February 2013 Swindon Link

In Your Town Centre in the centre pages • Half term fun at the Wyvern • Helping you make Valentine’s Day special • We want your views on what we could be doing

SWINDON

Three festivals coming up: • Swindon Film Festival in March - page 22 • Swindon Performing Arts in Festival in April - page 22 • Swindon Festival of Literature in May - page 20

No. 369 February 2013 • Circulation 28,000

the positive newsforce • swindonlink.com First edition now available Read all about it on page 19

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18/01/2013 15:12

Living (working and studying) in America

Lucy Westcott from Westlea, who studied at The Ridgeway School and New College, before graduating in American Studies at Sussex University, is currently studying at the University of Maryland, just outside Washington DC. Here she reflects on life as a Brit reporting the US

You wouldn’t think that getting a glass of have told me that I could send a tirade of verbal water would be difficult in America, but more abuse their way and they’d simply think it was often than not, many people misunderstand cute. my words.

I’ve found that many Americans know The worst offender - by far - is ‘water.’ Although Swindon. At first, I offered ‘near Oxford’ as the I am a Swindon native, my west country tinge response when asked where I came from. Thanks disappears when overseas, and I have to repeat the to the British (and arguably better) version of The word over and over before adopting my American Office, some Americans have at least heard of our twang: WAH-DER? Finally, they understand. town, even if they don’t have the cultural context A ‘tall’ in Starbucks still translates to ‘two’ in to understand what it means to compete against American, and I have given up trying to order Slough. American video gamers have also come anything strawberry flavoured. to know Swindon through FIFA, virtually pitting Since May 2012, I have been living, interning, the Robins unsuccessfully against premiership and studying in Washington DC. I attended and international teams.

Lucy in front of the Capitol building in Washington DC Georgetown University for a summer proI intern with several newspapers, and got to gramme, and have just started my second term at the University of Maryland, cover election day for the Arlington Mercury in Virginia, just over the Powhere I’m studying for a Master’s of Journalism. Maryland, now on the tomac River from Washington. Standing behind the designated 40 foot line, outskirts of the city, is a former agricultural college, so there is a working I spoke to the campaign volunteers who had been at the polls since dawn, and farm and dairy on campus. who would stay there until after dark. I also spoke to voters, many of whom As you can imagine, it’s quite different from Swindon. In many ways, didn’t want to give their names or say who they voted for, but were happy to Washington is a small town. Nearly everything revolves around the govern- speak about why they voted. ment and politics, so it’s important to be clued up. Even pub quizzes have Although our countries are similar in many ways, our politics are not. An rounds dedicated to little-known members of congress, or statistics about election would not hinge on women’s rights and social issues like gay marelections. At least I always get the British questions right. riage in the UK like it did here.

Every day is amusing when you have a British accent in America. I say Between the enormous food portions and daily questions about Downtown British, because that’s what the Americans say; they tend not to differenti- Abbey, I am having the time of my life in America. And it’s not often that ate between nuances of English accents, preferring to go with the B-word. being from England makes you feel like you have special powers.

Usually, they ask me to say British swear words they’ve learnt from watching • Lucy marks the fortieth anniversary of Swindon Viewpoint, one of Britain’s The Inbetweeners or This Is England. On more than one occasion, Americans first community TV stations on page 27

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18/01/2013 10:51

Who are the Swindon people deserving recognition?

CYCLE REPAIRS

Closing date for Mayor’s Pride of Swindon Award is 1 February The Mayor of Swindon Michael Bray, right, is looking for ordinary people who do extraordinary things for their town so that they can be recognised at the Pride of Swindon Awards in April.

You might know a child or an adult who has displayed remarkable courage, or somebody who has improved your area, an inspiring teacher, a neighbour who is always there - or a team of people who have pulled together for community benefit.

The awards recognise the contribution of such people to their town, people who are unsung and are just getting on with things for the common good.

Nominees must live or work within Swindon borough; all you have to do is submit up to 250 words explaining why the individual or the team should be considered.

of Swindon’s growth and success, Isambard Kingdom Brunel. The names of the best-of-the-best will be engraved on a plaque mounted in the Central Library.

Entries should be sent by Friday 1 February to Pride of Swindon Awards, Civic Offices, Euclid Street, Swindon SN1 2JH or mail: prideofswindonawards@swindon.gov.uk Don’t forget to include the name, address and contact details of the person nominated as well as your own.

Those chosen will be invited to a ceremony where they will be presented with a certificate recognising their contribution.

A select group of about 15 people will receive the ultimate accolade of a small enamel lapel badge depicting the 19th Century inspiration

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Making The Link a better read Occasionally a publication needs a bit of a makeover to freshen up its look and feel; in our case, it’s a very rare occurrence in the 26 years since the magazine became a monthly. But with a few changes we hope The Link is more readable and as good a read as it ever was.

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Orchid Care Home Opening March 2013

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17/01/2013 09:36

Bring Street View into your business Most people now know of Google Street View, the fascinating digital navigational tool that has extended traditional two dimensional maps into 3D location photography.

Now the system has been developed into Google Business Photos which brings Street View technology to create 360 degree panoramas inside your business premises to give people an online virtual tour.

The images give customers a better sense of the layout, decor and ambiance

A panorama still image inside Swindon Cycle Superstore. See their advert on page 30

of your business, making you more easily accessible via Google search, Google Maps and Google+ Local. It’s a great way to show off retail outlets, restaurants, gyms, salons, offices even. It can also be used by charities to attract more members or users.

All images go through Google blurring and privacy standards to ensure nothing untoward is shown.

In January Google announced that 100,000 businesses worldwide had adopted Business Photos in the first

year since it was launched.

Swindon Link has teamed up with Google Trusted Photographer Matt Kaye to offer our advertisers and readers the chance to show off their business in stunning, clear images.

“This is an amazing opportunity to allow customers to walk-through and explore your business,” said Matt.

“The cost is quite modest and most important, signing up for Google Business Photos will boost your search ranking because the panoramas will

be featured in many Google related search pages like Google+ Local.

Also it’s dead easy to embed the Business Photos link into your web site with links to social networks, blogs, and email.”

Find out more at www.bit.ly/ googlebusinessphotos To discuss how to bring a new dimension to marketing your business (or charity), contact Roger Ogle at Swindon Link: publisher@swindonlink.com or call 01793 608840.

West Swindon solar farm plans now on show on 2 February Swindon Council is holding a consultation exercise on Saturday 2 February to hear views about building a solar energy farm on the third phase of Shaw Forest, the part of the landfill site which was capped and completed last year but is not due to open to the public for at least five years.

The consultation was due to take not able to deliver letters to residents between 16,000 and 32,000 solar would be to plant trees and create a place on Saturday 12 January but was living closest to the site in time. panels, depending on a survey of the safety and maintenance liability for put back by three weeks as staff at Swindon Commercial Services site. This could cover between 22 and the borough.

Swindon Commercial Services were have outlined a project to install 25 acres and generate enough power "But I would like to see some public for 1,500 homes. For safety and to access to Shaw Forest 3 overlooking prevent vandalism, the site would be Swindon lagoons which is not open fenced off from the general public. to the public because of safety reasons.

West Swindon Forum chairman Giving people the chance to view councillor Nick Martin (Shaw) said bird life from hides on the southern CARPETS - VINYLS - LAMINATES he supported the proposal. "It's an eco- edge of the site would be desirable. friendly project which is unobtrusive It would mean we would get the best THE PREMIER SERVICE to the public and close to connections use of the third phase of the land-fill GUARANTEED TO SAVE to the electricity grid at Waterside reclamation."

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

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

Editorial for March by 4 February Published: 23 February Copy for April: 11 March ‘Like’ Swindon Link

ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES Call (01793) 602540 or mail: advertising@swindonlink.com Closing date for March advertisements: 4 February

/swindonlink

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

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

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

Articles and photographs require similar authority.

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

swindonlink.com • February 2013

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18/01/2013 15:14

Priory Vale community website under new management Priory Vale resident, Swindon borough councillor and proprietor of Emnico Technologies Emma Faramazi has taken over the editorship and management of North Swindon’s community website www.prioryvale.net from Sam Allen of Elevation Studios.

Sam appealed in the Desee it fall by the wayside. cember Link for somebody We have the technical or a group to take on the site capability to run and host as his commercial workload it at Emnico at no cost. All had become too great. that’s needed is my time He had managed the site to keep the site updated.” since it was set up as a marPrioryvale.net has been keting tool for the building migrated onto Emnico’s companies creating Priory hosting platform, elimiVale by the North Swindon nating previous hostDevelopment Company in ing costs, a move which early 2000. Sam continued Emma believes will proto maintain it as house buildvide new opportunities ing wound down, after the for community groups.

NSDC agreed the site could Handover: Emma Faramazi and Sam Allen She said: “We can now become a community resource. over the reins, Emma said: “I’ve always utilise advertisers’ payments to set up Explaining why she was keen to take watched the site and I didn’t want to small grants for community groups.”

As Priory Vale ward councillor on Swindon Council and chair of the North primary school survey open to 22 February North Locality, Emma naturally gets A consultation on the provision of 60 more primary school places to cope to hear about local events. However with demand in Haydon End, Oakhurst, Redhouse and Taw Hill will she is keen to ensure the site represents close on 22 February. interests across the whole community.

These places need to be available by September 2014 and Swindon Council is She said:“There are no plans to make seeking views on whether to expand Orchid Vale Primary and build a single form the website political. As a commuentry at Moulden Hill Country Park, or build a two form entry at this location. nity resource it’s important to keep Give your opinion at www.surveymonkey.com/s/R2DS6BL it neutral.”

Get involved at www.prioryvale.

Retirement flats set for North Swindon net Developer McCarthy & Stone, who specialises in building housing units for older people, will be submitting a planning application to Swindon Council for 24 retirement flats in Ash Brake, next to the Blunsdon Arms.

The site already has outline permission for a 40 bed hotel, granted when the pub was approved. After plans were shown to people living in the Pennine Way area of North Swindon, the developer is proposing 14 car parking places, two more than required by the council’s planning policy.

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Looking for 100 youngsters with a passion to work with top professionals On 24 February performing arts school Stagecoach Swindon is offering 100 children and young people the opportunity to work with top professionals from the music and film industry in a one day workshop of singing, dancing and acting at St Joseph’s School, culminating in a performance for parents on the day.

The day is open to non-Stagecoach pupils and will be coordinated by Tim Noble of Purestar Productions, right.

Tim is dance choreographer to Kylie Minogue and he will be working with vocal coach Daniel Thomas who has sung backing vocals for Elton John and has coached Girls Aloud, and years old. Expressing her excitement Leonie Kibbey, a casting director on about the workshop, principal Sheryll the Harry Potter films.

Datta said: “Tim Noble is working They are sure to give children with internationally with Stagecoach and a passion for performing the chance it will be great to welcome him to to join in and have fun creating Swindon. No previous experience is something new. required for the day. All the children Stagecoach Swindon offers Satur- need is enthusiasm.” day classes in singing, dancing and www.stagecoach.co.uk/Swindon www.purestarproductions.com drama to children as young as four

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24 February, 10am to 5pm Cost £40. To book, contact Stagecoach Swindon on 01793 791746 or mail: Swindon@stagecoach.co.uk

www.stagecoach.co.uk/swindon swindonlink.com • February 2013

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18/01/2013 15:15

Judicial review of Ridgeway Farm decision not on A barrister has examined Planning Inspector Katie Peerless’s judgement that Taylor Wimpey’s application to build 700 houses at Ridgeway Farm should be permitted and has advised that Wiltshire Council does not have a realistic prospect of winning a High Court challenge to communities secretary Eric Pickles’ decision to approve the development.

The land next to Peatmoor and that Wiltshire Council had one hand judicial review of the Ridgeway Farm increases on West Swindon’s residenSparcells will in effect become part tied behind their back when the In- decision. Proposals that will mitigate tial roads.” of Swindon, but within the Wiltshire spector recommended to the minister the impact of the development in the The association is also calling on administrative area. The impact on that the 2006 housing figures were best possible manner for the local Taylor Wimpey to include provision the town’s road network is predicted used. I think that’s a poor decision, community are needed. for a small shop within the Ridgeway to be huge, given that there will also but legally requirements of the recent “The SRA would like to see Swin- Farm development should demand be new housing in North Swindon at Localism Act cannot be applied don Council review Swinley Drive warrant it, and to reconsider the Tadpole Farm (1,700) and off Akers retrospectively which has restricted and impose the most appropriate layout of the spine road so that it is Way (up to 500). grounds for a judicial review.” traffic management techniques to re-routed around the north and east Coun Dale Heenan, Swindon “Wiltshire Council is the local minimise the expected traffic volume of the site.”

Council cabinet member for strategic planning authority who received planning and sustainability, said: “The this application, yet it is the people Ridgeway Farm planning application of Swindon and the borough council was submitted in 2010 before many who will suffer from this decision.” changes to the planning system like Dale added that he met South Shaw councillor Keith Williams is looking at how to prevent residential roads the Localism Act were brought in by Swindon MP Robert Buckland in across West Swindon becoming totally clogged up as a result of Ridgeway this Government.

December to press him to lobby Farm, and he wants to hear people’s views.

“The Ridgeway Farm judgement the Chancellor George Osborne to is largely based on whether future support capital investment in the housing figures set out in the 2006 extension of Thamesdown Drive to Regional Spatial Strategy (RSS) - as Great Western Way to relieve the required by the last government, pressure on the road network to the applied. Wiltshire Council and west of the town.

Swindon Council argued that the Shaw Residents’ Association chair revised, lower predictions for new Kevin Fisher, who put residents’ obhousing given in the new local plans jections at the planning enquiry, said: being drawn up were more relevant. “The SRA is disappointed that Wilt“It is clear from the appeal decision shire Council chose not to pursue a

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He and Swindon Council traffic engineers will be discussing options at Peatmoor Social Hall, Swinley Drive on Saturday 16 February, 11am to 1pm.

“It is obvious that extending Mead Way to Ridgeway Farm is going to improve access from north Wiltshire to and from the M4, and also places like Link Centre, the shopping centre and roads into town,” said Keith.

“Because of congestion on Mead Way, a lot of drivers already use routes through Shaw to by-pass the hold ups.”

Shaw Residents’ Association chairman Kevin Fisher, who researched traffic use of Swinley Drive before speaking at the Ridgeway Farm planning enquiry, said: “Given current Mead Way congestion and using the developer’s traffic numbers, there could be 1,000 vehicles an hour using Swinley Drive - a four fold increase on the present 250 vehicles. That would be very close to the road’s capacity and intolerable for residents.”

Traffic engineers say the cost effective solution would be a CCTV monitored, full or part time, bus gate at the north end of Swinley Drive.

He said: “I realise traffic restrictions might not suit everybody living at the top of Swinley Drive - some in Wiltshire, some in Swindon. Some might have longer journeys, but we need to look at ways to reduce the impact across the whole of West Swindon.”

Keith added: “We’re not rushing into anything until we know the timescale the developers come forward with, but everybody needs to be part of the discussion on how to mitigate the impact of the decision to allow Ridgeway Farm to go ahead.”

swindonlink.com • February 2013

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18/01/2013 10:54

The Ridgeway Farm decision and the wider implications for localism, democracy, global pressures and future planning policy Dr Richard Pagett of environmental campaign group Purton Ps &Qs reflects on the Secretary of State’s decision

When a major planning application is being considered the basic requirements are that it should be needed, it should conform to agreed policies, it should be in a sensible place, and that it should be achievable.

Looking at Ridgeway Farm, the two planning authorities (Swindon and Wiltshire) did not want it, the relevant Swindon and North Wiltshire MPs did not want it, the local councillors in Swindon and in the affected parishes did not want it

Shaw Residents’ Association Next meeting Monday 4 February, 8.30pm in Ramleaze Community Hall, next to the medical centre.

New members are welcome to attend to discuss community issues such as planning applications, and council policies.

Members also organise practical projects to improve the area, such as litter picks and planting new trees in the village centre. www.shawresidents.org.uk

and the people did not want it (several hundred objected).

There was no need.

Yet the planning inspector went against all this, including against two inspectors looking at nearby planning applications.

Swindon and Wiltshire both have housing strategies that were being developed (their Core Strategies/Local Plans) where they have identified sites and allocated housing in other places.

