August 2013 Swindon Link

Summer sports, music and dance in the town centre, new shops arriving, kids events at The Brunel, Share a Coke together on 4 August.

It’s all on pages 23 to 26

SWINDON

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Chancellor sees logic of building Thamesdown Drive extension

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MEADOWPARK inspirational education childcare with love

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Also inside:

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• Grandad donates birthday gifts to children’s charity - page 3

Independent education Small classes, high standards Open 7.30am to 6.00pm

• Wider role for Women’s Aid - 5 • Latest on plans for Tadpole Farm & Ridgeway Farm - 6 & 7 • Upland secures Saudi cash - 13 • Brook Field head leaves - 14 • Kids summer reading challenge - 18 • Link rink reopens; centre to hold open day - 30

George Osborne looks to MPs Robert Buckland and Justin Tomlinson to make the case for the cash. Story on page 9 Free School for North Swindon in response to secondary places crisis?

Public meeting Thursday 15 August, 6.30pm, Isambard School – see page 15 Children’s Centres to be reorganised based on funding reduction Consultation running until 16 August - see page 17

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19/07/2013 12:29

Taiwan - Swindon - 4 countries in Africa Recruiting billet families Swindon Wildcats and Okanagan Hockey Academy UK begins its second year in September, offering high quality ice hockey training at Link Centre and academic study at Lydiard Park Academy to young players from Britain and the EU. This high level programme focuses on positive personal growth through education, athletics and citizenship.

Host families in West and North Swindon, Central, Lydiard Millicent, Royal Wootton Bassett & Wroughton are needed to provide male athletes aged 13 to 16 years, with a home-from-home.

All transportation is provided by the academy and host families will receive £350 per month to cover day-to-day living expenses.

To find out more about opening your home to a player and becoming part of this exciting opportunity, please contact Karen Black, OHA office manager, on 01793 886857 or mail: office@hockeyschools.co.uk www.hockeyschools.co.uk

Thanks to an offer from the government of Taiwan to North Swindon MP Justin Tomlinson, with assistance from Swindon based charity Lights for Learning and The Link magazine, hundreds of young people and teachers in several African countries will have light to return home after school.

The ambassador of Taiwan Dr a prototype with children on a Lynshen Shen will present Justin three week trip to Zimbabwe in with 200 hand held solar powered May. “They also found it really lighting units carrying the flags of useful for studying after dark; 3 Taiwan and the United Kingdom or 4 would cluster around a table and the words ‘Love from Taiwan’ to work together. The unit has an on behalf of Lights for Learning impressive battery life; it worked when he visits the town to meet for several hours a night for eight business leaders on 29 July days before recharging.”

Justin explained he had atRoger has plans to send the tended a meeting with Taiwanese lights to schools in Gambia, Zimparliamentarians last year where babwe, Zambia, and to Bukina they talked about community Faso through another charity work in Africa and showed off the working in the country. hand held solar powered lights. Roger of Lights for Learning and a handheld • Gambia visitor at Peatmoor Primary School - page 35 “I immediately told them about solar charged light Lights for Learning and the Taiwanese themselves. It means children can said they would be interested in sup- study after the sun has gone down. porting them. I contacted The Link “But where there is no electricity who liaised with the charity who came there are no street lights, so going to back with a really positive response.” the toilet block, or walking several Lights for Learning founder Roger miles along rough tracks or roads to Mugridge said the handheld units get home is dangerous. Children often Discover more about Swindon’s twin would be a tremendous benefit to hurt themselves falling into pot holes town link with Ocotal in Nicaragua children and teachers. “Our volun- and run the risk of being attacked by at the SOL Annual General Meeting teers fit solar powered lights to schools wild animals. The handheld lights on Thursday 5 September, 7.30pm, Lower Shaw Farm, SN5 5PJ. without electricity across Africa and could be life savers.” www.solswindon.co.uk teach local people how to do the job Roger added that he had tested

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19/07/2013 14:39

Grandad’s birthday gifts to Swindon disability charity Pathfinders Swindon received a financial boost on 30 May from 200 party-goers celebrating Mick Fisher’s 80th birthday after he asked for donations to the charity that provides outdoor experiences for disabled young people, including his granddaughter Louise, from Greenmeadow.

Last year Louise, who “We’ve taken the young peohas athetoid cerebral palsy, ple canoeing, sailing, abseiling, underwent major brain para-gliding and water-skiing. surgery to insert a batteryThe look of proud achievement powered controller into her and satisfaction on the faces of brain which helps reduce our members is priceless.” the involuntary muscle Mick completed an apmovements that characprenticeship inside Swindon terise her condition. Afrailway works when he left terwards she spent a week school and later set up a carpetin Northern Ireland trying fitting business after being activities such as riding in a made redundant. He said he speedboat with Pathfinders. was delighted with the success Commenting on his deciof his party. “Nearly the whole sion to invite guests to help family were there, including the charity Mick said: “It my sons who live in America was much better to ask for Louise with grandad Mick and Jean Clifford in front of and Australia. Usually older donations rather than be the Rugshack van, one of the charity’s sponsors people meet up with friends at left with a cupboard full of aftershave, Pathfinders received The Queen’s funerals, but it was great to see people soap, socks and slippers I’d never get Award for Voluntary Service in 2011. from school and work at my birthday. round to using. Pathfinders really is a Describing their work chairwoman “We raised £1,000 for Pathfinders fantastic charity which does so much Jean Clifford said: “We take the which will help the young people go for the young people.” youngsters to places with adapted skiing.”

Next February Pathfinders have equipment, with staff trained in leadTo help Pathfinders raise the money booked a skiing holiday in Austria for ing people with disabilities through needed to take the young people 15 disabled teenagers. But £18,500 is exciting challenges. It gives them a skiing, call Jean Clifford on 07732 needed to get them there, in addition chance to prove to themselves and 937282 or donate online: www.justto the £6,500 participants and helpers to show others just what they can giving.com/Pathfinders_Swindon/ are contributing. achieve, given the right opportunity. Donate

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18/07/2013 15:02

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

MS Therapy Centre marks three decades Over 200 members, families, supporters and VIPs came together for a party on 6 July to celebrate the thirtieth anniversary of the award winning Swindon Therapy Centre for Multiple Sclerosis.

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lovely opportunity for everybody involved in the centre to celebrate how far we’ve come together.

“Everybody comments on the friendly family atmosphere we have; it’s so important that we retain that into the future.”

Barry Palmer said he had been a therapy centre user for over 15 years, although the MS symptoms started in 1986 and forced him to leave work in 1993. “I’ve been coming to the centre every week to use all the facilities.

My type of MS means it gets worse very slowly. I use the oxygen chamber and have regular physio to keep me stretched out. It would be easy to become a couch potato and a burden on others but the centre is a lifeline to keep me as fit as I can be.”

Find out more at www.msswindon. org.uk or call 01793 481700.

See more party pictures at: www. bit.ly/SwindonMSTC30 Swindon Publications Ltd. Basepoint, Rivermead Drive, Swindon SN5 7EX Tel: (01793) 608840 e: publisher@swindonlink.com

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Starting as a small diet and exercise group for people with MS in 1981, the charity now has 360 members, sixty regular volunteers and its own premises in West Swindon where its purpose made oxygen pressure tank is located.

Over 6,000 oxygen and physiotherapy sessions are provided each year without any NHS funding.

The annual running costs are met by member contributions for therapies, a £37,000 Big Lottery grant and fundraising events.

Last Autumn the centre was awarded the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service, the MBE for volunteer groups and four users and volunteers were invited to a Buckingham Palace garden party on 6 June.

Jackie Wray, who has suffered from MS since 1993, said there were only 34 members when she became centre manager in 2004. “The party was a

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Editorial for September: 5 August Published: 24 August Copy for October: 2 September ‘Like’ Swindon Link

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ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES Call (01793) 602540 or mail: advertising@swindonlink.com Closing date for September advertisements: 2 August Swindon Link magazine

Take a Google tour of The Link office @ www.bit.ly/Linkofficetour “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

swindonlink.com • August 2013

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18/07/2013 15:05

Swindon Women’s Aid director says: ‘We can support you’ In April Swindon Women’s Refuge, part of Swindon Women’s Aid, marked its first anniversary in its new premises, providing self-contained accommodation for women who have suffered domestic abuse. Perhaps less well known is the provision of children’s services and outreach support for women and men.

Juliet Platt talked to Swindon Women’s Aid director Olwen Kelly who has been in the role since September 2012, coming from a civil service background and most recently working for the Home Office as a regional crime and drug abuse advisor.

Swindon’s commitment to reducing the incidence of domestic abuse can be seen in the statistics and more importantly the way lives of women, children and indeed men are damaged.

Commenting on the importance of the Refuge in Swindon, Olwen said: “While the national average of reported domestic abuse is only 25 per cent of violent crime; in Swindon that figure is more like 28.5 per cent, most probably thanks to the proactivity and zero tolerance attitude of local police.

“Thanks to the efforts of Swindon Borough Council, the Swindon Refuge has Beacon status nationally and is one of the largest facilities in the country, with 22 units, some with three bedrooms, and an emergency room. This means that we are able to take in abused women and their children, male or female, up to 18 years of age.

“In the past 12 months we’ve worked with over 400 individuals in the community and over 100 high

risk individuals. It’s very satisfying working with victims from day one and seeing their transition to independence.”

Explaining the nature of domestic violence Olwen said: “There doesn’t have to be physical violence involved, nor is it something that is more prevalent within certain demographics than others. Domestic abuse can be emotional and psychological too, such as the male partner having sole control over all the money, denying the woman any independence at all.

“Domestic abuse is a highly complex issue, and there is still a stigma attached to reporting it to the police, not to mention the domino effect on the partner’s job, the mortgage, and the children. It is terrifying for many women to confront and there needs to be more done to improve how it’s dealt with in the courts and in society.”

Convinced of the need to take preventative measures to solve the long term issue of domestic violence, Olwen and her team have begun a new programme for 11 to 18 year olds in schools and colleges across Swindon, focussing on healthy relationships, and guiding young people to be more discerning about what they read in the media and how they respond.

This will be further developed during the Autumn. She said: “Domestic

violence is not a phenomenon of the older generations. The number of abusive relationships is still emerging with young people between the ages of 16 to 25 being the ones most at risk, due largely to the way relationships are portrayed in the media.”

Swindon Women’s Aid is already delivering training for professionals such as GPs and teachers, on how to identify domestic violence cases, the impact on children and the type of behaviour that manifests as a result of abuse in the home. Olwen explained: “Professionals need a different level of knowledge and awareness to get to the root causes of different behaviours, rather than just reacting to the symptoms.”

Swindon Women’s Refuge operates a 24 hour helpline which women or concerned parents or friends can contact confidentially on 01793 610610. www.swindonwomensaid.org

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18/07/2013 15:06

Tadpole Farm garden village plans unveiled Crest Nicholson South West displayed plans for the first phase of development at Tadpole Farm in North Swindon at North Swindon Library on 22 July .

The 143 hectare site was granted will also be provided in the first phase. outline planning permission in Sep“Design Codes are to be submitted tember 2012 to accommodate 1,695 to Swindon Borough Council for each new homes, 5ha of employment land, phase of the development and once a local centre, primary school, public approved these will be the reference open space including a common, document setting the high standard of cricket pitch and three access roads. design for the Garden Village.

Planning consultant Sarah Foster “The site will bring a new vision said: “Crest Strategic Projects have for development in Swindon and chosen the site to promote their Gar- Crest are committed to creating a den Village concept which focusses on high quality green environment at framing development within green Tadpole Farm. About 120 houses are spaces which will cover over 60 per proposed in Phase 1a.” cent of the site. There will be tree lined People can comment on the Swinavenues, generous parking for each don Council planning website at: house across the site, and allotments www.bit.ly/TFplanapplic

Site for next phase of expansion to north of Swindon

Thames Water under pressure from Taw Hill residents

About 100 people living in Taw Hill turned out on Monday 25 June to voice their protest about Thames Water’s plans to install two huge underground sewage tanks costing £4.8 million on mature open spaces close to their homes on Queen Elizabeth Drive.

Open air objection in Taw Hill. Photo: Richard Wintle www.calyxpix.com

At the southern site, near Taw Hill pumping station and the Tawny Owl pub, some 20 mature trees would be ripped out. To the north a tank is proposed for an open space near Greenwood Grove. The tanks will be the size of 10 double decker buses but only a hatch, control box, lighting tower and vent pipe will be visible.

Thames Water say they need overflow storage capacity to cope with 1 in 30 year rainfall to prevent the Taw Hill pumping station being overwhelmed and sewage backing up.

However they will not be connected to the sewer network. The contents will be pumped into road tankers for transportation to Swindon’s sewage treatment works at Barnfield.

At the protest on Queen Elizabeth

Drive David Parkinson explained to neighbours: “The problem is not provision of extra capacity but the location. Thames Water want to trash a mature green area within a housing area, put in a 6 metre vent pipe close to homes and have tankers using a road unsuitable for HGVs, and pump out sewage at anytime of the day or night.

“There is a viable alternative site at Mouldon Hill.”

Following meetings with representatives, Thames Water have written to North Swindon MP Justin Tomlinson to say that they are reviewing plans in light of community feedback and are considering the feasibility of residents’ suggestions that the tank be built away from Taw Hill, in Mouldon Hill Park, to the west of Thamesdown Drive.

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There’s a lot of energy-related activity taking place around Cheney Manor industrial estate, with two new sites proposing waste treatment at various stages of planning and development – but it’s important to know which one’s which, and what each facility is offering.

The June Link featured Swindon Lauding the company’s proposal, Council’s project to constuct a brand Forward Swindon director of investnew facility at Waterside Park to con- ment Phil Young said: “Pure Green vert black bag waste into fuel. Due to could be a major win for Swindon. be commissioned in November, it will They will use state-of-the-art techbe fully operational by April 2014. nologies to produce sustainable Swindon Commercial Services energy and products, using resources divisional head of energy and sus- from within the Swindon area. We tainability James Owen said: “The have helped the company find suitmachinery will filter, shred and dry able premises and given guidance on black bag waste and render it down to planning issues. If they gain planning a material that resembles the contents consent, they will be contributing to of a vacuum cleaner. This will then one of our key target sectors – the low be baled and sold on to large scale carbon economy.” industry as a combined heat and However local councillors and power fuel source. residents’ groups are concerned “The plant will be the only one that the incineration of waste wood of its kind in the UK and will save involved in bio-mass processing will 50,000 tons of waste from going to bring significant risks of pollution to landfill each year.” a highly populated area.

