August 2014 Swindon Link

THE WINDMILL SWINDON

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Beatles for Sale at the Oasis Relive a little history with the Bootleg Beatles. Details on page 3

See page 22

No. 387 August 2014 • Circulation 27,000

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Shaw Ridge wins the first Swindon schools Young Carers Award

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Youngsters at Shaw Ridge Primary School have made awareness of children who are carers central to their community. Schools development worker Fiona Prinzi received a cheque from Shaw Ridge pupil and young carer Eliza Gourley at a special assembly in July. See the story on page 36

Inside, we look back 10 years at the North Swindon Roman dig, the visit by Bridlewood School children to their permanent building and projects at Lydiard Park which attracted lottery funds

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Help from 8 organisations to be found in one place

One of Swindon’s historic buildings, Sanford House, has a new lease of life after it reopened as the Swindon Advice and Support Centre on 30 June.

A number of organisations provid- importantly, for the people those ing information, advice and support agencies support.” have come together under one roof The reorganisation will allow the in an easily accessible town centre council to save around £50,000 anlocation. Swindon Borough Council nually in grants and meeting the rent and the Swindon Clinical Commis- and running costs of different offices sioning Group funded the £350,000 around the town. cost of refurbishing the former school Claire Newport, chief executive which later became the headquarters of Swindon and District Citizens for the council’s education depart- Advice Bureau, said: “Demand for our ment. services has been going up for about

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Swindon Citizen’s Advice Bureau is the lead organisation in the premises with other offices occupied by Wiltshire Law Centre, Swindon Mind, Healthwatch Swindon, Richmond Fellowship, Derventio Housing Trust, Developing Health & Independence Swindon and Swindon Advocacy Movement. Other charities with a contract to deliver services for the council, such as the Harbour Project, will be able to use a hotdesk room in the building.

There are two entrances to the new centre. The Sanford Street door is for general information enquiries. There are also four computers in the manned reception which callers can use to look up information themselves.

The other entrance at the rear of the building is for people seeking specific welfare rights, housing or consumer advice from the Citizen’s Advice Bureau.

Cllr Brian Mattock, deputy leader of Swindon Council, said: “This is a great example of the council working in new and different ways. We have developed a facility in partnership with the voluntary sector which works well for all of the agencies and, most

4 years and has continued to rise in 2014. We would encourage people to seek advice as soon as possible and not let problems mount up.

“Having up-to-date facilities makes it so much easier to work with and support the people who come to see us. While the different organisations in the centre have their our own specialisms and identities, our common purpose is to help people, which is why it is so beneficial to be working together in the same place.”

The Swindon Advice and Support Centre Reception and Information Point is open Monday to Friday 9.30am to 4.30pm To complement the face-to-face contact, people can also find information at: mycaremysupport.co.uk Help is also available by phone: 0800 085 6666 from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Thursday, and 9am to 4.30pm on Friday. The centre is closed on public holidays. In an emergency, out of these hours, call 01793 436699.

Find out about the history of the building: bit.ly/sanfordstsch Are you up for the CAB challenge?

See details on page 43

swindonlink.com • August 2014

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18/07/2014 15:12

Beatles For Sale at the Oasis

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The clock will be turned back half a century on 8 November when The Bootleg Beatles headline A Gig To Remember at the Oasis – 50 years to the day since the Fab Four’s famous homecoming.

Organised to raise montheir own early experiments ey for the Alzheimer’s Soin songwriting. ciety, the gig will take place But expect The Bootleg exactly half a century after Beatles to play all the famous The Beatles played to a sellhits at the Oasis. out audience at the Empire They are regarded as the Theatre in Liverpool on 8 world’s premier Beatles tribNovember 1964, their first ute band, having played home-town gig for almost 4,000 gigs. George Harrison a year. commented once that they It was a triumphant mo‘probably know the chords ment in British cultural Amanda with her dad John Davidson, charity sponsor better than I do.’ history, because it was the Mary Hoffman-Male, with front, Dani Franks, Aaron and Paul McCartney jokingly year the band conquered Jack Bradshaw at a Bombay Lounge charity night in July said that he was going to America and started the where Simon Manchip, consultant in old age medicine at come along and heckle them.

‘British pop music invasion.’ GWH, spoke about dementia A Gig to Remember is beAt one stage the mop tops held the top cafeteria by day that was converted ing organised by Amanda Franks from five places on The Billboard Hot 100, into a music venue by night – took North Swindon to raise money and and ended 1964 with various single place on 17 July 1962, and they were awareness of the impact of dementia hits worldwide and a chart-topping paid £27 10s (£27.50) for playing two on the lives of sufferers and their famnew album: Beatles For Sale. ily. Her mother Cathy Davidson was 60 minute sets.

It was a far cry from their only gig It took place just six weeks after diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease in Swindon, two years earlier, when The Beatles’ first visit to Abbey Road at the early age of 58 and went into a small ad in the Swindon Advertiser Studios, and only a month before Orchid Care Home in Haydon End announced the arrival of ‘the biggest drummer Pete Best would be replaced five years later in January 2014. band in the north.’ They played to by Ringo Starr.

Fill the Oasis for this historic an audience said to number just 360.

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18/07/2014 18:52

MP elevated in Government South Swindon MP Robert Buckland was appointed as Solicitor General in Prime Minister David Cameron’s cabinet reshuffle on 15 July.

As a barrister for

by David Cameron to 20 years, he is emitake on this senior role. nently suitable to be "Of course, I will a legal adviser to the continue to work hard Government and the for my constituency, Crown. He will also be and pledge that there deputy to the Attorney will be no impact on General. my representation of Following his aplocal people. pointment, Robert Robert with Karen Edwards, "The extra influence said: "This is a huge who is seeking justice for her that comes with this privilege. I am delight- murdered daughter Becky position will be good ed and honoured to have been asked news for residents of South Swindon."

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Lunch is served in Toothill, and the Wiggle Bus will get you there Toothill Lunch Club is open every Wednesday, from 12noon, at Toothill Community Centre, serving a two course meal followed by tea or coffee for the very reasonable price of £3.20.

Explaining how to become a “Each week there is a raffle with member Toothill Community Cafe, prizes with all the proceeds going to trustee Tina Mackie said: “Just book the lunch club Christmas fund.” your meal by Tuesday on 07944 Meet the Toothill Million team 134915 and if you need a lift to and Volunteers involved with the Toothill from the community centre you can Big Local team who are administering request the Wiggle Bus to pick you the £1 million fund allocated to the up from your home. area by the National Lottery will be “It’s a great opportunity to meet attending the lunch club on Wednesnew people, or organise a group of day 20 August to discuss next steps. friends to come for lunch and find For details mail: toothill.bl2013@ out what else is happening at the outlook.com community centre.

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

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Patients registered with the Freshbrook Surgery have seen the days they can see a doctor locally cut from five days a week to three.

The practice which is a branch of live in two other sheltered dwellings Ridge Green Surgery at Shaw Centre in Freshbrook. has been given permission to reduce The two practices have a comopening hours on a temporary basis bined patient list of 10,100. Senior by the NHS England area team whilst practice partner Dr Amit Dwivedi a shortage of doctors applying to is encouraging patients who need to general practice positions is reviewed. see a doctor to consider making an HealthWatch Swindon has been appointment at Ridge Green. liaising with patients and NHS EngHe gave an assurance that older land and has been told that detailed people from Freshbrook who are undiscussions about the situation will able to travel to Shaw, which requires take place by early August. two bus journeys, would be offered Several patients attended the West home visits.

Swindon Forum on 14 July to express Anybody who wants to express a their concerns about the reduction view on the change of hours at Freshin service, particularly to elderly brook Surgery can write to: Jo Osorio, residents of Elsie Hazel Court and Healthwatch Swindon, 23 Brunel Windmill Court close to the Fresh- Plaza, SN1 1LF or mail: jo.osorio@ brook surgery, and also patients who healthwatchswindon.org.uk

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Editorial for September: 11 August Published: 30 August Copy for October: 8 September ‘Like’ Swindon Link

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ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES Call (01793) 602540 or mail: advertising@swindonlink.com Closing date for September advertisements: 8 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 2014

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18/07/2014 18:31

Swindon students take on three peaks holiday hike in aid of teen cancer charity When young people should be sunning themselves in Ibiza, seven New College students will be taking part in the tough Three Peaks 24 Hours Challenge on 18 and 19 August to raise money for the Teenage Cancer Trust.

Thomas Hawkins from West SwinThomas said: “I was absolutely “My cousin is a very outdoor loving The students and a mountain leader don took responsibility for recruiting devastated when I heard the news, person, so going for the Three Peaks will climb Ben Nevis in Scotland, fellow students and lecturers to par- but soon realised that getting upset challenge in 24 hours was an obvi- Scarfell Pike in Cumbria and Snowticipate in his project after learning wasn’t going to help the situation so ous project to organise. The amount don in Wales, with two drivers and that his cousin had been diagnosed I started to think about what I could of support we’ve received has been fellow student Louise Vandersanden with a serious form of cancer. do to make a difference. amazing: New College have donated in the support party.

Thomas hopes the team will raise Louise Vandersanden, Thomas Hawkins and Josh Ayres putting in some moun- transport and fuel, Laser Quest at tain climbing training at Lydiard Park Shaw Ridge, where I work, have £5,000 for the trust; 20 per cent has helped me publicise the event and already been achived. To make a donaSouth Swindon MP Robert Buckland tion, text TPKS83 followed by your MP and my local councillor Tim amount to 70070 or via: justgiving.

Swinyard are also helping me.” com/Thomas-Hawkins1

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Be one of (at least) 600 people to smash the Swiss ball exercise class world record on Saturday 11 October at David Lloyd gym in North Swindon.

The attempt to claim the record for stands at 348 people and we are Swindon is part of a fundraising drive aiming to set a new one with 600. The to raise £50,000 by Westlea based class will be low impact and suitable Excalibur Communications & IT for for all levels of fitness.”

Business for the RUH Bath Teenage The new teen cancer ward will Cancer ward appeal. provide a nurturing and therapeutic Anyone 14 or above can take part environment that is centred on pain a low impact 40 minute class. Par- tient care and experience, promoting ticipation costs £25 and you keep your health and a holistic approach for record breaking ball after the attempt. patients and their families.

Fitness instructor Kiz Davis who is Register at: ex-c.co.uk/recordbreakleading the event said: “The record ingballs

Pom-poms wanted for the Priory Vale party Creative people are being asked to make some decorations for stalls at the Priory Vale fun day on Saturday 6 September,12noon to 2pm, in aid of Wiltshire Air Ambulance.

Members of Time Bank in Taw Hill are busily making pompons to give stalls a colourful festive feel and more volunteers are welcome to add to the collection.

Kirstie Reeve at Swindon Volunteer Centre, right, is coordinating the project. She said: “We want to have as many as possible, big, small and the more colourful the better. Any help you can offer would be brilliant.”

She can send instructions on how

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Come aboard, says health watchdog Healthwatch Swindon, the independent organisation that gives people a powerful voice in how health and social care services are run in the town, is asking residents to step up and join its board of directors.

It represents people’s interest difference, but we need the support of and acts as a channel for the views the community to do so. People don’t and experiences of health and social need any health background, they just care service users. It covers any area need to live in Swindon and want to of health - from GP practices and make improvements.” dental surgeries, to the Great West The role of director is voluntary, ern Hospital. It can also support and and involves a few hours each month advise people who have come across plus a requirement to attend Swindon problems with their care provision. Council’s health quality committee Now Healthwatch Swindon is meetings. looking for people who are passionate Anyone interested in joining about health and social care to join it the board should contact Pete for and help influence the level and design an information pack: pete.rowe@ of care provision in the town. healthwatchswindon.org.uk Pete Rowe, Healthwatch Swindon Find out more at healthwatchswinmanager, said: “We really do make a don.org.uk

Halls for hire in Freshbrook and Peatmoor Roughmoor Social Hall on Swinley Drive in Peatmoor has had a makeover and bookings have been steadily increasing since it was taken over

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Swindon Council has been ratio- of helpers came in and really made a nalising the way it runs social halls and difference by decorating the main hall the Freshbrook committee agreed to before the carpet went down. They take it on a three year lease to prevent also tidied up the back garden which closure. had become a bit of a jungle. It was

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As part of the agreement the council has completed outstanding maintenance, including replacing the front doors, whilst the community centre paid for a new carpet.

Administrator Emma Tanner said volunteers from the Princes Trust supported skills development charity Inner Flame had helped out. “A team

fantastic to see the transformation in a just a few days.”

“We now have 13 regular groups using Roughmoor Social Hall. More people are hiring it for children’s parties because it’s more convenient than using their own homes. One of the improvements is we’ve made the process of booking the room easier.”

New committee comes together

After five years of effort to put Freshbrook Community Centre back on its feet after the previous management failed, many of the volunteers who took on the responsibility stepped down in mid-July.

However new people have come forward to continue the successful management of the community centre and Roughmoor Social Hall with the assistance of four part time administrative and caretaking staff.

Freshbrook Community Centre has several rooms to hire and a main hall with the capacity of up to 150 people in a meeting. Prices vary according to requirements.

Roughmoor Social Hall is large enough for 40 people and costs £10 an hour.

For booking details call Emma Tanner between 9am and 12noon, Monday to Friday, on 01793 870526 or mail: freshbrookcommunitycentre@hotmail.co.uk

swindonlink.com • August 2014

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17/07/2014 09:31

Staff and pupils at Oakhurst Primary School are building on their international primary curriculum this year by taking part in a British Council funded Comenius project that connects schools across Europe.

In March teachers from partner schools in France, Italy and Spain visited Swindon and in June teachers and children travelled to London to meet up with counterparts from Ecole élémentaire Marcel Pagnol in western France, pictured right.