To find a planning document that supports Ridgeway Farm one has to dig into history to a regional plan, the much derided Regional Spatial Strategy (RSS) created in 2006.

Yet the RSS was revoked by the Coalition Government because it is no longer relevant to today’s requirements in terms of likely demographic and economic needs.

The Ridgeway Farm location is not great. It has poor transport links and educational facilities and it

will create significant negative impact on adjacent locations.

Both Wiltshire and Swindon councils knew this, yet the planning inspector simply ignored the obvious. She said it was necessary to provide jobs, yet these jobs are short-term and do not build the local economy.

Finally, the inspector in her decision noted that because the developers said they could deliver the houses, then their requirements had greater weight. Yet thousands of homes already permitted lie unbuilt.

There are several long term problems arising from this decision The government’s policy of localism is dead in the water - local people have no voice, local councillors have no voice and MPs have no voice when faced with ideology.

Sensible planning can be cast aside when it does not suit. Relying on a years-old plan is plain daft and has

no credibility.

There is no democracy in all this.

Ridgeway Farm illustrates how semiautocratic decision-making erodes trust, which is a fundamental building block of democracy.

When the local plan and core strategy of Swindon and of Wiltshire respectively are finally accepted by central government, it will be too late. The houses will have been built in the wrong place.

This is not planning, it is the power of ideology riding roughshod over the people and their representatives.

As to the future, the great issues of the day: climate change, water chaos, relying on the rest of the world to feed us (40 per cent of our food comes from abroad), energy fragility, unsustainable population and the largest problem of all, our governance, the decision of Ridgeway Farm is blithely ignorant of all this.

We, the people, deserve better.

Ideological and poor calibre decisionmaking has no place in the Britain of 2013, and certainly not in Wiltshire.

Yet we live with the consequences.

swindonlink.com • February 2013

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Residents ready for Lydiard Fields fight and want others to join them The Lydiard Fields Action Group was set up to represent the interests of the many residents, both from Grange Park and beyond, who want to prevent the building of houses in the area around Lydiard Park, writes Tim Swinyard.

In protecting the area around the no-go development zone. ed unanimously at the West Swindon park, we want to ensure that the Over 150 people have objected to Forum meeting on 11 January. rural nature of this important part of this application and many more have The Lydiard Fields Action Group Swindon’s past and present is main- made clear their feelings about the needs support to spread the word. tained. Yet it is under threat again in inappropriate application to build Help us by mailing : contactus@ a planning application for 73 houses. adjacent to such an iconic piece of lydiardfields.org.uk www.lydiardfields.org.uk This is not just of interest to the Swindon’s heritage. This was supportresidents of Grange Park or visitors to Lydiard Park, but also people in Tadpole Lane due to reopen on 2 February Westlea who in 2004 and 2007 suffered flooding as a result of rainwater There will be respite from heavy traffic on Purton Road and Thamesdown running off fields subject to the new Drive when Tadpole Lane reopens for through traffic, though Oakhurst Way planning application. We believe is likely to see more vehicles as drivers take more direct routes. building here will reduce drainage The road has been closed since May last year for the rebuilding of road bridge capacity and significantly increase over the River Ray and major works on the listed Victorian railway bridge at the danger of flooding. the Swindon & Crickade Railway Society’s Blunsdon Station.

So far we have lobbied our MP Reopening is subject to the weather warming up to allow the final road and our local councillors, distributed surface to be laid. thousands of leaflets in the area, and Railway volunteers needed canvassed the local community. We The society had a tough time in 2012 because of reduced vehicle access, and have also spoken out in the media on are appealing for volunteers to help them bounce back in what will be their behalf of local residents. thirtieth year since launching their conservation activities. Find out more at Last year we supported the coun- www.ow.ly/gVl8N cil at a planning inspection which resulted in the first application being rejected. We are looking to the council once again to throw this new application out and to show the Blunsdon residents are reeling after Swindon Council published on 20 developers that Lydiard Fields is a December a proposal for 1,650 houses to be built on agricultural land between B4019 ‘Broadbush’ south of Blunsdon village and Kingsdown Lane.

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Concerned residents have until 21 February to comment on the council’s pre-submission draft of the Swindon Borough Local Plan 2026.

Referred to in the document as Kingsdown the council proposes up to 1,000 square metres of retail space, a two form entry primary school and children’s centre, as well as sport, leisure and community facilities. Three points of vehicle access, including a brand new road bridge across the A419 towards Swindon, are highlighted.

The Local Plan consultation offers the public a final opportunity to comment on its ‘soundness’ and legal compliance before it is submitted for examination by a Planning Inspector.

Broadbush resident Matt Horan heard of the plan from a Kingsdown resident just before new year. Commenting on the position of Blunsdon Parish Council which met on 7 January, he said: “The councillors declared that they hadn’t known anything about the proposals before the document was published in December.

“Giving people nine weeks to review a document that has scant detail and potentially conflicting information is inadequate for a properly considered response. These

proposals will have a major impact on Blunsdon, bearing in mind that the development is three times the size of the existing village.”

The council form inviting comments states that the document is in its final draft, and has been through a number of consultations, resulting in less scope to make changes.

Expressing his bewilderment about who had therefore taken part in the consultations so far, Blunsdon resident Michael Edwards said: “We are now being asked to comment in a timely fashion on something we didn’t know we had the opportunity to comment on because the borough council haven’t told us about it before.”

Explaining she had recently bought a property at Broadbush, resident Karen Montague said: “We bought our house from a parish councillor who verbally assured us that nothing would be built behind our property for a minimum of 15 years, and none of the searches we had done suggested anything about development there.”

Residents are campaigning to raise awareness of the proposals. Find out more and contribute comments on Facebook - Blunsdon Action Group.

See Swindon Council’s Local Plan at www.swindon.gov.uk/localplan

swindonlink.com • February 2013

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17/01/2013 10:04

Business Wealth Club opens in Swindon

More groups needed to step forward for Asda token fundraising

Shoppers at Asda Walmart in North Swindon have voted for Swindon Stroke Club to receive £200 from the Community Life Fund which operates in all stores, and there are opportunities for more groups to benefit.

A branch of the world’s most Shoppers are able to choose from powerful business training, one of three community causes by coaching and support network depositing tokens in a plastic conhas opened for membership at the DeVere Village Hotel, Shaw tainer by the store entrance. Every Ridge. two months the one with the most receives £200 and the two runners up get £50 each.

Members of the Stroke Club were over the moon to be invited before Christmas to receive a cheque which has been put towards transport for people without a way for getting to weekly meetings at the Methodist Church Hall, Ermin Street in StratIt’s hosted by the club’s latest ton St Margaret. The group, which fully trained business mentor and has been running for 32 years, has coach Ant Hodges, above. The seventy members with around forty Innovative format of the Business regularly attending meetings.

Wealth Club is for business owners Treasurer Lin Hancock said the Pleased to receive the Asda cash, from left, Angie Jarmey, Barbara Rawle, Lin and entrepreneurs keen to learn group is grateful to Asda shoppers for Hancock, Ivor Hancock, community life champion Yvonne Bidwell and manager how to boost their sales profits and supporting them. “It costs a lot each Martin Webb achieve greater success in today’s year to pay for members’ transport. in on myself. You wouldn’t believe who would like to raise money via the challenging economy.

We have terrific volunteers working the change I’ve been through since I token voting scheme. Contact her on There are free workshops on offer on 15 February: Supercharge with members and it’s wonderful to started attending meetings. The help- 0791 717679 for details or pick up a see the smiles amongst members after ers, organisers and other members pro- leaflet at the Community Life display your social media, and 15 March: an event or an outing.” vide super support. It’s a lovely group.” at the entrance to the store.

Rev up your profits.

Angie Jarmey said she joined the Asda Walmart community life Application forms are also available Find out more and register at club two years ago. “I was miserable champion Yvonne Bidwell said she at the stand close to the entrance to www.thebusinesswealthclub. with my disability and was turning would like to hear from more groups Asda at West Swindon Centre. co.uk/swindon

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Q: Can you explain the ‘24 month rule’?

This rule is principally site based and applies to Travel and Subsistence for all employees, including Directors.

If you work, or even know that you will work at a site for over 40% of your working time for longer than 24 months - you are caught by the 24 month rule. You must then immediately stop claiming for travel and subsistence expenses.

The 24 months can only re-start if: you take a long break from the site, you move to another site, or you have a new employer. (see HMRC online booklet 490) Example: Jim has a Limited Company and works in Andover 2 days per week and claims tax relief on his travel. Because his 18 month contract has just been extended by 9 months, he must stop claiming for these expenses immediately. This is because he knows he will work at this site over 40% of his work time for more than 24 months! (An extension of 6 months would have allowed Jim to continue to claim travel expenses)

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swindonlink.com • February 2013

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Family centre in the West offers welfare advice to cope in these tough times It’s a huge challenge: balancing family life and finances can seem overwhelming, and changes to the benefit system are confusing and frightening, but help is available at West Swindon Family Centre, 15 Gainsborough Way, Freshbrook.

Many people claim some form of benefit, about 53 per cent of the population. Benefit payments account for 30 per cent of Government expenditure; 60 per cent in pensions, 40 per cent in welfare. Nearly 6 million people in work are affected by the recent vote in Parliament to limit the uprating of benefits to 1 per cent. Most people will be either directly affected by welfare reform or are related to someone who is.

So what is going to happen to you asks welfare advice specialists Christian Sweeney, below, and Richard Stacey, bottom. They explain some of the detail of the profound changes in the welfare system during 2013.

Child Benefit has been stealing the headlines. Where one member of a couple with children earns more than £50,000 the Child Benefit starts to reduce.

If they earned more than £60,000 in the last tax year they will repay the Child Benefit via their tax bill.

Government has predicated the calculation of earnings on one partner’s pay cheque rather than the total household income. As a consequence we have a reform that allows a couple to earn £98,000 per year each yet retain the benefit. However a couple where one person earns in excess £50,000 are not so lucky.

The benefit cap starts in London in April and will be rolled out across the country from the summer. Total income from benefits will be capped at £500 per week for a couple or lone parent, and £350 for single adult households.

Housing Benefit will be reduced by the difference. This simple pay cut will be a near catastrophic threat to the family

If the changes in welfare system affect you, advice is available Richard Stacey and Christian Sweeney offer free welfare advice to families with children aged 0 to19 years who live in West Swindon.

Appointments can be booked from 9am to 4pm on weekdays and Richard or Christian are available to discuss welfare issues on a drop-in basis every Wednesday from 9.15am to 10.15am and 2.15pm to 2.45pm.

To book an appointment call 01793 871303 or mail: advice@ westswindoncc.org

home. Housing charity Shelter reported on 4 January that 1.4 million Britons are falling behind with rent or mortgage payments, with over 1 million people using payday loans to pay these costs. They also report that 2.8 million people use an unauthorised overdraft to pay their rent or mortgage, with 10 per cent doing so each month.

Aligned with this reform is the empty bedroom tax, which comes into force in April 2013. This is targeted solely at tenants of social landlords.

If you are considered to under occupy your home, your Housing Benefit will be reduced. If you are considered to have one bedroom too many, the reduction is 14 per cent; with two or more bedrooms, the reduction is 25 per cent.

From April, Disability Living Allowance (DLA) for adults under retirement age will be phased out.

Personal Independence Payment (PIP)will take its place, introduced first in Bootle and rolled out nationally over the summer.

Existing claimants of DLA will be selected for PIP assessment from October 2013.

Universal Credit is the great vision for simplifying the benefits system - to replace income based JobSeekers Allowance, Income Support, income based Employment Support Allowance, Housing Benefit, Child Tax Credit and Working Tax Credit.

It is to begin in the North West in April. In October all new claims for out-of-work support will be under Universal Credit.

The transfer will then begin for existing claimants, to be completed

by April 2014. At this time no new Tax Credit claims will be accepted and the transfer process is likely to continue until 2017.

Council Tax Benefit is being abolished altogether, to be replaced by a local authority run benefit. Swindon

Council currently pays £13 million in Council Tax Benefit, which is later reimbursed in full by the Government.

However, the amount available from the borough’s fund in the next financial year will be approximately £11 million, leaving a shortfall of £2 million. It is envisaged that everyone

will have to pay something towards the council tax bill.

If you would like free help and advice about benefits, debt, employment, housing, tax credits, DLA or family law or have any concerns about the changes, contact West Swindon Family Centre. See details below left.

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How can litter louts and perverse dog owners be dealt with?

Leonora Murray spent three hours before Christmas filling three bags of rubbish in thirty yards on the footpath between Old Shaw Lane and Shaw Village Centre, and felt compelled to contact The Link about the state of public spaces.

She said: “I became increasingly angry that Swindon Council has spent a lot of money on street signage across West Swindon, but doesn’t clean up street litter effectively. From the amount of beer cans, kebab boxes and sweet wrappers I doubt if that stretch

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The Mobility Store in Wroughton specialises in providing mobility aids, specialist foot care, hearing tests, rise and recline furniture, adjustable beds, bathlifts and stairlifts, as well as wheelchairs and scooters for sale or hire.

They also provide a valuable service to people who are temporarily incapacitated. “If you’ve broken your leg or something and you just need a wheelchair for a short while it can be tricky to know where to get hold of one,” says proprietor Willy McIvor.

“Hiring one from a reputable company means that you can be confident the wheelchair is secure.”

To ensure the road-worthiness of mobility scooters The Mobility Store offers tuning and servicing.

Safety is paramount, especially if the weather turns cold and icy. Willy added: “It doesn’t seem like much to people who can get about without mobility aids, but for walking stick users slippery surfaces can be a nightmare.”

During February he is offering a free walking stick ferule (the rubber tip on the end) to all stick users, with the advert below. Also in stock are ice spurs to go around the bottom of men’s and ladies’ shoes to ensure a secure grip on icy surfaces.

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of footpath has been litter picked for years. And I don’t understand why dog owners have to hang their dog’s excrement from bushes and branches.

“Still, we can enjoy the stick-on signs.”

Shaw councillor Keith Williams said he was trying to protect the Streetsmart budget from further cuts.

“It’s one council service that the majority of people benefit from.

“I am aware that a lot of individuals and also groups regularly patrol areas to keep them litter free and I welcome their initiative. I’d encourage

more people to do the same, but also appeal for people not to drop litter in the first place.”

The West Locality team organised several community clean ups in 2012.

If your area has become unsightly and you want to do something about it with others, contact Gail Light: GLight@swindon.gov.uk

Gail with volunteers giving Westlea Park a tidy up in July 2012 Advertising Feature

Did you know that if you die without a will, you have no control over who inherits your wealth?

Swindon Will writing company Foresight Wills says, if there is one thing you should do in 2013, it’s write a will.

If you already have one get it checked will inherit what you own. If you are to make sure it complies with current married then your spouse’s inheritance legislation and meets your wishes. will be limited.

Nigel Schofield, senior consultant at “If you are co-habiting your lifetime Foresight Wills, said their free home partner could end up with nothing. If visiting service has made things a lot you have children from a previous easier for clients. “Home visits are relationship, they could end up with popular for those who find it difficult nothing and if your spouse or partner to get to our town centre office. People marries after your death, your children are also a lot more relaxed at home as could receive nothing. For the sake of well as having any relevant paper work a one hour appointment all this could close to hand.” be avoided.”

But Nigel is concerned that having a “Our service means that we can fit will is not at the top of people’s agenda. in with our client, even if that means Yet the implications of passing away an evening or weekend discussion.” without a proper will in place could As well as making the initial process leave big problems for those left be- much easier, Foresight Wills makes it hind. “People often say that they intend far more likely that people will keep to write their will but can’t find the time, their wills up-to-date as they also offer so it just sits on the ‘to do list’. a free annual review service.

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Millbrook senses the importance of a nature haven orchard which will provide fruit for the pupils in years to come.

Funding for the sensory garden came from the parent and friends association, as well as the pupils’ own efforts in raising over £800 from an enterprise challenge.

The project has involved pupils from all age groups and interests.

Foundation stage children built a bug hotel, and older pupils made wind-chimes for the area.

Commenting on the value of green spaces on our doorsteps David said: “We need to make the most of the green spaces around us because of the benefits to bio-diversity and well-being.”

Call David about tree planting and establishing natural wildlife habitats at your school on 01793 490150.