In April biomass company Pure Councillor for Rodbourne Cheney Green, a branch of the Belgian animal ward Des Moffatt said: “I have used bedding manufacturer Hippofan, powers to require the matter to be applied to develop its plant close to dealt with by committee should ofWaterside Park. ficials be minded to approve.”

swindonlink.com • August 2013

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18/07/2013 15:07

Swindon Council should sort out the town centre market quickly says cafe owner An award-winning café owner is backing moves to bring street markets back to the town centre – and says Swindon Borough Council should do it sooner rather than later, writes Graham Carter.

Barry Cook, who runs Cafelicious Barry, who lives in Taw Hill, said in the Brunel Centre with his wife the council should consider other Mandy, scooped a Beverage Standards ways of boosting trade in the town Association award last year for its hot centre, including free parking. “I think chocolate, and an overall accreditathey could look at bringing in free tion of ‘outstanding’. parking on Sundays at least. When He says he is frustrated by council they experimented with it before, it policies that outlawed street traders gave us a huge boost – so much so that in Swindon at a time when other local when the scheme stopped, we initially authorities were looking for ways to saw trade halve overnight.” encourage shoppers into high streets.

While the debate goes on over Shopping ‘guru’ Mary Portas markets in general and the Christmas reported to the government in Demarket in particular, and with councember 2011 on the need to encourcillors turning it into a party political age independent street traders and issue, Barry fears the council isn’t markets. Barry, right, believes it is injecting the necessary urgency into time for Swindon to take her chalfinding a solution that suits traders lenge seriously. and shoppers alike.

“There is no doubt proper markets other town centre traders would have posal which Christmas market traders “The consultation is taking too create a buzz,” he said. “We saw it when as well. But from a shoppers’ perspec- support, it may not take place for a long,” he said. “I think it’s fair to say there was a food market in Havelock tive too, I’m sure it’s the best thing second year.

Swindon Council never does anySquare for six weeks in September that could have happened.

“I’m sure if it’s done properly – and thing quickly.” and October.

Rebecca Rowland, manager of “Not only that – almost all of it this goes for any street trading – it “It created a hustle and bustle, but was local produce. To me that’s what complements the town,” said Barry. InSwindon town centre management unfortunately the powers that be de- it’s all about.”

“An interesting and attractive market company, said the council’s licensing cided it wasn’t suitable. Yet our trade He is also in favour of Christmas will draw people to the town centre, committee is considering options was up by ten to 15 per cent. markets. Yet, with under six months but sadly small businesses don’t always and she hopes to know in August if “From a selfish standpoint, Cafeli- to go, unless the council’s licencing get support from the council. We need a Christmas market will be permitted cious certainly benefited, and lots of committee can come up with a pro- to be backed up.” in Canal Walk.

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swindonlink.com • August 2013

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18/07/2013 15:12

Hope that West Swindon relief road will be built

After years of inactivity by Swindon Council, there is movement to come up with a fully costed case for constructing the extension of Thamesdown Drive to Great Western Way via Barnfield Road.

Swindon’s two MPs Robert Buckroad, said: “The Chancellor got it imland and Justin Tomlinson took the mediately; he recognises the success of opportunity to outline the project to our town must not be constrained by Chancellor of the Exchequer George an inadequate road network Osborne when he visited the town “For several years the council was on 12 July, with Cllr Keith Williams, far too vague about getting ThamesSwindon cabinet member for highdown Drive built, it didn’t seem to ways strategic transport and leisure, be a priority. But there is now a plan setting out the detail of why building being developed which will give us a the road was necessary. clear framework to drive this project He explained how Swindon will forward into the next funding review. have expanded by another 15,000 “There’s a long way to go but I’m houses by 2026 and how Mead Way optimistic that we can secure a major was already under considerable presinfrastructure investment to the west sure, before 1,700 houses are built of Swindon.” at Tadpole Farm and another 700 at Keith said design options for a Ridgeway Farm outside Swindon’s single or dual carriageway extension Examining the Thamesdown Drive plan, from left, Robert Buckland, Justin will be ready in October. £2 million western border.

He also pointed out that the Tomlinson, George Osborne will be required to prepare detailed Cheney Manor industrial estate for this kind of smart investment. the major contract to supply the Min- plans. The 1.3 mile road, first prorequires redevelopment but has in“The town has two strong MPs in istry of Defence with 7,400 trucks. posed in 1997, plus access from adequate vehicle access.

Robert and Justin who have spoken Afterwards Justin said: “Robert Cheney Manor, is estimated to cost The Chancellor said: “I can’t make powerfully about the need for this and I have been lobbying in Parlia- up to £100 million. a commitment at this point, but hear- road.” ment with Keith Williams for the • Photos of MAN trucks tour at www. ing that Swindon does not have a ring The Chancellor was in town look- Thamesdown Drive extension. It will bit.ly/OsborneatMAN road and that the town’s economic ing at Network Rail’s dualling of the both benefit residents and unlock Swindon to Kemble line closed prospects could be held back without Swindon to Kemble line and meeting Swindon’s economic development.” from 9 August to 9 September the right infrastructure in place sug- some of the 130 apprentices at MAN Robert Buckland, who has been for track dualling. gests there is a good case to be made Trucks at Blagrove. He also discussed taking the lead on lobbying for the See www.bit.ly/SKdualrail

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19/07/2013 15:04

Toothill Big Local community barbecues

The committee getting ready to disburse the National Lottery £1 million allocated to Toothill under the Big Local programme is holding free open air ‘pop up’ events for children and parents/carers.

They are a chance to learn the latest Tuesday 13 August, 2pm to 4pm, about Big Local and discuss the kind Toothill Farm; of projects that could be funded by Wednesday 21 August, 11am to 1pm, the lottery money targeted at Toothill. Belver Park, Beaumaris Road.

The pop ups are aimed at Toothill The barbecues take place (weather residents. Younger children must be permitting) on: Thursday 25 July, 3pm to 5pm, out- accompanied by parents/carers. Apart from the barbecues, there will be a side Toothill Community Centre; Friday 2 August, 1pm to 3pm, Westlea variety of activities organised at each Park; event, including a litter pick.

Monday 5 August, 11am to 1pm, For information on the Big Local, Markenfield Park; mail: Toothill.bl2013@outlook.com

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Summer break is the busiest time for college New College is at its busiest in August getting ready for the start of the new term in September.

Hundreds of students will be enFind out more and apply online rolling at the end of the month but at www.newcollege.ac.uk or call there’s still time to apply for a course. the schools liaison team on 01793 If you’ve just finished Year 11 and have 611470. not quite decided where you want Open day to study, or if you’re worried about for Year 11 students your forthcoming GCSE results, It’s that time when students both then why not consider applying to focus on studying and passing those New College? important GCSEs and also make On offer is a range of courses and some firm decisions about what to qualifications across AS and A levels, do afterwards.

BTECs, GCSEs, and apprenticeships New College hosts an open day on in a variety of fields. All levels are Saturday 12 October, 10am to 2pm, covered from foundation learning, which will give prospective students a Level 1, 2, 3 and university courses. chance to look around the impressive There are 63 A Levels to choose facilities and speak to course tutors from and vocational subject areas in- about their options. clude public services, beauty therapy, The college will also be organising a sports studies, health and social care. number of other events and initiatives New College has great exam suc- throughout the year to give Year 10 cess and pass rates. The A Level pass and Year 11 pupils and their parents rate in Summer 2012 was 98.3 per the opportunity to visit and find out cent. The college offers a complete more. These include open evenings, student experience, including stu- taster sessions, careers surgeries and dent support, opportunities to get parents evenings. involved, enrichment qualifications To receive regular e-mail updates and employability initiatives, to and to stay informed about New help learners enhance their CV and College events and initiatives, register maximize their potential. via: www.newcollege.ac.uk

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swindonlink.com • August 2013

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19/07/2013 12:33

Parish clerk Sue retires after 28 years Sue Martin, clerk to Haydon Wick Parish Council, retired earlier in the year, having started her duties from a spare room at home in Haydon Wick, but ending in a purpose built parish office and meeting room off Thames Avenue.

Apart from the construction of service; creation of a bowling green; the parish building, Sue was involved dealing with the traveller occupawith: the North Swindon Develop- tion on Clary Road Field; running ment public enquiry and subsequent- of the Christmas parcel scheme for ly hundreds of planning applications seniors in the parish; development which came before the parish council; of the King George V playing field; the launch of a community mini-bus and the building of the Haydonleigh multi-use games area.

At a farewell party attended Rex Barnett, a legend by former parish councillors, A celebration of the life of former Mayor colleagues and local groups, Rex Barnett, Haydon Wick resident and parish councillor, was attended by well over parish chair Richard Hail250 people on 25 June at St Mary’s Church, stone thanked Sue on behalf of the community and wished Rodbourne Cheney. her well in her retirement.

Read tributes at: www.bit.ly/RBlegend Sue said that she had thorRex and Sandra Barnett at the Lydiard Park oughly enjoyed her time as Big Arts Day in 2010 parish clerk, but was looking forward to a life free of local government paperwork, but still being involved in the community with her husband, as well as spending time with their grandchildren.

Michelle Meyrick, a parish clerk with over 12 years experience, has taken on the role. www.haydonwick.gov.uk

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swindonlink.com • August 2013

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18/07/2013 15:13

Woman who interviewed Wyvern Theatre stars on Swindon Viewpoint community TV, and met Mother Theresa Mary Morgan has the perfect title for her memoir – that is if she ever finds time to sit down and write it. Fran Bevan meets a Grange Park resident with a fascinating back story of working in Swindon and abroad.

Mary, who will be celebrating her passed a variety of duties and a proeightieth birthday later this year, has duction of the ground-breaking Black worked as a charity fundraiser estabMacbeth in 1972 presented her with lishing Help the Aged in Canada and quite a headache when director Peter in New York and here in Swindon she Coe suddenly demanded foliage for was appointed the first public relathe stage and the Evening Advertiser tions officer at the Prospect Hospice refused to carry an advertisement for in 1980. But this wasn’t her first two young ‘black’ actors. Starring involvement with Swindon.

Oscar James and Mona Hammond In 1971 Mary was working for the the production opened at the Wyvern Belgrade Theatre in her home town of on 8 February before transferring to Coventry on a short term contract to the Round House, London on 22 introduce modern marketing methFebruary that year. ods for the British Arts Council. Then In 1974 a cancelled holiday and a she saw an advertisement in the trade chance meeting with Mother Theresa newspaper The Stage, for a public relaat the Help the Aged office in London tions officer at a new theatre opening proved a turning point in Mary’s life in Swindon. and she left the Wyvern to work for The Wyvern, headed by Brian Mary with her memory treasure chest. Photo: Richard Wintle www.calyxpix.com the charity in Canada and New York.

Chitty as administrator, theatre man- Richard Todd in The Winslow Boy. tablished by Radio Rentals in 1958. She mused: “I have a knack of being ager Alan Knowles and James Scott “At that time the Wyvern was run “They gave me a half hour slot every in the right place at the right time.” as production manager, opened in the by Thamesdown Borough Council week and I could interview whoever When Mary read in the March Autumn of 1971 with a performance and we were able to have some big came to the theatre.”

Link that Swindon Viewpoint is by the Ukrainian Dance Company. names,” said Mary, who quickly Mary rubbed shoulders with some celebrating its fortieth year and had That first season saw a production saw the opportunity to promote of the big stars of the day, some much of its extensive video archive of The Old Boys starring Michael the theatre on Swindon Viewpoint, who are now considered national digitised online, she wondered if Redgrave followed by The Marquise the experimental community cable treasures – Vera Lynn, Glynis Johns, any of her programmes might have with Glynis Johns and later that year broadcasting television station es- Joan Plowright, heart throb Charles survived. Unfortunately these were Dance who appeared as Ratty in a recorded on an early system and production of Wind in the Willows, Swindon Viewpoint doesn’t yet have as well as Swindon’s own Diana Dors. the equipment to digitise the tape, Confidante to the stars, Mary tells although they are trying to salvage how Diane Cilento once admitted the material.

And that book title? Well Mary that ex-husband Sean Connery had Advice for small businesses already has her epitaph written: ‘I had become ‘too rich’ for her. from Peter Bromiley ACA a great time getting here.’

She is still good friends with Sue Technical Director And with her charactistic wry Nicholls, Audrey from TVs CoronaAMS Accountancy Ltd. Swindon. humour she added: “It would be tion Street.

Most of the performers who passed terrible if I ended up in an old folk’s Q. I get child benefit but my income for 2012/13 went through the town were keen to help home and I’d be sitting in the corner over £50,000 – what should I do? promote their shows but Mary is and people would be saying ‘her up Where a parent or their partner has income over £50,000, happy to name two of the difficult there, she thinks she knows this one at least some of their child benefit will be clawed back due ones: Tony Booth, star of ‘Til death and that one. Take no notice of her.’”

So, when she eventually slows down to the High Income Child Benefit charge. do us part’ and father of Cherie Blair, and Mick Jagger’s sometime girlfriend long enough to start work on that You didn’t opt out before 5th January 2013, so payments autobiography she’s going to call it Marianne Faithful. you received must be declared to HMRC by you or your Her public relations role encom- ‘Before I Forget …’ partner (the highest earner). Do this by registering for Self-Assessment and submit a tax return in January 2014.

Ask Peter B

When calculating your income; company car benefits, rental and investment income, etc., all count towards the £50,000 total. You can reduce the tax by contributing to pensions, gift aid and childcare vouchers and other items.

For details of our Self-Assessment Tax Return Service : 01793-818400 / admin@www.ams-acountancy.co.uk

12

School seeks history help

Lydiard Millicent Primary School has embarked on a research project that will culminate in a book tracing its history since it was founded in 1841 through to the present.

The school is appealing to readers who may have any information, photographs, or anecdotes to get in touch. Headteacher Carol Dougill said: “Our school has played an important role in Lydiard Millicent for over 170 years.

The idea of documenting our history is an exciting one but we need help.

If there are any ex-pupils, teachers or friends who have any information or pictures please let us know. Anything we borrow we will take good care of and return it when we’ve finished using it.”

Anyone who has information or photographs can contact the school by calling 01793 770571 or mail: admin@lydiardmillicentcofe.wilts.sch.uk

swindonlink.com • August 2013

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19/07/2013 14:44

Saudi based group donates to Swindon special school

A lodge of Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes - or Buffs - based in Darran in eastern Saudi Arabia has presented £2,906.98 to the development of Uplands Educational Trust Learning Centre which opens in September.

