August 2012 Swindon Link

Keith Chegwin, star of Aladdin, this winter’s Wyvern Theatre panto launching the show at the Hongxin Chinese Buffet.

See page 19

The games are on. See all the action on the Big Screen, plus the Last Night of the Proms. Details on pages 23 to 26 No. 363 August 2012 • Circulation 29,000

on paper, online - the positive newsforce in Swindon

Hop Skip and Jump celebrates first year

Two Bens make their marks

Swindon’s steam railway open all through the summer holidays

See pages 20 & 36 swindon-cricklade-railway.org

MEADOWPARK inspirational education childcare with love

NURSERY

0 to 4 years at Meadowpark Calcutt Street, Cricklade

South Swindon MP Robert Buckland and the Mayor of Swindon Mick Bray cut the first birthday cake to celebrate the success of the respite care centre at Upper Shaw Farm. See page 17

Olympic torch carrier Ben Fox will captain a team making a world record bid in August. Ben Morris and sister Emily spoke at a Rainbow Trust reception hosted

by Samantha Cameron at No 10 Downing Street. See pages 4 & 5

Swindon civil engineer ensures RUN at the Olympic Park is secure. Page 3

Divine Comedy brought Olympic stiltwalking to Big Arts Day in Lydiard Park.

Independent school for boys and girls aged 4 to 11 years Small classes, high standards Registration now open

See our pictures on page 20.

www.meadowparkschool.co.uk

SCHOOL

Tel: 01793 752600

As long as your house is on Rightmove and priced correctly it will sell!

All estate agents advertise on Rightmove so why pay more than you have to? www.forefrontproperty.co.uk

1-18 August 12.indd 1

Forefront only charges a low flat fee, so call us today on 01793 684990!

20/07/2012 14:39

2

swindonlink.com • August 2012

School’s sports stars welcome athletes at Olympic opening ceremony

Eight children in Years 7, 8 and 9 from Lydiard Park Academy (LPA) lined the route as athletes paraded their way through the Olympic Park into the stadium for the Olympic Games Opening Ceremony on 27 July.

Only 204 schools across Britain, one for each of the competing countries, were chosen to send representatives. The Swindon pupils were allocated Georgia to support and took with them a banner made by the art department to welcome that country’s athletes - some of the 10,500 taking part in London 2012.

The academy in Grange Park was selected through the Get Set network, the official London 2012 education programme, in recognition of its commitment to living the Olympic and Paralympic Values and incorporating them into their school lives and curriculum.

Each tutor group at the school chose a country to study and decorated their room with information and flags, and teams of children carried the Olympic message to other schools.

LPA sports coordinator Andy Steckbeck said he was delighted for the children: “It’s a fantastic reward for the hard work they have put in to project the spirit of the Olympics during the last year.

Apart from engaging in their own individual sports, the pupils have run Olympic days in all the West Swindon primary schools where children have taken part in a range

Why move when you can improve?

With over 50 years experience we can project manage your new conservatory from start to finish creating an additional room for you to enjoy all year round - tailor made to suit your needs.

Don’t Forget!

We also sell doors, windows and timber garden buildings.

FENSA

Registered Company

Market leaders in conservatory

1-18 August 12.indd 2

“It’s an incredible thing to be asked to take part in the Olympic opening ceremony.”

Chloe Lewis said the excitement was growing. “We’ve watched how everything is building up to the Olympics. It’s really amazing that we are going to be so closely involved. It’s something we won’t forget.”

As well as having the opportunity to cheer on the world’s best athletes and be part of a global moment, the school groups also had the exciting chance to tour the Olympic Park and see some of the venues before the world turned its attention to Danny Boyle’s Olympic Games Opening Ceremony in the Olympic Stadium later that day.

The majority of the pupils are familiar with the park already, having visited test events in the stadium and the aquatic centre. Charlie Ceremonial participants, clockwise, from left, Loretta White, Ryan Embling, Chloe George said: “It’s a fantastic place, Lewis, Shona O’Dwyer, Charlie George, Tom Sewell, Jay Atkinson, Josh Bowden it will look great when we go there Photo: Richard Wintle www.calypix.com to take part in the athlete’s parade of activities like fencing, archery school had been chosen. “It’s a big and we’ll be watching all the events and rowing as well as Paralympic privilege to go to the Olympic Park; closely on TV. sports such as botcha and goalball.” it’s going to be amazing to see all • Olympic mascot visits Oakhurst.

Boxer and footballer Ryan Em- the athletes.”

See page 4 bling, who organised a Year 7 Tom Sewell, who plays hockey • Swindon Games brings together football league, said before the trip for Wiltshire under 15s and won 2,000 pupils. See www.swindonlink. to London that he was pleased his the Wessex cyclocross league, said: com

Buy a conservatory and get an eco-friendly room with up to £2,000 Free* towards any combination of:

• Cane - Rattan - Laminated Wood Furniture • Tiled Floors • Ceiling Fans • Electric Heaters • Lights Low cost finance available through

subject to status

Check out our website

Visit our show site at: Manor Garden Centre Cheney Manor Swindon SN2 2QJ 01793 526691 conservatoryworld@btconnect.com

www.conservatorycentres.co.uk

*Terms and conditions apply

19/07/2012 12:03

swindonlink.com • August 2012

3

Swindon engineer helps underpin the Olympic Park

A civil engineer from Swindon has worked on the construction of the Olympic Park in East London for the last three years and is now a member of the team planning how to take it apart once the Paralympics is finished.

"Getting the site ready for the games has been a huge and complex project involving lots of engineering companies and contractors doing the work safely. It was an environmentally degraded area which has been dramatically improved in a really tight timescale.

“With the eyes of the world on London 2012 the Olympic Delivery Authority set a very high standard.

There has been immense pressure to constantly check work to cut out mistakes and ensure projects were delivered on time."

CYCLE REPAIRS FREE collection & delivery from home or work Rosemary in front of RUN Inset, how it will look when lit

Former Greendown School pupil Rosemary Ogle was one of the thousands employed by several large engineering companies in building the park. After New College and a civil engineering degree at Bristol University - including trainee placements on building Thamesdown Drive - she joined BAM Nuttall Ltd. in 2003 and worked on contracts across South Wales.

Much civil engineering work is hidden from view and at the Olympic Park Rosemary has been responsible for managing the construction of roads and retaining walls, and in the last two years completion of hard landscaping to the north of the stadium.

A project that everyone will see is RUN, designed by Monica Bonvicini, one of the large scale public artworks commissioned for the park from world renowned artists.

Rosemary was given responsibility for the planning and installation of the three 9 metre high letters made of steel and mirrored glass,

Over 25 yrs experience

lit internally by thousands of LED bulbs. Having taken on the project halfway into the scheme she had to travel to Germany on three occasions to work with the artist and the company making the sculpture to ensure that delivery and erection was completed on time.

She received a commendation and trophy from the Olympic Delivery Authority for her exemplary standard of work in dealing with the construction problems and making sure the agreed completion date was met.

Once the games are over, the Olympic stadium, aquatic centre and velodrome as well as the urban park running through the site will remain. Temporary facilities like the basketball centre, hockey pitches and training areas will be dismantled. The main road through the park, cut in half for the games, will be reinstated and parcels of land prepared for housing and employment over the next few years.

Rosemary is now working on soft

★ Servicing & repairs ★ New cycles ★ Parts & accessories

SAFETY ALERT landscaping schemes and planning the permanent hockey pitches that will serve the East London boroughs.

Rosemary said working on the Olympic project has been a challenge for everybody involved.

Bikes bought on the internet or mail order must be serviced before being ridden. CALL NOW FOR FAST, FRIENDLY SERVICE Phil Mitchell: 874873 day or eve. or 07850 650956 (mobile)

Swindon performers in Olympic shows

New College student Emma Muskett from Highworth, below, joined Janine Cowie from Haydon End, who was featured in the July Link just two of the 10,000 performers involved in the spectacular Olympic opening ceremony on 27 July.

Both were sworn also being selected to secrecy as to their to also perform at the roles in the £27 milclosing event. lion opener called A laser cut gold Green and PleasUnion Jack designed ant, artistic director by former New ColDanny Boyle’s vision lege student Becca of Britain which also Nye is featured on features 120 farmathletes’ outfits for yard animals. the opening show Janine has the unand their presentausual distinction of tion to the Queen.

1-18 August 12.indd 3

20/07/2012 14:41

4

swindonlink.com • August 2012

Warm welcome for Wenlock in North Swindon Olympic mascot Wenlock brought the spirit of the Games to Oakhurst Primary School at the end of May after a huge response from parents who nominated the school to the Lloyds Bank pledge.

Not only did the school earn a visit from the mascot who was excitedly received in an assembly, Oakhurst was only one of ten schools in Britain to be allocated 20 tickets by Lloyds to watch the GB football team at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff.

Photo: Richard Wintle www.calyxpix.com

Marathon match for wheelchair basketball team

Manor Garden Centre Cheney Manor, Swindon 01793 526691 Open 7 days a week

New 2012 Collection

SPEC IA OFFE L RS

Huge range Over 250 fabrics Cane, Rattan, Laminated wood combinations Free local delivery

Young Paralympic hopeful Ben Fox, from Westlea, will captain one of the teams taking part in a world breaking record attempt.

On 11 August, from 10am at Filton hard to be selected for his country College, Bristol, the South West in 2016 Rio Olympics.

Scorpions will make an attempt on He was chosen to carry the the Guinness World Record for the Olympic flame down Royal Wootlongest ever wheelchair basketball ton Bassett High Street on 23 May. match by playing for over 30 hours.

For details about sponsoring Ben also plays for the Great Brit- the teams, contact: carolhearne@ ain under 21 team and is training btinternet.com Ben with his mum Carol Hearne with Olympic and Paralympic sports people knitted by Carol and her friend Liz Peacock to raise money for the world record attempt

www.conservatorycentres.co.uk

PREMIER FLOORING

CARPETS - VINYLS - LAMINATES THE PREMIER SERVICE GUARANTEED TO SAVE YOU MONEY FREE fitting and accessories on all carpet and vinyl orders over £200

FREE moving of furniture and uplifting and disposal of your existing floor coverings NO Hall, stairs and landing surcharges NO Delivery charges NO Hidden Extras All products guaranteed Installation guaranteed Public liability insurance

“WHY PAY MORE FOR LESS”

HOME SELECTION SERVICE NO PRESSURE SALES FREE NO OBLIGATION QUOTATION CARRIED OUT IN THE COMFORT OF YOUR OWN HOME APPOINTMENTS TO SUIT YOU DAY - EVENING - WEEKENDS COLOUR MATCH SAMPLES TO EXISTING DECOR AND FURNISHINGS

CALL STEVEN WALDRON 25 YEARS EXPERIENCE IN INSTALLATION AND PRODUCT TEL 01793 320974 SALES MOB 07812 855250

premier.flooring@ymail.com 6 Marjoram Close Swindon SN2 2TH

1-18 August 12.indd 4

“A FAMILY RUN BUSINESS THAT DELIVERS SERVICE, QUALITY AND VALUE FOR MONEY”

Swindon Publications Ltd. Basepoint, Rivermead Drive, Swindon SN5 7EX Tel: (01793) 608840 e: publisher@swindonlink.com

Publisher/Editor: Roger Ogle Editorial: Tel: (01793) 608840

Editorial for September by 7 August Published: 25 August Copy for October: 4 September ‘Like’ Swindon Link

ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES Call (01793) 602540 or mail: advertising@swindonlink.com Closing date for September advertisements: 3 August

/swindonlink

“The Link was first published for the West Swindon community in December 1978.

It is completely independent of Link Centre and, in fact, won a competition to name the leisure centre in 1984. Distribution in North Swindon commenced in January 1994.”

The contents of The Link are protected by copyright. Use of advertisements in printed or electronic form is forbidden unless an advertiser or publisher has sought permission.

Articles and photographs require similar authority.

Swindon Publications Ltd. cannot be held responsible for goods or services offered by its advertisers Registered in England & Wales. No: 4513027. Registered Office: 130 High Street, Hungerford, Berks. Printed by pcp, Telford

19/07/2012 12:04

swindonlink.com • August 2012

Ben and Emily the centre of attention at No.10 reception

The Morris family from Middleleaze was invited to a star studded reception at Downing Street hosted

by Samantha Cameron to conclude celebrations marking the 25th anniversary year of the Rainbow Trust Children’s Charity at the end of June.

The reception was attended by Rainbow Trust supporters and families as well as some well known faces including Eddie Redmayne, Steve Coogan, Austin Healey, Al Murray, Annabel Croft and Sue Cook.

Eleven year old Ben, who has spinal muscular atrophy, and his sister Emily joined Samantha Cameron and Rainbow Trust chief executive Heather Wood in making speeches.

They talked about the difference Rainbow Trust makes to them and their mum Sandra Young and dad Doug Morris, and how much they always look forward to seeing their family support worker.

The trust provides tailor-made emotional and practical support to Ben and Emily, front, with from left, Heather Wood, Rainbow Trust chief executive, the entire family of a child who has Eddie Redmayne, Samantha Cameron, the Hon Richard Stanley, Rainbow Trust a life threatening or terminal illness. President, Bernadette Cleary, Rainbow Trust founder, John Phizackerley The charity’s vision is that every family in this situation will have social palliative care because we Emily talking about their experiaccess to a Rainbow Trust worker. work with families in desperate ence of Rainbow Trust, especially Heather Wood said: “We are very need and we are committed to mak- when they finished and the room grateful to Samantha Cameron for ing sure they receive the essential erupted with spontaneous cheers hosting this reception at Downing support vital to them. and applause – one of those moStreet which was a wonderful end “Everyone had a fantastic eve- ments we’ll never forget.” to our 25th celebrations. It provided ning and was touched by the way • The trust arranged for Ben to us with the opportunity to celebrate Ben and Emily spoke about the wheelchair the 100 metres in the all that Rainbow Trust has achieved. support their family has received.” Olympic Stadium in April. See the “We are uniquely placed to set the Doug Morris added: “It was a pictures at bit.ly/ben-emily standard and agenda for children’s proud moment listening to Ben and www.rainbowtrust.org.uk

5

DEBBIE BATTEN AD.Dip.CP Dip.Hyp.CS MNCS (ACC) LHS

Psychotherapy and Counselling Helping to resolve life’s difficulties in a safe and caring environment.

Hypnotherapy Help with many issues including: Stress, Anxiety, Fears and Phobias, Weight Loss and Stop Smoking Based in Purton

t: 07557 100943 e: debaburn@aol.com

Top quality food, locally grown and delivered by us to your door via our popular box-scheme (free first box) NOW OPEN: LARGER FARMSHOP stocking fresh locally grown vegetables, organic meat and eggs, dairy produce, honey, preserves, cupboard essentials and household goods

01793 772287 www.purtonhouseorganics.co.uk

Save £ 20,012 on a new Park Home *

Huge discounts available on part-exchanged homes at Blunsdon Abbey Park during 2012 Take advantage of a £20,012 discount on part-exchanged homes throughout 2012 at Blunsdon Abbey Park.

Blunsdon Abbey Park offers a quality residential lifestyle for those in their post-work leisure years, with modern park homes set within the historic grounds of Blunsdon Abbey in North Swindon.

*Yes, really... £20,012!

20,012 reasons to part exchange at Blunsdon Abbey Park...

Part Exchange with a Pine View park home to quickly and simply move without the stresses or extra expense involved in trying to sell your existing home.

• • • • •

A guaranteed buyer for your home No chains or last minute hitches You could move in within 6 weeks* No estate agent fees to pay Downsize and release equity

*Please visit our website for full terms & conditions.

Blunsdon Abbey Park 01793 722100 Blunsdon Abbey Park, Blunsdon St Andrew, Swindon SN25 2DU

1-18 August 12.indd 5

www.pineview.co.uk 19/07/2012 12:13

6

swindonlink.com • August 2012 Advertising feature

Care choices provided through personal attention

Cheriton Link home care has gone from strength to strength as the elderly and adults with learning difficulties can see the benefits of getting a helping hand at home.

Identified by Cheriton Link liveried vehicles, the care team visits clients in their own homes, providing personal care, meal preparation and domestic help from half an hour to up to 24 hours a day.

General Manager, Noreen Gallagher says: “People want to stay in their own homes for as long as possible and many manage to live comfortably with just a little help from us. Often the decision for individuals and their appointments or outings can also be relatives on how and where to live in old provided as well as Meals on Wheels age is most stressful and everyone now, delivered direct to client’s homes. quite rightly, demands choice. Once the One of the most important parts of the decision to accept some professional service is the element of companionship help has been made, the pressure is off that comes from seeing a regular carer. for all involved and families can start Clients and carers enjoy getting to know enjoying quality time together again. each other and many look forward to We then take care of the rest.” their visits. This is particularly imporThe service offers a wide range of tant during bad weather. help across Wiltshire provided by qualiNoreen added: “We take pride in the fied care staff. They assist with washing fact that we have a fleet of 4 x 4 vehicles and dressing in the mornings, lunch time to ensure we can keep on moving; I’m visits and help with going to bed. The pleased to say that we completed all domestic service includes laundry and of our scheduled visits in last year’s shopping, an escort service for medical bad weather.”

1-18 August 12.indd 6

Freshbrook sculpture to be made safe

Nexus, the sculpture created by the late Japanese artist Hideo Furuta at Freshbrook Village Centre in 1986, is to be given new foundations.

Cindy Matthews, right, with localities facilitator Gail Light at Nexus

Coun Cindy Matthews has asked for repairs to be carried out after resident Jon Ratcliffe drew attention to the deterioration in the work.

Hideo moved to Swindon with his family and spent six months on site carving huge blocks of blue pennant stone from a quarry in South Wales - the same as used at Stonehenge - into three interlocking segments which are mounted on wooden railway sleepers.

The project was originally funded

by Thamesdown Council’s per cent for art scheme. Now after 26 years some of the wood is rotting and the stone it supports could become unstable.

Coun Matthews said: “Nexus has been a feature at Freshbrook Centre since it was built; it has a history associated with the community. It now needs some TLC and I’m glad the council’s parks department is going to replace the rotten wood.

“I’m also pleased to find out that Brendon Ball the dentist has been personally picking up litter around his surgery and the sculpture for several years.”

• Cindy Matthews is available to meet residents about community problems on the last Saturday of the month, 10am to 11am in Freshbrook Community Centre (excluding Bank Holiday weekends).

19/07/2012 12:14

swindonlink.com • August 2012

Police call for vigilance

7

Choir gives voice to Toothill

The West Swindon Neighbourhood Police Team continue to see a drop in crime year on year, except non-dwelling burglaries and car crime, according to team manager PC Tom Turner.

Speaking at the West Swindon Forum he said that residents still leave their sheds and vehicles unlocked and are vulnerable to opportunist thieves.

He reported that since the May meeting the police had carried out three successful drug warrants, a dangerous dog warrant on an animal believed to be a pit bull and charged a male in possession of two pit bulls.

He said ten young people had received letters about their antisocial behaviour and two others had voluntarily accepted anti-social behaviour contracts.

He announced that walking buses should start from the West Swindon Centre to Westlea and Oliver Tomkins Primary Schools in September to reduce car parking problems outside the schools.

For the summer months the forum agreed police priorities of patrolling open spaces for extra safety, taking on car crime and the continued battle against drug dealing across West Swindon.

A pop-up choir gave song to Toothill Festival on 30 June.

Formed by twelve residents who had never sung in public, the songsters surprised themselves by how tuneful they were after only two rehearsals.

Sue Millward from Toothill saw the publicity for the Swindon Council adult learning funded singing workshops and signed up with her daughter Jess. She said: “I’ve always fancied joining a choir, but we were not sure what the group would sound like after the first get together. A few members of the Scratch Choir joined in for the second one and they really gave us confidence to have a go in public.”

Jess , who sang the day after the Bradon Forest prom, added: “We just had to learn the words and the tunes; I loved singing together.”

Choir tutor Vicky Sweeney said: “We go on the basis that if you can speak you can sing, you don’t need to read music or have experience.

