Swindon Link Magazine February 2015 by Roger Ogle

No 393 February 2015

Swindon’s largest free news publication. Est. 1978

In print, online & mobile n Est readership: 84,000 n Monthly online visitors: 50,000+ Advertising starts from just £45 Contact us: T: 01793 602540 E: advertising@swindonlink.com

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Your guide to events happening around the town: P31-35

Former West Swindon primary school teacher honoured: P3

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Image up for national award PHOTOGRAPHER Damien Davis, who contributes to SwindonLink.com, has been shortlisted for the Daily Telegraph Outdoor Photographer Of The Year 2014. His shot ‘Shadow Birds’ was captured at Lechlade-OnThames in September last year and has appeared in national newspapers and magazines to critical acclaim. The image is shortlisted in the ‘At The Water’s Edge’ category. The overall winner of the seven category competition will win a polar dog sled expedition from sponsors FjÄllrÄven Arctic. Each category winner will receive a Fjällräven Kaipak 28 backpack and £200 prize money. Winners will be announced at the Telegraph Outdoor Adventure & Travel Show at

Damien Davis’ award-nominated ‘Shadow Birds’ picture London ExCeL on 15 February, and opoty.co.uk the following day. Search Damien at swindonlink.com to view galleries of his work.

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who deserves recognition, don’t hesitate to put their name forward. There are two types of award: one recognising individual commitment, the other for teams of people who help the community. Nominations of no more than 300 words explaining why the individual or the team is worthy of consideration can be made online at swindon.gov.uk/prideofswindon or by writing to Pride of Swindon Awards, Civic Offices, Euclid Street, Swindon SN1 2JH.

Director: James Phipps Group Editor: Anita Jaynes Digital Editor: Craig Lyus Associate: Roger Ogle Joint Heads of Sport: Andy Warren and Sam Morshead Photography: Richard Wintle, www.calyxpix.com

ADVERTISING Call 01793 602540 or email: advertising@swindonlink.com Closing date for March advertisements: 6 February MARCH EDITION Editorial deadline: 6 February Published: 21 February

Swindon Publications Ltd. Basepoint, Rivermead Drive, Swindon SN5 7EX T: 01793 608840; E: publisher@swindonlink.com Our Statistics Est. Readership of 84,000 in print & c.50,000 monthly online visitors. Swindon’s largest free publication. Advertising starts from just £45. The contents of The Link are protected by copyright. Use of advertisements in printed or electronic form is forbidden unless an advertiser or publisher has sought permission. Articles and photographs require similar authority. Swindon Publications Ltd. cannot be held responsible for goods or services or the copyright of content supplied by our advertisers. Reg. in England & Wales. No: 4513027, at Dauntsey House, Stonehill Green, Westlea, Swindon. Printed by pcp Telford

MBE for teacher remembered by thousands of pupils FORMER West Swindon primary school headteacher Margaret Williams was awarded the MBE in the New Year’s Honours list announced on 30 December. Margaret, 83, from Old Town has been recognised for her services to the Anglican Diocese of Bristol and the community of Swindon. For the last 23 years since she retired she has been a highly dedicated worker at Christ Church in Old Town. She spent 40 years as a teacher and was the first headteacher of Oliver Tomkins Church of England Infant School in Toothill between 1980 and 1991. Rev Simon Stevenette, vicar of Christ Church and area dean Margaret, centre, with the late Bishop of Bristol Rev Oliver Tomkins, of Swindon, said: “Margaret is a visiting the school in Toothill in June 1991 with his daughter Ursula wonderful person; I can’t think of The first female Church of England are delighted that their former anybody who deserves the honour headteacher will be travelling to more. Her empathy with both young Bishop was recently announced; I feel the pieces are falling into place Buckingham Palace later in the year. and old is obvious. She has built for women in the church. “The honour is really well deserved. an outstanding funeral ministry “My work is a tremendous Margaret is an amazing lady who at Christ Church; her support and has given of herself to ministry. Her understanding for bereaved families privilege. To help a bereaved family link to the school continues to be is a great comfort at times of need.” in need of solace and guidance is the real honour.” strong and she regularly visits. Her Margaret said: “I’m not sure I Rhian Cockwell, headteacher of Palm Sunday assembly is a highlight deserve an MBE, yet there is a lovely the now combined Oliver Tomkins of the year; the children love symmetry in being picked as 40 infant and junior primary school, making palm crosses whilst she tells years ago I was the first woman Swindon 1 13/01/2015 10:36 Page 1 governors said she and the school the story from the Bible.” lay ministerAdvert.qxp_Layout in the Swindon area.

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West Swindon business centre celebrates a decade in the town

Manager Lyn Chapman toasts ten years for Basepoint

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BASEPOINT Business Centre at Rivermead Drive, home to over 90 small and medium sized firms, celebrates ten years in operation this year. The occasion will be marked on Wednesday 4 February when the Mayor of Swindon Theresa Page unveils a commemorative plaque. On the same day Basepoint will host a free networking lunch for licencees and business in the wider community. Lyn Chapman became centre manager 18 months after the building opened and has worked hard to establish Basepoint in the town. The Link met with Lyn to find out more about her challenges over

the years, successes and plans for 2015 and beyond.

LINK: What’s been the biggest challenge during your time at Basepoint? LC: I started at Basepoint in 2006 and recession hit two years later. The market conditions made it very difficult to ensure the centre had a sustainable number of tenants. Being a new facility, the excellent location and the Basepoint easy-in, easy out terms are our major selling points, which I’ve emphasised at networking events. The majority of our clients come from existing client recommendations. Building and sustaining excellent relations with our licencees is key to this. LINK: What’s changed in the last 10 years? LC: The company’s ethos is to continually keep abreast of what’s happening in the marketplace and we are constantly updating our offering. In March 2014 we extended the car park and we’ve also invested in improved internet and telecoms packages. Keeping up appearances is also really important and in February a partial refurbishment will commence, with new carpets being installed in the hallways and refreshed paintwork. LINK: What do you think makes Basepoint different? LC: Uniquely Basepoint is wholly owned by a charitable trust, the ACT Foundation-the Airlines Charitable Trust - set up by British Airways 20 years ago. All of Basepoint’s taxable profits are donated under Gift Aid to the foundation. The first Basepoint Business Centre was launched in Romsey, Hampshire and is still going strong. LINK: What has been your business highlight? LC: December 2014 was a real cause for celebration. We hit a 100 per cent occupancy rate for the first time which See details of the Basepoint was really exciting Hub networking and indicates the event on 4 Febuar marketplace is y at: basepoint.co.u improving a lot. k/ locations/swindo A personal n/ networkinghub highlight was receiving the Basepoint employee of the year award in 2010. It was highly unexpected and I felt immensely proud to be recognised by the company for all my effort and contribution towards its success.

Justice for Becky gets to Downing Street ALMOST four years ago on 4 April 2011 Karen Edwards from West Swindon was given the devastating news that her daughter Becky, who had disappeared in 2003, had been murdered. Eighteen months later Swindon taxi driver Christopher Halliwell was convicted of abducting and murdering Swindon office worker Sian O’Callaghan. But during the trial evidence regarding Becky was ruled inadmissable because Police & Criminal Evidence Act guidelines had not been followed. During a

fast moving investigation, Halliwell, despite confessing to killing Becky, had not been correctly cautioned and his evidence had not been recorded in the presence of a solicitor at a police station. Rather than giving in to her grief, Karen started a campaign to change the law and called for mobile, recording technology to be used in gathering evidence in the field. On 14 January, with the help of South Swindon MP Robert Buckland, Karen presented a 40,000 name petition calling for changes to PACE to 10 Downing Street. To her surprise Karen was invited in to talk to the Prime Minister’s policy advisor Max Chambers. “I didn’t realise until a few hours beforehand that I would have the chance to explain the case in detail,” she said. “Max said he had been instructed by David Cameron to progress policy changes. The campaign goes back to my meeting with Justice Minister Damian Green and Robert Buckland in 2013 when I called for sentences that fit the crime Karen and Charlie Edwards with Robert and changes to PACE so that Buckland MP, left, outside No 10 the accused and investigating

officers are protected. “I will always have a hole in my heart for Becky, which will never be fixed. But it’s from my heart that I’d like to thank all who have given such incredible support: Robert Buckland has given his expertise and guided me in the campaign, as well as all those people who displayed the petition in their businesses, or took it around, and all the thousands who signed it. “It was a surreal day, one which exceeded my expectations, I think we’ll see change in the law.”

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New air ambulance helicopter takes to the skies to serve county

WILTSHIRE Air Ambulance’s new helicopter was quickly pressed into action on its first day of operation, Friday 9 January, when the first duty crew were tasked with airlifting a patient from a road traffic accident outside Cirencester. Within hours of being given clearance to fly missions, the new Bell helicopter took off from the air ambulance base in Devizes and arrived on the scene 11 minutes later. Air ambulance critical care paramedics Richard Miller and Ross Culligan worked with land ambulance paramedics to treat a 26 year old man trapped in a truck on the scene. After fire fighters freed the man from the vehicle, the The team who flew and supported the first mission with the new air ambulance outside the GWH. patient was flown to Great Western Rear from left: Steve Riddle, pilot George Lawrence, Ross Culligan. Front :Jo Munday and Richard Miller Hospital in just five minutes. Paramedic Richard Miller said: “We were pleased to assist our aircraft shared with Wiltshire Police David Philpott, chief executive WAA is a charity which relies land ambulance colleagues and is fitted out with the most up of WAA, said: “Our best wishes go entirely on public donations to keep in treating and to date Aerolite equipment to the patient airlifted on our first airborne. Now that it is entirely The servic e transporting the to meet the highest day. It’s thanks to the people of independent, it has to meet an is available patient. All the helicopter emergency Wiltshire who raise money for us annual cost of £2.5 million, that’s hours a d up to 19 ay, 365 d crew are proud to that keeps Wiltshire Air Ambulance £6,850 per day. ays a medical service (HEMS) year. Late r in 2015 serve on Wiltshire specification. flying and delivering the best At wiltshireairambulance.co.uk W AA will move Air Ambulance.” Carrying two critical possible medical care to people in you can see video stories from coverage to 24 hour , one of th WAA is the first care paramedics, the need.” people who explain how the service e few in Britain able to air ambulance helicopter also flies faster Funded by you, flying for you is has made a real difference to their respond 2 4/7 charity to operate the making rapid response to the slogan printed on the fuselage lives. And find out how you can get Bell 429 helicopter. The any incident within Wiltshire of the Wiltshire Air Ambulance involved in helping WAA continue interior is larger than the previous achievable within minutes. helicopter. its vital service.

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Time to start planning for Swindon 175 NEXT year marks 175 years since New Swindon came into being and Steam Museum income generation manager Ian Surtees is calling on residents to find out more about the town’s history and to look at what they can do to contribute to the celebration. In 1840 railway engineer Daniel Gooch, who surveyed the route for a new railway to run from London to Bristol, wrote to Isambard Kingdom Brunel recommending that the Great Western Railway company build a refuelling and repair workshop in farm fields in the county of Wiltshire, below the small hilltop town of Swindon. Brunel and the board accepted the proposal and the rest is history as they say. But for Ian, 1841 is the year when things started to happen, no doubt to the horror of the good burghers of Swindon at the time. “It’s the year when work actually started on site, the year when the foundations of what we know as Swindon today were laid; it’s the reason why we are all here now,” said Ian. “The railways were the highest form of technology of the day

2016 a significant year for the town’s people to ask ‘why are you here?’

King George V, the iconic Swindon works engine, dressed to celebrate part of the town’s history. From the Roy Nash image collection and were the driving force of the industrialisation of Britain. Swindon played a major role in that process and we should celebrate it.” Ian said former Swindon councillor David Glaholm had suggested 2016 was a worthwhile anniversary. Five years ago, then-Swindon Advertiser editor Dave King wrote an article explaining why it was important to mark the year. Speaking to The Link, he said: “I was trying to promote 175 years as a catalyst to celebrate all that is good about the town. This was in

2010 to give the town five years to prepare. One meeting was held with the council and interested parties such as Forward Swindon, but nothing ever came of it.” Ian agrees that 175 years is more than just history and heritage. “Planning is just starting and we want to hear of projects and initiatives that will get the people of Swindon involved in some way to ask the question: why are you here? “It would be great to hear from businesses who provide so many job opportunities and from individuals,

community groups and schools who have ideas about how the anniversary can be celebrated. “Let’s shake off whatever negativity there is about Swindon. This is an opportunity for everybody to participate in what makes Swindon great.” Ian added that negotiations are taking place with the National Railway Museum in York to bring back two iconic products of Swindon railway works: King George V and the City of Truro. Exhibitions and special events are being planned at Steam and Lydiard House. Discussions are also taking place with the two oldest businesses in Swindon. Deacon’s in Old Town are looking at producing celebration timepieces, and Arkell’s will brew an anniversary beer. Ian would also like Gooch’s crucial letter, now in the national archives at Kew, to be displayed at Steam. If you have an idea about how 2016 can be marked, email: isurtees@swindon.gov.uk n Vote for Steam’s tourism hero: P21.

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Protesting in November against Taylor Wimpey’s proposal to build next to Lydiard Park, from left, Wiltshire councillor Mollie Groom, James Gray, Robert Buckland, Swindon councillors Tim Swinyard and Nick Martin

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IN RECENT years the parish of Purton has been under pressure from developers. Some larger proposals have been successful (Moredon Bridge, Ridgeway Farm) and some have not (Widham Farm). In the case of the first two, this was never about whether or not Purton needed the houses. It was more about what developers felt they could obtain approval for, within the limits of existing plans and government policies. Although the previous government’s Regional Spatial Strategy was dispensed with in 2010, in planning terms it left a legacy of argument that helped Moredon Bridge and Ridgeway Farm become a reality. There was never any planning logic for either site. Both Swindon Borough Council and Wiltshire Council had clear growth plans, and they didn’t include Moredon Bridge and Ridgeway Farm. Yet, developers were able to argue differently, quite cynically, that Purton was able to take more houses and had a housing need, even though they were right next to Swindon. Following the cabinet’s acceptance, with minor conditions, the full Wiltshire Council met on 20 January to approve the Wiltshire Core Strategy. This set out the framework for all future housing developments in the county, excluding Swindon which has its own Core Strategy in place. Any local (neighbourhood) plans will need to align with the policies described in the strategy. The general direction of the

Purton-based environmentalist Richard Pagett explains why he hopes the Wiltshire Core Strategy will constrain Swindon Wiltshire Core Strategy is that major housing will be centred on the existing larger settlements, those with plenty of facilities to support a growing population. Any remaining housing is then spread among the community areas according to laid down criteria. The logic is that such housing should be at locations capable of supporting that housing. For instance, the Strategy classifies Cricklade as a Local Service Centre which means it is capable of supporting some limited housing. Purton is considered a Large Village and is protected from speculative development by a settlement boundary, outside of which general housing development is forbidden. The Strategy does not allow development outside the settlement boundary unless proposed in an approved neighbourhood plan or resulting from a settlement boundary review by Wiltshire Council. There will be such a review around late Spring to mid-Summer. Until then, there is unlikely to be any large-scale housing applications approved in Purton. Indeed, a housing application for over 30 houses in Purton was recently refused.

A PUBLIC meeting organised by five residents’ associations in North and West Swindon attracted 120 people on 13 January to hear why Swindon Council should show some urgency in making the case to extend Thamesdown Drive to Barnfield Road. It was called after Swindon Council released another consultant’s report in December which said providing such a road would have benefit but attracting central government support would be difficult. The report says less expensive measures to improve traffic flow on Akers Way and turning parts of Mead Way into dual carriageway should be considered. The association representatives all expressed frustration at the delays in completing a western bypass for the town which was identified as required when North Swindon was being planned over 20 years ago. Haydon Wick Parish Council chairman John Stooke said: “We’ve been to many presentations where the link from North Swindon to Great Western Way has been discussed as a priority but now it’s considered less important. We need action, not more talking.” Rodbourne councillor Des Moffat said that Cheney Manor Industrial

Public meeting calls on council to take Thamesdown Drive action

Viewing a possible route for Thamesdown Drive, from left John Stooke, chair of Haydon Wick Parish Council, Richard Hailstone, former chair, Bill King of Whitworth Road residents association, Kevin Fisher of Shaw Estate is in desperate need of regeneration and the council, with 25 per cent ownership of the land is in a position to drive it. Shaw Residents’ Association chair Kevin Fisher told the meeting that, in addition to the 2,770 houses with permission to be built to the north and west of the town, his survey of employment areas off Mead Way showed there is 455,00 square feet of existing but unused space. “It’s equivalent to ten acres of land, or over six County Ground pitches that could be used to create jobs,” he said. “If the economy really took off and we see inward investment, imagine the level of

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traffic there would be on Mead Way - in addition to the near grid-lock situation we sometimes see now. “The council has to think beyond short term adjustments. It will take at least ten years to plan and build the link road. “What will Mead Way and Akers Way be like if the town is successful and carries on expanding, in addition to all the traffic that comes in from north Wiltshire?” The consultant’s report prices the extension at around £52million and the meeting called on Swindon Council to commit to the £600,000 needed for detailed design so that

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government will see Swindon has a ‘shovel ready’ infrastructure project. At the meeting the council’s Cabinet Member for Strategic Planning and Sustainability and Transport Cllr Dale Heenan, said extending Thamesdown Drive is something residents, councillors of all parties and our MPs have wanted to see but all options should be considered before final commitments are made He said: “I want to see progress on this issue in 2015 and I’m calling on political parties and interested groups to come together to contribute to discussions about regenerating Cheney Manor and developing the right road infrastructure.” The full council meeting on 22 January agreed to set up a Future Transport Infrastructure Working Group to come up with long term proposals on the way forward to relieving traffic congestion. South Swindon MP Robert Buckland told The Link that he was ready to take a proposal to government. He said: “I’m as frustrated by the delay in progressing Thamesdown Drive as anybody. I really want Swindon Council and its consultants to show ambition in seeking investment in the town.”