The contact with the group came Britain, South Africa, Australia and personalised learning, supported money. Now, I can’t stop beaming, via Linda Meadows who worked at the USA, but our raffles and social work opportunities, community it’s just wonderful to see the new Uplands School ten years ago when functions attract a much larger fol- involvement and life skills training.” school; its absolutely fantastic and we it was based in Penhill, four years lowing of ex-patriots from around the Linda said: “The lodge were dis- were really pleased to hear about how before it moved into its current North globe based in our region of Saudi.” cussing which charity to support over Uplands is going to help over 19s.”

Swindon premises.

Uplands Educational Trust Learn- the next few months and I put forward Donations welcome Husband Chris, who was based at ing Centre is a new initiative to help Uplands which does great work with The Uplands charity shop at Redhouse RAF Lyneham, now trains Saudi air young people aged 19 to 25 make children with disabilities. When we Village Centre needs good qualforce engineers with BAE Systems, the transition to living as indepen- were in Penhill I spent a lot of time ity clothing and accessories, books, said: “There are Buff branches all dent adults. Deputy headteacher calling Swindon businesses for dona- toys, unwanted gifts, DVDs and small over the world, including Wiltshire, Andy Segal said the future for young tions as there was very little money for household items to sell in support of which engage in fundraising for good people after leaving Uplands has been student activities. I remember one day the Uplands Educational Trust. Call causes. We have about 30 members in limited. “In September we’re opening the head saying that there wasn’t any 01793 753013 to help. our Shamal Lodge who come from a centre at Stratton Road to provide

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Home & Away is our family-based scheme designed to support parents of children with disabilities by providing children with the opportunity to enjoy different experiences and develop new friendships.

Students Lottie Palfreman and Tom Wisden receive a cheque from Linda and Chris Meadows with Del Fry, acting chair of governors and TA Kyle Ismail

Overnight Short Breaks for Children with Disabilities

For more information please contact Swindon’s Family Placement Team on 01793 465700 or visit the website at www.swindon.gov.uk/homeandaway

Swindon College Highworth Warneford School An Academy Putting Excellence First

OPEN MORNINGS

Have you secured your place this September at Swindon’s Outstanding College?

Monday 23rd September to Friday 11th 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@warneford.swindon.sch.uk

It’s not too late!

Call our Advice and Guidance Team tOday - Lots of exciting full time courses on offer.

For more information about courses at Swindon College Visit our website www.swindon-college.ac.uk or call Freephone 0800 731 2250 or email studentservices@swindon-college.ac.uk Swindon College, North Star Avenue, Swindon, Wiltshire, SN2 1DY

swindonlink.com • August 2013

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17/07/2013 16:19

Do You Want to?

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Much loved headteacher moves on It was a tearful farewell for Brook Field Primary headteacher Mel Sancto when she moved on at the end of July to a new post near Cardiff.

Elaine Watt Focused Counselling BACP accredited counsellor

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Mel was appointed by former head Roger Nicholas as a newly qualified teacher in 1990 and worked her way up through the ranks of deputy to become head teacher six years ago.

Commenting on what it will be like to leave Brook Field Mel, who is only the third headteacher since the school opened in 1987, said: “I can’t imagine not being here, I’ve spent most of my adult life here so the school is like family to me.

“I’ve seen children I used to teach come through as parents, and even

trained one of them as a teacher.”

When asked what her legacy is for Brook Field, Mel said: “I hope I’ve created a happy school with children that love learning, teachers that don’t want to stand still, who are always looking to be better, and parents who feel welcomed and that they can come and talk to me.”

Handing over the headship reins to her deputy Dan Clark she said: “We’ve worked very closely together and I know the Brook Field values will continue with Dan at the helm.”

swindonlink.com • August 2013

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19/07/2013 14:47

Secondary school places crisis looms

preschool gymnastics

Isambard headteacher calls public meeting about free school plan on 15 August

Isambard School headteacher Rachael Mattey is calling a public meeting in August to discuss the impending crisis in secondary school places in Swindon - particularly the northern sector - and to consider the option of establishing a free school with the support of Isambard.

A paper outlining a of this year - because the number of possible socouncil will no longer lutions to the problem have control. Also, the of secondary provision current options have across the town was been based on the existpresented to Swindon ing population, before Council cabinet in June. there’s been a brick laid However Ms Mattey at Tadpole Farm.” believes the report does Pa rent-l e d f re e not go far enough, nor does it address schools are an innovation of the the urgency of the issue for areas such coalition government, and the UK as Groundwell East, St Andrews will see a further 102 schools of this Ridge, Abbey Meads or Priory Vale. type open in 2014.

Commenting on the options outFollowing the experience of eslined by the council she said: “The tablishing Isambard as a brand new decision is between building new school in 2007 Ms Mattey believes schools, expanding existing ones or that a free school would be a sensible bussing children around the town to solution for North Swindon. She fill spare places. said: “We want to position the idea “Based on existing figures second- as a community project with the poary school places in North Swindon tential to be part of an umbrella trust are going to be in desperate need as with Isambard, and possibilities for a soon as 2015. We ought to be looking shared sixth form. It is important that to access free school funding right parents feel they get the school they now to meet it.” want for their children. A working Pointing out a couple of flaws in party of interested parents keen to the current options facing the council push the idea forward would be ideal.”

Ms Mattey said: “None of the options Parents are invited to discuss the are workable if all secondary schools free school idea at a public meeting in Swindon achieve academy status, Thursday 15 August, 6.30pm, in the as is likely to be the case by the end main hall at Isambard School.

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Splash for free with Aquababies West Children’s swimming specialist Aquababies West are offering free taster sessions at all classes in pools in the Swindon area, including two new pools: • Spirit Health Club at the Holiday Inn in Old Town on Monday and Saturday mornings and Tuesday afternoons; • Living Well Health Club at the Hilton Hotel near M4 Junction 16 on Wednesday, Friday and Sunday afternoons.

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swindonlink.com • August 2013

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19/07/2013 13:55

Care for bereaved mothers at Great Western Hospital Further to the July article about Vicky Pullen’s experience of giving birth to a still-born baby at Great Western Hospital and her fundraising to supply the hospital with a cold cot so that babies can be presented to grieving parents and family, Sandra Richards, clinical midwifery manager, Great Western Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, has responded to assure parents that GWH works hard to ensure the best care possible for mothers.

We are so sorry to hear about Vicky’s experience. Each of our mothers is cared for by a dedicated team of highly trained midwives who make every effort to provide high quality care tailored to their individual needs.

We work hard to provide mothers with the privacy, dignity and respect needed during such a distressing experience, however their safety is

always our absolute priority, which can mean being cared for in a more clinical environment.

All of our mothers are offered specialist support including bereavement counselling. The Great Western Hospital was one of the first hospitals to invest in trained bereavement counsellors and the team received national recognition from the Royal College of Midwives earlier this year.

We are always looking at how we can improve our services and welcome ideas and suggestions. Work is currently taking place to create a dedicated bereavement suite and sitting room. This area will be a completely

private, homely and comforting space for woman and their families. A cold cot is an important part of these plans and we are grateful to Vicky and her family for their brave and generous support in raising money for one.

We are continuing to fundraise for the bereavement suite and welcome donations towards this. If you are interested in supporting us please contact our fundraising manager Hannah Persaud: Hannah.persaud@ gwh.nhs.uk I would encourage any patient or relative who has concerns or questions to speak to a member of staff at the time or ask to speak to the customer service team on 01793 604031.

Help break the world breastfeeding record Mums and babies are invited to Lydiard Park on Saturday 3 August, 10.30am to celebrate the World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action Big Latch On, a synchronised breast feed in multiple locations.

The first Big Latch On took place in New Zealand in 2005 and has become a world event. Last year 8,862 children were counted breastfeeding as part of the Global Big Latch On. Kathryn Beale wants Swindon mums to come together close to the children’s play area at Lydiard Park to break this record.

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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

16

9.30am – 4pm Parents say:

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swindonlink.com • August 2013

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18/07/2013 15:14

Future of children’s centres to be discussed until 16 August Swindon Council has launched a consultation on proposed changes to the town’s 14 children’s centres which provide information, advice and services for parents of children under five.

A re-organisation is planned so est in this issue to let us know what that centres have to work more closely they think.” together and target funding where Under a new funding formula there is the most need. worked out between the council and Resources have increasingly not heads of centres, 90 per cent of the matched local demand, with the money received by each centre will busiest children’s centre - Butterflies at have to be targeted at vulnerable and Abbey Meads Primary School - receiv- poor families within their catchment. ing only the 11th level of funding out Ten per cent can be used for activities of fourteen centres, despite providing which are accessible to all families. services to over 1,000 more children West Swindon Family Centre than the second-busiest centre. manager Julie Batson said: “We will be In the past decade there has been working to maintain our high levels of a significant increase in service and minimise any the number of children impact on the quality of under five, due to a risthe services to families in ing birth rate and town West Swindon.” expansion, particularly Abbey Meads headin the north and south. teacher Bob Buckley, There has also been an left, who is also head of increase in demand for Butterflies, said North specialist services, with Swindon had experienced more children suffering from abuse rapid growth with a disproportionate and neglect, and more under 10s impact on the children’s centre. “The coming into care following family reduced funding across the town will breakdowns. now be reallocated on the basis of This is set against central govern- need. The continued challenge for ment cutbacks to local authorities.

Butterflies will be to respond to famiCouncil leader Cllr David Renard, lies in parts of North Swindon like said heads of children’s centres and the Redhouse where there is little physical council have worked together on how space to offer support activities.” to deliver the best possible services Find the council’s assessment of with reduced resources and increasing need and change proposals at: www. demand. “We have to take a fresh look swindon.gov.uk/childrenscentreconat the way we are providing support sultation to families with children under five. The consultation ends on 16 August.

The work done by children’s centres There are two public meetings which is hugely valuable, but the way we parents can attend: currently provide the service is not Thursday 1 August, 4pm to 5pm, sustainable and no longer in the best Link Centre; interests of particularly vulnerable Tuesday 6 August, 7pm to 8pm, children.

Pinetrees Community Centre, The “I would urge anyone with an inter- Circle, Pinehurst

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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

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MEND is a fun, free 10-week programme for children aged 5-16 years and their parents If you think your child is over a healthy weight and would like further information about MEND please call Emma Sperring on 01793 465412 or email ESperring@swindon.gov.uk or visit www.leisureinswindon.co.uk

swindonlink.com • August 2013

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19/07/2013 14:32

Looking for a food business you can trust?

It’s in BLACK and RED

The Eat with Confidence brand is a new trader assurance scheme which identifies food businesses with a high level of food hygiene and good customer service.

The Creepy House is waiting for kids who enter a Swindon library this summer Are you brave enough to explore The Awful Upstairs, The Gruesome Ground Floor and The Spine-Tingling Cellar?

Discover the secrets of Creepy ter @SwindonLibrary and also the House and meet some of the hair- Creepy House blog: www.srcswinraising residents through Swindon don.wordpress.com Libraries Summer Reading ChalLibrary staff and volunteers will be lenge. It’s free to join and simple to on hand to help children win medals do: just read six books during the for reading, and an interactive Creepy summer through your local library. House website links children with top Children receive a foldout poster, authors and illustrators whilst giving and a certificate and medal when they them an opportunity to talk about successfully complete the challenge. their favourite books and share readAfter reading three books they’ll ing ideas: www.creepy-house.org.uk receive a free DVD voucher.

There’s a colouring competition This year, the library is challeng- for under 8s and over 8s can design ing children across the town to read their own monster to win prizes. Pick 13,000 books by 7 September and up entry forms at your local library. there will be running totals on the During July and August fines will be Swindon libraries web site, on Twit- waived on overdue children’s books.

Discover which Swindon businesses have been awarded membership of the scheme at www.swindon.gov.uk/ewc

Former Westlea primary headteacher and now acclaimed children’s author Neil Griffiths promoted the Summer Reading Challenge to an invited audience of children from West Swindon primary schools. He read many of his books, all with actions, plus involvement of children and teachers becoming some of his enthralling characters

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Mela on 14 September needs volunteer help Swindon Mela takes place in mid-September, but because of the new date the organising committee is appealing for more people to come forward to make the event a success. People are needed to take on marshalling duties, assist with the movement of equipment, as well as to shake buckets to attract donations to fund the event. If you can help mail: info@swindonmela.com

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Swindon’s Museum of Computing is celebrating its tenth anniversary with the launch of a new exhibition: Robots 250 Business Cards Revealed.

ONLY + 250 A5 Leaflets It aims to turn the spotlight on the at the mighty Gyrobot, a 100kg and Saturday computer classes for Printed 4 colour one side only Design service also available exciting world of robots and explain battle-scarred veteran of TV’s Robot young people. their history, their future and the Wars. There are plenty of interactive Find out more at www.museum-ofinc. VAT impact they have on people’s lives. It displays to help visitors both better computing.org.uk explores every aspect of the robotic understand robots and also have a The museum and Robotics Reworld, from the robots that build our go at controlling one. vealed is open on Fridays, 10am to MLL Print & Digital Unit 101 Basepoint Centre cars to the devices that are revoluEli Dawson, the museum’s assistant 4pm and Saturdays, 9.30am to 5pm Rivermead Swindon Wilts SN5 7EX Telephone: 01793 490490 tionising surgery, from children’s curator and organiser of the exhibition at 6 to 7 Theatre Square, Swindon www.mllprint.co.uk toys, to the robots that wage our said: “This is one of the most exciting SN1 1QN. wars remotely. exhibitions we have delivered. We’ve Visitors are able to see the latest had some fantastic support from our in labour-saving domestic robot sponsors and some incredible exhibtechnology, pit their wits against its, it’s not to be missed.” an industrial robot and marvel Over the six months of the exhibiGallery manager Fleur Perry and famous semi-robot tion the museum will be at the museum’s tenth anniversary party on 5 July. running a series of workPhoto: Richard Wintle www.calyxpix.com shops where visitors can A 47 bedroom hotel set in the stunning Wiltshire countryside build and programme Weddings | Afternoon Teas | Spa Days | Private Functions their own robot.

Simon Webb, museum curator said: “We MEMBERSHIP SPECIAL OFFER: 5% DISCOUNT are living in a time (Annual membership only, terms and conditions apply) where the dream of a roIndoor Swimming Pool | Gym | Tennis bot in the home is now a Snooker | Golf | Steam Room | Spa reality. This exhibition is a fascinating insight into how far robots have proMonday – Saturday Lunch gressed and a glimpse £12.50 per person (2 Courses) into their future.”

Sunday Lunch £17.50 (3 Courses) At a tenth anniversary party museum founder Jeremy Holt said: “We Special Membership Offer: One year unlimited golf for think of the computonly £199.00 per person (terms and conditions apply) ing museum as being Or unlimited golf £9.00 per person per play (membership not required) a true one, being both public-facing and playComedy Night. Friday 4th October, 7.30pm ing an important role in Four acts plus Bangers & Mash: preserving and properly storing computing ar£14.95 per person tefacts.”