As part of the Primary Science Quality Mark Gold Award, Millbrook Primary School in Freshbrook is developing a sensory garden, including fruit trees, an activity trail, raised beds for growing vegetables, a wildflower meadow, willow structures and a central sculpture.

In December David Boase from Swindon Commercial Services supervised the planting of eight fruit trees donated by Great Western Community Forest. Staff, parents, PTA and children from the school gardening club joined in to create the

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Scholarships on offer at private school Meadowpark, the independent school in Cricklade, is holding open days in March and the headteacher Mrs Rajvinder Kular wants parents to know that a scholarship scheme has put private education within reach of many more families.

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“It is widely recognized that independent schools provide a high standard of education and small class sizes, with a high staff to pupil ratio, together with good discipline, and generally give children the best chances to achieve their full learning potential,” said Mrs Kular. “We believe that all children should have access to good quality education. At Meadowpark we make private education affordable by offering scholarships for 7 and 8 year olds.

“This is a rare opportunity for parents to give their children the best possible education at up to 50 per cent off the fees. Extending the affordability of an independent education to a greater number of families means that more children will have the opportunity to achieve their best.”

Meadowpark School and Nursery in Cricklade educates and cares for children aged 3 months to 11 years.

See the front page advert for more details.

Link can be read in depth at Isambard

Shortly after it opened, just over five years ago, the learning resources centre at Isambard School in North Swindon received 20 years of back issues of the magazine and now has a collection of over 300 editions for pupils to refer to.

Learning resource manager Stella Rogers said The Link is well thumbed by youngsters. “It provides a very good record of the social history of North Swindon. The pupils use it as a reference point for their studies and there’s always somebody looking at them for leisure.”

Stella and Ollie Bentley with a display of Swindon’s best read publication

Visit www.swindon-college.ac.uk to register or for more information Main Switchboard: 01793 491591 Freephone: 0800 731 2250 Student Services: 01793 498308 Swindon College, North Star Avenue, Swindon, Wiltshire, SN2 1DY

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swindonlink.com • February 2013

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18/01/2013 11:10

Abbey Meads pupils love to Stomp

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Creativity and recycling with David Gallagher and Manasseh Jackson of Stomp

Explaining how he got Stomp involved headteacher Bob Buckley said: “We’re constantly on the lookout for things that will provide the children with memorable experiences and opportunities. I remember seeing Stomp in London when they first started a decade ago and as we make recycled instruments and do Djembe drumming all through school, Stomp’s

music making fitted very well with the rhythms the children are familiar with.

“Their website says they do school workshops so we invited them in; it turns out that one of the Stompers who came along was part of the original troupe I first saw ten years ago. It was great to meet up again, and the children loved making so much positive noise.”

No Added Sugar and Oakhurst primary win competition for artwork across the school Swindon based arts participation company No Added Sugar and Oakhurst Community School in North Swindon have been selected by Pisces Educational Art Resource Suppliers for recognition of the quality of art in education.

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Gordon with Oakhurst youngsters in front of a tile work in the style of Hokusai

No Added Sugar artists Toni and Gordon Dickinson and Oakhurst headteacher Dale Burr, with pupils, will be presented with their prize in early February. The school received £300 in vouchers to spend on materials and a design based on a wall of butterflies decorated by children in the school reception has been used on the cover of the Pisces catalogue.

Toni and Gordon have had a long term relationship with Oakhurst where there are examples of their work with children at every turn. See the range of their creativity at www.noaddedsugar.org In February, with sponsorship from Swindon based Financial Services 4 Schools, who manage school payroll, bursar and HR services, No Added Sugar are running days for Swindon and Wiltshire to help teachers and bursars learn how to write attractive grant funding applications.

Later in the year they will be running creative arts workshop for arts coordinators and teachers.

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swindonlink.com • February 2013

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18/01/2013 11:11

Calling young songbirds in Swindon who want to sing Scholarship places for boys and girls aged 9 to 13 years are up for grabs at the JTP Trust, for youngsters who enjoy singing and are eligible for free school meals.

The classes take place at HaydonThe JTP Trust aims to promote, leigh Primary School, Haydon Wick improve, develop and widen public on Tuesdays and at Lydiard Park education and appreciation of vocal Academy on Fridays. music through classes, workshops and The JTP Trust are able to offer presentation of recitals and concerts. scholarship places as a result of their Children not in receipt of free school sellout performances of ‘Swindon: meals are also very welcome to attend.

The Opera’, in July 2012 which was For details mail: info@jtptrust.org supported by a BIG Lottery Grant. or call 01793 535185.

Creche at Link Centre caters for parents who want fitness and fun with friends Did you know that Link Centre is the only fitness centre in Swindon which offers a low cost creche next to where you can enjoy some me time in the gym, on the ice, in a class, or the pool - or just having a cup of coffee or a browse in the library?

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

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Lots of parents with babies and under 5s started the new year thinking about how to get fit and lose weight, but were put off because it was too difficult to arrange childcare.

The Ofsted registered creche for 0 to 4 year olds is open on Monday and Tuesday: 9.15am to12.15pm; Wednesday and Friday: 9.15am to12noon - timed to allow parents to take part in a wide range of daytime sessions, from Body Attack to Zumba.

Natasha Kanias Garitsis from Old Town said the opportunity to use the creche has given her freedom to enjoy Link Centre facilities knowing her child is being well looked after. “The staff Helen, Lizzy and Jenny are very approachable, dedicated and warm.

Above all they are educators who spend time playing with my son who was 14 months when we started to go there. It’s so important to have confidence in the people who are looking after your child - even for a short time.

“The room is bright, light and airy,

a good environment for childcare, and the cost of the creche is just right to justify gym membership.”

Natasha believes the creche is a service that Swindon Council should maintain. “Mums especially need time for their own mind and body, and taking part with others in a class or working out in the gym is so important. I’d like to see more parents making use of this essential facility.”

Domnike Arampatzi from Purton also uses the creche. “It’s a fabulous service, the only one in the Swindon area offered at a sensible price. The creche ladies are lovely and understand how difficult it is for mums to let somebody else look after their baby.

Before I started going to classes they encouraged me to go and have a cup of coffee next door to let my daughter get used to them.”

For information on prices and registering your child call into Link Centre, tel: 01793 445566, or see: www.leisureinswindon.co.uk

swindonlink.com • February 2013

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18/01/2013 11:55

Headteachers try to protect most vulnerable families from council budget cuts Swindon Council's cabinet, considering proposals for its 2013-14 budget is looking to slash £380,000 over two years from children’s centres.

The plan was to reduce staff man- viable and would not meet the objecagement costs by putting 14 children’s tives of delivering the social benefits centres across the town which are run children’s centres currently achieve by primary schools, academies and with the most vulnerable families in charities into just four clusters.

Swindon.

The proposal caused consternaHowever councillor David Renard, tion amongst the heads and staff of cabinet member for children's service, the children’s centres who fear that denies there would be a loss of service families, reeling under the impact of but would like the heads of centres to changes in welfare benefits, will suf- come up with alternative ideas. “The fer. Currently the children’s centres original proposal is now half-on and are managed as separate entities by half-off the table,” he said. teams who build close relationships Abbey Meads Primary School with families in the geographical areas headteacher Bob Buckley welcomed they serve. the opportunity to have further Representing heads of the differ- discussions. “We are pleased that the ent centres at the December cabinet cabinet have agreed to work closely meeting, headteacher Nick Capstick with the heads of service in each locatold councillors that the clustering tion to ensure the best protection of proposal is not ethically or financially our most vulnerable families.”

Lion ladies boost Hop, Skip & Jump funds Wives and partners of Swindon Lion members were busy during 2012 raising money for charity at monthly coffee mornings.

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

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Have you a child/children under the age of 5?

Yes – then come along and see what your local Children’s Centre has to offer you and your child/children at the Michael Lowe, with Lions president Thelma Potts, right, and Nina Mitchell

They chose to support the respite centre for children with severe disabilities at Upper Shaw Farm after one of the ladies heard about the work of Hop, Skip and Jump.

Swindon Lions chair Thelma Potts, presenting a cheque for £228 to Hop, Skip and Jump manager Michael Lowe, said: “Lions are all about working for the community and raising money for good causes.

The wives and partners group get together independently and choose their own charity to support.

“Swindon Lions would also really like to hear from readers who would like to join the branch and get involved in our fundraising efforts throughout the year.”

The branch has been in existence

for 48 years and welcomes men and women to its meetings on the first and third Monday of the month at the DeVere Village at Shaw Ridge.

Members organise the big firework’s display at the Polo Ground in November, Christmas collections and several smaller fundraising events during the year, and also enjoy social activities.

To find out more call Alan Mitchell on 01793 642898.

Hop Skip and Jump are always keen to hear from groups, businesses and individuals interested in supporting their work with children. Find out more by contacting Michael Lowe, centre supervisor: supervisor.swindon@hopskipandjump.org.uk or call 01793 977175 or 07557 435012.

Multicultural Community Event Thursday 21st February, 10am to 2.30pm Broadgreen Centre, Salisbury Street, SN1 2AN Refreshments provided

Workshops for Parents

Relaxed, friendly and informal To be held at Salt Way CC. Creche provided.

Tears and Tantrums Helping your Child’s Positive Behaviour Wednesday 20th February and 6th March 10am to 11am Let’s Play - Helping your Child to Learn Through Play Wednesday 17th April, 10am to 11am Call Salt Way CC for further information or to book your place

See our activities timetable at www.childrenssociety.org.uk/saltwaycc swindonlink.com • February 2013

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HEAD RUSH HAIR

Julie, Emi, Gemma

Tel: 602552

73 Basepoint, Rivermead, Westlea Behind Spectrum ‘Renault’ building

Open Tuesday to Saturday Late night Wednesday & Thursday Free parking • Cash/cheques only

www.headrushsalon.co.uk

preschool gymnastics where an early start makes a world of difference!

Council fostering team seeks carers in LGBT Adoption & Fostering Week: 4 to 10 March Swindon Borough Council is looking for foster carers and adopters from the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender communities, writes Cheryl Keller from the Family Placement Team.

Foster carers come from all kinds dren with the goal of returning of backgrounds. The only common them to their family; denominator is that they are people Permanent - where the plan is who are committed to helping chil- for children to remain in care dren and young people by offering to until moving to independence; share their homes and their lives for Crisis/Emergency - very shorta period of time. term care provided for families Swindon Council offers a range of in crisis. This includes ‘crash fostering options: pads’ in a range of circumTemporary - providing care for chil- stances; Home & Away - overnight short breaks for children with dis- training and an allowance. There is The Kirsty Farrow abilities. someone available 24 hours a day, Supported Lodgings - providing seven days a week to call and talk with.

Dance Academy For more information on fostering support within a family setting to or adoption, contact the Family Placeyoung people aged 16 to 21 years DANCE CLASSES ment Team on 01793 465700 or mail: transitioning from foster care to FOR CHILDREN fosteringswindon.org.uk independent living.

AND ADULTS Foster carers receive ongoing www.lgbtadoptfosterweek.org.uk BALLET – MODERN – TAP STREET JAZZ MUSICAL THEATRE ESPRIT CENTRE HEADLANDS GROVE, SN2 7HS

07817 476241 or 07980 918192 enquiries@tkfda.co.uk www.thekirstyfarrowdanceacademy.co.uk

Do you and your kids want to get fitter, healthier and happier?

MEND (Mind, Exercise, Nutrition, Do It!) is a free, fun 10 week healthy lifestyle programme for 5 to 13 year olds who are above a healthy weight.

Participants learn about healthy eating, nutrition and active play. Although two courses have just started, there is still time to join in and benefit: • MEND 5 - 7: Wednesdays at the Oasis;

daily classes for the under 5’s

01793 822262

www.esprit-gymnastics.co.uk

Earn extra money and choose your own hours

• MEND 7 - 13: Tuesdays at Link Centre.

Avon Representatives and Sales Leaders required (18+).

Free weekly group walks led by trained volunteers are organised by Challenge Swindon. Nobody is left behind and everyone enjoys a cuppa and chat afterwards. See details at www.challengeswindon.org.uk or call Amanda Rothwell on 01793 465413.

For details about MEND in Swindon contact Danielle Miche on 01793 465412 or 0781 851 0563, or mail: dmiche@swindon.gov.uk Find out more at www.mendcentral.org

Keep your new year’s resolution by walking

For details call or text The fun, safe way for babies to make a splash Sarah Magill Aquababies baby and toddler swimming classes are ideal for the mum who wants to get back into shape after the birth with gentle, fun exercise on 07766 881075

supported by water.

It improves your fitness at the same time as introducing your child to the water, BABY & TODDLER PARENT & BABY and you don’t have to find babysitters whilst SWIMMING AQUA FIT having fun together.

We’re the original baby 30 minute exercise program S et to nurser y swimming teachers. for parents and babies to rhymes Aquababies Teaching for over to enjoy together combines low impact and fat-burning 20 years aqua-aerobic exercises for an overall workout. As part of the routine the classes incorporate basic water confidence and movement techniques for your baby.

Parent and baby aqua fit groups are With pools all over Wiltshire and the West there’s bound to be a course near you small and tailored to suit everyone

AQUABABIES

01249 661561 www.aquababieswest.co.uk 18

in a friendly, warm and welcoming environment Classes take place in the warm pools at Dorcan Recreation Complex on Monday and the Hilton Hotel, by Junction 16, on a Wednesday, Friday and Sunday.

See the advert left for details.

swindonlink.com • February 2013

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Epic Hair Welcoming Tracey Terrett

FEBRUARY OFFER Full head of single colour foils and cut & blowdry £60 to 28.2.13

Unit 2, Rear of 122 Cricklade Rd, Gorse Hill SN2 8AG (behind Co-op). Tel: 01793 616668

A brand new quality magazine is now out – and it’s all about Swindon

Free parking • Cash or cheque only www.epichair.co.uk

Swindon Heritage is the brainchild of local historians and writers Mark Sutton, Frances Bevan and Graham Carter, and will be published quarterly, with the first 80 page edition available now.

Passionate about Swindon’s history, Mark and Frances have engaged the support of local history societies, collectors and - perhaps most importantly - the young people of Swindon.

In the first edition Commonweal student Frankie Wood writes about a school trip to the First World War battlefields and cemeteries on the Somme.

Frankie researched the story of George Edward Walker, a lance corporal of the 2nd Battalion Wiltshire Regiment, and writes: “We laid a cross to show how proud we were of the soldiers, and I must admit it did bring a tear to my eye.”

Magazine editor Graham Carter said the four pages devoted to the Commonweal student’s story are the most pleasing in the magazine.

“Swindon Heritage has features written by a string of highly respected local historians, but Frankie’s pages are everyone’s favourites.

“Seeing young people care about their heritage is a real boost to all historians, and we are keen to hear

Tracey & Sheralee

ing history. She has identified 19 local brickworks that sprang up during the town’s Victorian building boom which still couldn’t keep up with demand.

Her collection of historic bricks with local connections are featured.

The future for this innovative new magazine looks good explained Mark Sutton, who had the original idea .“We have received huge support from so many people and local businesses.

Arkell’s Brewery kindly agreed to host our launch on 21 January.

Continued on page 22

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from other local schools who want to get involved in researching and writing about their heritage.”

Swindon suffragette Edith New is the first edition’s cover girl. A former schoolteacher born in North Street, Edith played a prominent part in the Pankhurst-led Votes for Women campaign. But despite being the first suffragette to chain herself to railings as a means of protest, her story is little known in the town where she grew up.

Also featured is an interview with Wilts and Berks Canal expert Jan Flanagan, whose brick collection has opened a window on Swindon’s build-

Join us on Saturday 16th February for an evening with a five course meal with harpist followed by a romantic disco.

only £175.00 per couple

swindonlink.com • February 2013

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Marriott_SL_Feb13.pdf

1

18/12/2012

13:50

Swindon Wide

Swindon’s longest running festival hits 20!

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TV’s woman of the moment Clare Balding will be talking about her autobiography My Life and Other Animals, headlining an array of diverse authors at the twentieth Swindon Festival of Literature which runs from 6 to 18 May. The broadcaster’s well received book and her spectacular exposure across a wide range of TV and radio output makes her a huge attraction, alongside what is looks like an all star cast to celebrate the town’s long running cultural event.

