East Swindon Link November 2017

NEW: Swindon Life p15

The Service Sector p20 No 2 November 2017

The Puzzle Page p23

Est. overall readership across Swindon: 125,000

East Swindon Edition

SPEEDWAY: Swindon Robins triumph p10

Swindon's future Back the bid for the town's new museum and art gallery page 4

Community: P2-20

Swindon Wide: P21 - 29

Leisure: P30-39

Running for my life

By Group Editor Jamie Hill jamie@swindonlink.com

I thought I'd use this space for something a bit more personal this month.

As I'm writing this I'm still recovering from the hardest physical thing I've ever done and something that I don't think I'll ever do again.

But I'm pleased to say I completed my first ever 26.2 mile slog on Sunday 15 October when I took part in the Birmingham Marathon.

It was definitely absolutely exhausting but I managed to drag myself over the finish line.

I was running in aid of ICP Support, a charity that is very close to my heart as it helps research and support women who suffer from intrahepatic cholestasis during pregnancy.

ICP as it's called causes the liver not to function properly in pregnancy leading to premature births and even stillbirth. Without this charity I don't know if my three children would be alive today.

If you want to sponsor me visit www.justgiving.com/ fundraising/james-hill36 So far I've raised just over £2,000 for the charity if you include Gift Aid.

Director: James Phipps Group Editor: Jamie Hill Deputy Editor: Ben Fitzgerald Associate: Roger Ogle Reporter: Claire Dukes Sales Admin Manager: Sue Roberts Sales: Dave Stewart & Rosy Presley Office Manager: Karen Randall Photography: Richard Wintle & Rachel Davis - www.calyxpix.com

Swindon funds search for life on Mars

By Ben Fitzgerald ben@swindonlink.com

The UK Space Agency, based in Swindon, has awarded more than £3 million to UK academics and scientists to support the exploration of life on Mars and examine the polar regions of the Moon.

A further £230,000 of funding has been awarded to studies into experiments designed to be carried out on board the International Space Station (ISS), which could potentially support future human exploration of space.

The £3 million from the UK Space Agency Aurora Science programme, which is exploiting the data from robotic exploration, including our major investment in ESA’s ExoMars mission, will target questions of past and present life on Mars, investigating the presence of water and the geochemical environment as well as atmospheric trace gases and their sources.

Science Minister, Jo Johnson, said: “Science enables and shapes the UK’s future in space exploration.

This government funding will play a vital role in ensuring UK academics can continue to study the secrets of our solar system, from the polar regions of the Moon to the potential of life on Mars.

“Research and innovation are at the core of our Industrial Strategy, and by investing in these

types of projects, we are reinforcing our position as a world leader in these important and exciting areas.”

The funding has been allocated to 17 academics and individual scientists working at UK research organisations. The scientific objectives of the first mission in the Aurora programme, ExoMars, are to understand Mars’s environment and its atmosphere.

In addition, £230,000 will fund four studies to design ISS-based experiments as part of a national science programme.

British ESA astronaut Tim Peake was involved in many experiments during his sixth-month mission on the ISS from December 2015 to June 2016, including several with contributions from UK scientists.

Libby Jackson, Human Spaceflight and Microgravity Programme Manager at the UK Space Agency, said: “Microgravity science in the UK has grown rapidly since we joined the ISS programme back in 2012.

Any future mission to the ISS represents a really exciting opportunity to build on this and to ensure that the UK science community is properly placed to capitalise on the research opportunities that such a flight would offer.”

The studies undertaken will address how high quality science can be implemented within the constraints of the ISS and provide an accurate cost for the full flight experiment.

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Got a community story or feature? Contact newsdesk at publisher@swindonlink.com or 01793 744677 swindonlink.com n November 2017

3

New images of proposed gallery unveiled as lottery application deadline approaches

An artist's impression of the site of the proposed Swindon Museum and Art Gallery bordering Princes Street. Inset, an interior view

The latest architect’s images have been released to show how the proposed new museum and art gallery could look.

And now the Trust and its team are in the final stages of consultation and engagement before they complete their application for stage one of Heritage Lottery funding for the new building in the town centre.

Trust director Rod Hebden said the plans have evolved thoroughout the summer as a result of feedback he has received.

One of the most striking adjustments is

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swindonlink.com n November 2017

that the position of the building, originally planned for the site of the old multistorey carpark next to the Wyvern, may now change to the opposite side of the carpark, bordering Princes Street.

“People began asking us why we weren’t showing the building off more to traffic and pedestrians passing through on Princes Street. This landmark building needs to be as prominent as possible, showing off the emerging cultural quarter and bringing people and much more investment into our town centre.”

The Trust have also been liaising with

teachers and lecturers about what schools and colleges might need to have configured in the new building to get the most out of the facilities, and have asked employers for their input too.

Meetings with neighbours to the site and a stakeholder workshop are also taking place in the coming weeks, and the competitive bid for Stage One funding will go in to the Heritage Lottery Fund in late November 2017. The HLF are likely to reach a decision on successful bids in Spring 2018. Find out more at www. swindonmuseumandartgallery.org.uk

New £10m health centre opens doors to patients

Swindon’s new NHS Health Centre has been officially opened by Swindon Mayor, Cllr Maureen Penny.

The £10m facility first opened its doors to patients in June 2017 and includes a pharmacy, two GP practices (the Whalebridge Practice and Carfax NHS Medical Centre), the walk-in centre, dental and podiatry, and other NHS services.