The residents were unsure about the idea, but they were brilliant and made a fantastic sound.”

• Swindon Scratch Choir meets on Mondays in the Railway Village and Tuesdays at Lower Shaw Farm.

For details call Linda Lee on 01793 875184.

Toothill’s twin princesses for the day, Ashleigh and Shannon Beach www.swindonscratchchoir.co.uk

The second Toothill Festival organised by the Toothill Big Local lottery group in conjunction with Toothill Primary School provided fun for hundreds of people who watched dance groups, martial arts and demonstrations, with live music from Stevie G and Pegasus Brass, and another performance of the Toothill Long Poem.

Residents were also asked to take part in another survey of how the £1 million allocated by the lottery to the area should be spent.

See festival pictures at www. mytoothill.org.uk or facebook.com/ toothillmillion

Concept Kitchens W I L T S H I R E

Beautiful kitchens, Professionally installed

Tel: 01793 531 532 / Mob: 07809 483 597 enquiries@conceptkitchenswiltshire.co.uk

www.conceptkitchenswiltshire.co.uk

1-18 August 12.indd 7

y er ens v i l h de kitc r u ho tock 24 ll s a on

20/07/2012 14:08

8

swindonlink.com • August 2012

West skate park plans on show

A £60,000 skate, bmx and scooter park at Salt Way Fields in Middleleaze is being designed with input from a group of young people and could be ready in December - subject to planning permission being granted.

The scheme will be displayed on Wednesday 8 August, 5.30pm to 6.30pm, in the Link Centre library where there will be a chance to talk to the youngsters and designers from Bendcrete Skateparks.

Aaron Colver, 12, said he was pleased that the dream of a skatepark in the West is coming closer.

“I wrote to Coun Nick Martin over a year ago to say young people needed a place to use BMX bikes and skateboards and not much happened. Then we spoke at the West Swindon Forum meeting in July.

It’s really good that we’re involved in the designs and that the park is Showing off design options, from left, Nick Martin with Liam Dobson, Aaron Calver, and Dan Sharp, Olly Morton and Wendy Davies of Bendcrete Skateparks going to be built.”

Lydiard Fields under threat again

A green buffer between Lydiard Park and West Swindon could have 91 new houses on it in another bid by developers to build more homes.

Having had their application for 175 houses off Hook Street rejected at a planning appeal in May 2011 because of the visual intrusion upon Lydiard Park, developers are back with a more modest proposal for 91 dwellings beyond sight of the park.

Planning consultants Pegasus on behalf of house builders Persimmon Homes displayed their proposals on 23 and 24 July, after The Link went to press.

Residents are again organising opposition to development beyond Swindon’s urban envelope.

See the plans at swindonlink online: bit.ly/lydiardfields

Hope that Wiltshire plan will stave off Ridgeway Farm development

PART OF OUR NEW UPHOLSTRY RANGES

Beautiful • Oak • Pine • Futons • Painted Furniture Plus: Many lovely accessories for your home

Open: Mon to Sat 9.30am – 5.30pm Sun 10.30am – 4.30pm Willoby's Furniture Co. 34 Wood Street Old Town Swindon Wiltshire SN1 4AB

Tel: 01793 693696 info@willobysfurniture.co.uk www.willobysfurniture.co.uk

1-18 August 12.indd 8

Wiltshire Council has agreed its core planning strategy, clearly stating that further housing development beyond Swindon’s western border is unnecessary.

Campaigners against Taylor Wimpey’s proposal to build 700 homes at Ridgeway Farm, north of Peatmoor and Sparcells, hope this will sway the decision of a planning inspector considering the development proposal.

They also hope the inspector’s judgement will be reinforced by Swindon Council’s planning committee agreement to allow 1,700 homes to be built at Tadpole Farm.

Wiltshire councillor Jacqui Lay welcomed Wiltshire’s decision. “I am pleased that the core strategy highlights protection of the distinct character and identity of villages and settlements, especially those which adjoin Swindon Borough Council. It would have been nice to have had the rural buffer reinstated but we are reassured that the policies in the core strategy will protect us.

“Our big issue is the pressure being put onto the infrastructure of the roads as they are inadequate to cope with the existing traffic flows and HGV routes.”

Shaw Residents’ Association chair Kevin Fisher said he was pleased that both Swindon and Wiltshire’s planning core strategies were now aligned against further development to the west, beyond the town’s borders. “It’s a clear statement that Ridgeway Farm should remain as green fields.”

The Wiltshire Core Strategy will now be considered by a planning inspector before another round of public consultation.

20/07/2012 14:44

swindonlink.com • August 2012

9

Oakhurst has been let down says residents’ association chair Following the decision by Swindon Council’s planning committee to grant Crest Homes permission to build 1,700 houses at Tadpole Farm, north of Oakhurst and Redhouse, Paul Exell, chair of Oakhurst Residents’ Association expresses the anger felt by many people living in Oakhurst who believe they are being disadvantaged.

As a resident of Oakhurst I feel let down by our elected representatives whether in the council chamber or at Westminster.

Our elected representatives have convinced us for several years, in repetition ad-nauseum, that they are against inappropriate development. However, when push came to shove at the June planning meeting myself and other residents in Oakhurst believed we had been led up the garden path to have the gate shut in our faces.

a thundering rat-run.

I and other residents fail to understand why our councillors have let us down when so much is at stake.

It has left us in a state of irretrievable breakdown. This feeling has turned from disappointment to heated debate in the community and online.

Coun Elliott, who proposed approval at the planning committee, has decamped. Coun Edwards is doing a good impression of the invisible man. Coun Faramarzi is defending her position by trashing

trick at the residents’ expense as Richard Bell, the council’s head of planning has stated that the Section 106 developer contribution package more than meets legal requirements.

Residents have made it clear that they will fight to have Oakhurst Way protected. If councillors think that this is something they can renege on then they will be the ones that will be disappointed by their decision. http://bit.ly/oakhurstresidents

Winning a new role and beating the competition Providing expert coaching and advice on all aspects of the CV writing and interview process.

Contact Jacky on 01793 772370 or

07795 171010

Stress, Anxiety, Depression, Sleep Disorders, IBS, OCD, PTSS, Eating Disorders, Panic Attacks, Fears & Phobias, Skin Disorders, Habits, Confidence For a FREE initial consultation to find out more about how hypnotherapy can help phone/text 07795 151567

Paul, right, with protestors before the planning committee in June

Our bold local councillors, so brave against inappropriate development collapsed at the first puff from the developer and the council’s planning officers. How did this happen when up until a few weeks ago literature was being pushed through our doors by the same councillors and the North Swindon MP stating that they were with us?

The view of myself and other residents in Oakhurst is that the development at Tadpole Farm is not appropriate because it lacks sufficient school places, it is woefully inadequate in respect of major road infrastructure and even worse than that, it will turn Oakhurst Way into

the residents’ scrutiny of decisions.

This is a sorry state we are in and people in Oakhurst are now realising that they have been jilted by sweet talking politicians in favour of hard-nosed developers.

What is even more galling is that the Redhouse councillors, whose area will be greatly affected by Tadpole Farm, believe it is more important to get a community centre for their village centre, paid for by the developers, rather than roads and schools for Oakhurst.

The planning committee agreed a three month delay while further negotiations with the developer take place. This is a sham or a cruel

CALM gets supermarket backing Swindon Children’s Cancer and Leukaemia Movement (CALM) has been chosen as the charity of the year by staff and customers at Sainsbury’s Bridgemead.

Richard Crowley, chairman of CALM said, “We are very grateful for the support of Sainsbury’s. It will make a real difference to us and means we will be able to help far more children and families in the future.”

Robert Buckland MP, left, launching the year’s fundraising with store manager Zen Karasinki, cafe manager Sue Sainsbury, and Richard Crowley with son Andrew

Emma Triplett Clinical Hypnotherapist DHP HPD AfSFH LAPHP GHR Reg Old Town Hypnotherapy For info & costs visit www.oldtownhypnotherapy.co.uk

Ask Peter B Small Business advice from Peter Bromiley ACA Technical Director AMS Accountancy Ltd.

Q: I install residential conservatories and pay my mates to help sometimes. Do I have to register for the CIS Scheme?

A: The wide range of work covered by the Construction Industry Scheme (CIS) includes installing conservatories.

If you pay your friends as employees, (deducting PAYE and National Insurance) then you need not register as a Contractor under the CIS scheme.

If you pay them as self-employed workers (not PAYE), then you yourself must register under CIS. You must deduct tax from what you pay them, provide them with proper statements, send monthly returns to HMRC and keep proper records.

The penalties for failing to comply with CIS regulations are very harsh and you should take professional advice very soon if you are in this position If you are looking for a good accountant - then call us.

AMS Accountancy Ltd Delta 606, Swindon SN5 7XF 01793 818400 www.ams-accountancy.co.uk

1-18 August 12.indd 9

18/07/2012 16:23

10 swindonlink.com • August 2012

Get in touch with Swindon Council through a facilitator A team of Locality Leads and Locality Facilitators are working with ward councillors to act as a bridge between elected councillors and the communities they serve.

Gail Light has been busy across West Swindon talking to residents about what the facilitators do.

Gail said: “Lots of people have been telling amazing stories and coming up with great ideas. We are working with local businesses and residents to arrange regular litter picks and look after our local parks and open spaces.

“We’ve also helped groups with Is speeding in your neighbourhood a problem?

Council locality facilitators are trained to assist people in the use of speed guns to encourage drivers to respect the speed limit.

For details mail: swindonwest@ swindon.gov.uk

Gail Light with speed gun

fundraising including charity bag packing at Asda, and with grant applications and supported some residents take steps towards a new healthier lifestyle.”

Gail on 01793 466223 or Paula on 01793 466418 or mail: swindonwest@swindon.gov.uk

In North Swindon, locality lead Kathryn Langdown and locality Paula Harrison and Gail Light are facilitator Kati Wood, right, hold available to meet residents and coffee mornings on: discuss West Swindon community • Mondays, 11am to 1pm, North issues on: Swindon Library; • Tuesdays, 10.30am to12.30pm, • Wednesdays, 10am to 12noon, Toothill Community Centre; Haydon Centre, Thames Avenue.

• Thursdays, 12noon to 1.30pm, Drop in to discuss community issues De Vere Starbucks, Shaw Ridge; and to find out which groups need • Fridays, 10am to 12noon, West volunteer assistance, or contact Swindon Library, Link Centre. them: north@swindon.gov.uk or call To contact them at other times, call 01793 466236.

West forum starts to attract large numbers

Around fifty people were present at the West Swindon Forum on 9 July to discuss a range of community issues with the nine Swindon councillors representing the three wards covering the area.

• Swindon Council has allocated - tree thinning/pruning on Tewkes- this year and design consultation nearly £15,000 in community grants bury Way, Cartwright Drive, Shaw, should be completed by early to each of the seven locality areas Swinley Drive, Peatmoor and August. The project is subject to in the town. The West forum has Westlea Park and Upper Shaw planning approval and if received, adopted the council’s guidelines Farm; construction should start in late for applications. The closing date - projects such as cleaning street Autumn; for the next round of grants is 1 signs, painting football pitch lines • Residents also raised concerns September. and insertion of goal posts in sev- about poor communication regard• West councillors have agreed eral parks; ing problems with green waste local highway and environmental • Residents supported the building collection and councillors called improvements on: of a skate park at Salt Way Fields for improvements.

- resurfacing work to Langdale in Middleleaze and welcomed the For details on the forum and how to Drive, Freshbrook alongside the involvement of a group of young apply for a community grant, mail: existing commitment to resurface people in the design process. ����� Fund- swindonwest@swindon.gov.uk Edgehill; ing has been allocated to build it

Swindon College

New work-related Flexible busiNess degree swindon College is launching a unique university level business course designed to fit around your lifestyle For details contact: Basepoint Business Centre Rivermead Drive Westlea, Swindon SN5 7EX t: 01793 608800 @Basepoint_Swnd

The course offers a totally flexible pathway to BA (Hons) in Business.

A nationally-recognised qualification at every stage, which is delivered remotely, so won’t disrupt your working hours or affect your salary.

The format for the Business blended learning programme is: • Year 1 HNC Business • Year 2 HND Business • Year 3 BA (Hons) Top-up year Visit www.swindon-college.ac.uk or call 0800 731 2250 for more information.

our university Partners:

Swindon College, North Star Avenue, Swindon, Wiltshire, SN2 1DY

1-18 August 12.indd 10

18/07/2012 16:23

swindonlink.com • August 2012

11

ww f d te R o re ca A nt Lo RE ce n e th de at gar e th

WINDOWS & DOORS Unbeatable value on windows

FREE

Improvements to the exterior of your home can be daunting, and a customer satisfaction survey by Which? Local magazine concluded that over a quarter of people don’t know how much to pay for their double glazing. The good news is that the guide prices for casement windows in this study shows that our prices are consistently below the national average.

Which? Guide Price† with ‘B’ Rated Glass Small Terraced House (6 casement windows) Semi Detached House (8 casement windows) Large Detached House (12 windows)

£2100 - £2480 £3100 - £3540 £4930 - £5600

What OUR customers say...

GEoRGian baRs

WiTH WindoW oRdERs

Leekes Guide Price# with ‘A’ Rated Glass

£1950

£2925

Leekes 360° Complete Service

Choice | Design | Installation | Aftercare

£4530 Mrs Evans - Swansea

“We were really impressed by the work of your double glaziers - they have done a perfect job and we are thrilled. What a great team all your staff are”

What the consumer experts say...

LEadinG oR

Which? Local Magazine

“Local independent double glazing companies are streets ahead of

household names such as Everest, Anglian and Safestyle and those using local independents are also less likely to experience problems.”

Comprehensive 10 Year Guarantee

3 3 3 3

Trusted brand with a reputable history Huge range including optional extras Assurance from industry accreditation and awards Ask the experts - minimum fuss and maximum service

Visit our studio for a FREE no-obligation consultation Blooms Garden Centre, Hay Lane, Nr Wroughton. SN4 9QN

Tel: 01793 854 223 or 0845 050 8240 Online at leekes.co.uk

† Which? quoted prices are final (including discount) for standard white uPVC frames with ‘B’ rated glass and include all materials, labour, removal and disposal of existing windows, finishing, VAT and incidentals. #Leekes quoted prices are based on the specification listed above but with ‘A’ rated glass as standard.

ABSOLUTELY THE BEST PRICES

See the carpet or floor covering of your choice, where it will be enjoyed, next to your other furnishings.

Home Choose Carpets - the family run business with over 30 year’s experience of serving customers in the Swindon area.

Free estimates. Luxury underlay, all accessories and installation included in the price!

No hidden extras; no obligation - just great service Appointments to suit you: day, evening or weekend

Call Trevor Salter on

01793 812995 or 07860 882588

or email: homechoosecarpets@hotmail.com

www.carpetsswindon.co.uk

1-18 August 12.indd 11

SWINDON 2012

DEPTH UR O L O C F O

, CLUDING N I S D N A RE G BR E LEADIN OWN & MANY MO H T L L A R IN DULUX, C ALBANY, 4 Wyndham Road Hawksworth Trading Estate Swindon Tel 01793 643200 swindon@brewers.co.uk

19/07/2012 12:14

New Brochure!

For the remainder of 2012 (inc.

Christmas & New Year) out now.

Day trips

Date

Destination

Wed Aug 1

Swanage £19.95 £17.95 £14.95 Swanage Steam Railway, Swanage & Corfe Castle £29.95* £27.95* £21.95* Gunwharf Quay Shopping Centre, Portsmouth £18.95 £16.95 £14.95 Historic Dockyard OR Spinnaker Tower, Portsmouth £18.95 £16.95 £14.95 Southsea £18.95 £16.95 £14.95 Banbury (Market Day) & Tour of Cotswolds £15.95 £14.95 £11.95 Weston Super Mare £16.95 £14.95 £12.95 Adam Henson’s Cotswold Farm Park £21.95* £19.95* £17.95* Lyme Regis & Bridport (Market Day) £22.95 £20.95 £16.95 Wye Valley Cruise, Scenic Drive & Tintern £21.95* £19.95* £17.95* Bournemouth OR Poole £18.95 £16.95 £14.95 Manchester City Stadium Tour £34.95* £32.95* £31.95* Warner Bros. Studio Tour - The Making of Harry Potter £49.95* £48.95* £41.95* Exbury Gardens & Steam Railway £31.95* £29.95* £17.95* Beaulieu (inc. National Motor Museum) £33.95* £29.95* £22.95* Bognor Regis £21.95 £19.95 £16.95 Chichester (Market Day) & Bognor Regis £21.95 £19.95 £16.95 Dorchester (Market Day) & Weymouth £20.95 £18.95 £15.95 Warner Bros. Studio Tour - The Making of Harry Potter £49.95* £48.95* £41.95* Cardiff (shops) £18.95 £16.95 £14.95 Barry Island £18.95 £16.95 £14.95 Isle of Wight Steam Railway & Sandown £39.95* £37.95* £29.95* Brighton £22.95 £20.95 £17.95 Cadbury World & Bullring Shopping Centre £31.95* £29.95* £24.95* Bullring Shopping Centre, Birmingham £18.95 £16.95 £14.95 Weston Super Mare £16.95 £14.95 £12.95 Hereford (Market Day), Wye Valley & Forest of Dean £18.95 £16.95 £14.95 Eastbourne OR Eastbourne Air Show £24.95 £22.95 £19.95 Swanage £19.95 £17.95 £14.95 Swanage Steam Railway, Swanage & Corfe Castle £29.95* £27.95* £21.95* Thorpe Park £44.95* £42.95* £33.95* Senior Citizen Special: Bournemouth £13.50 Bicester Shopping Village & Oxford £13.95 £12.95 £9.95 Weston Super Mare £16.95 £14.95 £12.95 Longleat (inc. Safari Drive & all other attractions) £39.95* £34.95* £29.95* London Eye & Thames Cruise £49.95* £44.95* £39.95* Houses of Parliament Tour & free time in London £34.95* £32.95* £29.95* Weymouth Carnival & Air Show £21.95 £19.95 £16.95 Isle of Wight (Cowes, Godshill & Shanklin) £31.95* £29.95* £24.95* Exmouth £22.95 £20.95 £18.95 Jurassic Coast Cruise & Exmouth £29.95* £27.95* £23.95* Kew Gardens & Kew Palace £16.95 £15.95 £14.95 London Wetlands £16.95 £15.95 £14.95 Gunwharf Quay Shopping Centre, Portsmouth £18.95 £16.95 £14.95 Historic Dockyard OR Horse Drawn Boat Ride on Kennet & Avon... ...Canal (inc. sandwiches, cakes & tea) & Newbury £29.95* £26.95* £24.95* Spinnaker Tower, Portsmouth £18.95 £16.95 £14.95 Southsea £18.95 £16.95 £14.95 London (Shops) OR Kensington (Museums) £18.95 £16.95 £14.95 Covent Garden £18.95 £16.95 £14.95

Thu Aug 2

Fri Aug 3 Sat Aug 4 Sun Aug 5 Mon Aug 6 Tue Aug 7 Wed Aug 8 Thu Aug 9

Fri Aug 10 Sat Aug 11 Sun Aug 12

Mon Aug 13 Tue Aug 14 Wed Aug 15

Thu Aug 16 Fri Aug 17

Adult OAP

Child

PLUS EVERYDAY DURING THE SCHOOL SUMMER HOLIDAYS!

www.barnescoaches.co.uk 1-18 August 12.indd 12

CONCERTS

Sun Aug 12 Sat Aug 18 Sat Sep 8 Sat Sep 22 Fri Oct 5 Fri Oct 26 Sat Nov 10 Sun Nov 11 Fri Dec 7 Tue Dec 18 Sat Jan 19 Fri Jan 25 Sat Feb 23 Fri Mar 1 Fri Mar 8 Wed Apr 17 Sun Apr 28

Closing Ceremony Celebration Concert Coach Only £27.95 Party in the Paddock with Jessie J £41.95 Lady Gaga Coach Only £28.95 Party in the Paddock with Lionel Richie £46.95 George Michael Coach Only £26.95 Lionel Richie £84.95 Andrea Bocelli Coach Only £27.95 Once In A Lifetime 2012 £69.95 Peter Andre £60.95 Andre Rieu Coach Only £27.95 Ronan Keating £64.95 An Evening with Donny & Marie £89.95 X Factor Live Tour £69.95 One Direction Coach Only £27.95 Olly Murs £64.95 One Direction £65.95 James Last £89.95

THEATRES Sat Aug 4 Wed Sep 12 Fri Sep 14 Fri Sep 14 Sun Sep 16 Thu Sep 20 Thu Sep 20 Fri Sep 21 Fri Sep 21 Fri Sep 21 Sat Sep 22 Sat Sep 22 Sat Sep 22 Sat Sep 22 Sat Sep 22 Fri Sep 28 Fri Sep 28 Mon Oct 1 Tue Oct 2 Sat Oct 6 Sat Oct 6 Sat Oct 13 Sat Oct 13 Sat Oct 20 Sat Nov 3 Sat Nov 10 Wed Nov 14 Sat Nov 17 Sat Nov 17 Sun Nov 18 Thu Nov 22 Sat Nov 24

Starlight Express War Horse Ghost the Musical Jersey Boys Shrek the Musical The Phantom of the Opera Les Miserables Michael McIntyre Top Hat The Lion King John Bishop - Coach Only Rock of Ages Mamma Mia Thriller!