Also booked to appear: veteran best-selling crime writer PD James; former London Mayor Ken Livingstone; impressionist and wordsmith Alistair McGowan; controversial philosopher AC Grayling; wildlife writer Kate Humble; environmental activist and author George Monbiot; television book club presenter and novelist Judy Finnigan, and founder of Childline Esther Rantzen.

Along with more speakers and performers yet to be announced, there will also be a number of other key events.

These include the uniquely invigorating Dawn Chorus in Lawn Woods on the spring Bank Holiday Monday; the body and mind-exercising Freedom Park Run, Walk and Author Talk in Lydiard Park; the now nationallyknown Swindon Poetry Slam and schools’ Youth Slam and the bookishlybrilliant Children & Families’ Day. There will also be the fourth philosophical Think Slam; the Life Writing & Writers’ Workshop; the fourth Battered Moons Poetry competition; the launch of another edition of mischievously-

(Annual membership only, terms and conditions apply)

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

The Dining Room

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

The Golf Course

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

Valentines Ball: Saturday 16th February, 7.30pm Live band, 4 course dinner

♥

♥

£45 per person. Please contact reception for more information

Bookings now being taken for Mothers Day and Easter Sunday Lunch

Tel: 01793 750751

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

Judy Finnigan. Photo: Bill Waters

Clare Balding. Photo: Bill Waters

serious magazine Domestic Cherry; the oh-so-exciting Poems, Pints, and Music Finale.

Packaged up with a wide range of literary talks, discussions, and readings at theatres, arts venues, libraries, schools, pubs, parks, and even in an ex-cowshed, this promises to be another fantastic two weeks.

Festival director Matt Holland said: “Our twentieth festival is something to get excited about. It promises to be both a fantastic feast and fabulous frolic. We will have adventurous authors, terrific talks, delightful discussion, wonderful workshops, and excellent entertainment.

“It will offer experiences that make life memorable, for everyone. People of all ages and backgrounds will be able to have a very good time. They’ll get together, meet authors, join in lively talk, explore new ideas, and even have a laugh.”

Building a festival’s reputation takes initiative, ingenuity and graft and Matt has delivered year on year, attracting big names, new writers, terrific speakers, and an ever larger following. At every level, it has become a splendid celebration for Swindon of things well written and things well said.

To join the festival mailing list, or for further information, call 01793 771080 or mail: swindonlitfest@lowershawfarm.co.uk www.swindonfestivalofliterature. co.uk See more pictures: ow.ly/gUvpO

Media Partner The 2013 Swindon Festival of Literature is made possible by funding from Arts Council England, South West, whose support represents recognition of the good things that have been achieved in literature development in the town. Financial support is also provided

by Dominic Winter Book Auctions; Swindon Borough Council’s Culture Swindon & Artswords; Swindon Libraries; the Council’s Adult Community Learning project; and Lower Shaw Farm; plus valuable support and assistance from First Great Western, Swindon Advertiser, Wiltshire Magazine, BBC Radio Wiltshire, Swindon 105.5, Total Swindon, Acorn Press, Waterstones and Pen & Paper bookshops, Swindon Visitor Information Service, Friends of the Festival, as well as a host of other local organisations and individuals.

20 swindonlink.com • February 2013

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Wedding Fayre at Blunsdon House Hotel Sunday 17th February 11am – 3pm FREE ENTRY

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Arts Centre costs deter silent film night fund-raiser

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Swindon Wide

New performance festival launches in April

Swindon production company Madam Renard’s has announced a new performing arts mini-fringe festival from 5 to 9 April, adding a significant event to the arts calendar alongside festivals for film, literature and poetry.

Mobile Hair & Beauty Swindon The Opera writer and but this shouldn’t rule out interesting producer Matt Fox ponders whether arts endeavours and amateur groups this could be an opportunity for who are the life-blood of arts activity Swindon to reinvent itself as a festi- in the town. In contrast the private Fully insured mobile hairdresser val town. “The April Mini-Fringe will venues I’ve approached have been covering all aspects of hairdressing be a musical, theatrical and artistic very supportive.” at AFFORDABLE prices! extravaganza and will include perAs a writer and promoter, Matt is Now also offering waxing treatments FEBRUARY OFFER formances from Madam Renards, TS clear that investment is key to the Theatre and Modern Musicals across health of a community. He said: “The Pamper yourself with 10% off all waxing and 10% off colouring treatments a number of differarts represent this Call for an appointment ent venues including great unwritten thing 07584 628 123 STEAM, Swindon Muthat has a huge effect kellysmobilehairandbeauty seum and Art Gallery, on people’s quality the Vic pub and at of life. If schools and Swindon Dance. We’re hospitals provide the also going to tie in basics for existence, with the Swindon Recital Series, and the arts grab people’s imagination. Nails ♥ Lashes ♥ Tanning 78 Basepoint Business Centre, Large selection of stands there’ll be an artists’ market at STEAM They make a statement on what •life Rivermead Dr, Westlea, Swindon SN5 7EX on Saturday 6 April, with perform- is like, they drive debate and make • Prize draw for brides to be ances throughout the day.” people think – and that makes life Shellac Fingers & Toes • Everything your wedding £40 forduring February Following his criticism that Swin- worth living.” under one roof don Council is pricing community So with a cultural calendar chock- ♥ Teacher qualified, groups and amateur arts organisa- full of enticing arts, music and litera- caring & reliable tions out of their buildings, including ture events, could Swindon re-define ♥ Competitive prices the Arts Centre, Matt commented: itself as a festival town? And if so, what ♥ A wide range of approved products “If you’re going to run arts venues would that do for the town centre?

Warm, friendly & relaxed solely as commercial concerns then Find details of Madam Renard’s Blunsdon, Swindon, SN26 7AS this is bound to happen. Of course Mini-Fringe festival at www.madamwww.blunsdonhouse.co.uk venues need to be financially viable renards.com and on Facebook

• Large selection of stands • Prize draw for brides to be • Everything for your wedding under one roof

Tel: 01793 721701

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Swindon Thamesdown Rotary Club will be holding their Silent Movies fund-raising event at the Ellendune Centre in Wroughton on 1 February, despite having used the Arts Centre for this event three years ago.

Explaining the decision to relocate After some research Richard chose the event to Wroughton, past presi- the Ellendune Centre where the rent dent of Swindon Thamesdown Rotary is just over a fifth of the Art Centre’s.

Club Richard Fry said: “Naturally the Reflecting on his decision, Richard Arts Centre was the first venue I ap- said: “How sad that I had to forsake a proached for our fundraising night purpose-built arts facility in Swindon but simply could not justify the cost of for an out of town venue.” approximately £540 for a four hour hirThe Silent Movies night is presented ing. It represented about 40 per cent in partnership with Swindon Film of the gross anticipated ticket sales. Society and features vintage film “The surprising thing is that I was with live piano accompaniment. See told by the Arts Centre management details at www.rotaryclubofswinCABAdvert_SAv2.pdf 1 13/01/2013 22:01 that the quote was the charity rate.” donthamesdown.org.uk

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Swindon Wide

Film festival has an Oscar nominated line-up Film lovers in and around Swindon can look forward to seeing some of this year’s top award nominations during Swindon Film Festival, 1 to 10 March.

Over half the films in the festival March means that we can feature are in the final selection for BAFTA and some of the award nominees. Several Oscar awards, both of which will be haven’t been shown in Swindon at announced in February. These include all before, and it’s great that we can Beasts of the Southern Wild, Search- also take them to a wider audience in ing for Sugarman, Skyfall and Anna Highworth and Cricklade. “ Karenina, all of which could be among The full line-up of feature films and the winners at both ceremonies. related festival events can be found at On the World Cinema stage, festival www.swindonfilmfestival.org, or call goers will have the chance to see 01793 330639 for a brochure. awards contenders such as Rust and Tickets will be on sale from Monday Bone, The Hunt and Untouchable.

4 February at the Visitor Information Festival organiser Barbara Hoff- Centre in Swindon Central Library, tel: bauer said: “Having our festival in 01793 466454.

First Heritage magazine published (continued) As Swindon’s oldest company, which marks 170 years of brewing this year, it’s fitting that they should be the ones to launch a magazine celebrating our heritage.”

Brewery founder John Arkell sought his fortune in Canada before deciding home was really where his heart was.

Read his story in the first edition.

The Swindon Heritage website will develop into another local history resource. Swindon Heritage/Extra will offer additional in-depth stories to subscribers of the printed publication.

Mark added: “There is a huge interest in local history, and Swindon has some hidden gems. We already have lots of material for our second edition and it just keeps coming in.”

Swindon Heritage costs £4.99 per issue and there are significant savings with an annual subscription.

A series of open days and one-off events are planned to promote the magazine. Find out more at www. swindonheritage.co.uk Follow the team on Twitter at @ swindonheritage

Take a step in 2013, during Fairtrade week, 25 February to 10 March Despite austerity, we shouldn’t lose sight of the people who grow our food in other parts of the world, writes Barbara Aftelack, chair of Swindon Fairtrade.

In 2010, in the first recession, UK sales of Fairtrade goods climbed to £1.17bn; 9.3 million cups of Fairtrade tea were being consumed, along with Swindon Fairtrade is running the 3.1 million Fairtrade bananas. We don’t Trustea Campaign to persuade have the latest figures but, if the trend the National Trust, with its HQ in continued in 2012, sales of Fairtrade Swindon, to stock Fairtrade tea in goods may have topped £2bn. its tearooms around Britain. Find Yet this is still a tiny amount of the out more and sign the petition at products consumed in Britain; there is www.swindonfairtrade.org room for huge improvement.

‘Fairtrade is about creating a global walk sometimes two miles to the river family,’ says Tadessa Maskela, director and back to fetch water in containers; of a coffee cooperative in Ethiopia who who want to live rather than exist; was largely responsible for persuading farmers who need justice, not aid.

Marks & Spencer to switch to Fairtrade Fairtrade is the only certification coffee in all their high street shops. scheme that guarantees a minimum This encapsulates how we need to price for products, plus a community think about our shopping - physically premium to purchase items of comor online. Most of us in the Western munity benefit - for example a village world live with our multiple cars, warm water pump to ensure a clean water homes, clean fresh water and educa- supply, school books or healthcare. tion for all our children as standard.

So, when you’re wondering which Behind the coffee, tea, sugar or juice brand to pick - why not look for the you’ve selected is a farmer and his one with the Fairtrade mark and family struggling to exist: farmers who make a real positive difference to have to make choices about whether somebody’s life? Somebody you will or not to send their children to school probably never meet, who will never because they can’t afford the books be able to thank you but who is part and pencils; whose children have to of our global family.

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Swindon Town Centre www.swindontowncentre.co.uk

Looking for inspiration this half term?...

When you think you’ve just sent the kids back to school after the Christmas onslaught, February half term turns up!

Looking for something to do? Why not get involved in some of the activities going on in Swindon town centre.

Keep the teenagers entertained:

At the Wyvern Theatre Masterclasses in Theatre Skills Sat 2nd February - Sat 16th March. Do they have a passionate interest in theatre?

Whether they’re a student, writer, performer, designer or director here is an opportunity for them to be inspired by some of the country’s foremost theatre makers.(Participants must be aged 16 years and over.)

The Role of the Director Sat 2 February 10.30am - 4.30pm The Actor and the Voice Sat 9 February 10.30am - 4.30pm Production Design - Set, Costume and Props Sat 16 February 10.30am - 4.30pm An Introduction to Physical Theatre Sat 23 February 10.30am - 4.30pm An Introduction to Stage Combat Sat 2 March 10.30am - 4.30pm Drama School Preparation - Interview and Monologues Sat 9 March 10.30am - 4.30pm How to Write a Play Sat 16 March 10.30am - 4.30pm

of Milan.

Shakespeare 4 Kidz The Tempest is a mystical, magical, mysterious, musical romantic comedy of revenge, a father’s love for his daughter and the misuse of power.

Perfect for those studying Shakespeare at Key Stage 2 and Key Stage 3.

Tickets: £19.00 Under 16s: £12.00 Schools: £12.00 + 11th ticket free

For the active family:

Can’t wait until half term? Then why not try some family fun at the 80’s Roller Disco Friday 1st February 6:00pm - 9:00pm at MECA.

For those wanting to be entertained:

Sick of taking them to the cinema?

Then why not watch something live at Swindon Dance, they’ve got lots on offer. Theo Clinkard will be performing on February 15th at 7.45pm. Ordinary Courage is Theo Clinkards rousing new work for his company of six dancers and live piano, which brims with visceral and eloquent physicality. A luminous room lit by Zerlina Hughes and an A Musical by Shakespeare 4 Kidz original score by Alan Stones that Wed 20th February 10.30am & 1.30am incorporates Scarlatti and Bach provide Storm! A shipwreck! An enchanted island! All under the magical spell of one the canvas for some breath-taking performances by an international cast of man - Prospero, the former Duke

February 2013

For Business For Shopping For Leisure

Inside

this edition...

p2 Get Romantic

p3 Valentines Day

Questionnaire p4 Questionnaire dancers drawn from the likes of Random Dance, Richard Alston, Siobhan Davies, Sydney Dance Company and Akram Khan.

For the active kids:

For those who just want to be active, why not take them for a swim in the Health Hydro on Milton Road. This way mum can do the shopping while dad and the kids can keep active round the corner.

Plus with car parking only £2 for four hours – there’s no excuse but to have hours of fun!

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

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Get romantic!

Swindon Town Centre

Being Romantic doesn’t have to be embarrassing!

Now January’s out of the way, thoughts Food of Love of course do move onto the romantic Valentine’s Day falls on a Thursday this month of February and the 14th! year, so a romantic meal out early in the week sounds like a great idea, you It’s the one time of year when we can could then extend your celebrations get all gushy with the one we love through to the weekend. without getting too embarrassed.

So here’s our guide to the Valentine’s Swindon town centre has an excellent essentials available here in Swindon choice of Chinese, Indian & Italian town centre. restaurants, all of whom will be making a fantastic effort on the 14th to ensure Cards the evening is as romantic as possible.

The minimum if you’re going to tell someone that you love him or her, We would recommend contacting even if it’s a secret card. And in Swindon the likes of Da Vinci, Rio, Swindon town centre we’ve got plenty of card Rendezvous & The Khyber in earnest shops to choose from. to book your table.

So whether it’s a lovely effort with a cuddly bunny on it, a funny one with a slightly risqué message or something more direct then these stores will have what you need.

Money can’t buy you love, or can it?

With the essentials covered, we now think it’s time to turn our attention to those prezzies - big and small - that really say “I Love You”.

And we think that doesn’t mean spending a fortune, either.

Something as simple as a nice woolly hat and scarf, so that your loved one can stay all snug & warm when it’s cold outside, really shows you care.

May we also suggest you put a real spotlight on your loved one with a beautiful, freshly made three-course meal at the Wyvern Theatre.

But don’t forget to check out the Visit Clinton Cards or Card Factory for a offerings at Swindon Rendezvous, variety of lovey dovey choices.

Cosmo, Fratello’s and Aby’s Indian.

For those who want to make a really special effort, may we suggest you make your own card this year? And we’re not talking about a Blue Peter effort with sticky-back plastic.

Flowers

Chocolate!

Every woman loves chocolate!

So where better a place to source a personalised gift box than Thorntons in the Parade - they’ll even put a naughty message on it if you’re feeling cheeky.

Nothing beats a big bunch of flowers on Valentine’s Day, but it’s always the thought that counts, even if the delivery is just a single red rose.

Stay Overnight

The Flower Shop in Victoria Road always has a fabulous selection at this time of year, as you would expect. Big stores like Marks & Spencer also do flowers for delivery, so they’re worth checking out too.

Hotels such as Jury’s Inn, Menzies & The Holiday Inn have some fantastic mid-week accommodation offers that definitely won’t break the bank if you fancy really enjoying the early hours!

For those who really want to make the most of the day, why not stay over in the town centre?

A spot of pampering always goes a long way, as well.

You could either try a voucher from any one of the beauty salons in the town centre, or why not book direct and arrange a special nail treatment

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

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Valentines Day...

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

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

A beautifully presented box of lingerie or nightwear is a lovely way of showing how you feel about someone - plus it’s a present you can both enjoy.