It was delivered by NHS Property Services on behalf of NHS England, NHS Swindon CCG, Public Health Swindon and Swindon Borough Council.

Cllr Penny unveiled a commemorative plaque and declared the new Health Centre open at a ceremony attended by project partners.

The centre replaces the Carfax Medical Centre and serves a local population of 22,000 registered and 36,000 unregistered patients.

James Wakeham, Principal Construction Manager for NHS Property Services in the South West, said: “By taking a 20-year lease we are ensuring healthcare commissioners can provide services to meet the changing needs of patients and the NHS for many years.

“It is making a real difference to patient care in Swindon and we’d like to thank our NHS and developer partners for their hard work in creating this excellent facility.”

Paul Vater, Chief Operating Officer for NHS Swindon CCG said: “We are delighted to have this excellent facility in the heart of our town centre, providing high quality services to the local community.

“Even in these challenging financial times, investment in health care services remains a priority to ensure patients can access services as close to home as possible.”

swindonlink.com n November 2017

5

Olive Tree cafe staff spread a smile

By Ben Fitzgerald ben@swindonlink.com

Staff from the Olive Tree cafe spent the day at Halifax Building Society to talk to visitors about mental health and wellbeing.

The event, at the Bridge Street branch in the town centre, was arranged to mark World Mental Health Day. The cafe’s general manager Phillida Richards, said: “It’s important to realise that everyone has a mental health and needs to look after it.

This year the theme of World Mental Health Day is being in the workplace – we are here to reach out to people in the community. It’s interesting to note that people seem a lot more willing to talk about mental health than they ever have been. It’s really encouraging.”

Halifax invited the team at the Olive Tree to speak to customers and hand out cupcakes with positive

Local businesswoman Hilary Coates has been presented with Wagging Tails' Franchisee of the Year award by Paralympic Gold Medalist Helene Raynesford.

This is the third time Hilary has received the award and follows another year of spectacular growth.

Hilary's business grew by over 30% for the second year in succession as her dog boarding service continues to attract the demand of dog owners in the Wiltshire area.

For further information see www.waggingtailsuk.co.uk

Volunteers needed messages on them, having adopted Mental Health UK as their charity this year.

The Olive Tree Charity, a registered cafe, works closely with Swindon’s TWIGS mental health charity, based at the Manor Garden Centre, to

provide support for people overcoming mental health challenges.

To find out more about the work of the Olive Tree Cafe or to book a table see their website at www. theolivetreecafe.org.uk

Lower Stratton is spruced up with hundreds of saplings A group of local people from Stratton St Margaret are set to improve the appearance of the public open space in Lower Stratton by planting 420 trees.

The family friendly event takes place Saturday 25 November, from 10am to 1pm.

The community project, organised by Stratton St Margaret Parish Council, will bring together members of local Girl Guiding units and the Boys Brigade from the local area to help plant new saplings to spruce up the local area.

Local residents in Lower Stratton are also being invited to come along to help with the planting.

Councillor Roger Smith, the Vice Chairman of the Council said: “We have invited a range of organisations to get involved in the Stratton area. Planting

Firm is top dog

trees will improve the amenity of the local area and it will encourage local wildlife.”

The trees, all native broadleaved species such as oak and beech, will grow into a flourishing young wood in as little as 10 years. They have been provided by the Woodland Trust, as part of its tree pack scheme, where trees are supplied for free to groups that want to improve their neighbourhood and the local environment.

Roger Smith added: “Planting trees is a fantastic way of bringing together groups of people – particularly children - who want to improve their local environment and learn more about wildlife.

The UK has just 13% woodland cover compared to a European average of 44% and the trees we do have are under increasing threat from disease and development.“

Citizens Advice Swindon has joined the ‘Adviceline’, the national telephone advice organisation; and they are calling for volunteers to help run the service. The Adviceline aims to help people access information and advice from their local citizens advice.

Volunteers are drawn from people of all ages and backgrounds.

If you are good listener who can spare a few hours each week contact Lucy MacIntosh by email: trainer2@swindon. cabnet.org.uk , or call 01793 402106

Baha'i anniversary

The Baha’is of Swindon have marked the bicentenary of the birth of Baha’u’llah, founder of the faith.

The celebration took place on Saturday night, on October 21, at Christchurch Community Centre.

Members of the Baha’i community gathered with friends, neighbours and colleagues to celebrate the birth of this global figure.

Pear Tree praised

The Pear Tree hotel in Purton has been included in the Good Hotel Guide 2018 for the 25th time. The hotel was also named last year as the most dog-friendly of its kind in the UK. Visit www. peartreepurton.co.uk

swindonlink.com n November 2017

7

Bowling their way to success Time to get in the running

C Team Champion Squad Since forming in 1999, as an amateur group, Wanborough’s Bowl Club has surpassed all their expectations this year.

The Swindon and District Triples League ‘C’ Team are celebrating another year of success, from a promotion to Division 4 last year, with an even higher achievement to Division 5 this year.

Only a 10-0 victory for the ‘C’ Team would give them the Champions title.

Entering the final round of matches as Division leaders, and with Marlborough and Westlecot ‘B’ respectively in second and third places, pole position was up for grabs by any one of the teams.

At the final round the last two opposing skips played their last shots Luckily for the Swindon team, the

opposition's skip cannoned a short bowl which sealed their victory.