We Will Rock You Billy Elliot Wicked Let It Be Jesus Christ Superstar from Top Hat Matilda the Musical Singin’ in the Rain Dreamboats & Petticoats Ice Age Live! - A Mammoth Adventure Disney on Ice - Passport to Adventure The Lion King - UK Tour OAP SPECIAL: Lion King & Meal Jersey Boys The Lion King Spanish Riding School of Vienna The Bodyguard SPECIAL OFFER Wicked

£59.95 £74.00 £68.50 £64.00 £68.50 £61.75 £68.50 £65.95 £68.50 £76.50 £26.00 £74.00 £101.90 £58.50 £64.00 £64.00 £68.50 £69.00 £76.95 £99.20 £97.75 £99.20 £54.00 £55.00 £49.95 £77.00 £64.95 £101.95 £103.25 £66.95 £68.50 £68.50

01793 821303 18/07/2012 16:26

up for including Henry VIII and Inspector Clouseau.

Martyn said: “I’ll always treasure the album, alongside the experience of working with fantastic teachers and wonderful children. They’ve taught me an awful lot which I am taking to teach another generation of children which is what I’m passionate about.”

At Red Oaks he will be responsible for information technology, setting up a radio station and PE. He may even volunteer for soak the Above, Martyn’s last soaking at Toothill Primary School fete on 30 June with Megan teacher at next year’s fete.

Bentley-Pearson and Evie Fletcher. Below, Martyn with past and present pupils and the tree planted to remember him by

N e w Te r m New Sh o e s SHOES FOR KIDS from BLAYLOCKS Bath Road Corner Old Town, Swindon Tel: 534271

13 • START RITE • BOOTLEG • CLARKS •

Fond farewell to inspirational head returning to teach

There were tears of appreciation at the end of term for Martyn Cowell who has stepped down as Toothill Primary School headteacher to make a return to the classroom at Red Oaks Primary in North Swindon.

The many gifts he received included a photo album of his 21 years at Toothill, six as head, featuring many of the people he’s worked with, the children he has taught, and the many roles he has dressed

• C L A R K S • S TA RT R I T E • R H I N O •

swindonlink.com • August 2012

Do You Want to?

• Gain a deeper understanding of yourself and become more confident in coping with everyday situations • Make sense of relationships and situations • Manage feelings of stress, depression, anxiety, anger or confusion Elaine Watt Focused Counselling BACP accredited counsellor

Tel: 07919 343407

to make an appointment for a no fee consultation

www.focusedcounselling.com

Swindon College Join the success story...

Highworth Warneford School An Academy putting excellence first

OPEN MORNINGS from Monday 24th September through to Friday 12th October Highworth Warneford is an outstanding secondary school providing an excellent learning environment which allows pupils to thrive and develop their academic, personal and social skills.

So that you can see for yourself the quality of our provision, we would like to invite you to visit the school on a normal working day.

Each visit lasts for about 1½ hours and will give you the opportunity to see lessons and meet pupils and staff.

To book your visit, please contact Mrs Lewis, the Admissions Officer, on:

(01793) 762426

or email: llewis@admin.warneford.swindon.sch.uk

FREE GCSE English & Maths part-time courses. . .

Swindon College is now enrolling for GCSE English and Maths part-time courses for this September.

The courses are free to adult learners who have not already achieved Level C or above at GCSE This is the last year you will be able to study on a modular basis as from 2014 all GCSE programmes will have an exam at the end of course only.

So hurry and secure your place now!

To find out more visit www.swindon-college.ac.uk or call 0800 731 2250 or via email on studentservices@swindon-college.ac.uk Swindon College, North Star Avenue, Swindon, Wiltshire, SN2 1DY

1-18 August 12.indd 13

20/07/2012 14:18

14 swindonlink.com • August 2012

India trip broadens experience for Bradon Forest pupils

Colleen Smith Family Support

Bradon Forest School teacher Debs Shelley reports on an historic experience in April for and her colleague Kerry Beet and pupils Chanaley Alleyne, Maegan Bryon, Emily Bullock, James Green, Ryan Higgs, Tanisha Kalra, Charlotte Markham, Tayten Nyahwa, Emily Tidball, Jack Tyler and Oliver Webb.

Do You Need Support?

This was our second visit to India in three years, part of a British Council Connecting Classrooms project with Jawahar Navodaya Vidylaya, known as JNV schools, and St Laurence, Bradford on Avon.

Bradon Forest pupils were encouraged to fundraise for the trip, developing the skills of team work, self motivation and determination, and to see the visit as a journey, not a holiday.

Our link schools in India form part of a network of schools initi-

Are You Fed Up With  Children’s Behaviour  Feeling Alone  Being Stressed

Colleen is here to help For further Information: Phone: 07859 414 376 www.colleensmithfamilysupport.co.uk info@colleensmithfamilysupport.co.uk

ated by the Indian President Ranjiv Gandhi, to find and foster talented children from rural parts of India.

The schools are residential and enable children from poorer backgrounds from across the country to have an excellent education, regardless of their social situation.

games, and took part in a cultural evening where we watched performances of traditional Indian music and dancing. Bradon Forest pupils performed songs, one in Hindi which our hosts loved. Our pupils boarded at the schools, giving them the opportunity to really interact

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

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

  

Why everybody (yes, you too) needs to consider a Will.

• If you don't have a Will, a total stranger will decide what should be done with your estate and possibly your children.

• If you are married and you do not have a Will the amount your spouse can inherit is limited.

• If you are co-habiting your partner will have no automatic right to any of your assets, including the home you share.

Worse still they can even be evicted • If you have children under 18 they can be taken into State Care. Godparents have no legal standing.

• Your family home can be forcibly sold to pay for your Long

Term Care fees if necessary.

A professionally written Will can avoid all this, as well as providing peace of mind that your affairs are in order.







32 – 33 Commercial Road, Swindon, SN1 5NS.

Tel: 01793 433705 / www.foresightwills.com Foresight Wills are proud members of the New Leaf Will Writers Federation.

1-18 August 12.indd 14

The Bradon Forest group in red shirts welcomed at JNV Taran Taran school

JNV pupils have the cost of their education met in order to provide excellence, equality and social justice. The JNV school motto is ‘Come to Learn, Go to Serve.’ Their pupils aspire to be future leaders in technology, medicine, engineering, teaching and politics, in order to serve their country as adults.

The Bradon Forest group flew from London into the city of Amritsar in the Punjab where they visited the wonderful Golden Temple, a sacred Gurdwara for millions of Sikhs worldwide.

We visited two schools: JNV Taran Taran and JNV Bilaspur. Both welcomed us as honoured guests; indeed, the welcome at Taran Taran was spectacular, everyone received garlands of flowers, pupils performed traditional dancing, flags flying, we were overwhelmed.

During our stay we spent time in the classrooms, observing teaching and learning, and interacting with the pupils.

In the evenings we played volleyball and basketball, unfortunately losing both

with their Indian peers. Our girls were lucky enough to have mehndi tattoos, giving another opportunity for them to engage with the JNV girls.

We also spent three days in Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj the spiritual home of the exiled Dalai Lama where we learnt about Tibetan history, culture, and Tibetan Buddhism. We were fortunate enough to visit the Tibetan Children’s village, a school for Tibetan refugees, and are hoping to develop further links with them through our Key Stage 3 India link.

The British Council Connecting Classrooms project with St Laurence has now come to an end.

However Bradon Forest is already planning a trip for April 2014 to continue our excellent relationship with JNV schools.

• Read the full report with more photographs at http://bfindiatrip

India experience for Chanaley Alleyne, Maegan Bryon, Emily Bullock, James Green, Ryan Higgs, Tanisha Kalra, Charlotte Markham, Tayten Nyahwa, Emily Tidball, Jack Tyler and Oliver Webb

19/07/2012 12:17

swindonlink.com • August 2012

15

Isambard plans to create North Swindon places by bidding to Government to open a free school with post-16 facilities

The increasing demand for secondary education in North Swindon has prompted Isambard School headteacher Rachael Mattey and its governors to set the ball rolling on a bid for a brand new free school to serve the surrounding community and ensure that more children can access school without going by car or bus.

Commenting on her team’s course of action Rachael said: “Swindon Borough Council are aware of a need for school places in this area, but not as soon as we perceive it, which is 2014.”

About 200 free schools have been granted approval since the government announced its Partnerships for Schools policy to enable more choice for parents and more power for teachers.

Schools like this are created by groups of parents, teachers, charities or faith organisations, and, as David Rachel Mattey with a group of Year 11 leavers pictured in the June Link Cameron sees it, are key to “Our next steps are to show the transforming the education system demand for the school, identify and driving up standards.

However, Rachael sees a more possible sites and set out our vipragmatic need for a free school in sion for its curriculum and staffing North Swindon. She said: “Local requirements.”

Consultations to gauge demand parents are really worried about where their children go to school, for further 0 to 19 provision in the and would rather not put them on area, including a sixth form college, a bus, sometimes two, to get there. will begin in the autumn.

Would You Benefit from a Work-related degree?

www.oops-a-daisy-childcare.co.uk Oops-a-Daisy Childcare is the alternative to traditional childminding and nursery care, situated within Kembrey Business Park, Swindon • High quality day care from 2 months to 5 years (No enrolment fee) • Fees inclusive of nappies (under 2s), meals, drinks and outings • Full and part-time sessions available • Free government funded sessions • Holiday club with fun outings and home-cooked meals • Complimentary mini-bus pick-ups and drop-offs throughout North Swindon • After school pick-ups from Red Oaks & Orchid Vale Primary Schools Call Deborah on 07867 502489 or 01793 490893 to find out more

Swindon College Study locally, save money!

university-level education is changing and Swindon College offers a range of courses which are directly linked to individual roles in the workplace • Most courses are one day a week during term time • Our course fees are cheaper than university • Students are awarded their qualification from the university • Courses delivered entirely in Swindon.

Subjects include: Accounting, Art & Design, Business, Civil Engineering, Construction, Computing, Early Years & Education, Engineering, Health & Social Care and Sports Therapy.

NEW for SEptEmbEr 2012 A totally unique, flexible route to a buSiNESS DEgrEE • •

Fast-track in three years or study per unit at your own pace Minimum attendance at college, just four weekends per year. our university Partners:

Visit www.swindon-college.ac.uk or call 0800 731 2250 for more information.

Swindon College, North Star Avenue, Swindon, Wiltshire, SN2 1DY

1-18 August 12.indd 15

20/07/2012 14:24

16 swindonlink.com • August 2012

Toy library needs more members to keep going

The long running toy library and baby & toddler group at Freshbrook Community Centre is in need of more members.

The group is open on Fridays, Parents and carers with children 10am to 12noon for parents to are more than welcome to attend choose toys to borrow. The library the group, play with toys and enjoy also hires out small items of baby refreshments with others, just like equipment, as well as slides and any toddler session. climbing cubes for the garden. The Drop in on a Friday or mail Lyrent for any item is just 30p a week. sanne Dorrell: ldorrell@talktalk.net

Get out and play in Toothill

Little Foxes Childcare & Education

FOR CHILDREN AND THEIR PARENTS Established 1986 The Common, Brinkworth, Wilts Tel: 01666 510356 Just a 15 minute drive from West Swindon & Priory Vale on B4042

l An

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

Toothill Tinies at Toothill Church is celebrating National Play Day by organising their own Play Day + 1 on Thursday 2 August, 10am to 3pm.

All children aged 10 and under are welcome if accompanied by an adult.

It’s free to enter and activities include a bouncy castle, hair braiding, face painting, outside games and refreshments. See more details at www.toothillchurch.org.uk/specials/august-2012 or call Rebecca on 07956 207955.

• National Play Day on 1 August is all about encouraging children and young people to ’get out and play,’ in the street, back garden or open space. See ideas, suggestions and events at www.playday.org.uk

Nursery marks first year

Deborah Baigent is celebrating the first year since she launched her Oops-a-Daisy Childcare at Kembrey Park.

Oops-a-Daisy’s first graduates in July, some of whom had been with Deborah as a childminder

Busy Bees at St Andrews Ridge offers quality childcare and has been recognised as a Centre of Excellence

Deborah had been a childminder for four years with an outstanding Ofsted grading, but, given the limited childcare options available to North Swindon parents, she wanted to open a nursery, after school and holiday club in the empty office building at Redhouse Village Centre. However negotiations with owners Crest Nicholson and problems with planning permission meant looking for another venue.

She launched Oops-a-Daisy

Childcare at Kembrey Business Park in August 2011 and to meet the need for childcare in Priory Vale, the nursery offers a complimentary mini-bus pick up and drop off, as well as serving the local families and businesses.

Deborah said: “I’m passionate about extending my current nursery, as well as applying in the near future to try and bring high quality childcare to Priory Vale.”

• See the advert on page 15

Salt Way Children’s Centre

Come along and find out more about our fantastic initiatives including:Busy Babies, Our Imagination Station, Cooking with Me, Wake and Shake and Steps to Independence Open 52 weeks a year, 7:30am-6pm Home cooked meals with 5 stars for Scores on the Doors For more information call Niki on 01793 726 919 Busy Bees Nursery, Highdown Way, St Andrew’s Ridge, Swindon SN25 4FD www.busybees.com

1-18 August 12.indd 16

Pearl Road, Middleleaze Swindon SN5 5TD Tel: 01793 465364

COME AND JOIN OUR MULTI-COLOURED HOLIDAY SESSIONS FOR 0 TO 8 YEAR OLDS Thursday 26 July, 9.30am - 11am: Red Activities Thursday 2 August, 9.30am - 11am: Yellow Activities Monday 6 August, 9.30am - 11am: Green Messy Activities Thursday 16 August, 9.30am - 11am: Blue Activities Monday 20 August, 9.30: Meet at Lydiard Park for fun activities See our activities timetable at www.childrenssociety.org.uk/saltwaycc

19/07/2012 12:18

swindonlink.com • August 2012

Grand ball raises great total

The Kirsty Farrow Dance Academy

A fund-raising dinner, dance and auction at the De Vere Village Hotel on 30 June organised by North Swindon mum of two Tessa Goring raised over £5,600 for Tommy’s, CALM and the Miscarriage Association.

The black-tie event was Tessa’s third contribution to charities which are very close to her heart, having suffered two miscarriages before the birth of her elder daughter. She explained: “In November 2009 we ran a family fun day and raised almost £1500 for Tommy’s, which researches miscarriage, stillbirths and premature labour. And last summer I trained as a telephone support volunteer for the Swindon and North East Wilts Miscarriage Association.

“I have never forgotten the pain and loss I felt and I wanted to do something to help. The money we raised at the auction was beyond all my expectations, and my thanks go

17

DANCE CLASSES FOR CHILDREN AND ADULTS BALLET – MODERN – TAP STREET JAZZ MUSICAL THEATRE CHECK OUT OUR WEBSITE FOR MONTHLY OFFERS ESPRIT CENTRE, HEADLANDS GROVE, SN2 7HS

07817 476241 or 07980 918192

Tess Goring with event compere Kirsty Herber-Smith

kirstyfarrow@hotmail.co.uk www.thekirstyfarrowdanceacademy.co.uk

to all those who donated such wonderful prizes, as well as to Top Hat Entertainment who kindly donated their services for the evening.”

The proceeds will be split between the three charities.

First year for Hop Skip and Jump

Swindon’s respite centre for children with severe disabilities and life limiting illnesses celebrated its first anniversary since opening at Upper Shaw Farm with the launch of a refurbished outdoor play area costing £10,000 paid for by the Wooden Spoon rugby charity for children, unveiled by Gloucester and England ‘A’ player Andy Deacon.

Rotary Club of Thamesdown presented a cheque for £1,300.

After cutting a birthday cake South Swindon MP Robert Buckland said: “Hop Skip and Jump has gone from strength to strength; it provides a life-line for parents who have children with special needs.”

Centre manager Michael Lowe said: “New families continue to contact us every day. We have widened the age group we provide support to and now welcome children from special schools who enjoy a change of scene.” www.hopskipandjump.org.uk/Swindon

Close to M4 junction 16, just a short drive from West Swindon For children 3 months to five years Open all year from 8am to 6pm Extensive outdoor play & gardens Easy access and safe parking For information call: 01793 851495

www.thedaynursery.com Brinkworth Road, Wootton Bassett, Swindon SN4 8DS

“Delivering high quality care to your child ”

Ages 6 weeks to 5 years Child led activities Stimulating environments Close to J16 of M4

AQUABABIES

BABY & TODDLER SWIMMING We’re the original baby swimming teachers.

Teaching for over 20 years

Open Afternoon

PARENT & BABY AQUA FIT

30 minute exercise program for parents and babies to to enjoy together

01249 661561 www.aquababieswest.co.uk

Wed 22nd August: 2.30pm - 7.30pm

Come and see us today!

Windmill Hill Day Nursery Windmill Hill Business Park Whitehill Way Swindon SN5 6NX

01793 877646

www.childbasepartnership.com

Free Registration Quote WH102

With pools all over Wiltshire and the West there’s bound to be a course near you

1-18 August 12.indd 17

19/07/2012 12:20

18 swindonlink.com • August 2012

preschool gymnastics

Jo Jingles is Here!

Music, Singing & Movement Classes for children aged 3mths to 5yrs

Develop your child’s • Social Skills • Language • Confidence • Listening Skills • Co-ordination • Imagination

where an early start makes a world of difference!

NO JOINING FEE!

Abbeymeads, N. Swindon on Tues Peatmoor, W. Swindon on Fri Call Virginia on 01453 839464 jojingles22@aol.com www.jojingles.com/ centralglouestershire

learning through story, drama and play Baby Story Play

6 mths - 2 yrs Interactive storytelling and imaginative play encourage you to communicate and create with your little one. Be inspired by a new story each week!

Early Years Drama 2 - 7 yrs Delight in your child’s love of story as we fire their imagination, boost their confidence and build their language, listening and social skills through dramatic play.

daily classes for the under 5’s

01793 822262

FREE TRIAL CLASS

Contact Jenni Saunders on 01793 325785 jenni@debutots.co.uk www.debutots.co.uk

www.esprit-gymnastics.co.uk Swindon · Malmesbury · Chippenham · Calne

ISTD - Ballet - Tap - Modern - Jazz Contemporary Street Jazz Musical Theatre & RAD Major Ballet

MEND gives children the chance to become fitter, healthier and happier

Several programmes for children and young people who are above an approved weight and want a fun way to discover their way to healthy eating and physical activity are recruiting for September.