At stores like Marks & Spencer, Debenhams, Topshop, BHS and H&M Without mentioning chocolate too much, you’ll find a complete selection of we also like the idea of the Chocomania stylish & sexy underwear to suit all tastes, and of course Ann Summers in range at The Body Shop in Regent Street, which features a decadently rich Regent Street, who tend to know a thing or two about Valentine’s Day gifts that body butter. Interesting! may surprise.

For men, of course, you can’t go far Something Sparkly wrong with a full body massage or if They do say diamonds are a girl’s best you think he may like it - or you just want to tidy him up - why not get him friend, but we can’t all be James Bond on Valentine’s Day. down for a mono-brow removal. or facial. OMG Hair & Beauty even offer a chocolate & orange massage if you’re feeling fruity. Aqua-G based in The Brunel has lots to offer as well as Cosmic Colours.

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

Find us on Facebook:

inSwindon BID Company Ltd

Follow us on Twitter: @inSwindon

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

However, sparkly gifts like a beautiful pair of white gold & crystal heart ear-rings from H Samuel in Regent Street or a heart-shaped compact mirror from F Hinds for £12.95, are perfect Something Sexy Don’t be afraid to express your real love additions to a card & flowers. And for someone with a slightly more daring don’t forget Pandora on Regent Street - a present from here will earn you gift. some well deserved brownie points.

He may not be so happy about it, but just remind him how much his appearance means to you!

From all at inSwindon, have a lovely Valentine’s Day!

19 - 48 February 13.indd 25

3

17/01/2013 16:30

Congratulations to...

Swindon Town Centre

Congratulations to the following...

We just wanted to pass on our congratulations to two companies this month.

Firstly to The Khyber situated on Victoria Road, the oldest Indian restaurant in Wiltshire, who picked up the Bangladesh Caterers Association’s Caterer of the Year award for the south west.

The accolade comes in a year when the restaurant celebrated its 50th anniversary by embarking on a new round of charity fundraising.

More than 1,200 people attended the ceremony, with EastEnders star Nina Wadia among those who congratulated the restaurant staff.

Questionnaire,

The Bangladesh Caterers’ Association represents more than 12,000 British Bangladeshi restaurants and takeaways.

We also wanted to congratulate Joshua Goldsworthy from Goldsworthy Hairdressers who won ‘best hair existentialist 2012’, the achievement awarded the 22 year old hairdresser the opportunity to now become a Global Ambassador for the company.

Keep up with the news on our website.

There’s only one place to check-out the latest news, offers, competitions and events taking place in Swindon town centre - and that’s on inSwindon’s new slick, easy to use website.

Swindon is the home to many of the UK’s top retail names, as well as the place to

We want to know what events you enjoy and want to see more of? This questionnaire is your opportunity to have your say

Name:

Marketing of Events: How do you find out about events in the town centre?

Events What type of events do you enjoy? (please tick where appropriate)

Interactive Activity Film Screenings National Screenings National Events

And if you are one of the hundreds of millions of people, who regularly use Facebook or Twitter, then make sure you’re a fan and a follower in order to keep up with the latest news on updates from the town centre,

thoughts matter... What else could inSwindon do for you?

We are here to make the Business Improvement District - that’s Swindon town centre - attractive and welcoming and we want to know what you as a shopper would like to see more or less of?

Email:

find specialist independent shops. Our site at www.swindontowncentre.co.uk contains chapter and verse on everything you need to know about the busy heart of Swindon including a comprehensive list of every store in town. Special offers which can be viewed at the site as well as a number of competitions with great prizes ranging from a year’s membership at Kiss Gyms to ipads and STFC tickets.

Any feedback you give us will be treated in confidence and we will not share it with anyone outside inSwindon without your

Where would you like to see more marketing about events?

written permission. Please return your questionnaire at your earliest convenience to the below address, or fill it in online on our website. inSwindon BID Company, Level 4, The Brunel Tower, Swindon, SN1 1LH

Would you be adverse to the Light Switch-On being moved to a Saturday?

Do you think we should include a shopping guide to Christmas rather than event focussed brochure?

Comments

(such as St George’s Day and Armed Forces Day)

Local events such as Alternative Fitness Event, Swindon Dance Performances etc?

Music Events Saturday Events Weekday Events Evening Events Sporting Events

Your comments about the Christmas Campaign. What would you change, what would you improve?

Christmas Events Answer the following questions…

Do you attend the light switch-on, and what do you particularly enjoy about the event?

Any other comments…

OtherComments: Do you like the light switch-on being on a Thursday?

4

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17/01/2013 16:31

A Swindon surprise four decades on Lucy Westcott looks at Britain’s oldest community television station which celebrates its 40th anniversary in 2013 Swindon Viewpoint, which is now past 40 years, with at least a thousand David Yates, director of exclusively online, but could be more to be converted from tape. But four Harry Potter films, is broadcasting again in the near more contemporary video is being a Viewpoint alumni. His future, has an impressive archive, added all the time says Martin. “We’ve first film, ‘When I Was containing thousands of videos and been covering a lot of more recent a Girl’ (1989), about a photographs of the town, stretching events to build on the huge history. young woman growing back at least 100 years.

“We don’t want to be a miniature up in post-war Swindon, was made television will be a success.

But the former cable channel has ITV, where people make programmes with sponsorship from Viewpoint.

Martin said: “Some of Viewpoint’s always been more than entertain- for you. Swindon Viewpoint is about Martin added: “Our aim is to create directors are enthusiastic about getment. Viewpoint’s chairman, Martin being of real social value to the town a living visual diary of Swindon that ting a license but others are saying, Parry, reminds us of the station’s and the Swindon people.” people can learn from… and have ‘it’s all going to end up on the internet social purpose, instilling a more engagement in their anyway.’ I personally see [a TV station] sense of pride in Swindonians town. It’s a community media as an additional thing… why not cover by illuminating the town’s rich venture.” all bases?” history and diverse communiViewpoint’s anniversary For those with a negative view ties - beyond Brunel and his comes at a crucial time for of Swindon, it will be a surprise to steam trains . community television, with discover the town’s community cable “It’s a really annoying sterethe Department of Culture, channel. With Swindon Viewpoint otype,” Martin said about the Media and Sport awarding considering broadcasting again, plus idea of Swindon as a cultural licenses to permit local TV the wealth of Swindon history now abyss and the butt of every services. Twenty have been online, the changing face of the town joke, whether it be on national awarded across the UK, in- will be documented for years to come. television or amongst the cluding neighbouring Bristol Forty years later it’s time to bring locals. and Oxford, with more to fol- Swindon together again.

“I think Swindon’s got an low. The first local services are awful lot to be proud of. It scheduled to air this autumn.

See the fascinating collection does [many] things well…

But with so much news of historic and more recent especially the music scene.” and entertainment online, videos and still images at Viewpoint was created on The original Swindon Viewpoint team on a shoot. it’s debatable whether the www.swindonviewpoint.com Below, young people learning to use cameras and reel 12 May 1958 as an ‘experiresurgence of local broadcast to reel video tape recorders mental’ television station by Radio Rentals, a company which laid Swindon Viewpoint continues to a cable network across Swindon to support accessibility to media, and compensate for the poor aerial recep- welcomes ideas from the public for tion during the 1950s. films. It also encourages people to The station didn’t start to flourish make their own; after some training until 1973 when the government is- and mastering the art of the steady sued six licences for local TV stations. hand, they are soon ready to tell By 1976 the community content of their story.

Swindon the channel was proving popular, In 1986, a group of Swindon mothng the North hools coveri e of facilites for sc w but government would not permit ers approached Viewpoint to make a ne in ng Based e after ve a large ra area, we ha oups and clubs to us s and advertising or sponsorship. Without film about how Thamesdown (now ay gr kd ity ee un w m m com -10p commercial opportunities the owners, Swindon) Council was not recognizing nning, s between 6 school hour nd. Whatever you're ru BOOK EMI, sold the channel to a not-for- their children’s dyslexia. The women YOUR all weeke space you're we have the g for. profit board of directors. got the support of dyslexic actress in look ASSES, NOW! GROUPS, CL AMS Funding for Swindon Viewpoint Susan Hampshire, who presented the TE , BS U CL E came from an experimental lottery film‘Dyslexia Rules K.O.’which went on ALL WELCOM scheme, which preceded the current to influence council policy.

National Lottery, before it became associated with the new Media Arts Workshop created by Thamesdown (now Swindon) Council, which Martin was appointed to head.

Swindon Viewpoint’s output was largely produced by a dedicated band of volunteers for several years until cable operators, Swindon Cable, withdrew background support.

Combined with a change in council policy in the late 1980s, Viewpoint had to suspend operations until w.northsideswindon.co.uk widespread use of the internet Call 020 7901 3459 ww emerged twenty years later.

• GRASS PITCHES • FLOODLIT ALL-WEATHER PITCHES • SPORTS HALLS • GENERAL PURPOSE HALLS • DANCE STUDIOS • CLASSROOMS • MEETING SPACES • COMMUNITY ROOMS • FACILITIES AVAILABLE FOR CHILDREN WITH DISABILITIES: www.swindonviewpoint.com TRAMPOLINE, BALL POND AND HYDROTHERAPY POOL • DISABLED ACCESS • CATERING FACILITIES • FREE PARKING holds over 1,500 videos from the

PARTY

27

19 - 48 February 13.indd 27

18/01/2013 12:05

Swindon Wide What’s On

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Swindon’s easy to get to domestic spares outlet Spares & consumables for all your appliances

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Vacuum cleaners: bags, filters, belts etc; washing machines; tumble dryers, dishwashers; cookers; ovens; hobs & hoods; small appliances & garden tools

Highly competitive prices, available online or direct from: Unit 83 Basepoint Business Centre Rivermead Drive, Westlea Swindon SN5 7EX (FREE PARKING Telephone 01793 608844 email: suds-online@hotmail.co.uk

Roves Farm A great day out, come rain or shine

Sevenhampton, Nr. Highworth, Swindon, Wilts.

SN6 7QG 01793 763939

OPEN DAILY from 11th Jan, 10:00am - 4:30pm Full programme of events throughout the day: * Meet & Feed the Animals- three times a day ! * FREE Tractor & Trailer Rides around the farm * Children’s Themed Making & Sticking * Indoor Toddlers Soft Play & Sandpit * Activity Barn with Pedal Tractors, Giant Slide & Ball Pond * Big Straw Bale Climb, Bouncy Castle & Outdoor Play Area * Tearoom - delicious homemade cakes & light lunches !

Special Toddler Activities every Weekday during Term Time

www.rovesfarm.co.uk

Music

Sunday 24th, 7.30pm The Ragdolls. Four sensational harMonday 28 January to Saturday 2 mony vocalists recreate the magic of February. Mon to Thurs 7.30pm; Fri Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons.

5pm & 8pm; Sat 4pm & 8pm £19. Wyvern Soul Sister. A new musical full of heart and soul, featuring many classic hits Wednesday 27 February to Saturand electrifying choreography. £18 - day 2 March, 7.30pm Ten in a Bar In Full Voice. Swindon’s £30.50. Wyvern premier close harmony singing group Friday 1st, 8pm celebrates its 20th anniversary with Colin Blunstone. There’s fresh apan eclectic mix of songs and comedy preciation for Colin’s work in his own skits. £11, tickets from 881798. Arts name, as guest vocalist with countCentre less other artists, and for his legacy with the legendary Zombies. He has recently released a new album, On The Air Tonight. £16. Arts Centre Monday 4th to Saturday 9th, Mon Saturday 2nd, 8pm - Sat 7.30pm; Wed & Sat 2.30pm Hank Wangford & The Lost Cowboys. Hank’s style of music has inspired many others and is notable for its humour, cheerful irony and the occasional excursions into biting political undercurrent. £16. Arts Centre Sunday 3rd, 7.30pm Think Floyd. An amazing recreation of the atmosphere, visual magnitude and musical excellence of Pink Floyd. £20. Wyvern The 39 Steps. This blissfully funny Sunday 10th, 3pm Lazy Sunday Afternoon with MR show follows the incredible advenLove & Justice and friends. Acoustic tures of the handsome hero Richard folk/pop and roots music with guest Hannay as he encounters dastardly performances. £5. Arts Centre Studio murders, double-crossing secret agents and devastatingly beautiful Thursday 14th, 7.30pm Beyond the Barricade. A new show women. £17.50 - £26. Wyvern with a cast of past principal perform- Wednesday 6th to Sat 9th, 7.30pm ers from West End musicals. £20.50. A Murder Has Been Arranged by Emlyn Williams presented by The Wyvern Western Players. Sir Charles Jasper, Thursday 14th, 8pm Graffiti Classics. A night of 16 strings, an acknowledged expert on the oc8 dancing feet and 4 voices with the cult has arranged a birthday party for aim to make classical music wickedly himself on the stage of a theatre that is funny and fantastically exhilarating for reputed to be haunted. If Sir Charles is alive at 11pm he will inherit £2 million everyone. £12. Arts Centre but if not his distant cousin Maurice Saturday 16th, ​8pm Mullins will inherit instead! £8, to book Antonio Forcione Trio. Multi-award call 07575 711522. Arts Centre winning, genre-bending guitaristcomposer Antonio recently released Monday 18th, 7.30pm Sketches of Africa. The album show- Jane Eyre. A classic story of love, loss cases his compositions with local and redemption in an intriguing new musicians who, together, evoke a adaptation of one of the great gothic joyous, spiritually beguiling homage novels. £12. Arts Centre

Drama

to the continent. £17.50. Arts Centre Sunday 17th, 3pm Swindon Recital Series: MORE Schubert and Shostakovich with Miranda Dale violin, Caroline Dearnley cello & Paul Turner piano. £12; students (15-18) £2.50; 14 and under free. Arts Centre Friday 22nd, 8pm Larry Miller Band. Larry Miller is famous for his mesmerising guitar playing and rip roaring shows. £13.

Arts Centre Saturday 23rd, 7.30pm A Viennese Strauss Gala. Soloists from leading opera companies with a sparkling new production recreating the romantic Viennese festive season. £19. Wyvern

Film Wednesday 13th, 7.45pm The Source (15). In a remote North African village, the wives fetch water while their idle husbands drink tea.

And then one day the women decide to go on sex strike…..SFS. Arts Centre Wednesday 20th, 7.45pm Even The Rain (15). A topical drama set in Bolivia. As a director and his crew shoot a controversial film about Christopher Columbus, local people rise up against plans to privatize the water supply. SFS. Arts Centre Swindon Film Society (SFS) films are for members only. It is possible to join at any film showing

28 swindonlink.com • February 2013

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Comedy

Dance

Saturdays 9th & 23rd, 10am to 5pm Meet the Railway Workers. Former engine drivers, firemen and railway workers bring the days of steam to life. Normal admission charges. STEAM Sunday 3rd, 10.30am to 12.30pm Trees in Winter Walk. Children must be accompanied. Free but book a place on 770404. Lydiard Park Saturday 9th to Sunday 17th TrixieTrail. Follow in the paw prints of Lady Mary’s dog, Trixie to learn about the pets and animals of the house.

Children must be accompanied. Normal admission charges. Lydiard House Tuesday 12th, 10am to 11am, 12noon to 1pm & 2pm to 3pm Kite Making. For ages 7+. £5, book on 770401. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Lydiard House Thursday 14th, 1.30pm My Big Little Sister. A delightful new play taking a light-hearted look at the pressure of consumerism on young minds and learning what happiness really means. £8; family £25. Arts Centre Thursday 14th, 12noon to 3pm Lovely Lanterns. Make a painted glass tea light holder. £3, drop-in event.

Children must be accompanied by an adult. Lydiard House Sunday 17th, 3pm LDN Wrestling. Fast-paced actionpacked championship wrestling. £13; family £44. Wyvern Wednesday 20th, 10.30am & 1.30pm S4K’s The Tempest. A mystical, magical, musical comedy production from Shakespeare 4Kidz. £19; under 16s £12. Wyvern Wednesday 27th, 1pm & 4pm & Thursday 28th,10am & 1pm

Sunday 10th, 8pm Russell Kane with his hilarious new show, Posturing Delivery. £18.50.