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n THE North Swindon Locality next meets on Tuesday 10 February, 6.30pm for 7pm, at North Swindon Library at Orbital Shopping Centre. Highways, road maintenance and parking will be some of the topics to be discussed. Email herobinson@swindon.co.uk n THE next meeting of Redhouse Residents’ Association takes place at Brimble Hill School at the Learning Campus on Thursday 29 January, 7pm. For details contact Coun Vera Tomlinson on 01793 703751.

Correction: Treasurer needed The contact number for Freshbrook Community Centre given in the January Link was incorrect. The management committee at the centre is desperate to recruit a treasurer to oversee the financial affairs of the two buildings it manages. If you could take responsibility for the accounts for the charity, please contact Emma Tanner on 01793 870526, 9am to 12noon weekdays.

available. Most ingredients are organic, home grown, or sourced locally. As well as refreshments there are farm tours when visitors can meet the friendly sheep, the kune-kune pigs, and the chickens and ducks which roam the farm yard. Children will learn how the animals live, feed them, look for and collect eggs and there may be lambs and chicks in the Spring. Follow the trail round the farm hunting for mini-beasts, peering in the ponds for frogs, looking for flowers, and listening for birdsong. Find out how vegetables grow and taste them; feel the warmth in the polytunnel, and meet the recycled scarecrow. Bread baking for Beginners: 27, 28 February or 1 March, 9.30am to 2pm. These three courses will introduce you to the joy of selecting ingredients, stirring, kneading, proving, and baking. Learn a tried and tested method for making a yeasted bread dough, which can then be used for loaves, rolls, pizza, fruited breads and more. You will also learn how to make a rye sourdough loaf, which is ideal for those wishing to cut down on wheat. The cost is £57 per person and includes ingredients, recipe sheets, refreshments, a simple lunch and the bread to take home. Book online at lowershawfarm.co.uk or email: andrea@lowershawfarm.co.uk Classes in the Hayloft Studio A variety of yoga, Pilates and meditation classes take place in The Hayloft. Many are drop in sessions and prices start from £5. Lower Shaw Farm offers a wide range of day and weekend courses covering crafts, cookery, keeping chickens and circus skills. See more at lowershawfarm.co.uk

Ten years and counting for local property agent PROPERTY sales and letting agent McFarlane is celebrating just completing their tenth year in business. The company was launched in 2004 by North Swindon resident Shaun Picken. Starting out as a home based operation the business has expanded into three offices in Swindon, Cricklade and Wroughton, with a staff of 12. Shaun had always had an interest in property and with the birth of his children he decided to give up his military career to manage his own properties. He had worked with a number of agents on his portfolio, but often felt the service wasn’t quite what he would expect. He subsequently thought he could do a better job and picked his mother’s maiden name as a suitable company name. Shaun told Swindon Link: “It came to a point where I asked, why not bite the bullet and set up my own agency? “As a landlord myself I fully understood the challenges and costs property owners often face. I believed I could offer a service with greater support and understanding. I feel we’ve done just that.” The business grew primarily through recommendations and in 2010, through customer demand, it expanded to offer a more complete package, by including a sales service in addition to lettings.

McFarlane pride themselves on providing a professional and personal service and believe that this has been the key to their longevity and success. Shaun also regards it as an important feature of the business to involve employees and helps charities through a number of events throughout the year. In the Autumn staff organised a cup cake sale and raffle in aid of Children In Need and in the run up to Christmas they held a guess the penguin name competition to raise vital funds for Swindon CALM (Children’s Cancer and Leukaemia The McFarlane team, toasting 10 years in Swindon Movement).

Hospice fundraising picking up pace PROSPICE Hospice is marking its 35th year and is keen to include everyone in celebration fundraisers. Key events in the calendar are the Starlight Walk in June and the annual garden fete in September, but there are lots of chances to get involved throughout the year. On Sunday 22 February the demanding, cross-country Prospect 10k offers a major challenge, but the gentle, family friendly Walk of Memories on Sunday 15 March could be a good alternative. Events fundraiser Genevieve Arney said: “Our programme of events is designed to appeal to as many people as possible, to offer the opportunity for people to show their support for their local hospice in their own way. We have familiar favourites as well as some new events which we think will be very popular. This includes Run the Rainbow in September, a fun 5km run where coloured powder paint is thrown at the runners so that we have a multicoloured finish.” See details of fundraising events at prospect-hospice.net/events

Thinking of SELLING or RENTING your Property Call your local office now for some FANTASTIC New Year Offers*

Call us Now

or pop into one of our offices: High Street CRICKLADE 01793 751044

Wood Street SWINDON 01793 611841

High Street WROUGHTON 01793 812546

*All new clients who sell or let their property with McFarlane Sales & Lettings during January & February 2015 will receive an exclusive discount

www.mcfarlaneproperty.com swindonlink.com n February 2015

New Isambard leaders aim to improve Ofsted view View Isambard Community Scho ol’s full Ofsted report at: isambard. swindon.sch.uk

School is making clear headway on a ‘journey towards outstanding’ under acting headteacher ISAMBARD Community School was inspected by Ofsted on 26 and 27 November and was judged to be requiring improvement. However the actions of the interim leadership team that took over last September were rated as good and this sets the scene for regaining the overall good status the school had at the last inspection. Sue Banks, a member of the senior leadership team since the school opened in 2007, was appointed acting headteacher after Rachael Mattey took early retirement in July. The inspectors were impressed by current management of the school, due to the significant changes that have been implemented by the new team. But they have not had enough time to demonstrate the full effect of their work. Ofsted believe students have not made as much progress as they should have, especially in mathematics. Homework is not used sufficiently to enable students to consolidate and extend their learning, and to accelerate

their progress; and teachers do not always have high enough expectations of what students can achieve. As a result, they do not consistently give students work that stretches them enough to make as much progress as possible. They also comment that students’ behaviour requires improvement because, when activities fail to engage or maintain their interest, they can become distracted or distract others from their work. In addition teachers are not consistent in their application of the school’s rules for behaviour in class. Ms Banks said: “Staff at Isambard are fully aware of the school’s development priorities for this year which correlate with the findings in the Ofsted report. The school is on a journey towards outstanding and this report shows that it has already made significant headway into reaching that goal. “The focus will now be on ensuring consistency, in terms of teaching and learning, in every classroom. The quality of

Isambard’s interim head, Sue Banks working with students current students’ work shows that achievement is improving significantly. “Moving forward, the school will be using homework more, as recommended by the inspection team, in order to extend students’ learning and further accelerate their progress. The overall outcome of the inspection is that the school ‘requires improvement’ as there has not been long enough for the initiatives already implemented to be consistently and effectively applied across the school. This will

now be the key focus for all staff during the coming months. “The report recognised that students feel safe in the school and are well cared for. Students said that incidents of bullying are rare and that any reported are swiftly dealt with. “There was considerable praise for the pastoral system and the widerange of enrichment opportunities at the school which make a strong contribution to students’ spiritual, moral, social and cultural development.”

Anthony Moglione presenting the Involve Swindon 10th anniversary certificate to Clive Zimmerman, right, and assistant head Chris Dobbs

Voluntary work comes with money LYDIARD Park Academy were surprised in the Autumn that not only had staff from Intel volunteered to help the school, they were also presented with a cheque for £3,000 from the Intel Foundation. Through the Involve Swindon corporate volunteering scheme, Intel and the academy have worked together since 2011. Employees have been involved in practical projects like gardening and decorating, to working with students on money management and life skills and taking business

swindonlink.com n February 2015

classes including Dragon’s Den presentations. Intel liaison manager Anthony Moglione said the long term contact with the academy was a very positive experience. He added: “Our involvement has been excellent for teamwork and personal development. We’ve been really impressed by the behaviour and engagement of the students and have learnt a lot from them.” Headteacher Clive Zimmerman said: “It’s been a great relationship which has benefited students and the school.”

Bid for new secondary schools under scrutiny NEW College Swindon and the Diocese of Bristol Academies Trust (DBAT) have both been successful in reaching the interview stage for their bids to set up Free Schools in Swindon and will present their proposals to the Department of Education on 26 January The Diocese of Bristol Academies Trust’s bid focuses the southern and central areas of Swindon. New College proposes a new 11 to 18 secondary school in North Swindon. Their school, the Great Western Academy, will follow the national curriculum, but also focus on business, enterprise and IT. It will provide 250 Year 7 places and plans to open in September 2016. Both project bids successfully received enough signatures of support and community backing to enable them to be formally submitted. New College principal Graham Taylor, pictured, said: “We’re delighted to reach the next stage of the process. We know the Department of Education have been seeking confirmation from Swindon Council that new schools are needed in the town and we’re looking forward to explaining how we will provide the best possible secondary school. “In particular we’re planning to operate a long day from 8.30am to 5pm and we’re looking forward to explaining how this will be organised.” New College has experience in delivering major expansion projects at its Queen’s Drive site, but to ensure that its experience in further education provision is aligned with the requirements of managing a secondary school the academy advisory board has been bolstered with a current secondary headteacher from Swindon and the

VACANCIES West Swindon Family Centre is looking for two part-time Early Years Practitioners to work in our Panda group (term time only) You will have a minimum NVQ Level 3 or equivalent child care qualification, be enthusiastic and self-motivated. Closing date: 20 February 2015 (Interviews planned for week of 2 March)

Please apply to: Marie Rodden, West Swindon Family Centre 15 Gainsborough Way, Freshbrook Swindon SN5 8PD Email: marierodden@westswindoncc.org Or via: www.westswindonfamilycentre.com West Swindon Family Centre is an equal opportunities employer and is committed to the safeguarding and welfare of children

New College principal Graham Taylor managing director of Oxford Open Learning Trust Dr Nick Smith. Mr Taylor added: “We’ve had great support from parents who have expressed interest in their children attending the academy, particularly the focus on business & IT. Youngsters need the right skills and attitude to survive in our fast-changing modern economy. We hope to help them on that journey.” The Diocese of Bristol Academies Trust’s proposal is for a secondary school with a distinctive Christian ethos, catering for pupils from all over the town who wish to continue their education in a Church school. John Swainston, Chief Officer for the Diocese of Bristol Academies Trust said; “We are committed to help young people develop into balanced, capable and innovative adults.”

English, Mathematics and Science Fully qualified teachers Accelerated GCSE programme 11+ training and preparation Free assessment and first lesson Boost your child’s confidence

C N vo hild E W ac uc ca ce he re pt rs ed

What life is all about

Croft Primary hosting pampering session BE PAMPERED at Croft Primary School on Thursday 5 February, 7pm-10pm, with a night of manicures, waxing, massages, makeup advice and much more. £5 on the door (includes drink, nibbles and raffle ticket). Facebook: The Croft Primary School PTA

Police cadets to launch in April THE Neighbourhood Police Team in West Swindon has announced they are recruiting 13 to 18 year olds to join the second police cadet unit in the Wiltshire Constabulary. There will be places for 25 young people who will meet on Thursdays, 6pm to 8pm, during term time, at Lydiard Park Academy, starting after the Easter holidays. The unit will be coordinated by NPT beat manager PC Gary Bracey who said: “There will be structured activities and guest speakers as

well as parades and drills. Broadly speaking it will be based on police cadet training, but with similarities to other uniformed youth groups like the Scouts. After initial training, cadets will be able to observe police at work first hand and assist at public events. Last year members of the first cadet unit at Highworth attended the summer solstice at Stonehenge and the WOMAD festival. To register interest, email: cadets@wiltshire.pnn.police.uk

OPEN MORNING

An Education for Life

Sat 7 March 2015 9.30am-12noon

www.thepriorfoundation.com swindonlink.com n February 2015

The Springboard to Confidence for your child Britain’s leading National Active Physical Play programme for children from 6 months to 7 years. Your child will learn agility, balance, climbing, co-ordination appropriate to his or her age. Structured programmes designed to build self confidence and develop essential listening and language skills. Supervised by trained staff in a fun and caring environment.

Tumble Tots now in your area! For information about local centres call

Liz Davies on 0844 800 0219 www.tumbletots.com/swindon

LittLe Foxes ChiLdCare & eduCation

FOR CHILDREN AND THEIR PARENTS Established 1986 The Common, Brinkworth, Wilts Tel: 01666 510356

Just a 15 minute drive from West Swindon & Priory Vale on B4042

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An independent family run nursery offering quality care and education within a safe, secure, stimulating environment for all babies and children from 0-5 and an out of school club for children aged 5-11 years Open: Monday to Friday, 7.30am-6.30pm, 51 weeks of the year Full, part time and term time places. Government funding for 3-5 year olds High staff to child ratios with qualified and experienced teaching staff and nursery nurses Nutritious 3 course meals, hydro pool, multi sensory room, school hall with gym apparatus, secure gardens, mini bus for trips out and about

ISTD - Ballet - Tap - Modern - Jazz Contemporary Street Jazz Musical Theatre & RAD Major Ballet BRING THIS ADVERT AND GET FIRST TWO WEEKS FREE

Classes from 21/2 years upwards. Lessons held at: The Haydon Centre Haydonleigh School Abbeymeads Community School Blunsdon Village Halls

Tel: 07825 543529 or 01793 524112 Visit our website for more details: www.swindonacademyofdance.co.uk 14

swindonlink.com n February 2015

Meningitis warning following tragic death of Highworth boy THE sad death of a Highworth six-year-old named Miles from suspected meningococcal meningitis at Great Western Hospital on 19 December brings home how suddenly and unexpectedly this deadly virus can strike. Identifying the signs and symptoms can help a quick diagnosis and a much better chance of recovery. Stroud based charity Meningitis Now was set up to save lives and rebuild futures by funding research, raising awareness of what to look for and provide support to the families of those who contract the virus. Meningitis is frightening because it can strike quickly and kill within hours or leave sufferers with lifechanging after-effects. The disease can affect anyone, but babies and infants are most at risk, and ages 15 to 24 are also a high-risk group. In the UK it kills more underfives than any other infectious disease, and survivors can suffer after-effects such as brain damage, epilepsy and limb loss. Meningitis occurs when the brain and spinal cord’s protective lining – the meninges – inflame, usually due to bacterial or viral infection. There are many forms, but knowing the symptoms and seeking medical help immediately saves lives. There are vaccines against some types, but not all. n Bacterial meningitis can kill and requires urgent medical treatment including antibiotics. The sooner treatment is given, the more likely a person will fully recover. n Septicaemia, the blood poisoning form, can see sufferers lose limbs. There are about 3,200 UK bacterial meningitis and septicaemia cases annually. One in 10 people die and at least a third of survivors suffer lifelong after-effects such as hearing

loss, epilepsy, limb loss or learning difficulties n Viral meningitis is more common than bacterial meningitis, but less dangerous. Sufferers feel unwell, but rest and painkillers usually see people fully recover without hospital treatment. The symptoms are similar to bacterial meningitis, but are often milder. However, early on, it is sometimes hard to tell the difference. Some people will suffer after-effects such as recurring headaches, memory loss, deafness, exhaustion and co-ordination difficulties. n Symptoms: Meningitis and septicaemia can happen simultaneously. Symptoms can appear in any order or may not appear. They include: headache, dislike of bright lights, stiff neck, confusion, lethargy, joint/muscle pain, fever, vomiting and diarrhoea. Septicaemia symptoms include cold hands and feet, leg pain, abnormal skin colour and a pin-prick rash that does not fade under pressure. Symptoms in babies include high-pitched crying, poor feeding, mottled skin and a bulging soft spot on head (fontanelle). n The tumbler test: People with septicaemia may develop a pinprick rash. Press a clear glass firmly against the rash and roll. If it does not fade – seek medical help immediately. If the rash fades, keep checking, on rare occasions the rash can change.

