Anything Swindon May 2016 online by Ian Butler

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MESSAGE FROM THE TEAM Welcome to our May edition of The Anything Swindon magazine, this month we have our regular updates from Drove Vets, Empire Cinemas, and Gavin Ellis in our latest update of “The year off of the Gav”. We have many features including our regular Town Centre update as we celebrate the high street, also up the Hill, we celebrate the 2016 Old Town Festival with a four page pullout of events and activities for Swindon’s biggest free family event, starting June 11th with a week of activities detailed in the centre pages.

INSIDE THIS ISSUE: 04

WYVERN THEATRE UPDATE

TOWN CENTRE FOCUS

FARSIGHT WILLS FEATURE

DROVE VETS FEATURE

JENSONS OF GORSEHILL

SNDOGS UPDATE

SLIMMING WORLD FEATURE

OLD TOWN FESTIVAL ITINERARY

THE YEAR “OFF” OF THE GAV

COUNCILLOR UPDATES

MOVIE NEWS

Happy reading!

VSF FEATURE

Graham and Ian

We hit the stage with updates from The Wyvern Theatre promoting fantastic upcoming shows starring groups of people from across the town including the 2016 Summer Youth Project. Kentwood “The choir with a difference” and we have an update from Pat Bennett of Estelle School of Dance as she and her students prepare for this year’s show “Peter Pan” which will be on the Wyvern stage in June. We would also like to welcome our new readers as we further expand our routes into Wanborough, Wroughton, Badbury Park and The Lawns. If you would like to advertise in upcoming editions of The Anything Swindon Magazine or you would like to share your plans or stories of success, please contact me or Ian using our contact information below.

Design editor: Ian E: ian@screamingmedia.co.uk Editor: Graham E: graham@screamingmedia.co.uk Advertising: Telephone 01793 977117

Designed & Printed: Screaming Media Ltd www.screamingmedia.co.uk Readership: 75,000 Circulation: 25,000 Online View 15,000 per month,

The Anything Swindon magazine is now working with The woodland Trust, Supporting the campaign to protect precious ancient woods by supporting the ones that are damaged and fight for those under threat. Established in 1972, the Woodland Trust is the UK’s largest woodland conservation charity. Over the last 40 years or so, we have acquired more than 1,000 woodland sites covering over 20,000 hectares (50,000 acres). The Woodland Trust is a charity registered in England and Wales (No. 294344) and in Scotland (No. SC038885).

Wyvern Theatre Update NSBRC Main Feature

GREASE IS THE WORD FOR NEW YOUTH PROJECT SPONSOR The Wyvern Theatre have announced that local creative services company Screaming Media will be the new sponsor for this year’s Summer Youth Project production of Grease.

The sponsorship deal between the theatre and Screaming Media secures a brand-new partnership which is set to benefit both parties during the run up to the Youth Project, which takes place in August. “Screaming Media are delighted to have the opportunity to sponsor the 2016 Summer youth project” said Company Director Graham Worrallo. “As a business we are keen to support local events and what better way to do this than supporting this fantastic activity.” “The youth project is a fantastic annual tradition and we, like the many local young performers are absolutely delighted to be involved. My wife performed in the first Summer Youth Project “Bugsy Malone” in 1994 at the age of 14, giving her the foundations to choreograph and dance in performances all over Europe before returning to Swindon where she now teaches with Gemma Short School of dance.” Screaming Media provide a wide range of affordable services from print to web design, marketing support and distribution. The company also produce the popular Anything Swindon magazine, which is freely distributed around many areas of Swindon. Graham and Co-Director Ian Butler have rapidly and successfully grown both sides of the business and pride themselves on their exceptional quality. Theatre Marketing Manager Laura James said; “I am delighted that Screaming Media have agreed to come on board with us as sponsors of this year’s Summer Youth Project. We have worked together quite a bit over the last year,

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and Screaming won the contract to produce our 2015 Pantomime Programme which we were thrilled with. We are so excited about this year’s production of Grease, it’s set to be our best yet so it’s brilliant to have the support of a great sponsor.”

The aim of Summer Youth Project is to provide up to 250 local young people, aged 9 – 21, with the opportunity to work together in a professional theatre. The project culminates in five performances of a full-scale musical under the supervision of a highly skilled creative team including a professional director, choreographer, musical director, musicians and technical team all in less than 2 weeks. Grease follows ten working-class teenagers from Rydell High School as they navigate the complexities of peer pressure, politics, personal core values and a side of Summer Lovin’! The legendary musical is packed full of unforgettable numbers such as You’re The One That I Want, Summer Nights, Hopelessly Devoted To You and Greased Lightnin’. Over 300 local young people auditioned for the show in April, Grease promises to be the Wyvern’s most electrifyin’ Project yet.

