South East Swindon Link September 2022

No 71 September 2022 GPS-tracked, door to door delivery to over 42,000 homes across Swindon with Est. overall readership of 105,000

Swindon

LINK Your Community Magazine

South & East Edition

School Open Day Guide p15-17

swindonlink.com

Celebrating 200 years of Coate Water p19

SE September Master pages.indd 1

19/08/2022 12:51

SE September Master pages.indd 2

19/08/2022 12:51

Swindon dance school raises £5,000 for GWH radiotherapy unit

By Jessica Durston jessica@positive-media.co.uk The Estelle School of Dance have raised funds for GWH's radiotherapy unit with their production of 'The Slipper and the Rose.'

The dance troupe presented the cheque for £5,000 to staff at the radiotherapy unit during its open day.

The Estelle School of Dance is a small dance school in Swindon run by Pat Bennett.

Pat opened the school on her 20th birthday, back in 1958, and has run it by herself ever since. Every two years the school perform a show at the Wyvern Theatre in aid of a chosen charity.

After the show in 2016, fundraising started for the 2018 production, which would coincide with the school's 60th Anniversary.

Pat decided she wanted to produce musical 'The Slipper and the Rose'.

Being a predominantly

female dance school, the search was on for a Prince Charming so their Cinderella could go to the ball.

A perfect Prince was found in Jacob Taylor, and rehearsals started. The Wyvern was booked, and everything was set. Then, a month before opening night, Pat Bennett was rushed into hospital with a twisted bowel and had to undergo major surgery.

It was hoped that the show still might go ahead, but with Pat playing the evil stepmother, her daughter Jen Bamford being the musical director, and her granddaughter Alex Bamford, as Cinderella, it was felt it would be impossible to carry on.

The show was postponed, resulting in quite heavy financial losses.

Pat recovered and a new date for the show was booked for March 2019. However, the school had lost its Prince who had gone back to Yorkshire, along with a few of the older

The Estelle School of Dance team with the cheque outside GWH's radiotherapy unit

dancers who were at university.

The dance school say they were fortunate to find David Higgins to play Charming, and the show ended up being a success.

Patricia Daniels is the mother of a dancer at The Estelle School of Dance. She said of the fundraising event: "Cinderella eventually did go to the ball, and with ticket sales and with some avid fundraising, even with the losses incurred, we raised an incredible £,5000.

"My own daughter has been dancing with The Estelle School of Dance since the age of two.

She has played many of the

main parts such as Peter Pan and Pinocchio, and was meant to have been in this production.

"She wasn't able to as she'd returned to university, and was sadly diagnosed in 2020 with an osteosarcoma and had to undergo many xrays, scans, chemotherapy and surgery, all in Oxford.

"This unit would have been a godsend for my daughter, but it will hopefully help others in a similar situation and allow them to be treated in Swindon. We are very proud to be able to present this fabulous amount to such a worthy and deserving charity and contribute to the buying of the scanners."

With sky-rocketing energy costs we all need to look out for each other

By Jamie Hill Jamie@positive-media.co.uk We seem to be living in a bizarro world at the moment where you have to take out a small mortgage if you want to drive 10 miles down the road or even to heat your house.

So what can we do?

Swindon Council has released

Group Editor and Owner: Jamie Hill Deputy Editor: Barrie Hudson Reporter: Jessica Durston Sales: Dave Stewart and Rosy Presley Accounts Manager: Karen Randall Contributors: Tyler Ody, Becky Cox, Maurice Spillane and Alfie Howlett

some Cost of Living Tips for you to take a look at on page 12. All of them are really useful.

But one of the main things we need to do, just like we did in covid times, is to look out for one another.

People are going to be suffering out there, especially the most vulnerable who might not be able to afford to put on

ADVERTISING Call 01793 644540 or email: advertising@swindonlink.com Closing date for October adverts and editorial: 9 September October edition published: 24 September Our Statistics Est. Readership of 105,000 in print & c.50,000 monthly online visitors.

Swindon’s largest free publication.

Advertising starts from just £49.

Positive Media Group Limited, Suite J, Fairview House, 43 Bath Road, Swindon SN1 4AS

T: 01793 644540 Email: publisher@swindonlink.com

the heating at all this winter.

The rising prices will be plunging lots of us into poverty and businesses are suffering as well (and that isn't a dig at printers to stop raising their prices exorbitantly every three months like they are doing right now... honest.)

This cost of living crisis is affecting us all but some will be more affected than others

and we need to be aware of that. So Swindon, do what you do best and keep an eye on each other as together we can get through this.

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.

Positive Media Group Limited cannot be held responsible for goods or services or the copyright of content supplied by our advertisers.

Reg. in England & Wales. No: 4513027, at Suite J, Fairview House, 43 Bath Road, Swindon SN1 4AS Printed by Acorn Web Offset Limited, Normanton

Hear Link Magazine highlights on air, the last Wednesday of each month and as a podcast on www.swindon1055.com

Got a community story or feature? Contact newsdesk at publisher@swindonlink.com or 01793 644540 swindonlink.com n September 2022

SE September Master pages.indd 3

3

19/08/2022 12:51

The Eco Briefing

Swindon steps up a gear to Be The Change People and organisations across Swindon are taking action on climate change, and Swindon Borough Council is playing its part too. In July last year, the council agreed an initial set of actions to help achieve net zero by 2030 – which means balancing the amount of greenhouse gas emissions generated by its operations with the amount removed from the atmosphere.

The council is also taking action to support Swindon to reach net zero by 2050, in line with the Government’s UK-wide target.

Using solar power at Waterside The council’s operations depot and recycling centre at Waterside Park is already partially powered by renewable energy from a nearby solar park at Barnfield,

4

which is built on a former landfill site.

But now a 500kW/832kWh lithium-ion battery has been added onsite at Waterside Park to store electricity so it can be used whenever it’s needed, not just in real-time when it’s generated.

The battery will also help power 16 electric vehicle (EV) charging points installed at Waterside earlier this year, to power the council’s existing 27 electric vans and those that follow.

Meanwhile, plans are underway to install a standalone 12 MW/24 MWh battery energy storage system on brownfield land near Waterside, directly connected to the national grid at Brindley Close. This could potentially store enough energy to help power 3,000 homes.

Creating new woodlands in Swindon Trees play a vital role in our ecosystem – storing carbon, stabilising soil, providing habitats for wildlife and supporting life on our planet.

So it was great news that the Government announced last month that Swindon has been awarded £1.1m to plant new trees and create new woodlands.

As part of managing and protecting trees over the coming years, the council will use this funding to purchase

and plant new trees and create new woodland paths.

This is the third year the council has received funding from the Government’s Nature for Climate Fund, with 37,000 trees already planted across 15 locations. The tree planting season runs between November and March, and the council is currently developing planting plans for this period.

For tools, tips and advice on how you can play your part to address the climate emergency visit: www.swindon.gov.uk/ BetheChange

swindonlink.com n September 2022

SE September Master pages.indd 4

19/08/2022 12:51

SE September Master pages.indd 5

19/08/2022 12:51

Message of love and hope after escaping horror

By Barrie Hudson barrie@positive-media.co.uk

A Ukrainian mother forced to leave her wartorn homeland with her son has settled in Swindon - and begun working as a baker.

Victoria Bratchuk specialises in gingerbread cookies whose intricate designs are created with the help of a special printer she managed to bring with her.

She can put any picture on her cookies, but a particular favourite with her customers at Wroughton Country Market is a heart-shaped treat incorporating the flags of Ukraine and the UK. The country market is held on Friday mornings at the Ellendune Hall.

"I'm trying to start my business with the cookies," she said.

"It was my business in Ukraine.

I brought my printer with me to make the pictutres."

Victoria and her son, Denys

6

Victoria Bratchuk with a cookie incorporating the UK and Ukraine flags

Sova, were forced to leave Ukraine in the spring of this year, leaving Denys' doctor father to do essential work.

Having secured refugee visas, the mother and son left their homeland and arrived in Swindon in early April.

They settled into an apartment in Park South, owned by their host, Elly.

Denys had started a Computer Science degree in September of last year.

Because of covid, his first

months of study were done from his home - but then the Russian tanks rolled into his country.

On arriving in Swindon he was able to continue studying from his new home, but feared that his ambition of obtaining a degree would not be achieved.

Mother and son then heard of the work of the Swindon Humanitarian Aid Partnership, which helped with many phone calls to British universities and an application to admissions

organisation UCAS. A chance meeting between partnership chair Mike Bowden and a recent graduate, Eva Lovejoy, led to a short series of English lessons to help Denys, already an English speaker, meet the language requirement.

In September Denys will resume his studies, having been accepted by the University of York.