Year 1 coordinator Sally Lonsdale has been working on the project since late 2012 but the first meeting of teachers from all four schools took place in central Italy in November 2013. Describing the motivation to get involved Sally said: “Our curriculum encourages us to think of the world as a whole. Our Comenius theme ‘One Europe Many Cultures’ gives the children exposure to different cultures and languages and stands them in good stead for the future when it’s possible many of them will work abroad.

“The schools have been exchanging work on traditions in each country, and children have been learning songs and dances, and finding out more

Oakhurst makes Euro connections

about the climate as well as comparing the languages. We want to give the children a chance to experience everything possible and open their eyes and minds to different cultures.”

Comenius also aims to share ideas and best practice amongst teachers to benefit children’s learning. During their visit the teachers visited the University of Western England teacher training faculty.

Teacher Roberta Carnaroli was impressed by British methods. She said: “In Italy we have no practical teaching experience as part of our professional training. It’s very theoretical with lots of books. We miss having real interactions with children as part of our studies.”

The visitors were also surprised by the ratio of adults to pupils. In Europe this is typically 1 to 25 children,

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18/07/2014 15:24

Haydon-licious team impress Dragons with their health jelly delight Seven youngsters from Haydonleigh Primary School demonstrated their business acumen in the Dragons Den in June - as well as an entrepreneurial team spirit that would shame Alan Sugar and his apprentices.

Lydiard Park Academy challenged expensive to make. primary schools last October to creNyree added: “Even though only ate a healthy snack and present their seven of us went to meet the Dragons, findings to a team of teachers ready to it was a team effort because lots of judge their efforts. The aim was, over people in our school were involved. the course of several months, to apply “We had a rehearsal in school so business principles, investigate a marwhen we went to see the Dragons it ket for a product and learn whether was like talking to ordinary people.” it was a money making proposition.

Ruby said that the team’s extra Year 5 teams from Brook Field, little bits of preparation helped. “We Oakhurst, Redhouse and Tregoze watched a video of Levi Roots in the entered, but it was the Year 4s from Six of the 7 Haydonleigh presenters with Year 4 teacher Nicola Dunn and Richard real den and invented our little dance Haydonleigh who most impressed Jones from Lydiard Park Academy and a song to promote Jellylicious. I the academy dragons. design as well as investigation and to come up with ways to revamp the thought we could win when one of the Richard Jones, head of business and team working.” school’s existing break time funky dragons asked for some more jelly.” economics at Lydiard Park Academy, Mr Jones added: “Haydonleigh set Colleague Nicola Dunn added: fruit stall with a new product. said: “Entrepreneurship has become “It was the children who surprised Georgia said: “We came up with a really high standard. It’s a project an important area in society and we us with how quickly they understood fruit jelly which we called Jellylicious; which we want to develop with help wanted to offer primary schools the concepts such as profit and loss, pro- children liked the taste and it wasn’t from our sixth formers.” chance of an extended real world duction costs and market research.

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The mayor of Swindon Teresa Page and her consort Tim visited the Swindon 105.5 start your own business roadshow jointly run with Outset Swindon at West Swindon Centre on 27 June. They are pictured with Shirley Ludford of 105.5, Jane Pearce of Outset and Daniel White from Grange Park. See the Outset advert on page 25.

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1-18 August 14.indd 9

17/07/2014 09:37

Common Platt, Swindon, SN5 4JT 2, 3, 4 & 5 bedroom homes from £218,000

Don’t panic – not much longer to wait! Show homes opening in August The eagerly-awaited opening of our show home complex is all set for August 2014, and it is all set to impress!

Expertly built homes, from a 5 star housebuilder – as voted by our customers, Greenfields at Ridgeway Farm is far more than just a collection of 2, 3, 4 & 5 bedroom homes – it’s a community in it’s own right.

A primary school, play area, wildlife areas and public open spaces will all go into making Greenfields a vibrant and exciting new place to live, on the north west edge of Swindon, with local amenities right on the doorstep.

ALSO AVAILABLE IN SWINDON: There is something for everyone – first time buyers as well as families looking for more space. Best of all, there are many ways Taylor Wimpey can help make your move more affordable than you think!

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Call 01793 688734 or visit taylorwimpey.co.uk/greenfields Sales information centre and show home open Tuesday to Sunday 10am – 5pm, Monday 1pm – 5pm

Prices correct at time of going to press. Photographs show typical Taylor Wimpey homes, which may include optional upgrades or extras available at additional cost. Please ask your Sales Executive for details.

1-18 August 14.indd 10

17/07/2014 09:39

Secrets of West Swindon iron age site exposed at Ridgeway Farm Around 150 people took the opportunity on 21 June to find out more about how people lived in the small Iron Age settlement revealed at Ridgeway Farm during statutory archaeological investigation in advance of Taylor Wimpey’s new development of 700 homes.

Features discovered during the Andrew Manning, senior project dig suggest that the area was once manager from Wessex Archaeology, occupied, probably by a single family said that geophysical surveys showed grouping, from about 100BC into the the land to the west of the original Roman period around 43AD. farmhouse access track had always Staff from Wessex Archaeology, been pasture which meant the eviwho were commissioned to carry out dence of occupation was undisturbed. the investigation, uncovered the post However the quality of the site is holes for several roundhouses, storage not good enough for preservation and pits, pottery which would have been house building will continue now that used for storing food, loom weights artefacts have been removed. for weaving, quern stones for grindWessex Archaeology will publish a ing corn and various personal items. report of findings at the end of 2015.

Andy Manning of Wessex Archaeology pointing out roundhouse postholes to South Swindon MP Robert Buckland and Mary Beck of Taylor Wimpey. Photo: Richard Wintle of Calyxpix.com

Looking back to the North Swindon Roman site dig in 2004 Ten years ago English Heritage carried out a major archaeological excavation to discover more about the significant Roman villa complex at Groundwell Ridge which had been purchased from housing developers to prevent its destruction.

The important historical site was unexpectedly discovered in 1996 by a digger driver. House building stopped immediately for geophysical and trench investigations which resulted in it being protected as a Scheduled Monument.

During a five week project in 2004 school children and scouts learnt about digs and the public were able to watch the archaeologists at work from a raised viewing platform.

Large quantities of Roman building materials were uncovered, such as tiles, bricks and roofing slates, as

I’m self-employed – working as a builder for 45 years. I paid NI (Class 2 and 4). My wife, apart from being home with the kids always worked part time or low paid jobs. How come her State Pension is bigger than mine?

More accolades for Richard Hailstone

In the July Link John Stooke, the chair of Haydon Wick parish council wrote an appreciation of Richard Hailstone, who stepped down as chairperson after 27 years, but has remained a parish councillor to extend his 35 years service.

Former parish council member Phillip Eagle adds his tribute.

Parish councillors may be the lowest form of life in the political world but they perform a useful function of representation, as, after each council meeting, the members have to return to their communities and face their electors and live with their decisions.

Richard Hailstone is an honourable and an honest man with decided political views but the realisation that he has to put them aside and consider the wishes of the parish he represents in the council chamber. In his many years as chairman of Haydon Wick Parish Council he ruled with kid gloves and the members respected him for his integrity.

Richard was usually a calm and placid man, perhaps a hang over from his days facing a class of hyperactive school children. He was rarely fazed by controversy, though on one memorable occasion the chairman’s gavel flew the length of the council

chamber, an event spoken of in hushed tones by those present. The look of astonishment on the face of the parish clerk will last for ever in the memory.

In his early days, if invited, he will tell of pre-council meetings of the principal political parties to decide on their response to issues on the agenda for that evening, even on the most trivial parish pump affairs. He will also tell how he believes that party politics has little relevance at parish level Richard represented a point of stability in Haydon Wick parish which has seen massive changes as Swindon expanded northwards and finally swamped the village.

He has made many friends throughout the town and in his career as a parish councillor; so much so that it is difficult to find someone who will say an unfavourable word about him.

well as coins and a plaque featuring a Roman goddess. The key find was a well preserved villa bath suite, complete with plunge pool lined with waterproof tiles.

The site was covered by sand and turf as protection and interpretation boards explaining the significance of the site were erected on Hamstead Way and on St Andrew’s Ridge.

English Heritage wrote a booklet about the site, which is available in Central Library, and also a scientific report available at: bit.ly/ EHGR04report

Ask AMS Good question. It’s because we have two types of State Pension: the Basic State Pension and the Secondary State Pension (formerly SERPS).

You probably don’t receive a Secondary State Pension because self-employed NI contributions don’t count towards it. Your wife’s Employee’s NI contributions, do count towards the Secondary State Pension – so she gets a bigger pension.

Class 4 contributions have been, in effect, just another tax (so are Employer’s NI contributions).

From April 2016, there will be one flat-rate State Pension irrespective of how much NI we pay and the selfemployed will be treated the same as the employed. A bit late for you, I’m afraid.

Peter Bromiley ACA AMS Accountancy Ltd, Swindon SN5 7XF, 01793-818400 www.ams-accountancy.co.uk swindonlink.com • August 2014

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18/07/2014 18:33

North children visit new school

North school building 10 years ago

Twelve of the first intake starting at Tadpole Farm Church of England Bridlewood School in between Ash Brake and Redhouse opened in a Academy in September were given a guided tour of their new, temporary, mobile in September 2003, but ten years ago in April 2004 fifty three school building at Redhouse Community Centre in Frankel Avenue on 3 July. children transferred into the permanent school in use today.

Paul Morris with reception teacher Emma Leach and Jane Leo, right, and young visitors in child size hi-vis jackets and helmets at Redhouse Community Centre

Headteacher Jane Leo and Paul Morris, building manager for contractors Wilmot Dixon showed them the nursery and reception classes still under construction. The building is scheduled for handover in the last week of August.

Work on the permanent school in the Tadpole Garden development is now underway and should be ready for January 2015, when an access road and footpath routes are completed.

"It was lovely to show the children where they will be going to school," said Mrs Leo. "Even though there were building workers in the rooms, they

were unfazed by what they saw and were telling us what should be there when they start, like toys and books" Crest Homes have provided a shop unit at Redhouse Village Centre, opposite Isambard School, so that Mrs Leo and her staff team have a base in the area. She is holding drop-in sessions for parents and children every Tuesday from 2pm to 3pm in July and August, except Tuesday 26 August.

For details about places, contact Jane Leo on 07733 264202 or mail: jane.leo@tadpoleacademy.co.uk

From the Swindon Link archive the first Bridlewood children and staff getting ready to move into their new building from the adjacent mobiles

Construction starts at Taw Hill

Building of St Francis Church Aided Primary School in Taw Hill started in February 2004, later than originally proposed, as plans had to be redrawn to exclude a dedicated worship space due to budget reductions.

Because of the delay the school started with 112 children in two mobiles on the southern edge of the site, off Queen Elizabeth Drive, whilst building on the permanent facilities took place on the north side by the village centre.

The September Link will include a picture of the children and staff taken on the first day of the new school: 2 September 2004.

See the full story and more pictures: bit.ly/TFAvisit

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17/07/2014 09:40

Top citizens of Westlea

West Swindon primary SATS success

Over 1,500 ten and 11 year olds took part in this year’s Swindon Junior Year 6 pupils at Oliver Tomkins CE Junior School in Toothill have celGood Citizen Scheme which is designed to educate youngsters about how ebrated significant improvements in this year’s national Standard Assessto respond appropriately to emergencies and highlight the contribution ment Tests (SATs) results.

The news of a 34 per cent increase This year’s floor target was that 65 that they can make to creating safer communities by being ‘good citizens’. compared with 2013 came soon per cent of Year 6 pupils achieved after an Ofsted inspection in May a Level 4 result in reading, writing which said that the school required and maths. The school achieved 88 improvement. per cent, 93 per cent and 86 per cent The inspection praised teaching respectively. The percentage of pupils quality and pupil progress and identi- achieving a Level 4 in all three areas fied the many ways the school benefits also leapt from 61 per cent to 80 its pupils despite some challenges. It per cent. commented on good behaviour and The Ofsted report called for the pupils’ keenness to learn. It also com- school to deliver consistently good mended the school for successfully teaching, increase the rate of progress addressing points from the previous for younger pupils so that they reach inspection. higher standards by the end of Year Headteacher Rhian Cockwell said: 6, and to improve the systems for Winning Westlea children with PCSO Mandi Coles and headteacher Rose Carberry “I’m delighted by how well Year 6 monitoring the quality of teaching On Thursday 3 July scheme coor- awareness of anti-social behaviour children have done. Staff worked and the impact this has on progress. dinator PCSO Mandi Coles visited and the potential consequences that hard to help them do this; we hope The full report can be read at: bit.

Westlea Primary School to present can arise from it. to continue this trend in future years.” ly/OTSofsted014 a shield and each participant with a PCSO Coles said: “The Swindon mug with the Swindon JGCS logo. Junior Good Citizen scheme has At the Punjabi Community Cen- armed thousands of children in the Successful school bid for sports centre tre children from each school were town with crucial information about Work on a new £1.8 million sports centre at Highworth Warneford School confronted by different scenarios to how to deal with dangerous and pos- will soon start following a Government award. help them learn about personal and sible life-threatening situations It means students will no longer have to cross a busy road to access Highcommunity safety including staying “The judges considered the engage- worth Rec for PE lessons. The new centre will include a 4 court sports hall and safe online, fire safety, railway safety, ment in the project by Westlea chil- be available to the public in the evenings and at weekends. first aid, food hygiene, road safety and dren as exemplary and their behaviour A tendering process is now underway and construction should commence personal safety. This year it included during the course was excellent.” in September with completion by the middle of 2015.

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In our most recent Ofsted report (May 2013) pupils’ behaviour was described as “outstanding both in lessons and around the school” and such behaviour makes a “strong contribution to their learning.”

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swindonlink.com • August 2014

1-18 August 14.indd 14

18/07/2014 18:35

St Francis’ fort opens for playtime

Recently retired?

As part of the development of the school grounds into a learning adventure Swindon U3A opens up a whole new world experience, pupils at St Francis Primary School in Taw Hill now have a The University of the Third Age - U3A - offers opportunities to keep your mind brand new fort to play on and unleash their imaginations. and body active, develop skills, explore new horizons and make new friends.