Wyvern Tuesday 12th, 7.30pm I Love Swindon. Meet an ordinary couple Burt and Joyce who volunteer in an ordinary charity shop on Victoria Road, and are about to have one of the most extra-ordinary days of their lives….£12. Arts Centre Friday 15th, 8pm

Friday 1st, 7.45pm Parlor Dance. A fast moving, acrobatic performance. £10, £7. Swindon Dance Friday 15th, 7.45pm Theo Clinkard. Contemporary dance with live piano. £10, £7. Swindon Dance Thursday 21st, 7.30pm Essence of Ireland. Breathtaking dance routines combined with the very best of Irish music. £23. Wyvern Friday 22nd, 7.45pm Sonia Sabri. Kathak dance presented in a modern way with music and words. £10 & £7. Swindon Dance

Jo Caulfield: Better The Devil You Know. The celebration of anger continues with acerbic stories about dating, relationships, bad service and wrestling with a self-scanner in Tesco.

Age 16+. £14. Arts Centre Saturday 16th, 8pm Roy Chubby Brown returns with his rip-roaring brand of banter. £21.

Wyvern Tuesday 19th, 8pm Mark Thomas: Bravo Figaro. Mark Thomas returns with a show about his father; a true tale of a self-employed builder’s love of opera, degenerative illness and how to put opera on in a bungalow in Bournemouth. Age 12+. £15. Arts Centre Friday 22nd, 7.30pm Hardeep Singh Kohl’s Indian Takeaway. Hardeep orders a curry live on stage, and then races against time to cook his own sumptuous feast before the takeaway arrives. £16. Wyvern Saturday 23rd, 8pm Henning Wehn: Henning Knows Bestest. The German comedy ambasBen & Holly’s Little Kingdom. An sador whose shows are a guaranteed exciting musical adventure through success! Age 16+. £12. Arts Centre the magical kingdom. £12.50 - £16.50, children £2 off; family £49. Wyvern

Fundraising Health, Beauty and Wellbeing Day Saturday 16 February 12noon to 5pm Therapists and beauty experts offering taster treatments and reduced prices. Jewellery, organic skincare and crystals for sale Raffle and refreshments Entrance £2. All proceeds to MS Society - Swindon Branch Drove Peoples Campus, Southampton St, SN1 3AH

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Swindon Wide What’s On

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Venues

Arts Centre Devizes Road. Tel: 614837 Lydiard House Lydiard Park. Tel: 770401 Roves Farm Sevenhampton Nr Highworth. Tel: 763939 STEAM Kemble Drive. Tel: 466637 Swindon & Cricklade Railway Blunsdon Station, Tadpole Lane SN25 2DA. Tel: 771615 Swindon Dance Town Hall Studios, Regent Circus. Tel: 601700 Swindon Information Centre Central Library. Tel: 530328 Wyvern Theatre Tel: 524481

@home in February Saturday 2nd, 5.45pm

Manchester Phoenix Saturday 9th, 5.45pm

Peterborough Phantoms Wednesday 13th, 7.45pm

Slough Jets Sunday 23rd, 5.45pm

Telford Tigers

Confirm date, time & price with venue swindonlink.com • February 2013 29

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18/01/2013 12:06

Swindon Wide

Plan to pack a Link when you go on your hols

We’re always keen to see The Link in far off places and would be really glad to receive pictures of you holding the magazine in context.

Thanks to Sarah Chilvers who included the March 2012 edition on a once in a lifetime expedition to the Galapagos Islands with her husband Dave. She is pictured with a pair of blue footed boobies more interested in looking their best for the camera.

Send your shots to publisher@swindonlink.com

Free writers workshop on how to publish and use social media to market your talent Following a successful writers day in November, California based crime writer Jenny Hilborne from Haydon Wick is leading another half day event on Saturday 2 February, 1pm to 4pm.

Jen, who has had two novels pubThe November workshop sponlished by a traditional publisher as sored by Basepoint Business Centre well as self-publishing her third, will and Swindon Link was enjoyed by provide tips and techniques and a twelve budding writers. Those on wealth of information on different the waiting list will be taking part on approaches to turning hard worked 2 February. Join them at Basepoint, words into something that can be Rivermead Drive, West Swindon. consumed by a wider audience.

The event is free, but a £2 donation She will also talk about resources on for refreshments will be requested. the internet to improve writing and Booking is essential. Contact Juliet about using social media as a promo- Platt: juliet@treetopscommunicational tool, and provide an insight to tions.co.uk or call 01793 727994 to the American market. reserve a place.

Develop your inner self through journal writing

250

BIKES ON SHOW All shapes, sizes and prices at:

SWINDON CYCLES SUPER STORE

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

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

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

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

Over two years ago Swindon Link writer and personal development coach Juliet Platt decided she would write a book about her life-long hobby of journal writing, and now that it is published, she’s offering an eight week course to pass on tips and techniques.

A delighted Juliet received The Journal Writer’s Handbook from the printer in December and explained how she had almost given up on the idea altogether,. “All budding writers know that nagging feeling of selfdoubt whenever a project seems to lose its momentum. At one point I was so unsure about whether I could stick it out that I actually wrote in my own journal that the book may or may not see the light of day. Ironically less than three months after writing those words I pushed the publish button and memories. Journal writing helps and ordered 50 copies from print-on- us discover inner resources we didn’t demand company Blurb!” know we had, and the book aims to Juliet has long been a passionate introduce new journal writers to its advocate of journal writing and has simple power.” conducted well-received introductory The Journal Writer’s Handbook is workshops and talks on the topic. With available to buy direct from Juliet at the right focus and intention Juliet £12.99. Contact her at: juliet@treemaintains that journal writing can be a topscommunications.co.uk powerful means of self-coaching and Follow her at www.bit.ly/jwhbook personal development.

She said: “People are always surJournal writing workshops prised by how rich and varied journal at Lower Shaw Farm writing techniques can be. It’s not just Eight weeks from Wednesday a question of writing down everything 20 February, 7.30pm to 9.30pm you did today. There’s much more Costs £80. Mail Juliet to reserve your to get curious about in terms of our space: juliet@treetopscommunicaintuitions, dreams, physical symptoms tions.co.uk

Valentine’s black tie ball at Isambard Community School with the Nathan Jones All Star Jazz Band Thursday 14 February, 7pm

❦❦

Organised in aid of Prospect Hospice by Simone and Bryce Chamberlain in memory of their mother Shelley Tickets £15 include a two course meal and entertainment.

Licenced bar. Auction & raffle Tickets from Helen Boddy, Isambard Community School, 01793 705400 or mail: helenboddy@isambard.swindon.sch.uk or www.ticketsource.co.uk/valentinesball/ (booking fee applies)

30 swindonlink.com • February 2013

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18/01/2013 12:10

Help beat the UK’s biggest killer February is National Heart Month and the British Heart Foundation (BHF) is appealing for people in offices, schools and community groups across the UK to wear red to help fight heart disease.

Heart and circulatory disease is the UK’s biggest killer, killing 1 in 3 men and women. The sad reality is that many of us already know someone who is affected by heart disease. It can cause frightening and prolonged suffering. Husbands, wives, parents and children continue to lose their loved ones. Heart and circulatory disease can affect anyone, at any time, young or old.

Rock Up In Red is the perfect excuse to rally offices, schools and community groups to go crimson,

Mrs Lesley Taylor

ROBERT S TAYLOR

MCFHP, MAFHP, MIIR, MAR

MCFHP MAFHP

ruby and scarlet.

The BHF is the single biggest independent funder of cardiovascular research in the UK and leads the way with improving patient care and supporting people who are living with heart disease day-to-day.

Want to get things rocking? Send friends, family and colleagues the RUIR link: bhf.org.uk/red or call 0300 330 0645 to register.

Once signed up, a fundraising guide and posters will be sent or they can be downloaded.

Say farewell to winter with Prospect Prospect Hospice is inviting walkers to join its annual Walk of Memories on Sunday 3 March, 10.30am.

The gentle five mile sponsored walk setting off from the Four Pillars Hotel at the Cotswold Water Park near South Cerney is an opportunity to raise funds for your local hospice in memory of a loved one, “The walk has been a key part of our fundraising calendar for several years

PAINFUL FEET?

DO YOUR FEET NEED CARE AND ATTENTION?

now,” says Prospect events fundraiser Genevieve Arney. “People can walk it at the pace they want, and often bring along friends who share memories with them. And, because the terrain is relatively gentle, the whole family – including the dog - can enjoy it together.”

Registration is just £8 and can be completed at www.prospect-hospice. net or call 01793 816161.

Revive your new year resolution by preparing for a mad outing in March Early February is the time when those fine plans made at the beginning of the year start to come apart. However the Mad March Hare on Sunday 24 March provides the perfect target to revive your fitness aspirations

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

Call 01793 695302 Mob 07753 143621

Corns, Calluses, Verrucas, Thick Nail or Ingrowing Toenails Call Freephone 0808 108 8545 or 01793 849914 Clinic at: 113 High Street Royal Wootton Bassett

PODIATRY/CHIROPODY treatment in your own home

Call Katie Boichat

HPC registered Podiatrist BSc (Hons) podiatry

07823 771675

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Give your feet the care and attention they deserve

07503 633242

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

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

IF YOU SUFFER FROM: • Backache & Leg Pain • Neck, Shoulder, Arm Pain • Head Pain • Numbness • Arthritic Pain • Sports Injury • Injury after Accident

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THEN YOU SHOULD CONSIDER CONSULTING A CHIROPRACTOR

FREE

SPINAL CHECKS

EVENING & SATURDAY APPOINTMENTS

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

Organised by Swindon volunteers in aid of Breakthrough Breast Cancer, the 5km and 10km routes around Lydiard Park are suitable for walkers, runners, families pushing chairs and dog walkers.

All finishers will receive a medal

and goody bag, including four-legged participants. New for 2013, for just £1, children taking part in the event can follow the fun trail along the 5km route to win an Easter egg.

Register for the Mad March Hare at www.madmarchhare.org.uk

Volunteer marshalls welcome If walking or running is not for you then volunteers, either on the day or as a member of the organising team, are needed. Call 0845 680 80640 for details.

MMH fundraisers Enter a team into a quiz night on 7 March at the County Ground and enjoy a pamper day on 10 March at Drove People’s Centre. See details at www.madmarchhare.org.uk swindonlink.com • February 2013 31

19 - 48 February 13.indd 31

18/01/2013 12:11

Link rink to shut during quiet months

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HOME VISITS AVAILABLE

The ice rink at Link Centre will close during the summer holidays for up to eight weeks from the end of July to allow for essential works to upgrade equipment.

The need to replace the ice freezing it was decided to defer the ice rink plant has been on the cards for several refurbishment for a year. It’s essential years but a study has shown that un- to renew the facilities offered by the dertaking the work is now considered council.” urgent. Swindon Council’s cabinet has agreed to fund the estimated cost of £768,000. There will be a £60,000 loss of revenue.

Cabinet member for leisure Keith Williams said the work had been planned for some time. “Originally we had it programmed for 2012 but when the pool emergency came about, Friends of 90 year old Vera Sheppard from Wootton Bassett organised her birthday wish to again appear on the ice at Link Centre before Christmas. She was a senior star of twelve ice shows at the centre during the 1990s.

Photo: Richard Wintle www. sportswindon.com

Pee Wee Wildcats programme aims to make Swindon the home of ice hockey in Britain With children as young as three taking to the ice at the Link Centre to learn how to play ice hockey in the Learn to Play programme, Swindon Wildcats ice hockey are demonstrating how popular the game is.

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Rink action on a Friday evening. Photo: Richard Wintle www.sportswindon.com

Explaining what’s on offer for youngsters, Wildcats general manager Steve Nell said: “The Learn to Play programme takes place on Fridays from 6.15pm for boys and girls between the ages of about 4 to 14. It’s open to anyone who has a basic skating ability and provides the foundation to progress through the skill levels before being invited to join the Wildcats Academy.”

Swindon Wildcats has the biggest youth section in the country, with 180 registered players, 50 of whom are under ten years old. The junior squad comprises five age groups, each with two teams, including a girls only under 16 team. Fixtures are played all across the south of England, with each team playing 20 games per season.

Steve is also the director of Okanagan Hockey Academy based at Link Centre which launched in September, providing daily hockey training for 14 to 18 year olds who attend school at Lydiard Park Academy and local colleges.

Commenting on the club’s ambitions, Steve said: “We want to be the biggest club in the country, and make Swindon the home of ice hockey in England.”

All that’s needed to get involved is for the child to be keen, motivated and prepared to have fun. The first session of the Learn to Play programme is free, with equipment provided.

For more information contact the Swindon Wildcats Ice Hockey Academy office on 01793 886857.

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Ready for the bigger splash Keen swimmers are dusting off their costumes ready to take to the water again when the swimming pool at Link Centre reopens on Monday 11 February.

Lydiard Park Academy Wednesday 7pm - 8.30pm & Friday 6pm - 7pm

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Link pool nearly ready. Photo: Richard Wintle www.sportswindon.com

The facility has been closed for five months longer than expected, after it was drained at the end of last July for a 6 week retiling project. A wide range of unforeseen corrosion and botched past repairs on the 27 year old pool forced an emergency shutdown and a £200,000 makeover.

But as a result the pool is almost brand new. A large amount of hidden pipe and duct work has been repaired or replaced, and the pool itself retiled.

The water filtering and cleaning systems have been upgraded so that the water will have greater sparkle whilst requiring less chemicals.

A new safety surface has also been applied to the spectator seating area.

Link Centre acting centre manager Di Milner said staff will be welcoming users back. “The swimming clubs have managed to train elsewhere and we’ve been able to run all swimming classes at other pools. Schools have not been able to go swimming because of transport costs so they’re looking forward to starting again.”

With the completion of a new £800,000 roof, Link Centre is planning a big weekend in April to celebrate the wide range of activities on offer.

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Swindon to Paris cyclists look for charity to support Would you like to ... ..tone up? ..lose weight? ..have more energy? ..get some nutrition advice? ..enjoy a healthier lifestyle? ..improve your overall fitness?

Call Sue on 07828 714018 to discuss how I can help you achieve the lifestyle you want

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Twenty members of the Les Slinn Personal Training fitness studio and the Slinn AllStars running club are busily planning a cycling trip to Paris in July, arriving on the day that the Tour of France cavalcade arrives in the city.

As it’s the one hundredth anniverLes and his fit friends have a great around 300 words about your group sary of the tour, the first ever night track record of raising money for and explain how you could use any time finish on the Champs Elysee will charity, particularly Swindon Down’s money we can raise.” be spectacular. It will be even better Syndrome Support Group and the Send your proposal to: info@ if Bradley Wiggins, Chris Froome Swindon Centre for MS Therapy. lspersonaltraining.com by 8 February. and Mark Cavendish are leading the Les said: “We’re going to have a bit The winning entry will be publicharge for Britain. of fun, as well as fitness, and want to cised in the March edition and the The problem is, Les and his com- give ourselves an additional focus. If team will work with the group to raise patriots want a good cause to support you’d like to nominate a group, send us as much money as possible. and have turned to The Link to help Les in front of the new mural in his studio created by www.freshlickofpaint.com them find a local group or charity in need of their attention.

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Isambard School recently hosted a day of badminton for pupils with disabilities from Commonweal, writes Stephanie Neary.

The aim was to pilot a format for a tournament that would allow students to play in wheelchairs alongside able-bodied students.

Doug Imrie from Swindon Lifestyle team supplied the sports wheelchairs and badminton coach Steve Howard was on hand to give some tips. All pupils, including the able bodied children from Isambard, had the opportunity to experience playing in the wheelchairs, something that they thoroughly enjoyed.

Paul Searle from Brimble Hill school, who was responsible for

organising the event, part of a pilot project for Badminton England, then experimented with a variety of ways in which the Commonweal students in their wheelchairs could play with the able bodied pupils. One of the Commonweal students even decided that he would like to play without the aid of his chair and did extremely well.

The session was a tremendous success and something that pupils from both schools greatly enjoyed. It could be a template for further joint projects that incorporate disabled and able bodied children working side by side.

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Fundraising evening for Abbey Meads mum intensive treatment. However the disease has returned with vengeance and has spread to her lungs, spine and hip.

Sister-in-law Danielle MacDivitt said: “We are now all going crazy trying to spend as much time together as possible and raising money so that Natasha and her husband Danny can make lots of super memories together Natasha and Danny McDa- for the children. vitt with Joshua, 10, Hay“We are also raising funds for leigh, 8 and Katie, 4 vitamin D treatments not available through the NHS which could potentially give her a few more months.”