Grease will open at the Wyvern Theatre on Thu 25 August and run until Sun 27 August 2016. Book tickets today at swindontheatres.co.uk or by calling the Ticket Office on 01793 524 481.

S u m m e r Y o u t h P r o j e c t 201 6 presents

Thu 25 – Sat 27 August BOOK , MUSIC, AND LYRICS BY JIM JACOBS AND WARREN C ASEY ‘GREASE’ IS PRESENTED THROUGH SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT WITH AND ALL AUTHORISED PERFORMANCES MATERIALS ARE SUPPLIED BY THEATRICAL RIGHTS WORLDWIDE (TRW) OF NEW YORK ‘HOPELESSLY DEVOTED TO YOU’, ‘YOU’RE THE ONE THAT I WANT’, ‘SANDY’ AND ‘GREASE’ BY ARRANGEMENT WITH ROBERT STIGWOOD

PROUDLY SPONSORED BY

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

BOOK ONLINE swindontheatres.co.uk

#SYP16

Town Centre Focus

inSwindon Company welcomes IS0001 Loyalty Card BID Vinyl A5.qxp_Layout 1 09/02/2016 15:16 Page 1you to the Town Centre Whether it’s for day to day shopping, or looking for that something extra special, Swindon Town centre shops are a mix of high street departmental stores, independent retailers and the quaint and curious.

FREE Town Centre Loyalty Card Town Centre

Swindon Loyalty Card

Take advantage of great oﬀers and discounts in many town centre stores

ACCEPTED HERE

Situated in the heart of the town and within easy walking distance from the bus and train stations, The Parade is your first point of call for all your shopping needs. The Parade is also home to the likes of River Island, Debenhams, Tesco, BHS, Topshop, Topman and much more. The Parade strive to make your shopping experience as convenient, easy and enjoyable as possible. The Brunel Centre has over 110 shops including independent stores, cafes and eateries - there is so much for everyone. With boutique stores including The Forum and John Anthony to larger brands like House of Fraser, M&S and Boots - you’ll be sure to always find the perfect gift, no matter what the occasion. Exciting new regeneration building work is currently taking place on Havelock Square. Havelock Street is very much still open as normal - make sure you don’t miss the specialist independent shops and eateries. Regent Circus is a major retail and leisure development at the top of the town centre. The complex is home to an array of big name chains including Cineworld, Morrisons, Prezzo, Nandos, Coal Bar and Grill, ASK Italian and Gourmet Burger Kitchen.

Get your Loyalty Card from

www.swindontowncentre.co.uk @inSwindon

inSwindon BID Company Ltd

For Business For Shopping For Leisure Business Improvement District

inSwindon BID will be hosting events throughout the town centre during the summer, including Alice looking through the Glass Friday 3rd & Saturday 4th June and a Chilli Fest on Saturday 30th July for all those wanting to test their taste buds to the limit. Take advantage of the FREE Swindon Loyalty Card! Great offers and discounts in many of the town centre stores. For all the latest news and great offers you can follow inSwindon on Twitter: @inswindon or like them on Facebook: inswindon! Visit the inSwindon website for more information or get your free discount card www.swindontowncentre.co.uk

For more information please visit

www.swindontowncentre.co.uk @inSwindon inSwindon BID Company Ltd Or give us call on (01793) 485523 PAGE 6

For Business For Shopping For Leisure Business Improvement District

Town Centre Focus

Join us and celebrate...

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Through The

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ANYTHING SWINDON

WWW.ANYTHINGSWINDON.CO.UK

TEL: 01793 977117

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Farsight Wills Feature

Farsight Wills Editorial May 2016 You may have noticed the impressive new offices that recently opened at 26 Commercial Road. Farsight Wills Ltd have expanded their successful Swindon head office into new premises and now offer not only a comprehensive Will writing service but probate and estate administration, Lasting Power of Attorney, Protective Property Trusts and pre-paid Funeral Plans which can be allocated to any independent funeral director.

Government figures expect the average funeral to be over £6,000 in approx. 5 years. We currently offer a pre-paid plan at £3,155 with a range of flexible interest free payment terms. This alleviates a lot of stress and expense for those left behind.” If travelling into the town centre is too much of a trek don’t worry as Farsight Wills continue to offer their free home visit service. So there really is no excuse not to get organised.

Farsight Wills can be contacted on 01793 433705 or contact them via their website at:

farsightwills.com

Owner Nigel Schofield says “We are thrilled with the move. The three floors give us a lot more space and with greater high street visibility I’m hoping people will be reminded that we all need to get our affairs in order. It can’t stay on the ‘to-do list’ forever.” Farsight Wills has been nationally successful, picking up various awards over the years and has recently expanded into Bristol and Somerset. Nigel continues “We are already seeing a lot more people through the door who are aware that they need these important legal documents, it’s not just Wills however. With such low interest rates on savings we’ve seen a huge surge in pre-paid funeral plans where you can fix costs at today’s prices.