He also paid tribute to the volunteers who Common Hill, Cricklade, Wiltshire, SN6 6HA run the museum, coreception@crickladehotel.co.uk www.crickladehotel.co.uk ordinate user groups

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

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Farm yard to be set up in front of Lydiard House Family open air entertainment continues at Lydiard Park on Friday 16 August, when Illyria present their adaptation of Dick King-Smith’s wonderful story of friendship, courage and determination: Babe the Sheep Pig. Shakespeare’s masterpiece, Romeo and Juliet in early July and Beatrix Potter’s Tales of Peter Rabbit and Benjamin Bunny at the end of the month were sell out shows.

See sheep herded using politeness in front of Lydiard House as Babe tries to save his bacon by being good enough to win the county trials with help from Fly the sheepdog.

Tickets are £14 for adults, £9 children or £40 for a family (two adults and two children), from Swindon Arts Centre, Old Town, call 01793 614837 or go to www.wegottickets.com/swindonartscentre www.lydiardpark.org.uk

It’s summer and the time to launch this winter’s pantomime Keith Chegwin was back in Swindon with the cast of this year’s show on 17 July to launch Jack and the Beanstalk at Roves Farm.

Jack and the Beanstalk is the most agricultural of all the pantomimes. Set on a farm, it tells the story of Jack (Sam Parker) who has to sell his cow Daisy in order for his mother Dame Trot (David Ashley) to make ends meet.

Jack exchanges Daisy for magic beans – magic beans which, with the help of a fairy (Jennifer Greenwood), grow to become the biggest beanstalk in all the land... and at the top is a giant surprise.

“This year’s pantomime will be the Wyvern’s biggest yet,” said producer Daryl Back. “I’m thrilled to be working with Keith Chegwin and David Ashley again – I can guarantee giant laughs when they take to the stage together again.”

You won’t have to sell the family cow to enjoy the show.

There are tickets to suit all pockets. Jack and the Beanstalk will run from Saturday 7 December until Sunday 5 January 2014. Keith down on the farm getting into role as Silly Billy. www.wyverntheatre.org.uk Photo: Richard Wintle www.calyxpix.com

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Sign up for kids’ summer camp The Hi5 Camp at the Haydon Centre, Thames Avenue takes place from Thursday 25 July to Friday 30 August for four to 12 year olds.

Activities include team and ball games, trampolining, bouncy castle, quizzes, electronic games, music and dance, arts and craft A standard day from 9.30am until 4.30pm costs £18.55 with a SwindonCard/ Leisure in Swindon card and £31.50 without the discount. There are extra charges for an early start at 8.15am or a late finish until 5.45pm.

Download the Hi5 camp registration form or complete the sports camp online form at: http://tinyurl.com/obmp9sp

Roves Farm A great day out, come rain or shine

Go crazy with water balls and golf at Studley Grange Studley Grange Butterfly World near M4 Junction 16 opened its newest attractions, Water Balls and Crazy Golf, on 27 July.

Swimsuits aren’t necessary as children are zipped up into a giant floating ball to bounce around on the pool, or take on the crazy tees to see who can score a hole in one. Both attractions are open all through the summer holidays until the end of October, weather permitting.

In the animal paddock, be entertained by the antics of the meerkats or watch the otters being fed with three feeding times daily at 11.30am, 1.30pm and 3.30pm.

Or for ultimate peace and quiet, feed the fish, watch the exotic butterflies and learn about lizards in the tropical house.

Studley Grange offers the perfect day out for boisterous kids this summer.

See contact details in the advert below.

Super summer attractions at Roves Farm

As well as the animals to meet and feed, crafts and the play areas to enjoy there are special activities to enjoy at Roves Farm during the school holidays.

From Wednesday 31 July to Saturday 10 August, take a tractor ride to follow the story of the Very Hungry Caterpillar.

From Sunday 11 August to Wednesday 21 August you can help Robin Hood and his Merry Men, and from Thursday 22 August to Sunday 1 September there are tractor rides to help Roves Farm’s very special sunflower to grow.

See the advert, right, for more details.

Sevenhampton, Nr. Highworth, Swindon, Wilts.

SN6 7QG 01793 763939

OPEN DAILY, 10:00am - 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 Climb, Bouncy Castle & Outdoor Play Area * Tearoom - delicious homemade cakes & light lunches !

Toddler activities every weekday during term time Special themed events throughout the school holidays

www.rovesfarm.co.uk

swindonlink.com • August 2013 21

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Swindon-based film maker reeling from Cannes experience Mark Kenna of newly incorporated Swindon company Bad Blood Films Ltd returned from the May Cannes Film Festival with a long list of contacts and potential interest in Facility 31, a brand new horror movie set in a disused UK military bunker.

Along with writer and director David Hawk from Bristol, Mark presented a slickly produced, high end investment pack to the Cannes market, and turned heads among acquisition companies and global film distributors.

Explaining their next steps Mark said: “We’re now looking at lots of different funding pools to get the film made, and are talking Mark with Lloyd Houfman, the legendary to different financiers and grant lead actor in the Troma horror films providers. We want to combine the in the pre-production process which best of the old-fashioned movie- is really exciting. making business with the latest “The future of movie-making is methods of production and direct going to be all about small profesdistribution.” sional teams engaging with a massive Mark says Facility 31 will appeal fan-base team so the film-goers are to the massive and loyal fan-base already invested in the end product.” that follow the horror genre. “We’re Hear Mark and David talking about planning a gaming app that fans will Facility 31 in a podcast at www. be able to engage with, where they starburstmagazine.com/podcasts/ can explore the setting and the story horror-podcast lines and perhaps make suggestions.

Read more at www.bit.ly/BBFHIT“This will be the first time fans get mag the opportunity to be part of a film www.facility31.com

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22 swindonlink.com • August 2013

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Swindon Town Centre Summer Events:

August 2013

www.swindontowncentre.co.uk

What’s going on in your town centre The good weather is set to continue into August and Swindon town centre has lots to keep the whole family entertained throughout the month. Plus, with the Bank Holiday on the 26th August here are a few ideas to keep you and the family busy.

For Business For Shopping For Leisure

Inside

this edition...

For the sport lovers…

Swindon Sports Showcase Saturday 10th August- Friday 16th August Following a fantastic summer of sport in the summer of 2012 with the Olympics and Paralympics, inSwindon BID Company are pleased to host a further sporting showcase for all ages, taking place at Wharf Green this August.

A variety of sports will be on offer for FREE every day for participants of all ages and abilities to try. Local sports clubs will be offering activities such as Wheelchair Basketball, Hockey, Softball, Martial Arts, Tennis, Netball, Football and Volleyball. All this will take place in front of the big screen whilst showing the 2013 World Athletics Championships.

The activities will be taking place from 11am to 3pm so what better way to enjoy a summer’s day than to play some games and have some fun with friends and family in your local town centre? If you would like any further information on this event, please contact inSwindon at: info@inswindon.com

Music showcase

In partnership with Holmes music, inSwindon BID Company are spreading the festival vibe through the town by giving local bands and musicians the opportunity to perform live in Swindon town centre which will create an exciting and fun experience for all!. New to 2013, these special gigs have taken place every Saturday throughout July and will continue every Saturday throughout August. Bands and artists will be situated near the water fountain on Canal Walkso come and take a look on your way through town and enjoy some music while you shop!

A Mini Festival!

And to top the music sessions off, all talent will be coming together on Saturday 31st August for a special music showcase throughout the day from 11am3pm. Come and support our budding musicians!

p2 New Shops

p3 Get Involved

Brunel Rooms presents Pete Tong

Brunel Rooms, Swindon Sat 31st August 2013 Yes the exciting news that The Brunel Rooms are back and as always offering great music. On Saturday 31st make a night of it as Pete Tong will be playing.

Date: Saturday 31st August 2013 Doors: 9:00pm till 4:00am (last entry 1:00am)

For the Theatregoers….

At the Wyvern Theatre Ladies Night - starts 8.30pm Friday 16th August Well, this one is strictly for the ladies!

The most popular evening held in the Wyvern Restaurant returns!

Arrive to a devilish cocktail and let this night of naughtiness begin. Their hilarious drag queen will lead you through a night of tantalising fun, alongside their gorgeous male entertainment, accompanied by some naughty nibbles to tempt you while their boys catch their breath and find their clothes!

Strictly over 18s and Ladies only.

Tickets: £26.50

p4 MECA Comedy

Our House Wyvern Theatre

Thursday 22nd - Sunday 25th August Thursday and Friday 7.30pm Saturday 2.30pm and 7.30pm Sunday 1pm Following the success of last year’s Summer Youth Project, the Wyvern Theatre is thrilled to present the Madness Musical Our House.

Our House is a fast moving romanticcomedy featuring all the hits of Madness.

The show tells the tale of Joe Casey and the two courses his life may take after committing a petty crime to impress his girlfriend. What would have happened if he stayed to meet the police when they appear on the scene of the crime? What would have happened if he had made a run for it? Tickets: £12.00 - £15.00

For all the latest news and events visit www.swindontowncentre.co.uk 1 19 - 48 August 13.indd 23

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Town Centre News

Swindon Town Centre

Retailers giving it all they’ve got…

Despite the current economic climate, Swindon town centre retailers and business owners are determined to continue to trade with a positive attitude.

In particular, independent retailers within Swindon have been talking about their view on the situation; and what approach they are taking to the matter.

Similarly, other business owners adopt the same view that support is vital. Sue Bracken, who runs Sweets Galore in the Brunel Centre, says; “people in Swindon are supportive of independent retailers. If you can give them a good service they will always come back.

I get to know them, their families and what they do”.

A well-established businessman in the town centre, cobbler Vince Ayris, stated “To be successful you have got to be a community orientated business. It’s about support. If you show support you get support back”.

With such positivity and the drive to ensure customers are always receiving good service, business owners are showing consumers that their services will not falter and that the customer always comes first.

New Shops in

We have some new and exciting places

Costa Coffee - The Parade: Coffee lovers will be overjoyed by the arrival of a new Costa at The Parade in Swindon.

Situated in Unit 7, near Debenhams, Costa will also create at least 12 jobs for local people; a great prospect for Swindon town.

Using street view technology a virtual tour brings businesses to life with a high quality, 360-degree interactive tour.

Swindon town centre businesses that have already taken advantage of this great offer include Great Western Cameras, Wyvern Theatre, Sugar Celebrations, Jury’s Inn, Spot on Models and Penny Farthing Antiques.

To take a look go to Swindon BID Company website on www.swindontowncentre.co.uk or visit www.virtualswindon.com/inswindon.

opening within the town centre; here is what Swindon has to offer:

Banquet Restaurant - Regent Street The Boss Barbershop Eating out options for lunch and dinner in Havelock Square: Swindon have just improved with the opening of a new Chinese restaurant in the town centre.

The Banquet in Regent Street - formerly the Plum Tree pub offers over 60 eat-all-you-can dishes + dessert, sushi & salads.

Adults are just £7.

The jewellery specialists are back in town, chocked full of enthusiasm and great savings for all! The store will be situated at Unit 9, Havelock Square, and The Brunel Centre.

Deichmann - The Parade:

Poppins cafe is a cafe/restaurant situated in Regent Street and is open from 8.30am Monday to Saturday every week.

inSwindon BID Company have teamed up with Wiltshires Google virtual tour to offer retailers a unique opportunity to showcase their businesses to customers around the world 24/7.

Swindon Town Centre

Warren James Jewellers - Havelock Square:

Poppins Cafe - Regent Street:

Google Virtual Tour

Europe’s largest shoe retailer has landed in Swindon! For all shoe lovers, Deichmann sell an extensive range of quality footwear for men, women and children. A large store with a size of two unit spaces, Deichmann is located opposite River Island and USC stores in the Parade, town centre. Open now.

Gentleman haircuts at an extremely reasonable price! Situated in Havelock Square, The Boss Barbershop is an extremely modern, spacious barbers catering for young and old men alike.

Open now.

Schuh - Regent Street: Schuh is a well established and award winning shoe shop, specialising in fashionable shoes and trainers to suit all ages.

They supply an outstanding list of branded shoes for men, women and children - with varieties to suit all tastes! Schuh is open now and has had extremely positive website reviews for customer service- so go and see their great team!

It provides a warm and friendly atmosphere for shoppers, retailers and families alike, offering an extensive menu to suit many different tastes. It is open now, so take a look and see what delicious treats they have to offer- word has it they supply a knickerbocker glory!

2 For all the latest news and events visit www.swindontowncentre.co.uk 19 - 48 August 13.indd 24

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Summer Events!

There’s been so many great events so far in 2013 we wanted to show off just a few of the things that have gone on throughout the town centre‌

Swindon Town Centre About us - What is inSwindon BID? inSwindon BID is a Business Improvement District, 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 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

For all the latest news and events visit www.swindontowncentre.co.uk 3 19 - 48 August 13.indd 25

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Get involved...

Swindon Town Centre

More Summer Events in Swindon!

Last Night of the Proms. Saturday 7th September from 6.30pm until late.

The annual Last Night of the Proms event On, of course). Seats for this event can set you is back for 2013. back nearly £150, but inSwindon BID Company

bring this magical, musical evening live to It’s an event that we have all most definitely you all the way from The Royal Albert Hall in been waiting for. Let’s all come together once London completely FREE of charge. again for one of our favourite nights.

Don’t forget to email events@inswindon.

The Last Night of the Proms is undoubtedly com to reserve your seats. Watch this space the most popular event that is live on the Big for more up-coming events for you to look Screen (apart from the Christmas Light Switch forward to.

At Swindon Dance...

Wednesday 14th August URBAN UP SUMMER SCHOOL 7-10 YEARS and 11-16 YEARS Urban Up your summer and join Swindon Dance for a thrilling mix of locking, breaking, moving and shaking with two of the UK’s finest urban dancers!

Breakdancer Banxy – with over 15 years experience in teaching and performing hip hop across the UK and abroad as well as appearing in many tv shows, live events and music videos.

Dan Lowenstein who specialises in Breaking and Contemporary dance. Dan is currently making a piece for Impact Dance which will be performed at Breaking Convention this year.

Times: 10am – 3pm daily

This year Emily Smith is very excited to announce that she is putting on a Pole & Aerial Arts Show (with all different kinds of acts in between) There are many amazing performers with all kinds of different acts from pole, aerial hoop, aerial silks, chair dancers, burlesque, belly dancers and more!

Summer Fun at the Brunel Fun days for children during the summer holidays! Beat the boredom and get the kids involved with lots of fun activities - for free - in Swindon!