Swindon Humanitarian Aid Partnership is a volunteer organisation which, in addition to helping Ukrainian people reaching the Swindon area, has gathered and transported well over 500 tonnes of vital aid to Ukraine.

Mr Bowden said: "Swindon may not be the most beautiful town in the country, but when the chips are down, when things need to be done and people need support, the people of Swindon always, always step forward."

swindonlink.com n September 2022

SE September Master pages.indd 6

19/08/2022 12:51

SE September Master pages.indd 7

19/08/2022 12:51

Prizes for gardeners beautifying South Swindon

By Barrie Hudson barrie@positive-media.co.uk South Swindon Parish Council has announced the winners of its front garden competition.

Parish councillors presented the green-fingered victors with their awards at a prizegiving ceremony.

The six winners are Gail Collins, Hilary Woodward, Roy and Belinda Partington, Simon Horner, Rhiannon Morris and Nenita Austin. The winners were thrilled with their prize money and the custom-made plaques made by South Swindon Parish Councillor Vince Ayris.

Images of their gardens have been released for all to enjoy.

The concept behind the competition was to encourage residents to use the front of their properties to brighten up their neighbourhoods. The Midcounties Co-op donated £250 towards the project for prizes.

Cllr Linda Kasmaty, chair of the parish council’s Environment Working Party said: “We were really pleased with the standard of entries in our first front garden competition.

8

The ceremony was held at the Old Town branch of prize donors Midcounties Cooperative Society

Front gardens make such a difference to a street and so we’re hoping this idea catches on and we have more people considering how they could ‘green up’ the front of their properties.

"Please get in touch if this

is something you are thinking about, and we can have ‘before’ and ‘after’ photos.”

Cllr Dave Griffiths, chair of the parish council’s Youth Working Party, said: “It was great to give out some prizes to the winners of the parish

council's Best Front Garden Competition, and a big thank you to Midcounties Cooperative Society for donating the prizes.”

Some of the winning displays are pictured below.

swindonlink.com n September 2022

SE September Master pages.indd 8

19/08/2022 12:51

SE September Master pages.indd 9

19/08/2022 12:51

New North Swindon choir welcomes all who just love singing

People who love to sing and always wondered what being in a choir is like have a chance to find out.

The new no-audition North Swindon Good Afternoon Choir holds its first meeting on Thursday, 8 September from 1pm to 3pm at St John’s Haydon Wick.

A warm welcome is promised to anybody who goes along to find out more.

Further information can be found at www. goodafternoonchoir.org

New community garden project

Garden project GAP Swindon is bringing volunteers together to grow, tend, and share produce with the community.

It is based on land behind housing in Carstairs Avenue, in Park South, on an abandoned allotment site. It can be accessed through a gap between houses opposite Lawton Close, SN3 2DE. Further information can be obtained by calling 01793 529938 emailing thegapswindon@yahoo.com or searching for 'THE GAP SWINDON' on Facebook.

Swindon parking permits go digital

Swindon Borough Council has introduced digital parking permits for residents.

If people apply for a new permit, they will not receive a paper permit and will not need to display a physical permit in their vehicles.

Once a resident has applied, their digital permit details will be visible to the council's Civil Enforcement Officers via their handheld devices.

People looking to renew a paper parking permit will now need to register a digital permit instead.

Further details of the changes can be found at ow.ly/5zpi50KeGbe

10

Fleming Way soon to close for two-year upgrade

By Barrie Hudson barrie@positive-media.co.uk

Swindon Borough Council has announced the closure of Fleming Way for a twoyear upgrading project from Sunday, 4 September.

When the project is complete, a new bus interchange will be in place, replacing the ageing bus station, while new cycle and pedestrian routes will make the centre of Swindon easier to access and move around.

As part of the work, the current Fleming Way underpass will be removed and trees and bee-friendly plants will be added to create a welcoming route from the railway station into the town centre.

The £33m scheme was given the green light by the Government after a business case was submitted for the majority of the funding, as it will act as a catalyst for further investment in the surrounding

An artist's impression of the completed Fleming Way project

area and wider town centre.

The Fleming Way upgrade was one of the reasons why Zurich opted to build its new offices nearby, and the council says the upgrade will also play an important role in bringing forward investment in the adjacent 20-acre Kimmerfields brownfield site, paving the way for new homes, offices and a new theatre and cultural facilities.

Residents can stay up to date on the Fleming Way improvements by signing up

to the dedicated newsletter at www.swindon.gov.uk/ newsletter. To find out more about the projects to rejuvenate Swindon town centre, visit www.swindon.gov. uk/towncentreregeneration During the closure of Fleming Way, all buses will use different bus stops. Bus passengers can find the locations of the temporary stops by visiting Swindon’s Bus Company’s website: www. swindonbus.co.uk/town-centrebus-stops-are-moving

Major rebranding for Swindon town centre inSwindon BID have announced a rebranding for the town centre to give the BID area its own refreshed visual identity.

The aim of the initiative by the Local Business Improvement District (BID) company is to modernise the look and feel of the destination. inSwindon BID says it wants to get people thinking differently about the town centre and all it has to offer.

The rebrand will include a new name - Town Centre inSwindon - along with a new logo and a high-tech website giving a more cohesive approach as well as enhancing the customer experience. inSwindon BID Director Anita Bellinger said: “The new branding has several different audiences to consider, from our local community, to businesses and tourism.

"We hope it will be an integral part of the exciting new chapter for the town centre in Swindon, which is just starting

to reveal itself as being home to many remarkable makers, designers, artisans and pioneers, displaying iconic art murals, outdoor theatre performances and interactive trails, accessible to all.

"With support from the community and welcomed visitors all our independent and national businesses, and dedicated services, will have a platform for their business models to shine from and a

town centre brand to be proud to use.”

At the time of writing, stage one of the new website - www. swindontowncentre.co.uk - had been launched, with stage two due to follow shortly.

Once it is complete, users will receive a bespoke shopping experience with a filtering system for businesses and services, up to date news and offers and events tailored to the customer’s needs.

swindonlink.com n September 2022

SE September Master pages.indd 10

19/08/2022 12:51

George Kirkham and his battleships swindonlink.com n September 2022

SE September Master pages.indd 11

11

19/08/2022 12:51

Royal Wootton Bassett Rotary Club to hold car boot sale The RWB & District Rotary Club are inviting the public to attend a car boot sale to buy or sell at this September.

Sunday 4 September will see the club hold the event at Lower Hook Farm (SN4 8EF) in Hook, Royal Wootton Bassett.

The sale will open to sellers at noon, and to buyers at 1pm.

For buyers, car entry costs £2 and pedestrians will pay £1.

For sellers, car and small van entry will cost £6, large vans £10, and for trailers an added £2.

More information can be found by emailing carBoot@ rwbRotary.club or calling 07710 082085.

Local housebuilder thanked for sponsorship of Wroughton Carnival Bellway South West have been thanked for their donation towards the Wroughton Carnival event which happened in July.

The business donated £500 to the Wroughton Carnival Committee for this year's event. The group have voiced gratitude to the housebuilder, who are building a range of three and four bedroom homes in the village, off Marlborough Road.

Gardening groups to hold autumn shows Swindon Allotments and Leisure Gardens Association will hold an autumn show on Saturday 3 September.

It will be held at Pinetrees Community Centre, Swindon SN2 1QR, at 2.30pm.

A second show, on Saturday 17 September, is planned

by Wroughton and District Gardners’ Society at the Ellendune Community Centre, Wroughton from 2pm.

Further details can be found at www.salga.org.uk and at www.facebook.com/ WandDGS/

12

Swindon Open Studios to return after two-year break

By Jessica Durston jessica@positive-media.co.uk The Swindon Open Studios exhibition will once again welcome members of the public into the homes and studios of local artists.

After a two-year break due to the pandemic, Swindon Open Studios is back this September.

It is a free community exhibition, which aims to celebrate the talents of local artists, during which they invite members of the public into their studios and homes for a chance to see where and how their art is made.

The Open Studios event will also give people a chance to buy original and affordable pieces from the local artists.

The exhibition is now 23 years old, and has grown into a major public art event in the town.

A spokesperson from the Swindon Open Studios team said: "This event provides a

great opportunity for many of our local individual artists to raise awareness about what they do and provides a chance for them to connect with others through their creative pursuits.

"With over 50 artists taking part this year, the studios are as eclectic and individual as the makers, and there is a tremendous choice for visitors, so please do go along and support the creativity in your local neighbourhood."

This year's Open Studios will be taking place across Swindon and the surrounding areas over two weekends in September Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 September and Saturday 24 and Sunday 25 September.