MEND Teens is a free, fun 10- Thursdays, 5pm to 7pm, starting week healthy lifestyle programme 18 September. for 13 to 16 year olds and their All the sessions include ageparents or carers on Monday and appropriate discussion and fun Wednesday afternoons from 4pm games aimed at boosting physical to 6pm, starting on Monday 17 activity. Parents and carers have September, at Stratton Community the opportunity to discuss weight Leisure Centre, Grange Drive, Strat- related issues separately ton St Margaret, SN3 4JY. To find out more about any of MEND for 5 to 7s starts on the MEND programmes, contact Wednesday 19 September, 3.45pm Emma Sperring on 01793 465412 to 5.30pm at Oasis Leisure Centre. or 07818 510563 or mail: esperring@ MEND for 7 to 13s takes place swindon.gov.uk at Link Centre on Tuesdays and www.mendcentral.org

Hockey academy appeals for families to host players

Okanagan Hockey Academy is beginning its first year in Britain, offering high quality athletic and academic programmes to outstanding young ice hockey players from all over the UK and Europe.

The academy is Centre ice rink. recruiting families This high level in West Swindon programme focuses with good access to on positive personal Lydiard Park Acadgrowth in the areas of emy and the Link academics, athletics Centre to host a and citizenship. player in their home The academy relies for the upcoming on host families to school year. provide a home away This year OHA from home for these will have one team young people. Host with between 15 families will receive and 20 male athletes £300 per month for ranging in age from providing accom12 to 15 years old. modation and care.

They will attend For details contact Lydiard Park Acad- Young hockey talent Luc Johnson, OHA administrator emy and follow the coming to live in Swindon from Karen Black on 01793 national curriculum his Milton Keynes home 886857 or mail: oftailored to their training and play- fice@hockeyschools.co.uk ing schedule based at the Link www.hockeyschools.co.uk

Link pool closed for summer refurbishment Link Centre’s swimming pool will be closed from Monday 30 July until Sunday 9 September to allow for retiling. The rest of the leisure centre will continue to operate as normal.

See details of other pools at: www.swindon.gov.uk/swimming

BRING THIS ADVERT AND GET FIRST TWO WEEKS FREE

Classes from 21/2 years upwards.

Lessons held at: The Haydon Centre Haydonleigh School Abbeymeads Community School Blunsdon Village Halls

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

1-18 August 12.indd 18

The Springboard to Confidence for your child Britain’s leading National Active Physical Play programme for children from 6 months to 7 years.

Your child will learn agility, balance, climbing, co-ordination appropriate to his or her age.

Structured programmes designed to build self confidence and develop essential listening and language skills.

Supervised by trained staff in a fun and caring environment.

Tumble Tots now in your area!

For information about local centres call

Liz Davies on 0844 800 0219

19/07/2012 12:22

19

Learn to Lindy Hop TUESDAYS from 11th Sept @ The Supermarine Sports & Social Club Supermarine Rd, South Marston, Nr Swindon

Learn to Jive

Aladdin panto to be all we could wish for

TUESDAYS from 11th Septemberl @ St Paul’s Church Centre St Paul’s Drive, Swindon THURSDAYS from 6th September @ Hook Village Hall, Hook, Nr Wootton Bassett All beginners classes start 7pm

www.justjivelindyhop.com Email: info@justjivelindyhop.com It may still be summer (oh no it isn’t!), but already panto fever is gripping Swindon as the Wyvern Theatre Tel: 01453 752842 launched its Christmas extravaganza Aladdin at Peatmoor’s HongXin Chinese buffet on 4 July.

Keith Chegwin returns to the Swindon stage as Aladdin’s brother Wishy Washy, one year after his sell-out performance as Buttons in Cinderella.

Expressing his delight at the prospect of appearing at the Wyvern once again, Cheggers said: “We got such a lovely reaction last year.

People here are very generous and friendly. It’s clear the Swindon people come out for a good time and it’s bizarre that you don’t need any warming up.”

This year theatre-goers can ex� pect a very special performance, complete with a big elephant, magic carpet and more pyrotechnics than Keith, Ian Mowat and Nick Barclay with Wyvern Theatre staff at the ever.

Hongxin Chinese Oriental Buffet. Photo: Richard Wintle www.calyxpix.com But Cheggers is keen to point out that it’s a very safe panto. He said: at his hotel to help him squeeze into “We’re sticking to the story and there his costume. “Then with my wig on I won’t be anything naughty. You can could hardly fit in the taxi to get me bring your Gran and she’ll enjoy the here,” he said. silly humour as much as the kids.”

Nick Barclay plays the strict au� The script is brand new and prom� thoritarian Emperor who is sure to ises to be fast-moving with lots of gain a high score on the Wyvern’s gags, a lot of topicality and a good boo-ometer as the show evolves.

A 47 bedroom hotel set in the stunning Wiltshire countryside deal of improvisation.

Aladdin runs from Saturday 8 The show also features an December to Sunday 6 January Weddings | Afternoon Teas | Spa Days | Private Functions outrageous Widow Twanky, actor 2013. Book at www.wyverntheatre.

Ian Mowat, who on the day of the org.uk or call the box office on 01793 launch had to ask the receptionist 524481.

The Spa

10th Swindon Mela is Go on 25 August

Following some uncertainty because of funding the town’s annual cel� ���� ebration of South Asian arts, culture, music and dancing, Swindon Mela is confirmed to take place on 25 August in Town Gardens, Old Town.

The event was in jeopardy due to increased costs generally and the recent imposition of road closures and safety measures. Jaz Bhui, chair and director of Swindon Mela Ltd, the not-for profit body behind the event, said: “Despite the fact that sponsorship is down from last year and costs are up, there is still tremendous support and encouragement shown by the many friends of Swindon Mela who have persuaded us to carry on, so it’s full steam ahead.”

The organisers will be asking visitors for a donation of £2 per adult when they come in as part of their campaign: ‘Swindon Mela is Go – thanks to you.’

Bruce Clarke, another of the directors said: “We receive no specific grant to stage this event so it is simply down to our supporters and sponsors to raise funds.

“We’re hoping that this year’s Mela will be the best yet. It’s the tenth anniversary – so we want to make sure that we can provide the best entertainment we can and ask people to give a contribution.

“After all, it is always a wonderful day out, in a great location - the Town Gardens - for us all to celebrate the very best of South Asian culture; great food, great performances, a great community celebration.”

19�48 August 12.indd 19

MEMBERSHIP SPECIAL OFFER: 10% DISCOUNT

(Annual membership only, terms and conditions apply)

Indoor Swimming Pool | Gym | Tennis Snooker | Golf | Steam Room | Spa

The Dining Room

Monday – Saturday Lunch £12.50 per person (2 Courses) Sunday Lunch £14.99 (3 Courses)

The Golf Course

9 holes £12.00; 18 holes £15.00 Membership not required

Super Trouper September Saturday 15 September, featuring Abalicious, three course dinner plus Abba tribute. Book tickets now at £25.00 per person

Tel: 01793 750751

Common Hill, Cricklade, Wiltshire, SN6 6HA reception@crickladehotel.co.uk www.crickladehotel.co.uk

20/07/2012 14:25

Swindon Wide

20

the bigger picture : Soggy shots from Swindon Big Arts Day Lydiard Park was awash with mud, stylish wellies of all hues, and the occasional drizzle on Saturday 14 July. But the show went on, enjoyed by about 10,000 people who heeded appeals not to drive because car parks were waterlogged and arrived by bus, cycle or on foot.

Right, playing the puddles Kaidi Gregory from Park South.

Far right, the Van Dunk Brothers dressed for the flood giving everybody something to laugh about Below: Kye, Kathyrn, Erin and Isla Souter from Abbey Meads taking a break on the sofa seen by the Queen when she visited the Portrait of Swindon exhibition in Salisbury

Seaside picture scene, Alan and Kelly Turner, Cal and Molly Forshee

Tiny the Dinosaur, the life-like Stegosaurus, enjoying a spot of lunch at the door of Lydiard House

See more Big Arts Day pictures at: www.calyxpix.com and bit.ly/slbigartsimages

80’s Night at the Bowl

Modern Romance Saturday 11 August Gates: 6.30pm, Concert 7.30pm Also featuring

Tight Fit

Old Town Bowl

Town Gardens, Quarry Road, Swindon SN1 4EN Relive the moods of the decade when the nearest thing to ‘girl power’ was Margaret Thatcher and big hair, shoulder pads and eyeliner were the norm. And that was just the boys!

Modern Romance emerged in the summer of 1981, and achieved 8 UK hit singles, including Best Years of Our Lives and Everybody Salsa, and three albums and were extremely popular on an international level. In recent times the band has appeared at a special back to the 80’s night in conjunction with BBC’s UK Horizon’s TV and maintained their reputation for being lively and having fun on stage.

Impromptu unrehearsed dance routines are often on the Modern Romance show in response to the Latin beat.

Whatever the weather, it’s always a sunny Latin party when Modern Romance are in town.

Getting us in the 80s party mood are Tight Fit. Their live show delivers non stop hits from the 80s - performed live with a full band of talented musicians. The show is fronted by Tight Fit’s two original female vocalists, Julie Harris and Denise (Gyngell) Waterman. Tight Fit achieved No.1 chart status in 1982, with their hits ‘The Lion Sleeps Tonight’ and ‘Fantasy Island’.

Tickets: Advance £19, Children £5, On the gate: £21 Tickets available from the Arts Centre Box Office, 01793 614837 or online at www.swindon.gov.uk/bowlconcerts

Swindon Bowl Concerts

19-48 August 12.indd 20

20/07/2012 14:51

Swindon Wide

Time for some Pride on 4 August

The Town Gardens, in Old Town will be full of vibrant colours, music and excitement as the Swindon & Wiltshire Pride celebrates its fifth birthday on Saturday 4 August.

Swindon’s Nationwide Building Society is the principal sponsor for the third year.

Jo Sharpe, chair of Swindon & Wiltshire Pride said: “There will be an exciting variety of musicians, including two headline acts, Baby D and Basshunter, well known

performers and community speakers. This year sees the introduction of the The Variety Stage and the Silent Disco.

“People can join in with the Pride Parade through the streets of Old Town, and on returning to Town Gardens enjoy the food stalls and meet service providers such as the Samaritans, the Police and ourselves.”

See details at www.swindonpride. com

Great value all-weather day out in the holidays at Studley Grange

Think of Studley Grange Butterfly World and the Craft Village near Junction 16 and picture beautiful butterflies fluttering by, stunning crafts, kids’ fun at Bonkers, a tasty snack in the 5-star café, or the therapeutic peace and quiet as you paint your own pot. In its 10 year history the Wroughton attraction has certainly earned its place as one of Swindon’s favourite days out.

And now there’s even more to enjoy. Not only can visitors get up close and personal with hundreds of butterflies from all around the world, there are also meerkats, otters, rabbits, guinea pigs, goats, ducks and geese to meet in the

The Blackthorn School of Photography Digital image-making and black and white printing based at our specialist teaching centre near Cricklade Evening, day and weekend courses for beginners and advanced photographers www.photography-courses.com Tel: 01454 416937 or 07920 116492

Images of Coate Water for sale Raising money to combat childhood exposure to online pornography

See canvas mounted pictures at www.triffpix.co.uk To purchase call Bas Jones on 07981 444005

outdoor animal paddock, while the kids can go even wilder in the Adventure Area, with water balls, crazy golf, and the chance to pan for gold or create an eye-catching sand bottle design.

And why not try your hand at a craft activity - from cup-cakes to quilting, model railways to celebration cards. All that remains is to indulge yourself with some tasty treats in the excellent Butterfly Café.

With admission prices remaining under £5 for adults, and under 3s free, the Studley Grange experience continues to be the greatest value day out whatever the weather this summer.

STUDLEY GRANGE BUTTERFLY WORLD AND CRAFT VILLAGE

NOW OPEN

Restaurant, Buffet & Takeaway Fully Licensed Bar

Visit Butterfly World and experience the tropics in Wiltshire, rain or shine, summer or winter. Enjoy a truly magical experience as you walk amongst hundreds of the world’s most beautiful butterflies flying around a tropical paradise of plants and fish filled pools. Then visit our otters, goats, meerkats, guinea pigs and loads more farmyard favourites in our outdoor Animal Paddock. Craft Village offers a huge range of beautiful and interesting gifts, many of which are skilfully handcrafted on site. Follow brown tourist signs from J16 of M4 motorway towards Wroughton.

19-48 August 12.indd 21

21

Shaw Ridge Leisure Park Whitehill Way West Swindon SN5 7DN Tel: 01793 882371/873985 www.miahindiancuisine.co.uk

Admission Charges: A £4.95 C £4.45 S £4.45 F £16.50 (2+2) Opening Times: Summer 2012: daily 10am-6pm Winter 2012: daily 10am-4pm Hay Lane, Wroughton Swindon SN4 9QT Tel: 01793 852400 www.studleygrange.co.uk

The brand new restaurant by award winning restaurateur Arju Miah MBE, pictured with South Swindon MP Robert Buckland and the Mayor of Swindon coun Mick Bray Photo: www.calyxpix.com

Open 7 days a week including bank holidays Saturday - Thursday: 12noon - 2.30pm; 4.40pm to 12midnight Friday: 4.30pm to 12midnight

Collection: 10% discount on orders over £10

20/07/2012 14:27

Swindon Wide

22

HEAD RUSH HAIR AUGUST OFFER

T section, single colour, cut & blow dry £48 (£5 per extra colour) Valid to 31 Aug 2012 with this advert; not to be used with any other offer

Tel: 602552 73 Basepoint, Rivermead, Westlea, West Swindon

Behind Spectrum ‘Renault’ building

Open Tuesday to Saturday Late night Wed & Thurs Free parking • Cash/cheques only

First Swindon festival of poetry planned for 4 to 9 October

In recent years, a love of poetry in Swindon has been growing rapidly with more and more people picking up a book of poems to read, brandishing pens to write, or sitting down to creatively tap away on their keyboards.

The town is ready for a festival week somewhere in Swindon. dedicated to poetry and poets says Next year, the Swindon Festi� co-organiser Hilda Sheehan. “Not val of Literature will celebrate its only have we got a lot of people 20th anniversary so what better involved with poetry in the town time to launch an end of year out� but regularly we have poets coming ing for readers and writers of poetry here from all over the country. They says festival director Matt Holland. seem to like the real appreciation for “We feel that the time is right for poetry in Swindon and the desire to the established Spring festival of hear, read, and enjoy great poems.” literature to have an autumn sister: Supported by Culture Swindon’s focussed on poetry.

Ar tswords, there are reading “Now that we have prize-winning groups, writing groups and open poets and keen readers and lovers mic poetry events almost every of literature in town, we want both to serve them well and develop and embrace an even wider audience Moving forces behind the new Swindon Festival of Poetry, from left, for poetry.”

Plans for the new six-day Swin� Michael Scott, Matt Holland and Hilda don Festival of Poetry, from 4 to Sheehan 9 October, are now well under� surrounding area but also include way. The programme will have up known names and celebrity poets, to twenty events, aimed at all tastes like Robert vas Dias, Jo Bell, and and ages, taking place in a variety of Pam Ayres.

There will also be a vintage bus venues including the Central Library, Swindon Arts Gallery, Lower Shaw tour that will celebrate Swindon with poems and pleasure along the way.

Farm, Artsite, and the Platform.

To find out more, contact Hilda: The festival will not only showcase poetic talent from Swindon and the hildasheehan@gmail.com

New York dreams for performer

Verity Dams, 17, from Westlea has won a scholar� ship to attend the American Musical and Dramatic Academy in New York.

However the talented New College BTEC gradu� ate still has to find $30,000 annually to cover tuition and living costs. She’s in a race against time to raise the funds to take up the place.

Find out if you can help at http://bit.ly/verityamda Verity, left, appealing for help from sponsors

Photos record 30 years of a world first

New Arrival Book your appointment today

01793 613000 info@harmonybrides.co.uk www.harmonybrides.co.uk Devizes Rd, Old Town, Swindon SN1 4BG (opposite The Arts Centre)

19�48 August 12.indd 22

A moving exhibition at Swindon Central Library until 10 September marks thirty years of Helen & Douglas House, the world’s first children’s hospice and the pioneer of the children’s hospice movement.

The free display cel� ���� ebrates the lives of the young people that use the services of the hospice, capturing the images and stories of thirty families from both Helen House, for children from birth to 16, and Douglas House, for young adults aged 16 to 35, which opened in 2004 within the same grounds.

One of the families from Swindon, whose photo� graph is included in the collection, are the Patels.

Their daughter Neelu used to visit Helen House and Neelu, centre, with, back, her mother Manju Patel now receives respite care and sister Purvi Rao, front, her dad Mahesh, brother-in-law Pinakin Rao and nephew baby at Douglas House.

Mrs Patel said: “Ev� Kayaan Rao eryone at Douglas House is very relax and do different things.

“Helen and Douglas House is helpful. We have the confidence to go away and have peace of mind like heaven, we feel she is safe and that Neelu knows the carers and happy there.” www.helenanddouglas.org.uk they know her. We can have a rest,

19/07/2012 10:26

Swindon Town Centre August 2012

www.swindontowncentre.co.uk

How can you get involved with the Olympic Games?

The Olympics kicked off late last month, and if you didn’t manage to get a ticket then you can still get in to the spirit of the Games in Swindon town centre.

Inside

this edition...

One of only 22 Live Sites in the UK, Wharf Green will not only be showing all the action from the capital, but will also be hosting a series of unique ‘have-a-go’ sessions every day during the Games.

For example, why not have a go at a climbing challenge? On Monday 30th July, the Ridge Climbing Team from the Link Centre will be bringing their mobile traversing wall into Wharf Green for a day of coaching and free climbing taster sessions under the Big Screen.

Anyone from eight years and upwards can get involved, and Ridge also cater for those in wheelchairs and with learning difficulties.

For Business For Shopping For Leisure

p2 What’s on in August On Friday 10th August, one of Wiltshire’s finest volleyball coaches, Kelly Jones will be in Wharf Green delivering sessions to budding players young and old.

Anyone from 12 years and upwards can join in, so keep an eye out for the nets in Wharf Green and come and learn a new, exciting sport!

Or perhaps make a visit to town on Saturday 11th August and enjoy the much-anticipated Olympic Date Activity Mountain Bike Race from Saturday 28th July Boxing & Swimming Hadleigh Park in Essex.

Sunday 29th July Rugby & Hockey Wharf Green will be jamMonday 30th July Boccia and Climbing packed full of static cycling Tuesday 31st July Trampolining challenges, coaches from & Water Walkers local cycling clubs and Wii Wednesday 1st August Netball Fit virtual games as the Thursday 2nd August Martial Arts Olympians battle it out on Friday 3rd August Tennis the Big Screen.

Saturday 4th August Orienteering These are just two of Sunday 5th August Basketball the 16 days of fantastic Monday 6th August Football & Climbing entertainment on offer in Tuesday 7th August Street Surfing Wharf Green during the Wednesday 8th August Athletics & Running Olympics. To find out more Thursday 9th August Golf about what’s on, and how Friday 10th August Volleyball you can get involved, visit Saturday 11th August Cycling www.swindontowncentre.co.uk Sunday 12th August Table Tennis & Fencing

p3 Get involved

p4 Back to school

For all the latest news and events visit www.swindontowncentre.co.uk 1 19-48 August 12.indd 23

19/07/2012 11:15

What’s on in August...

Swindon Town Centre

www.swindontowncentre.co.uk

Enjoy the Last Night of the Proms in Swindon town centre Swindon is playing host to the Last Night of the Proms for the fifth consecutive year, on Saturday 8th September and you can be there to enjoy it.

There will be a wide range of food and other refreshments on offer from around Wharf Green, but picnics are also allowed!

Tickets to the Royal Opera House will set you back up to £1000, but you can take in the spellbinding performances from a special arena in Swindon town centre.

To book your place at what is set to be a fantastic evening, email events@inswindon.com, quoting your desired number of tickets.

The show will be beamed back from South Kensington on to the Big Screen with hundreds of revellers set to fill Wharf Green and enjoy what is a uniquely British occasion.

