but not lawn clippings as they ferment in the gut), a selection of leafy greens and vegetables and a small amount of pelleted rabbit food. Any changes in feeding should be done gradually over several weeks to prevent digestive upsets. If your rabbit doesn’t eat for 24 hours they should be checked immediately by your vet. The Rabbit Welfare Association and Fund has a website where you can download some good leaflets about what you can and cannot feed your bunny along with a wealth of other information. Always remember if you have any concerns about your rabbit, please contact your vet.
24 HR EMERGENCY SERVICE TELEPHONE: (01793) 522483
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PAGE 13
FEATURE ARTICLE
The Spring Survival Guide By Sarah Farrant, Optometrist While the warmer weather and brighter evenings make Spring many people’s favourite time of year, it is set to trigger a wave of problems due to the start of hay fever season. Trees begin to pollenate as early as March, and with this comes microscopic spores, dust and pollen that irritate our eyes and sinuses. Hay fever affects more than 1 in 5 people in the UK, with one of the most common symptoms being itchy, burning and watery eyes. Here are Sarah’s 5 top tips to help you survive this hay fever season naturally:
BANISH STUFFY NOSES Springtime is all about getting outdoors and being active, but feeling stuffy and blocked up can make that a challenge. Blocked sinuses from pollen allergies can leave you feeling lethargic and sluggish but there are things we can do to help. Try adding a couple of drops of peppermint oil to a bowl of hot water and inhaling the vapour. It will help clear blocked noses as well as being calming!
DUAL PROTECTION FOR ITCHY EYES One of the most common hay fever complaints is itchy, burning, and watery eyes, but preservative free eye drops can help to protect and soothe them. Brand new Hycosan Dual provides protection and relief for allergy affected eyes. It contains all natural ingredients which combine to form a dual barrier against pollen, dust particles and animal hair. It’s unique bottle design means it stays sterile for 6 months and it’s contact lens friendly. (£14.95 available from Boots and all good opticians and pharmacies) PAGE 14
Sarah explains; “Our eyes and sinuses are very sensitive to environmental changes, which can leave us feeling ‘stuffy’ and uncomfortable. Our body wrongly interprets pollen and dust particles as a threat and tries to expel them. When pollen and particles from the air are swept into our eyes we create lots of watery tears to flush them away. This excessive watering reduces the quality of our tears meaning our eyes feel dry and sore – it’s a vicious cycle.”
CALM THOSE COUGHS Whether it’s pollen, or dust from spring cleaning, breathing in these microscopic particles can irritate our lungs and cause coughs and sore throats. Manuka honey is 4 times as rich in amino acids, vitamins and minerals as regular honey which makes it a great way to stimulate our immune system and prevent throat irritation and coughing. Add a spoonful to your smoothie or yoghurt for a healthy breakfast with a boost.
BRIGHTEN DARK CIRCLES Dark circles that develop under the eyes during spring may not mean that you’re sleep deprived. Hay fever causes congestion which restricts blood flow to the area, causing darkness and puffiness. Try using specialist antibacterial wipes Optase™ TTO to cleanse the lids the sand delicate skin around your eyes. New Optase™ TTO contains tea tree oil, Hyaluronic Acid, Camomile and Aloe Vera to hydrate and soothe your eyelids. (£9.95 available from www.scopeophthalmics.com)
BE SNEEZE-FREE Sneezing is the body’s way of getting rid of bacteria and viruses so it’s an important part of the immune system. In springtime however, pesky pollen particles can enter the nose and cause irritation leading to fits of sneezing. Replace your coffee with a cup of chamomile tea. Coffee contains histamine which can aggravate allergy symptoms like sneezing. Chamomile, however is a natural antihistamine and a mild sedative so swap that coffee-crash for pure relaxation.
HYCOSAN™ DUAL provides protection against environmental allergens and relief for itching and burning eyes. HYCOSAN DUAL is the only preservative free eye drop with precise dosing specially formulated to combine (0.05%) Sodium Hyaluronate and (2%) Ectoin. It forms a natural dual barrier against environmental allergens such as pollen, dust particles and animal hair. Each bottle contains a guaranteed 225 equal drops and remains sterile for 6 months from opening thanks to its unique bottle design. Suitable for use with contact lenses. RRP £14.95, available in store April 2017. OPTASE™ TTO (Tea Tree Oil) Lid Wipes contain a unique and gentle formulation of natural ingredients which are preservative free, making it ideal for daily lid hygiene. Establishing daily lid hygiene is key to the treatment and management of Blepharitis. Combining Tea Tree Oil and the soothing properties of Hyaluronic Acid, Camomile & Aloe Vera, OPTASE TTO™ provides natural relief from Blepharitis symptoms such as itchy eyelids or burning eyes. OPTASE ™TTO is part of the OPTASE™ family of products that are designed to deliver comfort and soothing relief. The recommended retail price for OPTASE™ TTO is £9.95.