Some of the artists participating this year are: • Ken White • Tim Carroll • Deborah Battaglia

• Sheryll Fox • Peter Edwards • Jacquie Primrose • Eastcott Studios Work by these artists can be seen in the collage above.

People can browse the Open Studios website for specific times, artists, and venues at www.swindonopenstudios.org More information can also be found on Facebook and Instagram at: www.facebook.com/ SwindonOpenStudios www.instagram.com/ swindonopenstudios

Council release tips to cut down on rising energy bills Swindon Borough Council has listed tips for cutting down the cost of energy bills.

In a typical household, over half of the energy bills are spent on heating and hot water.

Here are some things that the council say could help people push back on the October rise involving the energy price cap: 1. For combi boilers, adjust the hot water temperature that comes out of your hot water taps. Octopus Energy recommends that setting your flow temperature to 50°C for heating and 55°C for hot water can save on bills. For a boiler and a hot water cylinder, it recommends setting the flow temperature on your boiler to a few degrees over 60°C for heating and hot water.

2. According to Octopus Energy, condensing combi boilers should be set to about 50 degrees to max your boiler's efficiency. You can set this with the control that usually

has a radiator symbol next to it.

If you set the temperature too high, the boiler won't be able to operate in condensing mode, so you're wasting money.

3. Most modern combi boilers have a 'pre-heat' function, so the hot water in your pipes is set at a certain temperature to make sure you don't have a long wait for your water to heat up. It’s inefficient from an energy saving perspective, particularly in homes with people out at work all day. To save money, check your boiler manual for instructions on how to turn the pre-heat off (it varies per model).

4. Washing machines, dishwashers and tumble dryers account for 14% of a typical energy bill. Washing clothes at lower temperatures can help reduce energy consumption.

Also, try to avoid washing half loads to save water. The same advice goes for dishwashers: use the eco setting if it has one

and set it off when full.

5. Installing thermostatic radiator valves and using them with your thermostat allows you to control the temperature room by room. You could save almost 6% -about £118 - a year on average for a typical home, although an initial outlay is needed.

6. For each degree you turn down the thermostat, expect to cut bills by around 4%, or about £78 a year on average for a typical home.

7. Cutting a minute off your shower time could save £115 a year in energy bills, and a further £105 a year in water bills if you have a meter – £220 a year for an average four-person household.

Contact your energy supplier as soon as you can if you’re struggling to pay your energy bills or are in debt.

Your supplier has to help – usually via an affordable payment plan.

swindonlink.com n September 2022

SE September Master pages.indd 12

19/08/2022 12:51

Author celebrates four historic success stories

By Barrie Hudson barrie@positive-media.co.uk A new booklet highlights the successes of pupils who attended a historic Swindon school.

They range from an international footballer from the golden age of the game to a Chief Inspector (Education) at London City Council.

Sanford Boys School in Sanford Street opened in 1881 and closed its doors for the last time in 1966.

What was initially a standard curriculum expanded to subjects such as technical drawing, inspiring generations of students.

The new booklet, Sanford Worthies, is the work of author Martin Robins.

He said: "Matthew Cammish was the last headmaster of Sanford Street Boys School - he served from 1956 until 1966.

"Mr Cammish was a

Author Martin Robins

distinguished gentlemen who as President of the Association of Head Teachers worked closely with Mrs Thatcher at the time she was Education Secretary.

"When he passed away in 2018, in his 99th year, he left all his papers to myself.

"Included in these was a detailed report on his Sanford decade in which he noted four famous scholars."

The four are Harold Fleming, Edward William Beard, Frederick Hawksworth and

Frederick Herbert Spencer.

Footballer Harold Fleming (1887-1955) made his Swindon Town debut in 1907 at the age of 20, and played his first international two years later.

Such was his skill that when it came to beating an opponent, at least one contemporary football pundit compared him to fellow legend Sir Stanley Matthews.

Edward William Beard was born in 1878 and lived

until the age of 104, having never stopped working at the building firm he led and which still thrives and bears his name.

Frederick Hawksworth (1884-1976) joined the Great Western Railway as an apprentice at the age of 14.

It was the start of a career which would see him rise to the position of Chief Mechanical Engineer.

He was the last person to be appointed to the position before the railways were nationalised in 1947 and British Railways created.

Frederick Herbert Spencer (1872-1946) was a prizewinning pupil who went on to become a teacher and obtain a doctorate.

A prolific and respected writer on educational subjects, he rose to become Chief Inspector (Education) with what was then London City Council.

Copies of the booklet can be obtained by emailing martinrobins@btinternet.com

How social care is changing the lives of children

By Barrie Hudson barrie@positive-media.co.uk

Children’s social care (or children’s services as it’s often called) is probably something most residents will have heard of but may not actually know much about.

That’s why Swindon Borough Council is sharing real-life examples of how teams have supported local children in the community.

Where it is safe to do so, council staff aim to ensure children can remain living with their families.

Social carers work closely with families, such as the family of Nina, pictured, to keep them connected.

Nina said: “Until last year, my life at home with my mum and dad wasn’t great.

“They used to fight and shout at each other all the time, which frightened me and made me want to leave home.

“But then we began working

with a social worker, Katie, who helped my mum get support for her drinking and helped her get therapy.

"They worked with my nan to help me find a safe place to live if I was ever scared at home and they spoke with my dad to make sure I could still see him every week, which I was worried I wouldn’t be able to do anymore.

“Thanks to Katie, I don’t have to listen to my parents arguing anymore but I still get to see

my dad. My mum has told me she’s going to keep getting help and I’ve noticed how much happier she is. I used to feel sad and lonely at home, but now I actually enjoy being with my family.”

Cllr Jenny Jefferies, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, is proud of the efforts of social care staff.

She said: “Most residents understand that social care services are important in Swindon and that the council

supports children with the greatest need until their transition to adulthood.

“While you may think most of your council tax is spent on the things like bin collections or fixing potholes, the majority goes on supporting people in our community who need our help.

"In fact, over 80 per cent of the council’s annual budget is spent providing social care in Swindon.

“I’m so proud of the work our social care teams do to provide a vital lifeline to young people at a critical point in their lives, providing the stability and strength that families rely on.

"We are endlessly grateful to them for their dedication.”

Social care, the council says, changes lives in Swindon.

Further information about this aspect of the local authority's work can be obtained by visiting www.swindon.gov.uk/ socialcare

swindonlink.com n September 2022

SE September Master pages.indd 13

13

19/08/2022 12:51

SE September Master pages.indd 14

19/08/2022 12:51

The essential guide to School Open Days in Swindon Primary Schools: Abbey Farm Educate Together

Brook Field Primary School

Catherine Wayte Primary School

School tour dates for 2023 Reception and Pre-School: 23 & 30 September - 9.15 - 10am 7, 14 & 21 October - 9.15 - 10am

Open Mornings: 1 October, 9.30am - 10.30am or 11am -12pm 10 October, 9.15 - 10.15am 7 November, 9.15 - 10.15am

Open Evening: Wednesday 28 September 6.30pm

Limited tickets can be booked through Eventbrite. The link and details can be found on the school’s website.

Please call or email to book your place.

01793 251109 info@abbeyfarmet.org.uk www.abbeyfarmet.org.uk

01793 874582 office@brookfield.swindon.sch.uk www.brookfieldprimary.org

01793 727405 admin@catherinewayte.swindon.sch.uk www.catherinewayte.swindon.sch.uk

Orchid Vale Primary School

Haydonleigh Primary School Open Day: 1 October 10am - 1pm No appointment necessary.

Open Evening: 21 September 4.30pm - 6pm Headteacher Tours: 8 November, 11am 1 December 2pm Call to book via the number below

01793 700443 admin@haydonleighschool.co.uk www.haydonleighschool.co.uk

Art classes at Orchid Vale Primary

01793 745006 enquiries@orchidvale.org.uk www.orchidvaleprimaryschoolswindon. co.uk

Red Oaks Primary School

Shaw Ridge Primary School

Open Evening: 19 September 4.30 - 6pm Headteacher Tours: 10 November, 11am 21 November, 2pm Please call to book

01793 493920 admin@redoaks.org.uk www.redoaks.org

Open Days: 26 September, 9.30am 4 October, 9.30am 11 October, 4.30pm 1 November, 11am 11 November, 1.30pm 23 November, 11am Call or email to book 01793 871601 lwestlake@shawridge.swindon.sch.uk www.shawridgeprimary.org.uk

Swindon Academy Primary Open Days Alton Close Primary: 12 October Beech Avenue Primary: 5 October 01793 426900 admin@swindon-academy.org www.swindon-academy.org

New Swindon primary school given the green light by Ofsted Educate Together Academy Trust have confirmed that the new Abbey Farm Educate Together primary school has been approved by Ofsted and is ready to open its doors this year.