ANYTHING SWINDON

WWW.ANYTHINGSWINDON.CO.UK

TEL: 01793 977117

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Drove Vets Feature

WANTED! Swindon’s Very Own Dog Superstars SWINDON 105.5 in conjunction with Old Town Festival & Drove Vets are looking for dogs who can sing, dance or do tricks!

Old Town Festival Dog Show Enter your Dog on-line today and save money! £2 per class, per dog for on-line bookings and £3 on the day per class, per animal. www.drovevets.vetinflow.com/ pets/registration-form/online-booking

Do you have a dog with a talent? Would you like to bring him or her to take part in this year’s Old Town Festival Dog Show – and appear on the SWINDON 105.5 stage at the Lawns on 12th June? Please send a short video of your dog performing, to marketing@drovevets. co.uk and the top 6 artists will be invited to perform ‘live’ on the SWINDON 105.5 stage at Old Town Festival Dog Show at 4pm on 12th June at The Lawns, Swindon, Wilts. The winner will be chosen on the day by a panel of judges. “The saying is, never to work with animals or children, but I love it” says Shirley Ludford who will be compering the event on the day “The unexpected is always great fun! Jane Carter of Drove Vets says “It’s a fun part of the event and who knows what could happen on the day, but sure there will be lots of laughs & fun for everyone, whether two or four legged”. This new aspect to the event adds to the popular dog show, where 10 classes are on offer this year. PAGE 10

CLASSES TO BOOK FOR: •

Class 1 - 12.30 Glamourous Girlie for female dogs

•

Class 2 – 12.50 Loveable Lad for male dogs

•

Class 3 - 13.10 Puppy Love for Pups under 6 months

•

Class 4 – 13.30 Adorable Adolescent for dogs 6 months – 2 years

•

Class 5 - 13.50 Sensational Senior for dogs over 7 years

•

Class 6 - 14.10Marvelous Mutt for dogs of mixed breed

•

Class 7 – 14.30 Best Child Handler for Children under 16 years

•

Class 8 – 14.50 Remarkable Rescue

•

Class 9 – 15.10 Fabulous Family Dog

•

Class 10 – 15.30 Happiest Hound.

Class Winners will go on to be judged for Best in Show Further information, call JANE on Swindon 522483

Drove Vets Feature “ Drove Vets proud to be sponsoring & running Old Town Festival Dog Show on 12th June 2016“ Wanted Dogs of all shapes & sizes, pedigree, cross breeds, scruffy, naughty & nice! Everyone welcome 2 legs & 4! See www.drovevets.co.uk , www.oldtownfestival.co.uk

or Facebook for more details.

The most effective products are those that contain prescription medications and are usually most cost effective in the long run. If fleas are found on your pet, prompt treatment is advised. It is essential to also wash their bedding, Hoover the house to remove eggs, and treat the house with an insecticide. Different stages of the environmental flea cycle can be resistant to some products, necessitating repeat applications in some cases.

Itchy and Scratchy? Spring is finally sprung and with the warming weather come the fleas and ticks. Fleas are more common in the spring to autumn months but with our central heating, these days we see them all year round. One flea can lay numerous eggs within a short period of time, so once fleas are found on your pet it can be challenging to eliminate them. Fleas feed on blood, be it animal or human, and some of our pets become allergic to flea saliva. They can, as a result, need treatments for the resulting skin sores and sometimes infections. Fleas can transmit the tapeworm Dipylidium the most common worm seen by owners. This can either be the adult tapeworm itself in faeces or vomit, or by the wriggling rice like segments often seen in a cats fur by the tail end. In large numbers fleas can cause anaemia, especially in the very old or young. The fleas drop eggs almost continuously; these hatch into larvae that feed on the debris within carpets beddings etc. They then form a cocoon for development, and can hibernate for prolonged periods. Hatching is often triggered by movement, and warmth, ie the passing by of pet or owner. The fleas seen on your pet are only the tip of the iceberg. Only 5% of the flea population will be seen on your animal, so the ongoing presence of active fleas on a treated pet means more often that the environmental control of the fleas has not been sufficient. Preventing fleas is far easier than treating them. There is a huge range available currently. Unfortunately there are a lot of products out there that are not very effective and can be a waste of your money and time. Some can be bought in pharmacies, but the active ingredients and efficacy can vary hugely, so we’d always recommend a tailored approach by discussing it with your vet. ANYTHING SWINDON

Rabbits are also at risk of fleas and of myxomatosis being transmitted, a fatal disease found countrywide, which can be vaccinated against. It is very common in our wild rabbits. The other creepy crawly at this time of year is the tick. And anyone who walks pasture land, woodland etc where sheep or deer graze will likely have met these. Removal with a tick hook by following the instructions or booking in with your vet or nurse if in doubt is highly advised. If the mouth parts are left within the skin an abscess may form. Ticks are blood feeders and so can transmit lymes disease and babesiosis. (Babesiosis is mainly seen abroad, but recent news has highlighted the infection with the U.K.) Lymes disease is a zoonosis so humans can also catch this from ticks. Ticks can also transmit tapeworm. Treatment of ticks can be headed under repellents ie collars, spot-ons, or tablets. Each have pros and cons, so ideally it is best to discuss with your vet for your pets requirements.