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PAGE 15
Swindon Museums and Art Gallery OPENING HOURS EXTENDED a new museum and art gallery, these additional hours will help raise the profile of one of the best collections of British Modern Art and make the collection much more accessible. The additional opening hours will be funded through the museum and art gallery’s existing budgets, while the Friends of SM&AG will be providing volunteers to help with additional staffing.
Swindon Museum and Art Gallery (SM&AG) has announced that from 4th April it is extending its opening times from 16 hours a week to 35. Under the new scheme the current facility, based in Apsley House, Bath Road, will more than double its current opening hours. The new opening times will start on Tuesday 4th April. The venue will be open from Tuesdays through Saturdays, from 10am until 5pm and there will be a late-night Thursday opening once a month. To celebrate the new opening hours, the Museum and Art Gallery will be hosting a celebration weekend on Saturday 1st and Sunday 2nd April. Working with Creative Museums, SM&AG will be open from 10am until 5pm on both days and will be offering creative and fun activities for all the family. Information about the event will be available on the SM&AG Facebook page. PAGE 16
The additional opening hours will prepare the venue to not only support the delivery of a new museum and art gallery, but, more importantly, enable the people of Swindon and further afield to access the wonderful collections. Since holding an exhibition in the heart of Mayfair at the Osborne Samuel Gallery earlier this year, interest in the art and museum collections has thrived amongst local visitors as well as those coming from further away. In order to meet this increasing demand, and working with the Swindon Museum and Art Gallery Trust who are leading on the project for
The collections are displayed at the museum and art gallery through a series of engaging and beautifully presented exhibitions. Over the past three years, 75% of the Modern British Art has been displayed and three galleries within the museum have been refreshed and updated. A successful Heritage Lottery Funded project, Archaeology Swindon’s Archaeology in Context, will also see the current Archaeology Gallery refreshed. The team at Swindon Museum and Art Gallery look forward to even more people visiting this excellent FREE museum and art gallery.
TUE 02 MAY
GRAHAM HARVEY – on the whys and wherefores of grass-fed food. Are we really what we eat? Are ‘traditional’ foods unhealthy? What are the effects, on our health, of a diet that largely comprises grain-fed meat and processed factory foods? Can grazing be commercial? Has modern agriculture locked us into a cycle of degraded foods from overstretched and impoverished fields? Any other questions? Prize-winning author, farmer, co-founder of the country’s leading conference on low-input ecological agriculture, the Oxford Real Farming Conference, and agricultural advisor to the BBC Radio 4’s The Archers, Graham Harvey has some answers in his book Grass-Fed Nation. In it, he explains how the grass-fed movement will minister to good health, put life back into our soils, and put wildlife back onto our farmland. Tickets: £11.00 Concessions: £1.00 off
SUN 21 MAY
Everybody Sing Theatre Company’s first production will be Bugsy Malone. The all-singing, all-dancing action musical set in Prohibition era New York sees rival gansters Fat Sam and Dandy Dan at loggerheads. As custard pies fly and Dan’s destructive splurge guns wreak havoc, Bugsy Malone, a penniless ex-boxer and all round nice guy, falls for Blousey Brown, an aspiring singer. You will be treated to such classic hits including, We Could Have Been Anything That We Wanted To Be, My Name Is Tallulah, Fat Sam’s Grand Slam, So You Wanna Be A Boxer and of course the unforgettable title track Bugsy Malone. Tickets: £13.00 Concessions: £11.00
TUE 23 MAY
Join one of the UK’s most exciting rising stars as he heads out on his first nationwide tour… In 2015, Tez Ilyas achieved phenomenal success with his debut stand up show TEZ Talks. It was met with packed out audiences and huge commercial success at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. A totally sold-out run at London’s Soho Theatre followed, with additional dates at the prestigious Southbank Centre. The show went onto be adapted into a series for BBC Radio 4 (with a second series coming in 2017). Tickets: £14.50, Concessions: £2.00 off & Friends: £2.50 off. Groups of 8-19 receive £2.00 off a full price ticket. Groups of 20-39 receive £2.50 off a full price ticket plus the group organiser goes free. Groups of 40+ receive £3.00 off a full price ticket plus the group organiser goes free.