In early June, the team at Abbey Farm ET welcomed the Ofsted inspector, who was said to be impressed with the new building and the team’s planning for the coming opening to pupils.

The inspection involved scrutiny of documentation and safeguarding, alongside in-

depth questions to a variety of school and Trust members.

Abbey Farm ET Primary, is due to open this September, offering places to pre-school children (aged 3 years plus) and reception class.

More details can be found at www. abbeyfarmet.org.uk. More about Educate Together Academy Trust at www.educatetogether.org.uk or info@ educatetogether.org.uk swindonlink.com n September 2022

SE September Master pages.indd 15

15

19/08/2022 12:51

Ukraine appeal at Nova Hreod Academy

Engineering students at Swindon Academy

Textiles at New College

Secondary, Sixth Form, and Colleges Abbey Park School Open Mornings: 28 & 29 September 9.15 - 11am Open Evenings: 13 & 14 September 5 - 7.30pm 01793 705400 admin@abbeyparkschool.org.uk www.abbeyparkschool.org.uk

Commonweal School Year 5 & 6 Open Evening: 21 September, 6 - 8pm Presentations at 6pm & 7pm Sixth Form Open Evening: 4 October, 6.30 - 8.30pm Presentations at 6.30pm & 7.30pm 01793 612727 admin@commonweal.co.uk www.commonweal.co.uk

Highworth Warneford School

Open Mornings: 10, 11 & 12 October Please contact Mrs Lewis to book an appointment via llewis@ warnefordschool.org or 01793 767083 Open Evening: 6 October, 5 - 7.30pm Headteacher presentations at 6pm & 7pm 01793 762426 llewis@warnefordschool.org www.warnefordschool.org 16

Bradon Forest School

Open Mornings: 26 Sept - 3 Oct, 9.15am Book online: www.tinyurl.com/ BradonForestEvents Open Evening: 22 Sept, 6-8pm.

6.15 & 7.15pm: Headteacher presentation 01793 770570 enquiry@bradonforest.wilts.sch.uk www.bradonforest.org.uk

The Dorcan Academy

Cirencester College Open Day: 15 October 10am - 3pm at Main College Campus Bookings open from 1 September

01285 640994 student.journey@cirencester.ac.uk www.cirencester.ac.uk

Great Western Academy

‘Book a Tour’ Mornings: 20, 22 & 27 Sept 4, 6, 11 & 13 Oct at 9am, 10am & 11.15am

Open Evenings: Year 7 Starters 15 September 5.30 - 7.30pm

Open Evening: 29 Sept 6-8pm. Presentations at 6 & 7pm

Sixth Form 13 October 5.30-7.30pm

01793 525231 enquiries@dorcan.co.uk www.dorcan.co.uk

01793 209700 office@gwacademy.co.uk www.gwacademy.co.uk

Lawn Manor Academy

Lydiard Park Academy

Open Morning: 1 October, 10am - 12pm Tours can also be booked by contacting 01793 487286 or emailing admin@lawnmanor.org.

Open Mornings: 5 & 6 October, 9.15 - 11am

Open Evening: 22 September 6 - 8pm Headteacher presentation at 6pm 01793 487286 admin@lawnmanor.org www.lawnmanor.org

Open Evenings: 13 & 14 September, 5.30 - 8pm

01793 874224 ask@lydiardparkacademy.org.uk www.lydiardparkacademy.org.uk

swindonlink.com n September 2022

SE September Master pages.indd 16

19/08/2022 12:51

More events in the area The Deanery CE Academy Open Day: 26 Sept, 6 - 8pm 01793 236611 admin@dcea.org.uk www.dcea.org.uk Kingsdown School Open Day: 22 Sept, 5pm 01793 822284 head@kingsdownschool.co.uk www.kingsdownschool.co.uk Oxford Brookes University Swindon Campus Open Days: 15 October & 19 November Book place online 01865 741111 query@brookes.ac.uk www.brookes.ac.uk Wiltshire College & University Centre Chippenham Open Day: 5 October, 5 - 7pm Lackham Open Day: 8 October 10am - 12pm 01225 350035 info@​wiltshire.​ac.​uk www.wiltshire.ac.uk

St Joseph’s Catholic College Open Evening: Wednesday 28 September 6 - 8pm

The Parks Academy Trust Sixth Form

New College

Open Evening: Thursday 3 November 5.30pm - 7pm

Open Day: Saturday 8 October 10am - 3pm For both campuses, and all courses Online booking is essential

01793 874224 ask@theparkacademiestrust.com www.tpatsixthform.org.uk

01793 611470 info@newcollege.ac.uk www.newcollege.ac.uk

Nova Hreod Academy

Royal Wootton Bassett Academy

Open Mornings: 4 October & 13 October 9am - 11am

Year 6 Open Evening: 14 September 5 - 7.30pm

Open Evenings: 15 September 6pm - 8pm

Sixth form Open Evening: 12 October Contact can be made via 01793 841905 or sixthform@rwba.org.uk

01793 528800 admin@novahreodacademy.org.uk www.novahreodacademy.org.uk

01793 841900 admin@rwba.org.uk www.rwba.org.uk

Swindon Academy

UTC (University Technical Colleges)

Grammar Stream Open Evening: 19 September at 6pm ‘Have A Go’ Secondary Open Evening: 21 September at 6pm

Open Day: Saturday 17 September 10am - 1pm

United College Sixth Form Open Evening: 6 October at 6pm 01793 714200 info@stjosephscollege.net www.stjosephscollege.net

01793 426900 admin@swindon-academy.org www.swindon-academy.org

01793 207920 info@utcswindon.co.uk www.utcswindon.co.uk

Brunel Academies Trust open recruitment for new staff The Brunel Academies Trust (BAT) are currently recruiting new employees across a number of schools.

The multi-academy trust focuses on special educational needs and disabilities, and primary education sectors.

The organisation covers Uplands School, Horizons College, Brimble Hill School, ARC All Aboard Nursery, Basis, Churchward School, The Chalet School and Westlea Primary School.

The Trust says it is looking for flexible,

patient and creative people to join its team.

The BAT says it can offer term time hours, competitive hourly rates, free parking and benefits packages.

Those interested can find more information online at www.eteach.com/ careers/brunel Brunel Academies Trust contact information: Tel: 01793 426900 Website: www.brunel.org.uk swindonlink.com n September 2022

SE September Master pages.indd 17

17

19/08/2022 12:51

SE September Master pages.indd 18

19/08/2022 12:51

Swindon museums and art gallery team up to celebrate Coate Water's 200th anniversary

By Jessica Durston jessica@positive-media.co.uk

In celebration of Coate Water’s 200 year anniversary, Swindon Museum and Art Gallery has loaned a selection of artwork to display at the Richard Jefferies Museum.

The works in question are facilitated through the Art on Tour programme, which makes Swindon’s art collection accessible through partnerships across the Borough.

The exhibition, Coate 200, shows artworks inspired by Coate Water, including George Reason’s painting ‘The Polluted Lake’, and a new acquisition depicting Coate Farm in 1902.

These join paintings by Kate Tryon which are on long-term loan to the Richard Jefferies Museum from Swindon Museum & Art Gallery. Tryon was an American artist who made

several trips to Swindon in the early 1900s to paint 'Jefferies’ Land.'

An outdoor pop-up exhibition and free drop-in drawing

activities visited Coate Water on 14 August from 10am-4pm.

People were also invited to view the Coate 200 exhibition at the Richard Jefferies

Frank William Salvage ‘A View of Coate Water, Swindon, Wiltshire’, 1974, Oil on Canvas, Swindon Museum and Art Gallery, copyright of the Estate of Frank William Salvage

Museum, whilst enjoying live folk music.

Cllr Matty Courtliff, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Culture, Heritage, Leisure and Town Centre Experience, said: “It was great to see lots of families visiting Richard Jefferies Museum and exploring Coate Water over the summer holidays.

"The Coate 200 exhibition and activities allowed everybody to get involved in the 200 year celebrations and learn more about the history of Coate."

Refurbishment of Coate Water diving board complete

By Jessica Durston jessica@positive-media.co.uk Swindon Borough Council have announced the completion of the Coate Water diving board refurbishments.

To round off #LoveParksWeek (which took place from Friday 29 July to Friday 5 August), the council said it was great to see that the refurbishment of the Coate Water diving board is complete.

Initially scheduled to last 12 weeks, the refurbishment finished three weeks early.

The council says this early completion was due to the great work from its contractors.

The work that took place included a full environmental clean of the diving board, and the removal of its walls to the lower level.

Minor repairs were also made to the concrete structure where needed and security grilles have been installed to prevent access to the upper levels.