Family and friends are working hard to raise money to prolong the life of Natasha MacDivitt, 27, who was given a year to live in November.

She was diagnosed with cervical cancer a few years ago and she was cured after

Ben aims to end expedition rip-offs

Expedition coordinator and head of Year 10 at Isambard School, Ben Maxfield, has taken the radical step of setting up his own not-for-profit adventure company offering outdoor experiences to schools and corporate groups, after identifying that other businesses in the field were charging massive amounts of money.

Describing his aims, Ben said: “I realised that many expeditions for the Duke of Edinburgh award and the Three Peaks Challenge are largely offered to the private education sector because of the huge amounts of money involved. I want to make the UK mountains accessible to everyone, both physically and financially, so I set up BXM Expeditions in May last year. We charge around a third less than the big companies, and offer the Ben with Eddie the Eagle at Isambard usual range of experiences. We also School’s prize giving evening in Septailor-make projects for individuals tember. Photo: Richard Wintle www. and groups and offer Lads & Dads calyxpix.com trips for primary school age children.”

Ben is determined to see his year Ben has worked as a mountain group through their five years at guide all over the UK and interna- Isambard and will continue both his tionally, so the process of getting teaching and organising roles until licensed and insured was relatively July 2014. He said: “It’s hard work straightforward. He now employs at the moment, doing 14 hour days two people and works with qualified and working weekends and school climbers and experienced teachers to holidays. But it will be worth it.” lead the expeditions. www.bxmexpeditions.co.uk

Fundraiser 1 February The pampering and discount shopping evening at Nova Hreod School, Akers Way takes place on Friday 1 February, 6.30pm to 7.30pm.

Entry costs £2. There will be a wide range of stalls offering treatments, jewellery, health and fitness products.

GET FIT WITH CLAUDIA PAY AS YOU GO ZUMBA Join the party at Commonweal School Tuesday 18.30 - 19.30 Thursday 18.30 -19.30 19.30 - 20.00 (Tummy Toning) Arts Centre, Old Town Friday 09.30 - 10.30 PAY AS YOU GO Exclusively for kids (4 - 12 years) Rockin’, high-energy fitness-parties packed with special routines to music Red Oaks Primary School Saturday 09.30- 10.15 4 to 7 years Saturday 10.15 -11.00 8 to 12 years PAY AS YOU GO PILATES Improve your flexibility & posture; tone up and trim Commonweal School Tuesday 19.30 - 20.30 Art Centre, Old Town Friday 10.30 - 11.30 SALSA DANCE 8 week course from Friday 22 February at Hannington Village Hall For details call Claudia: 07933 793851 or email: latin5.claudia@hotmail.co.uk

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

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Youth mentoring supporter seeks sponsors Swindon business woman Sadie Harries has set herself a high target of climbing to the North Col of Mount Everest in April to raise £50,000 for SMASH. Sadie will be spending people who want to a month acclimatising on change their lives with an arduous trek through the help of trained menthe foothills before maktors. ing the climb. As a manOn her return Sadie agement trainer, she’s alwill be talking about her ways encouraging people experience at business to achieve more and push and community events past personal boundarto continue raising ies. It’s an approach she’s awareness of SMASH. taken in her fundraising She is offering a range events, by undertaking activities like of sponsorship opportunities to assist a bungee jump, a skydive, and most the charity. Find out more at www. recently stand up comedy.

SMASHeverest.co.uk or call CherSMASH, based at Link Centre, ryl Williams at Invensis on 08456 provides support to troubled young 806 106. swindonlink.com • February 2013 35

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Step forward tree planting helpers hidden green hideaway, a fragment The volunteers who coppice (cut of royal hunting forest which has down) trees so that they can regenernever been anything other than a ate over the next seven years need help woodland. to plant the saplings during March.

A date has yet to be agreed but if you would like to be informed of Roxanne comes up with a catchy business name when the tree plant will take place, Roxanne Walker-Loveridge from Taw Hill, when setting up a pet care mail: roger_ogle@mac.com business didn’t have to think too hard about calling it Walkers Dog Walk- • Find out more on Facebook - Peating & Pet Services. moor Community Woodland The former Greendown School pupil went onto Swindon College Plant wildflowers at before taking a degree in Animal Stanton Park this spring Science and Management at Lackham College. This included two work Stanton Park ranger David Boase experience placements in Africa and is appealing for volunteer conseron leaving Lackham she trained for vation rangers to get involved in three months with a dog walking and establishing wildflower habitats and grooming company in Ohio, USA. trying to reintroduce the indigenous “Painting dogs toenails and seeing meadow pasture that disappeared cats declawed and living pampered Roxanne with Yoji, a Hungarian over 70 years ago. lives entirely indoors, with their fur Vizsala At Stanton David is employing cut to make them look a lion was stress in kennels, as long as they have relaxed mowing to nurture the an eye opener,” said Roxanne. “My regular and reliable visits to exercise wildflower growth, and is planning service won’t be like that. I’ve always and feed them.” on planting a smaller patch with loved animals and I’ve realised busy Roxanne started her business in colourful annuals in the spring. He people want to enjoy having a dog September, offering her services said: “We’re always looking for more but don’t have the time to keep them mainly in North Swindon. Having volunteers. We can also help commuexercised, which is where I come in . now passed her driving test she can nity groups and schools to establish “Some owners are interested in let- visit customers and their dogs further wildflower habitats on their land.” ting their dog live at home when they afield. See details of how to contact To get involved call the rangers’ go on holiday, rather than cause them her in the advert on the left. office on 01793 490150.

Peatmoor Community Woodland Group has received 400 trees from the Woodland Trust to restock Peatmoor Copse, West Swindon’s

Dog Walking & Pet Services Need your Dog Walking while you are at work? Out for the day? Shopping or even whilst you are on holiday?

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36 swindonlink.com • February 2013

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Swindon & District Bonsai Society Winter Image Bonsai Show Sunday 24 February, 10.30am to 4.30pm Stratton Community Centre SN3 4JY

Swindon & District Bonsai Society honorary president Reg Bolton gained yet another gold medal in 2012 at the Chelsea Flower show, the fifth in a row.

The majority of the trees on display were from the Swindon club, so this is a good opportunity to view trees that have been regularly displayed at the largest gardening events in the UK and in Europe.

It is also one of the few bonsai shows in Britain held during the winter when without their leaves, the trees take on a different form.

There will be exhibits from other

Learn about fruit tree pruning and training

Sunday 10 February, 2pm to 3pm Walled garden at Lydiard House Book a place at £15 by calling 01793 770401 or mail: lydiardpark@swindon.gov.uk

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UK societies and demonstrations with John Armitage, a well known artist of the skills of bonsai, as well as trade stands supplying everything for the enthusiast.

For details contact: Paul Bowerbank, society chairman on 07982 401103 www.swindon-bonsai.co.uk

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

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

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

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25th trail across the Wiltshire landscape

Janet’s Puppy Skool

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

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

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Registration for the 25th anniversary Sarsen Trail and Neolithic Marathon, in aid of Wiltshire Wildlife Trust on Sunday 5 May is now open.

It’s for serious runners, walkers and cyclists, and also families wanting to enjoy a day out in the countryside.

There are a range of distances from 7 to 25 miles and two new bike routes across Salisbury Plain, starting and ending at Stonehenge.

See more information and register to take part at www.wiltshirewildlife. org

In today’s busy environment pets need commitment of continuous care. With my natural love of animals I have established Pawfect Paws so I can dedicate my working life to provide a variety of services based around the well being of animals.

Pawfect Paws caters for pet owners who require a dog walker, home boarding, pet taxi services and/or pet sitting for dogs, cats and small animals. All services are tailored to the need of your pets; please feel free to contact me to discuss your requirements

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Time to declutter and spring clean

Swindon’s NCT branch holds a nearly new Sale of baby and children’s clothes and equipment on Saturday 16 March, 11.15am to 1pm, at Oasis Leisure Centre. NCT members can browse from 11am.

See how to sell, buy or volunteer to help make the event a success at: www.nct.org.uk/branches/swindon/nearly-new-sale

High flying resolution for Ronni A Swindon teenager is getting into gear to jump out of an aeroplane for Make a Wish Foundation UK. Veronica (Ronni) difference and a skydive Rickett, 16, will make sounded like just the a tandem skydive on 2 ticket.

March at Redlands Air“I have quite a big fear field, Wanborough and of heights so it’s both a hopes to raise £500 for challenge to face my fears the charity that grants and to reach my fundraiswishes to terminally ill ing target. Make a Wish children. does such fantastic work, Veronica, who is in so it will be worth it.” her last year at Lydiard Park Academy Sponsor Ronni at www.justgiving. said: “I just woke up one morning and com./Ronni-Rickett or text ‘IFLY98’ decided I wanted to help, I wanted and the amount to 70070. www.make-a-wish.org.uk to do something crazy and make a

Shaw Ridge dangers for dogs Large animal bones have been found on the eastern end of Shaw Ridge, close to the primary school. Dog walkers are worried that they have been poisoned in some way and are advising others to keep their pets under contol in the area. An owner unwilling to be named said: “It’s a big concern that your dog could become ill or die if they find something which could be poisoned. It’s not worth taking the risk allowing them to roam around.”

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Thinking of neutering your pet?

Why not spread the cost over 12 months and receive a great discount The launch of our new Pet Health Club means that as well as spreading the cost of your pet’s routine vaccination, worm and flea treatment you can now upgrade to include the cost of neutering.

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www.thameswoodvets.co.uk 38 swindonlink.com • February 2013

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Technology SOS to the rescue As technology changes and develops ever faster it can be difficult for ordinary mortals to keep up and make sure we’re utilising the full potential of the products and gadgets we buy.

But help is at hand in the shape and streamlined communications, of Technology SOS run by life-long Chris can help you get the most out technophile Chris Weaven. of your investment.

He said: “I get a great deal of satisHe keeps abreast of the latest defaction from making things work so I velopments and explains features on took the decision to offer my services his informative and jargon-free blog. full time.”

Up to 31 January, Chris is offerWhether you want to transform ing 25 per cent discount on all high your domestic entertainment experi- definition multi-room hardware ence with multiple TVs, satellite boxes equipment supplied and installed by and surround sound, or make your Technology SOS. business more secure and efficient See the list of services on offer at with regular back-ups, PC upgrades www.technology-sos.co.uk

Exhibition created for the Queen tours the town

JS Services

A Portrait of Swindon, the digital installation made by Create Studios, using photography and video to celebrate the people and place of Swindon and The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee will be displayed at: • Designer Outlet Centre - Monday 11 to Sunday 24 February • North Swindon Library - 26 February to 28 March.

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Don’t chuck out your broken TV – get it fixed TVs, hi-fi and domestic appliances have become almost disposable items in recent years, but in tighter times it can make economic sense to get existing equipment repaired rather than buying new.

Hickmans of Old Town have over tion at the shop costs £35, or £55 if 60 years’ experience of repairing well the customer requires the item to be known brands of TV and hi-fi equip- collected from their home. In the long ment. With two dedicated engineers run, this works out a lot cheaper and on site they can diagnose problems more cost effective than replacing the and assess repairs at the shop, with item altogether.” no need to send equipment away to See the Hickmans advert on page the manufacturer.

22 for the telephone number and Explaining the costs involved shop details of a great offer on Panasonic manager Kav said: “A repair consulta- washing machines.

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WE REPAIR Steamed-Up Windows, Broken Hinges Handles - Locks NO CALL OUT CHARGE! NO MINIMUM CHARGE!

SAMPLE PRICE LIST:

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

Free survey:0800 61 22 943 email: info@windowgeeks.co.uk www.windowgeeks.co.uk Our glass comes with a 10 year guarantee swindonlink.com • February 2013 39

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

For a prompt friendly professional service

Telephone: 875354 Mobile: 07970 483393

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

Call Pete

Tel: 01793 612499 Mob: 07790 283186

ASHDOWN BATHROOMS & KITCHENS

Design to Installation • PLUMBING • CARPENTRY • TILING • ELECTRICS

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

No Job Too Small

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

FREE DESIGN CONSULTATION & ESTIMATE

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

NO JOB TOO SMALL

Mobile: 07985 195893 Tel: 01793 320447 Also general plumbing, tiling & plastering

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

01793 670115 or 0784 182 6390 for a Free Estimate

GASTECH THE INDEPENDENT GAS SPECIALISTS

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

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

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

MAKE YOUR HOUSE A HOME \

WILLING & ABLE

PROPERTY SERVICES 142573

SERVICE CONTRACT SPECIALISTS

FOR GAS SERVICE CALL 01793 848800

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

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

Call 01793 731979 or 07979 865620

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

Also hinges and locks.

Call: 01793 854448 or 07976 219671

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

For friendly advice call

01793 324026 or 07533 749104

www.willingandablepropertyservices.co.uk

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

Mob: 07956 301957 Tel: 01793 348597

www.haynesconstruction.org.uk

Haydon Wick Heating Services

All heating and plumbing works undertaken

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

Tel: 01793 748333 Mob: 07733897039

hwheating@googlemail.com

Want your wall or floor tiles fitted?

Then call

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

J&R Plumbing Providing plumbing services to clients throughout Swindon 28 years experience Friendly, reliable service OAP discount on request Tel: 01793 977377 Mobile: 07813 950899

Semi-retired Plumber 24hr emergency call out

217129

24 YEARS EXPERIENCE

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

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

Tel: 01793 324116 Mob: 07788 621772

www.assured-plumbing.co.uk

07845 90 80 60 or 01793 700 820

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DL Property Services

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

Northway

Electrician

• Misted/broken units?

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

Heating & Plumbing

All aspects of heating and plumbing work undertaken Gas Safe Registered

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

DOUBLE GLAZING REPAIRS

07795 166851 01793 728014

T: 01793 851374 M: 07860 689695

Contact Adam for free advice and quote: 01793 940089 07729 703898

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

Part P Approved Contractor

dixiainltd

upvc-swindon@hotmail.co.uk

MILESTONE

West Swindon Plumbing

Building Services

Complete Property Renovations & Alterations Kitchens / Bathroom Tiling / Flooring Brickwork / Blockwork Paving / Patios Fencing / Decking & Ground Works Carpentry / Plumbing

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

All Building Works Undertaken No job too small • Free estimates

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

Contact: Dean Scanlon Telephone: 01793 422032 Mobile: 077 8968 1536

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

Call Andrew on 07718 022201

07766 565458 01793 432512

ELECTRICIAN

D E Carpentry

Earthmoving Services

For all your carpentry needs

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

www.earthmovingservices.co.uk

B O U N DA RY WINDOWS

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

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

All at competitive rates.

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

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

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

www.boundary-windows.co.uk

Call Darren on 01793 629 629 www.crannistech.co.uk

www.delliscarpentry.co.uk 24/7 Emergency Call Out • All Works Guaranteed • Reliable & Affordable

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

Free Quotation / No Obligation

SWINDON 01793 341546 MOBILE 07799 118283

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

01793 878636

T.

523887

Power Flus hing Agent

www.CentraHeat.co.uk

CentraHeat.co.uk

www.

07739 357617

M.

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02/02/2011 09:58 18/01/2013 12:26

BATHROOMS AND KITCHENS

BATHROOMS

Stylish Bathrooms

MJP Home Creations

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

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

Creation Born Of Perfection

Specialists in kitchens bathrooms and wetrooms

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

01793 320773 07779 006360

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

BUILDING SERVICES

Paul Rhind Bathroom suites and kitchens fitted

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

J&R Carpentry Services

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

Free no obligation quotes

Kevin Cook Tel: 814833 or 07776 142981

ELECTRICIAN

DECORATOR DECORATOR INSIDE AND OUT

SAFE & SHAW

ELECTRICAL SERVICES

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

CARPENTRY

01793 321981 07775 840236

HOME MAINTENANCE Services

(Household Maintenance) Handyman

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

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

Please call Paul Eastham on 07769 883717

darrenbakerstewart@rocketmail.com www.stylishbathrooms.biz

CARPENTRY

DECORATOR

J S Property Services

PAINTING AND DECORATING

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

A CHANGE OF COLOUR Experienced in all aspects of interior and exterior 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

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

7 YEAR GUARANTEE

on Worcester Bosch Cdi, Ri and Si boilers until 30 June 2013

• All work guaranteed • No job too small

Accredited Installer

For further details call Richard on 01793 879156 or 07747 723606

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

203455

PLASTERING BSJ PLASTERING & DECORATING SERVICES All areas of Plastering, Decorating and Refurbishment undertaken • Ceilings and Walls Plastered • Coving • Rendering • Painting & Decorating - Internal & External • Complete Home Improvements undertaken • Free quotations

Please contact Brian Jones

For a free no obligation quote call Gary on

For a complete professional service contact:

Mobile: 07764 511933 or Tel: 01793 879069

Tel: 874480 Mobile: 07860 760364 30 years experienced tradesman

STEVE GEORGE

BATHROOMS

APPROVED

Mobile: 07976 572905 Home: 01793 725834

Professional, reliable and friendly service

42

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BLINDS

Plumbing

& Heating Brighten up your home for Winter with a rainbow of colours!