WED 31 MAY
The only group to have toured with the Beatles and twice with the Rolling Stones, The Barron Knights return to the Wyvern Theatre. One of the most entertaining group to come out of the 60’s and 70’s, The Barron Knights have played over 300 shows at the London Palladium and a have a performance at Buckingham Palace under their belts. Their musicianship, harmonies and of course their humour have earned them the nickname ‘The Guvnors’ among peers. They are supremely talented, a showbiz phenomenon and the best tonic the NHS could give the population. Apart from the old favourites like Call Up The Groups, they play their inimitable version of the William Tell Overture and their flamenco party piece Malaguana. Their parodies of Killer Queen and Windmills Of Your Mind will have you rockin’ and rollin’ with laughter. Tickets: £21.00 Friends £2.50 off
Tickets also available from boxoffice@westernplayers.co.uk or call 07575 711522 or visit We Got Tickets
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PAGE 19
TITTER YE NOT
THE ACCLAIMED PLAY THAT EXPOSES THE LIFE OF FRANKIE HOWERD
Frankie Howerd would have been 100 years old on March 6th 2017. To celebrate the centenary of the birth of one of Britain’s greatest comedians Paul Harris tours his one-man play about the man. TITTER YE NOT written and starring Paul Harris tells of the life both on and off stage of Frankie, a troubled but amazingly talented man who wowed audiences for almost fifty years. In the 1940’s he was the biggest comedy star in the country, only to lose everything including his health before coming back to prominence and finding a new young audience in the 1980’s.
From earning a thousand pounds a week he suddenly found that he had no work and only ten pounds a week to live on. Battling his nerves and depression he eventually fought his way back to stardom on television and in London’s West End before his death in 1992. TITTER YE NOT delves into the personal and professional life of this comedy icon and is at times both hilarious and heartbreaking as we explore the life and loves of a comedy legend. A play which very nearly didn’t see the light of day when it was first written in 1999 owing to the demands of Howerd’s manager and partner Dennis Heymer, and the legal eagles handling the estate who, some say gave the impression that they did not want his story told. TITTER YE NOT is a lovingly crafted piece that will have audiences rolling in the aisles one minute and tearing at their heartstrings the next.
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Paul Harris is a writer, broadcaster and performer who started writing for ‘The Two Ronnies’ television series and has since written for radio television and stage. He recreates the great man with eerie accuracy.
Titter Ye Not plays at Swindon Arts Centre on Thu 25 May as part of a national tour. Curtain up at 8pm Tickets can be booked online at swindontheatres.co.uk or through the Ticket Office on 01793 524481
LOSING OUR HERITAGE ?
HELP SAVE OUR THEATRES
FROM DEMOLITION!
Reading Palace 1962
“Just join in and become a fan of OLD THEATRES magazine. It’s a brilliant publication with something for everybody who loves ‘live’ entertainment and theatres where it can still be seen. Enjoy your copies and help keep our cherished venues ALIVE !” OT Patron Nick Thomas, Chairman of Qdos Entertainment
Three editions are published each year of our beautifully produced publication, containing over 150 illustrations (most in full colour) within its 50 pages. Highly collectable, OLD THEATRES magazine is now in its 9th year and has become part of our theatre heritage. Copies are also distributed to participating theatre organisations in Britain and America as we share our news. We welcome interest from theatre groups, museums, historical societies, schools and colleges. So that we can give our support. (Just send us an email to learn more!) OLD THEATRES magazine, 20 Rife Way, Felpham, Bognor Regis, West Sussex, PO22 7BW t: 01243 829904 | e: oldtheatres@googlemail.com | w: www.oldtheatres.co.uk For our latest copy, please send a cheque for £8 (includes UK postage and packing) made payable to T.G. Kirtland at the above address.