The diving board itself has been repainted and the flag pole, which sits atop the Listed structure, has been replaced.

This is said to be just one of a number of improvements coming to Coate Water following the council's Parks Improvement Plan that over 1,000 residents commented on.

Already, a new Garden of Reflection has been created at the side of the lake and work is progressing on bringing a new fully-accessible play area to the park.

The Garden of Reflection has been created at Coate Water to allow visitors to sit and immerse themselves in nature.

It can be found where the old play park was housed.

Behind the seating area there is a lavender bank which aims to create a soothing environment for visitors.

Meanwhile, the view across the lake will allow the public to relax while being isolated from the busier areas of the park.

The fully restored Coate Water diving board

The Coate Water Garden of Reflection

swindonlink.com n September 2022

SE September Master pages.indd 19

19

19/08/2022 12:51

Link Business

Local business aims to help ensure public have their wills in place Rob Young from According to experts, over 60% of the population in England and Wales do not have a will in place.

Asset Guardian Wills Ltd believe this is quite a scary statistic - that all those people have not told their loved ones what their wishes are once the inevitable comes.

When making your will there are several things to think

about, who you want to benefit from your will, who would look after your children if under 18, who is going to sort out your estate and carry out your wishes after your death, however these are just the basics. What do you do if you share a property with someone who isn’t your husband, wife, or civil partner? What do you do if you want to leave money or property to a dependant who can’t care for themselves?

For some families it is not as straight-forward, for example having children from previous marriages without a will in place could mean your children could miss out on their inheritance.

Asset Guardian is a locally-based family firm of will writers and estate planners with over

27 years of experience. The majority of its appointments are conducted in the comfort of the client's own home at a time that is convenient for them.

The business are members of the ‘Society of Will Writers’ - a governing body for the profession.

Asset Guardian Wills Ltd can not only help you with your will, but other services, including Preparing and Registering Lasting Power of Attorney documents and probate services.

For more information or

Asset Guardian Wills Ltd

to book an appointment, members of the public can contact 01793 737246, or via mobile on 07795 250297, or via email: rob.young@ assetguardiancompany. co.uk or the wesbite: www. assetguardiancompany.co.uk

New sculpture horsing around at Swindon roundabout

By Jessica Durston jessica@positive-media.co.uk A new Plough Horse sculpture has been placed on the Gablecross roundabout in Swindon.

Members of the public driving into Swindon from the east will now be able to see the new sculpture that stands guard on the Gablecross roundabout.

The mounds which the horse is placed on were designed

by Trudi Entwistle, while the horse, standing at over two metres tall and made of cold cast iron, was sculpted by Holly Hickmore.

Holly chose a horse as her inspiration for the sculpture as she said she believes it majestically illustrated Swindon’s strong heritage as a farming town.

The artwork was commissioned as part of the New Eastern Villages development (NEV) and 20

Holly's sculpture at the Gablecross roundabout

financed by Section 106 funding.

This means that the money was allocated for the purpose

of this public art and cannot be distributed elsewhere, at no cost to the taxpayer.

People can find out more

about Holly's work at www. hollyhickmore.com

swindonlink.com n September 2022

SE September Master pages.indd 20

19/08/2022 12:51

SE September Master pages.indd 21

19/08/2022 12:51

SE September Master pages.indd 22

19/08/2022 12:51

SE September Master pages.indd 23

19/08/2022 12:51

The Politics Page Getting ready for a massive town centre improvement project Swindon Borough Council leader David Renard's monthly column In a couple of weeks’ time the next phase of a muchanticipated regeneration project will get into full swing.

The new Premier Inn has been slowly taking shape behind the purple hoardings that have enveloped the derelict site opposite The Savoy.

Up until now, the £33m redevelopment of Fleming Way has focused on moving utility pipes and cables and preparing the western end of the road, which used to house Cheltenham Street car park.

But all that will change from Sunday, 4 September, when the road is completely closed to traffic to enable the major work to get underway.

The closure will inconvenience many bus passengers who will have to use alternative stops as the area is transformed but, when complete, I can promise them it will be worth the wait. Not only will they benefit from a new and improved bus interchange, but the public open spaces will be unrecognisable.

New cycle lanes will join up the main cycling routes across the town and new trees and bee-friendly plants will help create an attractive and welcoming environment for shoppers and visitors alike.

I would encourage you to not think of this scheme as just a project to improve bus and

Government officials will have been impressed by the physical benefits the scheme will bring, I think what is sure to have swayed them is the wider economic benefits this change to Fleming Way will bring.

This isn’t just about changing Fleming Way, it is about transforming the area around

An illustration showing how part of the completed project is planned to look

cycling facilities, it is much more than that.

Most of the money for the improvements, £25m in fact, was secured from the Government’s Future High Streets Fund. To get that money we had to submit a seriously strong business case to the Government outlining how these changes will benefit Swindon.

While I am sure senior

it – and further into the town centre. This scheme is a catalyst.

We know investment of this scale will increase land values in this part of town, making it more attractive for investors to bring forward new homes, offices, shops and leisure facilities.

One of the reasons Zurich decided to stay in Swindon and build its brand-new offices

is because of the changes to Fleming Way that are now taking place and we know it will almost certainly ensure the vacant brownfield site at Kimmerfields, right next door, is developed in the future.

It is the cornerstone of almost £100m of council-led investment, which is being ploughed into various town centre projects to upgrade transport links, the public realm and heritage assets.

These will all help to create Swindon’s town centre as a place for people to socialise, shop, work and live. A place where people can set up homes and businesses, stay longer, spend more and keep coming back.

If you’d like to stay updated on the progress of the Fleming Way improvements please do sign up to our dedicated e-newsletter at: www.swindon. gov.uk/newsletter

New candidate praised by Swindon Labour leader Jim Robbins South Swindon constituency Labour Party held their selection meeting recently and overwhelmingly chose Heidi Alexander as the Labour Parliamentary Candidate for South Swindon.

Heidi is an experienced politician, with years of experience in Parliament as well as having front bench experience from being the Shadow Health minister.

She left Parliament to take up a role as the Deputy Mayor of London for Transport, working for Sadiq Khan, and was tasked with keeping London moving during the pandemic.

Heidi was keen to move back to Parliamentary politics, and 24

as a proud Swindonian jumped at the chance to represent South Swindon, where she was born and raised.

The response to her selection has been overwhelming and we are certainly keen to get out and speak to as many voters as we can ahead of the next election.

We have had Labour leader Keir Starmer visit the town this summer, after his declaration that Labour would freeze the planned rise in energy bills in that have been causing so much stress and worry to the public.

Keir was very well received in Swindon, and spent time talking to local businesses and employers, as well as having

an impromptu meet-up with Scott Lindsey, the manager of Swindon Town FC, and his coaching staff.

Keir was delighted to be invited by them to watch a game at the County Ground.

Keir and Heidi visited Nationwide headquarters, met with the local media and hosted a drinks reception at the Old Bank for local business leaders.

Keir set out his support for business as well as repeating his call for more to be done to help the public and businesses get through the Conservatives cost-of-living crisis.

He was really keen to listen to local businesses explain

the challenges facing them in Swindon, asking how they had fared during the pandemic and committed to doing all he can to support them through the tough times that are yet to come.

As the Labour leader on the council, I’m committed to doing the same, and will be trying to steer Swindon Borough Council to offer as much support as they can to local residents through the cost-of-living crisis.

swindonlink.com n September 2022

SE September Master pages.indd 24

19/08/2022 12:51

The South Swindon Parish Council column

By Cllr Chris Watts Chair of South Swindon Parish Council

Buckhurst Family Fun Day At the time of writing this article, the parish council is busy organising a free Family Fun Day at Buckhurst Field, due to take place on the 27th August. This event is run in association with the Nepalese Association of Wiltshire and Nationwide Building Society, offering a variety of activities for the whole family.

This event comes off the back of our successful Queen’s Park Easter Fun Day back in April.

The Family Fun Day will offer free and discounted summer activities to young people inside the parish at a time when families are having to deal with the rising cost of living. We have brilliant live music, games, inflatables and great food! Bring your friends, family and young ones for a day of fun between 10am and 3pm.

Apsley House Moratorium The parish council has triggered a six-month

moratorium on Swindon Borough Council’s plan to sell Apsley House, on Bath Road.

The building that once housed Swindon’s Museum and Art Gallery has been designated as an Asset of Community Value, which means community organisations like parish councils can apply to bid for community properties that are planned to be sold by the public sector.

The borough council recently stated their intention to sell the building on the private market.

The six-month moratorium will give time and space for the Parish Council to survey the structure, investigate the potential of the facility and produce a feasibility study and business proposal.