And the entertainment won’t just come from the Big Screen, as we will have a number of performances from some of Wiltshire’s finest musical talent both before the live link-up and during the show’s interval.

The evening kicks off at 6.30pm with pre-show entertainment, before the action from South Kensington gets underway at 7.30pm.

Learn some Premiership football skills with Arsenal Young football fans have the chance to sample the Premiership experience this month as the Arsenal Roadshow rolls in to Swindon town centre.

The ‘Gunners on the Road’ interactive centre offers young football fans the chance to experience a second-to-none Arsenal experience with coaching sessions, virtual dressing room tours and penalty shoot outs all part of a day packed full of hi-tech entertainment.

Starting at 9am with a virtual tour of the club’s Colney Training Facilities, the day will take youngsters through the sort of training sessions and match day routines that the Gunners’ first team stars are used to.

The day finishes with a penalty shoot-out competition, with a host of fantastic prizes on offer to those who can hold their nerve – including tickets to Arsenal home matches for this coming season.

Roadshow will be in Regent Circus from 9am on Friday 10th August. Last summer, over 6,000 football fans took part in the roadshow, and the club are confident of an even better attendance this year.

Places are free, but need to be booked in advance.

Visit www.arsenal.com/gunnersontheroad for more details.

Run by the Junior Gunners and Arsenal Soccer Schools, the Arsenal

Celebrating the Games

Celebrating the Games

For Business For Shopping For Leisure

visit www.swindontowncentre.co.uk for more information

2 Check out the latest galleries from our events at www.swindontowncentre.co.uk 19-48 August 12.indd 24

19/07/2012 11:17

Get involved...

Swindon Town Centre

www.swindontowncentre.co.uk

About us - What is inSwindon BID? inSwindon BID is a Business Improvement District (BID), set up in 2007, which promotes, manages and co-ordinates operations and events in the town centre. It is mainly funded by the retailers and other businesses within the town centre area. In February 2012 the Company was successful in a renewal to secure the future of the company for a further five-years at a vote taken on by the Business Improvement District investors.

The company manages the Street Team Ambassadors, the Security Radio Network, major events and campaigns such as the Christmas Lights Switch On and Armed Forces Day, as well as providing business support and training to investors.

For more details on inSwindon BID: see www.swindontowncentre.co.uk

Find us on Facebook:

inSwindon BID Company Ltd

Follow us on Twitter: @inSwindon

For more information: Media queries should be directed to Kirsty-Heber Smith on 01793 485523 or events@inswindon.com

Where can I get one?

Central Library

Swindon Tickets

Situated in Regent Circus near the Cenotaph in the town centre, Swindon’s Central Library can provide you with a Loyalty Card.

Usually a one stop shop for events bookings, Swindon Tickets is also another venue from which you can pick up a Loyalty Card.

Wyvern Theatre

inSwindon Street Team

Simply pop in to the Wyvern anytime between 10am and 6pm for more information about how to sign up for a Loyalty Card.

Patrolling the streets of Swindon town centre six days a week, inSwindon’s friendly Street Team are always equipped with Loyalty Card application forms.

For more information about the Swindon Loyalty Card, please email rrowland@inswindon.co.uk, or visit www.swindontowncentre.co.uk

For all the latest news and events visit www.swindontowncentre.co.uk 3 19-48 August 12.indd 25

19/07/2012 11:17

Back to School...

Swindon Town Centre www.swindontowncentre.co.uk

However short this summer may have seemed, it’s nearly time for school to start again, and we’ve got some got great tips to make sure your children are ready for the first day back.

Getting into Swindon

One read through this and any jitters will be instantly banished, leaving your kids fully prepared to handle the pressures of that dreaded return to the classroom.

From the north: Follow the A419 and then the signposts to Swindon.

By Car

From the east: Follow the M4 in the Bristol direction and leave at Junction 15, following the signposts to Swindon.

From the south: Follow the A346, following the signposts to Swindon.

From the west: Follow the M4 in the London direction and leave at Junction 16, following the signposts to Swindon.

Train

Uniform

Depending on your schools’ dress code, you could need to buy anything from shirts and ties to new shoes for the start of term.

But whatever you need uniform-wise, Trutex in the Brunel Centre is the place to go. Stocking uniform items such as jumpers, blouses and ties, Trutex is an all-encompassing retail outlet, and also offers a specialist junior school range.

Uniform items can also be found in Marks & Spencer, Primark and BHS – all of which stock a huge range of shirts, cardigans, coats and trousers.

Stationery

A must-have for all geeks young and old, a good set of stationery will set your children up for a great start to the new term.

PE Kit

Children tend to love it or hate it, but if you send them to their PE lessons looking the part then they’ll be halfway there!

Sports Direct in Regent Circus, JD Sports on Canal Walk or Don Rogers Sports on Faringdon Road stock a great selection of shorts, trainers and T-shirts, as well more specialist equipment including squash rackets, football boots and cricket bats.

Laptops

If your budget allows, purchasing a new laptop is guaranteed to send your child back to school with a smile on their face.

And with a number of great value outlets in the town centre, you don’t need to break the bank either!

Paper, pens, pencils, protractors, rulers, rubbers – you name it, Swindon town centre has got it!

Your best bets are Currys in Regent Circus and Western Computers in the Brunel Centre or Argos on Canal Walk.

There are a number of outlets throughout the town centre that can help you fill your children’s pencil case including WH Smith, Ryman, Inkspot and Paperchase.

These are just a few ideas for backto-school shopping in Swindon town centre, and for even more details, visit www.swindontowncentre.co.uk.

With the regeneration work near completion, travelling by train may be the perfect way to get in to Swindon.

The main railway station is just ten minutes’ walk away, and provides connections to London Paddington, Bristol and Wales.

Simply cross the road out of the station and follow the signs for the centre.

Visit: www.firstgreatwestern.co.uk.

Buses Bus services to, from and around Swindon are operated by Stagecoach Swindon and Thamesdown Transport.

There are numerous bus stops just around the town centre and the Swindon Bus Station is a two minute walk from the town centre, under the underpass towards The Parade.

There is also a Park and Ride facility available in Swindon and this runs from Wroughton Park and Ride.

Go to the websites below for more information on bus times and bus stop locations. www.thamesdown-transport.co.uk

www.stagecoachbus.com

Don’t forget Swindon Dance’s Urban Event next month...

19-48 August 12.indd 26

4

19/07/2012 11:18

Swindon Wide

27

No need for boredom with great deals for kids at two Swindon venues

Royal Wootton Bassett welcomes Royale salon

Win tickets to revolting open-air theatre

The Mayor of Royal Wootton Bassett Maz Leighfield launching The Royale with Kelly and her team, from left, Kristy Rowland, Joanne McDonagh, Tess Goring, Lisa Davies

Advertising feature

Kelly Wilson has relocated her successful beauty salon from North SwinSteam, Museum of the Great Western Railway and Lydiard House have don to new, much larger premises in Royal Wootton Bassett. great offers for the holidays.

Children under 16 can visit either dedicated play areas for young chilattraction for just £1 with a full-pay- dren plus the new Platform One Café. ing adult until 2 September. There’s For details call 01793 466637 or plenty to keep all ages entertained. www.swindon.gov.uk/steam At Steam you can make-believe At Lydiard House & Park wander you are an engine driver or signal- through the elegant state rooms of man as you explore the imaginative the house and uncover the lives of and hands-on displays that take the St John family who owned the you on a journey through time and estate for over 500 years. across the ages.

There are costumes for children Climb aboard famous locomo- to try on and the freedom and tives, including the legendary Lode expanse of the lakes, lawns and Star, visit the seaside pier with woodlands to explore, as well as working vintage slot machines and the large play area. even walk underneath the 80 ton For details call 01793 770401 or Caerphilly Castle. There are also www.lydiardpark.org.uk

Illyria Theatre Company promises a sticky, slimy, disgusting yet funny interpretation of Roald Dahl’s ghastly couple The Twits at Lydiard Park on Friday 17 August.

Tickets, £14 adult, £8 child, £38 family, for this nasty and smelly must-see show are on sale from 01793 614837, or www.wegottickets.com/swindonartscentre, from the Arts Centre, Old Town, Swindon Information Centre at Central Library or Lydiard House.

Enter our Twits competition Thanks to Lydiard Park we have two family tickets (two adults & two children). Just tell us who wrote The Twits. Send your answer to the address on page 4 by 9 August.

Her vibrant, elegant and state of the art Royale Beautique offers a wide range of beauty tips and treatments including Shellac, Minx Nails, crystal pedicures, lip enhancements and a number of medical aesthetic treatments from qualified nurses.

Kelly said: “I was really drawn to the friendly community feel of Royal Wootton Bassett and I felt there was room for a fresh new salon.

The welcome from customers and encouragement through Twitter has

Kids for a Quid



I am interested in receiving details of future Swindon Museums and Heritage events. [ ] (please tick box) Name:

at Lydiard House & Walled Garden

This voucher entitles children aged 5-15 years to visit Lydiard Park & Walled Garden between 21 July and 2 September for just £1 when accompanied by a full-paying adult.

Under 5s go free!

Email: Postcode:

Terms and conditions: Valid between 21 July and 2 September 2012. Please note that SwindonCards cannot be used in conjunction with the £1 offer. Up to 4 children enter for £1 each when accompanied by an adult.

Kids for a Quid

STEAM Museum of the Great Western Railway

at STEAM – Museum of the Great Western Railway

This voucher entitles children aged 3-16 years to visit STEAM any day of the week between 21 July and 2 September for just £1when accompanied by a full-paying adult.

Under 3s go free!

Please complete the following information before you use your voucher. We will not pass your details on to any other party:



D13515

Closed on Mondays except Bank Holiday Monday 27 August

D13410

been tremendous.

“I have a great team of specialists working with me, and we offer a huge range of the most up to date and stylish beauty treatments, so I would encourage everyone to visit us. We’re really close to Swindon and you can do most of your shopping here.”

Royale Beautique is to be found at 61 High Street, Royal Wootton Bassett. Tel: 01793 850343. facebook. com/The Royal Beautique

I am interested in receiving details of future Swindon Museums and Heritage events. [ ] (please tick box) Name: Email: Postcode:

Terms and conditions:Valid between 21 July and 2 September 2012. Please note that SwindonCards cannot be used in conjunction with the £1 offer. Up to 4 children travel for £1 when accompanied by an adult.

19-48 August 12.indd 27

20/07/2012 14:30

28

Fully insured mobile hairdresser covering all aspects of hairdressing at AFFORDABLE prices!

Now also offering waxing treatments Free conditioning treatment with any full head foils during August

Call for an appointment 07584 628 123

ARTWORK & DESIGN • WEBSITES LITHO / DIGITAL PRINTING LARGE FORMAT • CANVAS PRINTS STATIONERY • NCR PADS, AND MORE

Unit 101 Basepoint Centre Rivermead Swindon Wilts SN5 7EX Telephone: 01793 490490

kellysmobilehairandbeauty

www.mllprint.co.uk

For the true taste of Italy in Swindon there’s nowhere more inviting than LA CARBONARA family run restaurant 62 Westcott Place, Swindon, SN1 5HW Tel: 01793 527944 Fax: 01793 434039

Until Sunday 16 Sept, 11am to 5pm Royal Visits. Photographs and stories from behind the scenes of royal visits to Lydiard House, from Elizabeth I to Elizabeth II, princes and princesses.

Normal house admission charges

Children & Family

Friday 10th to Sun 12th,1pm & 4pm

Music

Saturday 4th, 7.30pm The Undercover Shadows. This exceptional band is dedicated to recreating the classic guitar, instrumental and vocal harmony sounds of The Shadows. £14.50. Arts Centre Friday 10th to Sunday 12th Swindon Shuffle. Three days and nights of the best local unsigned talent, showcasing an array of musical genres and fantastic entertainment from up to 60 bands. The Beehive, Prospect Hill; The 12 Bar, Park Lane; The Furnace & The Rolleston, Commercial Road; Piri-Piri, Havelock Street; Riffs Bar near Hook. For more details: swindonshuffle.com

Musical

Thursday 23rd to Sunday 26th: Thurs to Sat, 7.30pm; Sat 25th, 2.30pm & Sun, 1pm West Side Story presented by Summer Youth Project 2012 under the guidance of a professional creative team. £11.50 to £13.50. Wyvern

Johanna’s Miracle Garden presented by Swindon Youth Theatre.

Talented young performers working with a professional production team bring to life the story of Lady Johanna St John of Lydiard Park and her “booke” of cures. £7; junior £4; family £18, tickets from Arts Centre. The lawn in front of Lydiard House Saturdays 11th, & 25th, 10am to 5pm Meet the Railway Workers. Former engine drivers, firemen and railway workers bring the days of steam to life.

Normal admission charges. STEAM Friday 17th, 6.30pm The Twits. See details of this totally revolting open air show at Lydiard Park, and a competition to win tickets, on page 27 Wednesday 29th,1pm & 3.30pm Milkshake Live Tour! The all singing, all dancing show with bags of audience interaction. £13; children £11; family £40. Wyvern

Sp

o

n

So

re

d

by :

www.lacarbonara-restaurant.co.uk

Exhibition

‘Western view layout - picture courtesy of Model rail’

Mobile Hair & Beauty

FOR ALL YOUR PRINT & DIGITAL REQUIREMENTS IN WEST SWINDON

Swindon Wide What’s

p Sho

e Th

The

e Caf

e Th ery h utc

B

n atio c o L

We are a family business selling home reared and locally sourced meat,

vegetables, bread, groceries and more Offering tea, coffee, cold drinks ,

cakes and a selection of hot and cold snacks

The big gWr evenT of The year

Saturday 15 and Sunday 16 September 2012 10.00 am to 5.00 pm

We have a friendly full time butcher

Celebrate the UK’s best model railways at STeaM – Museum of the great Western railway

offering a wide selection of cuts from the counter

The Ridgeway, Chiseldon, SN4 0HT

Join pete Waterman, bachmann, hornby and dapol for the ultimate display of model railway layouts, traders, steam vehicles and hands-on modelling demonstrations.

3 miles south of Swindon Just off J15 of the M4

See website for opening times.

We look forward to welcoming you soon! www.threetreesfarm.co.uk

Come and see the new and unseen ‘harry Collection’, STeaM’s largest ever donation of gWr artefacts STeaM - Museum of the great Western railway | fire fly avenue | Swindon | Sn2 2na Tel: (01793) 466637 www.swindon.gov.uk/steam | www.facebook.com/steammuseum

01793 741436

Hornby Swindon Steam 2012 (1/4 Ad) 1

19-48 August 12.indd 28

20/06/2012 14:38

19/07/2012 12:24

On in August

29

Roves Farm has lots for the holiday

D & L Blinds

Since suffering a devastating fire in early May, the Burr family, staff and volunteers at Roves Farm Visitor Centre rapidly put together a plan to reopen in time for the summer holidays.

Even if the weather continues to be gloomy, indoor facilities have been relocated to another refurbished barn to provide super play facilities. The outside play area, bale stack and big slide continue as normal as does the animal shed and pets corner.

Owner Rupert Burr said Roves is ready to welcome visitors over the summer. “It was a great relief to reopen at the end of June after a very stressful time. We had hundreds of messages of support which really helped us to knuckle down and work hard to get up and running as quickly as possible.”

Rupert Burr with his marketing manager Because six weeks of daughter Pippa opening has been lost Roves Farm is going to heat its build- See the Roves advert on the right. ing and open throughout November.

Coming up at Roves Farm Sat 21 July to Wednesday 1 Aug Robin Hood. Help Robin Hood and his Merry Men down in Roves Forest.

Thursday 2 to Sunday 12 August The Very Hungry Caterpillar. Jump on a tractor pulled trailer and follow the story of the Hungry Caterpillar.

Monday 13 to Wednesday 22 August The Bear Hunt. Join Roves Farm’s very own explorer on the tractor.

Thursday 23 to Sunday 2 September Sunflowers. Search for them on a tractor ride, do the quiz and take home your own unique specimen.

Venues

Arts Centre Devizes Road Tel: 614837 Central Library Regent Circus Tel: 463238 Lydiard House Lydiard Park Tel: 770401 Roves Farm Sevenhampton Nr Highworth. Tel: 763939 STEAM Kemble Drive. Tel: 466637 Swindon & Cricklade Railway Tadpole Lane. Tel: 771615 Swindon Information Centre Central Library. Tel: 530328 Wyvern Theatre Tel: 524481

Rollers•Verticals•Venetians Pleated Blinds•VELUX® Conservatory Blinds Made-to-Measure Curtains

By Sue ◆ Your local family hairdresser ◆ 25% discount for Seniors

Call now for an appointment on 01793 871120 or 07967 363322 HOME VISITS AVAILABLE

QUALITY BLINDS AT AFFORDABLE PRICES Fast and reliable service All blinds fitted free

Choose from a wide range of fabrics from the comfort of your own home Contact Paul on 01793 619428

www.dandlblinds.co.uk FREE QUOTES NO OBLIGATION

Fun is bow-shaped!

Experience Black Cat Archery at Roves Farm Everyone from the seasoned archer to the absolute beginner will find something to enjoy at our archery centre. ➢ Equipment & Tuition Provided ➢ Safe Environment ➢ Corporate and group events ➢ Special parties for 7 years and older New Combat sport just arrived from the US. Tried Paintball, Air Soft? Now try Archery Tag! Check out www.Archery-tag.eu For details and to arrange a meet, contact Andrew: Andrew@blackcatarchery.com or call 07809 729260 www.blackcatarchery.com We are at Roves Farm, Sevenhampton, Swindon, Wilts., SN6 7QS

Roves Farm A great day out, come rain or shine

Confirm date, time & price with venue

250

BIKES ON SHOW All shapes, sizes and prices at:

SWINDON CYCLES SUPER STORE

where the • Choice is great • Prices are right • Parking is free

See the lightweight road models and modern electric bikes Parts, accessories & repairs by trained staff

Tel: (01793) 700105 60a Beechcroft Rd, SN2 6QD Between Stratton Crossroads & Kingsdown

www.swindoncycles.co.uk Open: Mon to Sat, 9am to 5.30pm

19-48 August 12.indd 29

Sevenhampton, Nr. Highworth, Swindon, Wilts.

SN6 7QG 01793 763939

OPEN DAILY, 10:30 - 5:00pm

Full programme of events throughout the day: * Meet & Feed the Animals- three times a day ! * FREE Tractor & Trailer Rides around the farm * Children’s Themed Making & Sticking * Indoor Toddlers Soft Play & Sandpit * Activity Barn with Pedal Tractors, Giant Slide & Ball Pond * Big Straw Bale Stack, Bouncy Castle & Outdoor Play Area * Tearoom - delicious homemade cakes & light lunches ! * NEW for Summer 2012- Den building in 2 acre willow area Special Themed Events throughout Summer Holidays Childrens Birthday Parties

www.rovesfarm.co.uk

19/07/2012 10:35

30

swindonlink.com • August 2012

Technology helps youngsters understand how to do better

Shaw Ridge Primary School held a Sports Technology Day in late June to help children get more out of the Olympics than just watch competition on television. They took part in a series of physical exercises to understand the science of improving performance.

Biggest Ever

SALE SALE SALE Starts 18th August

PENZANCE DRIVE, SWINDON NEXT TO THE TOYOTA DEALERSHIP

TEL: 01793 528208 WWW.HARGROVESCYCLES.CO.UK

From left, Hannah Odawara, Ryan Looker, João Pires, Shakira Simpson, Lenny Lawrence, Katie Skinner

Mike Riddler of Energise 7 put children through their paces using a rowing machine, laser timed relay runs and a Batak reaction wall to show how technology is utilised to bring out the best in athletes of any age or ability.

Shaw Ridge PE coordinator Ben Everitt said: “With the Olympics coming up we wanted to inspire

children of all talents to discover the different ways to get involved in sport and fitness activity. It was a very hands on day; the children loved the interactive nature of the activities.”

Pupil Katie Skinner said: “It was a very good way of learning how to enjoy sport; it gave us an idea of how we could do better.”