A Freshers’ Fair at St Joseph’s College, Ocotal Way on Saturday 30 August, 10am to 12.30pm, will promote over 100 academic and recreational courses and meetings at various locations in and around Swindon.

The annual membership fee is £30 which covers attendance at most groups. swindonu3a.org.uk

Get crafty in Old Town A new weekly Eastcott Craft Group starts on Wednesday 10 September, 7.30pm to 9.30pm in the Savernake Street Community Hall.

The self-led group offers the chance to craft in company and share skills with others. For details call 07599 256969, mail: eastcottcommunity@yahoo.co.uk Facebook: SavernakeStreetSocialHall

The structure was constructed by Copper Beech Garden Design, who have rebuilt the existing nursery garden and the amphitheatre in the

grounds to make them more exciting.

They are also responsible for the great den building area, pictured in the March Link where children can create their own structures using rough hewn poles and planks.

Headteacher Joy Farrell said: “We are very pleased with the design; it’s a fantastic place for children to play.

“A Year 2 pupil said they could understand why it had taken so long to build - because it’s so good.”

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16/07/2014 15:09

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Families called to contact North Swindon children’s centre An Ofsted report following an inspection of Butterflies Children's Centre, based at Abbey Meads Primary School in North Swindon has judged the centre needs to attract more users.

The report identifies many areas of successful practice, achieving excellent outcomes for families and children in the North Swindon area.

There are 2,930 children living within the SN25 outreach area covered by the centre and Butterflies staff are working with 1,450 of them. To achieve the good grading, they need to increase this number to 1,900.

Butterflies was rated at ‘Requires Improvement’ because of this shortfall and also inspection judgements regarding the level of adult education provided, checks on the progress of children during activities and the need to improve recording of work with families receiving one-to-one support case files.

the centre firmly on an improving course following a period of significant change.

The additional funding has enabled 5 new members of staff to be appointed to an already strong team and the inspectors recognised that this has resulted in an increase in the number of vulnerable families being supported.

Bob Buckley, Abbey Meads Primary School headteacher with overall management responsibility for Butterflies, said: "We are determined, with Swindon Borough Council backing, to continue building upon the work within the community.

“I am extremely proud of our team of dedicated staff. I'm also delighted that the lead inspector recognised the

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The inspectors acknowledged that Butterflies provides expertly run parenting classes and very effective family support work which ensures a strong safety net for the most vulnerable children and families. Safeguarding, children’s wellbeing and child protection were highlighted as a strength and at the centre’s core.

The centre’s strong leadership and management is recognised in the report with a Good grade.

The report states resources, including the increased budget from April 2014, are managed well and has placed

quality of our work with vulnerable families; acknowledging that Butterflies makes a real difference through early intervention to children and families in the North Swindon area.

Centre manager Tanya Parkinson commented: “It is such a privilege to work as part of a strong team in partnerships with other agencies, such as health visitors. I am very grateful to the many families who took the time to speak so highly of the centre and its work with the Ofsted Team.

• Children’s centres to be cut back see page 18

Hi5 holiday camp at Haydon Centre, Thames Avenue Weekdays, 25th July to 29th August (excluding Mon 25th Aug), 8.30am until 5.30pm Activities for four to twelve year olds including: team and ball games, trampolining, bouncy castle, quizzes, electronic games, music and dance, arts and crafts Hi5 is registered with Ofsted. All staff are fully trained and CRB checked £22.50 daily with a Leisure in Swindon card and £40.50 without a card For details call Haydon Centre on 01793 706666 Download a registration form from: leisureinswindon.co.uk/hi5-holiday-camp

swindonlink.com • August 2014

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Pirates and princesses to celebrate quarter of a century West Swindon Nutkinz parent and toddler group holds a pirates and princesses party on Saturday 2 August, for current children, parents and childminders and those who have attended over the last 25 years.

Organisers would like to hear from former members. Find out more and register for the party at: westswindonshawtoddler.co.uk Nutkinz raised money for Barnardo’s by taking part in the Big Toddle for preschoolers on 16 July. Dressed as spaceboys and girls, the children, parents and childminders took a short walk along Shaw Ridge in aid of the charity’s work with disadvantaged families

Classes held at:

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

Charity marks third year of care centre Hop, Skip & Jump, the West Swindon centre which provides immediate and flexible, 7 day and evening respite care, to children and adults with life limiting illness, disabilities and special needs, no matter how complex, marked its third anniversary with a fun day at Upper Shaw Farm on 12 July.

See details: hopskipandjump.org.uk/hop-skip-jump-swindon

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

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South Swindon MP Robert Buckland with HSJ staff at the now completed selfcontained Rainbow Room at the centre which has soft play equipment and sensory lighting where children can go with staff if they are prone to infection, or need a quiet space to play, or to calm down in stressful moments. The room is dedicated to Alex Wilson and was funded by the Clothworkers Foundation.

Robert is pictured with from left, Terry Radcliffe, Amy Loveridge, centre manager Sonia Osborne, Rhiannon Evans, Hayley Stone and Christine Blackmore.

Friday 5th September 10am to 2pm

Salt Way Children’s Centre

Pearl Road, Middleleaze Swindon SN5 5TD Tel: 01793 465364 www.childrenssociety.org.uk/saltwaycc

Summer Fun Activities – everybody welcome Session themes will be Crafty Cats, Teddy Bear Picnics, Nutty Nature, Messy Monkeys, Tricky Transport For full details call: Salt Way/Croft CC on 01793 465364 Robert le Kyng/Eldene CC on 01793 525830 Or check out our website: www.childrenssociety.org.uk/swindon

swindonlink.com • August 2014

1-18 August 14.indd 17

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18/07/2014 18:37

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Council to ‘consult’ on plan to slash childrens’ centres In a bid to reduce spending by £18 million from April 2015, Swindon Council is proposing to reduce the £2.1 million cost of running children’s centres by around 37 per cent.

In a report to the cabinet on 23 comments discussed at the 22 Octo- funding is managed.

July, councillors considered how to ber cabinet.

“It is too early to say whether turnsave £770,000 by combining, closBob Buckley, headteacher of Abbey ing Butterflies into a self-financing ing or repurposing children’s centres Meads Primary School and head of multi-generational family centre across the town.

Butterflies Children’s Centre, hopes could be successful. But I am certain Last year councillors cut spending users will respond to the consulta- generating over £200,000 annually, by £380,000 which saw children’s tion. He said: “Last year, all centre whilst successfully offering meaningcentres close or amalgamated. heads worked very closely with the ful services to vulnerable families in council to implement a new funding our area, will be a challenge.”

The council now wants to: See page 16 for a story on But• Turn West Swindon Family Project scheme that matched the needs across the town whilst securing significant terflies recent Ofsted report which and Butterflies Children’s Centre, reductions in running costs. commended the centre for its positive covering North Swindon, into pilot “Butterflies had to submit a 3 year impact on the lives of vulnerable famimulti-generational family centres, financial plan to justify an increased lies with limited resources and how with 66 per cent of existing funding, grant and employed skilled and comfamilies value the support provided, for up to two years. They will need to raise money and work towards reduc- mitted staff in good faith on this basis. though it calls for more families to Now we are told - 3 months into a new be helped. ing the need for council funding; system - that we face further substanMr Buckley added: “We will • De-commission Butterflies, West tial cuts which put the job security of struggle to come close to matching Swindon Family Project, Salt Way in all team members into jeopardy. our services with need in the future Middleleaze, Ladybirds Highworth, “It is even worse for our friends in with only 66 per cent (and potentially Eldene, Croft, Robert Le Kyng, as some of the other children’s centres decreasing) funding. Some staff will children’s centres which may lead to which now face total closure. The have to spend time seeking grants their de-registration by Ofsted; report states that even with these rather than helping families in need.”

• Unchanged will be: Penhill & cuts the funding will only last up to The cabinet report says Swindon Pinehurst, Moredon, Drove, Gorse two years – which means yet more will have 17 more health visitors by Hill (the Supercluster) and Parks & could follow.

2015 and more of the most vulnerable Walcot East.

“It is impossible to attract and two years olds will receive 15 hours Consultation about the changes retain high quality staff when there of early years education each week. will take place until 3 October with is so little confidence in the way the See the report: bit.ly/swindonccfunding

Oakhurst sports puts Ofsted comments into context In June head of Ofsted Michael Wilshaw, said it is ‘simply cannot be right that state-educated athletes are so woefully under-represented in our elite sports,’ and went onto criticise headteachers who treat competitive sport with suspicion.

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Gill Harris with sporty Oakhurst children

He should have visited the sports week at Oakhurst Primary School in early July where children took part in boxing, hockey, rugby, football, track and field events, tug-a-war, bockwa and zumba.

Acting headteacher Gill Harris said Oakhurst certainly does not fall within the Ofsted leader’s com-

ment. “Our teams regularly appear in town and county competitions and children organise a wide range of lunchtime fitness related clubs.”

• PE coordinator Mark Draycott is running multi-sports holiday camps with some craft activities all through the summer holidays. For details contact him on 07581 045 845.

swindonlink.com • August 2014

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18/07/2014 15:43

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Telling the story of Swindon in the Great War Dr Mike Pringle from Old Town decided several years before the centenary of the Great War that the story of the town’s contribution needed to be told, writes Fran Bevan.

A professional in the arts and were lost in military action.” heritage sector, Mike follows in the Remembering Swindon 1914-18 footsteps of headteacher WD Bavin tells the stories of farm labourers who who in 1922 was commissioned by fought and one toff turned Tommy.

Swindon Corporation to write SwinVernon Henry St John, 6th Viscount don’s War Record.

Bolingbroke from Lydiard Park served In this fully illustrated 160 page with the 3rd Devonshires, and is book Great War Britain - Remembering believed to be the only peer of the Swindon 1914-18 Mike records how realm to serve as a private. Vernon was Swindon men were involved from the discharged from the army suffering very onset of war. He writes: ‘There from shell shock. is a Swindon connection to almost Great War Britain – Remembering every military service, all the different Swindon 1914-18 costs £12.99. Pubtheatres of war, and every major event.’ describes how hardship hit home. lished by The History Press in August, There was new employment and A remarkable band of women led it will be available from Pen & Paper, prosperity - initially. Women took up by Mary Slade, who had supported 113 Victoria Road, or order a copy: bit. some of the jobs men left behind in Swindon men taken Prisoner of ly/pringlepreorder the GWR Works while Wills’ cigarette War, continued to fund raise for the factory was taken over for munitions. destitute families whose men never A factory opened employing 50 came home.

Mike draws attention to the Roll of young women in the manufacture Honour that hangs in of rope and sails while the old Swindon Town town centre store McIlHall on Regent Circus roys won an order from commemorating the the War Office to supply names of 920 men lost.

45,000 beds.

He said: “Current estiBut the boom was mates put the actual figshort lived and Mike ure at something nearer Viscount Vernon, from 1,400 men who either the Lydiard House arlived in, or were origichives, used with pernally from Swindon, and mission

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Great War commemoration events in August The outbreak of hostilities a century ago will be marked at various locations around the town.

On 4 August an exhibition called Swindon in the Great War, looking at the impact on the people of Swindon, opens at Swindon Museum and Art Gallery.

At Radnor Street Cemetery on Sunday 17 August local history groups will be exhibiting Great War material in the chapel, while cemetery walks will take place at 11am and 2pm. To book a place on a guided tour, call Mark Sutton on 07870 701049 or Frances Bevan on 01793 875416.

Swindon Town Centre: From Monday 4 to Saturday 9 August, inSwindon and Swindon in the Great War will be marking the start of World War I with commemorations and activities.

There will be a poppy making workshop next to a commemoration wall, an exhibition by local history groups, music from yesteryear and a street party.

Steven Spielberg’s film War Horse will be shown on the Big Screen at Wharf Green on Friday 8 August, 7pm. Tickets are free but must be secured in advance by emailing: tickets@inswindon.com See details at: swindontowncentre.co.uk • Vigil on the eve of war. See page 46

Thomas, OR members of his team at Special Auction Services, will value portable items between 10am and 3.30pm on: Monday 11th August Valuations are by appointment only.

Please call 01635 580595 Jury’s Inn, Fleming Way, or visit www.

Swindon SN1 2NG specialauctionservices.com to arrange an appointment

swindonlink.com • August 2014

19 - 48 August 14.indd 19

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18/07/2014 15:46

Book tells the disturbing story of death on the railways

A recently published book Death, Dynamite and Disaster: A grisly British railway history by Swindon author Rosa Matheson tells the grisly tale of accidents on the railways since the mid-19th Century – and uncovers some surprising truths about the role of rail travel in social and political reform and activism over the decades.

This is Rosa’s sixth book dedicated Explaining the dynamite in the title, Rosa said: “People often think that to the history of railways in Swindon this refers to navvies blowing up the and beyond. Her previous works have land for the track to go through, but focussed on the role of women in the actually railways proved to be a prime industry, as well as what it was like to target for early terrorism in the form of serve an apprenticeship with GWR. They have all proved popular, the anarchists and the Fenians – what and her book about GWR’s famous we would now call the IRA.” Trip Week, when workers left town, en masse, for their annual summer holidays, is now in its third reprint.

One specific accident which Rosa Saturday 2 August, 7pm to 10pm, describes in detail in her new book is gates open 6pm the landslip at Sonning Cutting near Old Town Bowl, Town Gardens Reading, on Christmas Eve 1841. Eight Swindon SN1 4EN travellers were killed when they were Featuring Pakistani Achievement flung out of open third class wagons Awards singer of the year SK1; House when a ‘GWR luggage train with of Commons culture award winner passengers’ collided with earth that safety regulations.”