Meningitis Now executive founder Steve Dudman has dedicated his life to the fight against the disease since his 14-month-old son Spencer died in 1982. He said: “Only through people’s kindness, energy and enthusiasm can we fight the disease on all fronts – fund pioneering preventative research, raise lifesaving awareness and support survivors and their families.” To donate to the charity, for a free symptoms pack or app, or for more information, call 0808 80 10 388, email: info@meningitisnow.org or see: MeningitisNow.org

IT MIGHT seem strange but children can learn a great deal from making mud pies and at St Francis Primary School in Taw Hill they have their own mud kitchen. Built by Year 2 teacher Andrew Farmer from pallets donated by Optimise, who have constructed Thames Water flood storage tanks in the area, children now dress up in wellies and outdoor gear for regular outdoor learning sessions. Andrew said: “Our school is really committed to providing practical learning opportunities in the environment. “The mud kitchen allows children to estimate and measure volume and capacity without the restrictions of a classroom. “They can get muddy and splash water about without anybody worrying. “There’s science involved in learning about mud, wood and leaves in our outdoor woodland. Improved verbal skills and team work are also an outcome.” Andrew added that parents have been keen to support the project and have donated pots, pans and colanders to ensure every child in

preschool gymnastics where an early start makes a world of difference!

Mud pies on the curriculum a class can be involved at the same time. Apart from three outdoor sessions per term, children can use the mud kitchen during playtime, so long as they wear wet weather clothing. Andrew is hoping there will be snow before Spring arrives. “The weather has been wet and mild since the kitchen was completed in November. Our intention is to use it in every kind of weather so teaching the science of snow will be fun for all of us.

daily classes for the under 5’s

01793 822262

www.esprit-gymnastics.co.uk

n FORMER Westlea Primary School headteacher Neil Griffiths has released his latest children’s book The Jolly Dodgers which is full of puny pirates who pretend to be nasty. It’s packed with nutty characters who will have both children and parents chuckling at their crazy antics. Order a copy from cornertolearn.co.uk and follow Neil on Facebook at Red Robin Books.

Please call us at Windmill Hill to arrange a nursery tour just for you and we will look forward to welcoming you to our Outstanding Nursery

swindonlink.com n February 2015

Head Rush ✂

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Cut & Blow Dry

£25

(in February with this advert, excludes Saturdays)

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Open Tuesday to Saturday. Late night Wed & Thurs Free parking

Julie, Gemma, Emi & Kathy

www.headrushsalon.co.uk

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UK’s only full time Ninjutsu dojo • Family discounts • Small class sizes • Street awareness

Some of the many skills you will learn: locking, striking, throws, takedowns, pressure points, escape & breakaway techniques, multiple attackers, defence against weapons and more..... Call now to arrange your free trial: 07727 653852

www.bujinmartialarts.com

It was in cr helpful to have edibly Outset. the sup Withou port of t them have kn I continu own where to wouldn’t ed netw begin. T ork he an asse t to me ing events are as a loca also l b u si n Alex Se ess. ck

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er, 22six Pr oductio ns, Outset client

Now there’s an idea. Have you ever had an idea for a business but were unsure who to ask for help? Outset Swindon has the solution. We offer people in Swindon access to FREE support to help start their own business. Our programme is fully-funded by the European Regional Development Fund and Swindon Borough Council. Our range of services includes information sessions, business start-up workshops, one-to-one guidance and help with accessing finance. This is not an academic qualification but hands-on vocational support and guidance tailored for you.

Information Sessions

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To find out more and book your place call us on freephone 0800 080 3024, email us at info@outsetswindon.co.uk or visit www.outsetswindon.co.uk

Business Start Up

swindonlink.com n February 2015

Ninjitsu master is one of the few AFTER dedicating over 25 years of his life building up his knowledge of the Japanese martial art of Ninjutsu, 45-year-old Paul Stubbs from Stratton has reached 15th Dan, the highest level possible, and has established the very first dojo exclusively for his sport in Swindon. Based at BSS House on Cheney Manor Industrial Estate, Bujin Martial Arts offers classes for adults and children during evenings and weekends. Paul was assessed and awarded a 15th Dan during a visit to Japan in 2013 and he is one of an elite group

Bujin Martial Arts We offer: • Separate adult & junior classes • Lessons 6 days/week • Outdoor training • Close protection skills

Paul Stubbs, now a Ninjitsu 15th Dan

of only 20 practitioners in the UK and approximately 300 across the world. He said: “I travel to Japan twice a year to train under Dr Masaaki Hatsumi, the sport’s grandmaster. “Ninjutsu is all-encompassing, providing physical, mental and practical lifestyle benefits. “What you learn in the dojo you can use in the office, and for children the art helps them develop confidence, respect, focus and discipline.” See the advert left for details of Bujin and to discuss a free trial.

Giving hard of hearing a fair chance

A CAMPAIGN to make more public hard-of-hearing customers. and commercial buildings deaf The survey’s ‘secret shoppers’ friendly is holding a free training discovered that where loops event at the National Trust HQ, next are available they are generally to the Designer Outlet, to involve working, but that signs pointing out more people in becoming aware of loop availability can be very poor. the needs of those who are unable In one case the sign was entirely to hear clearly. hidden behind a display of sweets, Many buildings have not the explanation being that Register yet fitted hearing loops ‘there is nowhere else to a free pla for to help the hard of put the sweets’. ce at the Let’s Loo hearing communicate Supermarkets with p Swindo n training e better, or they are loops often only vent on 25 Febru ary. Con badly signed or don’t have a few of their tac Tim Maso n: tim.ma t work properly tills equipped and so n@ 1100rota Hearing loops can be volunteers found ryclub.org found in shops, banks that they were not in and many public buildings, operation. providing a magnetic, wireless Let’s Loop Swindon is a signal which can be picked up by project run by Rotary Clubs in a hearing aid when it is set to the the town and hearing loss charity Telecoil (T setting). They cut out Hearing Link www.hearinglink.org. exterior noise and ensure that The campaign has received a hearing aid wearer can hear government recognition only a without any confusion. month after getting off the ground In November volunteers from in the town. The Department for Let’s Loop Swindon audited 29 Works and Pensions together with pharmacies in the town and found the Office for Disability Issues only ten had effective working has highlighted what’s happening loops. They found in the other 18 here in a case study entitled: that loops either did not work or ‘How private, public and voluntary had not been installed. organisations are improving access A similar survey of 50 for hearing impaired people in supermarkets in the town found Swindon. nearly two thirds have not installed The training session is open to a hearing loop to support their business and building managers.

Massage offer to relieve winter blues MIA Mamuda has always felt the power of healing in her hands which she puts down to being expected to give head massages to her mother and sisters in her extended family. She’s always practiced Indian head massage and has now trained in Swedish body massage and set up Intuitive Therapy at Basepoint Business Centre in West Swindon. Mia said: “The cold at this time of the year makes us tense up and causes muscles to feel really sore leaving you tired, adding to the

general stress of life. It can result in headaches and migraines, insomnia, feelings of unhappiness and being prone to illness. A relaxing Swedish body massage or Indian head massage can relieve those symptoms and leave you feeling better about yourself.” Until 28 February Mia is offering readers a 30 minute massage for just £5, with the option of a 60 minute body massage for an additional £15. However her business is for ladies only. Contact Mia via the advert on the right.

Mark Altree Hypnotherapy

Intuitive Therapy Massage promotes overall relaxation and well being and is painless!

Confidential, Professional Therapy

Stress, tension, fatigue, insomnia, headaches, migraine & upper/lower body pains can all be treated.

Help available for smoking, anxiety, panic attacks, phobias etc

Offering professional, fully insured Swedish Body Massage

For your free initial consultation contact Mark:

And traditional Indian Head massage, with or without oils Basepoint Centre, W Swindon SN5 7EX Free parking • Cash only Evenings & weekends • Ladies only Call Mia to book on 07807 014 289 Facebook: Intuitive Therapy

‘Be Happy, Be You, Be Free’

The Enterprise Centre, High Street Royal Wootton Bassett SN4 7HH

Office: 01793 238950 Mob: 07793 432484

For more information visit: www.markaltreehypnotherapy.com

Mark Altree MIAEBP IAPH

Reiki Tanya Holistic Sanctuary We are based in North Swindon and offer:

♦ Holistic Treatments:

Reiki, Reflexology, Swedish/Deep Tissue/Pregnancy/Indian Head/ Hot Stone Massages. Aromatherapy. Myofacial Cupping Therapy. Deep Tissue Trigger Point. Counselling

♦ Beauty Treatments:

Facials/Make-up/Pedicure/ Manicure/Waxing

Contact us: 07459063298 www.reikitaniaholisticsanctuary.com reikitania@hotmail.co.uk Jo, centre, with Bridlewood School pupils, parents and staff who took part in the 2013 Mad March Hare for Breakthrough Breast Cancer

Jo calls for others to make scanner jump BRIDLEWOOD Primary School headteacher Jo Garton completed the overnight Moonwalk marathon through London and raised £1,100 for breast cancer in 2014. She was given the all clear from the disease in 2013 but she’s fully committed to raising as much money as possible to help others who have been diagnosed with cancer. This year she’s set herself

a challenge of doing a parachute jump to raise funds for the GWH Brighter Future radiotherapy suite at Great Western Hospital Swindon. Oxford NHS trust will pay for the scanners, but funds are needed for other elements of the suite to help Swindon’s cancer patients. If you’re up for a jump with Jo, email: jogarton@btinternet.com.

love

Slimming World Join a warm and friendly group near you today…

Great South Run. In 2015 she is taking on her biggest challenge yet by attempting the London Marathon in April. She needs your help to make a difference and to do this she is looking for cash sponsorship or prizes for a raffle. If you have any unwanted craft items or knitted items for her to sell on her craft stall, email: majortracey@gmail.com. Donate to her project via: justgiving.com/Tracey-Major.

wer up your weight loss

MONDAYS 5.30pm & 7.30pm St Johns Church, Thames Avenue Haydon Wick, Swindon SN25 1QQ. Consultant: Sharon 07841 119082

Knitter needs prizes to boost marathon target TRACEY Major from Oakhurst, North Swindon needs your help to raise £1,800 for Get Kids Going, the charity which supports children with disabilities, some of whom go on to compete in sports. In 2014 Tracey and members of her knitting group ‘Swindon Stitch n Bitch’ raised £500 for Prospect Hospice by knitting a garden for display in the Brunel Shopping Centre, and she ran the Bristol Half Marathon and the

NEW for 20 15! Po

MONDAYS 7.30pm Bridlewood Primary School, Chartwell Road Redhouse SN25 2EX. Consultant: Lisa 07414 540866 TUESDAYS 6.30pm Abbey Meads Community School, Hugo Drive Abbey Meads, Swindon SN25 4GY. Consultant: Paula 07733 082579 TUESDAYS 7.30pm Tregoze Primary School, Sleaford Close, Swindon SN5 6JU Consultant: Jo 07815 838944 WEDNESDAYS 9.30am, 11.30am, 5.30pm & 7.30pm Moose Hall, Eastcott Hill Off Bath Road, Swindon SN1 3LS. Consultant: Steve 07791 041411 WEDNESDAYS 5.30pm & 7.30pm St Francis School, Taw Hill Swindon SN25 1UH. Consultant: Heather 07816 860840 THURSDAYS 9.30am, 11.30am, 5.30pm & 7.30pm St Johns Church Thames Ave. Haydon Wick, Swindon SN25 1QQ. Consultant: Sharon 07841 119082 FRIDAYS 9.30am Community Room, St Francis School, Taw Hill Swindon SN25 1UH. Consultant: Heather 07816 860840 SATURDAYS 9am & 11am Freshbrook Community Centre, Worsley Rd, Freshbrook Swindon SN5 8LY. Consultant: Lou 07784 098022

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swindonlink.com n February 2015

GP marks 30 years in West Swindon

Kathryn Gater MCFHP MAFHP Registered member of the British Association of Foot Health Professionals

■ Treat your feet at the Foot Health Clinic ■ Corns, callous, cracked heels, nail infections, verrucae, nail care and foot massage. ■ Professional care in a relaxed and friendly setting. ■ Gift vouchers available

Call Kathryn: 07789 542282 Basepoint Centre, West Swindon SN5 7EX

Affordable Personal Care for Your Feet

DR PETER Swinyard celebrates three decades serving the health needs of the people of West Swindon on 1 February 2015, 30 years to the day after he arrived to the day at Ashington House surgery, fresh from training. In 1995, he went solo and opened his own practice in Toothill, first in a converted house in Deerhurst Way, then in a purpose designed surgery at the village centre. “General Practice was very different in 1985,” said Dr Swinyard. “We managed with only five minute

PAINFUL FEET?

Treatments: Nail cutting (feet & hands) Nail deformities & ingrowing toenails Nail infections Verrucae treatment Corns & callus treatment Diabetic foot care

Mrs Lesley Taylor MCFHP, MAFHP, MIIR, MAR

Corns, Calluses, Verrucas, Thick Nail or Ingrowing Toenails

Contact Joan Schofield MCFHP MAFHP 07763 908167 Hours to suit your busy lives

www.healthy-happy-feet.co.uk

Call Freephone 0808 108 8545 or 01793 849914

Swindon-trained tap dancers strike gold again at World Championships

CLARE DUNCAN-HAWES

FREE SPINAL HEALTH CHECK Free 20 minute consultation to assess if Chiropractic will benefit you. Please call

01793 602454

Chiropractic is a natural and safe approach to help the problems above and many more such as knee and elbow pain, repetitive strain, heavy lifting injury, etc. And we can help young and old alike.

54 Basepoint Centre, Westlea, Swindon www.cjduncan-hawes.co.uk

Clare Duncan-Hawes BSc (Hons) MSc DC Member of the British Chiropractic Association & College of Chiropractors. Registered with GCC

FITNESS CENTRE www.lspersonaltraining.com PRIVATE GYM

GP REFERRAL

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PAY-AS-YOU-GO CLASSES NUTRITION & WEIGHT MANAGEMENT Unit 8, Star West, Westmead Drive, Swindon SN5 7SW tel 01793 680898 mob 07793 573487 email info@lspersonaltraining.com

swindonlink.com n February 2015

GPs, both nationally and locally, is extremely challenging and Phoenix Surgery has been through more than its fair share of difficulties, but we are pleased that Dr Meenakshi Raina is able to work an additional day with us and we continue to look for extra GP time.” The basis of looking after families through the generations is what gives a special magic to the practice and Dr Swinyard is now treating the children of mothers whom he cared for when they were expecting. Phoenix Surgery now has three doctors and visiting midwives and counsellors and prides itself on continuity of care as a founder member of the Family Doctor Association, of which Dr Swinyard is the National Chairman.