Under 16s can discover their inner Wiggins at Go-Ride Games in August

Swindon Road Club will be welcoming youngsters who turn up and take part in a Come & Try Cyclo-Cross event in the event field at Lydiard Park on Thursday 16 August, 6.30pm.

The riders will receive a series of looking forward to this special event coaching sessions before having a which will attract lots of young ridgo on a purpose built cyclo-cross ers inspired by the performances of course to put their new found skills Team GB at the Olympics. to the test.

“There will be prizes and giveMark Chick, secretary of Swin- aways on offer so if you’re under don Road Club, is anticipating a 16 just bring a bike and a helmet to big turnout. He said: “We are really Lydiard Park and get signed up.”

Cycle festival for Meningitis

Meningitis UK is holding its first Castle Combe Cycling Festival on Sunday 26 August 2012 to celebrate all things bicycle for all the family and raise funds for the charity.

The action-packed day includes Meningitis UK is focused on findcycling events and activities, youth ing a vaccine to wipe out all forms racing, stunt bike displays, circuit of meningitis. Sadly, meningitis lap challenges and the popular and meningococcal septicaemia Severn Bridge Sportive. affect thousands of people across The sportive offers riders a 56 Britain every year and kills more mile or 100 mile (160km) route youngsters under five than any through beautiful countryside other infectious disease. before heading over the Severn Six families a week have to face Bridge into Wales. Each route will the sudden and distressing tragedy be comprehensively signed, have of losing a loved one to meningitis. well-stocked refreshment stations, For festival details call 01249 motorcycle outrider support and 782417 or see www.castlecombefirst aid cover. cyclingfestival.co.uk

See details of the Olympics on the Big Screen at Wharf Green on page 23

19-48 August 12.indd 30

19/07/2012 10:36

swindonlink.com • August 2012

PAINFUL FEET?

DO YOUR FEET NEED CARE AND ATTENTION?

Mrs Lesley Taylor

ROBERT S TAYLOR MCFHP MAFHP

For all your foot care needs: Pedicure, corns, calluses verrucas, thickened nails Nail infections Foot health checks and foot massage Home visit service

Call 01793 695302 Mob 07753 143621

31

MCFHP, MAFHP, MIIR, MAR

PODIATRY/CHIROPODY treatment in your own home

Corns, Calluses, Verrucas, Thick Nail or Ingrowing Toenails

Call Katie Boichat

Also Reflexology

HPC registered Podiatrist

07823 771675

Call Freephone 0808 108 8545 or 01793 849914

Give your feet the care and attention they deserve

Clinic at: 113 High Street Wootton Bassett

BSc (Hons) podiatry

Get healthy, stay healthy, with

HOMEOPATHY

Phone or visit the website for information

ALLERGY TESTING 150 foods and airborne irritants tested with instant results.

No needles, no blood tests Ruth Derham, PHSH RSHom 4 High Street, Purton

Tel: 01793 771820

www.purtonhomeopathy.co.uk

Are You In Pain? We Can Offer Effective, Affordable Treatment Get to the root of your problem:

Tel: (01793) 887801 www.shawchiropracticclinic.co.uk

IF YOU SUFFER FROM: • Backache & Leg Pain • Neck, Shoulder, Arm Pain • Head Pain • Numbness • Arthritic Pain • Sports Injury • Injury after Accident THEN YOU SHOULD CONSIDER CONSULTING A CHIROPRACTOR

SANDRA E. DAVIES D.C. Doctor of Chiropractic BCA Member • GCC Registered Member of the College of Chiropractors

FREE

SPINAL CHECKS

EVENING & SATURDAY APPOINTMENTS

5 Ramleaze House, Shaw Village Centre, Swindon SN5 5PY

Free consultation for Skin tag, Keratosis, Red Vein, Blood Spot, Milia and Mole removal Wide range of massages including Thai, Hot Stone and Hydro Massage OPI Manicures and Pedicures including OPI’s AXXIUM Soak-off Gel nails from £23

Full set of individual i-lash Designer Eyelash Extensions £65 Microdermabrasion facial 1 hour – first one £30 Hopi Ear Candling, Waxing, Vajazzling, Pamper Parties . . . and much much more!

Call today for a full brochure and prices

07584 599500

MONDAYS 5.30pm & 7.30pm St Johns Church, Thames Avenue, Haydon Wick,Swindon SN25 1QQ Consultant: Sharon 07841 119082 MONDAYS 7.30pm Brimble Hill School, Tapole Lane, Redhouse, Swindon SN25 2NB Consultant: Heather 07816 860840 TUESDAYS 6.30pm Abbey Meads Community School, Hugo Drive, Abbey Meads, Swindon, SN25 4GY. Consultant: Paula 07733 082579 WEDNESDAYS 5.30pm & 7.30pm St Francis School, Taw Hill, Swindon SN25 1UH Consultant: Heather 07816 860840 THURSDAYS 7.00pm Freshbrook Community Centre, Worsley Road, Freshbrook, Swindon SN5 8LY. Consultant: Jenny 07939 410805 THURSDAYS 9.30am, 11.30am, 5.30pm & 7.30pm St Johns Church, Thames Ave., Haydon Wick, Swindon SN25 1QQ. Consultant: Sharon 07841 119082 FRIDAYS 9.30am Community Room, St Francis School, Taw Hill, Swindon SN25 1UH Consultant: Heather 07816860840 SATURDAYS 9.30am Freshbrook Community Centre, Worsley Road, Freshbrook, Swindon SN5 8LY. Consultant: Lou 07784 098022

Fully licensed and insured. Based in North Swindon

19-48 August 12.indd 31

19/07/2012 10:37

32

swindonlink.com • August 2012

Summer fun at STFC

www.zumbainswindon.co.uk

Looking for fun, friendship and fitness?

ABSOLUTE BEGINNERS RUNNING COURSES In just 10 weeks we will help you run non-stop for 30 minutes (approx. 5km) INFORMATION AND REGISTRATION EVENING Tuesday 4th Sept, 7.30pm at Unit 8, Star West, Westmead Drive, SN5 7SW For more information call Clare on 07793 573487

Email: slinnallstars@hotmail.co.uk www.slinnallstars.co.uk Affiliated to England Athletics Qualified Running Coaches

Red Oaks School, Redhouse: Mon: 6.10pm - 7pm Zumba Wed: 6.30pm Zumba & 7.30pm Toning Gorse Hill Community Centre: ✪Mon: 12.15pm - 1pm Zumba Gold Sun: 7pm - 7.50pm Zumba Pinetrees Com Centre, Pinehurst: ✪Tues: 9.30am - 10.15am Zumba Gold Freshbrook Community Centre: Tues: 6pm - 6.50pm Zumba Sun: 6pm - 6.45pm Zumba Toning Greendown School, Grange Park: Tues: 7.20pm - 8.10pm Zumba Kathie & Terry: 0777 565 1566

Swindon Town Football in the Community Trust is organising its busiest ever summer programme with over 1,000 boys and girls of all abilities heading to the County Ground over the six weeks of the school holidays to attend development weeks.

The coaching weeks for 5 to 15 within a fun and safe environment. years olds are run over three to four Every participant will leave with days, with the main course in opera- a goody bag and there will be opportion on the first three days and the tunities to win prizes and to meet optional extra session on Fridays. members of the Town’s first team The action packed weeks are run squad, look around the County under four strands: mainstream; Ground and also get the chance to girls only; goalkeeper training play inside the unique Swindon and multi-sports inclusion. The Town inflatable arena. sessions enable children to make For details and to book call the new friends, develop their skills STFiC office on 01793 421303 and techniques whilst engaging www.stfitc.co.uk

Totally Divine Nails

♥

Tanning

♥

Lashes

78 Basepoint Business Centre, Rivermead Dr, Westlea, Swindon SN5 7EX

Offering a wealth of experience

♥ Teacher qualified, caring & reliable ♥ Competitive prices ♥ A wide range of approved products

Warm, friendly & relaxed

01793 602445

totallydivine.net

Catherine Wayte Primary School, above, finished runners up in the North section of the Swindon PSFA Bloor Homes League and went on to win the Shield competition in June, beating Millbrook Primary, below, in a tightly contested final.

THE CHIROPRACTIC HEALTH CENTRE CLARE DUNCAN-HAWES

FREE SPINAL HEALTH CHECK • NECK PAIN • BACK PAIN • HEADACHES • SPORTS INJURY • CAR ACCIDENT INJURIES

Free 20 minute consultation to assess if Chiropractic will benefit you.

Please call

01793 602454

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

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

19-48 August 12.indd 32

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

Registered with GCC

19/07/2012 10:39

swindonlink.com • August 2012

33

Under 9 and under 10 players needed by two clubs

Shaw FC Cubs, who recently competed at the Highworth Juniors 6s and won the most sporting side award, is looking for boys and girls to join two under 9s squads for the new season which begins in mid-August.

To qualify players must be entering school year 4 in September. Contact Simon Daykin on 07807 869842.

Shaw FC under 10 is also signing up boys or girls going into year 5 in September. Training takes place on Tuesdays 6pm. For details call Justin Mundy on 07428 517245.

Shaw FC runs teams from age 7 to under 16. For details contact Cherie Harley: cherieharley@talktalk.net Swindon Rangers under 9s train at Headlands Grove on Friday evenings, with matches played on Sundays.

Rangers are a Charter Standard Club with all coaches CRB checked and Level 1 qualified or undergoing the course. For details contact: Clint Ricketts on 07585 162655 or mail: clintricketts@talktalk.net

New look for academy teams Royal Wootton Bassett based estate agent and property managers Alan Hawkins has become one of the first sponsors of teams at the newly branded Lydiard Park Academy. New kit for the Key Stage 3 footballers sports the Alan Hawkins logo with the academy crest.

Below, Kevin Hawkins, centre, and Alan Hawkins presents players Oliver Mulraney, centre, and Jake Tyson with the shirts

Landlords!

Not happy with your current Letting Agent? Then why not change?

Does your current agent have your interest as their priority?

We offer: • Competitive rates • No hidden charges • Regular property inspections with reports • High Street office • Property advertising on Rightmove, Zoopla, Prime Location & many more • 6 day week viewings and evenings • Members of NALS, NAEA, The Property Ombudsman

855222

www.alanhawkins.co.uk

19-48 August 12.indd 33

19/07/2012 10:41

34

swindonlink.com • August 2012

The summer reading challenge is underway Youngsters looking for an interesting way of filling their summer holiday only have to join Swindon Libraries Story Lab to discover fascinating books.

Children who take part in the Summer Reading Challenge™

receive a three dimensional card and incentives to aim for as they read, with a certificate and medal for those who finish six books by 8 September.

Giving the challenge an Olympic twist, organisers are setting Swin-

don children the target of reading 12,000 books and there will be several stage incentives, such as taking part in a story trail at Swindon Museum and Art Gallery, and receiving vouchers for pitch and putt, crazy golf or ice-skating at

Link Centre.

During August library staff and volunteers will be on hand to help children win medals for reading, and an interactive Story Lab website links children with top authors and illustrators.

Taking to hill and dale for Guide Dogs in September

Puppy walker Tracey Williams from North Swindon is getting ready for a tough trek to raise money for Guide Dogs.

Together with husband Ashley, John Brant and Warren Farquhar, the team will be hiking 10k up and

down the Old Man of Coniston, followed by a 12k bike ride through Grizedale Forest, ending with a kayak crossing of Coniston Water - all within 10 hours.

Tracey, who is working with her

Janet’s Puppy Skool

Have fun teaching your dog good manners and behaviour at one of our friendly classes

3 Playskool for puppies 3 Adult beginners/improvers 3 Senior Skool/advanced classes 3 One to one advice & training 3 Fun agility workshops

second puppy, said: “Until recently my main exercise was walking Isca for an hour a day, but I have started to take training seriously.”

She explained that she became a puppy walker after loosing her sight temporarily a few years ago.”It’s a lovely way to volunteer.

You have to follow strict guide-

lines to ensure the puppy is learning about the world around them all the time. We attend a puppy class every week and meet a supervisor to test the dog so he or she meets a certain standard before moving to full guide dog training.

“It’s special when you speak to the owner of a working dog you’ve walked; to hear them say how much they love and rely on their guide dog is very rewarding.”

It costs £33,000 to train a guide Tracey with Isca and from left, John dog - £5,000 in the first year - all of Brant, Ashley Wil- which has to be met by fundraisliams and Warren ing. Help Tracey and her team via Farquhar justgiving.com/traceys-puppies

Could you do a blindfold abseil?

Swindon Guide Dogs for the Blind is holding an abseil at the County Ground on Sunday 7 October. Participants who must be over 14 have the option to try it blindfolded or in fancy dress. The booking fee is £20 and a minimum sponsorship of £80 is required. For more details contact Rachael Lee on 01793 828126 or mail: rach-tom@hotmail.co.uk

www.janetspuppyskool.co.uk APDT Member (01066)

Janet Garrett DipCAPBT Dip.dog.psy

Tel: 01793 727158

janet@janetspuppyskool.co.uk

New puppy or kitten?

It pays to become a member of our Pet Health Club Join during August and get your pet’s full vaccination course for the price of a booster, saving you up to £21 As well as this, becoming a Pet Health Club member means spreading the cost of your pet’s routine health care in manageable monthly payments.

Our Pet Health Club includes: 10% discount off flea and worm treatments 10% discount off annual vaccinations

Text message reminders for worming and vaccinations

10% discount off all retail products

Quarterly newsletters with our latest special offers

10% discount off all food including Hills prescription food

And new puppies can take advantage of up to three FREE puppy socialisation classes, and our unique Youth Club service throughout their first year.

Up to £40 discount on neutering Three free nursing clinics per year

62-64 Purton Road Swindon SN2 2LZ (end of Akers Way)

Visit our website, contact the clinic or come in and talk to us for more information.

Tel: 01793 526780

Open: Monday to Friday 9am-6.30pm Saturday 9am-12noon

www.thameswoodvets.co.uk 19-48 August 12.indd 34

19/07/2012 12:26

swindonlink.com • August 2012 Advertising Feature

Vet launches new approach to pet care

TV’s most popular vet Joe Inglis - well-known for his roles in Vets in Practice, The One Show and The Wright Stuff - is opening a brand new hi-tech veterinary practice in West Swindon on 19 August.

He is heading up a team of veterinary experts who share his vision of combining competitively priced pet care and high levels of customer contact.

The state-of-the-art practice at Callenders Industrial Estate, close to Homebase at Bridgemead, will feature a glass fronted clinical area with a viewing gallery. Pet owners will be kept in touch with the practice via live internet streamJoe, looking forward to meeting Swindon pet ing, online pet medical owners. Photo: Richard Wintle www.calyxpix.com records and flexible discounted booking via the web site, video feeds of treatments, case including making payments online. studies and Q&A sessions.

Joe says: “Our exciting new If pets have to be left at the pracconcept in animal welfare will far tice staff will keep in touch with exceed anything done in the in- owners by uploading updates and dustry before. We aim to transform images using iPads. the way in which vets currently However Joe says the technology practice, improve the education of should only be seen as an aid to pet owners, and put the focus on better pet care. ”We’re passionate supporting the customer.” about being transparent in our Joe and his team will also work whilst providing top-quality be broadcasting internationally yet affordable treatment.” through the Vet’s Klinic online TV See details of the opening date in channel which will include live the advert below.

35

Action kids 1 Before she left office as mayor in May, one of Ray Ballman’s final appointments was to present Pride of Swindon certificates to nominees unable to attend the official ceremony at Steam in April.

Tree trekking fun

in the summer holidays at the Jungle Parc High Ropes Course in Lydiard Country Park Over 60 different activities for 4 years up to 12 (min height 105m)

She is pictured with Melissa Butler who was invited to the Civic Offices to receive her reward for raising £260 for youth support and mentoring service SMASH and the Prospect Hospice by climbing Mount Snowden, Scarfell Pike and Ben Nevis.

The active 11 year old from Westlea is now developing her skills as a scuba diver and wants to learn underwater photography.

Action kids 2 The Jungle Parc aerial trekking routes at Lydiard Park are an essential activity in the summer holiday.

See bit.ly/swindonjungle

Book online at www.jungleparc.co.uk Call: 0844 879 4378 Perfect in rain or shine

Revolutionary new veterinary practice coming to Swindon!

“I’d love to see you at our public open day on Sunday 19th August, 11am - 4pm.”

State-of-the-art care at state-of-your-wallet prices.

www.vetsklinic.co.uk ONLINE

BOOKING

19-48 August 12.indd 35

AFFORDABLE

PRICING

TOP QUALITY

CARE

OPEN & HONEST

MEDICAL RECORDS

ONLINE

T: 0845 901 1975 E: contact@vetsklinic.co.uk A: Vet’s Klinic, Unit 2, Callenders Industrial Estate, Swindon, SN5 7YW

19/07/2012 10:44

36

swindonlink.com • August 2012

GAZEBO LANDSCAPING

GENERAL GARDEN MAINTENANCE & CONSTRUCTION

• •

•

• •

Fencing - closeboard, panels etc.

Drives & patios - slabs, concrete, shingle Patio cleaning, grass cutting, gardens tidied up NO Turfing, grass seeding VAT Ponds & pergolas

Tel: 07711 253508 freshwind@blackberry.orange.co.uk

Brand New Gardens Hard Landscape and Garden Maintenance Professional, reliable and friendly service

Children’s treasure hunt at steam railway - and the station is not difficult to find

Swindon & Cricklade Railway holds a children’s treasure hunt on 11 and 12 August when youngsters can search for engine cut-outs around Blunsdon Station.

The volunteers who run the on Saturday and Sunday railway are keen for everybody to when visitors can park know that it is open throughout the on the right hand side of summer holiday whilst reconstruc- Tadpole Lane. tion of the adjacent bridge over the In August one of the River Ray is carried out.

Great Western Railway’s Until mid-September vehicle hardest working locos access is off the B4553 from West will be based at Blunsdon Swindon to Purton. The station Station. can be reached via a temporary Built in Swindon footbridge across the river from Works in 1927, 2-6-2 Tadpole Lane in North Swindon. ‘Prairie’ tank engine However there is no parking except 5521 is making a homecoming trip. kia showing off Swindon’s heritage.

Having spent most of its work5521 will be in steam at Blunsdon ing life on branch lines in the West Station on 12, 18, 25, 26, 27 August Country, until withdrawal from and there is opportunity to drive British Railways in April 1962, the this historic locomotive. engine has continued to operate in For details contact 01793 771615 preservation. From 2007 to 2009 it or mail: scr@gmx.co.uk toured Poland, Hungary, and Slova- www.swindon-cricklade-railway.org Lawn & Hedge Cutting

Maintenance General Garden Tidy Patios • Turfing Give your garden a makeover Call John Dowell on 07892 436198 or 01793 747534 j.dowell@live.co.uk

Fencing • Decking • Patios Lawn cutting • Garden design Plant pruning and shaping Free quotes & advice. No job too small

Call Steven Brander on: 07949 896349 01793 874403

Manor Garden Centre Cheney Manor, Swindon 01793 526691 Open 7 days a week SPEC IA OFFE L RS

Quality TGB garden buildings for any situation Bespoke sizes available Base laying & installation available

www.conservatorycentres.co.uk

Ride the train south to Taw Valley Halt on August Bank Holiday weekend Swindon & Cricklade Society volunteers have been working hard to lay new railway track to the edge of Mouldon Hill Country Park and had hoped to open a new southern station called Taw Valley Halt in time for the Bank Holiday weekend.

However technical problems have prevented this. Instead throughout the weekend, from 25 to 27 August, trains will take visitors boarding at Blunsdon Station south past Oakhurst and Thamesdown Drive and back.

See www.swindon-cricklade-railway.org for details

Take a look at the lagoons

Wiltshire Wildlife Trust is offering you the chance to visit a surprising and almost secret wildlife sanctuary - barely a mile from Swindon town centre.

Join Simon Wicks and Gordon and songbirds populate the reserve.

Shaw, WWT volunteer wardens, Grass snakes, slow worms, voles who are leading guided tours of and deer are also on the reserve and the Swindon Lagoons Reserve on your tour may include sightings of Saturdays 25 August and 22 Sep- these as well. tember, 10am.