The closure of the Museum and Art Gallery was a great loss to Old Town and the wider community and, as a listed building, Apsley House is an iconic piece of Swindon history and heritage as demonstrated by the level of outcry when the Museum and Art gallery was closed.

I was pleased that Parish

Councillors supported my proposal to trigger the moratorium on the sale of the building. The moratorium will give time and space for the Parish Council to survey the building, investigate the potential of Apsley House and produce a feasibility study and business proposal.

Front Garden Competition Earlier in the summer the Parish Council ran a free competition which gave residents in the Parish the opportunity to showcase their front gardens with the

possibility of winners receiving a prize. The Parish Council organised this to highlight the importance of front gardens to brighten up local communities.

Recently Parish Councillors presented the winners of the Front Garden Competition with their awards at a prize giving ceremony. The six winners are Gail Collins, Hilary Woodward, Roy and Belinda Partington, Simon Horner, Rhiannon Morris and Nenita Austin. Congratulations to all the winners and thank you to all residents who took part.

Council announce new bid for Health Hydro Swindon Borough Council have announced £6.5 million has been allocated to renovate the town's Grade II listed Health Hydro building.

The council said the funding is to be used to enhance the Hydro's role as a town centre leisure and heritage attraction.

Restoration of the main pool and former Washing Baths Hall, as well as providing purpose built changing facilities and extra gym space, are among the improvements mostly paid for through a successful business case that secured Government funding.

Now the council says it is hoping to go further by submitting a new bid to the Government for funding to deliver a further £10.6m of enhancements to:

SE September Master pages.indd 25

- Restore the original Turkish baths and spa - Create a new community health and wellbeing hub, bringing together health and leisure partners - Make environmental

upgrades and improvements to reduce the energy consumption of businesses and organisations operating from the Health Hydro.

The council says it hopes to find out the outcome of this bid in the autumn.

Those interested can stay up to date with this project and others in the town centre by visiting the council's website at www.swindon.gov.uk/ info/20168/town_centre_ regeneration swindonlink.com n September 2022

25

19/08/2022 12:51

Contractors working in Swindon find 'significant' Roman remains The remains on Wanborough Road

By Jessica Durston jessica@positive-media.co.uk

Work at Wanborough Road for the Redlands Grove housing development is ongoing and the contractor, Conlon Ltd, has found Roman remains.

This news comes after Conlon asked Swindon Borough Council to provide an update on the works on their behalf.

The contractor found what are being described as significant Roman remains, such as an extended Roman trackway, on various areas of the site.

Archaeologists are said to be currently working with the contractor to document the extent of the finds.

The council say this means that Conlon is now looking to reopen the road in early November, but this may be extended depending on what

the archaeologists find.

The installation of new highway drainage, street lights and footpath construction is required on Wanborough Road as part of the new Redlands

Grove housing development for the New Eastern Villages.

Conlon and other contractors have a legal right to do this work and the council says it appreciates residents are

facing disruption as it happens.

A spokesperson for the council said: "We’d like to remind people that businesses in the area are still open, and a signed diversion is in place."

South Swindon Parish Council trigger moratorium for sale of Apsley House

By Jessica Durston jessica@positive-media.co.uk

South Swindon Parish Council have taken action to temporarily put the sale of Apsley House - the previous home of Swindon's Museum and Art Gallery - on hold.

The council has announced that they have triggered a moratorium for the sale of Apsley House.

The listed building used to be the location of the town's Museum and Art Gallery.

A parish council spokesperson said: "At a meeting of its Full Council on the 19 July 2022, it was resolved by South Swindon Parish Council that we will express an interest in Apsley House."

The moratorium is said to provide time and space for the Parish Council to survey business proposal. the structure, investigate the More information about potential of the facility and produce a feasibility study and South Swindon Parish Council 26 swindonlink.com n September 2022 SE September Master pages.indd 26

can be found on its Facebook page at: www.facebook.com/ SouthSwindonParish or at

southswindon-pc.gov.uk

19/08/2022 12:51

Swindon’s Great Western Brick Show celebrates 20 years of the original LEGO fan event in the UK The Great Western Brick Show will return to Swindon’s Steam Museum on Saturday 1 and Sunday 2 October for its 20th year.

Set alongside some of the iconic GWR locomotives and historic exhibits, this year’s event also takes place as The LEGO Group celebrates its 90th anniversary.

Martin Long, co-organiser of the show on behalf of Brickish - the UK club for adult LEGO® fans - said: “We are thrilled to be celebrating twenty years of amazing shows by Brickish members this year.

"The very first public LEGO® fan event in the UK was held at Steam in February 2002 with just a handful of members who brought a LEGO® train display to the museum.

"Over 200 people came to see the models, and were amazed by what adult fans could build with the LEGO® bricks.”

Martin added that since 2002, the Great Western Brick Show had grown year-

29

LINK CULTURE

LINK FEATURES

on-year and this year the team expected to welcome over 6,000 people through the doors over the event weekend.

Members of Brickish have worked tirelessly to create incredible models and inventions to inspire children and adult LEGO® fans.

The event will also feature a giant LEGO® mosaic that visitors can help build.

In addition, visitors will also be able to visit the official LEGO® shop and market place.

Tickets are priced at £12.20 for children (aged between 3-15 yrs); £12.20 for seniors and students, and £14.50 for adults.

Children aged under three years old will go free, and family tickets are also available.

Those wishing to attend must book their tickets in advance.

This can be done online at www.steam-museum.org.uk More information about Brickish can be found online at brickish.org

30

LINK PETS & NATURE

31

LINK POETRY

32

LINK FOOD & DRINK

34

LINK HOBBY

35

LINK CYCLING & SPORT swindonlink.com n September 2022

SE September Master pages.indd 27

27

19/08/2022 12:51

SE September Master pages.indd 28

19/08/2022 12:51

Swindon Shuffle returns for 2023 The Swindon Shuffle has been a fixture in the diaries of local music lovers for the last 15 years, celebrating all that is good about the Swindon music scene.

The 2023 event (the 15th edition technically as 2020’s festival was online) runs from Wednesday 14 September with an opening music quiz event at The Beehive.

Festivities continue until Sunday 18 September, with over 60 acts featured across five main venues in Old Town (The Beehive, The Castle, The Hop, The Tuppenny and The Victoria) alongside fringe events at venues like Baristocats, the Eastcott Community Centre and more.

The event will be raising funds for Prospect Hospice.

The cream of the local musical crop are taking part from across the musical spectrum,

with the focus firmly on artists who write and perform their own material.

This year's line up has been widened by the inclusion of sessions curated by local promoters Bandit Music, Sheer Music, The Swindon Folk Club, and the team behind the Swindon Electronic Music Club alongside the regular Shuffle team.

Acts as diverse as ex Noah & The Whale member Matt Owens with his Americana band The Delusional Vanity Project and Alt Rock bands Aniimalia and Nervendings headline along with Blues Rock duo Bone Chapel, Indie-pop band Reuben’s Daughters, electro-dance lunatics Fort Boyard and roots troubadour Jol Rose.

The event will also feature the much anticipated return of the hotly-tipped Carsick and

LINK

CULTURE

Slagerij performing at last year's Swindon Shuffle - Picture by Chris Clark

a headline set from Jamie R Hawkins and Phil Cooper from The Lost Trades, plus much more.

Organiser Ed Dyer said: “We're really excited to be able to put on the 15th running of the Swindon Shuffle, despite the challenges the year has thrown up, and to continue to raise money for Prospect Hospice.

"We have a really exciting

programme of live music in store, and this year are very excited to have worked with other local promoters to broaden the scope and appeal of the event. As always we are indebted to our amazing venues and sponsors for enabling this all to happen.”

All sessions are free of charge with full details available at www. swindonshuffle.org.uk.

Swindon indie band return to town to play homecoming show and release new album Following a busy summer festival season, Swindon band Talk In Code will return to their hometown to perform a show and drop their latest album.

The Swindon-based indie pop quartet Talk In Code are set to return to The Victoria in Old Town, Swindon on Saturday 23 September.

The Swindon homecoming celebration show follows a packed summer of festival appearances for Talk In Code. The band have played Minety Festival, Home Farm Festival, Taunton Pride, Box Rocks, Great West Fest and many Foodies Festivals all over the UK. The band have spent the summer playing to packed audiences across Wiltshire and all over the UK, supporting esteemed names such as Jesus Jones, Cast, Scouting For Girls, My Life Story, Blue and The Feeling.

Talk In Code, recently signed to London-based Regent Street Records and released their single 'Illogical' earlier in the June of this year. They also played a headline set at the Pimms In The Park event at Lydiard Park on the same day.