Sona Walia and DCS, at the forefront of had slipped down the embankment Death, Dynamite and Destruction the UK Bhangra scene for over 30 years following heavy rain. is available as signed copies directly Tickets in advance: £17, adult; 5s to It was subsequently described as from Rosa, with the proceeds going to 15s £12, from the Visitor Information ‘the first bad Great Western accident,’ Rosa’s Nepali charity Angel’s OrphanCentre at Swindon Central Library. which was the spur for social reform. age. Contact her on 01793 764979.

Contact 01793 466454 or: infocen- Rosa said: “Whenever these events Alternatively, go to Pen and Paper tre@swindon.gov.uk took place it highlighted the dreadful bookshop in Victoria Road, or you can Note: Advanced non-refundable conditions that the railway companies purchase it online. tickets only. Licensed bar only. Picnics expected third class passengers to • Book by Swindon writers helps with soft drinks welcome. tolerate. Eventually the government women build prospects in Nepal. swindonmela.com was forced to respond by introducing See page 34

Swindon Mela Summer Dhamaka

Just your cup of tea if you love museums

New tearooms at the Richard Jefferies Museum on the edge of Coate Water Country Park are proving so successful that more people are needed to give a hand behind the scenes.

The museum, which is the birthplace of Swindon’s Victorian nature writer, has opened up a gate to the park and people are flocking to visit and enjoy a delicious Sunday afternoon cream tea in the gardens or indoors.

“We’ve always known how wonderful the old farmhouse and gardens are,” said Mike Pringle of the Richard Jefferies Museum Trust. “It’s exciting to see so many people discovering the place for themselves, and being amazed by the story of the man who lived there.”

The trust only took over the museum from Swindon Council a few months ago but already visitor numbers are soaring. Mike added “The museum is a fantastic, friendly place, with a well-organised kitchen. All we need is a couple of volunteers who love working with the public and fancy joining us on Sunday afternoons.”

To find out more, contact Mike at mike@richardjefferies.org or call 07768 917466.

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19 - 48 August 14.indd 20

18/07/2014 15:48

Railway history fires up imaginations of artists Following several weeks of study, skill and dedication, six artists have unveiled creations based on GWR engine parts and foundry patterns in a free exhibition called Industry to Art at Steam Museum.

The artists from the Bullpen Foundary in Oxfordshire developed

their response to the artefacts, reim- old shapes, using a copula furnace. at Steam, from 15 July until 10 August, agining iron castings - creating a fu The exhibition of cast iron sculp- 10am until 5pm. steam-museum.org.uk sion of industrial engineering and art. tures can be viewed in the Scraggery In preparation the artists took pho- Chris Johns with his piece - The Shell. Photo: Richard Wintle of Calyxpix.com tographs and made sketches to inspire their individual pieces and were able to use old GWR foundry patterns in their studio to create new casting from

STEAMing ahead for summer fun Whether it's climbing aboard famous steam locomotives, testing your skills as a signalman or taking the controls of the museum’s steam train simulator, STEAM has bucketfuls of fun planned for the school holidays.

Visitors can mount the footplate of locomotives such as the famous Swindonbuilt GWR Lode Star, walk underneath the magnificent Caerphilly Castle, and hear first-hand accounts and ask questions during the free fortnightly Meet the Railway Workers events on 26 July, 9 and 23 August, 10am to 4pm.

STEAM’s Summer Detective Trail also runs every day during the summer holidays to add an extra learning and fun dimension for families. And for a real summer bonus, the museum is offering children aged three to 16 the chance to visit for just £1 when accompanied by a full-paying adult.

To get this special offer which runs until 31 August, visitors need to complete the Kids for a Quid voucher, below, or download it from: steam-museum.org.uk Complete the details and hand it in at the ticket desk on arrival. STEAM is open every day from 10am to 5pm.

Book a place on the GWR Factory Trail and discover the history of a shopping centre

guides and is pictured, above, as a 15 year old apprentice in the giant ‘A Shop.’

There are tours lined up on 23 August; 13, 14 and 25 September; and 6 and 7 December, but hurry, spaces are limited.

Book a place by emailing: secretary@rodbournehistory.org or phoning 01793 616558.

Kids for a Quid at STEAM – Museum of the Great Western Railway

J2411

This voucher entitles children aged 3-16 years to visit STEAM any day of the week between 19 July and 31 August for just £1when accompanied by a full-paying adult.

Under 3s go free!

STEAM Museum of the Great Western Railway

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

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If you’ve ever wondered about the history of the Designer Outlet shopping centre, then make a date for a fascinating tour of the former railway workshops.

Rodbourne Community History Group is running a series of tours around the site to look at where Swindon’s heritage and economic success was built by thousands of people working in the famed GWR Railway Works.

Rodbournites with personal memories of working ‘inside’ will talk about their everyday lives of building and maintaining locomotives and rolling stock, and the dozens of trades associated with keeping the railway going in the past.

Ron Johnson, 79, is one of the tour

I am interested in receiving details of future leisure and culture events and offers from Swindon Borough Council.

[ ] (please tick box)

Name: Email: Postcode:

Terms and conditions: Valid between 19 July and 31 August 2014.

Up to 4 children visit for £1 when accompanied by an adult.

swindonlink.com • August 2014 21

19 - 48 August 14.indd 21

18/07/2014 15:54

Magazine focuses on famous windmill

A warm welcome awaits at the new look Windmill, Hello neighbours, customers new and old.

The Windmill in Freshbrook has recently undergone a major refurbishment and has refreshed the pub layout with separate food, darts and pool areas. The sport viewing has also been improved and we regularly feature sports on Sky, BT and terrestrial TV. We also boast one of the best pub gardens in Swindon!

The centrepiece of the Windmill Hill Business Park in West Swindon is one of the stories that will be featured in the autumn edition of Swindon Heritage magazine, to be published at the end of August.

“He was often there with his camera, The park’s iconic windmill originally stood in Chiseldon, but was moved, recording events at Chiseldon and stone by stone and rebuilt in the 1980s. Windmill Hill as they unfolded, which The process was captured by long he describes.”

The new edition will also feature serving Swindon freelance photographer Richard Wintle, whose images Royal Wootton Bassett-based funfair family, the Scarrotts. often feature in The Link magazine.

There’s an article about an imHis archive pictures create a fascinating feature on the re-purposing printed brick from St Mary’s Church in of an historic building. Editor Graham Lydiard Park. Read more on page 29.

The quarterly Swindon Heritage is Carter said: “I expect some newcomers to Swindon think the windmill has available from various outlets around always been there, so we are telling town for £4.99. swindonheritage.com its story through Richard’s images.

Reflection of the Chiseldon Windmill shortly after re-building in West Swindon in the early 1980s

by Richard Wintle of Calyxpix.com

Photo: Richard Wintle www.calyxpix.com

Many people have commented positively about The Windmill’s new open plan, yet warm homely feeling and the changes have gone down well with our locals.

The pub has a fresh, new atmosphere, which is very female, and family friendly.

We’re also becoming famous for our food with the kitchen recently being awarded a 5* Kitchen Hygiene report, the highest rating possible. We now serve food for longer: Monday to Sunday 11am to 10pm.

We have lots of entertainment coming up: Acoustic sets, Old School Disco, Live Bands, as well as Red Tooth Poker on Wednesdays, 7pm; free pool on Thursdays, 7pm; a meat raffle on Sundays, 3pm; and a quiz night on Sundays, 9pm.

We also run sports sweepstakes for the Championship and Premier Leagues, £20/£30 buy in and £2/3 weekly to win big money at the end of the season.

Places can fill fast so sign up soon.

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01/03/2013 11:18:06 18/07/2014 15:55

Ten years on and the public loves Lydiard even more This year is the tenth anniversary of the project that started the transformation of Lydiard Park.

The summer of 2004 saw a range of work and events take place before a grant of £3 million from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) was received to restore significant landscape features and improve visitor attractions.

The main event that summer was a major dig by Wessex Archaeology, including regular visits by Time Team presenter Phil Harding.

The excavation involved over 1,000 volunteers, and uncovered the layout of the 18th Century walled garden, including original paths, beds, a well and trough and outer walls.

A kiln was also found at the bottom of the main lawn in front of the house where it is believed bricks were produced to build the walled garden.

Close to the former lake edge, diggers uncovered a fascinating structure originally thought to be a boathouse.

After closer study it was concluded this was a cold plunge pool, for Frederick, 2nd Viscount Bolingbroke, which was also restored.

The success of the dig and a series of community events that summer, including a Living History Project involving secondary school students

Time Team’s Phil Harding (far left) with archaeologists in the plunge pool

studying the Civil War who watched a battle re-enactment outside the house, helped win the HLF grant the following January.

Most of the restoration work was completed by 2007, the centre piece being the reinstatement of a twoacre ‘lost lake’, which had been dry for nearly a century following the collapse of the dam. Around it heavy horses were used to pull out a large number of felled trees.

The dam was rebuilt to retain the water and another between the

two lakes was repaired over which a Chinese-style bridge was built.

The Grade II Listed coach house, today housing the tearooms and education centre, and the ice house were also restored.

A decade on the battle to preserve Lydiard Park and House continues.

Swindon Council’s decision to transfer leisure assets to external management has generated fears for the future of this much loved heritage resource.

• Heritage Lottery application for St Mary’s Church - see page 29.

Sharing the love all summer long

Quality green spaces are essential to healthy, happy communities - that’s the message of this year’s Love Parks Week.

Taking place between 25 July and 3 August, the week is both a celebration of the benefits of our public open spaces and a campaign for continual reinvestment.

Love Parks Week, organised by the Keep Britain Tidy Campaign, was first marked in 2006 with the simple aim of encouraging more people to visit, enjoy and take pride in their local parks and green spaces.

One of Swindon’s favourite open spaces, Lydiard Park, will be hosting a series of events this summer, including some during Love Parks Week.

The historic walled garden behind Lydiard House will be open on Sunday 27 July as part of the National Gardens scheme.

On Wednesday, 30 July families can enjoy If You Go Down to the Woods Today – part of a series of Story Walks running through the summer holidays.

For more about the park and summer activities see the listings on pages 26, or lydiardpark.org.uk loveparksweek.org

Summer Spa Day only £109 Spa 6, The perfect place to focus on relaxation and well-being.

Your day will include: • Use of the facilities from 9.30am-5.30pm to include the hydrotherapy pool, Sauna, steam room, experience showers, heated pool side loungers and ice fountain • Complimentary refreshments through your day in our spa lounge • Spa day lunch • Towels, fluffy robe & slippers through your day The following treatments to get you ready for the Summer: • Aroma time precious facial • Geleration Gel nails overlay manicure or pedicure • Skin Bliss body exfoliations

To book call 01285 864071 www.spa6.co.uk • waterpark.leisure@four-pilars.co.uk Spa 6 • Cotswold Water Park Four Pillars Hotel • Lake 6, Spine Road East, South Cerney, Gloucestershire, GL7 5FP Available Sunday –Friday from 1st July – 31st September 2014 Terms and conditions apply.

swindonlink.com • August 2014 23

19 - 48 August 14.indd 23

18/07/2014 15:57

Penrhos layout – Picture courtesy of Hornby Magazine

Join the Summer Reading Challenge

THE BIG GWR EVENT OF THE YEAR

Saturday 13 and Sunday 14 September 2014

Swindon Library Service has set an ambitious target of encouraging children in the town to read 14,000 books over the summer holidays.

The Reading Agency’s free annual Youngsters can sign up at their Summer Reading Challenge aims to local library and after reading their help children maintain their skills and first book they can follow a trail at confidence so that they’re ready for Swindon Museum and Art Gallery school next term. for the chance to win a special prize.

This year’s theme is the Mythical When they’ve read four books they Maze and runs until 7 September. will receive a voucher for a free DVD There is an interactive website which and there are also stickers to be collinks children with top authors and lected as they read more. illustrators, and gives them space to Find out more and register to take talk about their favourite books and part by visiting a Swindon Library. share reading ideas. mythical-maze.org.uk

10.00 am to 5.00 pm

Outings with children during the holidays

Celebrate the UK’s best model railways at STEAM – Museum of the Great Western Railway

There’s tons to do at Roves Farm near Highworth throughout the holidays with new themes to make visits even more fun.

Join Pete Waterman and Hornby Magazine for the ultimate display of model railway layouts, traders, steam vehicles and hands-on modelling demonstrations

Youngsters can hunt bears, become superheros, learn about and make butterflies, and dig up a dinosaur. The dates can be found on page 26.

In addition to the activities at Roves, the Woolly Sheep Tearoom always provide a welcome break and you can come away with a range of produce which will remind you of your visit.

See the advert below left.

A Railway at War - A major new exhibition examining the role of the GWR and its employees during WW1

367/14

Admission: Adults £10.00; Children £7.50 and Seniors £8.50; Family tickets £25.00 (two adults, one child) and £30.00 (two adults, two children).

Under threes go free

STEAM - Museum of the Great Western Railway | Fire Fly Avenue | Swindon | SN2 2EY Tel: (01793) 466637 | www.steam-museum.org.uk www.facebook.com/steammuseum @steam_museum

Key supporter:

There are more than just butterflies to see at Studley Grange Butterfly World, just off M4 Junction 16.

There are meerkat pups, orphan lambs, rare breed fowl, a tortoise and 30 ex-battery hens enjoying retirement, as well as otters, goats, pigs, guinea pigs, lizards and snakes.

More caterpillars than ever before have been appearing in both greenhouses; meaning even more beautiful butterflies flying and hiding among the leaves.

Find out more at: studleygrange.co.uk or call 01793 852400.

Roves Farm

367 Swindon ad QP.indd 1

09/05/2014 10:35

A great day out, come rain or shine

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24 swindonlink.com • August 2014

19 - 48 August 14.indd 24

18/07/2014 18:42

Tregoze pupil is the king of the cakes

Cookery school’s lesson in super foods

Tregoze Primary School pupil Anton Wildschek took the top prize in a cake- A cookery school in North Swindon is holding a special two hour class to making ‘bake-off’ organised to mark the 20th anniversary of Basepoint help people understand how to get the healthy benefits of fruit and veg.