The Yeomen of the Guard presented by Swindon Gilbert & Sullivan Society Swindon Arts Centre TUE 4 - SAT 8 APRIL wwwswindontheatres.co.uk
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PAGE 19
It’s BACK! The Swindon town centre Annual BEST of Swindon Talent Competition 2017 This is an ideal opportunity for the people of Swindon to showcase their talents and gain stage experience. The competition has seen contestants go on to national competitions”
Terms & Conditions Normal inSwindon competitions terms and condition apply www.swindontowncentre.co.uk/main.asp?contentID=1023 The competition is free to enter. You will need to submit your entry via our online form: A direct link to a video of your act performing on YouTube, Vimeo or a similar service. It need not be a public link.
As part of the ST. George’s Day celebrations, inSwindon BID company want to recognise the best talent Swindon has got to offer! inSwindon BID Company are inviting all dancers, singers, actors, illusionists, comedians, bands, contortionists, musicians and even jugglers to submit and showcase their skills for the annual talent competition, where 8 finalists will battle it out on the main stage in front of our panel of judges and the audience on St George’s Day, Sunday 23rd April 2017.
By entering the competition, you agree: that any material submitted and any consequent live performance may be used for inSwindon BID Company promotions. Entries must be received by 5.00pm on Friday 31st March 2017 All entries will be viewed by a judging panel on Tuesday 4th April 2017 and the 7 finalists will be notified by Wednesday 5th April 2017.
It’s simple to enter - all entries must be submitted by 5pm on Friday 31 March 2017. All you need to do is upload your entry performance via youtube or Vimeo and send us the link via our online entry form ... GOOD LUCK!
The judging panel will select a further 6 acts from the entrants who will be featured on inSwindon BID Company’s Facebook page between Friday 7th – Monday 10th April 2017 (5pm). The act with the most likes will become the 8th finalist. The competition’s 8 finalists will be promoted through various media forms by inSwindon BID Company from Tuesday 11th April 2017. All entrants must be available to perform live on stage at the St Georges Day Festival on Sunday 23rd April between 2-4pm. All contestants must reside in the borough of Swindon.
The winner of the competition will be chosen by the talent spotting judges and will receive a fantastic prize – the chance to perform at this year’s Swindon Town Centre Christmas Lights Switch On – attended by over 10,000 people. Plus, you could WIN £250 worth of shopping vouchers to spend in the town centre. Last year, Phoebe Maddison was crowned the winner with her stunning rendition of Whitney Houston’s ‘I Will Always Love You’. Phoebe is also set to return for a special performance to open the competition this year. Di Powell, inSwindon BID Manager, said: “We are thrilled the ‘Best of Swindon’ talent show is back as part of the day’s activities. Last year’s winner Phoebe was incredible and we can’t wait for her to open the competition for 2017. PAGE 20
If you are under 18, you must have the permission of your parent/guardian to enter the competition. If under the age of 16, you must be accompanied by an adult.
All the entries will be viewed by our panel of judges and shortlisted to 7 finalists and the 8th finalist will be chosen by you through the inSwindon BID Company’s Facebook page. The act with the most likes will join the other 7 finalists live on stage on 23rd April 2017. To enter please visit inSwindon BID website: www.swindontowncentre.co.uk/ news/bestofswindontalentcompetition2017/
inSwindon BID Company will contact each of the finalists to discuss technical requirements for their live performance and do their best to accommodate all requests. Each finalist will have eight minutes (maximum) to perform on 23rd April 2017. The stage size is 7 metres x 6 metres. The winner will be selected by a judging panel based upon their performance on the day. The winner must be able to perform at the Swindon Christmas Light Switch on for the town centre on Saturday 18th November 2017.
Good luck Everyone! The judge’s decision is final.
Community Free microchipping goes mobile with Council help! A free mobile microchipping event will be staged by Swindon Borough Council in Wroughton and Wichelstowe on Saturday 1st April, working in partnership with the Blue Cross. The service - available for both dogs and cats – will be held at three separate stops around Wroughton, to be as accessible as possible. There is no need to book ahead, and there are no restrictions on the types of dogs and cats that can be microchipped. The clinics will be held at: •
10am- 11am Outside Stoweaway Community Centre, Staldon Road, East Wichel, Swindon, SN1 7AG.
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11:15am – 12:15pm Outside Ellendune Community Centre, Barrett Way, Wroughton, Swindon SN4 9LW.
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12:30pm – 1:15pm Outside Maunsell Way Recreation Ground, Wroughton, SN4 9JF.