Clinic at: 113 High Street Royal Wootton Bassett

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appointments and were much more of a sorting house. Our job has evolved into caring for people with serious and long term conditions as the mainstay of practice rather than short self-limiting illness.” Computers did not arrive in the practice until 1988 – with an x386 computer server coping with dumb terminals. An old Wiltshire patient seeing the green screen said: “Ah. Ee be ‘aving them technography now Doctor.” Dr Swinyard continued: “There can be no doubt that demands on General Practice have risen greatly with patients consulting more frequently and with more complex problems than ever before whilst, at the same time, funding is being squeezed. “It is also true that recruitment of

TAP Attack, the official England Tap Team, proved to the tap dancing world that they are a force to be reckoned with at December’s International Dance Organisation’s 2014 World Championships in Germany. Coached and coordinated by world tap record holder Jo Scanlan from West Swindon and James Doubtfire, resident director of the world famous Tap Dogs, the 48 strong team were determined to defend their 2013 gold medal success against some 2,000 tappers from twenty countries. In the highly competitive adult formation section the team performed a show-stopping and stylised Alice in Wonderland routine, in honour of the centenary of Lewis Carroll’s classic books, to retain the gold. And the first ever English Junior Formation squad matched their older counterparts to wow the crowd with a Michael Jackson routine to win gold at the first time

of asking. The adult boys retained their world title in the Adult Small Group section and 12 year old Kai Scanlon again claimed the world title in the Junior Duet with his dance partner Marcus May. Swindon provided the largest number of dancers from any town to the England team. Jo said: “This amazing team have worked hard to prove last year’s success wasn’t a one off. “I’m incredibly proud of every one of the dancers.” The search for the 2015 Tap Attack team starts in March when several rounds of auditions will be held around the country. Jo added: “Once we’ve found the new team we’ll plan the routines to rehearse until this year’s world championships. It will be really hard work but a hat-trick of adult formation golds is our target.” Find out more about Tap Attack teams at tapattack.co.uk

Vicky sheds the pounds to make big leap for Prospect in memory of grandfather

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Charity skydive will be worth the weight VICKY Reade from Penhill is battling the bulge to raise vital funds for Prospect Hospice in memory of her late grandfather Mervyn Penny. Mervyn was a well known folk musician from Highworth who formed The White Horse Folk Club and ran it for 14 years, as well as playing the main stage at many international folk festivals. In his later years he had a strong fan base in retirement homes around the town, and was often seen busking on the streets of Swindon. Sadly, Mervyn passed away last year, aged 91, but to keep his spirit alive and passion for supporting Prospect Hospice, Vicky is preparing to do a tandem parachute jump to raise funds for the charity. For most people overcoming the fear of jumping from an aircraft at 10,000 feet is one thing, but Vicky has been facing up to the extra

challenge of shedding two stone to comply with the strict weight limit on who can make a jump. Vicky started her training in September and has lost a stone and a half by going to the gym, spinning classes and attending Shin-Splints Running Club. With another 7lbs to lose she is approaching her goal. Vicky said: “I’ve got just half a stone to go to reach my target weight for the parachute jump on Sunday 22 March. I’m keen to beat this though and lose at least another stone. “I’m really excited to complete this personal challenge and I’m determined to raise a minimum of £400 for Prospect Hospice. As well as the jump I’m organising other activities too, such as doing a car boot sale to boost funds.” Support Vicky’s challenge and donate to Prospect Hospice at: justgiving.com/vicky-reade

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Deadline looms for GLL sport grant THE deadline is ticking for young sports men and women to apply for a share of a £1million funding pot created to help young sporting stars realise their dreams. Talented athletes have until 20 February to apply for financial awards of up to £1,250. The funding is thanks to the GLL Sport Foundation (GSF), the largest independent athlete support programme in the UK, operated by

charitable social enterprise, GLL. In 2014, GSF supported 1,500 athletes, nine of whom came from Swindon including Great Britain rhythmic gymnast Laura Halford who won a silver and two bronze medals at the 2014 Commonwealth Games, competing for Team Wales and Louise Hunt, the Great Britain wheelchair tennis player who competes on the international circuit. Apply at: gllsportfoundation.org

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A major expansion for local beauty salon Elements of Serenity branches out...& has great offers for Link readers SUCCESSFUL business woman Clair Wood, owner of Elements of Serenity Holistics Health & Beauty, is branching out with the launch of several new ventures. Final touches are currently being made to a new room at the Delta Business Park, West Swindon - the home of Elements of Serenity which will be used for EoS Boutique. The new shop will specialise in the sale of pre-loved wedding and prom dresses and will also sell wedding accessories such as hats and fascinators. Clair is even working alongside a seamstress to

ensure any alterations can be made easily in-house too. Dresses will be bought from their previous owners and sold on a sale or return basis. Clair said: “The launch of EoS Boutique feels like a natural progression. I work with many brides helping to prepare for that special day from pre-skincare routine for that radiant glow to relaxation treatments to bridal make-up. I saw a gap in the market in Swindon in terms of pre-loved dresses and thought a wedding boutique would complement our existing business. We made an

Win a BMW with Elements of Serenity and Clearwater Vehicles Elements of Serenity has teamed up with Clearwater Vehicles in Cirencester (www.clearwatervehicles.co.uk) to give you the chance of winning a preloved BMW series 1. All customers that buy a full price treatment in 2015 will be entered into the draw, or you can buy a raffle ticket for £5. The draw will be pulled in December 2015 with the winner being announced at the end of the year. Terms and conditions apply.

announcement on Facebook a little while ago and we are off to a great start with many people interested in supplying us with their dresses.” EoS Boutique will be holding a pre-opening day on Saturday 21 February to allow ladies to visit the shop and look into selling their preloved items. The official boutique launch will take place a week later on Saturday 28 February between 12-5pm with celebratory bubbles and nibbles. Clair is also opening EoS Studio - a beauty makeover and photography business. Special

50% discount on all Elements of Serenity treatments Elements of Serenity is offering a 50% discount on all treatments in February including IPL hair removal, IPL skin rejuvenation/vascular/ pigmentation treatments, manicures, pedicures, waxes, massages, microdermabrasion and Dermalogica facial treatments. Quote code: Link001 when booking.

packages will be available from February onwards. If you are interested in selling your wedding/ prom/bridesmaid dress or know someone who might be, contact Clair by email elementsofserenity@ hotmail.co.uk or telephone 01793 422024.

Valentine’s Mr & Mrs special TO CELEBRATE Valentine’s Day Elements of Serenity will be offering couples a special £30 per head pamper package including a foot soak, leg massage and aromatherapy back treatment. The twist is, whilst one is relaxing the other will be asked a series of questions about their partner. The days winning couple will be crowned King and Queen and will win a half day spa experience package for two worth over £200. Terms and conditions apply. n WIN A HOT STONES MASSAGE, A BOUQUET OR A YEAR’S ONLINE DATING MEMBERSHIP IN OUR VALENTINE’S SPECIAL: SEE CENTRE PAGES

WIN: Arbonne Evolution experience A GROUP of Arbonne consultants in Swindon have come up with a great competition to help anybody who resolved this year to take more control over their weight just in time for Valentine’s. Kathy Doyle explains: “Arbonne Evolution was recently launched in the UK and the products help tackle the key things people worry about when trying to lose weight, such as feeling hungry, not eating enough, or a slow metabolism. It’s a weight management system that delivers specialised ingredients, through easy to use products, to support your health and wellness goals.

Using Arbonne Evolution products in conjunction with healthy eating and regular exercise helps support metabolism which in turn supports better health, happiness and improved selfconfidence and energy. Arbonne products are gluten, soy and dairy free and free from artificial flavours, colours and sweeteners, vegan certified and never tested on animals. Using the highest quality ingredients, they work with our bodies in a safe and beneficial way. To find out more about Arbonne weight management, call Lisa on 07776 042690 or email: theweightlossteam@outlook.com

n TO WIN the amazing new Arbonne Evolution weight management products, in no more than 10 words, complete the following sentence: “I’d love to win the Arbonne Evolution products because....” Mail your entry to theweightlossteam@outlook.com by 9 February. Entrants will be contacted with the outcome of the competition.

swindonlink.com n February 2015

Vote for Swindon’s Mr Railway to put town on tourist map KEVIN Shurmer, whose family’s association with the railways goes back to the days of Brunel, has been nominated as Swindon’s ambassador in the third VisitEngland’s Tourism Superstar awards. And he’s after your vote in a Daily Mirror poll from 31 January. Kevin, who has lived in Toothill since 1978, comes from a long line of railwaymen going back to 1858. He said: “My great, great, granddad like many people at that time worked on the land and he came into Brunel’s rapidly expanding GWR railway works as a watchman. “His son became a boiler man, his son also worked in the boiler shop, and the fourth in line – my father – was a French polisher. “My brother served an apprenticeship as an electrician and I was a coach painter for a time. It was the most stress free job I’ve ever had, I loved it.” Kevin went on to spend 20 years at a medical technology company, but his railway heritage was rekindled when he met an engineer who was working on restoring

artefacts to be displayed in the new STEAM museum before it opened in 2000. He now works at STEAM for 25 hours a week and spends extra time keeping people in touch with Swindon’s past. He said: “I work front of house so I get to meet all the visitors as they come in, but my main love is telling stories. I’ve given talks where the youngest audience member was two and the oldest over 100, from groups of five to 300 people. “I enjoy it because I can talk about the subject from first-hand experiences. To me the history of the railway works in Swindon is very important, it is what made Swindon. It would be fantastic to win the award - not just for me, but for all the people who spent time in the Works who are no longer here - all I am doing is keeping a part of their history alive.” The Mirror will host an online public vote at mirroronline.co.uk starting on 31 January. Nominees will be supported by a short video. The winner will be announced on 14 March, the first day of English Tourism Week.

Kevin Shurmer is nominated in the Tourism Superstar awards

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Church set to go ahead with vital conservation after securing £170k towards £360k target

St Mary’s preparing second lottery bid for essential work

Paul Gardner explaining details found in the St Mary’s Church tryptch to the Archbishop of Canterbury when he visited Swindon in mid-September 2014

The Vine Church “Enjoy one of our Sunday Services, you will find them refreshing & relevant to everyday life!” Meets @ Liden Primary School (SN3 6EX) Sunday 10.30am 01793 862224 www.vinechurch.co.uk

PUTTING aside November’s disappointment of not being awarded a Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) grant for important work at St Mary’s Church in Lydiard Park, church appeal organisers are undertaking work that cannot be put off any longer whilst refining a new HLF grant submission. Appeal chairman Paul Gardner said: “We are pleased to announce that following continued fundraising and a grant from Wiltshire Historic Churches Trust, we are now able to undertake urgent conservation of the 18th Century reredos behind the church alter and the east Chancel wall. “This work to address long standing damage and water penetration will start in the Spring. It will also help to inform how conservation of the historic interior and the extensive medieval wall

paintings in the church which form part of the much larger conservation project will be undertaken.” He added that a new, refocused bid to support this wider project will be re-submitted to the Heritage Lottery Fund in May, with a decision expected in September this year. Paul commented: “Carrying out the work to the reredos in advance of the HLF decision means that the public will be able to see that their donations to our appeal fund are being used to continue to restore and conserve the beautiful interior of the church.” The fundraising continues a pace. The appeals committee have now secured over £170,000, towards a target of £360,000. The total conservation scheme is in excess £1.2million which the committee hope the HLF will support.

400th anniversary of unique artwork 20 JULY will mark the 400th anniversary of the completion and unveiling in 1615 of St Mary’s unique polyptych. The giant multi-panel artwork depicts the family tree of the well connected St John’s family who owned Lydiard House and its estate. The church is preparing to celebrate this historic anniversary every Sunday afternoon in June, culminating with a opening on the weekend of the 25 and 26 July. In advance of this, the Red Queen panel will be on display and talks given about the church’s connections with Tudor and Stuart times. Rarely on display, the Red Queen panel illustrates the story of

Margaret Beaufort, mother of Henry VII, the first Tudor king. Arguably the most powerful woman in the 15th Century, she shares ancestry with the St John family of Lydiard Park, through her mother Margaret Beauchamp played by Amanda Hale in the 2013 BBC drama ‘The Red Queen’. The BBC’s adaptation of Hilary Mantel’s book Wolf Hall, about Thomas Cromwell’s fixer, is sure to attract tourists interested in life and worship during the Tudor period. The artwork will be on display with talks by Paul Gardner and other members of the congregation of St Mary’s on Sunday afternoons: 22 March, 25 April and 24 May.

n SWINDON Heritage Magazine, the journal of everything historical in the town, marked its sixth quarterly edition in February with the relaunch of a new website swindonheritage.com. Pictured are Andy Binks of the Swindon Society, Swindon Heritage writer Frances Bevan and editor Graham Carter.

swindonlink.com n February 2015

Museum status for stately home

THE Swindon Council-owned former home of the St John family, who once had Queen Elizabeth I as a house guest, has been awarded Accredited Status by the ACE, which is considered a benchmark for museums in the UK. There are currently just under 1,800 museums participating in the accreditation scheme, which underlines a commitment to managing collections effectively for the enjoyment and benefit of users. Lydiard House first Councillor urges people gained accredited status in 2010, but the new award of Swindon to pay a relates to an updated level visit to Lydiard House which has been revised to a higher set of standards. following ACE award To achieve this, the curators and managers had Coun Garry Perkins said: “This is a to show that the collections, visitor real feather in the cap for Lydiard provision and user satisfaction, as House and is confirmation of the well as effective forward planning, great work of staff in maintaining to meet the new criteria set by the one of Swindon’s most well-loved ACE. assets. The status aims to confirm to the “If you haven’t yet visited Lydiard public, potential donors and funding House I would encourage you to do bodies that the museum is run so because it is packed full of local professionally and the collections history and is a fascinating insight that are held in trust for the into what life was like for the St community are being appropriately John family, who lived in the striking cared for. Grade I listed Palladian house for Council cabinet member for hundreds of years.” economy, regeneration and culture, lydiardpark.org.uk

Dressability is looking for new team members to help deliver its service to adults and children with disabilities in the Swindon area. We alter and adapt clothing for disabled adults & children as well as people who are over 65 and have positions for an: Experienced Seamstress to work part-time for approximately 10 per week. We are looking for an energetic, positive and dynamic individual who can adjust to sensitive situations and work through the challenges with a can-do attitude Part-time administrator, for approximately 6 hours a week, who can offer a wide range of IT skills, including social media, web management, spreadsheets and databases. For details please email: sharontombs@dressability.org.uk for full job description or call Sharon 01793 512878 for an informal discussion.

swindonlink.com n February 2015

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Westonbirt Arboretum NESTLED between the beautiful and historic towns of Tetbury and Cirencester, Westonbirt Arboretum offers a fantastic location for enjoying some fresh air and taking in the breathtaking landscape. Westonbirt boasts an internationally renowned tree collection and heritage landscape. Once your walk is complete why not pop into Jack Hare’s Bar at the Hare & Hounds Hotel, perfect for a spot of lunch and a hot toddy by their open fire. Only a short drive from Westonbirt Arboretum it is well worth the journey. www.forestry.gov.uk/ westonbirt

Valentine’s Day looms and to help set the romantic tone we have teamed up with eHarmony.co.uk to compile a selection of th best date venues around Swindon (and slightly beyond). And if you yet to find that special someone, eHarmony is offering Link reader one-year free membership to their relationship website. We also ha bouquet and a massage to give away - see all the offers below..

THE emerald jewel in Swindon’s crown, Coate Water’s sprawling 70 acres of natural beauty takes some beating. Take a stroll around the lake with ice creams in hand, or enjoy a semi-competitive game of mini golf before retiring to The Sun Inn on the Marlborough Road, next to the entrance to the park, for a romantic meal. www.swindon.gov.uk/lc/lc-parks www.suninn-swindon.co.uk

Lacock Abbey EXPLORE this fascinating building, from the ground floor medieval cloisters to the first floor family rooms. You can also enjoy a walk through the abbey grounds and see early snowdrops. Throughout January, February and March carpets of spring flowers appear in the grounds, from snowdrops to crocus and daffodils. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lacock/

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swindonlink.com n February 2015

Uffington White Horse

Coate Water Country Park

IF YOU don’t have a loved one to share Valentine’s Day with and want to rectify the situation before 14 February 2016, we’re here to help. Swindon Link has teamed up with our friends at eHarmony to offer a FREE one-year membership with the internet dating giants. eHarmony launched in the UK in July 2008 as an alternative to online dating for singles looking for a long-term relationship. eHarmony is different. They scientifically match you on 29 dimensions of compatibility – you know, the stuff that counts like your values, characteristics, and even your sense of humour, which means better matches for you! To be in with a chance of winning

NAMED one of the most romantic date destinations in the south by eHarmony’s Great Date Guide last year, Uffington’s White Horse is set in rolling Oxfordshire hills, offering views for miles. The country charm of The Fox and - the only pub in the village - is the place to round off a date after trekk down White Horse Hill. www.uffington

Brunel’s Clifton Suspension Bridge TAKE a walk and admire Bristol’s most famous and striking landmark. Afterwards relax at the Avon Gorge Hotel and enjoy afternoon tea looking out over some of the most spectacular views of the city. www.theavongorge.com

membership the free membership simply like us on Facebook (Swindon-Link) OR follow us on Twitter (@swindonlink) and message us the words LOVE eHARMONY on either format. Competition closes at midday on Wednesday 11 February. The winner will be selected at random and will be informed discretely and without publicity. Usual Swindon Publications rules apply. For further details on the relationship website visit www.eharmony.co.uk Good luck!

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The Roman Baths STEP back in time and discover the history behind Bath’s spa culture by visiting the 2,000 year old Roman Baths, filled with ancient mystical artefacts and thermal water that still steams today. After imagining what Bath was like in Roman times, get a taste of the best in modern day facilities by visiting Thermae Bath Spa. Bathe in the warm, natural mineral-rich waters and choose from a range of spa treatments designed to ease the body and soothe the mind. www.romanbaths.co.uk www.thermaebathspa.com

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The Three Gables THE Three Gables restaurant in Bradford On Avon is a real treat, from the stunning Grade II listed building it’s housed in, to its romantic laid back ambiance. Be prepared for a truly five star experience from fantastic service, excellent food and a highly extensive wine list. Your date will be extremely impressed. www.thethreegables.com

Longleat LONGLEAT Safari & Adventure Park is packed with adventures and attractions. Go on safari, visit Longleat House and see Lord Bath’s murals. If you really want to go for it you can organise a VIP Tour and spend some personal time with the animals under the guidance of an expert ranger. www.longleat.co.uk

WIN: Beautiful flowers or a luxurious massage TO CELEBRATE Valentine’s Day Swindon Link has teamed up with All About Flowers and Elements of Serenity to bring you some fantastic prizes. All About Flowers Swindon is offering our lucky winner a choice of: n A hand-tied bouquet of six sumptuous red roses encased in greenery and berries. n An opulent arrangement of scarlet red gerberas, deep red roses, combined with berries and unusual foliage. n OR Florist’s Choice: A special surprise from All About Flowers.