Many top UK pole dancers have already confirmed they are performing which include Jaime Taylor, Sonia Allcock, Kristina Walker, Jo Dandridge, Miranda Goldring, Amy Williams and many more!

Calling all CBeebies fans! Popular CBeebies character Mike the Knight will be paying an extra special visit to Swindon to meet children at the Brunel Centre!

There will also be amazing aerial performances from some awesome aerialists which include Natalie Goode, Lauren Red, Kate Edwards, Steph Foster and more to be confirmed.

Tickets start from £5

This is happening on Friday 16th August, where Mike the Knight will be in The Plaza at 11.30am, 12.30pm, 1.30pm and 2.30pm with his final appearance at 3.30pm. For more details visit the Brunel Swindon on www.thebrunel.co.uk

Share a Coke in Swindon town centre this August Everyone in Swindon is invited down to Wharf Green on Sunday 4th August to Share a Coke with your friends and family!

At the M.E.C.A...

Chuckles Comedy Club Tuesday 27th August If you’re up for a laugh then get your tickets now! Show tickets are just £6 or for £12 enjoy a lovely meal courtesy of Fratello’s, as well as the show! Call 01793 251111 to book now.

Weird & Wonderful Saturday 31st August 6:30pm

This summer, Coke, Diet Coke and Coke Zero bottles with 250 of the nation’s most popular names on them have been flying off the shelves. From celebrities to excited shoppers, Share a Coke has sparked a summer of sharing. Now, you can Share a Coke with anyone you want! Coca-Cola is taking Share a Coke on tour and as part of its journey around the country, they’re bringing personalisation to Wharf Green in Swindon town centre from 9am-6pm on Sunday 4th August.

All you have to do is come down and tell the team who you want to Share a Coke with, to get your personalised bottle! For more information and a map of the tour route, visit www.shareacoke.co.uk.

For all the latest news and events visit www.swindontowncentre.co.uk 4

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Open Morning for retired and soon to retire residents U3A offers opportunities to keep your mind and body active, develop new skills, explore new horizons and meet new friends.

A Freshers’ Fair at St Joseph’s College, Ocotal Way, Swindon SN3 3LR on Saturday 31 August, from 10am to 12.30pm, will provide details of the wide choice of academic and recreational courses offered by U3A as well as the chance to meet group leaders.

There are over 100 groups meeting at various locations in and around Swindon. The annual fee is £30 which covers your attendance at most groups.

See more at: www.swindonu3a.org.uk

From Cape Town to Swindon - a true story of courage and redemption A fascinating biography of a policeman and journalist in South Africa during the pre-apartheid era is ready to be published by Cape Town born author Lindsay Tonkin, now of Gorse Hill, and his co-writer Anna Goral from Toothill.

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Anna and Lindsay with the manuscript of their book ready to be sent to a publisher

The life-story is all the more touching as it is about Lindsay’s father, E.W Tonkin, to commemorate the centenary of his birth and pay tribute to his pre-emptive civil rights work before his premature death in 1950. Lindsay also intends the story to raise awareness about the devastating dangers of prejudice and bigotry.

He said: “My father worked as a bobby on the beat in District Six of Cape Town during the 1930s, and later as a journalist for Cape Times. He died at the age of 37, the same year that the apartheid government passed the notorious Population Act which classified peoples of different colour and designated areas of the country in which they could live.”

This was particularly difficult for District 6 where people of all races and colour had lived in harmony since the

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Blunsdon, Swindon, SN26 7AS www.blunsdonhouse.co.uk

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area was founded in 1867.

Lindsay said: “My father campaigned vigorously for the rights of the coloured community, for freedom of the press and to expose the corruption and tyranny of officials. Sixteen years after his death, on 11 February 1966, the devastation he predicted came to pass in District Six, with thousands of coloured people being forcibly evicted from their homes which were then razed to the ground.”

Lindsay’s vision is to set up a charitable trust in his father’s memory and to engage his adoptive Swindon home in supporting the elderly men and women who are returning to District Six, as well as helping young children and the disabled through schools and community links.

Find out more at the Moonbeams and Shadows page on Facebook.

Quilters’ cash for three charities After a very successful quilting day held in Royal Wootton Bassett, West Swindon based Poppydown Quilters were able to present cheques to the Macmillan Nurses, The NSPCC and the 3’ms Memory Cafe in Royal Wootton Bassett.

Lynda Moore of Macmillan Nurses, Anna Keir, NSPCC and Dave Thompson, 3’ms swindonlink.com • August 2013 27

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Swindon Wide What’s On

Children & Family

Line Dance with

Midnight Cowboys Even Swindon Community Centre, Jennings Street

Tuesdays, 7.30pm - 10pm Also: Highworth Community Centre Tuesdays, 9.15am - 10.45am Coleview Community Centre Thursdays, 7pm - 10pm

Absolute beginners welcome

Please ring for more details Lewis or Kevin on 764732

Purton Farm Shop & Organic Veg Box Scheme Free delivery Veg, fruit, eggs, meat Butter, milk & more Shop open Tuesday-Sunday Church End, Purton Swindon SN5 4EB Tel: 01793 772287

www.purtonhouseorganics.co.uk

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Swindon Bowl Concerts

Wed 31 July to Sat 10 August The Very Hungry Caterpillar. Take a tractor ride to follow the story of the Very Hungry Caterpillar and learn about the life-cycle of a butterfly. Roves Farm. See the advert on page 21 Saturdays 10th & 24th, 10am to 4pm Meet the Railway Workers. Former engine drivers, firemen and railway workers bring the days of steam to life. Normal admission charges. STEAM Sunday 11th to Wednesday 21st Robin Hood. Join the adventure and help Robin Hood and his Merry Men. Make a special Robin Hood hat or hobby horse. Roves Farm. See the advert on page 21 Friday 16th, 6.30pm Babe the Sheep-Pig. Farmer Hoggett wins a piglet at the fair. Find out how he survives. Open-air show, bring a picnic and a blanket or chairs. £14; child £9; family £40, to book call 614837.

Lydiard Park Thursday 22nd to Sunday 25th, 7.30pm; Sat 2.30pm; Sun 1pm Our House. The Wyvern Theatre Summer Youth Project is a fast moving romantic comedy featuring all the hits of Madness. It tells the tale of Joe Casy and the two courses his life may take after committing a petty crime to impress his girlfriend. £12 - £14. Wyvern Thursday 22 August to Sunday 1 September Sunflowers. Free tractor rides to help Roves Farm’s very special sunflower to grow.

Make a sunflower in craft. Roves Farm. See the advert on page 21

Vintage & Arts & Crafts Fayre

The Victoria, Victoria Road Sunday 18 August, 12noon to 4pm Clothes, china & collectables, local arts & crafts, cakes, live music Free admission; for information email: redtracy@ntlworld.com

Venues Arts Centre Devizes Road. Tel: 614837 Lydiard House Lydiard Park. Tel: 770401 MECA Regent Circus SN1 1PR. Tel: 251111 Roves Farm Sevenhampton Nr Highworth. Tel: 763939 STEAM Kemble Drive. Tel: 466637 Swindon Dance Town Hall Studios, Regent Circus. Tel: 601700 Swindon Information Centre Central Library. Tel: 530328 Wyvern Theatre Tel: 524481 Confirm date, time & price with venue

Free films for children

At The Arts Centre, no booking required, under 14s must be accompanied by an adult Monday 12th, 10.30am The Golden Compass (PG). ​In a wondrous parallel world where witches soar the skies and ice bears rule the frozen North, one special girl is destined to hold the fate of the universe in her hands.

Tuesday 13th, 10.30am ​A Series Of Unfortunate Events (PG).

A thrilling misadventure involving 3 orphans and villainous actor called Count Olaf who wants their enormous fortune for himself.

Wednesday 14th, 10.30am ​ Toy Story 3 (U).

Woody, Buzz and the rest of the gang return along with a few new faces for a new adventure.

Thursday 15th, 10.30am The Chronicles Of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe (PG).

C.S.Lewis’ timeless and beloved epic adventure.

Thursday 15th, 2.30pm Les Miserables (12). An enthralling story of broken dreams and unrequited love, passion, sacrifice and redemption.

Friday 16th, 10.30am ​The Cat In The Hat (PG). A wonderful Dr.Seuss treat!

Friday 16th, 2.30pm​ Rock Of Ages (12). It’s 1987 and Sherrie Christian arrives in Los Angeles from Oklahoma with dreams of becoming a famous singer.

Monday 19th, 10.30am Rango (PG). Get ready to tango with Rango.

Tuesday 20th, 10.30am ​The Muppets (U). Kermit, Piggy, Fozzie, Animal and Gonzo join forces to save the Muppet theatre from an evil oil baron who wants to tear it down.

Wednesday 21st, 10.30am Beauty and The Beast (U). Disney’s classic tale.

Thursday 22th, 10.30am ​Tangled (U). Once upon a time, a single drop of sunlight fell to Earth and became a golden flower filled with magical properties.

Friday 23rd, 10.30am Hercules (U) After imprisoning the Titans beneath the ocean, the Greek gods Zeus and his wife Hera have a son named Hercules.

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Talk

Saturday 3rd, gates 6.30pm Retro Fever featuring The Real Thing, Alvin Stardust and Heatwave. Swindon Bowl Concert, see advert on page 28 Thursday 29th to Saturday 31st, 7.30pm & Sat 2.30pm Bugle Boy. A heartwarming tale of the life and loves of music icon Glenn Miller featuring all the famous tunes. £17.50 to £21.50. Wyvern

Sunday 11 August, 2pm Dig For Victory. Hear how land was used to grow fruit and vegetables during WW2. £10, including walled garden entry, to book call 01793 770401.

Lydiard Park

Fundraising Table Top Sale Saturday 10 August and every second Saturday of the month 10am to 12noon Tables for hire £5 Call Ann Bunce on 01793 771131 All Saints Community Hall Southbrook Street, off Ferndale Road

Swindon Wide What’s On

Music

Exhibition Until November 160 Camp: The Lydiard Park Prisoner of War Camp. Photographs, maps and stories about the inmates, doctors and guards at the PoW hospital camp . Normal admission charges. Lydiard House Monday 19 Aug to Friday 6 Sept The Guild of Wiltshire Artists.

Framed artworks to view or buy as well as a collection of original postcard size sketches and paintings available for purchase at £5 each.

Free entry. Town Hall, Cross Hayes, Malmesbury, SN16 9BZ www.guildofwiltshireartists.com

There’s plenty of action and adventure to be had at the Steam Museum this summer.

And to make those pound coins last longer, children aged 3 to 16 years can visit for just £1 each, from 20 July to 1 September, when accompanied by a full-paying adult.

Up to four children can visit for the special price and under threes go free.

In the July Link there was a special Kids for a Quid voucher for Steam. If you missed it you can download one from www.steam-museum.org.uk As well as Steam’s Stop, Look and Listen fun trail to follow, children really get to use their imagination as they test their skills on the museum’s train driving simulator, climb aboard

Lode Star and control the signals in the GWR Signal Box. The story-telling displays take visitors underneath the 80 ton Caerphilly Castle locomotive, left, inside the GWR buffet car and there’s even the chance to have a go on the working vintage slot machines at the Seaside Pier.

Younger children will love the dedicated play areas and there’s a summer holiday trail to count how many seaside objects they can find.

And for creative fun, don’t miss the Smiley Cats Club for 5 to 11 year olds every Wednesday and Thursday morning throughout the summer holidays.

See details at www.smileycats.co.uk www.steam-museum.org.uk

Rowington for Shrewley layout – Picture courtesy of BRM

All aboard the Summer ticket offer at Steam

The Big gWR evenT of The YeaR

Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 September 2013 10.00 am to 5.00 pm

Celebrate the UK’s best model railways at STeaM – Museum of the great Western Railway Join Pete Waterman and hornby for the ultimate display of model railway layouts, traders, steam vehicles and hands-on modelling demonstrations

Dr Richard Beeching: Hero or Villian?

Come and see our photographic exhibition of the lost gWR railway stations STeaM - Museum of the great Western Railway | fire fly avenue | Swindon | Sn2 2DY Tel: (01793) 466637 | www.steam-museum.org.uk www.facebook.com/steammuseum @steam_museum Key supporter:

swindonlink.com • August 2013 29 STEAM 1_4 advert.indd 1 19 - 48 August 13.indd 29

17/07/2013 09:52 17/07/2013 16:55

DO YOUR FEET NEED CARE AND ATTENTION? ROBERT S TAYLOR MCFHP MAFHP

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Link Centre holds open day on 31 August Rink reopens on 19 August

Following a year of refurbishment including a new roof, repainting the external structure, retiling the swimming, pool and a brand new ice plant for the skating rink, Link Centre holds a open day on Saturday 31 August, 9am to 4pm.

There will be free try-out sessions, inductions, displays and demonstrations for all ages. Details will be published in the September Link distributed the weekend of 24/25 August.

There will be ‘soft’ opening of the new look ice rink on 19 August.

Rink refurb. James Brett smoothing out the 240 tons of sand laid over the new concrete slab containing 9 miles of pipework to keep the ice pad frozen

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Steeplechase without a horse in sight The beautiful Barbury Castle international cross country horse trial course is used by the cream of the world’s equestrians, and now you can run the course, including the water jumps.

But on Sunday 4 August runners but not riders will take to the course to raise money for Rotary charities.

There is a 2.5 mile course for ‘novices’‚ at 11.15am, and a longer 5 mile course for ‘thoroughbreds’ at 12noon.

There is ample free parking, refreshments and panoramic views so that friends and family can watch the runners making their way around the course.

The cost to run is £10 in advance for the 2.5 race (£13 on the day), and £12 in advance for the 5 mile race (£15 on the day). Minimum age of 16 years.

The event is organised by the Rotary Clubs of Marlborough & Swindon Phoenix. Last year’s event raised over £1,570.

Details and advance registration at www.horseless-steeplechase.org.uk

Supermarine Under 14 rugby players sport Rotary logo

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Rise and recline furniture Adjustable Beds

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Cosyfeet shoes and slippers Footcare appointments

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01793 815083

Next to Tesco – Free level parking www.thehearingandmobilitystore.co.uk

Photo: Richard Wintle www.calyxpix.com

Swindon's Supermarine Under 14s rugby team is now wearing a new logo on their shirts, thanks to the Rotary Club of Swindon Thamesdown.

The squad is pictured with Rotary Club past president Bob Barrett. Find out about the Under 14s team and other teams that play for Supermarine RFC at South Marston by calling 01793 824828. www.supermarinerugby.co.uk/home www.rotaryclubofswindonthamesdown.org.uk

30 swindonlink.com • August 2013

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19/07/2013 14:37

Football and netball players wanted

Last season Brinkworth Cats Under 12s FC increased from one team to two due to the number of players joining, but they need to increase the size of the squad as they move into the Under 13s age group.