Business Centres.

It takes place at Rusland Cookery lenge for sweet-toothed puddingSchool in Haydon Wick on Tuesday 12 lovers. John Bridgeman of Rusland August, 6.30pm, where participants has stepped in with this new class in will learn how to create tasty and response to requests for help in crevery healthy desserts like cheesecakes ating a vegan dessert without using and tortes. gluten and refined sugar. Students Organiser and natural health sci- will find out how to create tasty pudences nutritionist Mandy Parsons said: dings while learning how to make “Public awareness of the importance ingredients hold together without of fruit and vegetables in our diets has cooking them.” been brought to the fore in Swindon Ingredients, equipment and tuiby The Core juice bar in Old Town, tion are included in the £48 fee, £20 and the work of food producers like of which will be taken as a deposit.

Purton House Organics.

To find out more or book, call “We all know how important it is Mandy Parsons on 01793 644472, or Anton with headteacher Claire Leach and Basepoint manager Lyn Chapman, right to look after ourselves and enjoy our 07736 314912, or mail: raw-highed@ The company challenged primary him awarded for his creative efforts. mealtimes, but this presents a chal- virginmedia.com schools near each of its 30 serviced Basepoint’s Swindon manager, Lyn office centres to come up with a cel- Chapman, said: “We were absolutely ebratory design for the competition, delighted that a school less than two which ran during May and June. There miles from our centre won this won- Breakthrough Breast Cancer is again calling on bakers across the UK to were eight regional winners across derful prize. Anton came up with a make cakes and help save lives for this year’s super-sweet fundraiser to the South of England, East Anglia and super design, based on the Basepoint help Breakthrough’s life-saving research.

Wales, but the overall winning design 20th anniversary logo. He seemed Whether you’re a master-baker, a or making scrumptious snacks at was by Anton, who won a £20 book quite surprised that his talents had practicing pâtissier, keen home baker, school. Bake Off day is 17 October, token and a £600 book voucher for been recognised, so it was lovely to or somebody who wants flour power, but you can hold an event any time, his school. present him with his award.” all you need to do is gather friends, anywhere during October’s Breast On 4 July all the children assembled Anton was also praised by family or colleagues to share home- Cancer Awareness Month. in the school hall to hear who the win- headteacher Claire Leach who said baked goodies and raise some cash.

Find out more at: breakthrough.org. ner was, and – unknown to Anton – his the whole school were proud and Ideas could include a boardroom uk/bakeoff or call Breakthrough’s Bake mother was also in attendance to see delighted by his success. bake sale, competition in the kitchen Off team on 08080 100 200.

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18/07/2014 16:00

Swindon Wide What’s On

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Saturdays 9th and 23rd 10am to 4pm Wednesday 30 July Meet the Railway Workers. Former to Friday 8 August engine drivers, firemen and railway Superhero School. Test your strength workers bring the days of steam to and agility as you duck, dive and life. Normal admission charges. STEAM dodge your way through Roves elite training course. Normal admission Saturday 9th to Tuesday 19th prices. Roves Farm. See the advert on Hungry Caterpillar. Feed the wibbly, wobbly hungry caterpillar on the page 24 tractor ride to help him grow into a Sunday 3rd, 1pm & 3.30pm big beautiful butterfly. Normal admisMilkshake! Live. Brand new songs, sion prices. Roves Farm. See the advert classic favourites, lots of fun and audion page 24 ence interaction. £13.50; child £11.50; Friday 15th, 6.30pm family £46. Wyvern Alice Through the Looking Glass.

Enjoy open air theatre with the comedy, music and magic of Lewis Carroll’s timeless classic. £14; child £10; family £42, to book call 01793 524481.

Lydiard Park Friday 15th & Saturday 16th, 10am to 2pm Really Roman Creative Workshops.

Friday: make a laurel leaf head-dress or a mosaic coaster; Saturday: choose between a Roman badge or a book mark. All materials provided. £2/child.

Swindon Museum & Art Gallery Wednesday 20 August to Monday 1 September Jurassic Farm. Join the ranger and dig up, detect and even discover a brand new species of dinosaur. Normal Story Walks in the Woods admission prices. Roves Farm. See the Join story tellers in Lydiard Park eve- advert on page 24 ry Wednesday during the summer Tuesday 26th, 2pm & 4.30pm holidays and explore the seasonal Angelina Ballerina The Mousical. signs of summer around the park Everyone’s favourite little star will while well-known stories, rhymes be pirouetting onto the stage in this magical show of singing and dancing. and poems are brought to life. £13.50; child £11.50; family £46. Wyvern Wednesday 30 July: If You Go Down to the Woods Today, including the stories: We’re Going on a Thursday 21st to Sunday 24th.

Bear Hunt, Goldilocks and the Three Thurs - Sat, 7.30pm; Sat 2.30pm; Bears and Winnie the Pooh (and Sun 1pm Some Bees).

Bugsy Malone. Wyvern Theatre SumWednesday 6 August: Where mer Youth Project 2014. Talented local the Willow Tree Meets the Water, young people present this fantastic including: The Three Billy Goats show featuring all Bugsy songs. £12 Gruff, Tadpole’s Promise and The - £14. Wyvern Ugly Duckling.

Musical

Wednesday 13 August: It’s a Bug’s Life including the stories: The Hungry Caterpillar, James and the Giant Peach and Charlotte’s Webb.

Wednesday 20 August: In the Deep Dark Forest, including the stories: Little Red Riding Hood, The Gruffalo and Ferocious Wild Beasts.

  

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Wednesday 27 August: How Does Your Garden Grow? including: The Tiny Seed, The Tale of Peter Rabbit and Jack and the Beanstalk.

Two sessions are available each day: 11am to 12.30pm and 1pm to 2.30pm.

They are suitable for children 5 to 9 years, £5 per child. Timed tickets are available from the Coach House Activity Centre from 10am on the day.

Venues

Arts Centre Devizes Road SN1 4BJ. Tel: 524481 Central Library Regent Circus SN1 1QG. Tel: 463782 Lydiard House Lydiard Park SN5 3PA. Tel: 466664 Roves Farm Sevenhampton Nr Highworth SN6 7QG. Tel: 763939 STEAM Kemble Drive SN2 2EY. Tel: 466637 Swindon Information Centre Central Library SN1 1QG. Tel: 530328 Swindon Museum & Art Gallery Bath Road, SN1 4BA. Tel: 466556 Wyvern Theatre Theatre Square, SN1 1QN. Tel: 524481 Confirm date, time & price with venue

26 swindonlink.com • August 2014

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Sunday 3rd, 3pm Wroughton Silver Band. Free. Town Gardens Bandstand Sunday 10th, 3pm Central Southern Fellowship Band.

Free. Town Gardens Bandstand Sunday 24th, 3pm Highworth Silver Band. Free. Town Gardens Bandstand Friday 29th, 7.30pm Boot-Led-Zeppelin. The definitive homage to one of the world’s most legendary rock bands. £20. Wyvern

Swindon & Wiltshire Pride

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Saturday 9 August Town Gardens, Old Town Principal supporter: Thames Water

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Fundraising Coffee and Cake Morning Saturday 30 August 10.30am to 12 noon Toothill Church All proceeds to church funds

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Exhibition Until 10 August, 10am until 5pm The Scraggery. An exhibition of cast iron sculptures. Steam Museum. See page 21 Until Saturday 27 September, Wed to Sat, 11am to 3pm and from 10am during school holidays About Face. Portraits & figure studies from the Swindon collection of modern art works. Free. Swindon Museum & Art Gallery. See page 28

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totallydivine.net Marcus Collins, X Factor star, headlines the Pride Festival

The parade starts at 11.15am from the Town Gardens and returns to the Stephen G Sloan Stage for the launch of the event at midday.

The Thames Water Stage starts at 1.30pm and will feature many diverse, local and national artists.

The Stephen G Sloan Stage hosts up and coming musicians.

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swindonlink.com • August 2014 27

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About Face at Swindon Museum & Art Gallery The latest free exhibition, open Wednesday to Saturday, 11am to 3pm and from 10am during school holidays, until 27 September, brings together portraits and figure studies from the Swindon Collection of Modern Art to give a fresh perspective of this most compelling of artistic subjects.

On display is a maquette or model of The Watchers by the late Swindon sculptor Carleton Attwood, assisted by Pat Elmore, which was unveiled at Toothill Village Centre in June 1982.

His painting Magnolia is included in the About Face exhibition

Freshbrook sculpture looks better than ever

The £90,000 revamp of Freshbrook Village Centre officially launched in May included a new surface under Nexus, the large sculpture unveiled by Japanese sculptor Hideo Furuta in November 1986.

Giving our 3D White Horse a makeover Swindon Link has been discussing with Swindon Council about tidying up Julie Livesy’s 1987 sculpture, White Horse Pacified, off Cartwright Drive, Shaw.

The trees have been cut back and the structure is partially cleaned, but a full repair and repainting is needed.

See images of West Swindon sculptures at: bit. ly/westsculpt Contact Swindon Link for a location map.

Jon Ratcliffe with Freshbrook councillor Mick Bray appreciating Nexus

He was commissioned by Thamesdown Council to create one of the many artworks around West Swindon.

Hideo laboured in all weathers for 6 months shaping four large blocks of stone into a permanent feature.

Nexus is carved from Blue Pennant stone from a quarry in South Wales, which is said to be the source of the stones which form Stonehenge.

Freshbrook resident John Ratcliffe, who has kept an eye on Nexus since he was child said he was pleased it

is now better presented. “I’ve known Nexus for over 25 years as I passed it every day on the way to Windmill Hill Primary School. The pyramid on the top of the rocks suspended over the empty space has always had an air of mystery about it.

“I’m really glad residents can now appreciate it better.”

After Swindon Hideo went on to build an international reputation, settling in Scotland in the 1990s where he died in December 2007, aged 57.

28 swindonlink.com • August 2014

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Lydiard brick reveals fingerprints from 300 years ago When Rev Canon Brian Carne arrived for the recent annual general meeting of the Friends of Lydiard Park, he brought with him a present from the past.

Rev Carne was rector at St Mary’s Over 30 years ago, members of the By 1977 the tomb was in a sorry not exciting enough, Brian discovered Church in the 1960s and was instru- congregation at St Mary’s were also state and supported by a cradle of scaf- the marks of the brickmaker’s fingers mental in establishing the Friends of busy fundraising to pay for the restora- folding, so conservator John Green on one of the bricks left underneath.

Lydiard Tregoz, which later became tion of some of the memorials inside was engaged to repair, clean and “It was one that had been placed the Friends of Lydiard Park. the church, including the polyptych preserve this important monument. in the kiln before it had dried out,” A leading authority on the priceless and the magnificent St John tomb.

It was during this work that Canon said Brian. “It was probably made on St John monuments in the church, Made of alabaster, with chalk and Brian Carne came across a humble but site in Lydiard Park but was surplus to he published a book called Curiously black limestone, the monument fascinating link with Lydiard’s history. requirements.”

Painted about the magnificent St John commemorates Sir John St John, first The tremendous weight of the No longer needed to support the polyptych - see story below.

Baronet, his two wives and the 13 chil- monument required considerable St John tomb, this modest artefact At the Friends’ AGM, which took dren he had with his first wife, Anne support beneath the church floor, and has been registered with the Lydiard place in the neo-Palladian hall of Leighton. Sir John commissioned it, during the restoration work a pile of House team as an important hisLydiard House, members heard about 14 years before his death.

17th Century bricks was discovered torical artefact for preservation and the next phase of the conservation It was made in London, most prob- to be doing this job. And if that was exhibition. project at St Mary’s. ably by Nicholas Stone, a leading 17th With the first stage completed in Century English sculptor, and trans2013, former keeper of Lydiard House, ported to Lydiard Tregoze in sections, Sarah Finch Crisp, delivered an update where it was reassembled in the then to the group. new south aisle of the church.

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One of town’s most important heritage assets attracts tourists Visitors flocked to St Mary’s Church, Lydiard Tregoze to see the unique 17th Century polyptych during special viewings this summer.

Usually locked shut, the rare and church has submitted an applicapriceless artwork was on show on tion to the Heritage Lottery Fund. If Sunday afternoons in May and June, successful the grant will enable the with members of the congregation historic interior of the church and its describing the church’s treasures. many treasures to be preserved for Visitors were particularly captivated future generations.” to hear that Elizabeth I worshipped at However the appeal needs to raise the church in 1592 on a visit to the St £370,000 to match-fund the grant.

John family in Lydiard House. Most The application decision is due to were surprised that one of our great- be delivered in a few weeks, shortly est monarchs had been to Swindon, before a visit to St Mary’s by the Archalthough the hilltop town was three bishop of Canterbury Justin Welby on miles away at the time.

13 September, which coincides with St Mary’s Conservation Appeal national Heritage Weekend, when the coordinator Hilary Gardner said: “Our polyptych and the ‘red queen’ panel visitors, including those who came to will again be open for public display. the flower festival at the end of June, were generous in donating to the appeal.

“The Link recently reported that the The portrait of St John family matriach Margaret Beauchamp in St Mary’s.

Photo: Richard Wintle of calypix.com swindonlink.com • August 2014 29

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Novice cyclist dons lycra to ride charity race in aid of Dressability A Swindon woman is taking part in the 100 mile Prudential Ride London on 10 August that she effectively entered by accident.

Laura Chadwick, 28 from Rodbourne, is supporting Swindon Dressability, where her mum Pam helps altering clothes for disabled people.

In just 7 months, from being a novice cyclist, she is now riding 100 miles at a time, training while holding down a full-time job with the Ministry of Laura, training with members of Dame Cycling Defence and completing a masters degree in information thought what an absolute privilege it would be to ride along the streets capability management.

Laura explained how she came to of London. It’s going to be a unique be in a ride she never intended to experience to sprint along The Mall enter. “My brother is a much more at the end.”