The gig at The Victoria this September will also see the release of the band's new single 'The Big Screen' and their third album of the same name. The album will be available to purchase on CD during the night of the gig.

Chris Stevens, lead vocalist said: “Swindon is our home, and it feels so right to be returning to The Victoria, which is one of our

favourite venues to play. Darren and Violet from The Victoria have been incredibly supportive of Talk In Code over the years and we cannot think of a better place to showcase our new album than The Vic! We are proud to be from Swindon!”

Tickets are priced at £6.00 in advance, from www.seetickets. com/event/talk-in-code-riviera-arcade-tom-moore/thevic/2319587 Members of the public can listen to Talk In Code's music online at open.spotify.com/playlist/0TikcUFb6cgfo4uTsqKire More information on Talk In Code can be found at: www. facebook.com/talkincode | www.instagram.com/talkincodeband | www.twitter.com/talkincodeband | www.talkincode.co.uk

Talk In Code

swindonlink.com n September 2022

SE September Master pages.indd 29

29

19/08/2022 12:51

Laparoscopic Spays (Key Hole) A column by Thameswood Vets

Laparoscopic Spay, what is it?

Laparoscopy is commonly referred to as keyhole surgery.

Instead of making a midline cut into the abdomen, operations are carried out through very small 5mm holes with the aid of an endoscope a camera that allows us to look inside the body.

How is it different to a normal spay?

Traditionally a spay requires a 3-4 inch incision, which itself is a source of post-operative pain. The uterus is taken up and pulled through the wound, and the ovarian ligaments are taken away from their attachments on the body wall. This can cause some trauma and bruising - another source of postoperative discomfort. The blood vessels are ligated and both ovaries are removed.

Laparoscopy enables us to remove the ovarian attachments with no tearing and substantially less trauma and bruising. The operation requires only very tiny incisions so wounds are much less painful,

30

and better visualisation reduces the chances of complications.

What are the benefits?

You may have had keyhole surgery yourself – if so, you will know that recovery times are much shorter after this type of surgery and there is much less post-operative discomfort.

There is also less scarring and since wounds are much smaller there is less likelihood of postoperative infection.

Does it cost more?

Yes - but not as much as you might think! Equipment for laparoscopy is expensive and we use the same equipment as a human surgeon (and pay the same price for it as the NHS!).

We do therefore charge a small additional fee for this type of surgery, but this is outweighed by the benefits of a happy pain free recovery.

Will my pet still have stitches?

Usually not, since the wounds are very small, they are usually closed with a special skin adhesive so no stitches are necessary. We like to check our patients a few days after the

LINK PETS & NATURE

operation just to make sure that your pet is comfortable and healing well.

Do you remove the ovaries and the uterus?

Research in Europe and the USA over the past 36 years has shown that removing the uterus (womb) is usually unnecessary and increases post-operative discomfort. We just remove the ovaries, unless we have any concerns over the condition of the uterus. This has the same effect as a traditional spay in stopping seasons, and

preventing pregnancy and reducing mammary cancer.

So, the benefits include; - Small incision size -less discomfort and scarring - Tissue is removed without tearing or traction meaning less pain/trauma - Good visualisation of surgical procedure – minimises complications - Your pet’s recovery time is shorter For more information, prices or availability contact us on 01793 526780.

swindonlink.com n September 2022

SE September Master pages.indd 30

19/08/2022 12:51

LINK

POETRY

Comfort amid sadness thanks to Larkin Maurice Spillane: Of Poetry Swindon

You’ll hear about Philip Larkin in the coming months.

It’s his anniversary. Like most people, I loved his lines: "They f*** you up, your mum and dad.

They may not mean to, but they do."

There was something wild about quoting that to teachers and parents and saying: “It’s a poem, you can’t blame me.”

Larkin was a major influence, his poetry accessible, dour but witty, the outpourings of a sad man.

He made me wrestle with the nature/nurture argument.

He’d a difficult relationship with his parents and blamed them for his misery.

I could empathise as I’d a bad relationship with my father.

It took me years to realise that the behaviour of parents isn’t in our DNA, that you can nurture a road for yourself.

I came to a stage where I thought Larkin should’ve been grateful for a miserable childhood as it gave him material for poetry.

And then, he should have got on with it.

Unlike Larkin, I didn’t let my relationship with my father define me. It helped that I’d five sisters who were having none of it either.

We probably saved a fortune in counselling by supporting each other, a support that started in the weeks it took my father to die while in a coma.

When we were alone, I read Larkin to him, spoke to his silence, and even touched him for the first time.

The salutary outcome was realising his problems were his. They needn’t be mine.

When I throw back my head and howl People (women mostly) say But you’ve always done what you want, You always get your own way.

A perfectly vile and foul Inversion of all that’s been.

What the old ragbags mean Is I’ve never done what I don’t.

Listen on BBC Sounds: “Larkin Revisited” www.mauricespillane.co.uk

swindonlink.com n September 2022

SE September Master pages.indd 31

31

19/08/2022 12:51

LINK

Feasting for Prospect Desert Trek

CULTURE

By Jamie Hill jamie@positive-media.co.uk As some of you might know, Swindon Link is sending a team to trek across The Sahara Desert in March 2023 in aid of Prospect Hospice.

And yours truly is popping along as part of the team.

But to do this we need to raise a good lot of money for the charity and so we are holding a fundraising feast at the wonderful Pick Up Point restaurant in Devizes Road, Old Town.

If you've not been to Pick Up Point, you are really missing a treat as the food there is out of this world with every burger, chicken wing, steak done to such a high quality you'll be thinking about it for days afterwards and wondering if you could marry the chef Josh West.

It's going to be a pretty good event and includes three courses

32

including Korean Wings, the delicious Orange Sunshine burger and a chocolate brownie.

The vegan and vegetarian options are pretty awesome too, from halloumi or plant burgers to cauli wings.

Each diner will get a glass of Prosecco or orange juice upon arrival and there will be entertainment from superb guitarist Jim Blair as well as a raffle.

Us Team Linkers, as we're not calling ourselves, will be on hand to act as your waiters and to talk to you all about what we're doing.

The feast takes place on Monday 24 October at 7pm and tickets cost £37.50 including booking fee.

For more details visit our event page at bit.ly/3PrmWFe or if you can't make but still want to donate to our team visit justgiving.com/team/linksahara

swindonlink.com n September 2022

SE September Master pages.indd 32

19/08/2022 12:52

SE September Master pages.indd 33

19/08/2022 12:52

LINK

Modellers reach for the skies in 1:3 scale

HOBBIES

By Barrie Hudson barrie@positive-media.co.uk The chairman of Swindon Model Aeroclub has revealed his latest completed project.

Derek Russell began building his giant 1:3 scale model of an American 'Spacewalker' aircraft during the first lockdown in 2020.

He said: "The full size aircraft was designed in the mid 1980s and supplied in kit form to the popular home builders' market in the States.

"Its design was to depict the golden era of the 1930s sportster aircraft."

The model is also from America and took about two years to build. It is 6ft long with a 9ft wingspan and is powered by a 39cc petrol engine. The large wing is constructed in three sections for ease of transportation.

It had its maiden flight recently, and its builder describes it as a gentle giant.

Mr Russell said: "I chose to build the giant Spacewalker as I had been progressing into building bigger models over a

Derek Russell's recentlycompleted Spacewalker model aircraft has a 9ft wingspan

number of years. Large models fly more like their full size counterparts and have a great ‘presence’ when airborne. I have now however had to buy a larger van to transport them!

"The model kit came with

four large detailed plans so it provided for a challenging build which I thoroughly enjoyed."

Swindon Model Aeroclub has more than 50 members and shares the flying site at

Sandhill airfield Shrivenham with the Vale of White Horse Gliding Club.

The hobby is open to all, and Mr Russell recommends that anybody considering taking it up speaks to a local club first, not least because clubs have plenty of experienced members happy to give advice.

Going it alone can be costly in terms of crashes and runs the risk of inadvertently breaking the law.

Mr Russell said: "Clubs often have their own model trainer plane that can be flown with two transmitters. An experienced pilot will fly the model and at the flick of a switch let the student pilot fly the plane.

"If it goes wrong the experienced pilot flicks the switch and regains control.

"Within a club there is always secondhand models and radio equipment for sale as members upgrade equipment. This makes great savings against new equipment when starting out."

Further information can be found at SMAC2000.org.uk

Spacewalker preparing for takeoff

34

swindonlink.com n September 2022

SE September Master pages.indd 34

19/08/2022 12:52

LINK

Learning to Ride a Bike!

Monthly column with Becky Cox of Swindon Cycle Campaign.

Recently our little person passed a huge milestone and learnt how to ride a bike of his own!