The club welcomes enthusiastic children of all playing abilities. Training sessions take place on Saturdays, 9am to 10.30am, at Ballard’s Ash Sports Ground, Royal Wootton Bassett. All coaches are at least FA Level 1 qualified and all are CRB checked For details call Martyn Priddle on 07712 078947or mail: mpriddle@te.com www.pitchero.com/clubs/brinkworthcatsfc Ferndale Netball Club which is over 100 years old, is recruiting players for league competition or social games.

During the summer the club trains at Dorcan and from September returns to Lydiard Park Academy in Grange Park on Mondays, 7.30pm to 9.30pm.

Players of any age, experience and interest are welcome. Contact Joy Blake: 01793 872237.

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Corns, Calluses, Verrucas, Thick Nail or Ingrowing Toenails

Burmah Netball Club now fields four teams in the Swindon & District Netball League playing in different divisions.

Carter Moore LLP continues to sponsor the club which has decided to support an annual charity. In 2013-2014 players will be fundraising for Swindon Children’s Cancer Charity Movement - CALM. Burmah welcomes new players of any ability and will commence training at Lydiard Park Academy on Wednesday evenings, 7.30am to 9.15pm, from 13 August. For details call Sharon Ashman on 07982 782020.

Holiday football coaching courses

Swindon Town Football in the Community is running a series of holiday development courses in and around Swindon.

They are an excellent way of coaching young people in the basic skills and understanding required to play football, whilst encouraging children to be social, meet new people and be fit, healthy and active.

For details of courses and costs call STFiCT on 01793 421303.

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Free biking open day on 14 August Basepoint Swindon is hosting a free open to all day of fun activities in association with Swindon Travel Choices on Wednesday 14 August, 10.30am to 3.30pm.

‘Dr Bike’ will be offering free bike Basepoint Business Centre is to be servicing and there’s the chance to found on Rivermead Drive, Westlea, pedal the popular Smoothie Bike to Swindon SN5 7EX blend your own healthy drink. www.basepoint.co.uk Also learn more about using Swindon’s car club so that you don’t have to buy and maintain one.

Basepoint cycling tenants and staff, from left, Marion Morris, Mark Lemon, Sue Williams, centre manager Ly n Ch a p m a n , Adrian Moss

Bike maintenance classes Swindon Travel Choices runs free cycle maintenance courses across the town to get more people cycling and reduce congestion on Swindon’s roads.

They cover basic maintenance, lubricating, repairing punctures, adjusting brakes, adjusting gears and checking the chain, changing brake pads and cables. The dates for August are: 17th, 9am to 12noon or 1pm to 4pm - Park South 31st, 9am to 4pm - Roughmoor To book a place mail: cycle.medic@btinternet.com.

See the advert on page 47 for more information on helping people consider the options on travelling around the town, other than using a car.

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32 swindonlink.com • August 2013

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18/07/2013 09:03

Cyclists wave the flag for Swindon Guide Dogs in Paris While cycling fans were glued to the TV to see the climax of the centenary Tour de France on 21 July with, hopefully, Chris Froome winning the overall race and sprinter Mark Cavendish storming home on the Champs-Élysées to make it UK double for the second year running, a team from Swindon cycled over to Paris for a ringside view.

Eighteen athletes from the Les Slinn Fitness Centre departed Swindon on 17 July to make the trip, and thanks to a competition in the February Link, they’re raising money for Swindon Guide Dogs.

At the time of departure the team had raised £3,000 towards their target. “We’re aiming for £5,000 to fund a puppy to be trained as a guide dog; I’m confident we’ll get there,” said Les. “We’ve had great support from a lot of people including shoppers when we cycled a static bike at Asda Walmart in North Swindon and also Tesco in Allez l’Equipe Les Slinn. Pete Berry, Liam Guest, Andy Willis, Ian McCabe, Nicola Octal Way.” He added that the whole team are Chapman, Les Slinn, Adrian Quinton and Mandy Pilsworth “They’ve worked hard over the past keen to exceed the target after the their bikes will be secured safely so death of Joy who was the companion they can watch the first ever night few months with static rides to help of Alan Fletcher, the chair of Swindon time finale of the Tour followed by them raise the money and also their Guide Dogs. “She was the sweetest a giant party with the hundreds of fitness. We wish them all the best for the ride.” animal you could imagine. Losing thousands who turn out.

“Guide Dogs rely solely upon donaher must have been very difficult for Before departure Alan Fletcher Alan, so we’re inspired to do well by said: “Swindon Guide Dogs for the tions to help visually impaired people the charity.”

Blind would like to thank the team to get back their mobility, freedom, independence and confidence.”

When the riders arrive in Paris for supporting us.

You never know when you’ll need the air ambulance to fly a mercy mission Swindon Road Club has been fundraising in support of the Wiltshire Air Ambulance after one of their members suffered serious injuries in a crash on a ride late last summer.

The Air Ambulance was called and social night at The King’s Hotel out to transport the injured rider to in Old Town.

Bristol’s Frenchay Hospital where Mark Chick, secretary, Swindon he was treated and has since made a Road Club said: “We all hope we full recovery. never need the Air Ambulance, but With generous support of club when we did, we were very glad it was members and several local businesses, there to carry our injured clubmate including Hargroves Cycles, Swindon swiftly to hospital. We wanted to say Cycles, Nationwide, Clock Cleats a proper thank you by raising funds to and Cranks and Optimum Sports help ensure the continued availability Massage Therapy, £925 was raised of this great service which receives no from refreshments at race promo- government funding.” tions and a raffle at the club awards www.swindon-rc.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 3rd 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

• Alan’s 4 Joy appeal - see page 36

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.

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

Registered with GCC

Wiltshire Air Ambulance head of fundraising Caroline Corrigan with club members Michelle Williams and Mark Chick. Photo: Richard Wintle www.calyxpix.com

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Th In of C Sep disc com Th chal C Th lect the Priz the C T wall to c E info see

Go wild in water Prospect Hospice is urging people with a love for swimming to try something wild, its first ever open water swimming challenge on 10 August.

The Big Swim takes place at Bowmoor Sailing Lake near Lechlade.

There is a swim for all levels, ranging from 500m, 1.3km or a 3.8km route.

Prospect Hospice events fundraiser Genevieve Arney said: “We are hoping Swindon’s swimmers will come out in force to take part. The Big Swim is the first open water charity challenge held in this area.”

Register for a place at: www. prospect-hospice.net/bigswim

North Swindon show-jumping star seeks sponsor Ten year old Red Oaks primary pupil Tahnia Jones is proving to be a young star of the equestrian world, coming second in the Pony of the Year Show in April and reaching the finals of both the Royal International Horse Show and the Horse of the Year Show to be held later this year.

Explaining Tahnia’s riding career so far her Mum Julie said: “We got Tahnia a loan pony when she was five and she started showing it, but she got bored and we found the judging to be very subjective.

“When she started jumping she absolutely loved it and the partnership she built with her pony is really strong. Dandy is an honest little pony who wants to do his job. Tahnia has got a lot of belief in him and always goes out wanting to win the class.”

Tahnia is dedicated to her sport and

goes riding every day after school. But it’s Julie who gets up each morning to do the mucking out. She said: “I leave the house at 5am and get back by quarter to seven to wake Tahnia for school. It’s hard work and expensive.

“As parents we both work fulltime and run two other businesses

to finance Tahnia’s riding. It would be great to find a sponsor who could support Tahnia, especially with some high profile events coming up this year.”

Contact Tahnia’s Dad Lee Jones on 07809 142152 or mail: leevjones@ sky.com

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

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Matt motivates at his old school

Following a suggestion by Swindon Link, Matt Fiddes, former Greendown Community School student until 1996, martial arts businessman and one time bodyguard to Michael Jackson, recently made his first return visit to his old school in Grange Park, now Lydiard Park Academy.

The following day on 16 July, Matt attended the school sports day at the County Ground athletics track to give a motivational speech and his South African born wife Moniqe performed some of the songs that have made her a star in her home country.

Matt left Greendown without qualifications yet with a passion to start his own martial arts school, although his careers advisor didn’t think much of the idea. Four years later he had made a million and was The discipline was really impressive.”

At the County Ground, Moniqe, associating with Michael Jackson and who is expecting their first child in Britney Spears.

He said: “It was amazing to go November, sang five songs in the back to my old school, although it burning heat in front of 1,000 stuhas grown and been changed around dents before they answered dozens of so much since I attended. I was a bit questions about travelling the world nervous about going back but what and being with famous people. A I noticed so much was the smart uni- young girl asked Matt if he would be form and politeness of the students. her bodyguard if she became famous.

Afterwards they were mobbed by students wanting autographs.

Matt added: “Myself and Moniqe love inspiring young people to do better; it was an honour to be invited to take part in the academy sports event.”

Photos: Richard Wintle www.calyxpix.com

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Tregoze pupils explore Europe Pupils and staff from Tregoze Primary School have been travelling across Europe to study healthy, active lifestyles with partner schools from France, Italy, Sweden, Turkey, Spain, Romania, Germany and Poland as part of the Comenius education project.

They took The Link on their trip to Brittany in June. Host family Veronique and Mark Ayers are pictured with their children and Tregoze pupils Zach, Ellis, Holly and Alisha.

Garden project grows connection between Swindon and the Gambia Pupils and staff at Peatmoor Primary School received a very special visit in July from Mr Molifa Daffeh, head teacher of Pirang School in the Gambia, with which the Swindon school has a growing connection.

Molifa Daffeh with Sarah Adams and Elaine Jackson and pupils in the garden

Describing Mr Daffeh’s visit teacher Sarah Adams said: “He communicated very well with the children and gave us all an insight into how the pace of school life in the Gambia differs from here. He had never travelled before and he found everything he saw in Swindon fascinating, particularly washing machines. He also asked me where our chalk is because he’d never seen interactive white boards before.”

Peatmoor Primary became involved with educational visits to the Gambia two years ago when Sarah travelled there with a group of teachers from Swindon.

However, following the school’s successful application for a Connecting Classrooms reciprocal visit grant from the British Council, Peatmoor and Pirang have embarked on a joint project to compare gardening approaches and how different foods are grown in each country.

Molifa said: “I’m so amazed by the rich resources at Peatmoor. They have wonderful facilities; it’s almost

impossible to compare.

“But the curiosity of the children is the same all over the world and the gardening project is a very good way to learn about each other. The children at Peatmoor have been very anxious to learn about Africa; they have a very open and tolerant outlook.

“I was able to open their eyes and put right some misconceptions about Africa and also my country.

For example, as there are ten tribal languages across the nation, our national language is English.

“I have had a superb visit, I’ve learnt a lot and am taking back a lot of ideas to my school.”

Sarah will take some of the children’s work with her to Pirang when she visits in October.

Commenting on the long term nature of the connection Sarah said: “We certainly intend this to be a relationship which develops over time. All the children are very enthusiastic and it is good that their global awareness is increasing.” swindonlink.com • August 2013 35

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Appeal to get you running, dancing, swimming and jumping to remember guide dog Joy Alan Fletcher, chair of Swindon Guide Dogs, is setting out to raise £5,000 to train a puppy and name her Joy in memory of his beloved guide dog who died suddenly on 6 May. Alan had worked her as normal the “Joy was my first guide dog , and jump4Joy, swim4Joy - in fact you can day before and she showed no sign of without a shadow of a doubt she gave do anything 4Joy, or just donate4Joy. being unwell. However the following me my life back for nearly eight years.” “£5,000 pays for the first year morning she was taken ill and a scan Alan and Joy were seen all over of training for a guide dog puppy. revealed she had inoperable cancer Swindon at fundraising events, talks Hopefully when fully qualified, Joy and had to be put to sleep. at community groups and at almost the puppy will give another visually Alan was completely devastated by every school in the town, spreading impaired person the confidence and the sudden turn of events. He said: the word about the work of guide independence which my Joy gave “Not only have I lost my best friend dogs for the blind. to me” and loyal companion, I’ve lost my Now, in recognition of the work Donate online at: www.justgiving. eyes and therefore my independence, that Joy achieved, Alan is setting up com/4-Joy or contact Alan Fletcher mobility and confidence. a tribute fund in her name. The aim is with your fundraising ideas on 01793 to raise £5,000 to name a puppy Joy. 827589 or mail: shiralan@fletcas.

He added: “The fund is called freeserve.co.uk 4joy, so you can run4Joy, dance4Joy, Janet’s Joy with Alan on a visit to Isambard swim4Joy, havecoffee4Joy, ride4Joy, School in 2009

Puppy Skool

Janet’s puppy training tips on YouTube

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

Swindon dog and puppy behaviour expert, Janet Garrett, from Haydon Wick, has advised dog food manufacturer Bob & Lush on a film about training puppies.

Janet is a qualified member of both the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT) and the Coape Association of Pet Behaviourists and Trainers. She also holds the advanced diploma in Companion Animal Behaviour and Training - the first qualification in the behaviour profession to be accredited

by Ofqual.

The film called My Best Start in Life can be viewed at www.youtu.be/ UlER71wmbf0

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

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

Janet Garrett DipCAPBT Dip.dog.psy

Tel: 01793 727158

janet@janetspuppyskool.co.uk

Right, Janet with Mack at her Janet’s Puppy Skool training centre

Thameswood Vets Making Life Better

Make your new pup a

VIP

From just £45.18* your puppy will receive: ★ Full health check and 2 week vaccine course ★ Monthly youth club visits for the first year ★ 4 weeks free insurance ★ Free flea treatment ★ Free bag of food ★ Free socialisation parties ★ 3 Free nursing consultations ★ Special offers at selected pet shops ★ 10% discount on all food and retail toys, leads and collars So why not become a Thameswood VIP and join a practice that has been trusted for generations, where you’ll always see a familiar friendly face and where your pet will receive the highest level of care and expertise *For Pet Health Club members

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

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

Find us on Facebook

www.thameswoodvets.co.uk 36 swindonlink.com • August 2013

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From Sweden to Swindon to work on a farm and run around a park Why would a family from Sweden give up seeing the sights of London to join over 300 runners in Lydiard Park for the weekly 5km Swindon park run?