And Elements of Serenity will pamper your loved one (or yourself) with a full body hot stones massage.

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Friday 13th February 2015

Valentine’s

Pink Ball

In association with Brighter Futures Great Western Hospital Radiotherapy Centre Appeal.

with 3 course dinner & disco until 1am £32.95 per person

Bookings now being taken:

01793 721701 events@blunsdonhouse.co.uk

To be in with a chance of winning the prizes simply like us on Facebook (Swindon-Link) OR follow us on Twitter (@swindonlink) and message us the words LOVE FLOWERS or LOVE MASSAGE on either format. Competition closes at midday on Wednesday 11 February. Winners will be selected at random. Usual Swindon Publications rules apply.

Sunday 15th February 2015 11am – 3pm, Free Entry

For more about All About Flowers visit: www.swindonflorist.co.uk OR call: 01793 976529. To see Elements of Serenity’s full treatment list visit: www. elementsofserenity.co.uk OR call 01793 422024.

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Wedding Fayre Best Western Plus Blunsdon House Hotel, Blunsdon, Swindon, SN26 7AS

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swindonlink.com n February 2015

Opportunities for community video content producers OVER 40 years after Swindon Viewpoint started local TV production on the town’s cable network, the channel is starting to expand its current online operations and is looking for volunteers to create content about a wide range of subjects. In the last year Viewpoint Community Media which aims to transform community communications in the town, has been established. As a charity it has responsibility to manage the production and broadcast

operations of Swindon Viewpoint, support existing town-wide community communications activity such as social media, blogging, radio, and create new initiatives. VCM chairperson Hannah Parry said: “2015 will be an exciting one for the charity. “Swindon Viewpoint has a long history, with a huge archive of material from the time it was the community cable TV station, and a great deal of contemporary material made for our internet output. “VCM is now looking for volunteer

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community content producers to take us into this new phase and bring forward fresh programmes. They can choose to cover a varied range of topics including music, sport, social action, arts and culture, politics or lifestyle - to help make videos seen by our large and growing local audience, upwards of 90,000 viewers. “This is a great opportunity to acquire or take existing media skills to a higher level and gain real world experience in media production. It’s a chance to acquire or broaden transferable skills, and of course take part in an enjoyable activity. Training will be available.” VCM are also looking for a volunteer co-ordinator and a trustee fundraiser to help support this work and develop new projects. It would welcome interest from volunteers able to provide support with wider roles such as media training, fundraising, marketing, social media and business development.

These new opportunities are listed on the recently relaunched Do It website – the UK’s largest volunteering database. The site has a completely new look as well as improved functionality to help volunteers search for opportunities. It also includes the option for individuals to report on their volunteering experience, and gives organisations a way to publicly thank them for their time. Find out more at: do-it.org/organisations/ viewpoint-community-media or email Hannah at: contact@ viewpointcommunitymedia.org.uk. swindonviewpoint.com

Make a difference: Four Swindon organisations that need your help VOLUNTEERS provide vital support them on a regular basis to monitor to organisations in Swindon. Here their behaviour and support their are this month’s top four appeals reintegration into the community. for people to help out provided by n Cruse Bereavement is looking for Volunteer Centre Swindon. volunteers to support the role n Blind Veterans UK of referral secretary by Toothill C ommunit being the first point of are setting up a lunch y Centre is available club in the town for contact for bereaved hire on T uesd and are looking for clients. The role Thursday ays and s evening helpers who can involves answering . For detail s, contac socialise and offer the telephone and t Annette K ennedy o support to members. taking details from n 01793 61 4492. The veterans can bereaved people who sometimes have difficulty require counselling or reading the menu, cutting up other support, as well as food and fetching their own drinks. responding to emails from clients, Helpers are able to sit down and health organisations and other enjoy a nice lunch too. agencies and signposting as n The Royal British Legion has required. opened a new pop-in centre in To find out how you can get Regent Street, Swindon and needs involved in these or any of the many information volunteers to offer other volunteering opportunities advice and support to beneficiaries. contact Volunteer Centre Swindon If you have basic IT skills and can on 01793 420557 or email: info@ spare a few hours per week, they’d swindonvolunteers.org.uk. like to hear from you. The centre is located at 1 John n Circles South West, which helps Street, Swindon and welcomes Police and Probation services, is people to drop in Monday to Friday, offering long term volunteering 11am to 3pm. roles to work with offenders Find them also at: do-it.org convicted of sexual offences. Circles of four or five volunteers work with an offender, meeting

New ADHD parent group set to launch PARENTS of children who have Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder will be able to get support and advice at a new group that launches in Swindon on 5 February. ADHD affects around 5 per cent of children and can lead to poor concentration, problems in school, behavioural difficulties and even aggression and meltdowns. The 6 week ADHD Kids Parent Coaching Programme provides carers with the opportunity to meet other parents in a similar situation. They will also work with a professional coach to develop skills to help them support their children to reach their full potential. The course has been devised by Alison Thompson, founder of ADHD Kids, an author, speaker, coach and parent of a young man with the condition. She said: “My son’s behaviour was quite aggressive at times and I felt I couldn’t talk

to other parents as I was too embarrassed to tell them what was going on. “Through my coaching I hope to give parents the chance to get together in a safe, nonjudgemental place to exchange ideas and support each other.” The evening course will run every fortnight from Thursday 5 February at Christ Church Community Centre in Old Town. Over the six sessions, parents will find out more about managing stress, self-care, overcoming obstacles, saying no, building confidence and dealing with difficult people. Alison added: “Parenting a child with ADHD is a huge challenge and parents often find their confidence is knocked, both by the daily stress and through criticism from people who don’t understand. I hope this programme will help parents to

build their confidence and find ways to overcome some of the difficulties they face.” Full details are available at adhdkids.org.uk or call Alison on 01367 888229.

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Tel: 01793 727158

janet@janetspuppyskool.co.uk

Wednesday 4 March. On the menu will be fish & chips, pie & mash, liver & onions, cottage pie and bangers & mash. The price is £7.95 a dish, £5 of which goes to the charity.

The evening starts at 7pm with last orders at 9.30pm. There will also be a raffle. To book call 01793 827530 or email: thecrownstratton@gmail. com

FOSSE DOGOTEL AND CATTERY Going on holiday? Worried about your pets? They can have a fun time at Fosse Dogotel Vet on call 24 hours

Cricklade Rd, Cirencester GL7 5QB Tel: 01285 860200 info@fossedogotelandcattery.co.uk www.fossedogotelandcattery.co.uk

WHEN Alex Secker began working on films in his teens he had few contacts with anybody in the business. He now runs 22six Productions and is planning a free event to bring together people interested in film-making. The meeting will be informal so that people can make contacts and talk about projects they’re involved with, or would like to team up with others to pursue ideas. It takes place at on Monday 9 February at The Vic, Old Town. To find out more contact Alex on 0788 0499334, email info22six@gmail.com or visit 22sixproductions.co.uk.

Counselling course

Swindon Guide Dogs serving up some Great British Classics FOLLOWING a sell out response to the last fundraiser The Crown Inn, Stratton is holding another Great British Classics Menu charity night in aid of Swindon Guide Dogs 4Joy Appeal on

Meet with film-maker

IN APRIL Willows Counselling in Old Town is offering a 10 week Introduction to Pastoral Counselling course for anyone considering becoming a counsellor. It is also suitable for people already involved in pastoral care, for example within an educational or church setting. For details contact Avril Fray on 01793 426650 or training@willowscounselling. org.uk n ON 27 February Encore present an evening of upbeat music in aid of Willows to provide counselling for clients in disadvantaged areas, including those who have suffered abuse as children or adults. Ticket details at willowscounselling.org.uk

Thameswood Veterinary Clinics

Making Life Better

Free Arthritis Checks February & March Does your pet seem stiff after resting, can’t jump like they used to or keep licking their joints? Then they can benefit at our ARK Clinic. • Tailored advise for you and your pets at home • In house Physiotherapist • Therapeutic Laser • Acupuncture / Hydrotherapy Contact the clinic to book your FREE appointment.

62-64 Purton Road Swindon SN2 2LZ (end of Akers Way) Tel: 01793 526780

www.thameswoodvets.co.uk swindonlink.com n February 2015

From the office into the garden GREEN fingered Swindon resident Paul Crocker has swapped the corporate life for the great outdoors with the launch of his new enterprise - Ed’s Garden Maintenance. Paul decided to bring the successful franchise to the town following redundancy last year after 30 years at Zurich. Outdoor work and Paul go back a long way. Photos can be found of him aged 2 pushing a lawnmower and helping in the garden. Ed’s Garden Maintenance launched in 2003 and there are now 34 franchises in the UK. Paul’s is the first in the South West. He is currently looking for new clients in and around Swindon from homeowners, to care homes, nursing homes, estate agents and management agents. He offers lawn mowing, turfing, hedge cutting, pruning, garden clearance and pressure washing. To find out more see the ad top left.

Lydiard volunteer who raided the walled garden now looks after it

Jane Lane with newly planted apple trees in the Lydiard walled garden LOOKING after the walled garden at Lydiard Park is an all year round activity and the staff at the Swindon Council run park rely on a team of volunteers. However people come and go in response to other demands so there’s always a need to recruit more to help out to ensure the garden looks its best at all times. Jane Lane, 70, from Freshbrook, has been helping out off and on for the last 15 years and has happy memories of visiting the park in her teens when West Swindon was just farm land and families had been rehoused in the old prisoner of war hospital huts where the sports fields are now. Jane said: “I grew up in a house on Wootton Bassett Road and can’t remember how long I’ve been visiting Lydiard Park, but my parents must have brought me from a young age. As soon as I was old enough I would ride out to Lydiard

Park on my bike with my friends; the roads and pedestrian routes in the mid-50s were very quiet and children were allowed to roam far and wide. “The park was also quiet for a lot of the time; the walled garden was usually locked up but we could climb over the wall for some apple noggin. “The Beauty of Bath variety had a lovely taste. But the gamekeeper got annoyed if he saw us and we were chased away quite a few times. “Now I absolutely love coming to Lydiard to help out; it’s fascinating how it’s changed over all these years and how heavily used it has become.” There’s always something to do in the garden and grounds. To find out more about joining the Lydiard Park volunteer team contact Caroline Palmer on 01793 465271 or email: cpalmer2@swindon.gov.uk

Gardening in miniature at bonsai show

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swindonlink.com n February 2015

IT’S the time of the year when little is growing outdoors,but it’s a perfect opportunity to see work by members of Swindon Bonsai Club at their annual ‘Winter Image’ show on Sunday 22 February, 10.30am to 4pm. It’s the first big show in the British bonsai calendar and attracts followers from far and wide. Paul Bowerbank, chairman of Swindon & District Bonsai Society, said: “Our show puts Swindon on the map in bonsai circles as Winter Image is how trees are presented at big displays in Japan.

“Without leaves it shows the very fine growth that goes into these small, and some not so small trees. This means they have to be of a very high quality and some of the trees on display are regular visitors to the Chelsea Flower show.” There will be expert advice from club members on how trees are trained into such ornate shapes and bonsai traders will be on hand with materials to start beginners off. The event takes place at Stratton St Margaret Community Centre, Grange Drive, Stratton, SN3 4JY swindon-bonsai.co.uk

HERITAGE TREE CARE

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Professional care `````` for your garden Grass cutting - regular maintenance Landscaping - Patios & Paving - repairs & cleaning Decking and Fencing Hedge cutting & pruning No Job Too Small. All works insured

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TEL: 01793 536784 SANSUM SAND & GRAVEL SUPPLY TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC AND TRADE CUSTOMERS BRICKS, CONCRETE BLOCKS, CELCON BLOCKS, BLOCK PAVING, PATIO SLABS, SAND, GRAVEL, TOP SOIL, BARK, CANTABURY SPAR, LANDSCAPE FABRIC, DRAINAGE CHANNELS, BUILDING CHEMICALS, ROCK SALT AND CEMENT

www.sansums.co.uk swindonlink.com n February 2015

In his latest car review, GEOFF MAXTED of DriveWrite takes Citroen’s supermini for a spin

Funky French fancy MOBILE CAR SERVICING & REPAIRS ★ Engine diagnostics ★ Electrical work ★ MoTs arranged (no re-test fee)

For a reliable local service with over 30 years experience (No VAT to pay)

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• Free estimate at your home or work • We now complete all repairs in our workshop| • We will collect and return your car, free of charge, the same day 30

swindonlink.com n February 2015

WE ARE featuring the Citroen DS3 DSport Plus and our test car arrived with a really fetching paint job of pearl white (£730) and a black roof. The DS3 is eminently suitable for customisation. Our model costs around £20k but this will vary depending upon specification and your dip into the options list. Thanks to some recent small but important revisions - higher pressure fuel rail, bigger injectors and new engine mapping - the car performs even better with a 0-62 time of just 7.3 seconds. Although not featured on this car, Stop/Start is available but even without that we saw fuel consumption holding around 40mpg, give or take - despite the car being driven with some vim and vigour. On a long run this will improve which, for a sporting motor, is not bad at all. Should you like the car but don’t need the performance then less powerful engines are available. The test car did not have a touch screen or navigation. Instead the small display delivered basic trip information plus date and temperature etc - which is fine - except that the pictograms and text used seem to have been made using software from a 1980’s Atari game. This car is so good in other ways that it deserves better and so do you. There are good reasons to consider this nimble hatchback so make sure you specify Citroen’s eMyWay pack which brings the package up to date with infotainment and navigation.

The turbocharged petrol engine is strong and flexible, and it sounds great, too. What impresses is the manner in which power is delivered. Citroen’s THP engine has an excellent spread of power and torque; it really doesn’t feel like a turbo. Third gear is especially long which means that overtakes are dealt with in a safe and speedy fashion. In this version the handling and body control is just what you want from, effectively, a hot-ish hatch. The DSport trim offers plenty of kit, including cruise, climate control, Bluetooth and 17-inch alloys but no heated seats, in this case. To get this engine buyers must specify DSport and the opportunities to mix and match or add options are endless. We especially liked the piano black dashboard and the simple and logical layout of the dashboard controls. Materials are of good quality although inevitably there is evidence of cost savings with the rather lumpy rubber covers on the 12 volt and AUX sockets. The seats are comfortable and very supportive. The rear seats are as you would expect and both split and fold in front of a fairly generous 285L litre boot, roomy enough for a week’s luggage and harbouring a real space-saver spare wheel. A great supermini. Geoff Maxted www.drivewrite.co.uk

Night at the opera: P35

Complete listings: P34

Unicorn Therapy A therapy service for adults and children Experienced and highly qualified psychotherapists offer individual, art and equine psychotherapy. Swindon Festival of Literature bookings, left to right: Nell McAndrew, Sandi Toksvig, Shami Chakrabati and Dr Suzannah Lipscomb

Contact 01793 762939 or 07800 602655 www.unicornchildtherapyservices.co.uk

Festival of reading, writing, thinking...and running PLANS are well underway for the twenty-second Swindon Festival of Literature, writes festival director Matt Holland. Among authors already booked to appear from 4 to 16 May are an international novelist, a famous broadcaster, a champion of civil liberties, an academic intellectual, and even a celebrity model. Sometime television hostess and page three girl, a latter-day Forces sweetheart, but emerging more recently as a phenomenal athlete and runner, Nell McAndrew has now written a book on how to get fit and stay healthy. On the first day of the festival, sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be joining scores of Swindon parkrunners for a five kilometre run round Lydiard Park, followed by a talk about her book in the Lydiard Conference Centre. Appearing at the Wyvern on the second day of the festival will be comic broadcaster and writer Sandi Toksvig to talk and answer questions about her book Peas & Queues. On a completely different

note, director of Liberty, Shami Chakrabati, will be talking about civil liberties in these challenging times. And acting as judge supremo at the festivalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s unique Swindon Think Slam, where participants have three minutes to present an interesting and thought-provoking idea, and also giving a talk on public intellectualism, will be historian and author Dr Suzannah Lipscomb. Coming to town to talk about her latest novel, Empress Dowager Cixi, which overturns conventional understanding of the Chinese ruler, is acclaimed author of Wild Swans Jung Chang. These five splendid women authors are going to be big attractions at the festival, which will feature 50 events, many yet to be announced. If any Link readers would like to suggest an author or event, this is the last chance to send your request or idea to festival organisers. Contact Matt Holland at swindonlitfest@lowershawfarm. swindonlink.com n February 2015

West Swindon and Lydiard Tregoze Church Partnership Please join us in worship on Sunday mornings Westlea Church, Westlea School: 10am St Mary’s Lydiard Tregoze - the church in the park: 10am Holy Trinity, Shaw: 10.30am Toothill Church: 10.30am For details of these and our other services call the Partnership Office on 01793 874221 Email: wspartnershipoffice@gmail.com Website: WSwinlyd.org.uk

Anglican • Baptist • Methodist • United Reformed Church

St. John’s Haydon Wick On Thames Avenue next door to Morrisons Contact: Revd Raymond Adams Tel: 634258

Sunday 9am Services 11am

Traditional communion service Eventful, contemporary worship with children’s groups meeting www.stjohnshaydonwick.org.uk

Open to all, serving tea, coffee, cakes & light lunches Fridays and Saturdays: 10am - 2pm

Celebrating International Women’s Day in 2014

Swindon will champion female equality in March INTERNATIONAL Women’s Day There will also be creative (IWD) Swindon takes place on workshops such as henna hand Saturday 7 March, 11am to 4pm. painting, bunting making skills, Focussed locally on ‘Equality for poetry and song - including Asian Women is Equality for All,’ IWD song and dance, and creative Swindon 2015 promotes equality journalism. for women, celebrates The volunteers involved Friday 6 M women’s achievements want to establish arch, 11am Inte rdenomin and aims to raise IWD Swindon as Women’s ational World Da awareness about y of Prayer. a regular fixture in St Mary’s , Lydiard women’s groups Swindon’s event Park. All welcome . For and charities in the Bullimore details: Suzanne calendar and to , 01793 8 70458 town. capture growing suzanneb ullimore6 or 2 Over 20 groups will public awareness of the @gmail.c om hold stands at Central role of women in society. Library, and the day will Organisers would be complemented by activities, welcome sponsorship from local workshops and performances. Talks businesses and are looking for will address subjects such as ‘What further participants, volunteers and women want: Equal pay not low partners to make this a vibrant and pay’ and ‘Women Mean Businesscolourful event. For details, email: How can you work better?’ iwdswindon@gmail.com

Young relationships - it’s not all sweetness and light ‘Reaching out to welcome all’ Services each Sunday at 8am & 10.30am Full provision for children and young people at every 10.30am service Parking opposite the Church at Lydiard Millicent Parish Hall.