Microchipping increases the chance of lost or stolen pets being returned to their owners, and all stray dogs picked up by Swindon Borough Council are scanned for a microchip. The law now requires all dogs over the age of 8 weeks to be microchipped with fully up-to-date ownership details. This event will run under an ‘amnesty’, so noone faces prosecution for bringing a dog along that is unchipped. Although cats are not subject to the same regulations, they are still prone to straying, so a microchip can help reunite them with their owners speedily. Owners who need to get their dogs or cats microchipped but cannot get along to the event, are urged to contact their vet. Alternatively, PAGE 22
they can arrange an appointment with the Blue Cross at Burford on 0300 777 1570, who will microchip any dog or cat for free. Another event will take place on 22nd April in Pinehurst and Penhill, with timings to be announced in due course. Similar events run by the Council and Blue Cross last year were highly successful. At Lydiard Park, 164 dogs were chipped, with a further 40 owners given advice about updating their dog’s chip information. Coate Water and Pinehurst also saw very successful events. Dog owners should bear in mind that the Microchipping of Dogs (England) Regulations 2015 Act is now fully applicable, so it is a breach to have a dog that is not chipped or has out of date information. The habitual keeper must ensure this is complied with, or face a fine of up to £500 if the requirements are ignored. The change does not alter the legal requirement under the Control of Dogs Order for all owners to make sure their dog wears a collar and tag when in a public place, stating the name and address of the owner. The new microchipping legislation applies to all dogs more than eight weeks old, no matter what breed or type. All breeders now have to microchip their puppies before transferring ownership, regardless of whether they are sold or given away. This includes accidental litters and all breeds, including crossbreeds, and it will be a criminal offence to not do so. Cllr Oliver Donachie, Cabinet Member for Public Protection, said: “The microchipping clinics build on last year’s highly successful events and I‘m glad pet owners responded so positively to our service. A mobile unit is a first for both us and the Blue Cross though. But it is yet another example of the Council doing its best, working in partnership with other agencies, to provide user-friendly services for the Swindon community. I would urge everyone to heed the law, act responsibly, and avoid a substantial fine.”
News
activities afternoon from 1.00 to 3.00 on 19th April. For more details of events at the museum see www.richardjefferies.org. Hesketh Crescent Play Area: The renovated play area is now in use, and a further item of play equipment is due to be installed soon. Swindon Museum and Art Gallery: Good news! From Tuesday 4th April, the Museum and Art Gallery will be open from 10.00 a.m. to 5.00 pm from Tuesdays to Saturdays. These extended opening hours will make it much easier for Swindon families to see our fascinating museum exhibits and our great art collection.
Central Swindon South Parish Council: The shadow parish council has now set a precept and on 1st April 2017 the parish council will take over responsibility for grass cutting, litter collection and graffiti removal; the management of parks and green spaces including the Town Gardens, Lawn Woods and the Great Copse; the Old Town Library, the Victoria Road public toilets and other services. The precept also has to cover the cost of the Parish administration. On 4th May elections will be held to elect 23 new parish councillors for Central Swindon South, and the Shadow Parish Councillors will hand over responsibility to their elected successors. The next Parish Council meeting will be held at 6.30 pm on Thursday 27th April in the Council Offices, Euclid Street. The Parish Council AGM will be held at 6.30 on Wednesday 17th May (venue to be announced). Notices of forthcoming meetings, agendas and minutes are published on the Central Swindon South Shadow Parish Council facebook page. ANYTHING SWINDON
Ambrose Field: Taylor Wimpey have published plans for a 62-house development on land lying west of Croft Road and south of Linley Close and a planning application is expected. Residents’ concerns include inadequate vehicle access from Croft Road, the exacerbation of existing flooding problems, and most important the fact that the development does not conform with Swindon’s adopted Local Plan. Please see the facebook page... “Protect Ambrose Fields” for updates on the plan. Quality Bus Corridor to provide a rapid bus route through Wichelstowe and Old Town to the Town Centre: SBC transport planners are now considering the consultation responses and reviewing the scheme, with a view to finalising a scheme for delivery by Spring 2018. Richard Jefferies Museum: 1st – 31st April “Weird Wiltshire” - a celebration of the weird and wonderful County of Wiltshire expressed through visual and performing arts, including a family
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Contact details: If you have any local issues or concerns please don’t hesitate to contact Nadine or Jane. Call 07595 071381 or 07864 839746 or email oldtown@ swindonlabour.co.uk . Eastcott Ward Councillor, Paul Dixon Kinsghill Parking Changes Following on from the Council’s recent consultation with residents of Sunnyside Avenue, Dunsford Close, Hillside Avenue and Bowood Road, I can report that the Council has considered people’s responses and produced plans for a Traffic Regulation Order (TRO), which residents in these areas should be aware of. The Council received a number of objections to the proposed TRO and they are now in the process of obtaining a decision from the Cabinet Member responsible for Parking so that council officers know how they need to proceed. I am keen to ensure residents’ voices are heard so do get in touch with me if you have views on the Council’s proposals.