From Division Champions to the England Nationals, Deanne Davis also became the first Wanborough Bowls club member to reach the Bowl’s England National Ladies Singles Finals.

Despite playing on her best form, Deanna was beaten by her opponent 15-21.

Regular Club Singles Competition Winner, Robbie Ferguson, then reached the Swindon and District Champion of Champions Final Saturday 16 September. He qualified for the Final, winning by 21-20 shots Based at Hooper's Field Recreation Ground, the ‘C’ Team can now prevail as championshipwinning squad members.

Registration for the Mad March Hare charity run will open on November 1.

Keen runners who want to shed those festive pounds can set their sights on running the 5 or 10k routes at the 2018 event which takes place on March 25.

The friendly event, which starts and finishes at Lydiard Park Academy, raises funds

for Breast Cancer Now and although fancy dress is not essential, it is by no means discouraged.

Breast Cancer Now, the UK’s largest breast cancer research charity is dedicated to funding research into this devastating disease.

For more information and online registration, visit www. madmarchhare.org.uk

Great news for primary schools

Primary schools in Swindon are among the most improved in the country following the publication of provisional Key Stage 2 data.

Last year, 46 per cent of 11 year olds in the borough achieved the required standard in reading, writing and maths compared to the national average of 53 per cent.

The statistics, which were highlighted by Ofsted last year, were attributed to the introduction of a new writing assessment with Swindon schools interpreting government guidance very strictly.

But the hard work of teaching staff in primary schools across the borough has resulted in a marked upturn in results.

The latest provisional figures published by the Department for Education (DfE) show that Swindon schools are now on a par with the national average with 61 per cent of 11 year olds now reaching the required standards in reading, writing and maths. The borough’s 8

swindonlink.com n November 2017

schools have moved up 78 places in the provisional league tables for all authorities in this key measure.

The increase in the figures has been due to the hard work of primary school staff and governors, the sharing of best practice between schools, support from education advisors and governor support staff and the fact that teachers have adjusted to the new system.

Earlier this year, education leaders in Swindon set out their bold vision for improving educational outcomes in the town’s schools through the launch of a new strategy. The Swindon Challenge Board aims to ensure excellence underpins all education provision in Swindon and brings together key stakeholders in education including the Regional Schools’ Commissioner, headteachers, the teaching schools, governors, local businesses and senior council leaders. Ofsted also has observer status to the board.

Rowing for charity The Wiltshire Treehouse charity has received an £880 donation from The Midcounties Co-operative after colleagues brought the gym in-store for a bike and row-athon.

A 25-strong team of supermarket workers from the Old Town, Crossways and Beachcroft Midcounties Co-operative Food stores, cycled and rowed for 12 hours in tag-team style challenge, clocking up a combined total of 237 miles at the Old Town store.

The money raised from the event will help the charity to continue to provide bereavement support to young people up to the age of 25.

Diabetes advice There were 160 diabetesrelated amputations in three years in Swindon, according to newly released figures.

Data for 2013-2016 shows an increase of 44 on the 116 procedures carried out in Swindon between 2010 and 2013. Diabetes UK has produced a new video showing people with diabetes how to check their feet at home, and urging them to do it daily, to identify problems early.

The video can be viewed via the following link: https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=jC9hXPURsQA

Come dine with me Producers of channel 4 show Come Dine With Me are looking for contestants to take part.

Participants should be over 18 and not working or trained as a professional chef.

Filming of the show will take place between the 22 - 26 January 2018.

To apply please email cdwm@shiver.tv with your name, age, contact details and postcode.

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swindonlink.com n November 2017

Thamesdown unveils luxury buses

Thamesdown has unveiled 13 new buses for Swindon residents and visitors.

Swindon’s bus operator has made a significant investment in the British-built ADL Enviro 200 MMC single decker vehicles – and they promise to be a hit among customers travelling with family and friends.

Andrew Wickham, Thamesdown managing director, said: “We are

tremendously proud of these new vehicles – not only are they better for the environment, equipped with low emissions Euro 6 engines, but they’re also the first in the region to offer a special ‘social seating’ layout.

"This inventive horseshoe arrangement means a lounge-type environment for our customers. We’re also providing individual USB points at all 35 passenger seats.

New on-board technology also includes free WiFi and contactless ticket payment facilities.

“We have invested more than £2m in these new buses for our number 5 route – and we’re looking forward to seeing them out and about, transporting those who use our services" For more information about Thamesdown, please visit www.swindonbus.co.uk

Swindon Robins are champions

Swindon Robins put on an incredible display at Speedway Grand Final, 4 October, making them the champions of the Speedway Great Britain (SGB) Premiership.

The final saw the Robins championing over Wolverhampton W47-42, their first win since 2012.

Highlights came from Nick Morris and Jason Doyle harbouring unmatchable speeds on their final laps, who, after a shaky start from Swindon, secured the squad’s victory.

After their win Robins boss, Alun Rossiter, said: “It’s unbelievable. Make no bones about it, everybody wrote us off both at the start of the year, and also tonight when they said we had no chance at Wolves.

“But what a team of riders we’ve had this year. They’ve had that something about them, and that’s why they’re champions.

“It starts from Jason as

captain, but also with Nick who has been absolutely outstanding this year. I had people telling me they didn’t want Nick in the team, but we stood our ground and he’s ridden superbly this year.