Ylva Gullberg, 19, said she had Shaw Farm if they promised to run the come to Swindon to work as a volunSwindon parkrun 9am on a Saturday. teer at Lower Shaw Farm through the “They’ve not done much running WWOOF organisation (Worldwide but my father Kalle, my mother AnOpportunities on Organic Farms). “I nica, and my sister Hanna all joined stayed on the farm for nearly three in with hundreds of others in Lydiard weeks and it was a wonderful experiPark. It was amazing. We all were very ence for me. impressed with the organization, the “One of the first things I heard joyful atmosphere, and the nice park about was the Swindon parkrun to run in. when farm manager Matt Holland “There was such a cheerful spirit, enthusiastically said: ‘You look like everybody was welcome to join in and you could be a runner.’ have a good time - no matter if you “And when he heard that my parwere an elite runner or just jog for fun. ents and sister were coming over to It was also a great feeling that people at International park runners from left, Emilie Robert from France, also a Lower England to explore and to be tourists, Shaw Farm wwoofer, Kalle, Ylva, Hanna and Annica Gullberg and Matt Holland. other parkruns all over England were he said that they could stay at Lower Photo: Richard Wintle www.calyxpix.com running at the same time.”

Yvla also said she loved living and working on the farm. “Andrea and Jelly day: 1 August Creative dance workshops in Peatmoor Swindon Jelly next brings together Matt have done a wonderful job 6, 7 & 8 August and 20, 21 & 22 August, 10am to 3pm home workers, freelancers and small making it such a living and flourishing DancePlus Creative Steps holiday sessions at Peatmoor Primary School, for business entrepreneurs for a day of place with lots of activities for children children aged 7 to 11 years, are three day theme based workshops where co-working on Thursday 1 August, children can develop their technical skills, learn movement sequences and 9.30am to 5pm, at Basepoint Business as well as adults. I tried yoga for the first time and the Wednesday Comhave the chance to express their own ideas through choreography. They are Centre, Rivermead Drive.

Work on your own stuff and also munity Café is also a lovely place to suitable for both boys and girls. together in a relaxed, informal, en- meet new people and enjoy marvelDance activities are a great way for children to develop physical skills such as vironment to maximise creativity, lous homemade pastries. balance, co-ordination and motor skills in a fun, safe and creative environment. interaction and ideas sharing.

“My visit to Swindon and also my The cost is £45 for a 3 day workshop, siblings £35. Children should bring a Attendance is free but the day does family’s was memorable for all of us.” packed lunch and drinks. For more details or to book a place contact Sarah not include refreshments.

Gaustad on 07984035985 or mail: sarah@danceplus.uk.com www.danceplus.uk.com

Register for a place @ www.swindonjelly.eventbrite.co.uk

• Parkrun is free to take part in. Details at www.parkrun.org.uk/swindon

The clean you expect The service you deserve

®

10%OFF VOUCHER 3 in 1 clean

For details: Please phone our free phone number

Cleaning your soft furnishings with Fibrefresh Guarding your furnishings against bacteria with Hygienilac Protecting your furnishings from stains with Fabritec

We provide a wide range of cleaning services

Free Phone 0800 783 7713 Your Local ServiceMaster Clean Franchise Email: enquiries@homefabriccare.co.uk www.homefabriccare.co.uk swindonlink.com • August 2013 37

19 - 48 August 13.indd 37

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HERITAGE TREE CARE

Blackwood JillGarden Magic

PROFESSIONAL TREE SURGEONS

Royal Horticultural Society Silver Medal

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

Hard & Soft Landscaper Patios & Decking Panelled & Close Board Fencing Hedge & Shrub Pruning Regular Lawn Cuttings & Maintenance Free Quotes & Advice

stevebrander@hotmail.co.uk 01793 874403 / 07949 896349 www.brandnewgardens.co.uk

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

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

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

Call today for a free quote

01793 790210 07971 566880

01793 854943 or 07809075792 www.lindenfencing.co.uk

Email: treeman@iwalding.freeserve.co.uk

LANDSERVE

CLIFF WHITEWAY SERVICES

Garden Maintenance & Landscaping

For all your home & garden needs

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

Patios Decking Paths Turfing Walling Fencing Driveways For a free quote call Cliff on

Tel: 01793 731418

No Job Too Small. All works insured

Call Martin Emery MI Hort.

Mobile: 07808 355487

for free quotation on 01793 703306 or Mobile 07771 956294

Established locally for over 8 years References available

Master Garden Machinery

Sales, Service, Repair Lawn & Hedge Cutting Maintenance General Garden Tidy Patios • Turfing Give your garden a makeover Call John Dowell on 07892 436198 or 01793 951076 j.dowell@live.co.uk

Comprehensive service Qualified staff Fully insured

Briggs & Stratton, John Deere, Stihl, Honda, Hayter and many more We also service and repair any make of power tool Collection & delivery service

GAZEBO

LANDSCAPING

GENERAL GARDEN MAINTENANCE & CONSTRUCTION ESTABLISHED 1992

• •

•

• •

Fencing - closeboard, panels etc.

Drives & patios - slabs, concrete, shingle Patio cleaning, grass cutting, gardens tidied up Turfing, grass seeding Ponds & pergolas

Tel: 07522 282 188

Tel: 07711 253508

www.mastergardenmachinery.com

freshwind@blackberry.orange.co.uk

FREETH FENCING & GARDEN SERVICES LTD Est. 1990 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

38 swindonlink.com • August 2013

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West gardens appreciated in the rain In contrast to July’s scorcher the weather was miserable in June for the West Swindon Open Garden’s weekend, but visitors turned out in record numbers to appreciate the hard work of gardeners of Shaw and Nine Elms.

They also brought a ray of sunshine to two Swindon charities by contributing £2,031.32 in entry tickets and raffle purchases.

Participating gardeners voted on the charities to support and agreed proceeds would be split with 65 per cent going to SMASH youth mentoring and 35 per cent allocated to Prospect Hospice.

SMASH has been sent £1,320.36 and Prospect received £710.96 in Refreshing volunteers, from left, Lesley Dredge, Eleanor Snowden Antje Baker, Jenny Machin, Jackie Hughes, Jean Haywood addition to £166.77 dontated to collection jars and another £213.50 via an employer’s matched fundraising.

D.A. DRIVEWAYS & PATIOS ❐ Block Paving ❐ Landscaping ❐ Fencing ❐ Decorative Stone ❐ General Maintenance For a professional and affordable service, free consultation and written quotation

Tel: 01793 878062 or 07866 523898

Tidying up communities

Freshbrook Brownies took advantage of great weather in early July to do a litter sweep around Freshbrook Village Centre.

Not only did the girls collect loads of rubbish, they were rewarded with the Brownies Well Done badge.

Toothill Village Centre received a big spruce up with help from pupils from Hazelwood Academy Primary School, residents and Toothill community centre volunteers who were joined by Swindon Council neighbourhood wardens and Police Community Support Officers from the West Swindon Neighbourhood Police Team.

Homebase Distribution in Swindon and colleagues at the North Swindon store donated paint, gardening tools and plants, whilst Asda and the One Stop shop at Toothill Centre contributed refreshments.

Community facilitator Gail Light, who organised the event, said: “It was a blazing day but all the volunteers - some who came from outside the area - worked really hard to make the area look nicer. Weeds were dug up and overgrown branches cut back, benches were painted and the children picked up loads of litter. I really hope residents appreciate the tremendous effort put in.”

Russell Robertson, Homebase operations manager said he hoped that a team of colleagues will return to the centre to plant shrubs close to the community centre.

The clean up team expressing their pride in keeping Toothill tidy

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

TEL: 01793 536784 SANSUM SAND & GRAVEL SUPPLY TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC AND TRADE CUSTOMERS

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

www.sansums.co.uk swindonlink.com • August 2013 39

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ASHDOWN BATHROOMS & KITCHENS

Design to Installation • PLUMBING • CARPENTRY • TILING • ELECTRICS

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

No Job Too Small

Call Mark: 01793 887766 Mob: 07979 267757 www.ashdownbk.co.uk

FREE DESIGN CONSULTATION & ESTIMATE

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

Also hinges and locks.

Call: 01793 854448 or 07976 219671

J.E.B. CONTRACTORS uuu Specialists in DRIVEWAYS BLOCK PAVING PATIOS WALLS

Call 01793 731979 or 07979 865620

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

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

NO JOB TOO SMALL

Mobile: 07985 195893 Tel: 01793 320447

Mob: 07956 301957 Tel: 01793 348597

Also general plumbing, tiling & plastering

Electrician 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

www.haynesconstruction.org.uk

RETIRED TRADES ASSOCIATES Electrical (Part P registered) Plumbing Painting & Decorating Tiling • Plastering Carpentry • Cabinet Making • Reliable • Trustworthy • Affordable

Call Andrew on 07718 022201

• Misted/broken units?

• Handles replaced • Dropped doors • Patio rollers • Hinges and locks

DOUBLE GLAZING REPAIRS Contact Adam for free advice and quote: 01793 940089 07729 703898 upvc-swindon@hotmail.co.uk

Painting & Decorating Services Residential and Commercial City & Guilds Qualified FREE no obligation quotations Very competitive rates Reliable & friendly local company established 10 years

To book an appointment call 01793 877677or email: office@enlan.co.uk Leaze Barn, Hook Street, Lydiard Tregoze, Swindon

Semi-retired Plumber 24hr emergency call out • 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

• 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

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

The Plumber you’ll Recommend!

217129

24 YEARS EXPERIENCE

Installation & Servicing NG & LPG ✓ Boiler & System Upgrades ✓ Breakdown & Maintenance ✓ Bathrooms, Showers & Wet Rooms ✓ Power Flushing / Descaling ✓ For ALL your plumbing, heating & gas requirements call Assured on

07845 90 80 60 or 01793 700 820

www.assured-plumbing.co.uk

RepaiRs, installation, Maintenance FRee Quotes! excellent seRvice!

Call Justin:

Tel: 01793 871 593 Mob: 07503 210 748

justinhallplumbing@gmail.com

Haydon Wick Heating Services

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

Tel: 01793 748333 Mob: 07733897039

hwheating@googlemail.com

• 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

40

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D E Carpentry

Miller Interiors

Approved Electrician Approved Electrician Part PartPPRegistered Registered

For all your carpentry needs

Bedrooms, Kitchens, Studies

• Extra Sockets/lights

k Door hanging

• Extra Sockets/lights • Fuse Board Upgrade • Testing andInspection Inspection Testing and Complete Rewires • Complete Rewires • No job too small!

k Kitchen fitting

•

k Real wood and laminate flooring

•

• No job too small!

k Fitted wardrobes k 15 years experience

Call 01793 514069 or 07885 972172 e: ellisj10@sky.com

Connected Electrical Electrical && Connected Property Services Property Services

Call Neil now for a free, competitive quote on

0800 1357063 or 07967 155502

Email: connectedelectrical01@gmail.com

www.delliscarpentry.co.uk

Want your wall or floor tiles fitted?

Then call

TILEfix for a free quotation to get them fixed and grouted with the minimum of fuss Tel: 01793 495364 Mob: 07767 242124 Email: tilefix4u@aol.com

Earthmoving Services • 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

www.earthmovingservices.co.uk

07766 565458 01793 432512

MAKE YOUR HOUSE A HOME

GASTECH

\

WILLING & ABLE

THE INDEPENDENT GAS SPECIALISTS

PROPERTY SERVICES • 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

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

142573

SERVICE CONTRACT SPECIALISTS

FOR GAS SERVICE CALL 01793 848800

For friendly advice call

01793 324026 or 07533 749104

6 Templars Way Industrial Est, Marlborough Rd, W. Bassett SN4 7SR www.gastechwilts.co.uk

www.willingandablepropertyservices.co.uk

ELECTRICIAN

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

Call Pete

Tel: 01793 932570 Mob: 07790 283186

B O U N DA RY WINDOWS

Providing High Quality Windows and Doors to Swindon for over 20 years • Windows • Conservatories • Doors • Fascias • Guttering • • • • • • •

Tel: 01793 539944 Mob: 07918 023361 www.millerinteriors.co.uk

mail: info@benchmark-construction.co.uk www.benchmark-construction.co.uk

West Swindon Plumbing

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.

Providing personal service since 1993

• Project Management • Alterations / Renovations • Garden walls / Patios / Decking • Conservatory bases / Porches No job too big or small!

Fully insured. 18 years experience

Call Geoff : 07824 314080 oror Tel: 07824 314080 01793 703308 01793 703308

Email: connectedelectrical01@gmail.com

Bespoke design & installation

by Ian Miller

Extension & Garage Conversion Specialists

• Fuse Board Upgrade

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

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

www.boundary-windows.co.uk

Call Darren on 01793 629 629

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

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

01793 878636

T.

523887

Power Flus hing Agent

www.CentraHeat.co.uk

CentraHeat.co.uk

www.

07739 357617

M.