Access is via a gate off the River This hidden gem, not normally Ray Parkway cycle route opposite open to the public, is located at the Shaw Forest Park. northern end of Thames Water’s Booking is essential as numbers works at Barnfield and contains are limited to a maximum of 12. some twenty lagoons, many of Call Gordon Shaw on 01793 616558 them developed as bird sanctuar- to book a place. Children under 16 ies over the last 25 years. A large must be accompanied by an adult variety of wildfowl, herons, egrets but dogs are not permitted on site.

Win tickets to Tree Fest

Westonbirt Arboretum’s treefest from Saturday 25 to Monday 27 August, 10am to 5pm, offers tree-mendous family activities, carvers creating big play trail pieces, live music, delicious food and cooking demonstrations, woodworkers and over 100 craft exhibitors.

Kids go free; advance tickets for adults are £10 each and £8 per concession from www.forestry.gov.uk/westonbirt-treefest.

Win free entry: We have two pairs of adult day passes to enable a family of 4 to enter free. Tell us in which county Westonbirt is located by 10 August. Send your entry to the address on page 4.

19-48 August 12.indd 36

20/07/2012 14:32

swindonlink.com • August 2012

Chelworth Landscapes

Fencing & Garden Maintenance

• Fencing and gates

Closeboard, trellis, panels,

picket, chainlink, security etc

• Landscaping

Shingle, paving, water features, turfing and planting

• Garden maintenance

Grasscutting, tree and shrub pruning, clearance etc.

For free quotation phone (01793) 702029

www.chelworthlandscapes.co.uk

CLIFF WHITEWAY SERVICES For all your home & garden needs Patios Decking Paths Turfing Walling Fencing Driveways For a free quote call Cliff on

Tel: 01793 731418 Mobile: 07808 355487

Established locally for over 8 years References available

Garden Doctors

David Hawkins Tree Surgeon ALL TYPES OF TREE SERVICES Hedge cutting Stump grinding Fruit tree pruning

LANDSCAPES LTD

Established in 1994, we have completed over 1500 Gardens & Driveways With an enviable reputation for reliable, skilled work borne out by the many recommendations received See photos & testimonials at

Fully insured Free estimates 20 years experience

www.swindonlandscaping.co.uk Contact James Cherry for free & friendly advice

01793 976084 07967 594707

01793 526571 Mob: 07760127139

david.hawkins100@hotmail.co.uk

Block paving, patios, fencing, turfing etc

LANDSERVE

Professional care for your garden Grass cutting - regular maintenance Landscaping - Patios & Paving - repairs & cleaning Decking Hedge cutting & pruning

No Job Too Small. All works insured

Tel: 01793 486507 Mob: 077382 98004

willslatergardencare@hotmail.com

on 01793 703306 or Mobile 07771 956294

swindon@bartlettuk.com www.bartlett.com

01793 213 579

uR e!

IT o ebSIT S I Vew w n

PROFESSIONAL TREE SURGEONS

• Pruning and Shaping • Felling and Removal • Hedge Cutting • Stump Grinding • Tree Planting

01793 790210 07971 566880 Email: treeman@iwalding.freeserve.co.uk

For a professional and affordable service, free consultation and written quotation

Tel: 01793 878062 or 07866 523898

35 Spencer Close, West Swindon

❖ Fences, gates & sheds supplied and erected ❖ Landscaping ❖ Trees pruned and felled ❖ Rubbish removed ❖ Patios and shingle laid ❖ Wood chip & compost supplied ❖ Turfing and grass cutting ❖ And all aspects of garden

maintenance

Tel: 01793 875451 or 07940 247152 www.freethfencingandgardenservicesltd.com

Blackwood JillGarden Magic Royal Horticultural Society Silver Medal

Comprehensive service Qualified staff Fully insured

Free quotations and advice Call Ian Walding (N.C.Hort N.D.Arb)

19-48 August 12.indd 37

Tree & Shrub Pruning | Planting Tree Removal | Hedge Cutting Woodland Management Disease & Insect Control For a free quote please contact your local arborist Tara Fraser

HERITAGE TREE CARE

❐ Block Paving ❐ Landscaping ❐ Fencing ❐ Decorative Stone ❐ General Maintenance

EST. 1990

Call Martin Emery MI Hort. for free quotation

D.A. DRIVEWAYS & PATIOS

FREETH FENCING & GARDEN SERVICES LTD

Garden Maintenance & Landscaping

Lawn & garden maintenance Hedge cutting & planting Tree planting & pruning Weeding & much more

37

• All Traditonal Fencing • Gates • Decking • Sheds • Landscaping • Pergolas • Timber supplies • Insurance Repairs • Planters

Call today for a free quote

01793 854943 or 07809075792 www.lindenfencing.co.uk

PROFESSIONAL DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION AND LANDSCAPING SERVICE

For a free consultation in the Swindon area call Jill Blackwood on:

Mobile: 07951 014119

or e-mail: gillian.blackwood@ntlworld com www.jillblackwoodgardendesign.co.uk

19/07/2012 10:50

38

swindonlink.com • August 2012

FIAT & ALFA ROMEO ✶ All cars welcome ✶ cam belt replacement ✶ engine & gearbox repairs & rebuilds ✶ electrical fault code reading ✶ MOT repairs ✶ vehicle sales ✶ servicing to light commercials

Open 8.30am - 5.30pm

Call for friendly advice, reliable service & quotes. All major credit & debit cards

OPTIMA MOTORS Tel: (01793) 840667

39A Station Road, Wootton Bassett

Car dealers attracted to town’s western by-pass

More motor dealerships will soon be located along Great Western Way and Mead Way in West Swindon.

The Honda, Mini, Ferrari, Maserati, Peugeot and Kia showrooms on Great Western Way have been joined by an Audi outlet on the Delta Business Park, close to the motor park off Paddington Drive.

On Mead Way Fish Brothers is building NisUp close to the Audi showroom at Delta san and Skoda showrooms and service facilities, Opposite, on the edge of Shaw next to the DVLA driver test centre. Community Forest park, TH White One roundabout to the south is the have received permission to build a existing Skurray’s Vauxhall, Chev- showroom with an entrance off the rolet and Saab showroom. park access road.

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

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

CALL GRAHAM ON (01793) 873045 or 07867 556350

SUMMER SPECIALS

£50 off adult £30 off child cycles

MANY MORE MODELS AVAILABLE Pop in or give us a call on Tel: 01793 574800 email: sale@artdeans.co.uk 207 Rodbourne Road, Swindon, SN2 2AA Sales, servicing, parts & accessories for all makes of motorcycle & scooter

19-48 August 12.indd 38

19/07/2012 17:26

swindonlink.com • August 2012

Nick brews up Pinehurst scrumpy

Cider entrepreneur Nick Howard began collecting and pressing apples in the back room of his Pinehurst home a couple of years ago and has seen production soar, accompanied by positive comments.

Explaining how his cider business blossomed, Nick said: “Last year I made about 200 litres, but this year I’ve done about 6,000, using over 100 varieties of apples collected from trees in people’s gardens and from small-scale orchards that aren’t large enough to sustain the big producers.”

For a capital investment of about £6,000, half of which he has already recouped in sales, Nick has set up a press, apple mill, pasteuriser and bottling Nick, promoting his cider after Pinehurst’s equipment in his house, where famous feature. Photo: Richard Wintle he produces sweet, medium and www.calyxpix.com dry cider recipes.

“I made most of my sales at the could say it has a more Swindonian Bath and West Show where I and flavour to it.” a couple of mates did a hog roast.

Nick is keen to hear from anyone Now I’m looking at selling to pubs, who has an apple tree or two and at markets and events,” he said. who regularly watches the apples Cider connoisseurs have de- fall and rot away. He said: “I’d be scribed Nick’s brew as being quite delighted to come and take apples different to the West Country style, off people’s hands in return for a in that it is lighter, with a more bottle of the next vintage.” delicate taste.

Contact him about apples to “A few non-cider drinkers bought spare, or if you are interested in some at a show recently and it felt stocking Circle Cider in your pub good to be offering something or bar: circlecider@gmail.com slightly different and not follow- • Circle Cider channel on YouTube ing the crowd,” he added. “You • Twitter: @CircleCider

WE REPAIR Steamed-Up Windows, Broken Hinges Handles - Locks

J’s Electrical ✭ Extra sockets and lights ✭ Shower and cooker installation ✭ Fuse board replacement ✭ Complete re-wiring ✭ Security lighting ✭ P.A.T. testing ✭ 24 hours

39

Looking for a business you can trust?

THEN LOOK NO FURTHER!

NO JOB TOO SMALL

A new era for consumers and business is only a click away

Mobile: 07985 195893 Tel: 01793 320447

If you have a business and you are interested in joining the scheme, call Trading Standards

Also general plumbing, tiling & plastering

www.buywithconfidence.gov.uk

01793 466155

KITCHEN MAKEOVER Are your kitchen cabinets OK but the door and drawer fronts are looking a little tired?

Why not consider replacing them? With a new worktop to match, you could achieve the look of a new stylish kitchen, saving you time, money and a lot of upheaval.

• Complete made to measure kitchens and bedrooms also available.

• Many superb styles and finishes to choose from.

Call Peter Galbraith on

01793 741234

www.petergalbraith.co.uk

NO CALL OUT CHARGE! NO MINIMUM CHARGE!

UNITS 19-20 KENDRICK INDUSTRIAL ESTATE SWINDON WILTS SN2 2DU

SAMPLE PRICE LIST:

TEL: 01793 536784

Failed Sealed Units from only £25 inc fitting & VAT Replacement Handles from £35 inc fitting & VAT Replacement Hinges from £55 inc fitting & VAT Replacement Locking systems from £60 inc fitting & VAT See clearer, feel warmer, get better protected

Free survey:0800 61 22 943 email: info@windowgeeks.co.uk www.windowgeeks.co.uk Our glass comes with a 10 year guarantee

19-48 August 12.indd 39

SANSUM SAND & GRAVEL SUPPLY TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC AND TRADE CUSTOMERS

BRICKS, CONCRETE BLOCKS, CELCON BLOCKS, BLOCK PAVING, PATIO SLABS, SAND, GRAVEL, TOP SOIL, BARK, CANTABURY SPAR, LANDSCAPE FABRIC, DRAINAGE CHANNELS, BUILDING CHEMICALS, ROCK SALT AND CEMENT

www.sansums.co.uk 19/07/2012 12:28

40

MILESTONE Building Services

Complete Property Renovations & Alterations Kitchens / Bathroom Tiling / Flooring Brickwork / Blockwork Paving / Patios Fencing / Decking & Ground Works Carpentry / Plumbing All Building Works Undertaken No job too small • Free estimates Contact: Dean Scanlon Telephone: 01793 422032 Mobile: 077 8968 1536

HOUSEHOLD MAINTENANCE • Kitchen/bathroom upgrades • Painting and decorating • Electrical fittings replaced • Laminate flooring • Door hanging • Locks • Tiling • Leaking taps • Flat pack furniture • Fencing • Garden maintenance • No job too small & much more John Woodham

Phone: 01793 870040 Mob: 07765 002949

ASHDOWN

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

01793 670115 or 0784 182 6390 for a Free Estimate

Doctor Glass

BATHROOMS & KITCHENS

Design to Installation

repairs & replaces cracked, broken or misted double glazed windows.

• PLUMBING • CARPENTRY • TILING • ELECTRICS

All Work Guaranteed. Quality Finish And Attention To Detail Is Assured.

No Job Too Small

Also hinges and locks.

Call Mark: 01793 887766 Mob: 07979 267757

Call: 01793 854448 or 07976 219671

www.ashdownbk.co.uk

FREE DESIGN CONSULTATION & ESTIMATE

West Swindon Plumbing

• All aspects of Heating and Plumbing undertaken • Boiler and central heating installations and repairs • Gas safety certificates • Bathroom design & installation • General repairs and servicing • No VAT on labour

Haydon Wick Heating Services

07766 565458 01793 432512

Tel: 01793 748333 Mob: 07733897039

For a FREE no obligation quote call now on 07874 021004 or 01793 701797

19-48 August 12.indd 40

All heating and plumbing works undertaken

• Full central heating systems • Boiler changes / services and repairs • Power flushing • Full bathroom / ensuite installations • General plumbing works • Free quotes and realistic prices

hwheating@googlemail.com

Fitted Kitchens Bathrooms & Bedrooms Tiling & Worktops Laminate Flooring Skirtings & Architraves Dados & Coving Doors & Decking And much more

Specialists in DRIVEWAYS BLOCK PAVING PATIOS WALLS

Call 01793 731979 or 07979 865620

A local reliable & friendly service

217129

24 YEARS EXPERIENCE Installation & Servicing NG & LPG ✓ Boiler & System Upgrades ✓ Breakdown & Maintenance ✓ Bathrooms, Showers & Wet Rooms ✓ Power Flushing / Descaling ✓ DIY Assisted Projects ✓

For ALL your plumbing, heating & gas requirements call Assured on

01793 700 820 www.assured-plumbing.co.uk Electrician

Call Charlie for a free no obligation quote on all your plumbing needs Covering Swindon and surrounding areas No job too small from leaking taps, dripping overflows, broken toilets, outside taps, radiators, pumps, emersion heaters to complete bathrooms.

All at competitive rates.

For reliability and value for money call Simon on: 07798 684215 or 01793 829526

J.E.B. CONTRACTORS uuu

Interior and exterior decorating carried out to a high standard including: • Painting • Wallpapering • Coving • Tiling • General Maintenance NO JOB TOO SMALL

For a prompt friendly professional service

Telephone: 875354 Mobile: 07970 483393

Fuse board upgrade Rewiring New sockets Lighting Cooker & Shower installations No job too small Free quotations e-mail: iain@dixiain.co.uk

T: 01793 851374 M: 07860 689695

Part P Approved Contractor

dixiainltd

Building/Groundworks & Hard Landscaping Extensions, Garage & Loft Conversions Driveways & Patios All building work undertaken All work guaranteed, FREE quote and advice

Mob: 07956 301957 Tel: 01793 348597

www.haynesconstruction.org.uk

19/07/2012 12:29

41

ALL SEASONS 24 HR GLUE IT + PLUMBING & HEATING SERVICES

Specialists in Design, supply & installation of bespoke bathrooms Complete service Working in conjunction with

TileSure

Call Tony on: Tel: 01793 521856 or Mobile: 07770 615154 Free quotations All work guaranteed

SPECIALIST IN HOME IMPROVEMENTS & REPAIR

+ Garden maintenance and landscaping + Wood & laminate flooring + Loft & garage conversions + Painting & decorating + General building work + Bathroom installation

Tel: 01793 434184 07872 946986

Qualified tradesman, 28 years experience

Semi-retired Plumber 24hr emergency call out

swindon-gms@live.co.uk

MAKE YOUR HOUSE A HOME \

WILLING & ABLE

PROPERTY SERVICES

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

Tel: 01793 324116 Mob: 07788 621772

Home Improvement Specialist

DL Property Services

SCREW IT

• Kitchen & bathroom installations • Artex covered smooth • Plastering ceilings & walls • Stud partition walls • Wall & floor tiling • Laminate & wood floor installation • UPVC windows & doors • Full house refurbishments Free estimates. Quality service guaranteed Call David on 07796 262942 or 01793 226071 dlpropertyservices@yahoo.co.uk

• Plumbing and heating • Landlord safety checks & system upgrades • Kitchens & bathrooms • Power flushing and water softeners • Plastering and rendering • All interior & exterior maintenance work undertaken All work planned, scheduled & guaranteed

www.willingandablepropertyservices.co.uk

k Kitchen fitting k Real wood and laminate flooring k Fitted wardrobes k 15 years experience

Call 01793 514069 or 07885 972172 e: ellisj10@sky.com www.delliscarpentry.co.uk

RETIRED TRADES ASSOCIATES

PB Plastering & Bricklaying

Electrical (Part P registered) Plumbing Painting & Decorating Tiling • Plastering Carpentry • Cabinet Making

General Building Services Including Extensions Loft Conversions Patios & Fencing Wall & Floor Tiling Block Paving Painting & Decorating

• Reliable • Trustworthy • Affordable

Call Pete

Call Andrew on 07718 022201

Northway Heating & Plumbing

TILEfix

Tel: 01793 495364 Mob: 07767 242124 Email: tilefix4u@aol.com

northwayheating.co.uk sales@northwayheating.co.uk

www.boundary-windows.co.uk

Advert.indd 1

Call Darren on 07980 241109 www.crannistech.co.uk

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

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

Free Quotation / No Obligation

SWINDON 01793 341546 MOBILE 07799 118283

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

for a free quotation to get them fixed and grouted with the minimum of fuss

07795 166851 01793 728014

Large range of styles available Range to suit all budgets and tastes High Security Locks The highest attention to detail 10 Year Guarantees • Bi-Fold Doors Local Family Run Business Sash Box Windows - UPVC / FENSA Timber Replaced or Repaired Registered Company

ELECTRICIAN

Then call

Gas Safe Registered

• Windows • Conservatories • Doors • Fascias • Guttering

Tel: 01793 612499 Mob: 07790 283186

Want your wall or floor tiles fitted?

All aspects of heating and plumbing work undertaken

Providing High Quality Windows and Doors to Swindon for over 20 years

19-48 August 12.indd 41

k Door hanging

www.earthmovingservices.co.uk

B O U N DA RY WINDOWS

• • • • • • •

For all your carpentry needs

• Garden/site shaping, leveling, clearance • Footings, trenches & ditches excavated • Hardcore sub-bases & roadways/tracks • Concrete, tarmac, hedge & stump removal • Soil screening/debris removal • Micro excavator, minimum access width required: 29” (730mm) C.P.C.S Licensed • Fully Insured Call Steve to discuss your needs and receive a free estimate Tel: 01793 848708 or 07967 341567

For friendly advice call

01793 324026 or 07533 749104

D E Carpentry

Earthmoving Services

01793 878636

T.

523887

Power Flus hing Agent

www.CentraHeat.co.uk

CentraHeat.co.uk

www.

07739 357617

M.

02/02/2011 09:58 19/07/2012 10:58

42

ADVERTISING WITH IMPACT

BATHROOMS AND KITCHENS

BATHROOMS

MJP Home Creations Creation Born Of Perfection

Specialists in kitchens bathrooms and wetrooms

Design and installation, plastering, plumbing, electrics, underfloor heating and tiling

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

Call 01793 602540 for details

BUILDING SERVICES

CARPENTRY

Galaxy Construction Ltd

J S Property Services

4 4 4 4 4 4 4

Extensions Loft conversions Conservatories Garage conversions Garden walls & patios Block paved driveways Plastering & coving

For a free quote call Leighton on 01793 813438 or 07917 208094

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

01793 321981 07775 840236

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

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

ELECTRICIAN SAFE & SHAW

ELECTRICAL SERVICES ✓ ✓ ✓

✓ ✓ ✓

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

Please call Paul Eastham on 07769 883717

KITCHEN & BATHROOM SERVICES ALL KITCHENS and BATHROOMS INSTALLED • Free survey • Building work • Plastering • Tiling and worktops • Electrics and plumbing • Wooden flooring • All types of worktops fitted including granite

For a complete professional service contact:

STEVE GEORGE

J&R Carpentry Services

❍ Fitted bedrooms and kitchens ❍ Replacement doors & staircases ❍ Laminate floors ❍ Household repairs and general maintenance ❍ Decking - supplied and fitted

Free no obligation quotes

Kevin Cook Tel: 814833 or 07776 142981

INTERIOR H EXTERIOR WALLPAPERING H COVING H

H

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

Call Stuart on 01793 727659 or 07809 368051

RJ Pearce Plumbing & Heating Ltd Over 20 years experience in plumbing & heating work • Central heating • Bathrooms & showers • Competitive rates

7 YEAR GUARANTEE

on Worcester Bosch Cdi, Ri and Si boilers until the end of 2012

• All work guaranteed • No job too small

Accredited Installer

For further details call Richard on 01793 879156 or 07747 723606

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

Please contact Brian Jones

APPROVED

DECORATOR

HEATING & PLUMBING

All areas of Plastering, Decorating and Refurbishment undertaken

Tel: 874480 Mobile: 07860 760364 30 years experienced tradesman

August 12 Repair & Improv.indd 42

CARPENTRY

Mobile: 07976 572905 Home: 01793 725834

Professional, reliable and friendly service

203455

PLUMBING For all your heating & bathroom needs • Full Central Heating & Upgrades • Boiler Replacements A Grade • Repairs & Servicing • All Plumbing Work Undertaken • Complete Bathrooms From Taps to Tiles • Landlord Safety Checks • Power Flushing • 24 Hour Call Out Service

Call Steve now on 07708 135420 or 01793 827372

522404

20/07/2012 09:47

43

❉ Quality bathroom suites

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

Free estimates

01793 876600 07748 964433

Approved Plumber

mjplumbing64@gmail.com

DECORATOR

DECORATOR

TREVOR WYSE

A CHANGE OF COLOUR

Not a ‘Jack of all trades’, just a ‘master of one’

PAINTING AND DECORATING

High class painter & decorator with 35 years experience

✓ Domestic, commercial & letting ✓ Specialist in insurance claims & DIY 'rescues’ ✓ Competitive rates (no VAT) ✓ Excellent references ✓ Registered and recommended by the Painting & Decorating Association ✓ Age UK Registered ✓ Full public liability insurance

Tel: 07976 885203 or 01793 723023

email: trevorwyse@btinternet.com

Experienced in all aspects of interior and exterior decorating

the place for quality and value Brighten up your home for Summer with a rainbow of colours!