“Adam is riding with a broken scaphoid, but what a start he gave us in Heat 1, and he was unfortunate with the crash in his last ride which could have made things a bit easier.

“In Heat 15 I would have been expecting Rory to have been climbing all over Jason and Nick, but he wasn’t and it

took the pressure off a bit – it was just a case of hoping for no engine failures, there was all sorts going through my head!

“I’m so proud of all of them, including Zach (Wajtknecht) who was here again tonight. He was beating heat-leaders before he had that injury in what looked a simple slip-off.

“It’s an emotional night, but I’m doing well, I’m holding it in!

I do have to say a big thankyou to my family, and my wife Julie has been immense. It’s an amazing night for everyone at the club.”

Plans in store for former school site

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The former Even Swindon Primary building in Hughes Street, Rodbourne is set to be transformed into a branch of discount supermarket Aldi.

Even Swindon Primary School moved around the corner to Pasture Close in 2007. The scheme is outlined in the latest

release of planning proposals which will go before Swindon Borough Council’s planning committee on November 14.

Discount supermarket chain has more than 700 British stores and said it remains on course for 1,000 stores by 2022.

Design & Build Workshops The National Self Build and Renovation Centre (NSBRC) hosts the UK's only permanent exhibition for self builds.

On 25 November, from 10am to 5.30pm, the centre will be hosting a free design and build workshop aimed at companies and homeowners looking to construct a property from the ground up.

The aim of these workshops is to offer professional advice, accurate cost summaries and an array of design ideas to suit individual tastes.

Throughout the day there will be project management consultants as well as contractors.

NSBRC base their ethos and work ethic on bespoke design, low risk, cost certainty and low impact on lifestyle - "our aim is

to inspire, educate and provide impartial advice for our visitors as well as offering services and products from a wide range of selected exhibitors to aid you through every step of your project."

NSBRC's workshops also provide advice and demonstrations on how to start, progress and finish property renovations. This will enable insight into managing building projects to work around individual scheduels.

The centre's last event welcomed The Big Green Home Show which gave homeowners and developers the opportunity to view eco technologies, listen to heating and renewables advice and meet designers and architects. To book free tickets visit www.nsbrc.co.uk/designand-build-workshop/

Another outstanding result for Uplands School

By Ben Fitzgerald ben@swindonlink.com

Uplands School is celebrating after being graded as ‘outstanding’ for the second successive time by Ofsted.

The report highlights numerous strengths of the school, including the teachers’ determination to provide the best education and care for their pupils to allow them to flourish and make excellent progress.

Uplands School is for students aged 11-19 years with severe or profound and multiple learning difficulties, and/or Autistic Spectrum Condition (ASC), meaning they often have additional complex needs.

The report says that the school has acted upon the only recommendation made at the previous inspection in July 2014 which was to build stronger links with businesses in the community.

The school showed evidence of this during this year’s inspection when pupils showed off their

All smiles: Staff and pupils at Uplands School are celebrating after again being graded outstanding

knowledge of money by helping out at one of the Uplands charity shops.

Fiona Clark, acting headteacher at Uplands School, said: “We are absolutely delighted and it is a testimony to the fabulous young people, their families and our amazing staff that we have retained our ‘Outstanding’ judgement.

“It’s a huge team effort and

we are immensely proud of the part that everyone plays in this success. Our young people are inspirational and it is a privilege to work with them and help them prepare for adulthood.”

Parents were said to be overwhelmingly positive and appreciative of the school’s provision of quality education and care.

Secondary Director appointed at The White Horse Federation

Pizza Hut revamp

Pizza Hut has unveiled a £337,000 makeover at its Swindon Greenbridge Retail Park Hut, creating 10 new jobs for the area.

A brand new, exciting menu will also be rolled out in the revamped Hut that includes chicken wings, Kentucky style BBQ ribs and new additions to its famous warm cookie dough.

All of Pizza Hut Restaurants’ famous icons still take centre stage, but form part of the new, interactive design.

Restaurant Manager Kerry Harding said: “The new makeover is amazing! All the

design elements really stand out as soon as you walk through the door and I’m confident guests will be really impressed.

“We’ve introduced funky wall displays and have a brilliant new lighting scheme that really comes to life in the evenings.

“On top of that, our brand new menu is packed with tasty dishes."

Hut Team Member Chelsie Richards, added: “We all love the new makeover. The new booths are perfect for large groups and families and the new design creates a really welcoming and fun atmosphere."

The school’s consideration of safeguarding was also praised by inspectors, stating that the school has a strongly embedded culture of safety and security with staff receiving regular training on keeping pupils safe. The report recommends that the next steps for the school should be to ensure that the most able pupils fulfil their academic potential.

The White Horse Federation (TWHF) has appointed Helen Glass as Secondary Director.

Helen joins with 11 years’ experience in leading secondary schools.

From 2006 until 2010, she was the Headteacher at Gloucester’s Central Technology College. In her first 15 months at the school she took it from ‘Notice to Improve’ to being rated as ‘Good’ by Ofsted.

Helen will be working with all secondary TWHF Principals to

continue increasing the success of each school and providing students with a first class education.

She said: “I’m looking forward to working with the range of schools that form The White Horse Federation and using my experience to push them forward.

“I will be working with them to ensure they become the school of choice for their local area, are a central part of the community and are attracting the best teachers to provide the best education.”