Laura’s blog - laurakate8503.wordexperienced cyclist and he borrowed my identity to apply for a place in the press.com - documents the trials and London ride, hoping that if he didn’t tribulations of building up her endurget through as himself he could take ance, and in particular what happened my place. Of course he didn’t get a when she broke the 80 mile barrier.

Support her and donate to Dressplace but I did, and then we found out that the entry was non-transferable. ability at: mydonate.bt.com/fundrais“I wasn’t really a cyclist, but I ers/laurakate

Charity chairman’s London swansong After 20 years as the man behind some of Swindon MS Therapy Centre’s biggest fundraising achievements, David Wray is going out in style by also competing in the Prudential RideLondon.

David getting ready for the ride with help of therapy centre members

The 100 mile cycling event provides the opportunity for amateurs and fundraisers to ride the same closed roads as professionals who will race once the charity riders have finished, and the action will be broadcast live on TV. Over 21 years David has become a familiar sight collecting for the charity.

For the last 11 years he has been chairman, overseeing the 2010 purchase of the charity’s own building in Westlea and coordinating the effort to meet the £160,00 annual running costs.

David will also be leaving Voluntary Action Swindon where he has been chief executive for the last five years. His wife Jackie, who has been the manager at the MS Therapy Centre for ten years, will be stepping down. A new life beckons for both in November.

Sponsor David at: uk.virginmoneygiving.com/DavidandJackieWray 30 swindonlink.com • August 2014

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17/07/2014 10:57

Boxing old boy inspires young sporting talent Swindon boxer Jamie Cox was guest of honour at the Lydiard Park Academy sports presentation evening at the De Vere Village in early July.

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Jamie, centre, with some of the winners of the 84 awards given out on the night. Photo: Richard Wintle of Calyxpix.com

Jamie, who left Greendown School, as it then was, in 2002, took part in a question and answer session about what he remembers about his school days, why he took up boxing and what

he likes and dislikes about being a professional sportsman.

As an amateur he won gold as a welterweight at the 2006 Melbourne Commonwealth Games before turn-

ing professional where he has won all 17 of his bouts.

Earlier this year he was Amir Khan’s sparring partner on the way to winning two international welterweight titles.

Jamie is considering his next move and is planning to return to the ring in September, either in Britain or A West Swindon fitness charity has received a funding boost thanks to a possibly in the USA. When not training for a bout, Jamie £1,000 donation from Sovereign Housing Association’s West of England is a partner in the fotsPOR fitness cenRegional Panel. tre at Crowood House, Gipsy Lane.

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Boxing instructor Paul Rogers, centre, with some of members of Scrappers gym at Langley Road

Scrappers Boxing Gym is located at the 24HourGym on Langley Road on the Hillmead Estate, just off Mead Way. The charity aims to help people aged between 13 and 24 engage in sport and use boxing as a way to instill self-esteem and increase fitness at a reasonable price.

The group holds sessions every day except Saturday and costs just £3 to attend. Help is also available to those on a limited income. Sarah Watts, chair of Sovereign’s regional panel said: “It is great to see a group that provides a fun and low-cost way for young people to get fit whilst learning new skills”.

The £1,000 donation is going towards helping pay for Scrappers Boxing Gym’s premises and fund

instructors to teach different fitness classes.

Oliver McCann, Scrappers Gym’s project manager, commented: “Before we started the club, there was no affordable place for young people to get fit. Now we’re able to provide a place where they can get healthy, learn respect and work better with others without having to pay higher prices or a membership fee.”

“We currently can have up to 40 people in a gym session, but the money received from Sovereign means we can run more classes that will help more people which is fantastic.”

For details about joining, call 01793 513982 or mail: swss@scrapstore.co.uk scrappersgym.com

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18/07/2014 16:06

Free events planned for sport centre open day

Wiltshire Roller Derby presents Blocktor Who

Link Centre is opening its doors to everyone for a fun-packed day of free activities on Saturday 30 August.

Toddlers to under 12s Running between 10am and 5pm, Head for heights Live action, space and time it follows the success of last year’s Try out the climbing walls with expert Have a go on the trampolines and (but no mime) full contact, event, providing the chance to try a guidance from 10.30am to 5pm. No pre-school Mini Mover dance classes. roller derby need to book. Each participant will Seniors wide range of sports. in support of Swindon Mind have 5 climbs per entry.

Skating for newcomers Enjoy a tea dance master class in the Sunday 10 August Have a go in one of the 30 minute In the sports hall community hall.

Oasis Leisure Centre introduction sessions, from 10am Football taster sessions: In the mall North Star Avenue SN2 1EP to 12noon.

11am to 1pm; Dance mats and table tennis for all Doors open 1pm Badminton taster sessions: In the pool to have a go.

Adults (16+) £6 advance; door £8 1pm to 5pm.

• Junior beginner lessons for In the library Children (u15) £3 advance; door £4 5+ years, and for children aged Fitness taster sessions: Open as normal 9.30am to 4pm, with Under 5s free 7+ who can swim at least 9am to 12.45pm pre-school storytime at 10.30am. www.wiltshirerollerderby.co.uk 100 metres.

Body Attack, Body Balance, Body Take a tour • Rookie Lifeguard sessions Jam and Body Pump as well as RPM If you’re new to Link Centre or haven’t • Flip & Fun Diving - jumping, Express for 16+ years. visited for a while, staff will be giving tumbling and splashing Children aged nine and over can tours and advice on getting active.

• Family Wet ’n’ Wild fun work out in the TeenNRG circuit Drop in for up to date details or see: • Meet the Swindon Dolphin and class, and for cyclists over 11s there leisureinswindon.co.uk/link-centre Tiger Shark swimming clubs. is Teen SpinRG.

Smash supporters wanted to launch its first dosh dash Looking for fun, friendship and fitness?

BEGINNERS RUNNING COURSES In just 10 weeks we will help you run non-stop for 30 minutes (approx. 5km) INFORMATION AND REGISTRATION EVENING Tuesday 2nd Sept, 7.30pm at Unit 8, Star West, Westmead Drive, SN5 7SW For more information call Clare on 07793 573487

Smash, the Swindon charity that supports vulnerable young people by teaming them up with trained mentors, is holding its first ever Smash Dash for Cash on a 10 mile course around Barbury Castle on Sunday 7 September.

Individuals, families or a team There will be prizes for the about themselves, not as problems can enter and they can get round on most sponsorship raised, the first in- that need fixing but a story about foot, on a bike, on a horse, hopping, dividual and the first team to finish, energetic, creative, hopeful and dancing, in a pram or behind a team the oldest, the youngest and the healthy young people who just need of huskies - any means is acceptable, so person or team completing the course a little encouragement and support long as you don’t use an engine. in the most style. to become everything they want Rob Chappell, managing director to be. Smash believes in Swindon’s of Smash, said: “All the children and young people when sometimes no Bujin Martial Arts young people who work with Smash one else does.”

UK’s only full time have chosen to do so themselves and Smash currently has some lottery Ninjutsu dojo have decided that it is time for change. funding but £50,000 has to be raised We offer: Separate adult & junior classes “Lots will have suffered traumas by the charity this year to match the Family discounts like bereavement or abuse while lottery grant.

Lessons 6 days/week Small class sizes others may be being bullied at school The dash prizes are being sponsored Outdoor training or have problems at home, or in the by Nuffield Health so that all your Street awareness neighbourhoods in which they live. cash will go to Smash.

Close protection skills Some of the many skills you will learn: “Young people who work with Find out more and register to take part locking, striking, throws, takedowns, Smash can start to tell a new story at smashyouthproject.co.uk

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Junior football

Team players needed

Lydiard Millicent Junior Football Club is looking for boys and girls to join their new under 8 team, under 9 s, under 10 and under 12 squads for the 2014/15 season.

For details contact Gerald Kent on 07533679298 or mail: gerald.kent@tesco.net

Netballers wanted Ferndale Netball Club welcomes new players of all abilities over the age of 12.

Players can join in the Swindon & District league or just enjoy keeping fit and having fun. Training at Lydiard Park Academy, Grange Park, on Mondays, 7.45pm to 9pm, starts on 1 September.

For details call Joy Blake on 01793 872237 or 07968 294861.

Burmah Netball Club is very popular with girls and ladies of all ages and currently has four teams of all abilities in the Swindon & District League.

The club trains on Wednesdays, 7.30pm to 9.15pm at Lydiard Park Academy, starting on 13 August.

The club is sponsored by financial advisors Carter Moore LLP. For a second year it is raising funds for Swindon Children’s Cancer and Leukaemia Movement (CALM). For details and to join call Sharron Ashman on 07982 782020.

32 swindonlink.com • August 2014

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18/07/2014 16:09

Pilates classes to nuture and strengthen

Free course to get kids active and healthy

Matt’s end of year Rome run on target In 2014, Matt Cordas from Lydiard Millicent is running a minimum of 5.64km every day in aid of the St. James’s Place Foundation totalling over 2,000 kilometres, which is the distance from Cirencester, where he works for St James’ Place financial services, to the Eternal City.

He’s passed the half way stage and will be including October’s Swindon Half Marathon in his target.

Matt is looking forward to making his final run in Rome on 31 December to see in the new year.

He’s well on the way to achieving his fundraising target of £5,000. Help him exceed this figure at: justgiving.com/mattcordas-365days Keep up with him on Facebook: Matts 2014 Challenge

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3 NEW community classes starting TUESDAY 2nd September Healthy HIT Pilates from £6

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11.15am, Yoga Shak, Swindon; 7.30pm, Uplands School, North Swindon CLASSES SUITABLE FOR ALL LEVELS To book please call/text: 07913 685875 or email: debs.shopland@gmail.com www.dspilates.co.uk

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Run by Swindon Borough Council, ioural change which is approached the free sessions for 5 to 16 year olds in a supportive and empathetic way. will restart in September: The programme involves increasInfants & Juniors programme (5 to ing physical activity for all family 11 years old), Oasis Leisure Centre, members with practical sessions to North Star Avenue SN2 1EP help improve lifestyle choices that Seniors programme (12 to 16s), Link emphasise healthy eating and physiCentre, Whitehill Way, SN5 7DL cal activity.

The specialist children’s and young Over the 10 sessions children and people’s weight management pro- their families will be inspired and gramme follows best practice as set motivated and make new friends out in NICE guidelines. along the way.

Led by approachable and knowlFor details contact Emma Sperring: edgeable health experts experienced ESperring@swindon.gov.uk or call in working with children and families, 01793 465412 or 07818 510563. the core of the programme is behavank.uk.com

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If yes, then sign up with the Pilates Instito one of the new comtute, London. Having munity Pilates classes also trained in fitness starting soon with DebPilates, Healthy HIT Pibie Shopland who offers: lates and with acclaimed • Healthy HIT Pilates body control Pilates she - a high energy, cardio is now combining her and functional strength knowledge and expertise workout fused with Pito bring these new acceslates core work. It’s the all- in- one, sible classes to Swindon.

45 minute ultimate workout leaving Pilates is highly regarded among the no muscle group untouched. performing arts world, athletes and • Specialist body control matwork with celebrities, although you do not Pilates - a traditional mind/body have to be any of these to benefit. It class focusing on spinal alignment, will help everybody to build a strong mobility, flexibility and core strength. foundation to stay free of niggles, Numbers will be limited for this class aches and pains by nurturing and deto allow for specialist teaching. veloping the body from the inside out.

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18/07/2014 16:14

Book written by 100 British women boosts income and health revolution in Nepal ‘A Day in the Life…’ published by the Swindon based 100 Women Book Project has sold over 800 copies, and been able to provide start-up funds for 153 family enterprises in some of the poorest regions of Nepal.

The project was the brainchild of their lives, book sales have started to West Swindon, said: “The project the rural economy.”

Rosa and Ian Matheson from High- make huge differences to the quality aims to teach people how to farm Each family receives a tiny bursary worth who have travelled to Nepal of life of Nepali women and their the indigenous herbs that are used of £7, which is about one sixth of the many times in the last few years and families. in herbal and Western medicine, current expected annual income of a lead the Angel’s Orphanage charity Over £1,000 has been sent to the which are then sold to large pharma- family picking and selling herbs from which provides a home and education Mountain and Aromatic Herb-farm- ceutical companies through farmers’ the wild. However sales of the farmed for a group of street children. ing Project at the Mountain Institute, cooperatives. plants have increased each woman’s They launched the business devel- to train and equip women to establish “Using sustainable cultivation yearly income to $1,000 or more, opment project in 2011. By asking profitable herb rotation crops. methods the women prevent the which over five years could represent 100 women in Britain to write about Ian, a retired GP who worked in destruction of the natural environ- revenue of over three quarters of a ment whilst the income from their million dollars distributed across Nepal farmers with a copy of the 100 Women Book work is a significant contribution to many villages.

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The 100 Women Book has also helped a doctor reach her 56,000 patients living in a vast mountainous area of Nepal.

Until recently Dr Archana KC had to walk for hours to see people in villages and farms dotted across valleys and mountains. The project provided her with money to purchase a second-hand scooter so that she can now make her rounds much more quickly and particularly attend emergencies.

In March Dr Archana spent time at St George’s Hospital in London on a Health Partnership Nepal attachment. She stayed with Ian and Rosa Matheson and was able to attend the International Women’s Day event in Swindon town centre, right. the100womenbookproject.com angelsorphanage.com

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Dr Archana with a member of Swindon’s Zambian community

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Highworth scout to bungee for Jamboree Fifteen year old scout Annabel Seeley from the Phoenix Archer Explorer Unit is preparing for a spine-tingling challenge this summer to raise funds for her ticket to the World Scout Jamboree in Kirara-hama, Japan in 2015.

Describing her upcoming adventure Annabel said: “We have a family holiday to South Africa in the summer and even though I am petrified of heights I’m going to bungee 100 metres from the iconic Orlando Towers in Johannesburg.”