For more information please see our website www.drovevets.co.uk Or our Facebook page for more details.

24 HR EMERGENCY SERVICE TELEPHONE:

(01793) 522483 www.drovevets.co.uk

WWW.ANYTHINGSWINDON.CO.UK

TEL: 01793 977117

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Jensons Feature

DIGEL LAUNCH DAY On May 16th myself and Ian were invited to the launch of a brand new range at Jensons of Gorse Hill. Digel is an international fashion label and is exclusive to Swindon as Pete and his team look to further expand their range and offer a fresh new style of suit perfect for all ages and size. Having both tried on a suit whilst attending this very popular launch event, myself and Ian were pleasantly surprised at the quality vs the price and both came away with a brand new suit at a fantastic price. Digel’s target group is individualists with a sense of quality for whom confidence of style and affordable contemporary clothing for every occasion are essential. We would recommend a visit and would love to receive your feedback.

WHY DIGEL? QUALITY O ur products offer high quality and maximum wearing comfort at a reasonable price. FUNCTIONALITYWhether it’s protection and additional functions or innovative materials – we are always one step ahead. Our criteria are determined by our customers and we tailor our products to suit their needs. CONFIDENCE OF STYLEWe offer a variety of products and guarantee that our customers are impeccably dressed at all times for every occasion. MODERNITYWe have a keen sense for the latest trends and are creative in our designs. We add fashionable touches and are globally recognised. The Digel collections are offered in more than 40 countries worldwide. Digel customers can buy the products in more than 3000 shops.

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SNDOGS May Update

Up and Coming SNDog Events: SATURDAY 30TH APRIL HIGHWORTH MAY DAY 11AM – 4PM

Registered Charity No. 1163257 SNDogs (Saving Needy Dogs)

SATURDAY 7TH MAY STREET COLLECTION IN WOOTTON BASSETT 10AM – 2PM

The SNDogs Events Team have been busy over the past couple of months with street collections in Freshbrook, Highworth and Marlborough, plus a stall at the Family Fun Day at Wotton Bassett Rugby Club and Chippenham Fun Day plus an indoor Car Boot sale. We hope to see lots of you at the Highworth May Day Event on 30th April!

SATURDAY 14TH MAY WANBOROUGH DOG SHOW (SNDOGS ARE SPONSORING ‘BEST RESCUE CLASS)

A big ‘thank you’ must go to the Wyvern Theatre, Swindon, who kindly donated 2 pairs of tickets to the ‘Mission Impudseyble performances which took place at the end of March. The Wyvern held bucket collections at the end of each performance and we even had our picture taken with Ashleigh and Pudsey!

SUNDAY 19TH JUNE CRICKLADE FESTIVAL

Come and join our Events Team!

SUNDAY 5TH JUNE FAMILY FUN DAY AT SWINDON RUGBY CLUB

PLEASE VISIT WWW.SNDOGS.UK FOR THE FULL LIST OF EVENTS

DOG OF THE MONTH

Now that the days are longer (and warmer) we will be out and about at many events in Swindon and the local area - we always need people who can help out at our various fund-raising events, such as street collections, supermarket bag packing, stalls and dog shows at Events - some of these often need a full days’ commitment or a few hours.

CAN YOU GIVE ALFIE A HOME?

Why volunteer with SNDogs? In her own words, Darlene one of our seasoned volunteers says …… ‘I read an article in the Swindon Advertiser and knew I wanted to volunteer to help SNDogs. I find it rewarding especially when our dogs are given that extra love and care before finding a forever home. I wanted to meet like minded people to help raise much needed funds through events street collections and auctions all for a worthy cause.’

Afie is an 8 year old, calm, neutered male Staffie, good with cats and dogs. Nice to walk on the lead and loves walks! Alfie is up for adoption due to his owners poor health, she didn’t want to give him up but knows it wasn’t fair on him (his owner struggled with walking). He is an endearing, loveable dog, who is a bit of a chamer. How can you not resist his smile. He is good with other dogs bigger and smaller than himself. Could you be Alfie’s new owner?