TWHF CEO Dr Nick Capstick OBE added: “Helen’s experience will be invaluable to TWHF as her strategic approach to teaching and learning will be of benefit to everyone across THWF.” For more information about The White Horse Federation visit

thewhitehorsefederation.org.uk swindonlink.com n November 2017

13

Eyesore office block set for a new lease of life

Falcon House above could be transformed into a landmark residential development (pictured left) under plans being discussed by Swindon Borough Council

Swindon Borough Council is in talks to breathe new life into a six-storey eyesore that has stood empty and neglected for 12 years.

Falcon House, a former office block, that sits on top of the Debenhams store in Fleming Way has deteriorated since being left vacant.

In partnership with the building’s owners, Standard Life Investments, plans are being discussed to replace the interiors and exteriors – leaving the original concrete framework – to create a 90flat apartment block.

Under the proposals, Standard Life will fund 50 per cent of the development cost in return for the council entering into a 47-year lease – with

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swindonlink.com n November 2017

net rental income being shared equally.

According to the developers, New Falcon House will command a dominant position above the Parade Shopping Centre and Swindon Town Centre and will become a distinctive landmark on Swindon’s townscape.

The residential accommodation extends to approx 45,000 sq ft (4,180 sq m) arranged over six floors of approx 7,500 sq ft (697 sq m) each together with the potential to provide parking for over 150 cars.

New Falcon House will be stripped back to its frame and comprehensively refurbished to provide 90 apartments inside a new façade.

Swindon Life Celebrating town living

Your guide to Swindon's Firework celebrations Friends of Brookfield School Westlea Primary School Fireworks Night Fireworks Display Thursday 2 November Gates open 6pm – fireworks start at 7pm Includes BBQ Advanced tickets available from the school office: Family of 4 - £13, Individual £4 On the gate prices: Family of 4 - £16, Individual £5

St Francis C of E School Fireworks Display

Thursday 2 November Time - Gates open at 5.30pm, the display starts at 6.30pm Where - St Francis C of E School, Aiken Way, Taw Hill, Swindon

Westlea Primary School, Langstone Way, Westlea Friday 3 November in aid of school funds.

Gates open at 5:30pm with fireworks starting at 6:30pm.

There will be a BBQ and refreshments of hot and cold drinks.

Glow Items for sale Advanced tickets from the school cost: Family - £18 (2 adults & 2children) Adult £6 Child £4 3s and under free of charge.

On the gate prices: Family - £20 Adult - £8 Child - £6

The Swindon Lions Fireworks Spectacular & Funfair 2017

Saturday 4 November The Polo Ground, Old Town Gates Open and Funfair - 5:30 pm Firework Display 7:15 pm Free Park and Ride - Use the Nationwide Car Park on Pipers Way. All Net Proceeds Go To Charity

The 1st Purton and Lydiard Scout Group Fireworks Display at Lydiard Park Saturday 4 November - 5.30pm to 9pm. Entry fee: £8 Adult, £4 Child (aged 3-14). No advanced tickets.

Free car parking on site – vehicle access via Hook Street only.

Swindon Spotlight

YOUR GUIDE TO THE MONTH AHEAD In the community l A Full Moon Shamanic Drumming session will be held at midnight on November 4 at West Kennet Long Barrow.

A chance to drum, and honour the Earth and our ancestors.

Booking essential as numbers are limited. Only £5.

Contact Peter Knight 0775 408 2691 stoneseeker@waitrose. com www.stoneseeker.net

Book now...

BUSWELL LIVE ALBUM LAUNCH

Swindonian Shaun Buswell returns to Swindon Arts Centre on Monday 27 November after his recent Orchestra Challenges to release his album Stitched Shoes & An Irish Wristwatch through Secret Chord Records. He will attempt to perform the entire album live for the first time with nearly 20 musicians, playing 144 different parts in 45 minutes. Buswell and his band have featured on MTV, VH1, XFM & BBC, as well as reaching #1 in Amazon’s Hot 100 CD singles chart. Shaun is also known for completing music challenges on the London Underground, Glastonbury Festival, Edinburgh Fringe Festival, and most recently in Paris. 7.30pm Tickets £11 from www.swindontheatres.co.uk

STEPHEN K AMOS

Brexit. Trump. No more Mary Berry on Bake Off. Things are looking bleak, so wouldn’t it be best to just forget all about it?

Comic Stephen K Amos might not be able to provide bread to the masses, but no one else is going to put on a better circus. He's at Swindon Arts Centre at 8pm on Thursday 16 November. Tickets at £20 www.swindontheatres.co.uk

KENTWOOD CHOIR

Start your festivities with a musical extravaganza from the Kentwood Show Choir and their annual Christmas Cracker at The Wyvern Theatre on Sunday 19 November. Great choral singing together with carols and seasonal fun includes the Aldbourne Band. Tickets from www.swindontheatres. co.uk

Venues

Arts Centre, Devizes Road SN1 4BJ. Tel: 01793 524481 www.swindontheatres.co.uk Central Community Centre, Emlyn Square SN1 5BP. Tel: 01793 420649 The Platform, Faringdon Road, Swindon SN1 5BJ Phoenix Theatre, New College Drive, Swindon, SN3 1AH. Tel: 01793 732889 The Rolleston, 73 Commercial Road, Swindon SN1 5NX. Tel: 01793 534238 Shoebox Theatre, Theatre Square, Swindon SN1 1QN. Tel: 07340 758497 St Michael’s Hall Lechlade Road, Highworth, SN6 7HQ. Tel: 01793 763907

MR DARCY LOSES THE PLOT An interupted Jane Austen leaves Darcy's plot thread hanging so he has to stitch together his own. A hilarious romp for all Austen fans which involves wrestling carp. Swindon Arts Centre on Tuesday 28 November.