Annabel has to raise £3,500 to be able to attend the World Scout Jamboree, which is the 23rd jamboree since the very first one took place in London in 1920. It will coincide with the 70th anniversary of the Hiroshima bomb, therefore it is very fitting for it to take place in Japan, and a bursary for scout groups from for the theme to be ‘spirit of unity’. developing countries. The Wiltshire Annabel will join a group of 30 contingent is especially lucky because scouts and leaders travelling from we get to host a solidarity patrol, a Wiltshire to the jamboree, which is group of 9 scouts and a leader from a the biggest youth peace event in the developing country who will get the world. Tens of thousands of scouts and experience of a lifetime too.” guides from all over the world will live Annabel has already been raising together, share activities and experi- funds through stalls at local fayres, as ence one another’s culture for ten days well as doing bag packs and working from 28 July to 8 August 2015. with schools.

Commenting on what’s included in To support her bungee jump visit the fund Annabel said: “Each scout’s ydonate.bt.com/fundraisers/annafund includes an amount towards belseeley1

Puppy Skool goes on the road to help Swindon’s Needy Dogs Pupil’s from Janet’s Puppy Skool took part in a dog agility course during the Old Town Rotary Duck Race on May Bank Holiday, raising money for Swindon’s Needy Dogs.

Eat and/or run for Swindon Guide Dogs Following a great response The Crown Inn, Stratton is holding another Great British Classics Menu charity night in aid of Swindon Guide Dogs 4Joy Appeal on Wednesday 20 August.

On the menu will be fish & chips, pie & mash, liver & onions, cottage pie and bangers & mash.

The price is £7.95 a dish, £5 of which goes to the charity.

The evening starts at 7pm with last orders at 9.30pm. There will also be a raffle.

To book a table call 01793 827530 or mail: thecrownstratton@gmail. com

Runners wanted Swindon Guide Dogs is looking for people to support their Run4Joy appeal at the Swindon Half Marathon which takes place on 14 October.

Enter the half marathon, multiterrain run, or the family run.

Google: Swindon Half Marathon 2014 for details and to register or contact Alan Fletcher on 01793 827589 or mail: fletcas@sky.com to obtain a sponsorship form.

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Janet and Lisa Newman of Swindon Needy Dogs with Mack, centre, and Puppy Skool members from left, Karen Ponting and Yogi, Hilary Kirkup and Coco, Clare Brown and Tess

Explaining more about the charity Janet Garrett who runs the Puppy Skool said: “Swindon’s Needy Dogs rescues and rehomes stray dogs, as well as paying for veterinary care and finding foster carers whilst looking for permanent homes. They also feature Dog of the Week on their Facebook page.”

Janet packed up her equipment from the Puppy Skool in Haydon Wick and set up next to River Ray

duck race route at Wootton Bassett Rec. She said: “We’re delighted that we raised £192.50 on the day to go towards this very worthy local cause.

“The agility course also included elements of training against the clock and many of the Puppy Skool adult dogs competed multiple times in a bid to beat the times set by their friends. It certainly helped to boost the funds raised.” sndogs.org.uk

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www.thameswoodvets.co.uk swindonlink.com • August 2014 35

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Shaw Ridge children show how much they care for others In June youngsters at Shaw Ridge Primary School set off to ‘Walk A Mile In My Shoes’ to raise money for Swindon Carers Centre during National Carers Week.

Before they did their 5 laps around the school field children learnt about how young carers of all ages look after members of their family who need help in lots of different ways - including some of their classmates.

As a result the children raised a fantastic £1,679.50 and many walked two or more miles, some wearing specially decorated sparkly shoes.

Teacher and young carers lead Jill Edwards said: “The children have shown remarkable maturity and understanding about how others of their age have taken on caring responsibility for caring or helping to care for siblings or parents.

“One boy came to me and said he had saved his pocket money to help.”

Young carers development worker Fiona Prinzi attended an assembly at Shaw Ridge School on 16 July to thank the children and present the first schools’ Young Carers Award.

She said: “It is an awesome total you’ve achieved and you’ve shown you

really care for others who need to care.

Your donation will help us organise a lot more activities and trips for young carers when we meet to give them support.”

Shaw Ridge headteacher Sally Cowell said: “We were completely blown away by the total raised.

“As a staff group Fiona Prinzi with young carer Eliza Gourley, headteacher Sally Cowell, young carers lead Jill we’ve learnt a great Edwards and children who made cakes to sell in school during Carers Week deal about the needs of young carers and the way we give so much responsibility for helping swindoncarers.org.uk/for-carers/ young-carers support to the children who take on at home.”

School’s green projects and green fingers

Pupils at Abbey Meads School have been learning about the great outdoors and getting green fingers into the bargain.

On 4 July the school welcomed parents and children together to enjoy Year 5 children investigated where staff from the Oak & Furrows the outdoors and make something to their food comes from, including Wildlife Rescue Centre for a family take home to benefit wildlife in their learning about food miles, how plants learning event for both children and gardens. Activities included making grow and which parts of the plant we their parents. The school regularly willow bird feeders, wildflower seed eat, as well as learning gardening skills. holds fundraising events for the res- bombs and insect hotels.

An education officer from the cue centre and their ECO Club has Pupils have also been involved in RHS visited the school to train staff adopted it as their special charity. a year long project with a gardening and work with the children. More The day was aimed at bringing theme after the school was chosen as classes will work on RHS gardening a Royal Horticultural Society partner. projects next year.

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Swindon garden designer Jill Blackwood is used to producing bespoke layouts, but was surprised when one client recently asked for an ‘off the peg’ garden.

The brief was simply to recreate Jill’s award-winning show garden, called A Bonnie Burn, to replace ‘a mud patch.’

The garden was originally created in 2006 for the Malvern Spring Gardening Show, and was awarded a Royal Horticultural Society Silver Medal.

It was also featured on BBC TV’s Gardener’s World that year.

Jill aimed to create a beautiful space that would protect and nurture wildlife, and the show garden was designed to highlight how an attractive and functional wildlife area can preserve biodiversity, and help to be created anywhere.

She feels we could all do more provide wildlife corridors in our to encourage wildlife, with areas of towns and cities.”

The recreation of the award-winwildflowers, water features, animal shelters, insect homes, birds boxes or ning garden from 8 years ago certainly simply a pile of rotting logs as shelter got the thumbs-up from her client, and hibernation areas for bees and who wrote to Jill to say: “I am very pleased with the total transformation other insects.

Jill said: “We’ve become increas- of what was a mud patch, full of weeds, ingly aware of our impact on the into something of beauty. It is already environment. Creating a mini eco- a place of joy and relaxation, instead system within our gardens will help of the headache it was before.”

See Jill’s advert on the right. to attract and maintain wildlife and

36 swindonlink.com • August 2014

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swindonlink.com • August 2014 37

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18/07/2014 09:36

Bike ride for CALM achieves great total

Girls fly the flag for Swindon hockey

A cycling challenge to raise £200 for Swindon Children’s Cancer And Two young ice hockey players are hoping to make their mark on the Leukaemia Movement CALM smashed expectations by achieving £386 international scene in Finland when they travel with the England junior for the charity. and senior squads to compete in a tournament.

Sophie Emmanuel from Fresh- Pate’s Grammar School in Cheltenbrook and Jasmine Howe from Crick- ham, are hoping to get a lot of ice lade are both 15 years old and play time during the tournament as both for the Swindon Wildcats Academy will have a trial for the Great Britand the Topcats junior team at Link ain under 18 squad in the Autumn Centre and were selected for the Eng- which will be demanding given their lish under 16s girls earlier in the year. young age.

“It’s a really exciting to be travelling Family are funding the opportunity to Finland,” said Sophie. “It’s our first to go to Finland as the sport receives international and we hope to learn a little support. “It’s something we’ve lot from the experience.” got to do,” said dad Matt Emmanuel.

Sophie, who attends Lydiard Park “They’re showing the talent so we have Academy, and Jasmine, who goes to to help them get as far as they can.”

Jasmine and Sophie pictured at Link Centre by Richard Wintle of calyxpix.com Ben and Bradley with CALM members. Photo: Richard Wintle of calyxpix.com

Executive principal of Nova Hreod Ben Parnell and head of maths Bradley Nash took to their bikes on 17 July to link up with sister schools in the United Learning Group.

Both previously had worked at United Learning schools in Bournemouth so were able to attract sponsorship from colleagues and supporters in both towns.

Several members of the CALM committee were on hand to wave the

pair off on their 95 mile journey which they covered in six hours.

CALM chair Richard Crowley said: “It’s brilliant that Ben and Bradley were able to support us; the total was way over what anybody thought would be raised. We’d like to thank them and their sponsors. The money will help make life a little easier for the children receiving treatment and their families.” calmcharity.org

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38 swindonlink.com • August 2014

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Help kick-start a veg-ucational healthy eating game by 30 August Swindon foodie Mike Sharp from Redhouse has developed a new card game called Veggie Trumps to promote children’s understanding of the benefits of eating fruit and vegetables – and is looking to crowd-funding to help get it into schools across the country.

Describing the game Mike said: avocado was. He said: vitamin content.

“It’s based on the Top Trumps con- “The cards help children “Playing cards is a very cept, but instead of facts and figures identify different fruit social activity; Veggie about war planes or Pokemon, we’re and vegetables and why Trumps gets children promoting fruit and veg.” they are good for you. talking, reading and usThe idea for Veggie Trumps came The game is played based ing maths skills.” to Mike when he discovered a friend’s on real nutritional values, and which Mike is using the online crowdyoung son didn’t know what an food trumps the next in things like funding service Kickstarter to raise the cash to develop the product after backing a few Kickstarter projects and has seen how likeminded people can Two young entrepreneurs from Swindon are in a hurry to make their mark pull together to bring a good idea to in the fast moving world of app development and mobile communications. market. He said: “We’re looking to Jeevan Thandi, 18, from Shaw and technology the most.” raise £8,000 initially to enable us to Vito Faircloth, 19, from Highworth Vito added: “We knew we were make Veggie Trumps available for sale teamed up at Cirencester College going in the right direction when with a strong promotional campaign. last year to set up TriCreations after students told us how easy it is to access There is another objective to raise being paired up by a tutor to carry out the information by entering a code on £20,000 so that we can donate decks a project together. their mobiles compared with trying of cards to schools and charities.”

They quickly discovered mutual to log into the college computers.

To succeed Mike needs to raise the interests beyond academic study and They like being able to look up notes money by 30 August. Watch a video have been developing turning projects and revise where the are and at times and give his idea support at: kickinto reality. “Our ideas really started they choose.” starter.com/projects/1896991152/ to spark when we talked about our Their app has been adopted by veggie-trumps future aims,” said Jeevan. “I do most Solihull College and Jeevan and Your pledge will only be taken up if of the design and coding and Vito Vito presented their work to 1,000 the project achieves the target. concentrates on business develop- delegates at an Institute of Education The game can also be played online ment and marketing.” conference in London earlier this year. at veggietrumps.com At present neither have a desire to They also released a revision app for go to university and have work place- psychology students called SafMed ments arranged, now that they’ve before launching an addictive reaction completed A’ Levels, to give them the game called Stop the Dots which is space to develop TriCreation projects. available at the Apple App Store.

Talented techies overflow with ideas

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Vito and Jeevan, pushing the boundaries with TriCreations

Jeevan created a GCSE and A Level revision app called Cs2Az, when he attended Bradon Forest School, aged 15. Their TriCreations apps are covering a wide range of interests.

Their first, called SubFeed, allows teachers to upload documents and lecture notes for students to view on mobile devices and has been adopted by several departments at Cirencester College. “It supersedes older software written for computers and adapted for mobile,” said Jeevan. “Ironically it’s the history department who use the new

“We’re really enjoying learning how to bring apps to market and attracting attention to our work,” said Vito. “It’s all good experience; hopefully a big corporation will soon come knocking on our door to discuss opportunities.” tricreations.co.uk The winners of outdoor theatre tickets at Lydiard Park Much Ado about Nothing: Catherine Boswell from Taw Hill Alice through the Looking Glass: Antony Maddison from Groundwell, and Fee Jacobs by email

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Advert.indd 1

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BATHROOMS AND KITCHENS

BATHROOMS

BATHROOMS

Plumbing

& Heating MJP Home Creations

❉ Quality bathroom suites

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

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

DECORATOR INSIDE AND OUT

FREE ESTIMATES

01793 321981 07775 840236

ELECTRICIAN SAFE & SHAW

ELECTRICAL SERVICES

Please call Paul Eastham on 07769 883717

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Approved Plumber

mjplumbing64@gmail.com

DECORATOR & CARPENTRY

DECORATOR

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

• Laminate flooring

• Doors & skirting

replacement

• Kitchen • Bathroom

internal alterations

Experienced in all aspects of interior and exterior decorating

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

Call Andy: 01793 729354

or 07900 835116

Talk to us about combined advertising

01793 602540

A CHANGE OF COLOUR

PAINTING AND DECORATING ✓ 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

HEATING & PLUMBING

HEATING & PLUMBING

RJ PeaRce Plumbing & Heating ltd

Quality Plumbing & Heating

• Central heating • Bathrooms & showers • Competitive rates

7 YEAR GUARANTEE

on Worcester Bosch Ri Si and Cdi boilers

• All work guaranteed

Kevin Rolfe

203455

PLASTERING BSJ PLASTERING & DECORATING SERVICES

PLUMBING

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

General Domestic Plumbing Leaks, Burst Pipes and Sinks Taps, Showers and Overflows Gutter Installation Repairs and Cleaning

Please contact Brian Jones

Professional, reliable and friendly service www.swindonplasterer.com

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

ROOFING SKYLINE FASCIAS AND ROOFING

All areas of Plastering, Decorating and Refurbishment undertaken

Mobile: 07976 572905 Home: 01793 725834

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

Accredited Installer

For further details call Richard on 01793 879156 or 07747 723606

Discover The Link online @ w

Call 01793 334823 or 07788 572043

• No job too small

FREE QUOTATIONS, NO OBLIGATION

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01793 876600 07748 964433

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

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For free quotation call Paul on

REDUCTIONS FOR OAPs

PR

• High class painting and decorating • 30 years experience • Competitive rates • Interior & exterior • References available • Reliable friendly service, all work undertaken

INTERIOR & EXTERIOR

Free estimates

De cor ato r

DECORATOR

r&

DECORATOR

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

No job too small No call out charge & free quotation Contact Owen Tel: 07708 644500 or: qplumbingswindon@gmail.com

A local family run business that just loves the jobs you simply can’t manage Our services include: • UPVC fascias, soffits & gutters • All aspects of roofing • GRP flat roofing • Flat rubber roofing • Chimney repointing & repairs Please call 01793 232756* or 07748 220426 *please dial area code when calling

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BUILDING SERVICES

BLINDS

Paul Rhind Bathroom suites and kitchens fitted

the place for quality and value

UPVC windows & doors

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

Conservatories, fascias and guttering

Suppliers of all types of blinds, awnings and shutters Full fitting service or cash & carry

Roofing & building maintenance

Open: Mon to Thurs 9.30am - 5.30pm Fri 9.30am - 5pm; Sat 10am - 4pm BSS House, Cheney Manor, Swindon

Painting, decorating, ceramic tiling Telephone/fax: 01793 874807

Tel: 01793 434584

www.charismablinds.co.uk

DECORATOR

DECORATOR

TREVOR WYSE

Wallpaper Specialist Coving • Dado Rails • Tiling

Call 01793 721455 or 07976 885203

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

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

DECORATOR Quality painting and decorating at an affordable price

38 years experience

Professional Painter & Decorator

CARPENTRY

INTERIOR H EXTERIOR WALLPAPERING H COVING H

H

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

40 years experience No VAT Free estimates For professional, reliable and friendly service call

GBD Services 01793 979282 or 07453 966627

CARPENTRY J&R Carpentry Services ❍ Specialist in kitchens.