For details call Revd Tudor Roberts on 01793 772417 www.allsaints-online.org.uk

swindonlink.com n February 2015

WITH Valentine’s Day coming up on 14 February, and all the acompanying hype, you may be thinking that romance is all about walks in the park, kissing in the back row of the cinema or a box of chocolates, writes Jo Heaven of Swindon Women’s Aid. However, 25 per cent of girls and 18 per cent of boys aged between 16 and 25 years old, are in fact the victims of relationship violence. Derogatory remarks and moody silences are replaced with threats, assault and rape with many young people feeling this is a ‘normal relationship’ as it’s what they have witnessed with their own parents, their peer groups or from the media. Swindon Women’s Aid has recognised this under reported problem and, through a 2013

grant from the Police & Crime Commissioner, has been able to employ a dedicated Young Persons Independent Domestic Violence Advisor who works with the highest risk cases. Since 2013 over 80 young people have been directly supported by Swindon Women’s Aid. This number is increasing with more referrals from schools, colleges, social services and the police. From living in fear of their boyfriend or girlfriend, these young people learn what a healthy relationship is and are able to raise their expectations of what they will tolerate in their own relationships. If you are affected by domestic violence contact Swindon Women’s Aid on 01793 610610 or visit swindonwomensaid.org

swindonlink.com n February 2015

WHAT’S ON MUSIC Thursday 5th, 7.30pm Essential Hollies. A celebration of The Hollies. £17.50. Wyvern Saturday 7th, 7.30pm The Neil Diamond Story. Singer and guitarist Bob Dury celebrates the life and work of this musical legend. £14. Arts Centre Monday 9th, 7.30pm Rumours of Fleetwood Mac. Enjoy all the classic hits from one of the most outstanding and enduring catalogues in the history of recorded music. £23.50. Wyvern Friday 13th, 7pm Gig in aid of Prospect Hospice with Union Gap. £12; call 07796 137770 for tickets, no tickets on the door. County Ground Saturday 14th, 7.30pm Barbara Dickson. The multi-million selling recording artist performs her classic hits as well as other material in her own inimitable style. £30. Wyvern Friday 20th, 7.30pm The Boss UK. All Bruce Springsteen’s best-loved hits in a show with all the passion and realism of the true Boss. £16. Arts Centre

Wednesday 25th to Saturday 28th, MUSICAL 7.30pm Thursday 12th, 7.30pm Ten In A Bar. Luxuriate in an array Beyond the Barricade. A spectacuof music from Swindon’s 12-voice lar night of West End favourites. harmony group. £12. Arts Centre £20.50. Wyvern Saturday 28th, 7.30pm Jinski. Song-writer and vocalist CHILDREN & FAMILY Stephen Wegrzynski and musician Friday 6th, 6pm to 9pm Dave Kennedy draw upon accoustic Family Roller Disco. In adv £5.50 (+ roots and country music whilst BF); skates & safety equipment hire remaining resolutely modern in £2. MECA their songs that tell stories of love, joy, loneliness and longing. £10. The Tuesday 10th, 4pm & 6.30pm Place, Wyvern Swindon School Dance Festival. £8; under 16s £4. Wyvern

DRAMA Friday 6th, 7.30pm Warnings To The Curious: The Ghost Stories of M.R.James. An original one-man show based on some of the Edwardian era’s greatest ghost stories. £11. Arts Centre

ART Tuesday 17th, 7.30pm Cricklade Art Group: Workshop – bring along a photo of a landscape and paint it in the style of, rather than copy, JMW Turner, Van Gogh or Monet. Cricklade Town Hall Annex. crickladeart.co.uk

Roves Farm

A great family day out, come rain or shine

OPEN DAILY

until 23rd December, 10am- 5pm

Animals, Activities & Play for the whole day!

Termtime Toddler Activities

School Holiday Themes & Events

Sevenhampton, Nr. Swindon

swindonlink.com n February 2015

Monday 16th, 2pm Robin Winter’s Adventure. An uplifting tale of bravery and friendship told with puppetry, poetry, music and magical design for ages 4 and older. £10; children £8. Arts Centre Wednesday 18th, 11am Despicable Me (Cert: U). Film with buffet; free tea and coffee for carers. £10 incl refreshments. Wyvern Friday 20th, 11am The Great Jaydini. Enter the funny and magical world of a talented and professional magician whose unique style puts together a blend of comedy and magic suitable for ages 4 and older. £10, incl an ice cream. Wyvern

FILM Wednesday 4th, 7.45pm The Golden Dream (12A). A tough, tender, and beautifully crafted film - we follow the fortunes of Juan, Sara and Chauk, three central American youngsters who set out north en route to the US in pursuit of a better life…SFS. Arts Centre Wednesday 18th, 7.45pm The Selfish Giant (15.) With astonishing performances by the two young lead actors, this starkly emotional and powerful drama presents some of the best of modern British film-making. SFS. Arts Centre

01793 763939

www.rovesfarm.co.uk

Saturday 14th to Sunday 22nd Gingerbread Race. Bringing the classic story to life with a twist.... Roves Farm. See the advert below Sunday 15th, 11am & 2.30pm Basil Brush. Go on a journey with Britain’s most loveable fox and his chum Mr Stephen (aka Chris Pizzey). £14; family of 4 £46. Wyvern

Swindon Film Society (SFS) films are for members only. It is possible to join at any film showing

COMEDY Thursday 5th, 8pm Joke Thieves. The cult hit show where top comedians perform their own jokes, then each others. See what happens. £12. Arts Centre Saturday 7th, 7.30pm ‘Allo ‘Allo le Dinner Show. A hilarious tribute to the popular sitcom performed as you enjoy a threecourse meal. £45, incl meal. Wyvern Restaurant Friday 13th, 7.30pm Andrew Lawrence. None of his success has brought Andrew any joy. Come and laugh in his stupid face. £15. Arts Centre Thursday 19th, 8pm Lloyd Langford. A show packed with gags, anecdotes, riffs and occasional exasperated pleas to the sky about feeling bamboozled by the modern world. £13. Arts Centre Saturday 21st, 7.30pm Austentatious: An Improvised Novel. Jane Austen famously wrote six novels - or did she? This comedy play spun in the inimitable style of Austen is based entirely on audience suggestions. £14. Arts Centre

DANCE Tuesday 3rd, 7.30pm Broken by Motionhouse. A powerful production which submerges highly athletic dance within intricate digital imagery and original music in an adrenaline fuelled spectacle. £17.50. Wyvern Saturday 7th, 2.30pm & 7.30pm & Sunday 8th, 4pm Royal Wootton Bassett School of Dance present One Moment In Time, an extravaganza of song and dance starring 230 pupils. £12. Wyvern

VENUES Arts Centre Devizes Road SN1 4BJ. Tel: 01793 524481 Central Library Regent Circus SN1 1QG. Tel: 01793 463782 Lydiard House Lydiard Park SN5 3PA. Tel: 01793 466664 MECA Regent Circus SN1 1PR Tel: 01793 251111 Roves Farm Sevenhampton Nr Highworth SN6 7QG. Tel: 01793 763939 STEAM Kemble Drive SN2 2EY. Tel: 01793 466637 Swindon Information Centre Central Library SN1 1QG. Tel: 01793 530328 Wyvern Theatre Theatre Square SN1 1QN. Tel: 01793 524481 Confirm date, time & price with venue

Verdi’s masterpiece on Wyvern stage OPERATIC performances are often restricted to theatres in London or Bristol, or perhaps a live broadcast to a cinema, but on Tuesday 3 March the Russian State Ballet and Opera House performs Verdi’s best-loved opera Rigoletto at the Wyvern. It’s a tragic tale of misunderstanding, revenge and sacrifice, sung in Italian with English surtitles performed to the accompaniment of a large live orchestra. The work is based on a play by Victor Hugo, ‘Le Roi s‘amuse’, written by Giuseppe Verdi and his librettist Francesco Maria Piave, to fulfil a contract for a new opera to be produced at the Teatro La Fenice in Venice during the 1850-1851 season. The story revolves around the hunchbacked court jester, Rigoletto, his beautiful much-loved daughter Gilda (whom he had kept secret from the Court) and the womanising Duke of Mantua he serves. The drama of tension and menace in a plot involving abduction, seduction and a hired assassin is matched by a succession of stunning and recognisable tunes, including the famous ‘La donna è mobile.’ Alexej Ignatow, producer of The

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Russian State Ballet & Opera House said watching performances live is a stunning experience. “Opera has been able to take advantage of the high-tech revolution in home entertainment, television and cinema and more and more people are discovering it. We are dedicated to presenting full and positive new productions in regional theatres. “We want to give the opportunity to audiences to experience these classics at a fraction of the cost they would pay in big cities, give them great pleasure and inspire them to want more. Opera lovers the world over have taken Rigoletto to their hearts, and you are bound to be drawn in and immersed in the atmosphere that this production radiates. It will be an unforgettable experience for all.” See the advert below for booking details.

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Thomas, OR members of his team at Special Auction Services, will value portable items between 10am and 3.30pm on: Monday 9th February

Jury’s Inn, Fleming Way, Swindon SN1 2NG

Valuations are by appointment only. Please call 01635 580595 or visit www. specialauctionservices.com to arrange an appointment

swindonlink.com n February 2015

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All aspects of building and maintenance work carried out to private and public properties. Please call for a free quotation. 01793 871660 (Office) Mob: 075151 25060 derek.richardson5@virginmedia.com 24 The Elms, Nine Elms Swindon SN5 5XA

• General building maintenance • Garage conversions • Bathroom makeovers • Carpentry • Wall & floor tiling • Plastering/Plaster boarding/Coving • UPVC doors, windows & repairs • Fascias, soffits, guttering • Patios and fencing Insurance work undertaken For a prompt professional service contact Andy: 07969350160 /01793 435513 www.acphomeimprovements.co.uk

Earthmoving Services • Garden/site shaping, levelling, clearance • Footings, trenches & ditches excavated • Hardcore sub-bases & roadways/tracks • Concrete, tarmac, hedge & stump removal • Soil screening/debris removal • Micro excavator, minimum access width required: 29” (730mm)

ELECTRICIAN

Call Mark: 01793 887766 Mob: 07979 267757

SWINDON GAS SERVICES

GASTECH

Semi-retired Plumber 24hr emergency call out

Design to Installation

FREE CONSULTATIONS & ESTIMATES

01793 670115 or 0784 182 6390

★ boiler changes ★ boiler breakdown ★ full central heating systems ★ heating system upgrades ★ power flushing ★ bathroom suites ★ all types of plumbing work undertaken ★ no call out charge ★ 15 years experience 550065

Tel: 01793 848708 or 07967 341567 www.earthmovingservices.co.uk

All Work Guaranteed Quality Finish And Attention To Detail Is Assured

for a Free Estimate

Tel: 01793 871 593 Mob: 07503 210 748

01793 847517

Call Steve to discuss your needs and receive a free estimate

BATHROOMS & KITCHENS

justinhallplumbing@gmail.com

RepaiRs, installation, Maintenance FRee Quotes! excellent seRvice!

www.swindongasservices.co.uk

C.P.C.S Licensed • Fully Insured

ASHDOWN

Call Justin:

• Extensions • Driveways • Conservatories • Patios • Garden Walls • Fencing All general building and landscaping projects undertaken NO JOB TOO SMALL Call Stewart on

• Electrical installations • Modifications • Fault finding • Inspection & Testing • Domestic & Commercial • 24/7 Emergency call-out • Part P & IET Certified

Call Darren on 01793 629 629 www.crannistech.co.uk

www.ashdownbk.co.uk

• Leaks & burst pipes • Blocked drains, sinks & toilets • Immersions & hot water cylinders • Tap washers & ball valves • Complete bathrooms refitted • Dishwashers & washing machines plumbed in • Radiators changed

Tel: 01793 324116 Mob: 07788 621772

THE INDEPENDENT GAS SPECIALISTS

• Servicing, Repairs, Installation • Central Heating (including Combination boilers and Warm Air) • Landlord Safety Checks • Cookers, Fires, Water Heaters

142573

SERVICE CONTRACT SPECIALISTS

FOR GAS SERVICE CALL 01793 848800 6 Templars Way Industrial Est, Marlborough Rd, W. Bassett SN4 7SR

www.gastechwilts.co.uk

Cotswold UPVC Guttering We supply and fit a wide range of Fascias Guttering Soffits Downpipes We aim to beat any legitimate written quotation Please call or email now to discuss your requirements 01993 252028/07584 164636 cotswoldUPVCguttering@ outlook.com

24/7 Emergency Call Out • All Works Guaranteed • Reliable & Affordable

Swindon’s Heating & Plumbing Specialists • Full Central Heating Installations • Boiler Replacement, Servicing & Repair • All Plumbing & Maintenance Services • Full Bathroom Installations • Landlord & Letting Agent Services • Renewable Energy Installations

01793 878636

523887

Power Flus hing Agent

www.CentraHeat.co.uk

CentraHeat.co.uk

www.