Tickets at £16.50 from www.swindontheatres. co.uk

Roves Farm, Sevenhampton, Nr Highworth SN6 7QG. Tel: 01793 763939 Shoebox Theatre, Theatre Square, Swindon SN1 1QN. Email: shoebox@wrongshoes.co.uk Swindon Information Centre, Central Library SN1 1QG. Tel: 01793 530328 Swindon Museum and Art Gallery, Bath Road SN1 4BA. Tel: 01793 466556 The Victoria, 88 Victoria Road, SN1 3BD. Tel: 01793 535713 Wyvern Theatre, Theatre Square SN1 1QN. Tel: 01793 524481 - www.swindontheatres.co.uk Confirm date, time & price with venue

l For mothers interested in creative writing, Mum’s the Word Writing Group is held at 7.30pm on the first Tuesday of the month at Lower Shaw Farm in West Swindon. At the next meeting, on 7 November, Swindon mums are invited to join the group to hear from fellow mum and author Donna Coulling. l International storyteller Cat Weatherill will appear at the Central Library at 7pm on Thursday 9 November. She will entertain with stories of her own from around the world and then lead discussion on the art of storytelling. l Oxford Brookes University Swindon Campus Open Day will be held on November 11with presentations at 9.45am and 10.45am.

Book your place online now: www.brookes.ac.uk l Breast cancer care open day November 14 at the Olive Tree Cafe, Manor Garden Centre, 10am - noon l South Marston Primary School Christmas Craft Fayre is being held on Friday 24 November from 6.30 to 8.30pm at the Supermarine Rugby Club in South Marston.

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Let there be

festive lights

TOWN CENTRE

X Factor runner-up Saara Aalto will be headlining the event and Best of Swindon 2017 winner Maisie Long will be showing off her irish dancing skills. Voice Kids semifinalist Lewis Blissett, from Old Town, will also perform before the big switch-on.

Lewis said: "I've come to this event every year so it's crazy to be part of it. I'm really excited to be performing in front of such a huge crowd.

Saara was really good on the X Factor and I'm looking forward to meeting her."

The town centre will be transformed into a Fairytale from midday on Saturday 18th November 2017, with new Christmas lights, a town crier, bubble-blowing elves, flash mobs, living Christmas trees, children’s characters from Skywalkers, and the Scrooge and Scratchet Comedy Carol Duo entertaining visitors all over the town centre. The Snowman from the classic Christmas

BRUNEL CENTRE

animation will be walking in Havelock Square to meet and greet families.

A giant snow globe will be set up in Regent Circus, Regent Street will be turned into a Fairytale Princess Zone, a wand and sword-making workshop will be held at the Central Library, the Wyvern Theatre will be offering fairytale face painting, and arts and crafts activities will be available in the Parade.

The main event kicks off at Wharf Green at 5pm with Disney songs from Saara, who came second in 2016’s X Factor and is the voice of Anna in the Finnish dub of Frozen, and Lewis, plus dancing from Swindon Dance, Julie Scotts Dance Academy and Maisie Long. The evening event will be hosted by Ben and Mel from Heart Radio and a festive fireworks finale will bring the day to a close.

The big day is being organised once again by inSwindon BID Company.

Visit Father Christmas in Swindon Town Centre for free!

Nothing is as memorable as the first visit to Father Christmas; it’s something all of us seem to remember forever. The traditional visit to Santa really does add an extra bit of magic to the festive season.

Thankfully the jolly man himself will be making his regular stop-offs at The Brunel Shopping Centre in Swindon Town Centre again this year, starting Saturday 11 November. For the full timetable of when Santa will be there visit www.thebrunel. co.uk. There’s no charge for a visit and he always gives every child a free

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OLD TOWN Old Town is gearing up for a spectacular show to mark this year’s Christmas lights switchon, featuring plenty of festive entertainment, with the line-up beginning to take shape.

Local musicians and singers, such as Caitlin Bowles, Royal Soul, and Jim Blair, will take to Wood Street’s main stage

STEAM

Christmas at STEAM is Coming!

The sights and sounds of Christmas will fill the STEAM Museum on Saturday 2 and Sunday 3 December as over 50 specially selected artisan market stalls mingle with the many famous GWR locomotives on display.

Christmas at STEAM is one of the top Christmas markets in the region. Here is the place to find unique handmade gifts and crafts – from silver jewellery, photographic prints, glass artworks and home furnishings, to wooden

present. There’s also an opportunity to have photos taken and to purchase photo cards, snow globes and key rings - which make great presents for relatives and friends.

As Christmas gets nearer the grotto gets very popular so to avoid a long wait pre-booking is advised. It’s free and can be done via The Brunel’s website, www.thebrunel.co.uk. The grotto will be located between M&S and Boots on the upper level of The Plaza.

Another important date for the diary is Saturday 18 November; which is when the town centre Christmas lights are switched on. There will be many activities

on Sunday 26 November in the build-up to the area being transformed with an array of dazzling lights.

There will also be segments from local dance and performance groups, and a second entertainment area outside of the Swindon Arts Centre.

toys and games, chutneys and luxury confectionery.