Supply and fit or fit only ❍ Fitted bedrooms ❍ Replacement doors and staircases ❍ Wooden and laminate floors ❍ Timber decking specialists ❍ Free no obligation quotes

Call Kevin Cook on Tel: 814833 or 07776 142981

DOUBLE GLAZING

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

Call: 01793 854448 or 07976 219671

www.trevorwyse.com

Call Stuart on 01793 727659 or 07809 368051

HOME MAINTENANCE

HOME MAINTENANCE

Are you up for the challenge?

G R SERVICES

Use your skills, try something new, and be a part of an enthusiastic team at Swindon Citizens Advice Bureau.

Now located in larger premises, see page 2, CAB has launched a drive to attract people to help them to improve access to information and advice services.

To achieve this the bureau is looking for volunteers able to offer up to ten hours a week in the following roles: • administrators to help writing letters, compiling and maintaining records and recording outcomes.

• receptionists to welcome clients, manage the waiting room, answer telephone calls, record clients on the CAB database and book appointments • information guides/ gateway assessors to enable and assist clients face to face or on the phone to access the information they need and assess the appropriate level of assistance required taking into consideration client’s ability to take a next step, complexity of the problem and the bureau resources.

You will be given full training as well as hands on experience. For nformation about the commitment involved, and an application pack, mail: trainer2@swindon.cabnet.org.uk or visit the office at Sanford House, Sanford Street, Swindon.

Services

(Household Maintenance) Handyman

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

For a free no obligation quote call Gary on

Mobile: 07764 511933 or Tel: 01793 879069

TILING

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

TILING

GILES BROS

TILING WALL & FLOOR SPECIALIST Please call Leon for a free quote

CERAMIC TILING FLOOR & WALL SPECIALISTS

TEL: 01793 330975 MOB: 07919 255673

Free Quotes Call Lee on 0771 8102 921

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

Call Mike on 0778 8444 084 or 01793 520526

Swindon anglers invited to Fish to Remember The event in aid of Alzheimer's Research UK takes place at Horcott Angling Club, Totterdown Lane, Fairford, Gloucestershire on Friday 1 August, 5pm to Sunday 3 August 12 noon. It is being organised by Paul Davidson, son of Cathy Davidson who, in January, went into a care home after she was diagnosed with Alzheimer's five years ago, aged 58. See page 3.

Prizes will be presented for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place heaviest weight of carp, bream and tench.

Tickets, including barbecue cost £40. To book your place call Paul on 07505 008751 or email Amanda@thegigtoremember.com 43

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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

AERIAL SERVICES

Aerial Solutions • Does your picture freeze and break up?

• Would you like TV points in other rooms?

• Do you want Freesat or Sky installed?

Then contact your local VAT free aerial and satellite installers

01793 744957

50% off digital aerials

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

www.cjd-accountancy.co.uk

CARPET CLEANING Abacus Cleaning Services Carpets, Rugs and Fabric Upholstery

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

01793 421802

www.abacuscleaningswindon.co.uk

COMPUTER SUPPORT

CARPET CLEANING

E l i te

Carpet Cleaning Services Fast, friendly service Average sized room £50 Stairs and landing £35 Sofas £35

Contact Matt on 07734 253189 or 01793 670330

COMPUTER SUPPORT Est 2002 For all your computing needs

• • • • •

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

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

AERIAL SERVICES

Chris Payne

aerials & satellite systems ✭ ✭ ✭ ✭

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

Tel: 01793 700078 Mobile: 07904 330724

CARPET CLEANING The Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Specialist

• 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

LOCKSMITH

Local Locksmith and Carpenter Not a call centre with huge charges!

Genuine 24hr service

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

Call now on 07734 253189

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

KEY CUTTING KEY CUTTING KEY CUTTING

Registered Company CRB Checked/Fully Insured

Tel: 01793 469300

CLEANING Homes That Sparkle From People Who Shine Affordable & reliable cleaning programmes, tailored to meet your needs and budget Regular cleans, Spring cleans, Moving in or out cleans Trained and insured staff Equipment and supplies provided Quality Service Guarantee

COMPUTER SUPPORT

FURNITURE WANTED

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

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

Computer problems?

Let us help

OVEN CLEANING

HELP US TO HELP OTHERS

REMOVALS

WHITE VAN MAN

Ovens, ranges, agas, hobs extractors and microwaves

BROKEN OR FAULTY LOCK? LOCKED OUT?

Same day/next day service

Email: cliff.whiteway@btinternet.com

KEY CUTTING KEY CUTTING KEY CUTTING

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

Guaranteed repairs to all makes of domestic appliances

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

Tel: 01793 325685

GARAGE DOORS

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

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

01793 733822 or email:

oven@enlan.co.uk

SINGLE ITEMS MOVED ANYWHERE IN SWINDON FOR ONLY £35

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

Call for a FREE quote Mobile: 07796 236436

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APPLIANCE REPAIRS

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

BOOK-KEEPING

HALE SKILLS

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

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

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

CLEARANCE

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

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

Previously loved items in demand

One small advert attracts welcome support

NEW GRAB Y LORR

The Gateway Furniture Project in Westlea and its sister shop the Gate in Havelock Square, by the Brunel Centre, are proving more popular and in demand than ever, offering previously loved household items, bridal wear, clothing, books and toys to families in need.

MAN & VAN SERVICE GRABSOLUTE BAG & GRAB HIRE

GARDEN

OFFICE

HOME

BUSINESS

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

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

Helpers getting The Gate ready last November

Showroom:

Maxwell House, Maxwell Street, Swindon SN1 5DR Tel: (01793) 618499 or 513796 swindondoorservices@ btinternet.com

SCRAP METAL

RODDERS SCRAP METAL All metals removed FREE of charge Washing machines, cookers, microwaves etc.

Sorry no fridges or freezers Scrap cars collected FREE of charge

01793 613396 07899 018167 Registered waste carrier

www.garagedoorsupplies.co.uk

TV REPAIRS

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

Call Darryl Pace on 01793 812738

Explaining the project’s success manager Dawn Prosser said: “A lot of our highest quality donations come via the advert that we have in Swindon Link magazine - see left.

“Last year we gave away 2,200 items of furniture to families in need, and diverted 50 tonnes from landfill.

On average we are serving about 50 families each month.”

The Gate has been open since November 2013, and is more than just a charity outlet. Dawn said: “On the first floor people can come and enjoy a free tea or coffee and a piece of cake. There’s also a free toddlers’ area. It’s proving a popular meeting place and there are craft workshops to join in with too.”

Also on offer are free books for people to take away, through a joint venture with Healthy Planet, an organisation which diverts books from landfill. Commenting on the book scheme Dawn said: “People can take away three books at any time. We

have about 2,000 on our shelves to choose from.”

Due to increased demand for the service, the project is in need of donations of white goods, double beds, chests of drawers and wardrobes.

Meanwhile a new bridal section of the Gate shop requires donations of dresses and accessories.

Describing other items in demand Dawn said: “We also need men’s clothing, toys, DVDs and jewellery.”

The Gateway project has recently been granted space at Avebury House in Westlea, which will give more room to display beds and starter packs of pots and pans and other domestic items. Dawn said: “We are very grateful to Healthy Planet for giving us this space, and to John Lewis for their donation of display stands for the starter packs.”

The Gateway project operates a collection service for any large items – call 0771 4091011. Any smaller items can be taken straight to the Gate shop.

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Child safety board seeking new members A key partnership that looks after the safety and welfare of children and young people is looking for volunteer lay members to join its board.

Swindon Local Safeguarding ChilIt has statutory responsibility be expected to challenge receive training and an dren Board (LSCB) is a partnership of for overseeing how agencies work the LSCB on the accesinduction to the work organisations that work with children together to safeguard and promote sibility by the public of the LSCB. and young people in Swindon. the welfare of Swindon’s children and and children and young The post is unpaid and young people. people of its plans and will involve attending They are looking to appoint two procedures and help four board meetings volunteer lay members to the board to make links between the each year, and possibly support stronger public engagement LSCB and community other meetings dependin local child safety issues and help to groups. ing on personal interests Your VHS video, camcorder improve understanding of the LSCB’s No formal qualificaand skills. Expenses will tape or cine film transferred child protection work in the wider tions are required, but lay members be reimbursed. to DVD Disc from £15 community. must live in Swindon. They will need See details at: swindonlscb.org.uk The successful candidates will also to participate fully in the work of the or contact Lesley Boorman, LSCB Tel: 01793 705333 board, ask constructive questions and Business Manager on 01793 466839 give an informed opinion. or: lboorman@swindon.gov.uk ‘Reaching out to welcome all’ They will need to undergo a DisThe closing date for applications is closure & Barring Service check and 8 September.

Services each Sunday at 8am & 10.30am

Full provision for children and young people at every 10.30am service Parking opposite the Church at Lydiard Millicent Parish Hall.

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

Vigil on the eve of war a century ago

A vigil of words, music and reflection on Sunday 3 August, 7pm, the eve of the declaration of the First World War. takes place at St Augustine’s Church, Summers Street.

On 3 August 1914 British Foreign Secretary Sir Edward Grey declared, as the inevitability of war came closer, ‘The lamps are going out all over Europe.’

During the service candles will be extinguished as a portent of the horrors that the world would experience during the following four years, and the aftermath of the conflict.

The vigil is based on liturgy to be used at a national event to be held at Westminster Abbey on 4 August.

For more information, contact Neil Fisher on 01793 693652. staugustines-swindon.co.uk

Armed forces charity at your service

A national charity with a branch in Swindon is spreading the word about its work with members of the armed forces and their families.

For more than 125 housing difficulties, years the Soldiers, SailSSAFA is committed to ors, Airmen and Families being available whenAssociation (SSAFA) has ever and wherever help been providing lifelong is needed. support for anyone currently or previIf you live in the Swindon area and ously serving in the Royal Navy, the think they can help you, contact the Army or the Royal Air Force.

Borough of Swindon Divisional SecWhether your problem is financial, retary on 01672 541268. emotional or if you are experiencing www.ssafa.org.uk

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

Anglican • Baptist • Methodist • United Reformed Church

St. John’s Haydon Wick

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

Sunday 9am 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

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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.

Free book offer

New Get Cycling Publication

Swindon Travel Choices is offering a free copy of Anna Semlyen’s thought provoking book ‘Cutting your car use’ to new subscribers of the Swindon Travel Choices newsletter.

We have recently updated our popular ‘Get Cycling in Swindon’ magazine. This free 32 page publication covers everything you need to know about cycling, from bike maintenance, mountain biking, folding bikes, cycling in older age, electric bikes and cycling with children.

The book is Britain’s only traffic reduction guide and it gives easy to follow ideas, contacts and encouragement. It is pocket sized and readable. You too could save money, be healthy and green.

To receive a copy of the book, simply sign up to the free Swindon Travel Choices e-newsletter from the subscription box on the homepage of our website.

Copies can be found in local libraries and bike shops, or you can have a copy posted to you.

Email your postal address to: info@swindontravelchoices.org.uk

Thamesdown Transport’s summer offers If you want to get out and about with the family over the school summer holidays, don’t forget that Thamesdown Transport will be offering their ‘Family for a Fiver’ tickets. For just £5, two adults and up to three children can enjoy unlimited travel all day.

If you’re just travelling after 7pm, it’s worth knowing that an EveningRiderPLUS ticket can be bought on the bus for just £2.50. It acts like a Dayrider, and is valid to midnight. Perfect for those evening trips to the pub, to see friends or going to the cinema. Full details at www.thamesdownbus.com

Use your bus pass for a discount on the train First Great Western offers a 34% discount on all Standard Off-Peak and Anytime Single and Return rail tickets between Swindon and Stroud, Gloucester, Cheltenham and Worcester Foregate Street to holders of English National Concessionary Bus Passes.

Discounts are available at times when your bus pass is valid between 9.30am and 11pm on Mondays to Fridays and all day at weekends and public holidays. Journeys with discounted tickets must start within these times and travel via the Kemble and Stroud route.

When buying your train tickets please present your bus pass to obtain your discount, and always carry your bus pass when travelling.

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

18/07/2014 16:39

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