Unlike my generation, who mostly learnt to cycle using stabilisers, many children nowadays have what’s known as a balance bike. You can either buy a specific balance bike or just take the pedals (and stabilisers) off an existing bike.

A few months after his second birthday, our son started taking an interest in his balance bike. Soon he loved it - realising he had the freedom to get around a bit quicker. He especially enjoyed visits to the local BMX track off Maunsell Way in Wroughton.

We then bought a secondhand pedal bike and took the pedals off, using it as balance bike. Letting him get used to using brakes to stop was key Alfie Howlett: Swindon Town FC writer The key to the ignition of the new season may well have been turned but Swindon are yet to click into gear.

In the earliest ever start to a football season it's been a slow start. three games, no wins.

It's worth mentioning that league titles have never been awarded in August - the hare and the tortoise. In Swindon's case they'll be hoping they're the tortoise. But where is it going wrong for Scott Lindsey's side?

The game is simple, goals win games. But for Swindon the goals just aren't there. If Harry McKirdy isn't on song you really do ask where the goals are coming from.

So far, the most likely source appears to be Jacob Wakeling. The 20-year-old joined Town this summer from Leicester City.

After spending a short period

for his development.

Then, a couple of weeks ago, we were at the County Ground Athletics Track- a perfect environment to learn to cycle. I asked him whether he wanted to try using pedals like mum and dad. He was keen to try so we went for it.

I helped him get started with his feet on the pedals and guided him along with my hand on his back. He soon started to see how moving the pedals around propelled him forward. After a couple of laps I started taking my hand off his back for a couple of seconds, then a bit longer, until I was counting out loud and he was shouting ‘mummy I’m cycling by myself!!’

It was a life-changing and proud moment for him, and for us as parents.

Within 30 minutes he was confidently cycling alone,

turning and manoeuvering around with relative ease.

If you’re keen to help a little one get on a bike, here are three things that really helped: 1. Starting with a balance bike (or a bike without pedals) 2. Having a good quality, lightweight children’s bike. We picked ours up second-hand on Facebook Marketplace.

These are worth investing in as they make cycling easy and fun; buy second-hand and you can usually sell on for a similar price.

3. Involving them in your own cycling trips as a passenger, watching us negotiate around the streetscape, and developing their spatial awareness.

Tips: Typically children’s bikes start from age 3-4 with 14” wheels - however all have slightly different geometry, some much bigger than others.

It's a marathon, not a sprint for STFC on loan with Barrow last season Wakeling has already impressed me. Not only has he looked the brightest in a Town shirt but his work ethic is impeccable.

As well as that, his intelligence is admirable for a player of his age. I can already see comparisons to former Swindon striker Jerry Yates. Nonetheless if you have ambitious of promotion it's a lofty ask for a 20-year-old to be the main man.

The other critical issue is the lack of creativity. Last season Jack Payne was the go-to guy for unlocking the opposition.

This season, in his absence, Town lack that spark.

In addition, with Harry McKirdy now playing further forward Swindon lack someone to run at a back line. When playing three at the back it is obvious that the extra

defender restricts the team going forward and that the wing backs just don't offer enough going forward. One player who I feel could fill the creativity void is Ronan Darcy.

The midfielder arrived from Bolton this summer. Having featured for The Trotters in League 1 Darcy has pedigree behind him. When I've seen the youngster I've been impressed with his passing as well his footwork. I believe that if utilised correctly Darcy could provide the missing link from midfield to attack.

I felt before the season started that Swindon would finish mid table, and looking at the transfer business, it appears the club mirror that ambition.

The majority of incomings have been investments for the future based off the club's new data driven recruitment.

However you can't help

CYCLING

We have a long-legged tall toddler who was able to fit his Isla CNOC at aged 2-anda-half . Some high quality children’s bike brands to look out for are: Isla, Frog, Squish, Hoy, Woom etc.

Other resources for learning to cycle and family cycle include: Family Cycling UK Facebook Page, Cycle Sprog website (www.cyclesprog. co.uk) and British Cycling Ready Set Ride website (www. readysetride.co.uk).

Becky Cox's son learning to ride his bike

LINK

SPORT feeling underwhelmed.

Understandably Town have been tight with the pennies yet this window feels worse than last season where we were under an embargo. In addition this season's start is a complete contrast to last.

Despite having a full preseason and early signings the start does not reflect last season's having had a week's pre-season. There certainly is a concern that by aiming for mediocrity Town leave themselves little margin to fail.

Now is certainly not the time to panic. There have been many teams who have started slowly but ended the season quickly. In fact one of those was once Swindon.

They had a poor start under Paulo Di Canio only to win League 2. But unfortunately in my eyes Scott Lindsey will be no Paulo Di Canio. swindonlink.com n September 2022

SE September Master pages.indd 35

35

19/08/2022 12:52

LINK

TRADE PAGES

Semi-retired Plumber SURESTOP SWITCH installed for hard to get at or seized stop cock

• Disabled extra high toilets fitted • Tap washers & ball valves • Toilet cistern repairs • Kitchen taps fitted Tel: 01793 324116 Mob: 07788 621772

WHITE VAN MAN

SINGLE ITEMS MOVED ANYWHERE IN SWINDON FOR ONLY £35 • • • • •

Full house removal House clearance Disposal of unwanted items Any distance long/short Fully insured

MAKE UP FLAT PACK FURNITURE

Call for a FREE quote Mobile: 07796 236436

36

swindonlink.com n September 2022

SE September Master pages.indd 36

19/08/2022 12:52

In

T

w

s

LINK

TRADE PAGES Approved Electrician Approved Electrician Part P Registered Part P Registered

• Extra Sockets/lights Extra Sockets/lights • • Fuse Board Upgrade • Fuse Board Upgrade

• • Testing andInspection Inspection Testing and Complete Rewires • • Complete Rewires No job too small!

• • No job too small!

Connected Connected Electrical Electrical && Property Services Property Services Call Geoff : 07824 314080 or Tel: 07824 314080 or 01793 703308 01793 703308 Email: connectedelectrical01@gmail.com

Email: connectedelectrical01@gmail.com

Electrical Automation • Up & Over • Roller • Sectional • Repairs • Unit 8, Central Trading Estate Signal Way, Swindon SN3 1PD

Tel 01793 940096 Email info@dgds.co.uk www.dimensions.org.uk

Abacus Cleaning Services Carpets, Rugs and Fabric Upholstery

Hard Floors Cleaned & Sealed 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 www.abacuscleaningservices.co.uk

BOOK-KEEPING 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

swindonlink.com n September 2022

SE September Master pages.indd 37

37

19/08/2022 12:52

AGONY

GIRL

From the pages of Swindon Link's sister publication The Ocelot comes Agony Girl in the form of nine year old Amy. We read her the questions and she tells us the answers. To ask Agony Girl a question yourself email us at publisher@swindonlink.com with 'Agony Girl' in the subject line.

Dear Agony Girl, What is the best way to keep cool in the summer and do you have any tips?

Tyler, Redhouse The best way to keep cool in the summer is if you put a fan in front of where you're sitting and you have an ice cream every four hours except when you're asleep and you're fed up eating ice creams.

Dear Agony Girl, My cat is so troubled by the heat that he has taken to sleeping in the guest room sink with all four legs in the air.

However, this causes great alarm to guests who think he is dead and great alarm to the cat when they forget he's there and turn the taps on. How can I discourage him from these sleeping arrangements?

Cheers,

38

A perturbed cat owner of Old Town You need to buy him a cat bed that doesn't have any fur and a mini-fan that you should put in front of him and don't put him in a warm area.

Dear Agony Girl, I really want a pet giraffe but I live in a really small house with low ceilings. Do you think I should get rid of the upstairs entirely just so the giraffe would fit in?

Gary, Freshbrook No. You should build underground and make it a little bit more of his own height and then he will have his own room and can come upstairs when he likes but when he comes upstairs he needs to duck.

Dear Agony Girl How can I get my teenage daughters to put their dishes in the dishwasher

instead of leaving on the side?

James, Wroughton Take their phones if they don't do it because then they'll be really annoyed at you for taking their phones and then you give them back after doing the dishes. So they get what they want and you get you want.

Dear Agony Girl, How do I get my husband off his mobile phone as he's on it all the time?

Hayley, South Swindon Make him watch TV instead or go out on family day trips every single day or just take his phone away and put it in the bin.

I'm not on my phone all the time because I'm not an obsessed person. Last night I did painting and drawing a lot instead. But I do listen to music through my phone but that doesn't count.

swindonlink.com n September 2022

SE September Master pages.indd 38

19/08/2022 12:52

SE September Master pages.indd 39

19/08/2022 12:52

SE September Master pages.indd 40

19/08/2022 12:52