Seasonal atmospherics include special lighting, live choir music on stage plus a Christmas Café. To complete the Christmas magic, Santa will be at the Museum on both days with his Santa’s Storytime sessions (available for an extra charge when you book ahead at reception).

Storytime lasts around 20 minutes and includes a festive story and sing-a-long plus a wrapped gift. More details see STEAM website at www. steam-museum.org.uk

throughout the town centre all day including, from noon, The Brunel Centre’s own comedy fairies, fairy balloon modellers and comic waiters.

The Brunel’s got new Christmas decorations this year which should be worth a look. Many of the new eateries in The Crossing, The Brunel’s new eating area, will be open too, so well worth a visit into town. (It’s only £2 to park for four hours).

And don’t forget to visit the new dessert parlour, Desserts & More. It’s on the first floor of The Crossing, near to House of Fraser. Treat yourself. It is Christmas after all!

Swindon Lives IN CONVERSATION WITH: JANET GARRETT

By Claire Dukes claire@swindonlink.com

It would be quite a surprising revelation to find out that you haven’t heard of Janet Garret, or at least her Puppy Skool.

Janet’s business has been running in Swindon for 12 years now, from a cow shed conversion, turned family home come puppy paradise.

Naturally it is of no surprise that dogs have always been present throughout Janet’s life from a Rough Collie to Great Danes, then Deerhounds to Shih Tzus, and finally her award winning Bouviers des Flandres.

Insider knowledge: Janet's top 5 dog tips

1. Choose your puppy wisely, and make sure you see the mother. Also make sure you visit several times before taking your puppy home 2. Feed your dog the best you can afford 3. Book your puppy into school as soon as you know you're getting one as classes fill up quickly 4. Rome wasn't built in a day! Dog training is a process of building and rewarding - it requires a lot of patience 5. If you have an older dog, instead of dog training classes, contact a behaviorist Despite this canine continuity, her professional life did not always revolve around dog training.

During her earlier career Janet was a bi-lingual PA at Arval for four years.

She spent a lot of her time conversing in French, so dog training in my eyes seemed to be quite a leap in career change.

This does however explain how she came across her beloved Bouvier breed, her first encounter being at a French café. As if reliving the experience, she lights up as she fondly recalls how enthralled she felt when she first met the friendly giant: "I just fell in love with him".

Unfortunately it was during this era in Janet's life that she was struck with the news that her baby grandson Jamie, who would have been 12 this year, passed away.

She graciously explained how the tragedy impacted her outlook on life: "You just start thinking to yourself 'what does it all mean?' and I wanted to know what I was doing with my life. So I went in a new direction."

With support across the board from her family, and love for dogs unquestionable, Janet soon found herself running small groups of puppy classes. Little did she know that 12 years down the line she would see 150 dogs a week come through her door.

Granted, before heading off down her new career path, Janet had already achieved various training cerftificates which settled my speculation as to how dog training was such a plausible and easy exchange.

Her impressive resume includes her Level 4 CTDI (Certified Trick Dog Instructor), Level 3 CertNut (Nutrition). She is also a published author, as well as a member of the Coape Association of Pet Behaviorists and Trainers (CAPBT) and Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT).

However Janet is not the only high achiever at Skool, or home.

For those unfamiliar, Bouviers are a French breed and relatively uncommon in Britain. Janet, however, just so happens to have three of them; Mack, Gus and Riff.

But these aren't any ordinary Bouviers. I refer in particular to Mack, also known as 'the head boy'.

Mack is the first Bouvier in the world to win the Trick Dog Championship (TDCH) title in both the UK and USA. Telling tales of their life on tour, Janet brazenly admits: "I don't know who likes showing off the most, me or Mack!"

It becomes more evident how gratifying this way of life is for Janet, as she explained: "I can't see my life without dogs. It's strange when your work is also

Janet and Mack

your passion - I don't handle time off easily. I go out for the day and I feel like I've had a week off!

"But the best part about my job is when people tell me that my training has changed their life, and bond with their dog."

The latter strikes an emotional chord with Janet, but it becomes all the more apparent just how compassionate and generous she is. Amongst all her achievements, and in tune with her line of work, Janet also devotes much of her time to numerous chairites uncluding Dog Aid, Children in Need, Climb, Dogs Trust and Swindon Needy Dogs.

Never without Mack, speaking of her charitable work she said: "I love doing what I do, and seeing what joy dogs can bring. It's a huge pleasure and so much fun to help donate."

Thinking that nothing could take down this Garrett powerhouse, but I daringly breach the subject, Janet amiably revealed: "When I retire it'll be because of the weather, not the dogs."

There is no doubt in my mind that it would take extremely stormy weather to stop Janet Garett doing what she loves. swindonlink.com n November 2017

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Talking politics South Swindon MP Robert Buckland Swindon is a town that continues to grow and as your MP, one of my key priorities is the development of the local NHS. Alongside North Swindon MP Justin Tomlinson and the late Dr Peter Crouch, Clinical Chair of the CCG I have pushed the Department of Health and NHS England for a fair share of support for Swindon to areas of comparable size and deprivation.

We also successfully campaigned for the budget period to be increased from two years to five years, ensuring that improvement plans could be made for the future, which included the building of the much-needed new Swindon NHS

Health Centre.