All types of electrical work undertaken • House extensions, alterations & rewires • Fault finding & repairs • Fuse board repairs & replacements • Testing & certification • Kitchen installations - cookers & appliances • Intruder alarm systems • Bathroom installations • Supplies to garages & out-houses • Lighting & socket outlets • Exterior lighting & power • 24 hour emergency call out

Fully qualified, NAPIT & Part P Approved Electricians

01793 847575

www.wired-electrical.co.uk

info@wired-electrical.co.uk

07739 357617

swindonlink.com n February 2015

SERVICE SECTOR

GET SOMEONE IN, REPAIR AND IMPROVE: YOUR GUIDE TO HOME MAINTENANCE HELP

BATHROOMS

BATHROOMS & KITCHENS

Plumbing

& Heating MJP Home Creations

❉ Quality bathroom suites

fitted - tiling, electrics, flooring all taken care of ❉ All types of plumbing undertaken - leaking taps, pumps, tanks, burst pipes, 302877 machines installed

Free estimates

Creation Born Of Perfection Specialists in kitchens bathrooms and wetrooms Design and installation, plastering, plumbing, electrics, underfloor heating and tiling

Contact Matthew Pollard: 07779 318717 info@mjphomecreations.com See our customer testimonials: www.mjphomecreations.com

Approved Plumber

01793 876600 07748 964433

mjplumbing64@gmail.com

DECORATOR

& CARPENTRY

• Interior/exterior painting and decorating • Wallpaper • Tiling • Coving • Laminate flooring • Doors & skirting replacement • Kitchen • Bathroom internal alterations No job too small • Rooms left tidy daily Free no obligation 24 hour quotations

Call Andy: 01793 729354

or 07900 835116

• High class painting and decorating • 30 years experience • Competitive rates • Interior & exterior • References available • Reliable friendly service, all work undertaken For free quotation call Paul on

01793 321981 07775 840236

Quality painting and decorating at an affordable price 40 years experience No VAT Free estimates For professional, reliable and friendly service call

GBD Services 01793 979282 or 07453 966627

HEATING & PLUMBING

HOME MAINTENANCE

RJ PeaRce Plumbing & Heating ltd

Quality Plumbing & Heating

G R SERVICES

Over 20 years experience in plumbing & heating work • Central heating • Bathrooms & showers • Competitive rates

7 YEAR GUARANTEE

on Worcester Bosch Ri Si and Cdi boilers

• All work guaranteed • No job too small

Accredited Installer

Do better business! Promote what you do on paper and online @ swindonlink.com Call Sue Roberts to discuss our combined advertising packages

01793 602540 swindonlink.com n February 2015

Est. 30 years • Central heating installation • Boiler servicing & repairs • Replacement boilers • Bathrooms & tiling • Power showers • Outside taps Reg: 128966 All plumbing work undertaken Reliable service, realistic prices

Kevin Rolfe

For further details call Richard on 01793 879156 or 07747 723606

DECORATOR INSIDE AND OUT

DECORATOR

203455

Tel: 01793 881905 Mobile: 07973 663367 www.swindonheating.co.uk

PAINTER & DECORATOR

Painting and decorating Carpentry services Grounds maintenance Turfing, fencing, patios Kitchen & bathroom installations Wall tiling Fascias & guttering Roof repairs Friendly, reliable & competitive

Call Glen on: 01793 487450 07774 841879 email: grservices@hotmail.co.uk

www.grservicesswindon.co.uk

PLASTERING

BSJ PLASTERING & DECORATING SERVICES

All areas of Plastering, Decorating and Refurbishment undertaken

• Ceilings and Walls Plastered • Coving • Rendering • Painting & Decorating - Internal & External • Complete Home Improvements undertaken • Free quotations

Please contact Brian Jones

Mobile: 07976 572905 Home: 01793 725834

Professional, reliable and friendly service www.swindonplasterer.com

SERVICE SECTOR

GET SOMEONE IN, REPAIR AND IMPROVE: YOUR GUIDE TO HOME MAINTENANCE HELP

BLINDS

the place for quality and value

Brighten up your home for Winter with a rainbow of colours!

Suppliers of all types of blinds, awnings and shutters Full fitting service or cash & carry Open: Mon to Thurs 9.30am - 5.30pm Fri 9.30am - 5pm; Sat 10am - 4pm BSS House, Cheney Manor, Swindon

BUILDING SERVICES

CARPENTRY

Paul Rhind

J S Property Services

Bathroom suites and kitchens fitted

UPVC windows & doors Conservatories, fascias and guttering Roofing & building maintenance Painting, decorating, ceramic tiling

Home & Garden Improvements General carpentry Fitted kitchens / bedrooms Laminate and solid flooring Replacement doors Skirtings / architraves Decking and patios General building maintenance

www.charismablinds.co.uk

Telephone/fax: 01793 874807

DECORATOR

DOUBLE GLAZING

✓ Registered & recommended by the Painting & Decorating Association ✓ Age UK Registered ✓ Full public liability insurance Free advice and quotations contact Darryl Bevan on 01793 497461 or 07919 671307

HOME MAINTENANCE Services

(Household Maintenance) Handyman

• Plastering • Carpentry • Garden Maintenance • Decorating, Coving • Groundwork • Tiling • Bathroom & Kitchen Installation • Fencing & Patios • Power Jetting • Building, installing partition walls, loft boarding & repairs Competitive Rates, Flexible Hours, Reliable, No job too small

REDUCTIONS FOR OAPs

&D eco rat or

ter

✓ Excellent references

ain

✓ Competitive rates (no VAT)

INTERIOR & EXTERIOR

Call 01793 334823 or 07788 572043

✓ Specialist in insurance claims & DIY 'rescues’

✓ Domestic, commercial & letting

FREE ESTIMATES

PA I N T I N G A N D D E C O R AT I N G

A C h a n g e o f Co l o u r

Tel: 01793 434584

Free estimates Call Jamie on 704309 or 0777 594 8833 www.jspropertyservices.co.uk

Experienced in all aspects of interior and exterior decorating

Doctor Glass

repairs & replaces cracked, broken or misted double glazed windows Also hinges and locks

INTERIOR H EXTERIOR WALLPAPERING H COVING H

• 20 years experience • Competitive rates • No job too small • Reliable & friendly service • Free estimates

Call Stuart on 01793 727659 or 07809 368051

ELECTRICIAN SAFE & SHAW

ELECTRICAL SERVICES ✓ EXTRA SOCKETS / LIGHTS ✓ SECURITY LIGHTING/FIRE ALARMS ✓ GARDEN LIGHTING & OUTDOOR SOCKETS ✓ SHOWERS/COOKERS INSTALLED ✓ FUSE BOARD REPLACEMENT ✓ COMPLETE RE-WIRING FREE QUOTATIONS, NO OBLIGATION

Call: 01793 854448 or 07976 219671

Please call Paul Eastham on 07769 883717

KITCHEN & BATHROOM SERVICES

PLANS DRAWN

APPRENTICESHIP SERVED TRADESMAN

Loft conversion & extension specialist. Complete house design and commercial work undertaken.

• Free survey • Building work • Plastering • Tiling • Electrics • Plumbing • Wooden flooring • All types of worktops fitted including granite

For a free no obligation quote call Gary on

For a complete professional service contact:

Mobile: 07764 511933 or Tel: 01793 879069

Tel: 874480 Mobile: 07860 760364 30 years experienced tradesman

PLUMBING

DECORATOR

STEVE GEORGE TILING

APPROVED

TILING

From initial concept to full working drawings my service includes: • written specifications; • contractor tender documents; • all forms and paperwork carried out; • liaison with relevant authorities; • Party Wall Act paperwork and advice given. 7 DAY DESIGN SERVICE for most domestic work Established 1980. All areas covered

Call Bob on 07778 324228

WOODWORK

GILES BROS General Domestic Plumbing Leaks, Burst Pipes and Sinks Taps, Showers and Overflows Gutter Installation Repairs and Cleaning No job too small No call out charge & free quotation Contact Owen Tel: 07708 644500 or: qplumbingswindon@gmail.com

CERAMIC TILING FLOOR & WALL SPECIALISTS

TILING

Free Quotes Call Lee on 0771 8102 921

Please call Leon for a free quote

TEL: 01793 330975 MOB: 07919 255673

TRADITIONAL HANDMADE KITCHENS, FURNITURE, FITTED WARDROBES BESPOKE JOINERY WINDOWS, DOORS, GATES CONSERVATORIES SKIRTING AND ARCHITRAVES

Call Mike on 0778 8444 084 or 01793 520526

Email: leon.jack@hotmail.co.uk Kitchens, Bathrooms and Conservatories

www.britishwoodwork.co.uk info@britishwoodwork.co.uk

WALL & FLOOR SPECIALIST

01793 978274

swindonlink.com n February 2015

SERVICE SECTOR

GET SOMEONE IN, REPAIR AND IMPROVE: YOUR GUIDE TO HOME MAINTENANCE HELP

ACCOUNTANCY S J BAKER ACCOUNTING LTD

CERTIFIED CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS

S J BAKER FCCA

ACCOUNTANCY

CJD

ACCOUNTANCY LTD

Craig Dell FCCA

Self Assessments Limited company set up and Accounts Contractors IT and Medical Partnership and Sole Trader Accounts Tax Advice Bookkeeping and Payroll Construction Industry Scheme * MONTHLY FIXED FEES * NO EXTRA CHARGES * * AVAILABLE EVENINGS AND WEEKENDS *

Chartered Certified Accountant Over 20 year’s experience for all your accountancy & taxation needs including: • Self Assessments • Sole Traders • Partnerships • Limited Companies • Available evenings and weekends • Fixed fee quotes • No VAT • First consultation free

TELEPHONE: 01793 495559 MOBILE: 07717 752116

Tel: 01793 343255 M: 07557 399987 Email: cjd.accountancy@virginmedia.com

email: info@sjbakeraccounting.co.uk

www.cjd-accountancy.co.uk

BOOK-KEEPING

CARPET CLEANING

Can’t face doing the books after a hard day’s work? Call Leonard Fuller, A.I.C.B, qualified bookkeeper with over 20 years’ experience.

Tel: 01793 700637 or 07963 637748 www.bookkeepingswindon.co.uk

COMPUTER SUPPORT

AERIAL SERVICES

Aerial Solutions • Does your picture freeze and break up? • Would you like TV points in other rooms? • Do you want Freesat or Sky installed?

Then contact your local VAT free aerial and satellite installers

01793 744957

50% off digital aerials

CARPET CLEANING

The Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Specialist

Carpets, Rugs and Fabric Upholstery

01793 602540 40

swindonlink.com n February 2015

✭ ✭ ✭ ✭

Freeview & Sky installations TV & radio aerials Home cinema Extra TV & telephone points NO VAT

Tel: 01793 700078 Mobile: 07904 330724

CARPET CLEANING

Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Natural Stone Restoration

Hard Floors Cleaned & Sealed

Email: cliff.whiteway@btinternet.com

www.abacuscleaningswindon.co.uk

www.procleancleaningservices.co.uk

COMPUTER SUPPORT

FURNITURE WANTED

You’ll be amazed how affordable it is ....call for your free estimate from your local independent on 01793 731418 or mobile: 07808 355487

Carpet & Upholstery Protection Treatments Insecticide & Anti-Static Treatments Spot & Stain Removal Fully Insured, NCCA member Independently owned & operated To arrange for a free estimate call

01793 421802

h Domestic and Commercial h End of Tenancy Cleaning h Stain Removal h Tile & Grout Colour Sealing h Driveway/Patio Cleaning h Stone Cleaning & Sealing h Free Competitive Quote h Fully Insured

Mobile: 07506 740921

Est 2002 For all your computing needs

• • • • •

Hardware & Software Installs & Upgrades Repairs • Maintenance • PC Security Home or Business Networking Wireless Setup On Site Service, Home or Business

For a dedicated local service with a Microsoft Certified Professional, with over 21 years experience, call 01793 320 439 or 07799 337 918 E: info@compucareuk.com www.compucareuk.com

is a West Swindon based charity, providing furniture and white goods to people in need Call the collections line on 07714 091011 HELP US TO HELP OTHERS

Tel: 01793 325685

Call Sue Roberts to discuss our combined advertising packages

aerials & satellite systems

• Carpets, rugs, curtains, suites etc • Emergency call out available • Hard floors cleaned and sealed • Stain removal • Protection treatment • Fully insured • Quickly usable

We provide a range of computer services for both home and business including: • PC repairs and maintenance • System upgrades, networking • Custom built computers • Windows home server installs • Virus removal • Data recovery • Internet solutions • Web design With over 15 years experience, you can rely on us

Promote your business on paper and online @ swindonlink.com

Chris Payne

Abacus Cleaning Services

Computer problems? Let us help

Make an impact!

AERIAL SERVICES

LOCKSMITH

OVEN CLEANING

WHITE VAN MAN

KEY CUTTING KEY CUTTING KEY CUTTING

Ovens, ranges, agas, hobs extractors and microwaves

BROKEN OR FAULTY LOCK? LOCKED OUT? Local Locksmith and Carpenter Not a call centre with huge charges! Genuine 24hr service

Call now on 07734 253189 Registered Company CRB Checked/Fully Insured

KEY CUTTING KEY CUTTING KEY CUTTING

REMOVALS

Fixed pricing examples Single Oven £40 - Range £60 No hidden extras, includes racks, doors, glass 20 years experience No toxic chemicals in your home Reliable & Friendly Free Quotation To book your oven clean call

01793 733822 or emai:

oven@enlan.co.uk

SINGLE ITEMS MOVED ANYWHERE IN SWINDON FOR ONLY £35

• Full house removal • House clearance • Disposal of unwanted items • Any distance long/short • Fully insured NEW: Licensed to remove fridges

Call for a FREE quote Mobile: 07796 236436

SERVICE SECTOR

GET SOMEONE IN, REPAIR AND IMPROVE: YOUR GUIDE TO HOME MAINTENANCE HELP

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

HALE SKILLS • Washing Machines • Cookers • Dishwashers

Guaranteed repairs to all makes of domestic appliances

• Dryers • Vacuum Cleaners

Same day/next day service

Tel: 01793 469300 CLEANING THE CLEANING & IRONING SERVICE House cleans from £16 per house. Around £26 for a 4 bed.

Weekly, fortnightly or monthly cleans. One-off Spring cleans Ironing £17 per basket, collected and returned the next day

Call 01793 875665 07780625244

Unit 2, River Ray Ind. Est., Barnfield Road, Swindon SN2 2DT

Tel 01793 847545 Email enquiries@dimensions.org.uk www.dimensions.org.uk

Homes That Sparkle From People Who Shine

NEW GRAB Y LORR

Affordable & reliable cleaning programmes, tailored to meet your needs and budget Regular cleans, Spring cleans, Moving in or out cleans Trained and insured staff Equipment and supplies provided Quality Service Guarantee

Call us now for free, no obligation quotation Tel: 01793 511885

MAN & VAN SERVICE GRABSOLUTE BAG & GRAB HIRE

GARDEN

OFFICE

GARAGE DOORS Installation & Repairs New Doors • Automation No Obligation Quotes Est. 1981 Maxwell House, Maxwell Street, Swindon SN1 5DR Tel: (01793) 618499 or 513796 swindondoorservices@ btinternet.com

www.garagedoorsupplies.co.uk

RODDERS SCRAP METAL

Gogglebox

M & J Upholsterers

Registered waste carrier

DAMP SOLUTIONS

Showroom:

UPHOLSTERY

01793 613396 07899 018167

BUSINESS

IS DAMP A PROBLEM IN YOUR HOME?

TV REPAIRS

Washing machines, cookers, microwaves etc. Sorry no fridges or freezers Scrap cars collected FREE of charge

HOME

Call us today on 0800 68 999 88 or 01793 434600 or book online at www.absolute-rubbish.co.uk

SCRAP METAL

All metals removed FREE of charge

Call 07963 131429 e.mail: haleskills@gmail.com

CLEARANCE

CLEANING

GARAGE DOORS

Electrical Automation • Up & Over • Roller • Sectional • Repairs •

Over 30 year’s experience

New TV tuning & system set-up In house TV repairs In house estimates

Call Darryl Pace on 01793 812738

LEATHER REPAIRS Scuffs - Burns - Tears - Cleaning

REFURBISHMENTS & ALL SUITE REPAIRS New seat interiors - Seams - Zips Springs - Re-upholstery - Dining Fireside chairs etc. Repairs carried out in situ Established 1972

Call 07709 453949 emanjayupholstery@gmail.com

Do you have: • Rising damp • Streaming windows? • Damp clothing & furniture? • Unsightly black mould? • Wet internal walls? • Mould and odours?

Damp surveys undertaken All damp problems solved Call now for free advice

01793 886222

www.swindondamp.co.uk swindonlink.com n February 2015

Matt’s Rome run completes 2,000k odyssey for charity AT THE end of 2013 Matt Cordas set himself the long term challenge of running a minimum of 5.64km every day in 2014 in aid of St James’ Place Foundation totalling over 2,000 kilometres. This represents the distance from Cirencester, where Matt works for St James’ Place financial services, to the Eternal City. On 31 December 2014 Matt, from Lydiard Millicent, made his final run in Rome before celebrating the

New Year with his friend and work colleague Jordan Toomer. Matt said: “Last January was tough knowing there were 11 months to go. But the support from colleagues and friends, and most of all my family, inspired me.” With match funding from St James’ Place and Gift Aid, Matt’s total is £12,000 After a brief rest Matt is now back in training to tackle the 2015 London Marathon.

Go mad in March to welcome Mother’s Day THE countdown is on for the 8th Mad March Hare in aid of Breakthrough Breast Cancer on Sunday 15 March. The fun walk/run/jog event over a 5k or 10k course around West Swindon and through Lydiard Park welcomes people of all ages and abilities to get out and enjoy taking exercise. Individuals, families and groups of friends and work colleagues all turn out in great flamboyance to take part. Dogs are also welcome with well behaved owners. Lorraine Fleming, a family support worker from North Swindon plans to run the 5k route with her 8 year

old son while husband, Andrew, and 5 year old daughter, Jessica will follow on. She said: “I ran the route with James last year and it sparked a real passion for running in him. He’s now the youngest member of his school’s running club and has run in other local events.” Paula Watkins was struck by the organisation of the day and the support team of volunteers serving much needed refreshments. To take part or volunteer to help at the event, register at madmarchhare.org.uk, email: info@madmarchhare.org.uk or call 0845 6808064.