If you can give Alfie a home please email sndrescue@gmail.com We need dogs at most of our events so we also need people can who transport the dogs from the foster homes to the events, spend the day with the dog at the stall and walk them around, talking to potential new owners and raising awareness of SNDogs and then take them back to the foster family at the end of the day. Please email sndogrescue@gmail.com or visit sndogs.uk for more info. ANYTHING SWINDON

SNDogs relies entirely on donations - there are many ways you can help SNDogs. Donate via Paypal – swindonsneedydogs@ gmail.com or bank transfer to (Co-op) Swindons Needy Dogs Account No. 65622481 sort code 089299. We also have an Amazon Wish List – search for Saving Needy Dogs. Visit our website for more info... www.sndogs.uk

WWW.ANYTHINGSWINDON.CO.UK

TEL: 01793 977117

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Book now and be entered into a prize draw to WIN 2 NIGHTS FREE! Use the code ASM669 T: 01249 810943 | E: enquiries@blacklandlakes.co.uk Blackland Lakes, Stockley Lane, Calne, Wiltshire, United Kingdom, SN11 0NQ

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Slimming World Feature The Club with the big heart, re-launches in the heart of the Town. Popular weight loss organisation, Slimming World have re-launcheda group to the people of Swindon on Wednesdays at 5.30pm at the Central Community Centre, Emlyn Square. The centre, which is owned by the Mechanics Institution Trust, provides the perfect location for those living and working around Swindon’s Town centre who are looking to change their lifestyle through healthy eating and becoming more active. “Our eating plan is like no other out there” says Louise Robins. “We focus on the filling power of what we call Free Foods, foods that will naturally reduce the appetite, keep you feeling fuller for longer and slim you down all without having to worry about weighing, measuring or counting”.

Slimming World recently announced they are partners in Public Health England’s new One You campaign, which aims to support adults to make simple changes towards a healthier and happier life, and provide the tools, motivational support and encouragement every step of the way. “We understand that for lifestyle changes to be maintained for life, support is required, and that is exactly what our members can expect in our groups through our unique IMAGE Therapy sessions. We inspire, motivate and support every member all the way to target and then support them to maintain that target for life. For me, as a member, the magic of IMAGE Therapy combined with Food Optimising, which still allowed me to enjoy favourites such a spaghetti bolognaise and even a glass of wine, is what has helped me achieve what I have and I will always be grateful. I now hope to inspire others”. Louise, who has been a Consultant with the organisation for four years, also runs three session on a Saturday mornings at Freshbrook Community Centre at 8am, 10am and 12pm.

Before

After

Louise, who has lost 3 stones following Slimming World’s Food Optimising plan hope to inspire others as she opens the doors to the new group in Swindon’s historical Railway Village. “When we look at opening groups, our first thought is how we can support the local community. We always aim to hold our groups in venues, where rents go towards improving and supporting the community in which we are located which is why being in the Railway Village is so important to us”, explains Louise.

“The demand for our groups is still increasing which is incredible. It is brilliant that people are finding us. Our current groups are growing and therefore adding extra sessions, but we still need members, past, present and future, to join our amazing team”. Anyone looking to join the Town centre group are invited to attend any Wednesday evening at 5.30pm, for further details contact Louise on 07784 098022. For further information on any of the Swindon groups, visit www.slimmingworld.co.uk. Anyone looking to find out more about joining the Slimming World team should e mail slimmingworldlou@gmail.com.

live happy! with

Slimming World

Start your journey Wednesday’s 5.30pm Central Community Centre Emlyn Square Swindon Town Centre

Contact Lou for more details: 07784 098022 visit the website to read Sara’ s story

slimmingworld.co.uk 0344 897 8000

Estelle School of Dance ESTELLE SCHOOL OF DANCE The above school will be presenting the musical ‘Peter Pan’ written by Piers Chater-Robinson with kind permission of Samuel French Ltd. at the Wyvern Theatre from 23rd - 25th June including a matinee.. Pat Bennett the schools Principal says out of all their shows (Wizard of Oz Pinocchio Aice in Wonderland to name a few) Peter Pan is the most expensive to produce. partly due to the flying, the set and very costly transport. They did the show 8 years ago when Peter, Abigail Daniels played the little boy Michael. Megan Burchell , a mermaid and pirate last time takes on the role of Wendy. Several other characters will be played by the same people as last time. The part of Tinker Bell goes to Alexandra Bamford, Pat’s granddaughter, who follows in the footsteps of former pupil Alice Baker who we are proud to say will perform in the world premiere of the musical comedy ‘Devilish at the Landor Theatre, London in May. Pat’s daughter, Jennifer Bamford, will be Musical Director again and Stage Director will be Mark Cooper whose wife and children are all taking part. Any profit will go to Great Ormand Sttreet Hospital including the royalties from J.B. Barries Book. Two years ago with their show Hans Andersen the school raised £5,000 for Wiltshire Air Ambulance.