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

Tel: 01793 434584

DECORATOR & CARPENTRY • Interior/exterior painting and decorating • Wallpaper • Tiling • Coving

• Laminate flooring

• Doors & skirting

replacement

• Kitchen • Bathroom

internal alterations No job too small • Rooms left tidy daily Free no obligation 24 hour quotations

www.trevorwyse.com

Free advice and quotations contact Darryl Bevan on 01793 497461 or 07919 671307

HEATING & PLUMBING

HEATING & PLUMBING

HOME MAINTENANCE

Quality Plumbing & Heating

G R SERVICES

Est. 30 years

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

Plumbing & Heating Services 30 years plumbing & heating experience British Gas trained

tCentral heating installations tAll Plumbing work undertaken tServicing & repairs tBathroom Installations All at competitive rates

Alec McKay Tel: 01793 873697 Mobile: 07963 953439

E-mail: alecmckay@sky.com

215153

ROOFING HOUSEMARTIN The Roofing Specialist

● Felt roofing ● Asphalt roofing ● Sheet roofing ● Tiling ● Slating ● Single Ply ● Fascia ● Guttering ❇❇❇

Call Neil on 01793 700542 07725 028776

August 12 Repair & Improv.indd 43

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

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

TILING

TileSure

CERAMIC TILING Walls & floors Bathrooms, kitchens & conservatories Under floor heating fitted Complete bathroom fitting in conjunction with ALL SEASONS 24 HR PLUMBING & HEATING SERVICES

QUALITY FINISH Call Maurice on 01793 349704 or 07904 142692

Call Andy: 01793 729354

or 07900 835116

Call Glen on: 01793 487450 07774 841879

email: grservices@hotmail.co.uk

www.grservicesswindon.co.uk

TILING

Bathroom suites and kitchens fitted

UPVC windows & doors Conservatories, fascias and guttering Roofing & building maintenance Painting, decorating, ceramic tiling Telephone/fax: 01793 874807

DECORATOR FREE ESTIMATES

De cor ato r

darrenbakerstewart@rocketmail.com www.stylishbathrooms.biz

& Heating

INTERIOR & EXTERIOR REDUCTIONS FOR OAPs

ter &

01793 320773 07779 006360

Paul Rhind

Plumbing

ain

The complete package in bathroom installation including wall and floor tiling, underfloor heating and plumbing.

All work guaranteed with references available Attention to detail and finish our priority For free friendly estimate please contact DARREN BAKER-STEWART on

BUILDING SERVICES

Call 01793 334823 or 07788 572043

EP

Stylish Bathrooms

BLINDS

ID

BATHROOMS

PR

BATHROOMS

HOME MAINTENANCE Services

(Household Maintenance) Handyman

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

For a free no obligation quote call Gary on

Mobile: 07764 511933 or Tel: 01793 879069

TILING

GILES BROS CERAMIC TILING FLOOR & WALL SPECIALISTS

TILING WALL & FLOOR SPECIALIST

Free Quotes Call Lee on 0771 8102 921

Please call Leon for a free quote

Call Mike on 0778 8444 084 or 01793 520526

Email: leon.jack@hotmail.co.uk WOOTTON BASSETT TILE & STONE APPROVED FITTER

TEL: 01793 854149 MOB: 07919 255673

20/07/2012 09:52

44

ACCOUNTANCY S J BAKER ACCOUNTING LTD CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS

S J BAKER FCCA

Self Assessments Limited company set up Contractor and Company Accounts Partnership and Sole Trader Accounts Corporation Tax Bookkeeping and Payroll * FIXED FEES * NO VAT * * FREE CONSULTATION * * AVAILABLE EVENINGS AND WEEKENDS *

TELEPHONE: 01793 495559 MOBILE: 07717 752116

email: info@sjbakeraccounting.co.uk

ACCOUNTANCY Lynette White MAAT Accounting Services 17 YEARS EXPERIENCE Book keeping - Sage Line 50 VAT Returns Payroll Sole Trader & Ltd Co Accounts Tax Returns Personal service for small businesses Competitive prices

Telephone: 01793 521020 Mobile: 07877 950625 Email: lynettewhite48@uwclub.net Lynette White is licensed and regulated by the AAT under licence number 5014

BOOK-KEEPING

CARPET CLEANING

Can’t face doing the books after a hard day’s work?

Abacus Cleaning Services

Call Leonard Fuller, A.I.C.B, qualified bookkeeper with over 20 years’ experience.

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

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.abacuscleaningswindon.co.uk

COMPUTER SUPPORT COMPUTER SUPPORT Computer problems?

Let us help

CJD

ACCOUNTANCY LTD

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

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

www.cjd-accountancy.co.uk

CARPET CLEANING

CARPET CLEANING

Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Swindon

The Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Specialist

h Domestic and Commercial h End of Tenancy Cleaning h Stain Removal h Hard Floor Cleaning & Sealing h Quality Products Used h Quick Drying h Free Competitive Quote h Fully Insured

Mobile: 07506 740921 www.procleancleaningservices.co.uk

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

GARAGE DOORS

Maxwell House, Maxwell Street, Swindon SN1 5DR Tel: (01793) 618499

or 513796 swindondoorservices@ btinternet.com

LOCKSMITH

OVEN CLEANING

KEY CUTTING KEY CUTTING KEY CUTTING

Ovens, ranges, agas, hobs extractors and microwaves

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

Genuine 24hr service

August 12 Service Sector.indd 56

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

Showroom:

Tel: 01793 325685

Call 01793 602540 for details

ACCOUNTANCY

Installation & Repairs New Doors • Automation No Obligation Quotes Est. 1981

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

ADVERTISING WITH IMPACT

ACCOUNTANCY

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

KEY CUTTING KEY CUTTING KEY CUTTING

Fixed pricing examples Single Oven £35 - Range £55 No hidden extras, includes racks, doors, glass 20 years experience No toxic chemicals in your home Reliable & Friendly Free Quotation To book your oven clean call

01793 733822 or email:

oven@enlan.co.uk

www.garagedoorsupplies.co.uk

OVEN CLEANING

SWINDON OVEN CLEANING

The Domestic Oven Cleaning Service

To book your oven clean call Maggie on 01793 520362 We use caustic free cleaning products with a fresh solution every time Hobs, extractors and microwaves also undertaken

20/07/2012 09:26

45

AERIAL SERVICES

AERIAL SERVICES

Aerials & Satellite Systems

Aerial Solutions

Chris Payne ✭ ✭ ✭ ✭

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

• Does your picture freeze and break up?

• Would you like TV points in other rooms?

• Do you want Freesat or Sky installed?

Then contact your local aerial and satellite installers

01793 744957

50% off digital aerials

Tel: 01793 700078 Mobile: 07904 330724

CLEANING THE CLEANING & IRONING SERVICE House cleans from £16 per house.

Around £26 for a 4 bed.

Weekly, fortnightly or monthly cleans.

One-off Spring cleans Ironing £16 per basket, collected and returned the next day

Call 01793 875665 07780625244

GARAGE DOORS

CLEANING

IRONING

• Collection and return service free of charge • 7 days a week • No minimum order policy • All fulfilled in my own clean and smoke free home Fast, reliable and affordable service! £15 per basket

Please call 07817 662448 to get your ironing done today!

WATER SOFTENERS

FACT: Hard water damages your home!

Washing machines, cookers, microwaves etc.

Sorry no fridges or freezers Scrap cars collected FREE of charge

Contact us for expert advice about water softeners...

01793 613396 07899 018167

Water Softeners • Rental scheme Drinking Water Systems • Salt

Registered waste carrier

August 12 Service Sector.indd 57

• Dishwashers • Dryers • Vacuum Cleaners Over 30 year’s experience

‘Nick’ll Fix It’

Call 07963 131429

e.mail: haleskills@gmail.com

CLEARANCE

Guaranteed repairs to all makes of domestic appliances Same day/next day service

Tel: 01793 469300

CLEARANCE

Skips are never this cheap View our prices online • House clearance • Rubbish removal • Sofas and furniture • Shed removal • Confidential waste

0800 6899988 or 01793 434600

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

Tel 01793 878176 Email enquiries@dimensions.org.uk www.dimensions.org.uk

All metals removed FREE of charge

• Cookers

Regular cleans, Spring cleans, Moving in or out cleans Trained and insured staff Equipment and supplies provided Quality Service Guarantee

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

RODDERS SCRAP METAL

HALE SKILLS • Washing Machines

Affordable & reliable cleaning programmes, tailored to meet your needs and budget

Have a pile of ironing and no time to do it - let me take it off your hands!

SCRAP METAL

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

Homes That Sparkle From People Who Shine

Rachael’s Ironing Service

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

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

01793 520388

email: enquiries@absolute-rubbish.co.uk

www.absolute-rubbish.co.uk

Letters to The Link Overzealous parking wardens are penalising restaurant trade in Swindon town centre From Mark Walker, Oakhurst Having recently taken my family out for a meal in the centre of Swindon, I returned to my car to find that I had misread the board (6pm - 6am: £1.80 for over two hours).

Thinking of when I might leave the restaurant, I paid £1.80 (as I would leave just after 8pm). Unfortunately, I bought the ticket just before 6pm, and therefore, I should have paid the peak time rate.

This must happen frequently because the warden issued the ticket shortly after 6pm and there were a few cars with recently issued tickets on.

Now the council might rub its hands together over the additional income generated through the fine (£25, which I paid immediately), but the unintended consequence of its greed is that I will not eat out in the centre of Swindon again and the cost to businesses will be circa £1,000 a year; money that will be spent out of the town centre in restaurants not subject to the attentions of commission hungry parking wardens.

Swindon Council might think it is clever but it is slowly killing off the town centre as a place for

families to eat out.

I bet this initiative, and the lack of applied common sense to people who have bought tickets and are not trying to avoid paying, is not brought up with the restaurant sector in the middle of Swindon.

It is a real shame because the focus on income generation by the council at all costs tarnished a good evening out and although the food at the Swindon Rendezvous was excellent, we will not be going back.

It is just not worth the hassle.

It is about time the council got the bigger picture when it comes to stimulating the economy, but I suppose short term-ism is what got us in this mess in the first instance.

Why else would people be out in the middle of Swindon after the shops close other than to plough money back into the local economy?

Parking app nonsense Juliet Platt says PaybyPhone and the apparent lack of joined up thinking in car parking policy is putting people off going to the town centre.

Read her letter at http://bit.ly/ phonepay

20/07/2012 10:45

46

swindonlink.com • August 2012

Mobile Hairdresser Fully Qualified and State Registered

Over 20 years experience Book now to have your hair done in the comfort of your own home Call Andrea on 07885 909272

YOUR VHS VIDEO OR CAMCORDER TAPE TRANSFERRED TO DVD DISC

£15

Tel: 01793 705333

TERRY WINTER

MONUMENTAL STONEMASON New memorials - Additional inscriptions Old memorials cleaned and renovated Free estimates • BRAMM accredited Over 25 years’ experience Tel: 01793 861035 or 07935 309644 email: terry.winter@hotmail.co.uk

Space Master The wardrobe people LUXURY FITTED WARDROBES Made to measure • Floor to ceiling Free brochures • No obligation quote

01793 827188

Open day for Naomi House Children’s Hospice

A West Swindon beauty salon, Elements of Serenity, at Delta Business Park is holding an open day on Saturday 4 August, 10am to 4pm, in aid of Naomi House Children’s Hospice to support Nicki Styles who is planning a charity trek and bamboo rafting trip in Thailand in December for the charity.

Nicki’s son Brandon, 12, suffers for him and doing so from the rare metabolic disorder much fundraising; I argininosuccinic aciduria and at- just wanted to help.

The free fun day tends Naomi House for respite care.

Having heard about the £5 mil- will include tradilion Naomi House has to raise each tional fair ground year salon proprietor Clair Wood games, craft stalls, decided to help out. She said, “Bran- a bouncy castle, don is such a great little guy who henna tattoos, tarot doesn’t let his condition bring him reading and compedown. Nicki does a great job caring titions.

Elements of SeJumble and nearly new sale renity staff will be on hand to talk to in aid of Save the Children potential customers Saturday 4 August, 10am to 1pm and there will be Purton Village Hall, Station Road, discount vouchers Purton, SN5 4AJ on treatments and Bargain toys, books, children's products.

Clair Wood with Nicki and Brandon Styles and adults' clothes, bric-a-brac.

Donations welcome. Contact Church moves from West to town centre Emma Johnson on 07533 531880 The Redeemed Christian Church of God Overcomers House, which started or: emma.johnson@hotmail.co.uk in Toothill Community Centre in October 2007, has bought the Old Sikh Temple on Deacon Street, off Commercial Road, where it holds a weekly Sunday service at 10.30am and a service on Wednesdays at 6.30pm.

The permanent worship centre will also double as youth centre where young people will be helped to discover their potential and purpose so that they can make positive impact in society.

Pastor Kunle Gabriel Adegboyega said: “Our church members enjoyed the support and cooperation of the management of the Toothill Community Centre while they were using the hall and we would like to thank them for their help.”

St. John’s Haydon Wick

On Thames Avenue next door to Morrisons Contact: Revd Raymond Adams Tel: 634258

Sunday 9am Traditional communion service Services 11am Eventful, contemporary worship

with children’s groups meeting www.stjohnshaydonwick.org.uk

We will provide trained teams to pray for you. We do not offer advice or counselling. Everything is confidential, there is no charge and no appointment is needed.

We are part of a Christian organisation, the International Association of Healing Rooms.

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

Join us in worship on Sunday mornings

Westlea Church, Westlea School: 10am St Mary’s, Lydiard Tregoze - the church in the park: 10am All Saints’, Lydiard Millicent - the church in the village: 10.30am Holy Trinity, Shaw: 10.30am Toothill Church: 10.30am For details of these and our other services call the Partnership Office on 874221 Email: partnershipoffice@btopenworld.com www.wswinlyd.org.uk

Sunday Worship 10.30am Sunday School and Creche Meeting at Abbey Meads Community School

Anglican • Baptist • Methodist • United Reformed Church

19-48 August 12.indd 46

20/07/2012 14:35

Swindon Travel Choices Swindon Travel Choices aims to make it easier for those living or working in Swindon to get around without clogging up the road network. We believe that by giving people proper travel choices, many everyday journeys can be made by bus, bike and foot rather than by car.

Travel Choices at Big Arts Day on 14 July Inclement weather before the Big Arts Day meant visitors were asked to leave cars at home and walk, cycle or take the bus to Lydiard Park. The Swindon Travel Choices web site gave clear guidance on travel options to the event whilst team members were in the park all day promoting the town’s excellent network of cycling and walking routes.

As part of the Swindon Travel Choices project, we will be introducing a car club to the streets of the town centre. A car club enables people to hire a car by the hour, so for many people who only use a vehicle now and then, it provides a handy way of making journeys without having the expense of buying a car, tax, petrol, MOT, insurance etc.

In the park, Maureen Corcoran, Claire Fleming and Ben Staite

You said . . . we did . . .

A survey of town centre workers in November 2011 revealed that the dark nature of the Sheppard Street tunnel made the pedestrian and cycle route from North Star to town unappealing. Work has now been completed on upgrading the lighting of the tunnel, which is part of the Western Flyer cycle and pedestrian route. The improvements are just the first of many along the two mile route that connects West Swindon to the town centre via Barnfield and North Star.

Western Flyer consultation There was a great response when we exhibited plans for the upgrade to the Western Flyer cycle route last month.

The exhibition was held at the Link Centre as part of National Bike Week celebrations and showed proposals for improving the two mile off-road link between West Swindon and the town centre.

Want to use a car without the expense of owning one?

There are already 2 cars available for club members to use at the Triangle development on Northern Road, and by the autumn there should be 3 further cars by the railway station, on Princes Street and at Prospect Place in Old Town.

For further information about how the car club works, visit: www.commonwheels.org.uk

Active Swindon Cycle Challenge a huge success!

Running throughout June, the Active Swindon Cycle Challenge drew hundreds of competitors from in and around Swindon, be they individual challengers or workplace teams - and boy, did they rise to the challenge! Throughout the course of the event, the challengers cumulatively cycled almost 1.5 times around the world, and logged thousands of journeys - that’s over 8 tons of CO2 saved!! Over 50 spot prizes of shopping vouchers and cinema tickets were awarded to participants to reward their efforts.

The challenge was launched with hundreds of bananas being distributed to cycle commuters. Well done to all our challengers, whether you did 1 or 1,000 miles!

Volunteer Walk Leaders Wanted Team member Ben Staite

For those unable to attend the exhibition, the plans are on the Swindon Travel Choices website at: www.swindontravelchoices.co.uk/projects/project-3.aspx

Free programme of guided bike rides Every Sunday until October we are running a series of leisurely led bike rides throughout different areas of Swindon. The rides run from 10am to midday and are suitable for all ages and abilities. The routes use the off-road network of paths, and quiet side streets, and will be at a leisurely pace, travelling through some of Swindon’s prettiest spots.

For a programme of dates and locations, visit our website: www.swindontravelchoices.co.uk/cycle.aspx

Swindon Health Walks is keen to hear from people who would be interested in leading new weekly walks in the Stratton or Penhill areas. A free one-day training course is being held on 14 September at the Link Centre between 10am and 3pm. Walk leaders need to be enthusiastic, reasonably active, reliable, punctual and enjoy meeting new people.

To find out more and to register, please contact Amanda on 01793 465413 or email: arothwell@swindon.gov.uk

Members of the Toothill Health Walk, Elaine Dix, leader, with Gail Light, left, and Caroline Evens

Interact with us: Facebook.com/Swindontravelchoices Twitter: @Swindon_Travel

www.swindontravelchoices.org.uk e-mail: info@swindontravelchoices.org.uk

August 12 Proofs.indd 1

19/07/2012 16:15

for

20 12

fun & games!

20 DayS activitieS for oNLy £12!

27 July – 12 August Join in the fun & games! valid for 20 days from date of purchase.

Usual Swindoncard terms and conditions apply.

free

Activities: swindonC ard!

• Badminton • Body Pump • 4 Gyms • RPM/RPM Express • 5 Swimming Pools (casual swim) • Table Tennis (recreation sessions) • Tennis (recreation sessions) • Walking Groups

w w w. sw i ndon.gov.uk /games Whitehill Way, Westlea, Swindon SN5 7DL Call 01793 445566

19-48 August 12.indd 48

19/07/2012 11:06