Matt marking his colossal achievement outside one of Rome’s iconic sights with the January Link

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Receive up to £2,000 Free* towards any combination of: • Cane, Rattan or Laminated Wood Furniture • Tiled Floors • Ceiling Fans • Electric Heaters • Lights

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Show site at: Manor Garden Centre, Cheney Manor, Swindon SN2 2QJ Tel: 01793 526691 • conservatory world@btconnect.com • www.conservatorycentres.co.uk 42

swindonlink.com n February 2015

Toffolo is keen to give back to Swindon

HARRY Toffolo is hoping to repay the community of Swindon for the warm welcome they have given him following his loan move from Norwich City by taking on charity work in the town in 2015. The teenager, currently on a season-long deal at the County Ground, tweeted his intentions to undergo voluntary work earlier this week and he recently told the local press why he wanted to help where he can. Toffolo said: “The amount of support you get as an athlete, or Defender Harry Toffolo is keen in any sport – those people come to get involved in charity work and they care and if it means during his time at Swindon going off to spend half-an-hour of my day to make someone else happy I don’t mind doing that. for other people because it was “We finish here at half one; I’d tough, it was hard. I can use my rather do that than win a season experiences from that to help on FIFA or Football Manager. people get through theirs. You’ve got to go out and do and “Anything where I can influence give back to people who give to another individual or make them you. That’s one thing I’ve always happier or change their life in any had instilled in my life, with my way; I’ll do as much as I can for family. them. Ferndale net “They’ve always ball club “If it means me is looking fo said ‘give back’ staying for a few r more play ers. hours to speak The team tr and that’s ain at Lydiar d Park to 20 different Academy on one thing I’m Mondays, 8 pm to 9pm, and pl looking to do in children at ayers of all abilities from the new year.” a hospital or the age of 1 4 are welcome to The wing-back something like join. Contact Sara Greaves: trea would be open that, I’m very surer.fernda le nc@ keen to do that vi rg inmedia.com to any charity or call 0783 74942 work on offer in just to give back to 88. the region over the them. It’s the least they coming months, saying: deserve, really. “I like to do my bit for Dementia “Footballers are renowned for Friends and my aunty had a brain having a bad press but I believe tumour, so that’s one of the things there are so many footballers out I’m very passionate about. My there who are genuine. They want Italian grandfather passed away to do well and give their overview with dementia and it’s one of to other people and give them the those things I want to give back best opportunity in life as well.”

Player of the month launches LINK Sport has teamed up with Swindon Town and the club’s main sponsor, Imagine Cruising, to relaunch the ‘Player of the Month’ award at the County Ground. Town fans will be able to vote for the player they feel has contributed the most to the Robins’ cause each month, with all those who make a nomination in the free-to-enter ballot automatically entered into a prize draw at the end of the season to win a P&O taster cruise courtesy of Imagine Cruising. Voting will open on the Link Sport website 10 days before the end of each month, with the player who earns the most votes over

the course of the polling period receiving their award on the County Ground pitch prior to the first home game of the following month. Swindon Town commercial manager Keelan McNally said: “Swindon Town Football Club are delighted to be working alongside Swindon Link, who will be running our “Player of the Month” competition through their website in conjunction with our main sponsors, Imagine Cruising. “This is a fantastic opportunity for Swindon Town, Swindon Link and Imagine Cruising to engage with fans and allow them to have their say, highlighting the community spirit of our football club.”

For the best local sports news, reports and opinion visit

www.swindonlinksport.com

swindonlink.com n February 2015

Storm has a team for all ages Wildcats’ head coach writes for Link Sport

Our fans are awesome

SWINDON Storm are now offering young players from the age of 14 the chance to get involved in American football. Having run a senior team in the British national leagues for two years, the club are now running Youth and Junior Varsity teams which means aspiring players in Swindon have more chance than ever before to get started in the game. The 14-16 year olds can join the youth programme, with a development team who will hold combined training sessions

American football club launch new sides for young players with the best players in the region between now and Easter, before going on and potentially representing the National League side in tournaments throughout Southern England. Young players aged 17-21 will take on teams from Bath, Gloucester, Bristol and Cardiff in the ground breaking Bristol Academy Community League, managed by South Gloucestershire and Stroud College. Games will be played under

floodlights at Filton Campus on the brand new authentic High School field, with NFL style goal posts and college score board giving the tournament a real ‘Friday Night Lights’ feel. Players aged 18 and over will then graduate into the Storm senior side as they make a run for the National League Division Two title over the summer. Anyone wishing to get involved can find out more by logging onto www.swindonstorm.org.

IT ALWAYS amazes me just how loyal our fans are. They follow us everywhere, even the tough places like Sheffield, Manchester and Peterborough. It’s great for the boys to come out and always see some fans there, waiting to cheer us on. Every Sunday night they are up and down the country to watch us, it’s really good. It reminds me of when I was a hockey mad kid and used to do the same thing every week. My mum and dad used to drive me everywhere to watch Swindon and it was really fun. We used to go to Blackburn, some teams in Scotland, everywhere. That just makes me realise quite how much these guys give up to follow us. I know the guys really do appreciate how much they give up for us and for that reason they always like to take time out to acknowledge the support they give us.

Aldridge wants Lyle to continue

Volunteers are needed to join Swindon Sports Forum, the voice of the town’s sporting community. It provides support to over 350 local sports clubs ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to participate in sport in Swindon at their level of ability. The Forum provides: • Advice on topics such as finance, governance, marketing health & safety • Access to club, coach and participant funding • Access to training opportunities for clubs and coaches

To take the Swindon Sports Forum to the next level, we are looking for people who have a genuine interest in sport and could gift some time to help with the Forum’s activities such as: • Attending steering groups and planning for the future • Organising events • Website development • Database management • PR support • Strategy support To make a big difference to sport in Swindon contact the chair David Bell to find out more: David.m.bell@btinternet.com

swindonlink.com n February 2015

RYAN Aldridge remains hopeful “What can I say to Stevie with the netminder Stevie Lyle will opt career he has had,” Aldridge said. against retiring at the end of the “He is enjoying his hockey and season after yet a string when he is doing that he plays of stunning displays well for us which is good. Wildcats youngsters recently. “I don’t think he is Glenn Billing, Adam The Welshman Finlinson, Luc Johnson, Toms thinking about that revealed prior to Rutkis,Michael Stratford, Ben (retiring) right now. Nethersall and Kyle Smith have I’m not really thinking the season that been named in GB U18s squad about it. I am hoping this campaign for the World Championship it’s not going to happen, could be the last of in Estonia next month his glittering career hopefully he has got but, after once again another year in him and I justifying Aldridge’s belief he would love him to be back next possesses the best netminder in the year. league, the Cats coach wans him to “There is no doubt about that, but change his mind. that decision is his.”

FEBRUARY FIXTURES @ SWINDON ICE ARENA Saturday 7 Feb (6pm), EPIHL: Swindon Wildcats v Bracknell Bees Sat 14 Feb (6pm), EPIHL: Swindon Wildcats v Manchester Phoenix Weds 18 Feb (7.45pm), EPIHL: Swindon Wildcats v MK Lighting Sat 28 Feb (6pm), EPIHL: Swindon Wildcats v Bracknell Bees

Link Sport looks at three coaches leading their country in 2015...

Swindon trio taking on the world SWINDON is a town regularly in 2012, took on his country’s top targeted by professional troll Katie job in January 2014 and proved to Hopkins, lightly ridiculed in Ricky be an instant hit. Gervais’s hit comedy The Office and Despite not being given a chance frequently featured highly in ‘Britain’s by many experts, Rossiter and his worst places to live’ lists. Lions progressed straight through However, despite many being ready to the final of last summer’s World to point out all its faults, Swindon is Cup, following a stunning victory at a place which can now boast three King’s Lynn in Event One. The Brits top line international sports coaches. eventually finished last in the final, Pete Russell is the latest name to but major progress was made for a join the gang of Swindon sporting country which has ground to make leaders, having been appointed head up on their European rivals. coach of the Great Britain senior Rossiter has been vocal regarding ice hockey side recently, putting his hometown pride, often sticking him alongside GB speedway boss up for Swindon in the face of those Alun Rossiter and Anna who choose to criticise, with that Mayes, who leads feeling multiplied now he’s also in Swindon Hockey the England Club charge of his country. are looking for netball “If you have any ambition new players. Children in year team. it has to be your goal to s 4-9 are invited to attend All coach or lead your country, free taster sessions at Isam bard School on it’s an amazing feeling three Wednesdays fro m 6-7pm. have a and it’s something I’m very Those interested proud to be doing,” he said. email juniorsswindonh ockeyclub “Having everyone together, all @hotmail.com. background representing your country, is a of success, massive thing and the atmosphere with Russell earning was really good in the team. There himself the top job following a long were a lot of people out there who association with the GB U20s side helped me last year and I’m so which most recently saw he and grateful for their support. his team claim Under 20 World “Having three international Championship (Division 2A) gold with coaches in Swindon like that is an a win in Estonia in December. awesome thing. Everyone knows Mayes has led her country since about how proud I am to be from 2011 when she was given the top Swindon and it goes to show how job after securing the World Netball the town is a good place to be. Series title as interim boss. Two “What really gets me is all years later, she recorded England’s the celebrities bagging us. Yes, first ever series whitewash of everywhere has its faults but for Australia before narrowly missing some reason people try to paint out on a medal at last summer’s Swindon in a bad way. Commonwealth Games. “I don’t think there’s an awful Rossiter, having led Coventry lot wrong with it and I’m proud to to Elite League glory in 2010 and represent my home town.” guided the Robins to the same title Unlike Rossiter, you only have to

speak to proud Scot Russell to know he’s a long way from being Swindon born and bred, but that doesn’t mean he isn’t honoured to represent the town on the international stage. “It’s unreal really, it’s all happened really fast and for this to happen so soon after what we did with the under 20s, I really couldn’t have wished for a better Christmas,” he said. “It’s an amazing feeling and I just can’t wait to get going now. I’ve been involved with the younger teams for a long time now and last year was an assistant with the seniors, but the top job wasn’t something I was really thinking about to be honest and I just wanted to be involved in some way. “It came out of the blue when they called me, I’d heard a few

whispers while I was out in Estonia but I thought it was about being an assistant, but they called me on my daughter’s first birthday and it was an amazing double whammy. “There was only one answer from there, it’s an amazing opportunity. “To have so many international managers and coaches from one small town like Swindon is a wonderful thing and I’m honoured to be the latest one of those.” All three coaches have major targets this season, Russell is gunning for World Championship success in April, Rossiter is targeting a World Cup medal in July and Mayes will be looking for her own World Cup gold in August. With so much promise, 2015 could well be a massive year for sport in Swindon.

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www.swindoncycles.co.uk swindonlink.com n February 2015

There’s no excuse for Nick to come back to England rusty

Time to show support

Back garden track will prepare Morris for start of new season NICK Morris may not be taking part in the Australian Championship this winter, but he has no excuse for returning to Europe rusty in the new year. The 20-year-old, who is the third member of Swindon Robins’ top five to be announced for 2015, has opted out of riding in the national series but does have bikes in Australia in order to practice during his stay Down Under. While other riders in Australia will be looking for track time wherever possible, Morris’s girlfriend’s family have a purpose-built track in their yard, which the Robins rider is making the most of. “I’m not doing the Aussie titles or anything, I’m going to relax a little bit because I did a lot of racing last year but I’ll find time to relax a little too,” he said. “My girlfriend’s got a track in her

Nick Morris is back with Swindon Robins for the 2015 season back yard so I’ve been out there a fair bit, trying to get better. “I’ve got a bit lucky there I think, her brother wants to start racing and they have a block of land so they built a really awesome speedway track. I’m going to help him a little bit and it works out

The Robins boss writes for Link Sport

great for me too. “It’s easy for me to get out there so I’ll be doing that a lot, they have a water truck and everything there so it’s great. It would be up there with a lot of Premier League tracks for sure so I’ve got really luck with this one.”

IT’S great news we’re having the Ben Fund meeting at Swindon in March and it’s so important to remember what a great job they do. You only have to look where the money goes. It goes to riders like Ricky Ashworth and a load of others who are injured and in need of help so it’s so good we can still look after our own in speedway. It should serve as a reminder to us all how important it is, especially the current riders who should see it’s for such a good cause. When I was riding the fund was slightly different but it still helped an awful lot of riders so it’s a great thing. You may not think it’s ever going to be you that needs the help but it can be, you only have to look at riders like Ricky who has needed their help. Hopefully we’ll get a really big crowd out and people will be hungry for racing, with the Blunsdon track in tip-condition.

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swindonlink.com n February 2015

SWINDON promoter Keith Mayo 2008 and he cannot wait to hear believes his 13 February show the first bell ring for what he at the Oasis Leisure Centre will claims will be his best event yet. be the best boxing spectacle the “It’s taken a bit of time to town has ever seen. finalise but we are delighted with With former Commonwealth the card we have put together,” Games gold medallist Eamonn said Mayo. O’Kane now confirmed as the “This show is in association with headline act, Mayo is confident Paddy Fitzpatrick which means the show, which is being staged we have been able to bring in in association with a big name like Eamonn Swindon trainer O’Kane to Swindon. tton Woo ER FORM Paddy Fitzpatrick, Bassett junior Jonny May Eamonn is ranked will be a sell-out. eighth in the IBF recently played his 100th Joining ratings and is a r. ceste Glou game for middleweight name every boxing repre to set is who , back The star O’Kane, fan will know ons, sent England in the Six Nati who is rated having won gold at the in e ston reached the mile eighth in the IBF the Commonwealth win over Saracens world rankings, are Games, we are in January five Swindon boxers delighted to have him in Kelvin Young, Luke on our show. Watkins, Ryan Martin, Garvey “And before Eamonn fights we Kelly and Danny Bharj. Newly have what I believe is the best crowned British Masters Bronze undercard I’ve ever had on one of light heavyweight champion Tariq my shows with all six boxers on Quaddus, managed by Mayo, the hunt and capable of winning makes up the seven fight card. British titles down the line.” It will be Mayo’s 14th Tickets for the show are priced promotion in Swindon since at £35 standard and £60 VIP/ he staged the first professional ringside. Call Keith Mayo on boxing show in the town for 07789890453 or any of the almost three decades back in boxers for details.

Discover park home life at Blunsdon Abbey Park Paralympian Judith Hamer pictured at Commonweal School

Paralympian helps nurture talent GREAT Britain wheelchair basketball star Judith Hamer recently made her third visit to Commonweal School in Swindon in a bid to help inspire the next generation of young players in the town. Hamer, a key part of the GB team which finished seventh at the London Paralympics in 2012, has been working with a satellite club jointly set-up between the school and local club Swindon Shock, with the aim of ensuring more young people have the opportunity to take part in sport and can make the transition between school and community sport. Wiltshire and Swindon County Sports Partnership (WASP) help fund a number of satellite clubs, paying expenses for coaches and equipment, which Hamer believes are vital in the battle to increase youngsters’ involvement in sport. She said: “I’ve really enjoyed attending the satellite club sessions at Commonweal School, it has been great talking to the young people in attendance about my own experiences like competing at the London 2012 Paralympic Games.

“Satellite clubs are a fantastic way of helping to get more young people playing sport so I fully support them. “I believe that as a Sport England Sporting Champion, I can inspire everyone in attendance to raise their own aspirations of what they can achieve and motivate them to be the very best versions of themselves that they can be.” Ben Humphrey, who organises the satellite club link between Shock and the local schools, said: “We initially aimed the sessions at 17-19 year olds but found that their fundamental movement and basic motor skills were surprisingly low, so we decided to start working with younger children from primary school age so as to develop their fundamentals skills earlier. “We have seen big improvements across the board since then. “The young people really enjoy attending the sessions and having a GB athlete come along, join in and talk to them about her experiences has been truly inspirational and given them all a big boost to show them what they could achieve in sport.”

For the best local sports news, reports and opinion visit

www.swindonlinksport.com

Tilly surprised by three gold medals FORMER Commonweal School student Tilly Gray was surprised and delighted to collect three lifetime bests and three gold medals at the recent Welsh Short Course Nationals. Gray recorded PBs in the 200m fly, 50m fly and 200m freestyle at the event in Swansea just before Christmas, despite juggling her studies at Bath University with rigorous training for several months and having her schedule disrupted by the temporary closure of the pool in Bath for major refurbishment. The ex-Swindon Dolphin registered times of 2:08.06 in the 200m fly final and 26.86 in the

50m fly final to come home first in each race, and clocked 2:01.53 as she finished third in the 200m free. She also took gold in the 100m fly in a time of 59.32. “I managed to get three lifetime bests and three golds and one bronze, and it was a really respectable meet as well. It was really nice to see how my mental state can help me race,” Gray told Link Sport. “If you’re mentally ready and believe you can do it and don’t put any pressure on yourself it’s amazing how well you can do. “A number of times I’ve been in the best shape of my life but might have doubted myself and not performed as well as I could.”

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