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ANYTHING SWINDON

WWW.ANYTHINGSWINDON.CO.UK

TEL: 01793 977117

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Book now at www.extreme.better.org.uk Find us at Link Centre, Swindon, SN5 7DL

Bring this voucher into our Better Extreme Reception to claim your free socks (usually £2). You must enter your email address and postcode to redeem these. Email address: Postcode:

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TEL:01793 977117

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The year “off” of the Gav It does have some lovely areas and once you dodge your way out of the crowds, that all seem to be going the opposite way, these are a welcome distraction. The food is good but comes in massive portions, the opening hours extensive and the confidence and passion that everyone exudes is commendable.

May Update! Well, I finally got here, New York City and it doesn’t disappoint. I didn’t think it would. I have been here previously and covered all the touristy places. This time around I am living in Astoria, a 20 minute subway ride into Midtown Manhattan.

Having spent more time here than one regularly would on a holiday, I have found that the ‘Have a nice day’ line, used by servers in bars and other customer focused work, to be actually heartfelt and honest as opposed to the cynical, uninterested regurgitating of similar lines in U.Ks equivalent roles. I find it easier to talk to people in New York and everyone, thus far, has wanted to and been willing to chat back. I am not foolish enough to assume that New York is perfect, it isn’t. In fact, I think that the opportunity succeed in the entire country is massive, however the fall can be equally dramatic. Poverty in New York is as clear and obvious as the bright city lights. I came to America to seek out a new beginning and I think I have found one, but ironically in another country........

Once you get use to the slight differences and colloquialisms it’s really much the same as living anywhere else, except for the hustle. New York is all about the hustle. Everyone vying to be the next big, the next best or the biggest best ever. It’s a hundred miles an hour, every hour and it makes no apologies for it. But then you don’t come to the city that never sleeps for forty winks.

To keep an eye on my travels visit the following: Instagram: gavellisiow Twitter @GavEllis_IOW blog: gavellis2016.blogspot.com

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ANYTHING SWINDON

WWW.ANYTHINGSWINDON.CO.UK

TEL: 01793 977117

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Councillor Updates Walcot & Park North Councillors- Emma Bushell, Steve Allsopp & Abdul Amin Libraries: The Council has recently finished consulting on plans to make £1.5m of cuts to the Library service. Cllr Steve Allsopp attended the consultation meetings at Walcot and Parks libraries where residents expressed concerns at the threat to their local libraries. Coate Water: The Council has just finished consulting on plans to introduce car-parking fees at Coate Water. Councillors fear for the future of Coate Water if Lydiard is handed over to the private sector. They have been active in the campaign to keep Lydiard in public ownership and will be keeping a close eye on Coate Water. Roads / Parking: Councillors have been receiving an increased volume of complaints about the state of our roads and the number of potholes that are appearing. We continue to meet regularly with Council officers in an attempt to resolve the parking issues in Walcot West raised by residents. Community Governance Review – Plans to Parish Walcot and Park North: The Council has now concluded its Community Governance Review - a consultation exercise on plans to create parishes – or mini-councils - in parts of Swindon including Walcot and Parks, and to devolve responsibility for basic services like litter picking to them. Councillors held meetings in Park North, Walcot East and Walcot West to discuss proposals with residents. Most residents raised concerns that Parish proposals would be inefficient, undemocratic and would lead to bigger tax bills for a reduced level of service Litter: We have also received a higher than usual number of complaints about the amount of litter across the area, much of it recycling. We have asked if the recycling bin designs could be examined to see if they could withstand the stronger winds we now more regularly experience.

Councillor Nadine Watts – Old Town & East Wichel. nadine.watts@live.co.uk - 07595 071381 Parishing: Parishing is a way of raising Council-Tax by £120 per household over three years. New parishes would be responsible for delivering streetsmart services like street cleaning and pothole repairs. I share people’s concerns regarding the loss of economy of scale, paying twice for services with no rebate and also that no options other than parishing are currently being considered. There is public support for a referendum. Hesketh Crescent Play Area: work has now been completed. It is fantastic to have yet another great play area in Old Town. 25 Croft Road: Planning permission has now been granted for use by Gurkha veterans upon the completion of a planning obligation to ensure tenants of the property do not own or use cars. East Wichel Bus Lane: A trial has taken place with an enforcement camera at the bus gate onto Croft Road. Depending on the results, the camera may be permanent.

Anything Swindon is completely un-biased and we welcome comments from all parties. All parties, please send your views to us at info@anythingswindon.co.uk To reach us no later than the 15th of the month. PAGE 24

Movie News

Win four tickets to a Film of your choice! To win the tickets, Please tell us who is often seen as a cameo in the Marvel super hero films?

A: Stan Lee B: Bruce Lee or C: Spike Lee Please email win@anythingswindon.co.uk with your answer and your postcode by the last day of the month

“Congratulations to Lynn David who won the April competition! Empire Cinema will be in touch” ANYTHING SWINDON

WWW.ANYTHINGSWINDON.CO.UK

TEL: 01793 977117

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VSF Promotion

feature

PAGE 26

Anything Swindon Discount ANY8

V.S.F Ltd. When it comes to getting the most out of a garage, then come to the ONLY NATIONAL firm that specialises in their refurbishment and conversion.