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Continued... PAGE 23
Community News Eastcott Ward Councillor, Paul Dixon continued... Old Town Library After Swindon Council had proposed to close Swindon’s community libraries, including the one in Old Town, as part of its library closures programme, I am pleased to report that together with other councillors, I have managed to secure funding to keep the Old Town library open. The Old Town Library is located in the Arts Centre and is a popular library for residents who live in and around the Old Town area. I hope the library continues to thrive for the residents of Eastcott and OId Town. Old Town Development Planning Applications There has recently been a spate of planning applications in the Eastcott Road and Kingshill area which have proposed new housing development or converting existing buildings in to housing. The common problem with these applications are that they do not offer the necessary parking provision. With huge demand for residents parking permits in the Old Town and the Town Centre area, it is crucial that all new housing in these areas provides adequate parking provision and at the moment many applications aren’t fulfilling this requirement. As a consequence I have joined residents in successfully opposing a number of planning applications, including on Eastcott Road, Shelley Street and Groundwell Road. I would urge developers to give due consideration to parking when proposing new developments in the Old Town and Town Centre area. PAGE 24
Prospect Hill Improvements The council has recently introduced new measures to address ongoing issues of large vehicles driving from the Regents Circus development, up Prospect Hill and through the side streets to reach Victoria Road. These measures seek to address large heavy goods vehicles driving through narrow roads on and off Prospect Hill and damaging parked cars in the process. At the time of writing this article, the council had planned to introduce road narrowing points and new signs to block large vehicles driving through these areas. I am pleased the council has listened to residents in getting this problem addressed. Newhall Street Clean Up In March I was joined by local residents in completing a successful clean-up in the back alleys of Newhall Street and Crombey Street. After hours of clearing up fly tipping and litter from the back alleys, we ended up taking over 20 bags of rubbish and taking 3 dumped sofas, a television, an ironing board, a book case and a Christmas tree to the waste and recycling centre. Thank you to everybody who helped make this a very successful day. If residents would like to organise their own clean-ups they are welcome to get in touch with me to help organise it. Milton Road Baths Last year plans were revealed that proposed converting parts of the Milton Road Baths into flats. This was met with large public opposition and a petition was initiated to prevent any conversion of the baths in to residential properties.
At the recent Full Council Meeting I, along with other councillors, called on the Council to reinstate the small swimming pool at Milton Road Baths that was closed by GLL. We also succeeded in getting the Cabinet to commit to looking at having an independent options appraisal for the Milton Road Baths, as well as getting a commitment to work toward a two-pool solution at the baths, which would enable the reopening of the small pool. I will be keeping an eye on any proposals so that we don’t lose this valuable community facility and that we keep our heritage assets accessible for all Swindon residents Councillor Paul Dixon, Eastcott Councillor Mobile: 07454 736 769 Email: p.dixon8@ntlworld.com Twitter: @cllrdixon Walcot & Park North Councillors Update 20 MPH Zone For West Walcot We welcome the news that a 20 MPH Zone is to be established in Walcot West. This is the result of positive support from residents to the formal consultation on the proposal. We can assure residents that no traffic calming is to be installed as a consequence of establishing the zone. We would like to thank all those residents who contributed to the formal consultation exercise. The 20 MPH zone proposal was the only scheme which had overwhelming support from respondents. Evidence from other parts of the country show that these can make a real difference in
the quality of life in the local community. At the time of writing, we understand that the 20 mph zone will be in place by April. Parking Restrictions Plans to introduce parking restrictions in parts of Walcot West have been abandoned due to a lack of support for this amongst residents. We know there were some residents who were very keen on parking restrictions however in the end it was clear a majority were not in favour.