I recently attended the official opening of the £10m Health Centre, which serves a local population of 22,000 registered and 36,000 unregistered people in and around Swindon and includes two GP practices dental and podiatry and other NHS services. I was glad to hear about the difference that this excellent facility is having on patient health care. I am pleased that Prime Minister, Theresa May has recently announced as part of her speech at the Conservative Party Conference that a consultation on introducing an optout system for organ donation is to be held in England.

Swindon Borough Council Leader Cllr David Renard Promoting Swindon and making sure we are doing everything we can to ensure it prospers is a key part of my role.

I believe passionately in Swindon and what it has to offer to residents, workers, businesses and visitors and its potential to grow and offer even more in the future.

In recent years I found it a little frustrating to be at various meetings listening to other places shouting about how great they are when I know we are just as good if not better. So I was delighted to see the launch of the Switch on to Swindon (SOTS) campaign at the start of the year.

Switch on to Swindon (SOTS) is led by a board of members from the local business community who oversee the marketing campaign and the ever expanding ambassador network. The aim is to change perceptions to support existing businesses and attract new ones to invest.

The council is right behind this but I felt from the outset that the business community had to take the lead.

And businesses certainly have risen to the challenge with over 500 signing up as ambassadors already. Since its launch in January, the campaign team has been focussed on developing high quality material and building the ambassador network.

The underlying principle of Switch-on-toSwindon is mutual benefit.

So when the campaign produces an amazing film, a beautiful book, an image library they know that will be of value to organisations in some way.

In return the more people using those resources means that Swindon is being presented in the best possible way more consistently.

Go to www.switchontoswindon.com to find out more.

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The consultation will outline ways to increase rates of organ donation and propose a new approach where every person would be deemed to have given consent unless they choose to opt out. Any changes will take place after the views of all sections of our community have been looked at.

Plans to ban the sale of ivory were also set out at the Conference.

The proposals will protect elephants and help combat poaching by removing opportunities for criminals to trade illegally-poached ivory. When I unveiled the superb life-size elephant sculpture at the late Lord Joffe's Lidington home last

North Swindon MP Justin Tomlinson Last month I was delighted to be invited to take part in the Topping Out ceremony for the Great Western Academy; the new secondary school at Tadpole Farm.

The topping out ceremony marks the final beam being installed on the building and I was honoured to be asked to secure it in place. In January I broke ground as the building of the school got underway, and it was very rewarding to see how much progress has been made since then.

As North Swindon MP I have been working tirelessly with The Great Western Academy, both in Swindon and in Parliament, to secure funding and ensure that the project was successful. My community office opened its doors to the Great Western Academy as it held a drop-in event for prospective parents and pupils. Principal Graham Davis was on hand to answer their questions.

I have worked very hard to do as much as I can to secure its success. It was wonderful to see the prospective parents and pupils so eager to find out more, and I share their excitement for the school opening next September.

One issue which I have campaigned for passionately is animal welfare, and I am pleased it appears the government has listened and set out legislation to improve welfare standards and protect endangered wildlife.

The RSPCA heralded ‘a fortnight of incredible news’ for animal welfare in the UK, as plans to introduce tougher sentences for animal cruelty and a ban on the sale of ivory in the UK were announced.

The maximum sentence for animal cruelty is to increase to 5 years, a significant improvement from the previous 6 month maximum sentence.

The sale of ivory is also to be banned in the UK, which is hoped to have a significant impact on the ivory trade that kills 20,000 elephants a year. The plans put the UK at the forefront of global efforts to address the drastically declining elephant population.

year, we were highlighting the decline in the elephant population fuelled by poaching for ivory.

New legislation that will increase the maximum sentence given to those who abuse animals from six months to five years will also be brought forward. This sends a clear signal to any potential offenders that animal cruelty will not be tolerated.

A welcome announcement was made on student finance, freezing tuition fees and increasing the amount that you can earn before paying back a loan to £25,000 and then linking this to yearly rises in incomes.The Conservative Government is getting on with delivering a country that works for everyone.

Cllr Jim Grant, Swindon Labour Group Leader I can start this article with excellent news. The planning application for four large homes within the Lydiard Park boundaries has been rejected by the council. This application was objected to by lots of residents and I congratulate Labour’s Lydiard & Freshbrook Councillor, Matthew Courtliff, for speaking out against this application in the Council Chamber.

Labour are proud to have saved Lydiard Park from being transferred to the private sector and the battle for Lydiard’s future continues. An application to build 48 homes within sight of the park by Taylor Wimpey was withdrawn earlier this year.

Opposition to this application has come for two reasons. Firstly because the application is within the essential Lydiard area and the fact these homes would be in the Wiltshire local authority area -people living in these homes would be using Swindon’s services but paying Council Tax to Conservative-run Wiltshire.

The issue of people living on the Swindon borders, paying Council Tax to Wiltshire while using Swindon’s services, is one of fairness. Two recently built estates essentially in West Swindon but in the Wiltshire local authority area- the Mustang Way and Ridgeway Farm estates off of Purton Roaduse Swindon’s services but pay Council Tax to Conservative-run Wiltshire. More land just outside the West Swindon borders will be applied for housing development and as the government forces Swindon to expand, this issue will only increase.

That is why Labour will be campaigning for action to be taken. We pledge, if we win next May’s Local Elections, to make residents living on Swindon’s borders, using Swindon’s services, pay Council Tax to Swindon. This issue of fairness has been ignored by all parties for too long and it is Labour who will tackle this.

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