At V.S.F. Ltd we have been helping people turn their old, impractical garages into modern and useful spaces for the last decade. Our experts can take on pretty much any project, from refurbishing your rundown concrete garage ensuring you have a secure storage space for years to come, to erecting a completely new one for you, or transforming your garage into an up-to-date and ultra-functional utility room. It doesn’t matter how old your garage is or what condition it is in, V.S.F will give it a new lease of life or totally transform it to add value to your home. Whether it’s just a replacement roof that is needed or a full refurbishment, V.S.F. will take care of every aspect, from the technical survey through to the installation. You don’t even need to empty your garage we will empty it for you if necessary, do the job and then leave everything spotless when we have gone. You won’t even know we have been there, apart from the wonderful space that we leave behind. V.S.F. can reduce or extend your garage, block up doors with panels, take out panels and add new doors. We can reduce or increase garage door sizes, install new windows or change your roof from flat to apex. The options for your garage are virtually endless - and we will work with you at every stage to ensure you get just what you want. Marcus Jeffreys, strategic consultant for the company, said: “We are absolutely committed to ensuring that from your initial contact to completing your installation,

whether it be a refurbishment or a replacement garage, every aspect of your installation is managed correctly, ensuring that the installation and completion dates are met. “In present times, when the building industry has a reputation for not fulfilling deadlines and shoddy workmanship, we take pride in offering you a pleasant buying experience. This means providing quality products installed by trained personnel and on the date promised. “We are also proud to be able to provide quality products at a fair market price. We are always continuing to improve our products and negotiate the best prices so that we can offer our customers value for money.” Safety, too, is paramount for us. With so many garages of the age and type that we work on containing potentially hazardous asbestos, our experience is all the more important. All our operatives are certified asbestos removers meaning that they can remove the asbestos safely and legally from your garage and also hold valid waste carriers licences to allow legal transportation of your asbestos to our depot. And on top of all this, we offer a free, no-obligation consultation. So, for the best storage, utility or living space you can get, contact V.S.F. For more details, visit our website at www. vsfgaragerepairsuk.com or give us a call on 0800 917 9550.

feature ANYTHING SWINDON

WWW.ANYTHINGSWINDON.CO.UK

TEL: 01793 977117

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ANYTHING SWINDON

WWW.ANYTHINGSWINDON.CO.UK

TEL: 01793 977117

PAGE 29

Pearce Funeral Services 1 Groundwell Rd, Swindon, SN1 2LT 01793 422422

"The closest Funeral Director to the Register"

 Professionally Qualified  A Truly Personal & Compassionate Service For You And Your Loved One

 Pre Payment Funeral Plans Available  Included in The Good Funeral Guide since 2011, In Recognition Of Our Quality Of Service

'John (centre), Tracy and David - Here for you when needed most'

 Home Visits Available

Chapel of Rest: 92 Ermin Street, Stratton St Margaret, SN3 4NN – 01793 832072

www.pearcefuneralservices.co.uk

Churchfields Academy Logo

Churchfields AcademyPearce Every Classroom, Every Lesson, Every Student

Funeral Services

92 Ermin Street, Stratton St Margaret, Swindon, SN3 4NN

Visit Us

01793 832072

Professionally Qualified A Truly Personal & Compassionate Service Come and see why Ofsted Graded us as For You And Your Loved One Good in 2013 Pre Payment Funeral Plans Available Good Funeral Guide since 2011, ToursIncluded can be setinupThe at any time for students wishing to In transfer from Primary or another Recognition Of Our Quality Of Service

Secondary

'John (centre), Tracy and David - Here for you when needed most'

Based in Stratton St Margaret, for your extra convenience we also have offices at 1 Groundwell Road, 300 yards from the Registrar’s Office, an easy place to call into after registration. We are available 24 hours a day, every day of the year. 01793 92 Ermin Street,487286 Stratton St Margaret, SN3 4NN – 01793 832072 or 1 Groundwell Road, Swindon, SN1 2LT – 01793 422422.

Call

www.churchfields.org

www.pearcefuneralservices.co.uk PAGE 30

For an up to date list of all vacancies with Salary information and Job Descriptions please email indicating which area you would be interested in.