be meeting council officers to find out if the council will commit the required funding stated in the Upham Road report. Litter Picks At the request of a resident, we recently did a litter pick in the estate adjacent to New College. It was a positive morning spent improving the local area and we thank those residents who joined us. If residents in West Walcot would like to organise their own
clean-up they are welcome to get in touch with me to help organise it. Councillors Steve Allsopp: jean.norris1@ntlworld.com 01793 342708 Councillor Abdul Amin: abdulamin22@gmail.com 07921 269301 Councillor Emma Bushell: emmabushell@yahoo.co.uk 07876 430582
Upham Road Councillors are continuing to deal with complaints about the state of Upham Road. We have had sight of a council commissioned report on the state of Upham Road, which recommended a series of remedial works to improve a stretch of the road, which in the initial instance would cost just over £100K. We will
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To win family tickets to a movie of your choice, please tell us in 30 words or less why you love going to the movies? Please email your answer to us at win@anythingswindon.co.uk Closing date for the competition is the last day of April 2017 PAGE 26
Congratulations to the following winners! Natasha Garitsis Remember closing date for the competition is the last day of April 2017
Fish Brothers Nissan are excited to announce that the All New Nissan Micra is now in their showroom and you can test drive this exciting new addition to their range. Redesigned from the ground up, All New Micra is available in a range of vivid new colours and comes with an array of new features including BOSE Personal audio system, Intelligent Around View Monitor and offers over 100 personalisation styling options for you to choose from to make your new Micra truly individual. With its expressive design, uplifting exterior, class-leading technology and outstanding driving agility and comfort, the All New Nissan Micra stands out to offer you an audacious experience. The reaction from the motoring press has been fantastic: « The All New Micra has shifted way up the scale, to the point that we’re confident it’s right up there with the best cars in the class » AUTO EXPRESS
OMSEE IS PICTURED RECEIVING HER CERTIFICATE FROM CLLR KEITH WILLIAMS AT DROVE PRIMARY SCHOOL
ALL-NEW NISSAN MICRA MEET THE ACCOMPLICE Life’s always more interesting when you’ve got a partner in crime. With an audacious new look, alluring presence and advanced Intelligent Mobility Technologies, the all-new Nissan Micra is ready to shake things up.
YOUR SPACE, YOUR RULES. With 100 personalisation combinations to choose from, the All New Nissan Micra allows your individuality to shine through. THE FOLLOWING FEATURES COME AS STANDARD ON THE NISSAN MICRA: + 15” Steel Wheels
+ Intelligent Emergency Braking with Pedestrian detection
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Contact Fish Brothers Nissan on 01793 887500 or find out more details here: www.fish-bros.co.uk/nissan/new-cars/new-micra/ and book a test drive Fish Brothers Nissan, Fenn Close, Swindon SN5 5BL
Angus Macpherson Focus POSITIVE DIRECTION OF TRAVEL TO IMPROVE THE EXPERIENCE FOR PEOPLE DETAINED UNDER SECTION 136
Last Friday saw the first governance meeting of a new coalition, which began work in October last year to map out the pathway for people in crisis. Twenty-seven agencies, spanning police, ambulance, local government and health across Wiltshire and Avon, came together to consider the pathway and discuss how they might work together to improve the journey and experience for people in mental health crisis detained under section 136. Angus Macpherson, Police and Crime Commissioner for Wiltshire, and Sue Mountstevens, Police and Crime Commissioner for Avon and Somerset, were encouraged by the positive progress made in understanding what the complex journey for someone detained under section 136 currently looks and feels like. The PCC’s said: “Having listened to the views of staff involved at all stages of the journey, and people themselves who’ve experienced it, including children, we all agreed at PAGE 30
our meeting that we must and can do better. We’re all in the same position; austerity has impacted on all of us so we have a shared ambition to be as efficient and effective as we can in helping people in crisis and delivering compassionate services.” A detailed piece of work to understand and map the journey for people detained under section 136, from the very first contact, has provided strong foundations for moving forward. The next step is to test the rigour of the process so far, and prepare for the implementation of a more efficient Wiltshire and Avon-wide model - a single programme spanning the entire area. Those present at the meeting agreed that doing nothing is not an option; there was great support for the direction of travel so far and all agreed that changes in the imminent new Police and Crime Act create an extra catalyst for change and improvement.