41

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Advert.indd 1

02/02/2011 09:58 18/07/2013 15:32

CARPENTRY

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

Exterior Painting

• Interior/exterior painting and decorating • Wallpaper • Tiling • Coving

• Laminate flooring

• Doors & skirting

replacement

• Kitchen • Bathroom

internal alterations

Windows, doors, soffits, fascia and walls Quality workmanship All interior decoration too 30 yrs experience Friendly reliable service References available Full public liability insurance

Kevin Cook Tel: 814833 or 07776 142981

DOUBLE GLAZING

ELECTRICIAN

“only Quality has a future” • Window replacements • Misted unit replacement • Window repairs • Window cleaning Call 0800 193 0697 or 07935 480112 www.kevsqualitywindowservices.co.uk

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

Call Glen on: 01793 487450 07774 841879

email: grservices@hotmail.co.uk

www.grservicesswindon.co.uk

Call Andy: 01793 729354

or 07900 835116

01793 876600 07748 964433

Approved Plumber

mjplumbing64@gmail.com

DECORATOR FREE ESTIMATES INTERIOR & EXTERIOR REDUCTIONS FOR OAPs

Call 01793 334823 or 07788 572043

RJ PeaRce Plumbing & Heating ltd

SAFE & SHAW

Over 20 years experience in plumbing & heating work

✓ EXTRA SOCKETS / LIGHTS ✓ SECURITY LIGHTING/FIRE ALARMS ✓ GARDEN LIGHTING & OUTDOOR SOCKETS ✓ SHOWERS/COOKERS INSTALLED ✓ FUSE BOARD REPLACEMENT ✓ COMPLETE RE-WIRING

Please call Paul Eastham on 07769 883717

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

Free estimates

HEATING & PLUMBING

ELECTRICAL SERVICES

FREE QUOTATIONS, NO OBLIGATION

darrenbakerstewart@rocketmail.com www.stylishbathrooms.biz

DECORATOR & CARPENTRY

DECORATOR

For a free no obligation quote call Paul on 07775 840236 or 01793 321981

Kev’s Quality Window Services

01793 320773 07779 006360

De cor ato r

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

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

r&

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

❉ Quality bathroom suites

ain te

Specialists in kitchens bathrooms and wetrooms

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

& Heating

EP

Creation Born Of Perfection

Plumbing

ID

MJP Home Creations

Stylish Bathrooms

BATHROOMS

PR

BATHROOMS

BATHROOMS AND KITCHENS

• Central heating • Bathrooms & showers • Competitive rates

7 YEAR GUARANTEE

on Worcester Bosch Cdi, Ri and Si boilers until 31 December 2013

• All work guaranteed • No job too small

Accredited Installer

For further details call Richard on 01793 879156 or 07747 723606

KITCHEN & BATHROOM SERVICES THE INDEPENDENT FITTER

Steve George, local tradesman with 30 years experience, able to supply and fit any kitchen or bathroom, or can fit the customer’s own purchase • Free design and survey • All types of worktops fitted including granite Delivering the complete fitting solution: wooden floors, electrics, plumbing, plastering, tiling

Tel: 01793 874480 Mobile: 07860 760364

203455

PLASTERING BSJ PLASTERING & DECORATING SERVICES

All areas of Plastering, Decorating and Refurbishment undertaken

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

Please contact Brian Jones

Mobile: 07976 572905 Home: 01793 725834

Professional, reliable and friendly service www.swindonplasterer.com

42

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BUILDING SERVICES

BLINDS

BATHROOMS

Paul Rhind 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 38 years experience

Professional Painter & Decorator Wallpaper Specialist Coving • Dado Rails • Tiling

Call for Free on 0800 6444266 or tel: 07976 885203

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

GBD Services www.trevorwyse.com

HEATING & PLUMBING

01793 979282 or 07453 966627

(Household Maintenance) Handyman

Plumbing & Heating Services t Central heating installations t All Plumbing work undertaken t Servicing & repairs t Bathroom Installations All at competitive rates Alec McKay Tel: 01793 873697 Mobile: 07963 953439 E-mail: alecmckay@sky.com

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

A CHANGE OF COLOUR

• 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

✓ 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

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

Call Nick on 07973 872266

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

Call Stuart on 01793 727659 or 07809 368051

HEATING & PLUMBING

All aspects of plumbing and heating work undertaken

TILING

Kevin Rolfe

GILES BROS

522404

INTERIOR H EXTERIOR WALLPAPERING H COVING H

H

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

All plumbing work undertaken Reliable service, realistic prices

HOUSEMARTIN

❇ ❇ ❇

DECORATOR

• Full central heating & servicing • Boiler and cylinder changes • Bathroom installations • Landlord safety certificates Owen: 07800 752880 Andy: 07827 909111 01793 325209 ecogenuk@sky.com 524938

For all your heating & bathroom needs

Call Steve now on 07708 135420 or 01793 827372

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

Est. 30 years • Central heating installation • Boiler servicing & repairs • Replacement boilers • Bathrooms & tiling • Power showers • Outside taps Reg: 128966

TILING

• 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

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

Quality Plumbing & Heating

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

Home & Garden Improvements

Experienced in all aspects of interior and exterior decorating

PLUMBING

The Roofing Specialist

J S Property Services

PAINTING AND DECORATING

HOME MAINTENANCE HEATING & PLUMBING Services

30 years plumbing & heating experience British Gas trained

UPVC windows & doors

DECORATOR

DECORATOR

TREVOR WYSE

Bathroom suites and kitchens fitted

CARPENTRY

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 Kitchens, Bathrooms and Conservatories

TEL: 01793 330975 MOB: 07919 255673

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ACCOUNTANCY

ACCOUNTANCY

CJD

ACCOUNTANCY LTD

Craig Dell FCCA

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

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

www.cjd-accountancy.co.uk

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

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.bookkeepingswindon.co.uk

www.abacuscleaningswindon.co.uk

COMPUTER SUPPORT

COMPUTER SUPPORT Computer problems?

Let us help

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

Tel: 01793 325685

ADVERTISING WITH IMPACT

HOME AUTOMATION

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

Tel: 01793 700078 Mobile: 07904 330724

• Does your picture freeze and break up?

• Would you like TV points in other rooms?

• Do you want Freesat or Sky installed?

Then contact your local VAT free aerial and satellite installers

01793 744957

50% off digital aerials

CARPET CLEANING

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

FURNITURE

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

• Quickly usable

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

Gorse Hill Clearance Centre Quality used furniture and domestic appliances bought and sold Top prices paid for individual items or complete houses Light local removals, single item or small house, also house clearances

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

Visit our large local showroom: 32 Cricklade Road, Gorse Hill Swindon SN2 8AA

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

01793 530899 or 07932 698274 E: gorsehillclearancecentre@hotmail.com

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

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

Call 01793 602540 for details

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

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APPLIANCE REPAIRS

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

HALE SKILLS • Washing Machines • Cookers • Dishwashers • Dryers • Vacuum Cleaners Over 30 year’s experience

Call 07963 131429

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

e.mail: haleskills@gmail.com

Tel: 01793 469300

CLEANING

CLEANING

THE CLEANING & IRONING SERVICE

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

Weekly, fortnightly or monthly cleans.

One-off Spring cleans

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

Ironing £16 per basket, collected and returned the next day

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

Call 01793 875665 07780625244

GARAGE DOORS

Maxwell House, Maxwell Street, Swindon SN1 5DR

Washing machines, cookers, microwaves etc.

Sorry no fridges or freezers Scrap cars collected FREE of charge

01793 613396 07899 018167 Registered waste carrier

0800 6899988 or 01793 434600 email: enquiries@absolute-rubbish.co.uk

www.absolute-rubbish.co.uk

Get your Lions share

Tel: (01793) 618499 or 513796

All metals removed FREE of charge

• House clearance • Rubbish removal • Sofas and furniture • Shed removal • Confidential waste

Places at West scout group

Showroom:

RODDERS SCRAP METAL

Man & van service Can’t be beaten on price

With the closure of the Cub Scouts group in Westlea, 1st Toothill Scouts have recruited more adult helpers so that it can offer more places to children in West Swindon area in all their sections: Beavers - 6 to 8 years; Cubs - 8 to 10½ years; Scouts - 10½ to 14 years.

All sections meet weekly during term time at The Hut on Bodiam Drive, Toothill and offer a varied programme of scouting skills, hikes, visits and weekend camps. To find out more, mail: toothill.scouts@yahoo.co.uk www.1sttoothillscouts.btck.co.uk

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

SCRAP METAL

CLEARANCE

Homes That Sparkle From People Who Shine

House cleans from £16 per house.

Around £26 for a 4 bed.

swindondoorservices@ btinternet.com

CLEANING

www.garagedoorsupplies.co.uk

TECHNOLOGY SUPPORT

Swindon Lions Club has played an important role in the town’s charity fundraising activities for the best part of half a century, generating over £300,000 for good causes both in Swindon and further afield since 1964.

The annual firework display at the bers joined in after she was widowed Polo Ground along with the Christ- four years ago, so it can be good for mas sleigh round are two popular individuals to get back on their feet.” events that promote their work.

In 2007 the Swindon Lions inauguThe club is appealing for new rated the Community Service Award members with fresh ideas to ensure for young people, which in 2013 will it can continue for another fifty years. be awarded to three youth organisaLions membership chairman and tions in Swindon: Inner Flame, the community officer Maurice Watson Sea Cadets and the 18th Swindon said: “We need people who like work- Scouts. Describing the importance of ing with their community. There is the award Maurice said: “This award great variety in Lions’ work – from goes some way to acknowledging the fundraising to practical help, social great work young people can do.” activities and welfare.

Swindon Lions meet on the first “ It’s a wonderful way to meet new and third Monday of the month at friends and it’s also a good thing to the De Vere Hotel. For details, mail: have on your CV. One of our mem- mauricewatson44@yahoo.co.uk 45

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Sobbs provides support to people who have experienced suicide A new self-help group will launch on 19 September to give people who have lost a loved one by suicide a place to work through the trauma, loss and the extreme emotional impact that such a sudden and unexpected event can have on family and friends.

A branch of the national charity selling group; it’s for people willing of the long established Gloucester Survivors Of Bereavement By Suicide to work together to support each group.

- or SOBBS - will meet on the third other at whatever stage they are in To find out more call Jacqueline Thursday of the month at a venue in a journey. It’s a place to turn to and on 0754 324 2332 or via the national West Swindon. talk together.” helpline: 0844 561 6855.

Founder Jacqueline, who experiThe first meeting of SOBBS takes The SOBBS web site has informaenced a suicide in her family three place on Thursday 19 September, fol- tion, advice, contact points, poetry years ago, said: “Once the excruciating lowed on Sunday 22 September by a and writing by people affected by grief declined a little I became aware ramble and cream tea with members suicide: www.uk-sobs.org.uk there was no support group in Swindon where family or close friends who VisionVisit brings the optician to the home experience the trauma of suicide can Do you, or someone you know, need a sight test but struggle getting to turn. The impact is immediate but the the local optician? If so then you may be entitled to a free NHS sight test effects can last for many years. Those at home. left behind have so many unanswered VisionVisit uses the latest portable existing frames. questions and so much to try and optical equipment to complete a VisionVisit offers free NHS sight understand in order to make some thorough eye examination. tests and a NHS voucher towards the sense of everything.

If there is a change in prescrip- cost of spectacles, if eligible, as well as “SOBBS is not a one-to-one countion, or a client fancies a new look, free year long aftercare. The friendly, VisionVisit can supply spectacles personal service offers flexible apfrom a wide range of frames and pointment times. lenses which cater for every need and For details see the advert on page budget. Or new lenses can be put into 4 or call 01793 232588.

YOUR VHS VIDEO OR CAMCORDER TAPE TRANSFERRED TO DVD DISC

From £15

Tel: 01793 705333

West Swindon & The Lydiards Church Partnership Join us in worship on Sunday mornings Westlea Church, Westlea School: 10.00am St Mary’s Lydiard Tregoze the church in the park: 10.00am 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 01793 874221 Email: partnershipoffice@btopenworld.com Website: www.wswinlyd.org.uk

Anglican • Baptist • Methodist • United Reformed Church

A space to heal through prayer ‘Sick and tired of being sick and tired?’ The answer to that question 2000 years ago in Israel was for many people, ‘Yes.,’ writes Stephen Walker of Rodbourne Cheney Baptist Church Thousands of them followed the rooms around the world, including radical preacher Jesus Christ, listening one in Swindon. The trained Christo his teaching and receiving healing tians who run them don’t provide for all kinds of sickness. Now we have treatment, advice or counselling, but probably the best health service in the offer healing prayer to anyone who world and a host of powerful drugs, asks, including people who don’t but many people still have health believe in God or go to church. problems.

No appointment is needed at RodBefore he died, Jesus instructed his bourne Cheney Baptist Church on followers to do what he did, to teach Mondays, 7.30pm to 8.30pm. Further and to heal. Churches are good at information including testimonies preaching and teaching, but perhaps from people who have been helped less well known for offering healing can be found at www.swindonhealprayer. Many actually do so, but now ingrooms.co.uk it doesn’t only happen on a Sunday.

See also the advertisement on There are hundreds of healing page 32.

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

Open to all, serving tea, coffee, cakes & light lunches Fridays and Saturdays: 10am - 2pm 46 swindonlink.com • August 2013

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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.

Pedalling away to five a day!

The Swindon Travel Choices smoothie bike is going down a storm in workplaces around Swindon.

We’ve been taking our bike out to health and wellbeing events at large and medium sized workplaces, such as Zurich above, where staff can pedal our special bike connected to a blender to mix their own free smoothie.

The bike is coming to Basepoint Business Centre, Rivermead Drive on Wednesday 14 August. Our free ‘Doctor Bike’ mechanic service will be available to any workers or visitors to Basepoint on that day. There will also be a wealth of maps, information and advice on a range of travel choices, as well as one to one advice from a travel advisor.

If you’d like the bike and a transport roadshow to visit your workplace this summer, email info@swindontravelchoices.org.uk

Bike parking and security Do you know anywhere that could use a decent bike rack? We offer a scheme to organisations and businesses, which enables them to either apply for a couple of free visitor parking stands, or obtain a grant to install something more extravagant, i.e. a covered cycle shelter. If you are frustrated at having to chain your bike to railings or trees, then let the organisation know about our deal, or tell us and we can contact them. Drop an email to: info@ swindontravelchoices.org.uk Bike theft is an ongoing problem everywhere, and the best way to thwart the thieves is to invest in as good a lock as possible. Too many bikes are secured with thin cable, which thieves’ tools can cut through like butter. Through our events in the summer, we will be offering discounted price D-locks - so take advantage and make sure your bike is protected.

We have a leaflet about bicycle security that you can download from our website. From the ‘Projects tab’ go to ‘Downloads.’

‘Recycles’ on Princes Street in town, next to the Travelodge, offers free bike security marking. Please call 01793 401834 to check opening times and make an appointment.

Western Flyer update As users of the Western Flyer route will be aware, works are underway on the route between West Swindon and the town centre. Recent improvements include the reconstruction of the cycle way from the end of Iffley Road to the subway beneath Great Western Way, alongside the site of the former gasholder.

Unfortunately the construction works around the Mead Way subway are currently on hold because an unforeseen issue has arisen. A concrete slab across the culvert on the eastern (Westmead) side of the Mead Way subway is so heavily weathered and it needs to be replaced before the works can be completed. Please remain cautious of the temporary surfacing when passing through this area.

When the concreting works take place, the Mead Way subway itself will need to close. Advanced notification of this closure will be made through the formal communication channels, with a signed diversion route in place. You can also keep in touch with developments at facebook.com/swindontravelchoices and on Twitter @TheWesternFlyer

Doorstep Travel activity in West Swindon A team of travel advisors have been out and about, working their way through West Swindon, knocking on doors, talking to residents to provide information and advice about travel choices tailored to the household. Between now and October, the teams will be calling on every house in the West to promote the wide range of choices and the free information and schemes we have on offer.

To complement this, there will be a series of sessions around West Swindon throughout the summer where you can have your bike checked for free, pick up information, maps, advice and enter our competitions.

See details and dates at www.swindontravelchoices.org.uk

Happy birthday to us!

Swindon Travel Choices has just celebrated its second birthday and we’ve taken the time to reflect on what we’ve achieved.

Although there is still plenty more left to do, we have listed a wide range of completed schemes and projects on the news pages on our website. And we treated ourselves to cake, naturally!

Keep in touch with the latest Swindon Travel Choices news, events and initiatives by subscribing to our e-mail newsletter via: www.swindontravelchoices.org.uk

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Swindontravelchoices

@Swindon_Travel

18/07/2013 09:15

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