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

mjplumbing64@gmail.com

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

• Laminate flooring

• Doors & skirting

replacement

• Kitchen • Bathroom

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

Tel: 01793 434584

DECORATOR

INTERIOR H EXTERIOR WALLPAPERING H COVING H

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

Call Andy: 01793 729354

or 07900 835116

Call Stuart on 01793 727659 or 07809 368051

HEATING & PLUMBING

HEATING & PLUMBING Plumbing & Heating Services

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

30 years plumbing & heating experience British Gas trained

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

Alec McKay Tel: 01793 873697 Mobile: 07963 953439

E-mail: alecmckay@sky.com

215153

DECORATOR

DECORATOR

INTERIOR & EXTERIOR REDUCTIONS FOR OAPs

Call 01793 334823 or 07788 572043

email: trevorwyse@btinternet.com

www.trevorwyse.com

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

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

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

HOUSEMARTIN

GILES BROS

522404

Tel: 07976 885203 or 01793 723023

Est. 30 years

For all your heating & bathroom needs

Call Steve now on 07708 135420 or 01793 827372

High class painter & decorator with 35 years experience

Quality Plumbing & Heating

TILING

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

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

HOME MAINTENANCE

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

TREVOR WYSE

HEATING & PLUMBING

PLUMBING

The Roofing Specialist

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

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

FREE ESTIMATES H

4 4 4 4 4 4 4

Extensions Garage conversions Kitchens/bathrooms Wall & floor tiling and much more For a free quotation please contact Dave on: Mobile : 07778207977 dave.cheesley@ntlworld.com

r&

Approved Plumber

ALL YOUR NEEDS IN ONE NUMBER

the place for quality and value

ain te

01793 876600 07748 964433

Galaxy Construction Ltd

EP

Free estimates

D&A HOME IMPROVEMENTS

ID

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

BUILDING SERVICES

De cor ato r

❉ Quality bathroom suites

BUILDING SERVICES

PR

BATHROOMS

CERAMIC TILING FLOOR & WALL SPECIALISTS

Call Glen on: 01793 487450 07774 841879

email: grservices@hotmail.co.uk

www.grservicesswindon.co.uk

TILING

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

❇ ❇ ❇

Free Quotes Call Lee on 0771 8102 921

Call Neil on 01793 700542 07725 028776

Call Mike on 0778 8444 084 or 01793 520526

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

TEL: 01793 854149 MOB: 07919 255673

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ACCOUNTANCY

ACCOUNTANCY

CJD

ACCOUNTANCY LTD

Craig Dell FCCA

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

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

www.cjd-accountancy.co.uk

BOOK-KEEPING

CARPET CLEANING

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

Abacus Cleaning Services

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

Tel: 01793 700637 or 07963 637748

www.bookkeepingswindon.co.uk

CLEARANCE

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

AERIAL SERVICES

AERIAL SERVICES

aerials & satellite systems

Aerial Solutions

Chris Payne ✭ ✭ ✭ ✭

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

Tel: 01793 700078 Mobile: 07904 330724

• Does your picture freeze and break up?

• Would you like TV points in other rooms?

• Do you want Freesat or Sky installed?

Then contact your local VAT free aerial and satellite installers

01793 744957

50% off digital aerials

CARPET CLEANING

CARPET CLEANING

Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Swindon

The Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Specialist

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

Mobile: 07506 740921

www.abacuscleaningswindon.co.uk

www.procleancleaningservices.co.uk

COMPUTER SUPPORT

COMPUTER SUPPORT

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

• Quickly usable

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

GARAGE DOORS

Computer problems?

Let us help

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

Man & van service Can’t be beaten on price • House clearance • Rubbish removal • Sofas and furniture • Shed removal • Confidential waste

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

Tel: 01793 325685

www.absolute-rubbish.co.uk

LOCKSMITH KEY CUTTING KEY CUTTING KEY CUTTING

OVEN CLEANING

SWINDON OVEN CLEANING

The Domestic Oven Cleaning Service

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

Genuine 24hr service

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

KEY CUTTING KEY CUTTING KEY CUTTING

44

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To book your oven clean call Maggie on 01793 520362

We use caustic free cleaning products with a fresh solution every time Hobs, extractors and microwaves & minor repairs also undertaken

OVEN CLEANING Ovens, ranges, agas, hobs extractors and microwaves

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

01793 733822 or email:

oven@enlan.co.uk

Electrical Automation • Up & Over • Roller • Sectional • Repairs • Unit 2, River Ray Ind. Est., Barnfield Road, Swindon SN2 2DT

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

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

18/01/2013 12:27

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

HALE SKILLS • Washing Machines • Cookers

Guaranteed repairs to all makes of domestic appliances

• Dishwashers • Dryers • Vacuum Cleaners

Same day/next day service

Over 30 year’s experience

Call 07963 131429

Tel: 01793 469300

e.mail: haleskills@gmail.com

CLEANING

CLEANING

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

Around £26 for a 4 bed.

Weekly, fortnightly or monthly cleans.

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

Call 01793 875665 07780625244

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

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

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

Maxwell House, Maxwell Street, Swindon SN1 5DR

TECHNOLOGY SUPPORT

Although overall crime in West Swindon is still down year on year, a spate of 31 burglaries in December will have a negative impact on the clear up rates.

PC Tom Turner, right, told the West Swindon Forum that there are opportunist criminals wandering the streets trying doors on houses, sheds and cars. “Most of the thefts can be prevented if people would lock up their property.

“Car break-ins only take place if there is a laptop or phone on show, almost inviting a theft.

“All of us in the West Neighbourhood Police Team are appealing to residents to lock up their property. by banning individuals using a Leisure The criminals have been targetting Watch policy operated by traders.

Westlea and Grange Park, but they The police are also going to target could be down other streets too.” cannabis dealing from properties and The forum refocussed police priori- at village centres which is fuelling ties to target anti-social behaviour at burglaries..

Shaw Ridge Leisure Park after comNPT sergeant Peter Foster replaints of intimidation from visitors. ported the success of a pre-Christmas Poor behaviour at West Swindon operation to catch shop lifters at the Centre and Link Centre has reduced village centres.

Old Town residents take over social hall from council

Tel: (01793) 618499 or 513796 swindondoorservices@ btinternet.com

Pre-Christmas crime spree lesson to lock up

www.garagedoorsupplies.co.uk

WATER SOFTENERS

FACT: Hard water damages your home!

Contact us for expert advice about water softeners...

01793 520388

Water Softeners • Rental scheme Drinking Water Systems • Salt

Savernake Street Social Hall in Eastcott is being given a new lease of life after local residents and hall-users agreed to take on management from Swindon Council.

The next stage in formalising the agreement is a public meeting on Monday 18 February, 7.30pm, in the hall, to adopt a constitution and elect a management committee.

The hall, located between Pembroke Street and Savernake Street, is currently used by a preschool and a number of community and religious groups.

However it is an under used facility which the management steering group has plans to change. Following an open day in November they are confident it can become a vibrant, busy venue used by a wider cross section of the population. They plan to offer it for birthday parties, art and drama projects, fitness and dance, car boot sales, and groups for older people.

Anyone living in Eastcott and the surrounding area is invited to the meeting on 18 February. The steering group would like to hear from anyone interested in the practical day to day running of the hall, strategic planning or management. The more people get involved, the more can be achieved, for the good of the whole community. For details mail: eastcottcommunity@yahoo.co.uk or via www.facebook.com/SavernakeStreetSocialHall

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18/01/2013 12:28

rian ouse thes the hing uses onadist out s of odd eing

Celebrating 80 years of voluntary action in Swindon Swindon’s Voluntary Action Service marked big society community involvement by hundreds of local groups and charities and literally thousands of residents over eight decades on Friday 14 December.

First convened by Thomas Fessey as the Swindon Council of Social Services in December 1932, it was the town’s response to the great depression. In those austere days volunteers collected and distributed clothing and food, and even set up a pig farm to create jobs for the unemployed.

YOUR VHS VIDEO OR CAMCORDER TAPE TRANSFERRED TO DVD DISC

£15

Tel: 01793 705333

During the war, one of the many activities the CSS undertook was to run a tobacco relief fund for OAPs. The organisation has had a variety of names and has been responsible for setting up projects which led to the Marriage Guidance Council, Wiltshire and Swindon Law Centre, Swindon Carers Centre, the CAB, Dial-A-Ride and the Volunteer Bureau.

Unveiling a reproduction of Ken White’s long lost mural painted to mark the fiftieth anniversary of VAS, which now hangs in the reception at the VAS office, 1 John Street, Swindon.

From left, Mrs Sarah Rose Troughton, Lord Lieutenant of Wiltshire; Ken White; Justin Tomlinson MP; chair of Voluntary Action Swindon Trustees Mansoor Khan; VAS chief executive David Wray; Swindon Council chief executive Gavin Jones; the Mayor of Swindon Michael Bray and trustee Nazma Ramruttun. Photo: Richard Wintle www.calyxpix.com

TERRY WINTER

Space Master The wardrobe people

MONUMENTAL STONEMASON New memorials - Additional inscriptions Old memorials cleaned and renovated Free estimates • BRAMM accredited Over 25 years’ experience Tel: 01793 861035 or 07935 309644

LUXURY FITTED WARDROBES Made to measure • Floor to ceiling Free brochures • No obligation quote

01793 827188

email: terry.winter@hotmail.co.uk

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

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

Now, apart from support to individual organisations, VAS coordinates the charity trustees network, provides governance and funding advice, a UK online computer training facility, runs CRB checks on behalf of local groups, maintains a directory

of community organisations in the town which is published online, and keeps groups informed with a weekly e-mail newsletter.

See the full story at www.bit.ly/ vas80 www.vas-swindon.org

Being a volunteer could bring advantages in the job market

Find out how on a low-cost course offered by the Volunteer Centre

Volunteering has many benefits, such as improving job prospects and meeting new people, and it’s more important than ever to have a wide range of experiences on your CV, writes Sue Dunmore, manager of Volunteer Centre, Swindon In these times of increased competi- volunteering; tion for work, a situation not helped • Find out about volunteering opby the recent announcement of 800 portunities and how you can get job losses at Honda, getting involved involved. in volunteering is a good way for you We can either hold a course at our to stand out from the crowd and Volunteer Centre in John Street or develop your skills. come to you if you have a group of 8 If you are interested in volunteering or more interested in participating. but don’t know what it involves or If you are a volunteer involving orhow to go about it then why not come ganisation we can also run the course on our subsidised Introduction to for you as part of your volunteer Volunteering course to find out more? inductions.

The course will help you to: Dates and times of courses are flex• Understand the purpose and value ible. For details contact Louise Hallett of volunteering; or Carol Harrison on 01793 420557 • Understand and overcome any or mail: lou@swindonvolunteers. barriers; org.uk or carol@swindonvolunteers.

• Develop your skills for successful org.uk

West Swindon & The Lydiards Church Partnership Join us in worship on Sunday mornings Westlea Church, Westlea School: 10.00am St Mary’s Lydiard Tregoze the church in the park: 10.00am All Saints’ Lydiard Millicent the church in the village: 10.30am Holy Trinity, Shaw: 10.30am Toothill Church: 10.30am For details of these and our other services call the Partnership Office on 01793 874221 Email: partnershipoffice@beopenworld.com Website: www.wswinlyd.org.uk

Anglican • Baptist • Methodist • United Reformed Church

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Bringing community action history together Stepping Forward, a new Heritage Lottery Fund supported project is set to trace and capture the unique story of Swindon’s strong tradition of community action. And on 4 February Voluntary Action Swindon is inviting people to come along to the first of a series of coffee mornings to share experiences, memories and photos to build up the archive.

Explaining the motivation for the crease in population from the 1840s. project, Swindon-based historian and With the cutbacks perhaps Swindon social researcher Martha Parry said: people have to reconsider what it takes “Everybody talks about how we have to build a community.” a great tradition of community action The aim is to collate as much inforhere, so we wanted to prove it. There’s mation as possible from residents in has been more social history written person and online. The results will be about Swindon than possibly any displayed online and in a commemoother English town, but little about rative 64 page book. its community action.

To get involved contact Shaz Qad“Our town has a very long and dus at Voluntary Action Swindon proud record of people ‘doing things on 01793 538398 or mail: info@ for themselves,’ since the rapid in- vas-swindon.org

Hong in

Oriental BUFFET RESTAURANT

se New Yea e n i Ch elebration r C

Ideas wanted to make MS therapy centre’s 30th year a memorable one Thirty years is a really long time for a charity to survive - especially if it has managed to grow without any state funding. And with cutbacks ripping through the voluntary sector, the Swindon Therapy Centre for Multiple Sclerosis on the Westmead estate in Westlea is experienced in offering much needed services whilst being focussed on the future.

Nevertheless raising money from charitable and business sources is now more difficult as lots of charities are pressing for support, which is why the MS Therapy Centre is asking readers for ideas to help them celebrate three decades during 2013.

“Thirty years providing support to people with MS in the Swindon David & Jackie Wray with Laura Wilson, centre, holdarea is a huge milestone ing the Queens Award to Voluntary Organisations for us and we really want Photo: Richard Wintle www.calyxpix.com to shout about it,” said Jackie Wray, the growth of the physio department manager of the therapy centre which has been a tremendous success and last year received the Queen’s Award we’re expanding our counselling serfor Voluntary Organisations. “We vice. We want to continue to offer this started from very humble beginnings to users at a reasonable price which and have grown in response to the means generating income.

“Every little bit of fundraising need to provide relief to people with multiple-sclerosis and other neuro- will help. For example, what about logical conditions. We currently have raising £30 for our thirtieth year; over 300 members, 60 volunteers who think about organising a sponsored assist in the running of the centre, and event; you could put a collecting box in your workplace or school. Or you offer more therapies than ever.

“Most of our members benefit from could come up with a brand new idea ‘diving sessions’ in our oxygen tank, to help us. Give me a call on 01793 as receiving oxygen under pressure 481700 or mail: fundraising@mssignificantly relieves their condition. swindon.org.uk” 10k runners wanted And this is complemented by exercise and stretching sessions, physio- The MS therapy centre has six places therapy, massage and reflexology to for runners willing to commit to raise £500 each to run the British 10k in make life easier.”

Community fundraiser Laura Wil- London on Sunday 14 July. Call Laura son welcomes any kind of assistance. for details. www.msswindon.org.uk “Since we moved to our new building

Featuring

Lion Dance Show 12 - 6pm, 10th-Feb (Sunday)

Free

dinnerher vouc

for a booking with 4 or more adults on 10th-Feb. Booking line:

Pepperbox Hill, Peatmoor, Swindon, SN5 5EZ

01793 877888

Opening Times & Prices Lunch : Monday - Saturday 12noon - 3.00pm A£6.50

C£3.50

Dinner : Monday - Thursday 5.00pm - 10.30pm A£11.50 C£6.50 Friday - Saturday 5.00pm - 11.00pm A£12.50 C£6.50 All day : Sunday & Bank Holidays 12noon - 10.30pm A£11.50 C£6.50 Take Away Box :

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Other Information:

* A = Adult

C = Children under

1.5m / 4’11” Under 2 Years: FREE. * Minimum charge: £3.

The Management reserves the right to make changes without prior notice.

www.hongxin.co.uk swindonlink.com • February 2013 47

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