There was widespread recognition at the meeting for the progress and momentum so far. Speaking on behalf of all agencies there, the PCC’s said: “We’ve listened to many voices – professionals and people who’ve experienced the section 136 journey – and we’d like to say thank you, on behalf of all the agencies, for their investment of time, commitment and energy.”
Kentwood The choir with a difference
Sheila Harrod Presents
Kentwood Showcase 2017 Kentwood's annual extravaganza, with wonderful choral singing, brilliant soloists and the Little Big Band under the direction of top West End musical director Paul Maguire bringing you an evening of sheer vocal magic.
CHINAKITCHEN fine oriental cuisine
A show not to be missed!
Saturday 20th May 2017 at 7:30pm Tickets: £16
Order online at
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The Kentwood Show Choir has chosen “Hope For Children” as their chosen charity for 2017.
01793 486868
*A 50 pence per ticket booking fee applies, capped at six per order. Fee-free booking
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Book early to avoid disappointment for Wyvern Friends; Groups of 10+ please call 01793 524481 to buy fee-free.
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Skate Did you know there are over 200 species of skate divided into two-subfamilies hardnose skate and softnose skate. They are very similar to Rays however they do differ in that skate lay their fertilized eggs in what is known as a mermaids purse and rays bear their young in their bodies and give birth to them alive, also rays are generally bigger than skate. Skate have a slow growth rate and are therefore susceptible to over fishing and in recent years have been subject to the endangered list. At the Lobster Pot we prefer to stock skate rather than rays and have found them to be particularly popular. One drawback of the skate is their rate of deterioration. They can go off quite quickly and are not good when they emit a strong smell of amonia. They are best eaten within 3-4 days of them being caught and should skinned and be a deep pink colour when sold. Having said that they have a wonderful sweet, soft and flavoursome taste. The flesh is pulled from the main cartilage a bit like strands of spaghetti. Apart from the classic recipe of skate with a caper butter, which I wrote about in an earlier article, why not try roasted skate with roast vine cherry tomatoes with a dijon dressing. First halve and oven roast some cherry vine tomatoes, drizzled with a good quality olive oil, sea salt and cracked black pepper in an oven at 200 degrees (gas 6). After about 10 minutes add the seasoned skate next to the tomatoes on a roasting tray and roast for another 10 minutes. To make the dressing- mix some olive oil, a splash of white wine vinegar, a teaspoon of dijon mustard, a squeeze of lemon and some capers together and pour over the fish and continue to cook for a further 2 minutes in the oven. Serve with some mashed potato, seasoned, and mixed with fine chopped leeks sweated in a little olive oil. Plain poached asparagus would make an ideal accompaniment. So what you waiting for? Get a ‘skate’ on and pop into the Wood Street Food Hall for this delicious recipe.
Tel: 01793 671050 www.woodstreetfoodhall.co.uk Wood Street Food Hall, 22 Wood Street, Swindon, Wiltshire, SN1 4AB PAGE 32
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”
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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. Tours can be set up at any time for students wishing to transfer from Primary or another Secondary Call 01793 487286 www.churchfields.org
Ask AMS
Advice for small businesses AMS Accountancy Ltd. 01793 818400 033 What are the benefits in being VAT registered? There are generally two reasons to register for VAT: Compulsory: When your sales exceed £83,000 in a 12 month period. Voluntary: If registering for VAT is a benefit to you (you can reclaim VAT paid on supplies and expenses). If you are VAT registered, you must also charge VAT to your clients. Simple when working for VAT registered clients but it can also be problematic. Example: A builder replaces a roof on a privately owned house. If he’s VAT registered, he can reclaim VAT he’s paid on supplies for the job. When billing customers, he will have to charge them VAT which they cannot claim back because they are not registered. If he’s not VAT registered, he cannot reclaim VAT on his supplies. However, his clients will happily also not have to pay VAT! Peter Bromiley ACA www.ask-ams.co.uk @AMSAccountancy www.ams-accountancy.co.uk PAGE 34
AMS Accountancy Ltd. is delighted to welcome Laura Dearing as a Senior Accountant. She is joining our team after working at Banks BHG for over 9 years where she qualified for AAT and ACCA and worked her way from a junior to an account manager. She is also an expert in cloud accounting. She will work with small businesses, provide management accounts (she has a passion for making things clear and understandable) and year end accounts for our clients. She will also support trainees and work on staff development.
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