Fern.chapman@bourne-leisure.co.uk Or call us on 01488 682509 ANYTHING SWINDON

WWW.ANYTHINGSWINDON.CO.UK

TEL:01793 977117

PAGE 31

Childrens Summer Dance School Monday 22nd, Tuesday 23rd & Wednesday 24th August | 10am – 3pm

Photo: Rachel Cherry

A three day, fun and lively summer school for boys and girls aged 6 – 10 years. Three days of Salsa, Samba, Carnival, Capoeira (Brazilian Martial Arts) with a Sports Twist! No dance experience needed. Price: £22 per day OR book for all 3 days £55 (book by 30th June) Early / Late Drop-Offs available 9am – 4pm £4 per hour Book on-line at www.swindondance.org.uk / 01793 601700

SWINDON DANCE Regent Circus, Swindon, SN1 1QF. Tel 01793 601700 SWINDON DANCE IS A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE REGISTERED IN ENGLAND & WALES NO. 5467343 REGISTERED CHARITY NO. 1111476

Tree, Garden Services & Landscape Maintenance Call Peter on:

01793 238114 07818 477447

Before

After

All kinds of Garden Work Trees Pruned, Topped & Felled Over Fencing, Turfing & Grass Cutting 25eYreieanrcse Path’s & Patio’s Laid Exp Hedges Trimmed All types of Rubbish removed Family Run Business Full Liability Insurance

P.W Tree & Garden Services pwtreeandgarden@yahoo.com PAGE 32

Before

After

Ask AMS

Advice for small businesses AMS Accountancy Ltd. 01793 818400

My business partner spent the profits from our business – am I now responsible for the debts? If your business is a Partnership, not a Limited Company or a Limited Liability Partnership (LLP), all partners are “jointly and severally liable” for the Partnership debts. If there are no Partnership funds for the bills, creditors can chase you personally for the money – even though your partner took it out of the business. In a Limited Company or a Limited Liability Partnership, you would not be liable for these debts. Here, the monies and assets would be owned by the business itself. Exceptions: loans with a personal guarantee and trading while insolvent or fraudulently. www.ask-ams.co.uk @AMSAccountancy www.ams-accountancy.co.uk ANYTHING SWINDON

WWW.ANYTHINGSWINDON.CO.UK

TEL:01793 977117

PAGE 33

EtaEtion FoR l nsu C

Home Design, Architecture, Planning, Drawings, Building Regulations, 3D Visuals, Marketing + more... single storey Ben Williams 01793 920265

ben@benwill.co.uk

extension designed from

£249

Paint something beautiful at our

Art Club Every Thursday 1-3pm £2 per session - all materials provided including refreshments Newcomers of all abilities welcome Contact Don Elliott (Freeman) 17–19 Devizes Road Old Town 01793 886223 don.elliot@hotmail.co.uk www.swec.org.uk

PAGE 34

Town Eyecare Your Local IndependentOld Optician 102 Victoria Road

At Old Town Eyecare we take pride in offering a personal service. We have over 1000 frames to choose from including designer brands such as Hugo Boss and Ted Baker. If you’re interested in contact lenses you can book in for a FREE trial.

Old Town Swindon SN1 3BD

T: 01793 511327 F: 01793 512084 E: info@oteyecare.com W: www.oteyecare.com

Call us today or visit our website for more information.

01793 511327 www.oteyecare.com Charity No:1129912

10 2 V I C TO R I A R OA D, SW I N D O N , S N1 3 B D Fi nd u s opp os ite the Post Of f i ce

44 Commercial Road, Swindon SN1 5NX

08000 88 60 90 consol.eu

BA'RNES

MAY HALF TERM DAY TRIPS!

50 YEAR ANNIVERSARY

Longleat

29/05/16 Includes Safari & all other attractions. Adult Ticket: £45 Child Ticket: £33

London (Kensington or Park Lane)

01/06/16 Adult Ticket: £22 Child Ticket: £14

Spitfire Hanger Tour

Biggin Hill Heritage Hanger 31/05/16 Adult Ticket: £67 Child Ticket: £57

Guided Tour of Albert Hall & local area

01/06/16 Adult Ticket: £64 Child Ticket: £55

Donkey Sanctuary & Sidmouth

31/05/16 Adult Ticket: £25 Child Ticket: £14

Thorpe Park

01/06/16 Adult Ticket: £47 Child Ticket: £42

LEGOLA�D

\.JINP.SOR

Bath & West Show

01/06/16 Adult Ticket: £42 Child Ticket: £14

Legoland Windsor

02/06/16 Adult Ticket: £49 Child Ticket: £44 ' !

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Jir.1J�

·�� Windsor & Eton 02/06/16 Adult Ticket: £18 Child Ticket: £14

London Zoo

03/06/16 Adult Ticket: £43 Child Ticket: £29

The View From The Shard

04/06/16 Adult Ticket: £49 Child Ticket: £39

01793 821303 www.barnescoaches.co.uk Unit E, Woodside Road, � • South Marston Park, Swindon, SN3 4AQ Contact the Barnes Coaches team to find out more information regarding upcoming events and travel costs or alternatively visit our website to view our online 2016 Brochure.

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The Tower of London

05/06/16 Adult Ticket: £42 Child Ticket: £24

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